Penguin Modern Classics

''Superbly edgy. Entertaining, full of good one-liners'' Sunday Times

Downtown LA. Streetwise lawyer Mickey Murphy has a shabby office in a low-rent district, an ex who bleeds him dry and the kind of clients who would plead the Fifth if they could count that high. He''s also been bought out by millionaire tycoon Zach Petrovitch - who just happens to be married to the love of Mickey''s life. When she asks him for help, Mickey finds himself thrown into a world of Hollywood stars, shady schemes, riots - and murder.

''Crime at its most entertaining, filled with lively dialogue'' Sunday Telegraph
''Deighton''s ear for dialogue and eye for lunatic California are perfect'' Sunday Express