This debut novel in the acclaimed Luis Montez series introduced a hero unique in detective fiction: a world-weary middle-aged lawyer steeped in the politics, history, and culture of the golden age of Chicano activism.

Twenty years ago, a gang attacked four Chicano student activists and shot down their leader, Rocky Ruiz. Now the survivors, Montez's former compatriots in the movement, are in danger. One is killed, another beaten, and a third driven into hiding. Enter Teresa Fuentes, a beautiful young lawyer determined to solve the mystery and just as determined to avoid becoming involved with Montez. To save his friends, Montez must reexamine the central event of their shared past-the murder of Rocky Ruiz. Just as difficult, he finds, may be to untangle his feelings for Teresa Fuentes.

MANUEL RAMOS is an attorney and a part-time professor at Metropolitan State College of Denver. His debut novel, The Ballad of Rocky Ruiz (St. Martin's, 1993), was nominated for an Edgar. His other awards include the 1994 Colorado Book Award for Fiction and the 1991 Chicano/Latino Literary Award. Three of his other Luis Montez novels-The Ballad of Gato Guerrero (St. Martin's, 1994), The Last Client of Luis Montez (St. Martin's, 1996), and Blues for the Buffalo (St. Martin's, 1997)-are forthcoming in new editions from Northwestern University Press..

"A very impressive debut." —Los Angeles Times

"That rare mystery novel that delivers both suspense and a vivid glimpse of a culture often overlooked by the genre. An impressive, accomplished novel." —El Mundo Latino

"You know, Luis, you remind me of Easy Rawlins. . . . Your first case is a seamless blend of politics and plot, with a tone of wry humor throughout. It's nice to get to know you: You're a rare and lovable spirit." —San Francisco Review of Books