Burke has finally returned to NY to be with his "family." There is a touching scene early in the book when his is reunited with Flower, who is not fazed by Burke's new, mangled face. However, Burke is running out of money, especially after being set up with a new batcave. After some discussion of getting involved in trafficking, Burke is hired by a mob guy and his surprising friend to find out who killed his illegitimate daughter and why. Lots of theories, but the investigation shows the girl Vonni was a normal kid, which is why the violent nature of her death is hard to understand, except as a message. All good, but the book drags and the antics and dialogue of Cyn and Rejii are pretty annoying, although Michelle's star shines bright in this one. Vachss uses the younger generation's obsession about video and fame to craft a memorable but very dark story. ( )

It is nice to see Burke back in NYC and home with his family after being forced to hide out in past novels. ( )