Made in Acapulco

Emilia Cruz Mysteries #0.5

by Carmen Amato

MADE IN ACAPULCO is a collection of short stories featuring Emilia Cruz, the first and only female detective on the Acapulco police force. With hot nights on the beach and suspense straight out of the news, the series goes inside Mexico's drug war with a fearless style and a woman who will be hard to forget. The stories in MADE IN ACAPULCO take place before the action in the full-length Emilia Cruz mystery novels, including CLIFF DIVER and HAT DANCE. They have the same fast and dangerous vibe that caused Kirkus Reviews to say this about CLIFF DIVER: "Consistently exciting . . . A clever Mexican detective tale that will leave readers eager for the series' next installment." MADE IN ACAPULCO contains five stories: The Beast captures Emilia's struggle to become the first female police detective in Acapulco. It previously appeared in The Huffington Post's Huff/Post 50 Featured Fiction showcase. The Disappeared sees Emilia search for a friend who goes missing. Those who have gone missing amid Mexico's drug war violence is a continuing theme throughout the mystery series. The Artist was inspired by Mexican poet Javier Sicilia's efforts to bring awareness to the plight of families impacted by the drug war violence and references photos of some of the rallies held in Mexico in recent years. The Date explores the downside of a job that pits Emilia against Mexico's enduring culture of machismo, while also drawing on real events that occurred in a nightclub in Mexico in 2006. The Cliff is the original Emilia Cruz story. Written for a literary critique group, the story was initially entitled So Far From God and introduces hotel manager Kurt Rucker. The story became the basis for CLIFF DIVER, the first Emilia Cruz novel. MEET EMILIA CRUZ Detective Emilia Cruz is a good liar, a fast thinker, a determined investigator and a mean kickboxer. An Acapulco native forced to grow up too fast, she's been a cop for nearly 12 years and a detective for two; a strong woman in a squadroom that didn't want her and is still trying to break her. But Emilia isn't afraid to defend herself and get what she's rightfully earned. But she doesn't know how to handle gringo Kurt Rucker, the manager of a luxury hotel in Acapulco. A former U.S. Marine, he has the confidence and leadership qualities she admires. A triathlete, he's calm under pressure and knows what he wants. But does Emilia? THE TWO FACES OF ACAPULCO There's the Acapulco that tourists know; luxury hi-rises, candlelit nights on the beach, the sweep of the most beautiful bay in the world, the majesty of the clear blue Pacific. There's also the Acapulco that is a prize to be fought over by drug cartels--the city that is home to hookers and thieves, the streets where life is cheap and poverty is as pervasive as the wind off the ocean. Both of these versions of Acapulco claw at each other and force Emilia to survive between them. No investigation will be easy, no crime will be simple. Grab a margarita and come on down to Acapulco . . . If you can take the heat. MADE IN ACAPULCO also contains the first two chapters of Carmen Amato's political thriller THE HIDDEN LIGHT OF MEXICO CITY. Attorney Eddo Cortez Castillo's unexpected relationship with housemaid Luz de Maria Alba Mora becomes a dangerous vulnerability when he investigates links between Mexico's Minister for Public Security and the country's most elusive drug cartel leader. As presidential elections near, Eddo's investigation will uncover a political double-cross fueled by drug money. He'll follow the money trail deep into the underbelly of Mexico's drug culture, where violence buys loyalty, votes are for sale, the odds are against survival, and only a woman whose name means Light of Mary can guide him out. "Note: This is the second edition of MADE IN ACAPULCO and contains additional original content. The 2012 edition is no longer in print."

Genres: Mystery, Fiction, Short Stories, Thriller, Suspense, Crime

22 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 26, 2012

About the author

Carmen Amato is the author of the Detective Emilia Cryz mystery series pitting the first female police detective in Acapulco against Mexico's cartels, corruption, and social inequality. Starting with Cliff Diver, the series is a 2-time winner of the Outstanding Series award from CrimeMasters of America and was hailed by National Public Radio as “A thrilling series.”

Her standalone thrillers include The Hidden Light of Mexico City, which was longlisted for the 2020 Millennium Book Award.

A 30-year veteran of the CIA where she focused on technical collection and counterdrug issues, Carmen is a recipient of both the National Intelligence Award and the Career Intelligence Medal.

A judge for the BookLife Prize and Killer Nashville’s Claymore Award, her essays have appeared in Criminal Element, Publishers Weekly, and other national publications. She writes the popular Mystery Ahead newsletter on Substack with her top secrets, exclusive excerpts and book reviews: https://mysteryahead.substack.com.

Originally from upstate New York, after years of globe-trotting she and her husband enjoy life in Tennessee. https://carmenamato.net/links

Reviews

[Sherry Fundin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Her whole world was this moment, this stinky mat, this iron beast that she had become. A fabulous description of Emilia Cruz…and she will need that iron will, that strength, in what is to come. Emilia is the first female detective in Acapulco and she had fought hard for it. I love the character and as I read the five stories in Made In Acapulco, I grew to love her more.

