Saxon returns to his hometown, Chicago, where one of his oldest pals, cop Gavin Cassidy, has died of a lethal combination of drugs and alcohol in a cheap hotel. Saxon arrives for the funeral to find his old crowd—and the old town—much changed. He also encounters rumors that Gavin’s death might not have been accidental. Had Gavin Cassidy, a career cop, finally “seen the elephant” (police parlance for becoming involved in a life-threatening situation), and been unable to extricate himself before it was too late? Saxon’s unofficial investigation into his friend’s death is hindered by the still strong Chicago police machine bosses—and by his long estranged, ex-con father.
Les Roberts is the author of more than 30 books, including the Milan Jacovich mystery series, the Saxon mystery series, and others. The past president of both the Private Eye Writers of America and the American Crime Writer’s League, he came to mystery writing after a 24-year career in Hollywood writing and producing television shows. He has been a professional actor, a singer, a jazz musician, and a teacher. A native of Chicago, he now lives in Northeast Ohio and is a film and literary critic.