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RATING: |
Date of Release: May 2003 |
Publisher: Allen & Unwin |
Review Source: |
Strange is trying to save former drug overlord Granville Oliver from the death penalty, while rival gang factions battle to fill the gap in the market left by Oliver’s arrest. But someone in federal law enforcement is desperate to stop Strange from finding evidence, and enlists the help of the gangs to stop him.
Meanwhile Strange and Quinn locate a young woman in what appears to be a routine disappearance case. When the woman is later found murdered in a local park, and Strange’s family and livelihood are threatened, their guilt forces them to reassess the consequences of their actions.
In typical Pelecanos style, the action is peppered with references to popular culture, especially music. Events take place to a backdrop of Missy Elliott, Ennio Morricone and Marvin Gaye.
Throughout the book, Pelecanos explores the harsh realities of life on the streets, and the obstacles faced by honest citizens in their day-to-day existence. As the characters develop, we see them struggle to find redemption by “making a difference” in the lives of those around them.
Unjudgmental about his flawed characters, Pelecanos reserves his condemnation for the social policies which leave young men with no hope to grow up too fast, mere miles from the wealth of the country’s decision-makers on Capitol Hill.
Excellent
