I feel like I'm being paid to lose my mind: NIGHTSHADE.

Nightshade: A Novel by Michael Connelly
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It is strange to read a Connelly book that doesn't star Bosch, Haller, or Ballard, I won't lie.

It takes a few minutes to get used to our new character, Sgt. Stilwell, a law enforcement officer who has been exiled to Catalina Island based on his past behavior. Stilwell has oversight of the island, but that's about it. When a body is found dead in the water, tied down by an anchor, he's forced to call in his old rivals from the mainland to help investigate the case. They show about the same dedication and enthusiasm as when Stilwell worked with them, however, and he finds himself investigating on the side. Who is this woman found in the water with a streak of purple dye in her hair?

As with most Connelly books, he deftly weaves together intersecting mysteries and threads, including issues with a gangster on the island. Stilwell also has a girlfriend on island, who helps oversee boats arriving at the docks.

So far, Stilwell isn't as personable to me as Bosch or Haller, but he certainly grows on you as the story picks up momentum. He has a Connelly character's usual desire for justice--no matter the cost--and is easy to root for. I will say this story is very nautical--lots of water, lots of boats, lots of sailing references, so be prepared for that.

View all my reviews