OK here goes.  I read this book about 10 or so years ago.  Author's last name I believe started with an F and I'm pretty sure the first name is Rick or Mick or Nick (yeah, pretty sure :)  ).

It takes place in near future and technology seems to play a big part; roving gangs of teenagers; main charatoer i think is some kind of law officer or maybe a PI type.  People live in big cities with wastland inbetween.  And there's something wrong with the transportation facilties or something.

Cover was a drawing of a man (main character) with futuristic city in background (I know, 60% of SF books have this same cover! :)   )

Storyline is dark, not very upbeat.  But it has been in the back recesses of my mind ever since and I really would like to remember what it was!

Thanks for any help!

Patti M.

Woo Hoo!  I think i found it!  I went to SciFan and started looking at all the authors with last names starting with F and there he was:  Mick Faren!

I looked at a couple of his books and I'm pretty sure the one I'm trying to remember is Vickers.  The publication date seems to be about right also.  And the best part is that Melvin S had a copy!  I have ordered it and can't wait to see if it's what I'm looking for.

fingers crossed.......

PS:  boy, what they say about aging and memory seems to be spot on!  I thought a PI or policeman, but it seems Vickers is an assansin!