Review: Nine Dragons
John Li, the owner of Fortune Liquors, has been murdered and Harry Bosch and his partner, Ignacio Ferras, have been assigned the case. When they get to the scene of the crime, they discover that Li’s wife doesn’t speak English, so they call in David Chu, a detective from the Asian Gang Unit for help. They quickly discover a link to a Hong Kong triad (a crime organization) and it seems that the murder investigation is going well.
When Harry receives a disturbing message, he’s forced to put the investigation on the back burner, so that he can take care of something in his personal life. Harry doesn’t know who he can trust and he wonders if this diversion will allow the killer to go free.
Nine Dragons was my first experience with Michael Connelly‘s work, but it definitely won’t be my last! (Julie has been telling me that she thought Michael Connelly would become one of my favorite authors once I read one of his books, so I was excited to have the opportunity to participate in the Nine Days of Nine Dragons blog tour.) It is the 15th book in the Harry Bosch series (and the 3rd one that Mickey Haller makes an appearance in) but I had no trouble figuring out the characters or keeping up with what was going on, so this book definitely does a great job as a stand alone too. I want to go back and start the series from the beginning now, because I loved Nine Dragons! It was a gripping page turner and the ending came as a total surprise to me! I love it when a mystery isn’t too obvious. I loved Harry – he’s just a little bit crusty and dedicated to the job – he’s just the kind of detective you would want on the case. Mickey Haller’s appearance was very small, but there was enough there to make me interested in his character too. I was fascinated by the peek into life in Hong Kong as well, since I’ve always wanted to visit there. I think readers of mysteries and thrillers will love Nine Dragons.
Other blogs touring this book today are:
Bermudaonion's Weblog 
I’ve always loved Harry. Did you read EW? They rank the best Harry books (this wasn’t one of them!). I think there have been 15 or more. I figure, if they slammed the ones I loved, can you imagine how awesome the “good” ones are?
I don’t think I have read anything by Michael Connelly but I really cannot be sure. I mean to read something by him sure enough though.
I hate to say it, “But I told you so…..” Just kidding! I am so excited that you enjoyed this book. You must revisit all of his books because they are each awesome in their own way.
Sandy has a great point about EW!
I haven’t read Michael Connelly yet but I’ve been meaning to for awhile. Great review, Kathy. I’ve just put him higher on my TBR list.
I’m slowly trying to catch up with the Harry Bosch series. I’m doing it via audiobooks, so it’s taking a little longer. I can’t wait to get caught up so I can read this one. I’ve read so many great reviews about it. And I love that people who haven’t read any of Connelly’s work are now inspired to read more! He’s a fabulous writer!
I had the same experience when I finally read a Connelly this past year. I couldn’t believe that I had missed out all this time.
Glad to hear that this one was terrific. I am waiting for a copy that I won from Marcia. Great review Kathy
Glad to hear it is so good. It’s sitting in my Read Soon pile and I really must get to it. Thanks for not giving away any spoilers.
I haven’t read any of these books before, but I have to admit that I am tempting from what I have been hearing about this book and this detective. Sounds like a great read.
I’ve not read any MC books, but I’m glad to know I can jump right in with this one. I’ll be adding that author’s name to my list to read. Great review!
I haven’t ever read any of his either but I bet I would like it too. Glad you have found a new series to enjoy – although you probably don’t need any more to read!
I’m impressed you liked it so much. I have seen it around on the tour but perhaps I should transfer to the title to my “look for this one” list!
You must read “The Poet”! I love Michael Connelly’s work, and I think that may be his best book. I also really enjoyed “The Lincoln Lawyer”
I am another person that has never read anything by Connelly before…but I bought a book by him at a library sale recently …if I just knew where it was now. Actually, now that i read sarah’s comment before me, I realize it is The Lincoln Lawyer!
Great review! This is on my to-read list.
I’ve only read The Poet by Connelly, but have heard such great things about the Harry series.
I’ve only read one Harry Bosch novel by Connelly, but have often thought to read them all. I’ve seen 9 Dragons mentioned quite often these past days (maybe it has to do with the blog tour?), and am definitely interested now.
This book has caught my eye, but I was worried since I haven’t read any in the series. Glad to know it stands on its own.
Thanks for the review. I really like Michael Connelly. The Poet was one of the best books I ever read, albeit there was some disturbing material I could do without.
Stephen Tremp
I love Michael Connelly’s books. I’m glad to see that this is no exception.
I’ve read one of Connelly’s books and I certainly want to read more!! Great review!!
I need to read more of Connelly’s books. I’ve only read CITY OF BONES.
I had to pop in and see your review on this book. I really enjoyed it too and will definitely look into more reads from Michael Connelly.
You mean I should have been entering all those Nine Dragon giveaways?! Your review convinced me to enter any others I come across.
I’m not a huge fan of this genre, but I have relatives who are, so this might be a good gift for them. Thanks!
I have never tried anything by Michael Connelly I think, but it’s on my “to read” list. Glad you enjoyed this one!
I love Harry Bosch! Best mystery series ever. 😉
I’m glad you enjoyed this book. I loved it as well. Connelly is one of those truly gifted authors that can tell a story without all of those annoying extra words.
I haven’t read anything by this author. This one sounds exciting.