Michael Connelly's The Reversal is a gripping legal thriller that brings together two of his most popular protagonists — defense attorney Mickey Haller and LAPD detective Harry Bosch. The novel is the third entry in the Mickey Haller series, but it also functions as a crossover with the Bosch series, adding layers of complexity and character development for fans of either or both.
The plot centres around the high-profile retrial of Jason Jessup, a convicted child murderer who has spent 24 years behind bars. New DNA evidence casts doubt on his conviction, and the case is brought back to court under immense public scrutiny. In an unusual twist, Mickey Haller, usually a defense lawyer, is recruited by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office to serve as a special prosecutor. Haller agrees, on the condition that he can choose his team — and he picks his ex-wife, Maggie McPherson, as second chair, and his half-brother, Harry Bosch, as lead investigator.
The narrative switches between Haller's first-person account of the trial and a third-person perspective following Bosch’s investigation. This dual narrative style is the attraction of the novel, offering readers both a front-row seat to the courtroom drama and an indepth look at the behind-the-scenes police work. Connelly balances these threads masterfully, creating tension that builds steadily toward the climax.
What sets The Reversal apart from typical legal thrillers is Connelly’s ability to weave authentic legal procedure with moral ambiguity. Haller’s internal conflict about switching sides — from defense to prosecution — adds a thoughtful dimension to the story. The novel also explores the psychological ramifications of long-term incarceration, media sensationalism, and the fragility of justice.
Jason Jessup is portrayed not just as a possible victim of a wrongful conviction, but as a deeply unsettling character whose behaviour raises serious red flags. Connelly keeps the reader guessing whether Jessup is innocent or just dangerously clever. As the trial progresses, the suspense intensifies, and both Haller and Bosch find themselves navigating a minefield of legal, ethical, and personal challenges.
The dynamic between Haller and Bosch is another highlight here. Their contrasting styles — Haller’s courtroom strategy and Bosch’s streetwise persistence — complement each other well. The inclusion of Maggie McPherson also brings emotional depth, as the case rekindles old tensions and moments of vulnerability between the former couple.
Connelly’s writing is crisp, fast-paced, and rich in detail without being bogged down in legal technicality. The dialogue is sharp, and the courtroom scenes are particularly compelling, reminiscent of the best legal dramas. The author, who was himself a former crime reporter, uses his journalistic sensibilities to ground the story in realism, which adds to its credibility and intensity.
The Reversal is a compelling addition to the Mickey Haller and Harry Bosch canon. It stands as a taut, thought-provoking legal thriller that probes the boundaries of justice, loyalty, and truth. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Connelly or new to his work, this novel offers a satisfying, smart, and suspenseful read.