Book excerpt: When a gambling magnate comes into possession of the original 17th century deed to Manhattan and uses it to bargain for a casino in the heart of New York City, the stage is set for a devastating blow to the presidential aspirations of the Governor and an economic meltdown of the State of New York. Caught in the ensuing turmoil is Senate staffer Jack Carnavan, a seasoned political pro with integrity rarely found in the tough game of politics. When Carnavan’s boss, a Senate leader whose twisted fantasies are catered to by his power-lusting secretary, ends up on the wrong side of the Governor’s ambition, egos and lobbyist influence force Carnavan into a career-shattering situation. But when a moralistic Senator and his conservative followers seek to use the gambling issue to nullify the Governor and his presidential hopes, a chance encounter by Carnavan uncovers a scandal that could devastate the Senate and the entire administration. In a stunning climax, Carnavan bends the moral rules and shows that when the stakes are high, politics truly is a blood sport.