First published 2023
A brutal attack leaves a Sacramento businessman dead and his wife wounded in their home. Detective Emily Hunter and partner Javier Medina arrive expecting a simple burglary turned deadly. Emily discovers the victim harbored secrets that complicate the investigation. Political pressure mounts for a quick resolution while unknown forces work to bury the truth. Emily juggles the demanding case with caring for her mother, who suffers from early-onset Alzheimer's. Her investigation reveals connections to gang violence and a web of corruption that reaches into the city's power structure. The deeper Emily digs, the more dangerous her position becomes. She must identify the real killer while navigating threats that could make her the next target. The case forces Emily to balance professional duty against personal vulnerability as she uncovers a conspiracy built on betrayal and avarice.
Genres: mystery, crime, thriller, detective
Vibes: dark, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: amateur-sleuth, conspiracy, corruption
Setting: Sacramento
Period: 21st-century
320 pages · Hardcover · Oceanview Publishing
Content warnings: violence