What do you think?
Rate this book
Clare Carlson #6
Broadcast Blues
Wendy Kyle took secrets to her grave—now, Clare Carlson is digging them up
New York City has no shortage of crime, making for a busy schedule for TV newswoman Clare Carlson. But not all crimes are created equal, and when an explosive planted in a car detonates and kills a woman, Clare knows it’ll be a huge story for her.
But it’s not only about the story—Clare also wants justice for the victim, Wendy Kyle. Wendy had sparked controversy as an NYPD officer, ultimately getting kicked off the force after making sexual harassment allegations and getting into a physical altercation with her boss. Then, she started a private investigations business, catering to women who suspected their husbands of cheating. Undoubtedly, Wendy had angered many people with her work, so the list of her suspected murderers is seemingly endless.
Despite the daunting investigation, Clare dives in headfirst. As she digs deeper, she attracts the attention of many rich and powerful people who will stop at nothing to keep her from breaking the truth about the death of Wendy Kyle—and exposing their personal secrets that Wendy took to her grave.
Perfect for fans of Sue Grafton and J. D. Robb
While all of the novels in the Clare Carlson Mystery Series stand on their own and can be read in any order, the publication sequence
Yesterday’s News
Below the Fold
The Last Scoop
Beyond the Headlines
It’s News to Me
Broadcast Blues
New York City has no shortage of crime, making for a busy schedule for TV newswoman Clare Carlson. But not all crimes are created equal, and when an explosive planted in a car detonates and kills a woman, Clare knows it’ll be a huge story for her.
But it’s not only about the story—Clare also wants justice for the victim, Wendy Kyle. Wendy had sparked controversy as an NYPD officer, ultimately getting kicked off the force after making sexual harassment allegations and getting into a physical altercation with her boss. Then, she started a private investigations business, catering to women who suspected their husbands of cheating. Undoubtedly, Wendy had angered many people with her work, so the list of her suspected murderers is seemingly endless.
Despite the daunting investigation, Clare dives in headfirst. As she digs deeper, she attracts the attention of many rich and powerful people who will stop at nothing to keep her from breaking the truth about the death of Wendy Kyle—and exposing their personal secrets that Wendy took to her grave.
Perfect for fans of Sue Grafton and J. D. Robb
While all of the novels in the Clare Carlson Mystery Series stand on their own and can be read in any order, the publication sequence
Yesterday’s News
Below the Fold
The Last Scoop
Beyond the Headlines
It’s News to Me
Broadcast Blues
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 2, 2024
22 people are currently reading
3347 people want to read
About the author
R.G. Belsky
14 books505 followersCo-author with Bonnie Traymore of Swipe (2025);Author of Broadcast Blues (Oceanview - 2024); It's News to Me (Oceanview - 2022); Beyond The Headlines (Oceanview 2021); The Last Scoop (Oceanview-2020) Below The Fold (Oceanview - 2019) Yesterday's News (Oceanview - 2018) Blonde Ice (Atria - 2016; Shooting for the Stars (2015); and The Kennedy Connection (2014).
Also writes thrillers under the pen name of Dana Perry.
Former Managing Editor of NBCNews.com
Worked as Managing Editor of NY Daily News; News Editor of Star magazine; Metropolitan Editor of NY Post.
Author of numerous other mystery novels including Loverboy and Playing Dead.
Contributing Writer for The Big Thrill magazine and BookTrib.
Also writes thrillers under the pen name of Dana Perry.
Former Managing Editor of NBCNews.com
Worked as Managing Editor of NY Daily News; News Editor of Star magazine; Metropolitan Editor of NY Post.
Author of numerous other mystery novels including Loverboy and Playing Dead.
