No fruit says fall like apples. Baked into pies, pureed into sauces, sauteed with meats and stews both savory and sweet, it is one of our most comforting and versatile fruits. But which apple to use for what?

Portland homicide detective Joe Burgess is beginning to think he might be getting too old for the job. Pushing 50, fueled by bourbon and red meat, coffee and donuts, Joe’s usually sound judgment and tenacious investigative skills are being crowded by unhealthy cynicism and a surprising lack of patience when dealing with liars, public indifference and senseless murder.