Pacific Reaper

A Detective Emilia Cruz Novel

By: Carmen Amato

Narrated by: Leanne Maksin

Acapulco’s first female police detective finds herself entangled in the deadly web of a voodoo-like cult. In the remote Coyuca Lagoon, where Hollywood's iconic Rambo was filmed, Emilia and her partner stumble upon a grisly crime scene—a man sacrificed on an altar to Santa Muerte, Mexico's forbidden saint of death. Drug cartels are often associated with the worship of Santa Muerte and it’s clear that the killer meant to send a savage message. But who was supposed to get it? The answer comes in the form of gory gang murders displayed on city billboards.

As Emilia investigates the string of homicides, everyone close to her has a near-death experience. Bad luck? Or has Emilia been cursed by the so-called Skeleton Saint? Determined to stop the killings, Emilia goes undercover as a worshiper on the eve of the Day of the Dead, immersing herself in the dark world of Santa Muerte and all that is unholy. But as secrets begin to unravel, so does her life.

After a 30 year career as a CIA intelligence officer, Carmen Amato writes mysteries and thrillers loaded with intrigue and action. Listeners who love murder mystery police procedural series by Ian Rankin, Jo Nesbo, Ann Cleeves, Peter May, as well as the Department Q novels and Don Winslow's cartel and border thrillers set in Mexico, also love Detective Emilia Cruz’s complex plots, fast action, pulse-pounding suspense, and international location.

Two-time Poison Cup award, Outstanding Series — CrimeMasters of America

This gripping police procedural mystery will keep you on the edge of your seat until the final tick.

Don't miss your chance to experience the heart-stopping suspense and unyielding determination of Detective Emilia Cruz in her most dangerous police investigation yet.

©2017, 2023 Carmen Amato (P)2025 Carmen Amato

Exciting and entertaining.

This is Book 5 of 9 in this series, but my first time with this author. I wasn't lost, but I can see where there was past events, too. It certainly has an exciting plot, wonderful characters. Very well written. It left me wanting more. I want to hear more of Emilia Cruz!

Leanne Maksin presents this Acapulco murder mystery so well. Her Hispanic accent and proper pronunciation bring authenticity to this story. She brings feels and angst to the action. 5 stars for her as well.