Another great novel from one of if not the best writer of police procedure. Hope there are more books coming with detective stilwell and the gang on Catalina island. Enjoyed new setting and characters. Looking forward to next one. Thanks to net galley and publisher for digital arc of this great read

Michael Connelly introduces readers to a new character in his police procedurals with Detective Sergeant Stillwell of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department in Nightshade, arriving on store shelves May 20. Stillwell finds himself assigned to Santa Catalina Island, 22 miles off the Southern California coast, after the politics of the homicide department have forced him off the mainland.

On Catalina, Stillwell leads the sheriff’s substation where he finds most of his workload confined to drunk and disorderly arrests and petty theft cases. He starts most days watching the folks who disembark the Catalina Express, a ferry from the mainland. Many of the tourists expect to be gambling at the Catalina Casino not realizing that it is and has always been a ballroom and a movie theatre.

Today is going to be different because a hull scraper has reported his encounter with a human body anchored down 33 feet under a private boat. Having been a recovery diver when he worked on the mainland, Stillwell suits up for the cold water and plunges into the ocean to verify the claim. Stillwell theorizes the body has been in the water for at least four days; he determines it is a woman who has dark hair with a distinct streak of purple dye.

As he surfaces, he plans the next steps in the investigation: call out the dive team, the homicide unit, and the coroner’s investigators from Los Angeles. Once he turns the murder over to the mainland team, he knows he should stand down but instead he works the case from the island side. He finds himself once again pitted against homicide cop Rex Ahearn, known by cops as A-hole or King A-hole, who wants Stillwell to back off from the case.

Stillwell knows that much investigation can be done on the island rather than from a chair in the homicide unit. Soon, he is on the trail of the woman called “Nightshade,” but once he turns that information over to Ahearn, he finds himself called on the carpet by his boss on the mainland.

When Ahearn pins the murder of Nightshade on the wrong assailant, will Stillwell accept that outcome or will he bring in the real killer himself?

Connelly has left the streets of Los Angeles behind for this island in the Pacific that was once owned by William Wrigley Jr. of chewing gum fame. Along with the change in law enforcement venue, the Nightshade novel introduces a wide-range of supporting characters as well as a few “bad guys.”

After Michael Connelly spent three years covering crime in Los Angeles, he wrote his first novel featuring Harry Bosch, The Black Echo, which he based partly on a true crime. Three of Connelly’s characters have found success on streaming platforms Amazon Prime and Netflix: Bosch, Bosch: Legacy, and The Lincoln Lawyer with a third character, Renee Ballard, promised her own series.

My review will be posted on Goodreads starting March 18, 2025.

I would like to thank Little, Brown and Company, the Hatchette Book Group, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in return for an objective review.

One of my favorite writers of all time. A slow build on a new character and setting but same fast paced can't put it down style. Loved every second and can't wait to see how these characters continue to develop.... Keep up the good work.

Terrific news in the mystery novel world! Michael Connelly is writing a new series featuring a detective on the seemingly idyllic Catalina Island, off the coast of LA County. Nightshade follows LA County Sheriff’s Detective Stilwell as he works the usual drunk-and-disorderlies and petty thefts that are his territory since being exiled by department politics to the low-key post.
Stilwell gets a report of a female body found weighed down in the harbor and a report of a buffalo beheading on the island’s preserve – so he follows the cases where they take him even though he must cross all the lines of protocol and jurisdiction. The woman becomes known as Nightshade, a poisonous flower which grows on the island. The serene island has many secrets and villainous characters though it was meant to be Stilwell’s escape from the evils of the big city. I certainly enjoyed learning about Catalina Island, where no automobiles are allowed and sailing is a way of life.
Connelly is the bestselling author of over thirty books, including twenty-five Harry Bosch novels, eight Lincoln Lawyer novels, six Renee Ballard and Bosch novels and two other series. This new series featuring Stilwell is a stark variance from his other LA novels by setting and main character who is young and has a romantic interest. Stilwell, however, like Bosch, the Lincoln Lawyer and Ballard is a misfit with values in a world with few obvious values.
While I hope to see more Ballard/Bosch novels (my particular favorite of Michael Connelly), this new series is welcome for its setting – a perfect summer read about Catalina Island – and its new lead detective, a combination of Ballard’s youthful doggedness and Bosch’s wisdom.
My rating 5 of 5
This ARC title was provided by Netgalley.com at no cost, and I am providing an unbiased review. Nightshade will be published on May 20, 2025.

