Harry Bosch is back in the second installment -- still an outsider even among his piers, still hardened and flawed, still bright and strong. I like Harry very much. And, like him, I hate politics, which is exactly why this book only merited three stars. I didn't like the plot of this book. I didn't like the internal politics of Harry's department which played such a big part in the story. It was, for me, boring rather than intriguing. Harry being Harry is what saves the book. He is a character who I am looking forward to learning more about, a man I am looking forward to knowing better. And for that reason I am sticking with this series.

Dick Hill is superb. There is nothing else to say, except Bravo Dick. You continue to be the best.

Harry has made few mistakes in his work, and makes even fewer friends. The Black Ice is that slick surface that will kill him if he's not careful, but then again Bosch never seems to be too careful.
Great story, superb narration, and Michael Connelly again weaves us through the story of a gritty detective that does not stop at anything until he finds the answers he needs to solve several related homicides. Throw in a couple of beautiful intriguing women, corrupt cops, the DEA, and a drug cartel, you have the making of a story that you cannot stop listening to.

Prior to my last read, which just happened to be the first in the Michael Connelly Harry Bosch series I had not previously read a Bosch story. Now here we are at book 2, The Black Ice. I had seen a test pilot program on Amazon Instant Video proposing to serialize the Bosch genre and thought the man (Bosch) has some infirmities akin to my frailties. Could a mere detective series give me a platform of reading that would provide me with introspective? Connelly does not just write cliffhanger stories, but puts true human emotions to work in developing his plots and narratives. So yes, Bosch in The Black Ice provides more than just the simple pleasures of reading. It provides an opportunity for solipsism.

In the immediate story, The Black Ice, Connelly, takes Bosch into three or four different story plots all dovetailing throughout the novel; but keeps the reader on top of all the subplots and all in all makes for an acceptable story line. Of course, we still get the Bosch sexual escapades and an introduction into saxophone jazz. What more can one want from a pleasure listen?

Just plain fun. Not a lot of substance, but very captivating and well-written.

I went right on to the next in the series, which is just as good. I'm also listening to the Lincoln Lawyer series which ties in later in the chronology of the Bosch universe. I'm very happy with Connelly's storytelling.

I always enjoy following Harry Bosch around on his insightful wild card adventures, but this time he strikes me as the only interesting character, surrounded by a bunch of deadbeats. He doesnt quite manage to make up for the lack of interest inspired by the rest. Perhaps because its one of the earlier books in the series. This book's not a keeper.

The story is a bit farfetched (too complex for reality) but the pace is good if you can suspend disbelief it's a worthwhile listen.

I would recommend any of the Harry Bosch series to my friends. Harry is not a likeable guy but you end up liking him.

I so wanted to know who was doing all the kills but I had a hunch. Of course, I was wrong.

I like him

Absolutely worth my time. I got to understand Harry better after knowing where he came from.

Well, I'm very glad I continued with this series. This book is much much better than the first one. There are no silly politics, and very little complaining about the past... Harry just does what he needs to do, even though it is clear he is carrying a lot of baggage around with him.

The characters' behaviors make sense. The plot makes sense. Harry makes sense. All in all a very satisfying police procedural (even though some of the procedures might be outside the lines). And I'm definitely on to the next in the series.

The narration is very good, and sounds just like what you'd expect Harry to sound like. The story has some references to events in the earlier book, but stands completely alone and is wrapped up nicely in the end so you're not left hanging.

I've said it before, so I won't belabor. . . Connelly's crime tales are superb and Dick Hill's narration only makes them better. Black Ice was really, really good! If you like detective stories, you'll like this one. I'm heading down the slippery slope of buying all of Connelly's novels! Hooked!

This is a sit on the edge of the seat, turn up the volumn, and drive around the city one more time story. five stars is all that is allowed - but it is a six.