An interesting departure for Michael Connelly to put two lead characters together in one novel, although we have previously seen references to characters from other books in passing or in subsidiary roles. In this book we again meet Renee Ballard, who was introduced recently in 'The Late Show'. Renee is an accomplished detective who found herself the subject of unwanted sexual advances from a senior colleague and was subsequently deployed to the unpopular overnight detective shift for making a formal complaint. But this time Renee meets Harry Bosch and forms an interesting, if unofficial, partnership. Connelly fans expecting a high quality crime novel will not be disappointed. The writing is highly evocative and always fast-paced. There is certainly potential in this partnership for further development and I look forward to more Ballard/Bosch outings. Very highly recommended!

Bosch is back and at his best. Although semi retired still gets involved and manages to solve murders from the past in his usual unorthodox ways. Looking forward to more involving Ballard and Bosch, an exciting partnership.

This book is rip-roaring, giving credence to the ethos of team work and unity in this individualistic period of self. Bosch is a trusted protagonist but in his (new) partner Ballard, you have somebody who is the equal of Bosch's experience - it shows her doing the leg work whilst trying to ultimately solve the big case at the heart of the plot.

Winning dialogue and perfectly rounded characters who feature in cameos on occasion give scope to this LA set crime drama. Having never read a Connelly/Bosch novel before, this reader will seek out more in the future.

Amazing!

I love the first book in this series and I got such a pleasant surprise with this second book. The story is really well written, as can be expected by Michael Connelly.

I would recommend this book to anyone who loves good crime novels.