The “Harry Bosch” series by Michael Connelly is a popular set of detective novels that have gained a large readership due to their detailed plots and strong character development. The series focuses on Hieronymus “Harry” Bosch, a detective in the Los Angeles Police Department, who is dedicated to solving crimes and seeking justice. Each book provides insights into Bosch’s professional challenges and personal life. If you’re curious about the reading order, this article has got you covered, listing all the books in sequence.
Harry Bosch Books in Order
- The Black Echo (1992)
- The Black Ice (1993)
- The Concrete Blonde (1994)
- The Last Coyote (1995)
- Trunk Music (1997)
- Angels Flight (1999)
- A Darkness More Than Night (2001)
- City Of Bones (2002)
- Lost Light (2003)
- The Narrows (2004)
- The Closers (2005)
- Echo Park (2006)
- The Overlook (2007)
- Nine Dragons (2009)
- Blue on Black (2016)
- Suicide Run (2011)
- Angle of Investigation (2011)
- The Drop (2011)
- The Black Box (2012)
- Switchblade (2014)
- The Burning Room (2014)
- The Crossing (2015)
- The Wrong Side Of Goodbye (2016)
- Two Kinds Of Truth (2017)
- Dark Sacred Night (2018)
- The Night Fire (2019)
- The Dark Hours (2021)
- Desert Star (2022)
Hieronymus Bosch: A Mysterious Profile (2022)
Similar Authors
- “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson – A gripping crime thriller that delves into the dark secrets of a wealthy family.
- “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn – A psychological suspense novel that explores the complexities of a troubled marriage and a mysterious disappearance.
- “Step on a Crack” by James Patterson – The story follows Detective Michael Bennett as he faces a major crisis: the sudden death of his wife and the kidnapping of several high-profile individuals at a state funeral at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. See also: Michael Bennett Series in Order.
See also: James Patterson’s NYPD Red Series in Order.
Most Recommended Books
- The Last Coyote (4.25 Goodreads score)
- The Concrete Blonde (4.20 Goodreads score)
- Echo Park (4.16 Goodreads score)
- The Black Echo (4.12 Goodreads score)
- The Black Ice (4.11 Goodreads score)
Awards
Michael Connelly received the Mystery Writers of America Edgar Award for Best First Novel in 1992 for The Black Echo, won the World’s Most Lucrative Crime Fiction Award in 2012 for The Black Box, received the Diamond Dagger from the CWA in 2018, received the Outstanding Contribution To Crime Writing Award at the 2022 Theakston’s Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate, England, and received the Grand Master title from the Mystery Writers of America in 2023.
Upcoming Releases
The upcoming book in The Lincoln Lawyer Series featuring Mickey Haller and Harry Bosch is titled “Resurrection Walk,” and it is scheduled for release on November 7, 2023.
Book Summaries
The Black Echo
"The Black Echo" is a gripping crime novel featuring LAPD detective Harry Bosch. Bosch, a loner who works the night shift, receives a call about a body found in a drainage tunnel in Hollywood. Initially believed to be a drug overdose, Bosch becomes suspicious when he notices a new puncture wound among the old scars. To his shock, he recognizes the victim as Billy Meadows, a former comrade from his time as a soldier in Vietnam. Feeling guilty for failing Meadows in the past, Bosch is determined to find the killer and bring them to justice.
The Black Ice
"The Black Ice" is a gripping crime novel that follows LAPD detective Harry Bosch as he investigates the suspicious death of a fellow officer. When a body is discovered in a hotel room, it is believed to be a narcotics detective who may have been involved in selling a dangerous new drug called Black Ice. Despite the LAPD ruling it a suicide, Bosch is skeptical and begins his own investigation. As he delves deeper, he uncovers strange clues and hidden truths that take him on a thrilling journey across borders, exposing police corruption and dangerous secrets. Along the way, Bosch must navigate his growing attraction to the detective's widow.
