Little Boy Blue – Helen Grace Series #5

Author: M.J. Arlidge
Genre: Thriller, Crime Fiction
377 pages
Publisher: Penguin Random House, 2016

Synopsis
Little Boy Blue by M.J. Arlidge is the 5th novel in the DI Helen Grace series. Called to a Southampton nightclub, Detective Inspector Helen Grace cuts the duct tape from the asphyxiated victim and discovers she knows him.

A man from the double life she has concealed from her superiors, Grace is determined to find his murderer – while keeping their relationship hidden at all costs.

When a new victim is found, Grace works around the clock to stop her life unravelling. She’ll do anything to solve this case – but dare she reveal her own darkest secrets and lose everything?

Don’t miss this fast-paced book in this consistently entertaining crime thriller series!

My review
Little Boy Blue by M.J. Arlidge is a gripping and intense addition to the DI Helen Grace series. The story is dark and twisted, with a killer who seems to be one step ahead of the police at every turn. Arlidge does an excellent job of building tension throughout the novel, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the body count rises and the stakes become higher.

Arlidge has crafted a standout character in crime fiction, with Grace remaining a captivating protagonist—flawed yet resolute. Her dynamic with her team enriches the narrative, adding layers to the story. Grace’s internal conflict escalates dramatically when she becomes personally entwined in the investigation, forcing her to confront her deepest secrets. Having read the previous books in the series, I feel acquainted enough with Grace’s character to empathize with her and understand her moral dilemma.

As typical with M.J. Arlidge’s writing style, the chapters are short and keep the story moving at breakneck speed, quickly drawing me into the intricate storyline and dark and twisted world. After the first chapter, I knew I was in for a wild ride and Little Boy Blue didn’t disappoint. I was completely shocked by the ending, and though it was brilliant, I’m not sure I like being left on such an emotional cliffhanger!

My recommendation: read it!