Murder in the Gardens

Murder in the Gardens is a well-written crime novel by first time author Robert Trotta, a retired Detective from the New York City Police Department. Aging mobster Rocco DeAngelis is paroled from prison after spending twenty years behind bars for the sensational Drake Hotel New Years Eve robbery in 1983. Forced into retirement Rocco moves to Palm Beach Gardens Florida, where he plans and executes the heist of a famous Marc Chagall painting at the behest of the NY Russian mob. Fearing the locals who abetted Rocco might not stand up to an interrogation the mob has them murdered. The crime is investigated by Rocco's former nemesis, retired police captain Deo Bosso and Palm Beach County Homicide Detective Lydia Martinez. As the two sleuths join forces, a relationship of mutual respect and romance ensues. Rocco, who has been a loner all of his life and never has had a relationship with a woman, also finds romance in Palm Beach Gardens. The reader will know who committed the crimes detailed in the story, but will enjoy seeing how the author develops the leads and clues to solve the theft of the painting an the murders that follow. They will also gain insight to the exclusive lifestyles of the uber-wealthy of Palm Beach County, Florida.