Ep 2. For the Grace of God

For the Grace of God is the second episode of the twelfth season of the popular British crime drama TV series Vera. The episode starts with DCI Vera Stanhope, played brilliantly by Brenda Blethyn, investigating the murder of a promising young man, who was found dead in a river just outside his hometown. Vera and her team, tasked to find the killer of the man, struggle to find any motive for the murder, despite the victim's popularity among his peers and family.

The episode is set against the backdrop of the breathtaking Northumberland countryside, which offers a respite to the otherwise grim murder investigation, where an extremely disciplined Vera and her team pursue every lead with precision and meticulousness. As the investigation progresses, Vera's persistence and her uncanny ability to connect the dots take center stage as she delves deeper into the family's history and relationships in search of the killer.

Adding an exciting layer to the investigation is the deceased's father's mysterious past, which Vera uncovers as a result of her investigations. The episode explores the complex web of relationships in the local community and how they might have contributed to the killing, which Vera needs to crack open if she wants to solve the case.

As discussions with key suspects begin to provide clear indications of a possible motive, the investigation leads Vera and her team from the victim's hometown to the coastal towns of Northumberland, with well-placed opposition from those wanting to keep the events of the past buried. However, as always, Vera persists in solving the mystery, fighting extensively for any evidence that could prove the killer's guilt beyond any reasonable doubt.

The episode features an impressive array of supporting characters, each performing their roles with flourish. These include the victim's family members, who are understandably shaken and grief-stricken by the circumstances of the murder, as well as potential suspects and several community members that are known to be close to the family.

The cinematography of For the Grace of God is worth the praise, providing glimpses into the natural beauty of Northumberland, which is undoubtedly the perfect backdrop for this drama. The remarkable performances of the lead actors Brenda Blethyn and Kenny Doughty, who plays Vera's second in command Aiden Healy, bring the characters to life brilliantly, making every scene gripping, intense and engaging. The episode is well-written, with a well-crafted plot full of surprises and a satisfying resolution that wraps everything up in a neat bow.

In conclusion, For the Grace of God is a delightful episode, an enthralling addition to the series that promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The investigation will keep you guessing who the killer is and why they committed the crime. The episode has everything that makes the series a fan favorite, and it does not disappoint as it delivers another intriguing murder case to unravel. Fans of the series and newcomers alike are sure to find this episode enjoyable and entertaining.