Nightshade is a propulsive, engaging and suspenseful thriller by one of the absolute best crime writers in the business. Michael Connelly delivers yet another winning book featuring a hard-nosed detective involved in solving hard-hitting crimes.

LA County Sheriff's Detective Stilwell runs the station on Catalina Island, a post he’s been exiled to because of past actions and department politics. Despite the usual lack of excitement that goes with chasing petty crimes, Stilwell is making the best of the situation…until a dead body is found submerged in the harbor. Combined with an investigation into buffalo mutilation on the island, Stilwell finds himself in the middle of the action once again. At first partnering with his colleagues on the mainland, then ignoring protocol and investigating on his own, Stilwell is determined to close these cases and bring those responsible to justice. But what he doesn’t count on is the revelation of the evil that lurks on the island and the personal ramifications his crusade will cost him.

This may be the start of a new series, but it delivers the signature gritty, raw intensity that makes Connelly’s crime novels so compelling. Stilwell is a strong character with a clear moral compass, an indefatigable work ethic and the tunnel vision required to be a great investigator, even if it puts him at odds with his peers and superiors, and impacts his personal life. He also likes Jazz music. Sounds like another beloved Connelly detective, doesn’t it?

By moving the main setting to Catalina, Nightshade provides a distinctive setting, new characters and fresh storylines to pursue that differs from Connelly’s Bosch and Ballard books. It’s a great move to open this new avenue for Southern California crime exploration. Something that feels familiar to old fans but also provides an entry point for new readers. There are numerous possibilities for where this series can go, which should excite crime thriller fans. And who knows, maybe there’s potential for a Connelly universe crossover in the future.

Anyone who loves a good crime novel will seriously enjoy Nightshade. It’s a strong, intriguing, intense thriller that moves with pace and purpose. And if you happen to be a Connelly fan already, this one is sure to impress.

Another page turner, with the cliffhanger chapter endings. It was nice to be introduced to new characters and new locations. Lots of twists to hold the attention. Another great book from Connelly.

"Nightshade" marks the second book by Michael Connelly that I've read. It presents a compelling police procedural, although the initial quarter of the book progresses at a somewhat leisurely pace. The narrative introduces a new detective overseeing the police department on Catalina Island. I found Detective Stilwell to be a particularly engaging character; he is both tenacious and compassionate. The plot revolves around two distinct cases, which are easy to follow and ultimately converge satisfactorily by the conclusion. I would rate this book a solid 4 stars!

I extend my gratitude to NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for providing the ARC for my reading and review.

Thanks for the ARC! Always exciting being introduced to a new Connelly lead character, and Stilwell doesn't disappoint. I'm not sure how often murders happen on Catalina Island, but hopefully often enough to keep Stilwell busy, because I want to read more. Catalina is an amazing place, and a great location for a story like this. You get the British countryside small town detective vibe, without getting too cozy, because LA is right there off in the distance, with its seedy LA problems that Connelly is a master at bringing to life. Hopefully we'll be seeing more of Stilwell soon!

Nightshade is the beginning of a new character and setting from Michael Connelly.

"LA County Sheriff's Detective Stilwell has been 'exiled' to Catalina Island after departmental politics moved him off the homicide desk. He spends most of his time dealing with petty theft and drunk-and-disorderlies until he gets called about a body weighted down on the bottom of the harbor. Working against an old colleague, Stilwell works the leads, knowing he is the only one who can get justice for the victim."

Connelly has been in Catalina before but never with this much detail. Stilwell is another Connelly character that hates that bureaucracy would rather have a reason to close a case thatn solve it. His attitude creates a lot of friction with other detectives and his Captain. But he fudges around the edges until he finds what he needs to solve the crime. There are plenty of surprises with both cases that Stilwell is working.
I love the setting. Catalina Island is not exactly isolated but you have to invest some time to get there. It has it's own ecosystem and people. Makes for an interesting mix.

There are similarities to Bosch but Stilwell is different enough.

Great new series from Connelly.

