In Michael Connelly’s 2005 novel, “The Closers”, the main character Harry Bosch, a homicide detective for the LAPD, returns from retirement to help solve an unclosed murder mystery from 1988.  Bosch and his partner, Kiz Rider, are assigned the case of Rebecca Verloren, a 16-year-old girl who was abducted in her sleep and murdered in the open hilly area behind her home.  Because the murder occurred 17 years prior, Bosch and Rider only have DNA evidence on the Colt .45 used to kill Verloren, and the information gathered from the girl’s family and friends to piece the case together and any possible motives.

The investigation takes many twists and turns, which add to Bosch’s lingering anxiety that there is an even more powerful and intelligent killer on the loose.  The case takes an even worse turn when Bosch uncovers information that causes him to fear possible corruption on the police force.

Chilling, captivating, and filled with plot twists, “The Closers” is just more evidence to support the fact that Michael Connelly is one of the best mystery writers of our time.  Connelly weaves a great story about a rough-around-the edges detective who just wants justice for the victim, but he can also portray the lingering effects of families affected by crime and how devastating of a blow it can be in a beautiful, yet haunting way.