Lorenzo Brown has been released from prison and now has a job as an officer for the humane society.  He has much pride in his job and tries very hard to stay out of trouble.   While in prison, Lorenzo refused to squeal on his friend Nigel Johnson.    Lorenzo has a dog to keep him company.  He rescued her from the New York Avenue Shelter the night before her scheduled euthanizaton.  One of the problems Lorenzo faces is each day while patrolling the streets of Washington, D.C., he comes in contact with some of the menaces of his past.

Rachel Lopez is a parole officer who keeps an eye on Lorenzo and several others to make sure they stay out of trouble.  However, Rachel leads a very different life at night.  She visits the local hotel bars and indulges in many vices.  Is this her way of getting rid of the tension of the workday? 

Nigel Johnson is a drug dealer who plans to make some real big money. 

After a territorial war evolves, Lorenzo realizes he needs Rachel's help more now then ever.  Lorenzo knows of illegal animal fights.  He also learns of the murder of two people and Lorenzo also believes he knows who killed them.  Is Rachel able to help Lorenzo or is it too late for her? 

George Pelecanos has written a compelling novel.  It is very thought provoking and shows us how difficult it is for someone who is trying to stay out of trouble to do the right thing without getting pulled back into a troubled past.  The thing that makes this book an interesting read is the way the author weaves back and forth within the chapters to tell the stories of Lorenzo and Rachel.  George Pelecanos is a very talented writer and this book is highly recommended. 

REVIEWED BY NANCY EATON

DO NOT REPRINT WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE REVIEWER, NANCY EATON