This is a page turner written by a favorite author. Suspense…mysterious…dynamic characters…red herrings…the recipe for a cannot put down story. I like this author and his stories. True to life…although fiction, the reader can imagine it is true crime. Thanks Netgalley

Michael Connolly seems to have the beginning of another great series with the introduction
of Detective Stilwell ~ a seemingly clever Detective who tussled with the wrong ‘dark side’
homicide Detective, resulting in his transfer to Avalon. Avalon is the main City on the Island
of Catalina - and this novel offers the reader a great look at the island and what it has to offer.
We also enjoy corruption at its highest levels, mixed with what I assume are the players for
this upcoming series. The most important take away here is that ‘Stil’ as he’s known to
folks he likes, is a good guy. And a clever Detective who was probably sent to the island
as punishment, but he may just be on his way to happiness and success, so he’ll be happy
to stay.I’ve not visited the island, but I have learned enough about it to feel a part of the ‘sub’
and the permanent residents to know that there is a power structure that should not
be fussed with! I love the tie in with the title of the book! I recommend this book.
My thanks to Little Brown and Company via NetGalley for the download copy of the
book for review purposes.

I’m thrilled to have a new hero from Michael Connelly. Loved Stilwell and Catalina is a fascinating new setting. Connelly would have to try very hard to disappoint me.

I want to thank the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to review an ARC of this new book. I attest my review is original and unbiased.

Michael Connelly is well known for his signature characters of Detective Harry Bosch and his half-brother Mickey Haller or many who know him as the Lincoln Lawyer. NIghtshade introduces a new character, Detective Stillwell, based on Catalina Island off the California coastline. Stillwell or "Still" did not go to Catalina because he wanted to; he was assigned there following an internal investigation in the LA detective bureau. As a personal aside my wife and I visited Catalina several years ago for a short trip. After two nights there we were ready to return to the mainland.

Stillwell is not as well-known as Bosch, but he has similar detective skills and a very analytical mind. Two plots weave simultaneously through the book. The first involves the killing of one of the island's buffalos, an endangered and protected species. The animal was decapitated and the head is missing. The buffalos are a real part of Catalina Island, as are other stories the author weaves into the narrative, adding realism to the story.

The second plot involves the murder of a young woman who worked at a gentleman's beach club as a waitress. Her body is found in the bay, wrapped in plastic and deposited in a large zippered bag. Who is she and who murdered her? This plot is vintage Connelly storytelling, taking the reader through a number of complicated plot twists while revealing new facts and leads in the case.

The climax is able to resolve both mysteries, but not without costs. At the risk of leaving spoilers I'll leave the review here and let you take in the book if interested.

I enjoyed reading Nightshade and give it 4/5 stars. I would like to have more character development on Stillwell, beginning with what's his first name? We don't have much of any background on Stillwell beyond the political mess that brought him to Catalina Island except that he is divorced. Perhaps the author kept it short and will develop this more if Stillwell becomes the focus of a new series. If it is one and done then it doesn't really matter.

Title: Nightshade
Author: Michael Connelly
Series: Detective Stilwell Book #1
Genre: Thriller
Publisher: Little Brown and Company
Pub Date: May 20, 2025
My Rating: 4.4 Stars!
Pages: 400


Story starts when Detective Sergeant Stilwell with the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department has been “exiled” to a low-key post policing rustic on Catalina Island, after department politics drove him off a homicide desk,
He will be the lone detective on Catalina Island and a big tourist weekend is coming up. Stilwell knows he’ll be busy the typical drunk-and-disorderly who come with a busy weekend. However, he gets a report of a body found weighed down at the bottom of the harbor. Stilwell puts on his wetsuit to investigate and finds a body in a black plastic bag anchored down. The bag is torn and he can see that the body is a woman with long dark hair with a streak of purple streak in her hair. Additionally gets a report of poaching on a protected reserve.
Link to a You Tube video of author Connelly doing a promo on Catalina Island ~.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alGZrq8idVk

I am a Michael Connelly Mickey Haller, Harry Bosch and now a Stil fan!!!

Living in Southern California I know that being sent to Catalina Island is a punishment any of us would love!
It appears Stil feels the same way!
Looking forward to the next Stil and Tash Catalina adventure!
Additionally love when a story includes so many familiar landmarks!.

Want to thank NetGalley and Little Brown & Company for this great eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for May 20, 2025.