Machismo. Corruption. Cartels.

“Always pay it forward. It’s the only way we’ll save our future.”

BEING BRAVE IS NOT THE ABSENCE OF FEAR: IT’S THE COURAGE TO PRESS ON IN SPITE OF FEAR

This introduction into Emilia Cruz only makes me want to read more.

[Carmen Amato · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my own book. MADE IN ACAPULCO started life as a short story entitled SO FAR FROM GOD, written for my extremely honest and talented writers group. It was the first viable short story I’d ever written, despite having penned four novels, and I nervously awaited the group’s reaction.

When Detective Emilia Cruz Encinos and hotel manager Kurt Rucker emerged from the evening’s critique as authentic and vulnerable characters with an enthusiastic audience, a new mystery series was born. The first novel CLIFF DIVER uses elements of MADE IN ACAPULCO but expands it into a bigger story about Mexico; a story of honest people caught in the country’s drug corruption and violence, a story of strength and hope despite the odds. HAT DANCE, the second in the series, is a fiery tale of loss and salvation. Both will be released in early 2013.

As the series continues, I hope you can spend some time in Acapulco with Emilia and Kurt. Grab a margarita, think hot nights on the beach, and enjoy.

[Jim Crocker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This outstanding freebie is a wonderful introduction to Carmen Amato's compelling main character. The Cliff will leave you wanting more. And there's plenty more, too!

[D.G. Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Detective Emilia Cruz is the protagonist of the series, and it didn’t take long for me to get hooked. This prequel gives us the beginnings background of how she made detective in a city where the cartel have infiltrated, in a male dominant police force where it’s difficult to learn who is corrupt and who to trust. In this 8 book series, I believe they are each stand alone stories featuring Detective Cruz, and this prequel will give you enough background history to for reading the books randomly. Emilia is a brave female cop in a man’s world facing having to deal with some gruesome crimes – murders, kidnappings, and counterfeits, and often not knowing who she can trust both, at work and in her personal life.

The scenery descriptions are beautiful as is Acapulco, makes me sad of the political happenings that changed the landscape from the fun, safe party vacation town to a dangerous place for tourists. Amato keeps the stories interesting with pace and action, and rich and authentic descriptions of locations and real events.

These short stories kept me glued with wondering – how do you know if you can trust your own colleagues? I am looking forward to reading more in this series as two of Amato’s books already await me.

[Lise · Rating 4 out of 5]

She's worked incredibly hard to become the first female detective in Acapulco, but the real work is just about to begin for Detective Emilia Cruz.

This is the origin story for Emilia Cruz and her life as a detective in Acapulco. Where most would be bitter about the treatment she endures, Emilia is philosophic and resourceful. This taste of the series is gritty (perhaps too much so for my tastes) and feels authentic.

I recommend this sampler, and its series, for readers who enjoy a deep dive into the seamier side of Mexican policing.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Made in Acapulco by Carmen Amato

Made is Acapulco is five short stories. We are introduced the detective Emilia Cruz . I enjoyed this read as Emilia is the only detective in the Acapulco police department. She tells of the struggles Emilia faces and how the drug cartels are predominant and play a major roll in the Mexican justice system.

Emilia is very likable, I found it fascinating that the stories are based on true events. Also I loved that the book is based in Acapulco, Mexico. I read Hat Dance and greatly enjoyed it. I was please to get a bonus (first two chapters) of The Hidden Light of Mexico City which I intend on reading.

[Norm Hamilton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emilia Cruz, is the first, and only detective in the Acapulco police force—a position that brings numerous challenges, prejudices and thrilling situations.

“Made in Acapulco” is a collection of five short stories that introduce the reader to Detective Cruz, her workplace and co-workers, as well as to her love interest.

Carmen Amato’s strong development of character and story line are evident in each of these short tales; each leading into and connecting with the next. The last story in this book became the first chapter in her book, “Cliff Diver,” part of the Emilia Cruz Series.

The writing is strong, the characters believable and interesting and the depictions of place and events intriguing.

As a bonus, you will get to read the first two chapters Amato’s political thriller, “The Hidden Light of Mexico City”

I recommend this book as a quick read and introduction into the work of a very talented writer.

[Toni Osborne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a collection of 5 short stories that chronicle Emilia Cruz first experiences as the first and only female detective on the police force. In the 108 pages or so, these snippets of stories take place before the full length novels came our way. “Made in Acapulco” is wonderful introduction to an amazing series.

The stories are well-written and even if short quite captivating. This book not only introduces us to Emilia, it also gives us a bit of her background, her workplace and how she manages to place herself among her colleagues and how she faces the challenges of her job as an investigator.

Although each story maybe brief everything meshes beautifully and flows smoothly. The characterization is believable and Emilia shines in a place ruled by machos…..

I am a fan of this author and I can recommend all of her books.

