The second novel in William Kennedy's much-loved Albany cycle depicts Billy
Phelan, a slightly tarnished poker player, pool hustler, and small-time
bookie. A resourceful man full of Irish pluck, Billy works the fringes of
the Albany sporting life with his own particular style and private code of
honor, until he finds himself in the dangerous position of potential go-
between in the kidnapping of a political boss's son.