The Innocent Angels by Alison Belsham

*** Review ***

When it comes to the realm of crime fiction, the plot often serves as the backbone, but it’s the characters that breathe life into the story. In The Innocent Angels by Alison Belsham, the author masterfully crafts a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of a vineyard, giving Detective Lexi Bennett another daunting case to solve. As a fan of this series, I was excited to dive into the third installment and see how Lexi’s character had evolved. From the first page to the shocking reveal at the end, Belsham’s storytelling prowess left me hooked and on the edge of my seat.

In this latest installment, Detective Lexi Bennett is summoned to a gruesome scene beneath Elvington vineyard, where a young woman lies dead, her body adorned with angel wings. Her baby, crying inconsolably nearby, adds to the chilling atmosphere. The burning question is whether this is a case of murder or suicide. As Lexi delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a complex web of suspects, motives, and secrets, forcing her and her dedicated team to work relentlessly in pursuit of the truth.

One of the remarkable aspects of this series is the character development. Lexi Bennett doesn’t give up on her cases, and her unwavering determination to seek justice makes her a compelling protagonist. Her tenacity, resilience, and willingness to ask for help when needed make her a character readers can connect with and root for.

Belsham’s writing style is engaging, striking the right balance between providing enough detail to enrich the narrative and maintaining a swift pace that keeps the story moving forward. It’s the mark of a skilled author who knows how to keep readers invested in the plot without drowning them in superfluous information.

The heart of the story lies in the multitude of suspects. The author masterfully weaves a tapestry of individuals, each harboring secrets and lies. This rich character pool keeps readers guessing until the very end, making The Innocent Angels a true page-turner. Lexi’s relentless pursuit of the truth reveals layers of deception, and the author crafts an intricate puzzle that challenges both the detective and the reader.

The true brilliance of this novel lies in the unpredictable nature of the case. The murders are committed with such precision and clear planning that the killer’s meticulous notes and emotions become an integral part of the investigation. Belsham keeps the suspense alive throughout, making it nearly impossible to guess the identity of the murderer. I can honestly say I was left stunned when the truth was finally unveiled.

Elvington Vineyard serves as a captivating backdrop, complete with a cast of quirky characters whose tangled relationships add depth to the narrative. Belsham’s ability to create a vivid, atmospheric setting adds a layer of authenticity to the story. The vineyard’s presence and the intricacies of the characters’ lives make for a rich and immersive reading experience.

The book delivers a clever, suspenseful, and engaging story with twists that left my jaw gaping. As a reader, I appreciate the meticulous crafting of the complex case and the relentless pursuit of justice by Lexi and her team. It’s a reminder that in the world of crime fiction, the journey is just as important as the destination, and this journey is one I thoroughly enjoyed.

In conclusion, The Innocent Angels is a must-read for fans of Angela Marsons, Karin Slaughter, and Val McDermid. With its intricate plot, well-drawn characters, and a chilling, suspenseful atmosphere, it keeps you hooked from the first page to the final shocking reveal. Alison Belsham continues to shine in the genre of crime fiction, and I eagerly anticipate what she has in store for Detective Lexi Bennett in the future.