"Genuine characters and intense action -- a serious crime novel with serious edge." -- New York Times-bestselling author Patrick Lee

An Edgar Award Finalist

The job seems simple. Conway Sax, a no-nonsense auto mechanic with a knack for solving difficult problems, has never liked obnoxious blowhard Tander Phigg. But a promise is a promise. Tander's a Barnburner, a member of the unique Alcoholics Anonymous group that rescued Conway, and when a Barnburner has a problem, Conway takes care of it. Besides, all Tander wants is to get back his baby, a vintage Mercedes that's been in a shady auto shop far too long.

But Conway soon discovers there's much more to the problem than Tander first let on -- especially when Tander turns up dead. Conway was the last person seen with the victim, and on top of that, he has a record, making him the cops' top suspect. He must catch the killer to clear himself, but beyond that, he's a man who honors his promises, even when the guy he made them to is dead.

"A refreshing new character solving hard-core crimes... crisp plotting, hard-boiled style, and realistic dialogue." -- Associated Press

"Ulfelder couples precise, evocative prose with an original private investigator in his compelling hard-boiled debut... Ulfelder smoothly navigates the many plot twists, and effortlessly introduces wrinkles in his protagonist's backstory that enhance the character. Fans of Michael Koryta's PI crime novels will find a lot to like." -- Publishers Weekly (starred review)

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• Literature & FictionLiterary FictionAction & Adventure
• Mystery, Thriller & SuspenseThrillersDomestic

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• Print Length: 314 Pages
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