The Blade Itself - Marcus Sakey

In the poor neighbourhood where he grew up, you were only as strong as the reputation you built. Danny and his best friend Evan built theirs turning over pawnshops and liquor stores.
But one night Evan lost control.
A man was shot.
And everything changed.

While Evan was caught and gaoled, Danny slipped into the night, praying that his best friend wouldn't use his name to shorten his sentence.
The knock on the door never came.

Danny turned things around and built a life to be proud of. He's put the past behind him.

Then he spots a barely recognizable Evan in the back corner of a smoky bar - muscled, covered in tattoos, and just out of State Pen.
The way he sees it, Danny owes him. But just how far will Danny go to protect his future?