David Putnam uses his decades of law enforcement experience to write authentic police thrillers. This fantastic novel is based on real life accounts that Putnam experiences early on in his career. This is the first book I have read in the Bruno Johnson series, and it did not disappoint. Bruno Johnson is all set to begin his career as a detective in the LA County Sheriff's Violent Crimes Division. On his first day he receives a bombshell as his daughter, which he knew nothing about, is dumped on his doorstep. But Bruno's problems are just beginning. The department brass develop a plan to use Bruno to infiltrate a narcotics team that is infected with dirty cops.

Along the way Bruno encounters some dangerous people and situations, and his dad and daughter are always in the back of his mind as he performs his job. Bruno soon senses that things aren't quite right when it comes to the details that have been shared with him. He struggles to make sense of the investigation as he figures out who exactly he can trust in this game.

This book has a complex cast of characters. Some will definitely rub you the wrong way, and others you will find yourself rooting for. The nature of the work that Bruno is tasked with and the characters combine to keep the tension ratcheted high, leading to an explosive conclusion that you won't see coming. I will eagerly anticipate the next installment in this series as it is sure to pack the action and suspense that this book delivers.

I would recommend this book to fans of police procedurals, thrillers, and suspense. I received this as a free ARC from Oceanview Publishing on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The incredibly fast-paced, tense storyline kept me guessing until the end. Bruno is very likeable. I'd like to see him in a sequel.