It pains me to say this, because I'm a huge Michael Connelly fan, but "Chasing the Dime" just doesn't cut it. There are two major problems. First, the protagonist - a research scientist - makes decisions that are consistently silly and illogical to the max. (Think "The 3 Stooges," or the two idiots in the "Dumb and Dumber" film, for example; unfortunately, this book is not intended to be humorous.) There are a number of turning points where, if he does only what anyone with an IQ over, say, 80, would do, the story is over. Second, this same protagonist is a manipulative, compulsive liar...not exactly an endearing trait for the character the reader is supposed to care about. In short, Connelly has created an unlikable protagonist who stupidly gets himself into one completely preventable crisis after another. Very disappointing novel. Also, very puzzling, considering that Connelly is undoubtedly one of the best mystery writers working today.