Short Straw

Ed Eagle, Santa Fe’s pre-eminent trial lawyer, first introduced in Stuart Woods’s earlier novel, “Santa Fe Rules,” finds himself in extreme domestic difficulties. On the morning of his fiftieth birthday, as he is about to open his elegant new law office, Eagle learns that he is in the sort of trouble usually reserved for his unluckiest clients.

Quickly marshalling his resources, which include two private detectives, an accused murderer, and an ace ex-IRS agent, he begins a campaign to save his law practice, his wealth, his reputation and his self respect from the astonishing actions of the person closest to him.

The action takes his team across the US southwest, and deep into Mexico where no one can be trusted, least of all the police. We visit the lush, southern California world of the very wealthy, the delights of exclusive spas and secluded hotels, and the ever-present danger of the U.S.-Mexican border. Eagle is pitted against a wily and completely ruthless adversary. Full of double-crosses and unexpected twists, Ed’s life is one of heightened risks – and pleasures.

Librarian’s note: the Ed Eagle series has 4 volumes: #1, Santa Fe Rules (1992); #2, Short Straw (2006); #3, Santa Fe Dead (2008); and #4, Santa Fe Edge (2010).