Contributing Writer for The Big Thrill magazine and BookTrib.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
January 3, 2024
Clare Carlson is the news director and star reporter at New York City’s Channel 10. She’s broken a good number of big stories over the years, but she’s obsessed with her upcoming 50th birthday. She has three ex-husbands, and she seems to have pretty good relationships with them, which I found interesting. In this book, Clare is covering the death by car bomb of a former NYPD officer turned private investigator, Wendy Kyle. Wendy has made quite a few enemies over the years, first on the police force and then as a result of her investigations, which focused on cheating husbands.
Although this is the sixth book in the Clare Carlson series, this was the first one I’ve read and I had no trouble jumping right in to this series. There are a good number of references to previous events, but I didn’t feel lost at any time.
There is a lot of humor along the way in this mystery/thriller, as the story is narrated by Clare. The author has worked on New York City newspapers as well as network news programs, so the scenes taking place at Channel 10 had a definite ring of truth to them. The endless search for the next big story is a way of life. As is the sale of media to big bottom-line-conscious conglomerates, which also features in the story.
There are a couple of big twists near the end of the book, which completely changed who I thought was responsible.
Thank you to NetGalley and Oceanview Publishing for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Although this is the sixth book in the Clare Carlson series, this was the first one I’ve read and I had no trouble jumping right in to this series. There are a good number of references to previous events, but I didn’t feel lost at any time.
There is a lot of humor along the way in this mystery/thriller, as the story is narrated by Clare. The author has worked on New York City newspapers as well as network news programs, so the scenes taking place at Channel 10 had a definite ring of truth to them. The endless search for the next big story is a way of life. As is the sale of media to big bottom-line-conscious conglomerates, which also features in the story.
There are a couple of big twists near the end of the book, which completely changed who I thought was responsible.
Thank you to NetGalley and Oceanview Publishing for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
dnf
July 31, 2025This is a Mystery, and this is the sixth book in the Clare Carlson series. I ended up DNFing this book around 30% because I just could not get into the story, and I found myself not caring about the characters. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
January 12, 2024
Broadcast Blues is the sixth installment of the Clare Carlson series. But it is possible to read it as a standalone novel.
I thoroughly enjoyed this whodunit from a journalist’s point of view. It was different from the standard detective angle and the pacing was faster than a cozy mystery.
The main character, Clare Carlson, is the News Director at Channel 10 News. And she’s just a spitfire of a character. Her unrelenting quest for justice really shines and not only was she steadfast in her investigations, she had the personality to match — full of spunk and snark. I loved her wry sense of humor and she had a supporting cast and crew to complement her in every way. What’s surprising is that the author notes that her characters were based on real-life people that she worked with as a journalist. That tidbit just added a different dimension to an already fully developed cast of characters.
The plot contains numerous twists which kept me guessing until the end. But it wasn’t that surprising once all the evidence was gathered and laid out in a methodical manner.
Overall, Broadcast Blues was an enjoyable, suspenseful, and entertaining read. I will certainly want to read more from this author. Five stars.
I was invited to read a DRC from Oceanview Publishing through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
I thoroughly enjoyed this whodunit from a journalist’s point of view. It was different from the standard detective angle and the pacing was faster than a cozy mystery.
The main character, Clare Carlson, is the News Director at Channel 10 News. And she’s just a spitfire of a character. Her unrelenting quest for justice really shines and not only was she steadfast in her investigations, she had the personality to match — full of spunk and snark. I loved her wry sense of humor and she had a supporting cast and crew to complement her in every way. What’s surprising is that the author notes that her characters were based on real-life people that she worked with as a journalist. That tidbit just added a different dimension to an already fully developed cast of characters.
The plot contains numerous twists which kept me guessing until the end. But it wasn’t that surprising once all the evidence was gathered and laid out in a methodical manner.
Overall, Broadcast Blues was an enjoyable, suspenseful, and entertaining read. I will certainly want to read more from this author. Five stars.
