A review by graff_fuller
Nightshade by Michael Connelly

challenging dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring mysterious reflective sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Detective Stilwell is another "outsider". He's from the main land. He's been disgraced and sent to pasture in Catalina. He's a loner. He sometimes works outside the bounds of staying safe, but he's relentless for the truth (which seems to be the signature attributes of Michael Connelly's protagonists). I believe that this new character has legs for many books to come.

Now that I have read the entire story, I have to say..."I'm here for it." When I first was introduced to Detective Stilwell, I "saw" what the author was about to do. I didn't immediately like this character (which was a good thing), for the hook was set, and now the author was going to make me like him. He's flawed and opinionated, and he believes he's right (not in a prideful or boastful way, but because he's a damned good investigator). Yes, he's lost some battles, but he's a survivor.

I wanted to see where the investigations were going to go. 

I also love how the author wove many different stories into one narrative, for life isn't one case in one book (week of two of work). Detectives have to shuffle, juggle and set aside things, for this or that new thing.

It was also good to see that he's already set down some roots. He's and outsider (and will never be accepted by everyone), but he's been accepted by the ones that matter.

I loved how the story was written, and the experience of cases that were followed, and bore truth.

I look forward to picking up the next Detective Stilwell novel, and any Harry Bosch universe book.

As of right now, I've read EVERYTHING that has been written by Michael Connelly (as far as I know of). 

Phew. Looking forward to Proving Ground, when it comes out.