The Concrete Blonde
"The Concrete Blonde" is a gripping crime novel featuring LAPD detective Harry Bosch. After Bosch shoots and kills the notorious serial killer known as the 'Dollmaker', the police believe the case is closed. However, four years later, the widow of the Dollmaker accuses Bosch of killing the wrong man and takes him to court. To make matters worse, Bosch receives a disturbing note resembling those from the Dollmaker, leading him to a potential crime scene. Now, Bosch must determine if the Dollmaker is still alive or if a dangerous imitator is trying to ruin his career by recreating the killer's gruesome crimes.
The Last Coyote
"The Last Coyote" tells the story of LAPD detective Harry Bosch, who is facing a string of unfortunate events. After losing his home in an earthquake, his girlfriend leaving him, and being suspended for attacking his superior, Bosch finds himself with plenty of free time. In an attempt to occupy himself, he delves into an old murder case from 1961 involving his own mother, Marjorie Phillips Lowe. As Bosch investigates further, he uncovers a series of hidden secrets and cover-ups that reach all the way to the influential figures residing in the Hollywood Hills.
Trunk Music
In "Trunk Music" Harry Bosch returns to the LAPD in the Homicide division after being on leave. His first case proves to be quite challenging. In the hills near the Hollywood Bowl, Bosch discovers a dead body in the trunk of a white Rolls-Royce. It appears to be a typical Mafia-style execution known as Trunk Music, where the victim is shot in their own car. However, the victim is Tony Aliso, a movie producer from LA, and it becomes clear that the mob is not the only group after him. Bosch finds himself facing off against the FBI and reconnecting with a beautiful ex-convict. As the case unfolds, it becomes increasingly dangerous, and it seems like this might be Bosch's final case in Homicide.
Angels Flight
In "Angels Flight" Harry Bosch is once again tasked with a difficult case that nobody else wants to handle. This time, he must solve the murder of prominent lawyer Howard Elias, who was about to expose the truth behind a rape and murder case. Elias aimed to not only find the real killer but also expose the racist police officers who mistreated his client. As Bosch investigates, he must confront the suspicion and animosity within his own police department.
A Darkness More Than Night
"A Darkness More Than Night" tells the story of Terry McCaleb, a former FBI profiler who now lives a quiet life on Catalina Island. When a small-time criminal is found dead, McCaleb gets involved in a troubling case that brings him face to face with the notorious detective Harry Bosch. As McCaleb delves deeper into the investigation, he wonders if Bosch has crossed the line between good and evil in his pursuit of justice.
City Of Bones
In "City of Bones" Harry Bosch, a detective, becomes involved in a case when the bones of a young boy are discovered in the Hollywood Hills. As he investigates, memories from his own troubled past resurface. Determined to give the boy a voice, Bosch uncovers the child's identity and pieces together his tragic life. Along the way, he also begins a new romantic relationship with a fellow police officer. However, a failed mission puts Bosch in even deeper trouble. The investigation reaches a surprising climax, leaving Bosch faced with a difficult choice.
Lost Light
Lost Light is a crime novel about a former LAPD detective named Bosch who takes on a case involving the murder of a production assistant during a movie set robbery. The stolen money is believed to have been used for a terrorist training camp, but Bosch believes there is more to the story. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he faces opposition from his former colleagues and the FBI. Along the way, Bosch reconnects with an old friend, leading to a haunting confrontation with his own past.
The Narrows
"The Narrows" follows former FBI agent Rachel Walling and private investigator Harry Bosch. Rachel receives a call after four years, informing her that The Poet, a dangerous killer, is back and has a special surprise for her. Meanwhile, Harry is adjusting to life in Las Vegas when he receives a call from the widow of a friend who worked on The Poet case. As Harry investigates his friend's suspicious death, he finds himself on a collision course with the most cunning and ruthless murderer he has ever faced.
The Closers
In "The Closers" Harry is reunited with his former partner Kizmin Rider as they join the LAPD's Open-Unsolved Unit. Assigned to a politically sensitive case, they must investigate the connection between a white supremacist and the murder of a mixed race girl in 1988. As they navigate the changes within the police department, they also have to contend with Harry's nemesis, Irving, who is seeking revenge and hoping for Harry to slip up.
