A Heritage of Death

A baby left on her doorstep.

A woman tormented by visions.

A killer who's already claimed one life—and wants more.

Cici Gurule longs for serenity. But when a child appears at her door and blood-soaked dreams invade her sleep, she's pulled into a chilling mystery concealed beneath Santa Fe's streets.

With Detective Sam Chastain at her side and her twin's voice guiding her, Cici races to uncover a ruthless killer's identity before they strike again. To protect the child—and herself—she must risk everything.

A riveting blend of spiritual suspense and emotional depth, A Heritage of Death will grip fans of Tana French, Louise Penny, and Nevada Barr until the final page.

TIMELESS PRAISE FOR J.J. Cagney

"A wholly absorbing gumshoe tale elevated by an extraordinary detective." —Kirkus Reviews

"Vivid, alluring, and heart‑wrenching… every reason I love mystery." —New York Times Bestseller Darynda Jones

"Written in a clear, distinct style, Padgett uses the prose to elicit tension and emotion and creates a tense, fast-paced story." —The BookLife Prize

"An edge-of-my-seat thrill ride that kept me guessing all the way through." — USA Today Bestseller Allyson Lindt

"The prose is…sublimely concise." —Kirkus Reviews

"I'm pretty giddy that this will be a series! It's packed with a good mystery and the cat and mouse makes it hard to put down." —Next Book Review

"An exhilarating entry in a thoroughly enjoyable series." —Kirkus Reviews