LA County Sherif Detective Stilwell has been “exiled” to scenic Catalina Island because of office politics on the mainland. It is usually petty theft and drunk and disorderly, but then Stillwell gets a report of a body weighed down at the bottom of the harbor. He also gets a call about a stollen statue from the prestigious Black Marlin Club. One of Stillwell’s deputies gets attacked and ends up in the hospital. Are any of these incidents related? This is a lot of crime, and Stillwell is going to have to work with the Sheriffs on the mainland.

It is exciting to read the first book in a series! I’m looking forward to seeing how these characters develop. Like Bosch, Stillwell, toes the line of the rules but will get to the bottom of things. I am absolutely stoked about the series being set on Catalina (bummer to have to do research trips to the island lol). This is a must read!

Thank you NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for the ARC. #Nightshade #NetGalley #MichaelConnelly

Loved the new set of characters, but same old Connelly which is a winning combo in my opinion. Corruption, murder, and the ideal setting of Catalina, is a winning trifecta and the pages flew. Ready for the next one!

Michael Connelly's latest novel, Nightshade, introduces a cast of well-developed, realistic, and flawed characters that instantly draw you in. Detective Stilwell, the main character, walks a fine line between following the rules and doing whatever it takes to get the job done — making him both relatable and compelling. With a murder, a theft, a buffalo mutilation, and a touch of romance, there's plenty of action to keep you hooked. Whether this turns into a new series or remains a standalone, it's sure to be a hit. As always, Connelly delivers, and this one was no exception!

Nightshade by Michael Connelly. An interesting rough and tumble lone wolf police officer who at times is likeable and then again not so much. Many twists and turns and false clues ultimately lead to a satisfying conclusion of the cases. Mr. Connelly skillfully slipped in informative boating terminology into the narrative. (pun intended). Good start to a new series with Detective Stilwell as the leading character and looking forward to the next book.

Thank you to the author, Little, Brown and Company, and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book.

trouble. The latest one is stubborn, hard nosed, but very capable Detective Stilwell. While building a relationship with a local woman, he is faced with solving two crimes; the beheading of a protected buffalo and the body of a young woman found trapped under the sea. While investigating, he crosses some lines and is also forced to work with an old nemesis.

I have enjoyed Michael Connelly’s books for more years than I care to count so am thrilled that he is introducing a new character in this, his fortieth novel. Connelly writes consistently captivating stories; this is a solid addition to his body of work.

Well plotted, with memorable characters, Nightshade is an engrossing read. I always appreciate the bits of humor Connelly injects into his books. If you are a fan of this author, you will welcome this new character and setting. If he is new to you, be sure to get in on the ground floor of this first of a series.

Lethal, fatal, toxic......

You'll be taken in by the delicate flower of the Nightshade. It draws your eye to the feminine shape of its blossom. And that's the magnetism that can result in instant death.

Michael Connelly sits on the throne of mystery/crime novels without a doubt. The man has a magic touch. And what I'd say is to get in on the ground floor of this new series by the master. Whether you're a true fan or a newbie, be sure to start here. There's fire within these pages.

We'll bump up against L.A. County Sheriff's Detective Stilwell in this latest novel. "Stil" has been relegated to Catalina Island for his so-called "sins" when he locked horns with another detective. It seems like Catalina Island is serving as a holding pattern for officers tossed to the side to chill before being welcomed back into the fold.

While investigating a crime against a buffalo on the island, Stilwell is called in on something far, far worse. The tide has drifted in the body of a female weighed down by a pleasure boat anchor. Stilwell dives below the surface himself. Said victim has dark hair with a streak of purple that shifts back and forth across her face. It takes time to identify this woman since the body has been submerged for quite some time. But when they do, it will be a major catalyst for so much more to come.

Nightshade opens up a rigid avenue into a brand new character for Connelly. We'll have the sandy shores of Catalina Island serviced by a ferry that runs on exact times. We'll also be introduced to the rich and famous who check in their boats and sailing vessels in the harbor. Not all will be playing by the rules.

The character of Stilwell is one who will get your attention from the first pages. He is hardly a super cop. Stilwell has his flaws which are evident through his personality. But man oh man, Stilwell dogs a case like a bloodhound on steroids. Connelly writes him like an open book (pun intended) which gives the reader a close view into all his Spidey senses. He won't let things go much to his detriment at times. And his hat trick is moving back and forth from the island to L.A.. This one is a winner folks, so get in on the first shake-out of an exciting new series. Bravo, Connelly, just bravo.

I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Little, Brown and Company and to the highly talented Michael Connelly for the opportunity.