Echo Park
"Echo Park" follows Homicide Detective Harry Bosch as he revisits a haunting case from 1993. Marie Gesto, a missing person, was never found and the unsolved case has plagued Bosch for years. Thirteen years later, Bosch is back on the case when a man accused of multiple murders offers to confess to other crimes, including Gesto's. As Bosch investigates, he realizes that he and his partner overlooked a crucial clue that could have stopped the serial killer.
The Overlook
"The Overlook" is set in Los Angeles. When a physicist is found murdered at a popular viewpoint, Detective Harry Bosch is tasked with solving the case. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he discovers that the victim had handed over a dangerous chemical to the killer before his death. With the help of Homeland Security, Harry must solve the murder before facing dire consequences.
Nine Dragons
In "Nine Dragons" a Chinese liquor store owner is shot in LA, leading Harry Bosch to revisit the Rodney King riots and a moment from his past. Harry must repay a debt and uncovers that the old man's death was not a typical robbery. Despite the police overlooking important clues, Harry begins to uncover a web of corruption and intimidation involving local triads. As he tries to build a case and break the silence in the community, he realizes he is facing a powerful enemy that extends beyond LA and even the United States. Harry's loved ones become endangered, forcing him to venture outside his comfort zone and confront his worst fears alone.
Blue on Black
"Blue on Black" is a mystery novel about LAPD Detective Harry Bosch's pursuit of a suspect named Denninger, who he believes is responsible for the disappearance of two women. With only a few photos as evidence, Bosch enlists the help of FBI agent Rachel Walling to strengthen his case.
Suicide Run
"Suicide Run" is an eBook featuring LAPD Detective Harry Bosch in three captivating short stories. In these stories, Bosch investigates the apparent suicide of a young starlet, delves into a haunting closed case of a murdered unidentified teenage girl, and tackles the murder of a skilled poker player with multiple enemies.
Angle of Investigation
"Angle of Investigation" is an eBook that features three short stories following LAPD Detective Harry Bosch. In these cases, Bosch investigates a burglar's death during a heist, a young boy's supposed accidental death, and one of his first unsolved homicides as a rookie patrolman. As Bosch tackles these tough cases, he also confronts his own past and fears as a father.
The Drop
"The Drop" is a crime novel that follows detective Harry Bosch as he investigates a brutal murder from 1989. The evidence points to a convicted rapist, but there's a twist - he was only eight years old at the time. As Harry delves deeper into the case, he also finds himself caught up in a mysterious death and a long-standing conspiracy within the police department. With his career on the line, Harry must uncover the truth behind these secrets before it's too late.
The Black Box
"The Black Box" is a novel set in May 1992, during the aftermath of the Rodney King beating and the ensuing riots in Los Angeles. As chaos engulfs the city, homicide detective Harry Bosch faces the daunting task of solving a murder amidst the lawlessness. When he is forced to hand over the case to the Riot Crimes Task Force, he believes it will never be solved. However, twenty years later, new evidence emerges, revealing that the journalist's death was not a random act of violence. Determined to bring the killer to justice, Harry must confront the darkest days of the city he holds dear.
Switchblade
"Switchblade" is a gripping crime novel where Harry Bosch, a detective, receives a call from an anonymous witness regarding a cold case murder. The accused is currently imprisoned for another crime but is close to being released on parole. Bosch must locate the reluctant witness in order to keep the accused behind bars. With new DNA evidence, Bosch faces a race against time to ensure justice is served.
The Burning Room
"The Burning Room" is a police procedural set in the LA Police's Open-Unsolved Unit. Detective Harry Bosch is assigned a unique case where a man dies almost a decade after being shot by a stray bullet. With little evidence to work with, Bosch and his new partner, rookie Detective Lucia Soto, must navigate a politically sensitive investigation. As they uncover new leads from old information, they realize that the shooting may not have been random.
