Mr. Vasquez has chosen to set the stage for his novel in Belize, his native country. I think that was a clever choice, as one gets a little tired of novels that take place in Manhattan or Miami or San Francisco, and it is very interesting to be introduced to an entirely new environment. It is difficult to believe that this is Ian Vasques's first novel.

It is very well written, and the characters are "human" and the plot, while decidedly different, is intriguing. The main character, Miles Young, the boxer, is not the dashing hero that we so often come across in this kind of book. Instead, he is thoughtful, sympathetic, and a man who is capable of looking after himself and his very young daughter while endangering his life by "going after the bad guys". I liked him, partially because he did the right thing in the end.

If you are looking for a book that deals with deceit, corruption, family problems, and also contains tenderness, understanding, and a relatively happy ending, this one is for you. Personally, I will be watching for Mr. Vasques's next book.
Review by Litera Scripta