Detective Dave Mason is now the supervisor of Robbery Homicide division of the Santa Monica Police Department. He is not only overseeing his former colleagues, but also his former boss. The team is currently working on a number of big-ticket burglaries they cannot seem to connect together, but believe is the work of the growing number of Chechens in the area taking over with their own gangs.

When the owner of an upscale condo in a high price complex called to report a dead body in his home, Mason and his team quickly responded. As the detectives worked their case, it look like a robbery gone wrong. It appears the robbers are receiving inside information, knowing when and where to hit. As they were investigating the original case, a daring robbery occurred in the building manager’s condo.

As the team worked their cases, they also had to deal with their somewhat acerbic relationships with one another and their changing role with their boss. Mason also had to deal with the FBI and Homeland Security who told him to stay away from the case. The higher ups are pressuring him to close the high-profile case.

Mason is a hardworking cop who struggles with his new position, his relationships with his boss, his co-workers, and his girlfriend. All the while, he presses forward to solve the crimes that are a negative effect on his beloved Santa Monica, no matter what it takes.

Even his personal life is challenged as Ginger wonders if she wants to continue in a relationship with a cop. As the investigation continues, Mason and his team realize they are getting into much more than simple robbery. Can the team get themselves together and handle the challenge before them?

Rip-Off was written by Mar Preston, author of No Dice, the first Dave Mason mystery. Her police procedurals are fast-paced and addictive. Her characters are realistic with problems of their own both at home and at work, situations that readers can identify with.

The author draws readers in as she lays out the clues, inviting them to see if they can solve the case. Mystery fans will love this book as they get drawn into the action. We strongly recommend Rip-Off for anyone who wants to read a well-written, gritty, realistic novel.

A special thank you goes to the author and Pertinacity Press for providing a complimentary copy of Rip-Off for our review. If you are interested in purchasing Mar’s books, they are available on Amazon.com.