The Toughest Test: A Marla Whitman Novel

In the heart of 1970s Chicago, a city teeming with both ambition and decay, Detective Marla Whitman begins her career within the Chicago Police Department. The year 1977 presents a unique challenge; a city grappling with a burgeoning cocaine epidemic and a web of political corruption that reaches the highest echelons of power. Marla, a young woman with steely determination, carries the legacy of her father, retaining her maiden name despite the pressures of her demanding career and its impact on her marriage. She's a force to be reckoned with, a petite blonde who wouldn't be mistaken for a damsel in distress. She's seen the ugly side of the law, having served six years as a patrolwoman on the streets before taking on a detective's role. This novel delves deep into Marla's world, exposing the complexities of her investigations, her relentless pursuit of justice, and the moral ambiguities she faces in a system riddled with flaws. The story unfolds not only as a gripping police procedural but as a character-driven narrative, exploring Marla's internal struggles as she navigates a world of hardened criminals, political maneuvering, and the constant threat of violence. The backdrop of 1970s Chicago, with its distinctive atmosphere and historical context, further enhances the narrative, providing a rich and compelling setting for Marla's journey. It's a year of fire, a crucible that will forge her into the detective she is destined to become. Join Marla as she confronts not only the criminals of Chicago but also the demons that lurk within the gilded cage of the city itself, a cage from which few escape unscathed.