When Boston's most beloved public figure, Councillor Philip Stewart, is murdered in his home, the city is stricken with grief. As Boston reels from the shock of such a tragedy, newspapers across the city scramble to get the biggest story in this city's recent history. Who would wish harm upon a man regarded as a sainted soul who dedicated his life to helping the poor and downtrodden? The Boston Post has put its best investigative reporter on the case. Frank Cronin has achieved near celebrity status himself as a shrewd, tireless journalist who always manages to get his story - even if it means bending the rules, ignoring conventional wisdom, or bucking political pressures. Before long, while rival papers are still printing their glowing eulogies, Cronin is hunting down the story no one else wants to know about. In death, facts about Councillor Philip Stewart are emerging that raise troubling questions about the true nature of his life, his character, and his deeds. As Cronin persists in stripping back the facade that in life made Stewart such a beloved public figure, the trouble begins. With pressure mounting to leave the dead man's reputation alone, Cronin must put everything on the line - his job, his reputation, even his life - as he decides just how much of the truth to tell. Digging ever deeper into Stewart's past, Cronin moves inexorably closer to unmasking the killer and his motive - but just when you think you know exactly what to expect, the story takes a stunning turn.
