Rudy Stephanetti, the VP of marketing for Pickleball Pro Gear, arrives in San Amaro with his wife, Gloria, and his two adult children, Logan and Brianna. Rudy's intention is to coach Logan for his upcoming pickleball tournament in Palm Springs. However, things take a turn for the worse when Rudy is found dead. The lead detectives on the case, Ricardo and Julia, soon realize that Rudy was far from a pleasant man. For instance, on his first day on the pickleball courts, he had a heated argument with the club's leader, Clint Brayer, and also had a confrontation with his son. Later that night, during a party, Rudy fired one of his representatives, Norm Wester. As Ricardo and Julia delve deeper into the investigation, they discover a growing list of suspects.

In this work, Ross delves into the complexities of abusive and toxic relationships, using the story of Rudy as a case study. Rudy is a controlling figure who creates a pervasive atmosphere of fear and unease, which is dissected and analyzed through the unique voices and conversations between the characters. Ross' attention to detail and her ability to craft realistic and relatable characters add depth and nuance to the story, providing valuable insights into personalities and motivations. As the story progresses, Ross skillfully builds suspense, taking readers on a captivating journey to uncover Rudy's killer. The intricate plot twists and turns keep readers engaged and guessing until the very end. The book is an essential read for anyone struggling with abusive relationships, as it offers a realistic and honest portrayal of the dynamics of these and their devastating effects. Overall, this powerful read is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the complex and often hidden world of abuse.

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