Exactly 20 years ago, today, Michael Connelly’s Bosch universe officially changed for the better thanks to one significant milestone. Before he became a novelist, Connelly worked as a crime reporter in Florida, which gave him insight into the investigative and legal processes. This experience benefited him greatly when he decided to start writing books.

His Bosch book series garnered immediate critical acclaim, focusing on a former Vietnam veteran-turned-LAPD detective named Heironymous “Harry” Bosch. This character brought Michael Connelly to fame, but his franchise changed for the better exactly 20 years ago when the famed author released one book.

The Lincoln Lawyer’s Mickey Haller Made His Official Book Debut On This Day In 2005

On October 3, 2005, Michael Connelly took a big step forward for the Bosch universe by publishing The Lincoln Lawyer. The book introduced audiences to Mickey Haller, the best defense attorney in Los Angeles, who works out of the back of his Lincoln cars. Mickey also just so happens to be the half-brother of Harry Bosch.

There is no question that the Bosch franchise was fantastic prior to The Lincoln Lawyer. However, the new book series helped flesh out the world even more. Plus, Mickey is now a staple in the Bosch books, appearing in both big and small ways to help out his half-brother.

Unfortunately, he hasn’t appeared in the Bosch show or its spinoffs because different companies own the rights to The Lincoln Lawyer and the Bosch series. It would take a miracle for Prime Video and Netflix to partner up for a crossover between these two shows.

Since the first book’s debut, Michael Connelly’s The Lincoln Lawyer novels have become bestsellers and a fan-favorite crime series. They are lauded for their legal realism. Plus, Mickey Haller is just such a lovable character that it’s hard to stop reading his stories.

Luckily, Mickey Haller’s story has made it to both the big screen and small screen. In 2011, The Lincoln Lawyer, starring Matthew McConaughey, released in theaters. Critics and audiences highly regarded it. More recently, the book series has been adapted into a beloved Netflix show with Manuel Garcia-Rulfo playing Mickey. Three seasons are out with a fourth on the way.

Mickey Haller’s Character Deserves To Be Just As Popular As Harry Bosch

Harry Bosch is usually the first character that comes to mind when thinking about Michael Connelly’s books. This is understandable, as Bosch has been around a lot longer. All three Prime Video shows have increased the popularity of the character in the detective fiction category. Plus, there’s a noir element that draws in audience members.

However, Mickey Haller deserves just as much love and appreciation as his half-brother, as the lead of The Lincoln Lawyer. He’s a fascinating character who has gone through a lot in his life. His journey with substance use disorder and his efforts to put his life back together are extremely resonant.

Additionally, Mickey has many facets to his character that keep the books and TV show engaging. Mickey isn’t the one-note page after page, nor is he the same across every episode. Like Harry Bosch, he has a family that’s very important to him.

It’s wonderful to see the various kinds of relationships that Mickey has with his family and friends, which naturally grow and change over time. Plus, he’s a powerhouse in the courtroom, making those scenes compelling.

Could Netflix’s The Lincoln Lawyer Run As Long As Bosch?

Lara Solanki/Netflix

Bosch ran for seven seasons, and the first spinoff was an additional three. Now, Ballard has one season with a potential second one (not confirmed yet) on the way. The scope of the franchise isn’t surprising, considering Michael Connelly has written 25 Bosch books. Netflix’s The Lincoln Lawyer hasn’t lasted nearly as long, considering it only started in 2022.

So far, three seasons have been released, and a fourth is coming soon. The show skipped the first book, since the movie covered that case. They also skipped the third book since that wouldn’t have worked without the character of Bosch. As such, that means they’ve adapted all but two of the Lincoln Lawyer books.

Based on the books, it’s unlikely the Netflix show will run as long as Bosch. However, it’s possible that more seasons will come out as Michael Connelly writes more books centered on Mickey. They could also return to the skipped book if they introduce a character to replace Harry Bosch.

It’s Still Devastating That Bosch & The Lincoln Lawyer Shows Can’t Include Mickey & Harry’s Relationship

Hopper Stone / ©Amazon / Courtesy Everett Collection

It’s easy to see why fans are enthusiastic about Bosch and The Lincoln Lawyer. They are both fantastic shows with compelling actors and well-written stories. However, that does change the disappointment I feel when thinking about the fact that Mickey Haller and Harry Bosch will never get to share the screen together.

Their relationship isn’t just a plot device, meant to give both characters more resources for their cases. Their connection is meaningful, and it grows over time. It will be tough to watch The Lincoln Lawyer season 4 without Bosch, as he is a steadying force as Mickey goes through one of his biggest challenges ever.

That being said, at least Titus Welliver’s Bosch is still appearing in Ballard. That crossover isn’t the same, but it does slightly make up for the absence of the half-brothers.