The Crossing
"The Crossing" tells the story of Harry Bosch, a former LAPD detective who left the force and is now enjoying the benefits of being out of the game. However, when defense attorney Mickey Haller asks for his help on a murder case, Harry is drawn back into the world of crime-solving. This time, Harry is working for the defense, trying to prevent the accused, Da'Quan Foster, from being convicted. As Harry navigates the case, he finds himself in danger of betraying his own principles and crossing over to "the dark side" as his former colleagues would say.
The Wrong Side Of Goodbye
"The Wrong Side Of Goodbye" is a detective novel featuring Harry Bosch. Bosch, a part-time detective in San Fernando, is approached by Whitney Vance, an ageing aviation billionaire. Vance wants Bosch to find a woman named Vibiana Duarte, with whom he had a relationship many years ago. Vibiana disappeared after becoming pregnant, and Vance wants to know what happened to her and if there is an heir to his fortune. As Bosch delves into Vibiana's story, he uncovers surprising connections to his own past and becomes determined to uncover the truth, despite the potential dangers involved.
Two Kinds Of Truth
In "Two Kinds Of Truth" Harry Bosch, a seasoned detective, is called to a double murder at a local pharmacy. However, his past comes back to haunt him when a death row inmate accuses him of framing him for the crime. With the LAPD against him, Bosch must rely on Mickey Haller, The Lincoln Lawyer, to help clear his name. As the two cases intertwine, Bosch discovers that there are two types of truth: the truth that persists and the truth that is deadly.
Dark Sacred Night
In "Dark Sacred Night" Detective Renée Ballard is working the night shift when she discovers retired detective Harry Bosch going through old files. Intrigued by the cold case he's working on, Ballard decides to investigate it herself. The case involves the unsolved murder of fifteen-year-old Daisy Clayton, a runaway found dead in a dumpster. Ballard and Bosch team up to uncover the truth and bring the killer to justice. As they delve deeper into the case, their partnership is tested when unexpected dangers arise.
The Night Fire
"The Night Fire" is a crime novel that follows Harry Bosch, a rookie homicide detective who is deeply influenced by his mentor, J.J. Thompson. After Thompson's death, Bosch is given a murder book that Thompson had taken with him when he left the LAPD two decades earlier. The case involves the unsolved murder of a troubled young man in a drug-infested alley. Bosch enlists the help of Renée Ballard to uncover why this case ignited Thompson's passion all those years ago. As they delve into the investigation, Bosch and Ballard form a strong bond and begin to question whether Thompson stole the murder book to continue working on the case in retirement or to ensure it remained unsolved.
The Dark Hours
"The Dark Hours" is a crime novel that follows Detective Renée Ballard as she investigates a murder that occurred during a street party. As she delves deeper into the case, she discovers that the victim had a troubled past that has come back to haunt him. Ballard connects this murder to an unsolved case previously worked by ex-LAPD legend Harry Bosch. However, her investigation takes a dangerous turn when a new crime occurs, committed by a deadly pair of predators known as the Midnight Men. As Ballard navigates through a police department facing protests and a pandemic, both cases have the potential to either save her career or bring it to an end.
Desert Star
Desert Star is a gripping crime novel that follows LAPD detective Renée Ballard as she returns to the force to lead the cold case unit. When she offers Harry Bosch, a fellow detective, the opportunity to work on his long-standing unsolved case, they must work together to solve not only that case but also a decades-old rape and murder. As they face political pressure and dangerous killers, Ballard and Bosch must set aside their differences to bring justice to the victims.
Hieronymus Bosch: A Mysterious Profile
In this short book, Michael Connelly explores the origins of his police detective. He discusses the challenges the detective faced during his childhood, which was inspired by the life of another well-known crime writer. Connelly also reveals the detective's past as a tunnel rat in Vietnam and explains why jazz is an important part of his life. Additionally, Connelly shares the story of how he named his character after a fifteenth-century Flemish painter and how his own fears as a young person influenced his creation.