Repentance

In 2001 Argentina, the police pension’s empty coffers compel world-weary Buenos Aires police inspector Joaquín Alzada, the hero of Díaz’s outstanding debut, to stay on the job. Until the day he and his wife can retire to the countryside, Alzada is doing his utmost to avoid becoming entangled in his nation’s ongoing political unrest and to keep his idealistic young partner, Deputy Orestes Estrático, out of trouble in a dangerously charged landscape. Alzada, now the oldest inspector on the force, has managed to survive while maintaining his principles. In a country where people disappear—like his brother Jorge 20 years earlier—keeping a low profile can be the difference between life and death. When the body of Norma Echegaray, a wealthy young socialite killed execution-style, is found by a dumpster, Alzada’s role in the years known as the Dirty War can no longer remain buried. Flashbacks to the violent upheaval of 1981 provide context for 2001’s relentless economic crises, riots, and life under revolving governments as Alzada struggles to deliver mercy when justice is not possible. Aficionados of mysteries with a hard edge will welcome Inspector Alzada. Agent: Maria Cardona, Pontas Literary (Spain). (Oct.)