[Bob · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tying it all together; in the beginning Emilia makes Detective.
The author has presented her protagonist, Emilia Cruz, in a group of short vignettes showing the almost insurmountable difficulties she must overcome in her quest to become a police detective in the Mexican city of Acapulco. The problems ring true and present a harsh picture of life in the fabulous tourist town, This book is the basis upon which the subsequent series is built. Recommended, don't miss it and pick up the other books in this series as Emilia tries to fight the bribery and corruption  both inside and outside the police department.

[annapi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Five short stories about Emilia Cruz, Amato's mystery series featuring Mexico's first female detective. The first shows Emilia's struggle to get her detective badge. The second shows the genesis of Emilia's binder of "Las Perdidas", the cold cases of missing women that Emilia keeps for herself and occasionally investigates when she has time. All the stories predate Cliff Diver, and the last one is the original Emilia Cruz story that was later expanded to become Cliff Diver, book 1 of the series. Great collection.

[JUDITH DICKINSON · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emilia Cruz is the only female detective in her local police force. She has to prove to the men that she is up to the job, their equal. These five short stories follow her challenges. The crimes, the drug gangs, the aggressors, and, not least, the victims. The stories are all individual but lead the reader through Emilia's challenges, her struggles and her successes. She is a strong character, both in her fight for acknowledgement and the way she is drawn by the author.
This is an excellent introduction to Carmen Amato's books and I will definitely be looking out for more.

[Craig Furchtenicht · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading the stories. The characters and settings meshed well and flowed as the plot progressed. The main character, Emilia, is one tough lady. The only detective in a place ruled by chauvinist men. It painted a picture Mexico that everyone has heard of but no one has dared to write about. very insightful. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book, Cliff Diver.

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book consists of several short stories that act as a background to the first novel in the series, "Cliff Diver". I liked them and felt they give a good background to the novel, which I had read previously. Incidentally, part of "Cliff Diver" is in this book and I'd read it before. I really liked "Cliff Diver" and want to read the other novels in this series.

[Laurie Kazmierczak · Rating 5 out of 5]

A prequel to the stories I have already read. I read it to gain insight to the Emilia Cruz character. The stories seem incomplete but they all hold true to the bravery and sensitivities that I enjoy about this Acapulco Detective.

[Ellen White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short stories, giving us the insight behind the Detective. How she became the first Detective there. Then the stories behind her novels.
Good selection, and enjoyable to read

[Bonnye Reed]

author gift 99

[Hw Huyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story, enjoyable reading

Good story, enjoyable reading. A family of sisters, a mother and children trying to make ends meet in a city in Mexico.

[Greg Hickey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating and thrilling collection of short crime stories. Amato captures the obstacles faced by a female detective in a “man’s world” and the unique challenges for police in Mexico without being heavy-handed about these larger issues. While it can be difficult to wrap up an entire mystery in a short story, this collection provides a compelling introduction to Detective Emilia Cruz and her unique circumstances.

[Gary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great introduction to the Emilia Cruz Stories! It really sets the tone for the series. It gives the reader some important background about Emilia, the life she had before joining the police force and what obstacles she had to overcome to get where she is now. It also paints a grim picture of the life of corruption and violence in Mexico. So very sad!!! If I wasn't already a fan of Carmen Amato, I'm sure I would soon become one.

[Sally Dillon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed this series with a few books to go. Thought it was a good time to read the prequel. I have enjoyed seeing the main character struggle to gain respect as the only female detective with the challenges she faces in the police department and with her mother and family. She is a strong female character and the storiesof the cases she encounters.

[E.R. Yatscoff · Rating 4 out of 5]

These are too short for me - good - but too short and left me unsatisfied. I like Amato's novels much better. Det. Cruz is a good protagonist. The best short story in here is the last one. Read my Mexican crime novel: Teeth of the Cocodrillo

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Would have been an excellent read if it hadn't been SPOILED for me by the author's abuse of Almighty GOD's Name viz Christ; “Jesus,”; and His word *Holy*. This is blasphemy and is NEVER acceptable. Minus 1🌟

I'm looking forward to reading future stories - without Blasphemy, please

[Bonnye Reed]

TheEBookCafe

[Adam James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This outstanding freebie is a wonderful introduction to Carmen Amato's compelling main character.

Next I'm reading The Cliff. And Carmen Amato has plenty more for you, too!

[John Roach, · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite a good read

[Christmas Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five short stories that have you crying...more, more, more. These may be fiction but they hold a
bucket of truth. Highly Recommended.

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

I haven’t read any of her stories before. They were okay. Not sure if they were enough to make me want to read any more or not.

[Russ Leavitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was okay for a novella. I'll read the next book of this series to see if it gets better.

[Theresa Sivelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this okay, but would have liked it better if at least one of the situations went thru to a conclusion. Oh well, perhaps they do in the next book.

[Mona Grant-Holmes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked it