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We’ve all been treated to local newscasts that begin with the latest homicide, the most recent political scandal, or the worst traffic accident. The old adage “If it bleeds, it leads” seems to be standard operating procedure. That approach has been mined for literary pay dirt in Liebengood’s novel of shady deals, shoddy ethics, and criminal shenanigans run amuck in Sacramento, California.
Kimberly is a smart and sexy news reporter, laser focused on jet propelling her career. She comes up with the idea of using drones at the scene of news reports to get unique pictures and perspectives. The technique is indeed a game-changer but it’s still not enough to assuage her insatiable ambition. So when the local hunk of a sheriff offers to provide exclusive info that will enable her always to be first on the scene of breaking news stories, she can’t say no—even though the quid pro quo is ongoing trysts. This sex-for-scoops deal works well for both parties until the sheriff’s wife turns up murdered. He’s the prime suspect, Kimberly’s his alibi, and exposure of their arrangement is about to blow the lid off a crock pot of corruption.
Liebengood’s characters are sharply drawn and readily recognizable. His years of sports reporting are put to good use as he cracks and quips his way through a multi-layered plot that’s as entertaining as it is involving. On the way to its climax, the mayhem mounts and you’re never quite sure who is going to do what to whom. Whether you like your reading material with wine and cheese or beer and pretzels, chances are you’ll find this book good company.