When a dog uncovers bones on a hill nearby Wonderland Avenue in Laurel Canyon, L.A.P.D. Homicide Detective Harry Bosch begins his eighth literary adventure. Partnered with dapper Jerry Edgar, Bosch must ID the bones of a child murdered approximately 20 years ago. To make matters worse, Bosch must look not only for a murderer, but a child abuser, or both.

Having had a troubled childhood himself, Bosch cannot help but identify with the victim and takes the Wonderland bones to heart. However, the case isn't the only thing the 25-year L.A.P.D. veteran takes personally when he allows rookie Julia Brasher to fall into his arms.

At no time does the investigation prove easy as Bosch hits dead end after dead end. True to form, Bosch can't keep on the straight and narrow. Just as the investigation heats up, a seemingly unorthodox suspect interview and a botched detainment add two more skeletons to Bosch's closet.

A Los Angeles resident himself, Michael Connelly creates and riveting mystery against a vivid L.A. backdrop. With the exception of Julia Brasher, the characters were well-dressed in secrets, motives and believable behavior. The plot moves forward with speed and precision. Beneath the shallow grave of a 12-year-old boy lies a riveting mystery.

Bone by bone, Connelly reconstructs the past of both the victim and Bosch himself, keeping the reader tuned in to City of Bones, cassette after cassette until the shocking, but believable climax.

[ by Lynne Remick ]
Rambles: 27 July 2002