Newsmakers - A Review

Newsmakers

by

Lis Wiehl

A Review

“Newsmakers” is a political thriller, stolen from the front pages of a 21st century newspaper - perhaps it opens up a new genre of literature: “journalistic terrorism.”

As in the past, Lis Wiehl has created a carefully paced story that keeps the reader engaged and wanting more. It seems like Erica Sparks is in the right place at the right time for two, too many, news stories. She was there when the ferry crashed; she was there when Kay Barrish, California politician considering a run for the Presidency, dies in Erica’s arms. As a friend says, “It was awful coincidenky (sic) …”

It would take Erica, her co-workers at GNN, the new Global News Network, police working on both the East and West Coasts, and a bit of luck to find the connecting link. A link that could have national and international implications if not discovered.  

Though coming from a Christian publisher, the book is not overtly religious and should appeal to a large number of readers - those who like cozy mysteries, those who like a hint of romance, conspiracy theorists, and news junkies.

The pieces come together in an epilogue. An epilogue that ends with a call from the President of the United States asking for Erica Sparks help ...

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This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review.  The opinions expressed are my own.

Cold Shot - A Review

Cold Shot

by

Dani Pettrey

A Review

The Civil War battles at Gettysburg had ended a long time ago. And Finley Scott, forensic anthropologist, was present to recover some of its lost history. But what should have been a long buried body was soon understood to have been buried just a few months ago. And it would take Ms. Scott’s team and Chief Ranger Griffin McCray, along with his friends, to discover who put it there.

Sadly, the book is advertised as a “romantic suspense” - not untrue, but that word “romantic” may drive some who would like the book away. Similarly, the cover shot of a lonely Ranger, underwrites the “romantic”. I would argue that the book is a thriller first and foremost. Yes, it has a hint of romance, but placing the book’s focus at this point will, again, drive away some who might enjoy the book.

If I had one word to describe this book, it would be “secrets”: each of the characters carries a load that they would like to hide but that limit their ability to do their work at their best. But the secret would come out and the jobs would get done. And the evidence would lead to the truth.

I appreciated the way the author weaved spiritual truth into the story - not with heavy scripture, but with the characters living out their faith. Faith is not applied in a heavy handed manner, but becomes a natural part of the story as it evolves over the character’s lives.

Recommended for believers of all stripes, the book was well worth the time I spent between its pages.

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This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review.  The opinions expressed are my own.