Nightshade

Michael Connelly never ceases to amaze. He masterfully introduces a new investigative character in a debut outing that will likely rival his beloved Harry Bosch novels. This new police procedural is packed with twists, unexpected revelations, and red herrings, all building toward an explosive denouement.

Righteous Detective Sergeant Stillwell has been banished to the “low-key” post of Catalina Island after clashing with a fellow detective who preferred to cut corners rather than pursue proper justice. The assignment is an indirect punishment, leaving Stillwell surrounded by petty thefts, drunk and disorderly cases, and a staff of bungling, largely inept deputies.

The story kicks off with the beheading of a buffalo in a protected reserve. This bizarre act points to Henry Gaston, who might be trying to generate publicity for his “Island Mystery Tours” business. Stillwell suspects there’s a deeper connection to local crime boss Oscar “Baby Head” Terranova—who, it turns out, is Henry’s employer. Suspicion escalates when Henry first disappears, then reappears seeking protection in Stillwell’s jail—only to have his throat slit while in custody.

Meanwhile, the manager of the exclusive Black Marlin Yacht Club reports the theft of a supposedly priceless jade statue and fingers a recently fired waitress, Leigh-Anne Moss. She had been repeatedly warned about fraternizing with members and guests—men she considered potential “sugar daddies.” Things spiral out of control when a body, bound in sailcloth and weighted with an anchor, washes into the harbor. The only identifiable feature of the young woman is a swatch of purple dye in her long, flowing hair.

Despite being warned to stand down by the Los Angeles Police Department Chief, Stillwell can’t help but become fully enmeshed in the island’s intertwining mysteries. Clues begin to point more clearly to the fact that the perpetrator is still on the island.

Connelly expertly weaves together the multiple plotlines with escalating suspense and intrigue. Through skillful plotting and rich character development, he transforms the narrative into a fast-paced, page-turning tour de force of crime drama. Stillwell is a worthy addition to Connelly’s impressive body of work.

Thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown & Co. for supplying an uncorrected proof in exchange for an honest review. I look forward to Stillwell’s next investigative adventure—which promises to stand proudly alongside the canon of Harry Bosch.