This excerpt from "Thicker Than Blood" by Penny Rudolph is a mystery novel centered around Rachel Chavez, a parking garage owner in Los Angeles. The narrative follows Rachel as she becomes entangled in a series of suspicious deaths, beginning with the murder of Jason Karl, a client whose car Rachel serviced. As she investigates, Rachel uncovers a conspiracy involving a water quality lab, illegal drug manufacturing, and environmental issues, leading her to confront dangerous individuals like Harry Hunsinger and Alexandra Miller, who are willing to kill to protect their secrets. Throughout the story, Rachel navigates personal challenges, including her father's gambling addiction and her own past struggles, relying on a small circle of allies like Hank Sullivan and Goldie to help her piece together the truth.