Sunday, October 5, 2025

The Overlook by Michael Connelly

Harry Bosch #13. This almost felt like a Bosch "novella". Even with an extra chapter added at some point, the book was only 262 pages long, which is not typical for Michael Connelly. Harry has changed jobs again. Now he is part of the Homicide Special Squad and his supervisor is Larry Gandle. If a murder happens that potentially has connections to politics, celebrity or the media, the case is usually handed to Homicide Special. Harry also has a new partner, Ignacio Ferras. "Iggy" is young and isn't exactly thrilled with the way that Harry does things. Iggy would actually like to keep his job! Go figure.

This case involves the execution of a doctor (Stanley Kent) and radioactive material that puts humans at risk of death if they are exposed to it. Since it's a matter of national security, the FBI are also involved. This brings Harry back in Rachel's environment. Despite this "perk", Harry never works well with the FBI. He wants to focus on catching the murderer (and hides a key witness from the FBI, which obviously doesn't sit well with them), and the FBI is focused on recovering the radioactive material. Both are admirable goals. Harry just doesn't trust the FBI and he hates being shut out of his own case. So he acts accordingly, and predictably - for him.

As all parties follow their individual investigations, based on knowledge they each have - and knowledge they don't have but are seeking because it's being kept from them - they each reach their own conclusions about the events that happened and why. Harry actually gets to the truth first (big surprise, ha!) It's an ending that I didn't suspect. And Harry manages to convince Rachel to ride along with him as he connects the final pieces of the puzzle, which is an accomplishment in and of itself! I do like Rachel better than his past loves, so I wouldn't be opposed to her returning to his life. ;)

Wendy's Rating: ****

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