The Throughway — Gary Link

Upholding the law is John Parker's life. It gives his world meaning and direction. It provides something he can always count on. And, because he is a constable for the city of Pittsburgh, it is also his duty. But what if the law is wrong? When High Constable Abraham Butler assigns him to capture a group of runaway slaves, Parker must confront this dilemma. Tracking the slaves through Pittsburgh, Parker discovers a network of local people aiding their escape -- one of whom he holds most dear. As Parker closes in on them, he must decide whether he will uphold the law or abandon it. In pursuit, too, is a slave catcher who prefers to transport dead bodies rather than live ones back to the South. The fallout from their convergence will determine not only who returns to bondage and who goes free, but also who lives and who dies.