Introduction

The year is 1981, and Stefano DiTommaso has a desperate problem: his family debt. The older of two Italian-American brothers, he must uphold his family's honor by repaying this debt, incurred in Sicily by his father many years before. It isn't monetary, but the debt keeps him under the thumb of a New York City organized-crime group—with the safety of his family dependent on his success at doing their bidding.

Stefano's Talents and Dilemmas

Over the years, the teachings of the criminal organization, as well as his own experiences, have developed Stefano's talents in many areas—including the use of weapons. But his abilities are a double-edged sword. And his desperation is caused by the fear that, with the criminal organization's demands escalating, it is only a matter of time before they compel him to become a killer. His situation is even more complicated by the fact that he is a Catholic priest.

The Florida Keys Journey

When a violent crime is committed involving his sister-in-law, Stefano and his brother journey to the Florida Keys in search of retribution. With the area already a seething cauldron from race riots, violent dopers, and "Marielitos," adding them to the mix will be just the right ingredient to make the pot boil over. In Key West, their dangerous quest thrusts the brothers into a complex, violent world of drug smugglers, murderers, and crooked cops. Still, a few heroes emerge to help them. And while everyone seems to have their own secrets and hidden agendas, Stefano finally gets the opportunity to use some of his abilities in a positive, personal way.

The Final Confrontation

But, when their interlude in the Keys has ended, it has only served to postpone Stefano's focus on his incessant dread: the family debt. Will he ever be free of it? Finally, he must return to New York City to confront it.