The first in a thrilling trilogy of novels on New Orleans's underworld, "The Tavern" explores how a pair of unsuspecting young parents becomes wrapped up in a crime-laden community, simply by being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Looking to build a better life, Italian emigrants Emilio and Jacinta Schlorini settle into historic New Orleans and open La Taverna, a neighborhood pub. The couple is blessed with a child and, for a time, a prosperous business. But before long, Jacinta grows suspicious of her husband, and of the patrons who claim to be their friends.

Enter Frankie...