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The Narrows
Michael Connelly

The Narrows

Quick Answer

Read "The Narrows" as the 9th book in the Harry Bosch Series sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "Lost Light" (Book 8)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

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

Verdict Insight: As the 9th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2004416 ppWikidataSource
In the depths of the Nevada desert, FBI agent Rachel Walling and former LAPD Detective Harry Bosch must confront The Poet, a terrifying serial killer who leads them down a dark and twisted path. FBI agent Rachel Walling finally gets the call she's dreaded for years, the one that tells her the Poet has surfaced. She has never forgotten the serial killer who wove lines of poetry in his hideous crimes -- and apparently he has not forgotten her. Former LAPD detective Harry Bosch gets a call, too -- from the widow of an old friend. Her husband's death seems natural, but his ties to the hunt for the Poet make Bosch dig deep. Arriving at a derelict spot in the California desert where the feds are unearthing bodies, Bosch joins forces with Rachel. Now the two are at odds with the FBI . . . and squarely in the path of the Poet, who will lead them on a wicked ride out of the heat, through the narrows of evil, and into a darkness all his own . . .
Next Recommended Book

The Closers

Book #10 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 Narrows?

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

Can I read The Narrows before Lost Light?

No. We recommend reading Lost Light first. The Narrows is the 9th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is The Narrows 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 Narrows in the reading order?

The next recommended book after The Narrows is The Closers (Book #10).