Crime writing at its Best
It’s time to highlight another of my favorite authors, Michael Connelly. Connelly had worked for three years as a crime reporter for the Los Angeles Times when he began writing his first novel to feature detective Harry Bosch. Today he has 21 novels available, with the 22nd, 9 Dragons, being released on audiobook next week.
Michael Connelly’s name is a familiar sight on bestseller lists. He has won several major honors, including the Edgar Award, Shamus Award, Anthony Award, and several more mystery awards worldwide.
Connelly’s most popular series features homicide detective Hieronymus (Harry) Bosch, named after the Dutch artist of the same name. His personal history includes abandonment, murder, and the military. Bosch is an extremely tenacious and skilled detective.
Audio Book Author Michael Connelly
His other series features lawyer Mickey Haller, a lawyer who specializes in criminal defense. He works out of his Lincoln Town Car, which is referenced in the first book of the series, The Lincoln Lawyer.
Connelly’s five stand-alone novels as well as the two series have cameo crossover appearances by familiar characters. All of the novels are mysteries and every one of them is an intriguing and entertaining read.
Start with The Black Echo (narrated by Dick Hill), Connelly’s first Harry Bosch novel. In it, Bosch is investigating the death of a man he served with in the Vietnam War. He pairs with FBI detective Eleanor Wish when the case seems to point to a larger bank robbery plot. This is a great introduction to many of Connelly’s characters.
Not looking to commit to a series? Try Blood Work (read by Dick Hill). Terry McCaleb is an ex-FBI agent who is trying to enjoy his post-heart transplant retirement until he finds out that the donor of the heart did not die in an accident. She was murdered. This revelation leads McCaleb to begin investigating the mysterious circumstances of the donor’s death. Blood Work was made into a movie starring and directed by Clint Eastwood.
If you enjoy criminal investigation novels, give Michael Connelly a try. And watch for his latest, Nine Dragons, on my list of new releases next week!
By Dorothy Distefano
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Connelly is definitely one of the best in the genre, right up there with Elmore Leonard, Nelson DeMille and James Lee Burke, in my estimation.
Don’t forget John Sandford!