Lis Wiehl with
Sebastian Stuart
(Thomas Nelson)
ISBN: 978-0718037673
January 2016/352 pages/Hardcover/$26.99
What if it turns out that the newsmakers are actually making the news happen?
Television reporter Erica Sparks has just landed her dream job at Global News Network. Beautiful, talented, and ambitious, Erica grew up dirt poor, worked her way through Yale, and is carrying a terrible secret. She moves to Manhattan to join GNN, leaving Jenny, her adored 7-year-old daughter, in the custody of her ex-husband. Erica’s producer at the network, Greg Underwood, is handsome and compelling. Scarred by her divorce, Erica is wary of romance, but there’s no denying the mutual attraction.
On one of her first assignments, Erica witnesses a horrific Staten Island ferry crash. Then she lands a coveted interview with presumptive presidential nominee Kay Barrish. During the interview Barrish collapses. Erica valiantly tries to save her with CPR. The footage rivets the world—GNN’s ratings soar and Erica is now a household name.
But she’s troubled. What a strange coincidence that both events should happen on her watch. It’s almost as if they were engineered. Is that possible?
Erica’s relentless pursuit of the truth puts her life and that of her daughter in danger. Her investigation leads her into the heart of darkness—where the future of our democracy is at stake.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
MY THOUGHTS
I have loved Lis Wiehl's previous books and was excited to have the chance to review her latest. While there is much to like about this novel, I was a bit disappointed. I can only suspect the reason is the switch in collaborators, from April Henry to Sebastian Stuart. The writing isn't as tight as her other suspense novels, and the ending is a totally predictable. In fact, some blatant clues and foreshadowing appeared fairly early in the story. Additionally, at least one thread was randomly woven in but not followed through consistently. As far as I'm concerned, it could have been left out completely as one scene stretched the limits of what I expect from a Christian novel. (Although I'm not sure I would really label this a Christian novel aside from the publisher.) I did like the two main characters, Erika and Greg; that and my previous positive experience with Wiehl's books prompted me to finish the book. You may have a different view, however, so check it out for yourself!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Harper Collins/Thomas Nelson for a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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1 comment:
Good analysis. I haven't read any of her books but am always looking for new writers. Thanks
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