Acapulco’s first female police detective plunges into a deadly web of secrets, lies, and murder when she’s assigned to investigate the killing of her own lieutenant.
“Consistently exciting.” — Kirkus Reviews
In this explosive opening to the award-winning Detective Emilia Cruz mystery series, Emilia Cruz has beaten impossible odds to earn her badge. Now she works in a city where danger is constant, trust is scarce, and survival is never guaranteed.
World-famous for its beaches and nightlife, Acapulco is also ground zero in Mexico’s drug war. Cartels battle for smuggling routes into the United States. Human trafficking is rampant. People vanish without a trace. Homicide rates soar—and most murders go unsolved.
Worse still, corruption runs deep inside the police department.
No one is more corrupt than Emilia’s own lieutenant.
When he’s murdered, Emilia is ordered to lead the investigation—and quickly uncovers truths powerful people want buried. The mayor and the head of the police union push her to close the case, not for justice, but for self-preservation.
As the evidence piles up, another detective emerges as her prime suspect.
Like one of Acapulco’s legendary cliff divers, Emilia must decide whether to leap toward the truth or protect her own life. Either choice could be fatal.
She won’t be ready for the impact.
Neither will you.
Optioned for television, the Detective Emilia Cruz police dramas draw on author Carmen Amato’s 30-year career in national intelligence, counterdrug operations, and espionage. Every novel delivers raw authenticity, high-stakes tension, and relentless intrigue.
“A thrilling series.” — National Public Radio
“A wonderful crime mystery.” — MysterySequels.com
Fans of international crime fiction featuring Armand Gamache, Harry Hole, Guido Brunetti, and Department Q will be captivated by Emilia Cruz’s complex investigations, pulse-pounding suspense, and vivid setting.
Perfect for readers of Ian Rankin, Jo Nesbø, Peter May, and Don Winslow’s cartel and border thrillers.
