The Dark Angel

Ruth Galloway has been invited to investigate some mysterious bones in Italy by a renowned Italian archaeologist, Angelo Morelli.  It is perfect timing for her to get away for a bit of a holiday with her daughter, Kate.

When Ruth arrives in Italy, Morelli explains his dilemma; the skeleton had been found intact, but when Morelli was about to unveil it, his phone rang.  Moments later another phone rang, this time the phone was found buried in the skeleton’s hand!

Morelli admits to Ruth that Italians don’t want to find another Roman burial; they have enough of them.  He then shockingly tells her that he thinks someone is trying to kill him.

The following Sunday, Ruth is with the mother of Morelli when they discover the local priest in the church.  He has been murdered.  Ruth mentions to the local police chief an odd thing about the death, which is similar to what was discovered with the skeleton.  It is the following day when DCI Nelson shows up.  He has come because of his concern for Ruth and Kate following an earthquake in Italy.

It is Nelson’s suggestion to the local chief of police that allows the prime suspect for the murder of the priest to go free.  So then, who could the killer be?

Elly Griffith’s novel has a very exciting conclusion with some surprises in store for the reader.  Although the setting up of the conclusion is slowly building anticipation, the final chapters are hard hitting.  A thoroughly enjoyable read.