Book Review: Lost Hills by Lee Goldberg

Lost Hills
by Lee Goldberg (Goldberg)

I’ve been a fan of Lee Goldberg for many years — first for his non-fiction writing (Unsold TV Pilots, Successful TV Writing), then for his series of original novels based on the Monk and Diagnosis: Murder TV series (the latter of which he produced and wrote for). I’ve subsequently found several of his other novels — some are in series, and some are stand-alone. His writing style ranges from light-hearted and comical mysteries (Monk) to incredibly serious police procedurals. Lost Hills is one of the latter.

Eve Ronin is a new detective in the homicide division of the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, stationed in the hilly terrain NW of Los Angeles. Though young, she got her position after receiving some notoriety online , when she busted a big Hollywood star misbehaving, and an onlooker shared cellphone video of the incident online. She’s not quite earned the respect of her fellow detectives yet, but that may change when she and her partner field a horrific murder case. There are no bodies, but the house they investigate is soaked in the blood of what the CSI types believe is three murder victims. Ronin’s more senior partner has her take point on the case — he’s nearing retirement and doesn’t want the headaches. So we get to see the procedural details of a gruesome murder investigation, mostly from the P.O.V. of a young detective who’s still learning on the job.

This was a compelling read, and though Eve Ronin is still little more than a introductory character, with a quirky actress mother and a supportive medical doctor sister, I wanted to learn more about her. The case is interesting, and according to an author note at the end, it is based on a real case, making it all the more shocking. What little humor is present in this story is mainly in the character relationships — the case itself is deadly serious. Though perhaps not as polished and heavily detailed as some of the other police procedurals out there (it only clocks in at 224 pages), this was a good read, and I look forward to seeing more in this series, if Goldberg continues to use Eve as a character.

[If you enjoy this, you may also wish to try the Renee Ballard series by Michael Connelly.]

[ official Lee Goldberg web site ]

Recommended by Scott C.
Bennett Martin Public Library – Public Service

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