Chicago residents are accustomed to a high murder rate and police officers shooting unarmed citizens, but killing a council member-now that is something else.

When Earl Williams is found slumped over his office desk, Detective Harry Johnson persuaded Councilman David Strong to assist in the murder investigation of their mutual friend. Williams’ constituents are angry, so the city’s mayor has the police make a quick arrest. This strategy to keep the city calm goes south fast, as demonstrators demand the release of the incarcerated young man.

David Strong, a reluctant sleuth, investigates Williams’ death while supporting the protestors. His efforts put him in the crosshairs of the police, Russian mobsters, Mexican drug dealers, and local street gangs.

If Strong is going to unravel this murder mystery and come out alive, he must use all of his wits.