Author Michael Connelly presents an intriguing premise: what if retired FBI profiler Terry McCaleb (from "Blood Work") were coaxed into working one more case - and his analysis led him to suspect LAPD detective Harry Bosch (from "Black Echo" and others) to be a murderer? Having both of these complex characters working interlocking cases in an atmosphere of increasing suspicion could make for a great book, but unfortunately here the whole is less than the sum of its parts. The author relies on the readers recollection of previous books in the series rather than develop the characters, especially Bosch, in this book. The story is told mostly from McCalebs perspective, though several chapters are devoted to Bosch as he prepares to testify in a trial happening at the same time as McCalebs investigation. The relevance of the trial becomes clear in time, but it is too bad that a character as interesting as Bosch is given so little to do in this story.
As the plot threads begin to come together, the suspense increases and there are some interesting twists toward the end. All in all this was an enjoyable and quick read, but not up to Connellys usual high standard.
It is always a difficult thing to do - to bring 2 of your major characters together in a novel. Connelly pulls it off with a flourish. What makes Connelly tick?
He does not write poetic paragraphs but his writing is crisp and clear.
His characterisation is brilliant. There are no always do-good, super-American heroes in his books
His plotting is almost always brilliant with just about enough twists and turns. I go crazy with plots that twist and turn like a hairpin bend road - it just seems so contrived. This plot would have been perfect except for the last bit with Harry and Terry
There is always a problem with great writers running out of steam - Connelly seems to have not lost it so far (Looks like Narrows passed the test)
The Owl, Paintings and title add to the psyche of the setting
There is something about novels set in LA that has a great feel (like a Western) - from Chandler, McDonald and Connelly continues that tradition with aplomb
Michael Connelly is without doubt the best crime fiction writer alive today.
What more you have in store for us?
Connelly Continues to Crank Em Out
Less than the sum of its parts?