The Late Show
The Late Show
Book Brief
Beta405
Novel • Fiction
Los Angeles, California • Contemporary
2017
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Late Show by Michael Connelly follows Detective Renée Ballard who works the night shift in the LAPD. Overcoming personal and professional challenges, Ballard is determined to uncover truths behind two unsolved cases that she encounters during her shift. The novel highlights her dedication, resilience, and the complexities of police work.
Reviews & Readership
157,853 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews for Michael Connelly's The Late Show highlight well-crafted characters and compelling prose. The protagonist, Renée Ballard, earns praise for her depth and determination, while the narrative's pacing keeps readers engaged. However, some critics find the plot points predictable and the secondary characters underdeveloped. Overall, it's a gripping start to a new series.
Who Should Read The Late Show?
Readers who enjoy The Late Show by Michael Connelly are typically fans of gritty, fast-paced detective fiction with a strong, complex female protagonist. Similar audiences might appreciate books like The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson and Still Life by Louise Penny.
157,853 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
In The Late Show, Renée Ballard is introduced as a new, fierce detective character who works the "late show," or the night shift, in Los Angeles, marking a fresh addition to Michael Connelly's established literary universe.
This novel provides an immersive look into the demanding and often overlooked night-time crimes that occur in a sprawling and multifaceted city like Los Angeles, showcasing Connelly’s attention to procedural detail.
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Renée Ballard’s character was inspired by a real-life detective Michael Connelly met and followed on the LAPD night shift, who similarly embraced the challenges and independence of working the nocturnal beat.
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405
Novel • Fiction
Los Angeles, California • Contemporary
2017
Adult
18+ years
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