The Closers: Harry Bosch Series, Book 11

THE CLOSERS is the best yet from Michael Connelly, which makes it the best of the best. I realize that mere superlatives don't make for a very "helpful" review, but what can I say? Each entry in the series of mysteries featuring Harry Bosch is better than the last -- and it started out pretty strong (with THE BLACK ECHO, 1992). If you liked CITY OF BONES and LOST LIGHT, then you'll like THE CLOSERS.

This listen was completely enjoyable. Narration by Len Cariou was perfect. This is my first Michael Connelly novel and consequently my first detective Harry Bosch story. The writing is excellent - great plot, nice twists and turns, great characters. I thought I needed a lot more action (violence?) to hold my attention and maintain suspense. Connelly has proven that that is not necessary. Good suspense does not mandate a lot of shooting, car chases and staccato dialogue. Just good writing.

This is the first book I've read (or listened to) by Michael Connelly. I loved it for the following reasons. First, regarding the plot and characters, Connelly writes with absolute clarity. This is a rare quality in novels (and movies) nowadays. Second, Connelly conveys a wonderful sense of verisimilitude. If a police investigation is not run exactly as described in "The Closers" (including the unintentional mistakes and political coverups), I'm not sure why not. Third, the characters are all sympathetic, but Bosch (I hope I'm spelling this right) is a standout as a completely developed human being - fallible, guilt-ridden, and utterly heroic. Finally, the narrator seemed just right for Bosch's voice. (Note to publisher: please, no music. Let the story stand on its own.)

I did not like the end of this book. I read it all the way thinking that surely, something would happen. It never did, and that is the one thing that sperates this H.B. novel from the others.

I am glad I read it. Any novel by M.C. is better than no novel by him. He is a complete writer and this book stands alone.

It is just that... well, if anyone else had written this, it would be just great. But with M.C. you expect more. Where was the tension? Where was the stress? Where was that 'what Harry does' going to make a difference? How does the interplay between him and the new Chief make us care what happens? And at the final scene, why didn't M.C. do his usual series of visions behind a sanded glass wall? It was all too apparent.

And for the first time, when the book was finished, I didn't care what's going to happen to Harry next. Sorry.

A good book if you like murder mysteries, but be advised that most of the story is interviewing witnesses, searching for clues, and developing theories. There is almost no action. Think of it as a mental exercise in "Who Done It?" I prefer the previous wilder and crazier Harry. For example, I enjoyed "The Narrows" and "City of Bones" more. "The Closers" was interesting, but a little dull at times.

Connolly's Bosch series offers everything I appreciate in a series: Excellent writing, interesting stories, and, above all returning characters that never grow stale as the series evolves. No cardboard cutouts here.

Have followed and read Connolly for years. I love audiobooks so decided to purchase The Narrows which somehow I missed over the years. I am thrilled by the overall production of this audio presentation from Len Cariou's performance to the jazz notes between scenes/chapters. Unlike some other books I've listened to which simply sound like someone turned on a record button while reading a book aloud, I believe everyone involved in this production worked to create a work of art. Thank you.

Enjoyed the quality of the writing by a genuine first class author, read excellently. We were captivated by the plot. However we were upset by the profane language used at times in the novel.

I bought the book based on the reviews. The book was good, but did not live up to the hype. The best part was observing Bosch uncover minute details that others missed. The plot was so-so. The author takes you down a few very different avenues on the way, and the ending is much less interesting that those.... I wish he followed it through.

I have listened to all of the Michael Connelly stories thus far and this one is by far my favorite. The author gives just enough clues to keep the reader enticed. I couldn't stop listening. The narrator does an excellent job of keeping up with voices and he is easy to listen to. Great choice for a listen.

This was the first Michael Connelly book I have ever listened to, and I was not very impressed. I felt that it was a great look at an average cop going through the basics of an investigation. There were very few creative twists in the case and the lead character did not impress me with any keen insights. My real gripe about the story is that this case has been unsolved for seventeen years and two cops get on the job and close it in under a week?just a little unbelievable. I found the narrator spot on for some characters and just awful for others. I have been listening to audiobooks for over ten years and just was not impressed.