Silent Joe

Winner of the 2002 Edgar Award for Best Novel With horrible remnants of a childhood trauma forever visible across his otherwise handsome face, Joe Trona is scarred in more ways than one. Rescued from an orphanage by Will Trona, a charismatic Orange County politician who sensed his dark potential, Joe is swept into the maelstrom of influence and intimidation that surrounds his adoptive father's illustrious career. Serving as Will's right-hand man, Joe is trained to protect and defend his father's territory—but he can't save the powerful man from his enemies. Will Trona is murdered, and Joe will stop at nothing to find out who did it. Looking for clues as he sifts through his father's life—the acquaintances, deals, enemies, and girlfriends—Joe comes to realize how many secrets Will Trona possessed, and how many people he had the power to harm. As Joe deepens his investigation, a figure from his past emerges, forcing him to confront the painful events of his troubled childhood. This