High Steaks is smartass, erudite and intriguing. The characters have surprising backgrounds that serve as social commentary, somewhat in the Spenser for Hire mode. Among the principals there's betrayal, alcoholism, gambling addiction, skimming, blackmail and cynicism. But there's love, compassion, fundraising for a worthy cause, an idealistic election, and enigmatic letters that keep popping up. This book has what literature should have: a privileged peek into the soul."—Harry Stoll, editor of Vine Times