The Blood of the Innocents

The future of noir fiction is bright, and that future is named S. A. Cosby." - Dennis Lehane

The South hasn't changed. This is something Titus Crown faces every day. A former FBI agent, he is the first black sheriff to be elected in Charon, the land of his childhood. While his election made his father proud, it sparked anger among the white population who couldn't bear to see him in uniform, and suspicion among the black community who believed he was in league with the oppressor. Despite facing criticism, Titus strives to uphold the law in a rural county plagued by the opioid crisis and racial tensions. That is until Latrell, a young black man, shoots Mr. Spearman, the high school's favorite teacher, before being gunned down by the police. Some cry out terrorism, while others claim it is yet another case of police brutality. As tensions escalate, Titus finds himself in a race against time to uncover the truth.

At Sonatine, we'll never say we have a favorite, but if we did, it would be S. A. Cosby. In three novels, the author has emerged as an essential voice and a master of American thrillers. Following "Blacktop Wasteland" (winner of the New Voices of Crime Award) and "Razorblade Tears," "Love and Theft" only solidifies his talent for intense and high-pressure plots, torn characters, and his remarkably clear-eyed view of America and the marginalized individuals it leaves in its wake.

Prefaced by David Joy, "One of the most powerful, original, and captivating voices in contemporary fiction." - The Washington Post. "The heir to American thriller, and all strong and impactful novels." - Michael Connelly. "The future of noir fiction is bright, and that future is named S. A. Cosby." - Dennis Lehane.

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