Review of THE FIX by Anthony Lee

Dark Alley, June 2005

Martin Quinn, half Irish and half Italian, grew up in the shadow of New York's Mafia. While in high school, he became friends with Felix (Fee), son of the head of Russian crime in the U.S. Together, they survived high school. But a shared love for one woman pushed Martin to kill the man who had been his best friend.

Author Anthony Lee begins with the shootout that leaves Fee and Terry dead and Martin badly wounded. The federals move in, accusing Martin of murdering the other two, but offering him the chance to turn on his former allies. Then Lee backtracks through the long friendship between Martin and Felix--and the ripples that their shared love for Penelope created.

Lee's voice is convincing in his descriptions of the New York underworld and the deals that lead to illicit wealth. I found him somewhat less convincing in developing his characters. Perhaps because all of them are criminals, it's difficult to gain any affection for them or find any concern for the troubles they face.

THE FIX is Lee's first novel and it shows considerable promise. Although the story has its flaws, it makes an interesting and perceptive read.

Two Stars

Reviewed 8/03/05

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