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The Black Ice
Michael Connelly

The Black Ice

Quick Answer

Read "The Black Ice" as the 2nd book in the Harry Bosch Series sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "The Black Echo" (Book 1)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Verdict Insight: As the 2nd installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2002336 ppWikidataSource
When an LAPD narcotics officer is found with a fatal bullet wound and a suicide note, Detective Harry Bosch follows a bloody trail of drug murders across the Mexico border. ​Working the case, LAPD detective Harry Bosch is reminded of the primal police rule he learned long ago: Don't look for the facts, but the glue that holds them together. Soon Harry's making some very dangerous connections, starting with a dead cop and leading to a bloody string of murders that wind from Hollywood Boulevard to the back alleys south of the border. Now this battle-scarred veteran will find himself in the center of a complex and deadly game—one in which he may be the next and likeliest victim.
Next Recommended Book

The Concrete Blonde

Book #3 of 19 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for Harry Bosch Series conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading The Black Ice?

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Can I read The Black Ice before The Black Echo?

No. We recommend reading The Black Echo first. The Black Ice is the 2th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is The Black Ice required reading for the Harry Bosch Series?

Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.

What comes after The Black Ice in the reading order?

The next recommended book after The Black Ice is The Concrete Blonde (Book #3).