I was invited to read a DRC from Oceanview Publishing through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
January 16, 2024
I was very quickly pulled into the story and was all into it until the end. It is full of twists and turns that kept me interested, trying to find the clues along the story... This is my first book by this author and the first of the series that I've read, but I didn't feel that I was losing something of the story since it can be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #OceanviewPublishing and the author #RGBelsky for my ARC of #BroadcastBlues
I would like to thank #NetGalley #OceanviewPublishing and the author #RGBelsky for my ARC of #BroadcastBlues
December 19, 2023
Clare Carlson #6
New York City has no shortage of crime, making for a busy schedule for TV newswoman Clare Carlson. But bot all enemies are created equal, and when an explosive planted in a car detonates and kills a woman, Clare knows it will be a huge story for her. But it's not only about the story - Clare also wants justice for the victim, Wendy Kyle. Wendy had sparked controversy as an NYPD officer, ultimately getting into a physical altercation with her boss. Then she started a private investigation business, catering to women who suspected their husbands of cheating. Undoubtedly, Wendy had angered many people with her work, so the list of her suspected murderers is seemingly endless.
Filled with twists, turns, and red herrings, I was quickly pulled into this story. There are clues to find along the way and a great twist to round things off. The characters are well-developed. The more Clare investigates the death of Wendy Kyle, the more things don't add up. This is the first book in the series that I've read, but it does read well as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #OceanviewPublishing and the author #RGBelsky for my ARC of #BroadcastBlues in exchange for an honest review.
New York City has no shortage of crime, making for a busy schedule for TV newswoman Clare Carlson. But bot all enemies are created equal, and when an explosive planted in a car detonates and kills a woman, Clare knows it will be a huge story for her. But it's not only about the story - Clare also wants justice for the victim, Wendy Kyle. Wendy had sparked controversy as an NYPD officer, ultimately getting into a physical altercation with her boss. Then she started a private investigation business, catering to women who suspected their husbands of cheating. Undoubtedly, Wendy had angered many people with her work, so the list of her suspected murderers is seemingly endless.
Filled with twists, turns, and red herrings, I was quickly pulled into this story. There are clues to find along the way and a great twist to round things off. The characters are well-developed. The more Clare investigates the death of Wendy Kyle, the more things don't add up. This is the first book in the series that I've read, but it does read well as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #OceanviewPublishing and the author #RGBelsky for my ARC of #BroadcastBlues in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2024
I received a complimentary electronic ARC of this excellent novel from Netgalley via publisher Oceanview Publishing and the author, R. G. Belsky. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. I have read Broadcast Blues of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. I am pleased to recommend R. G. Belsky to friends and family. I found the protagonists appealing and the story intriguing.
This is the sixth in a series set in NYC, of which I have read only the fifth and sixth. I will backtrack, however, as the writing method and characters appealed to me. Clare Carlson is a go-getter newswoman with good instincts and moral turpitude. I think you will enjoy her, as well.
Pub date Jan 2, 2024
REVIEWED on January 2, 2024, at Goodreads, Netgalley, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, BookBub, and Kobo.
This is the sixth in a series set in NYC, of which I have read only the fifth and sixth. I will backtrack, however, as the writing method and characters appealed to me. Clare Carlson is a go-getter newswoman with good instincts and moral turpitude. I think you will enjoy her, as well.
Pub date Jan 2, 2024
REVIEWED on January 2, 2024, at Goodreads, Netgalley, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, BookBub, and Kobo.
December 21, 2023
Having read four other books in this series - this is the sixth - I almost feel like New York's Channel 10 News Director Clare Carlson is an old friend. It helps, I suppose, that many of my working years were in journalism also, albeit print and not broadcast. Despite her sometimes (make that frequent) abrasive manner, I've worked with a few who probably could eat her for lunch.
When private eye Wendy Kyle gets blown up along with her car, Clare smells a big story. Wendy, it seems, specialized in nailing cheating husbands and made a comfortable living plying her trade. Clare needs that big story because she's always at odds with her boss, the station is about to get new owners, her daughter Emily is in the midst of a personal crisis and - horror of horrors - she's about to turn 50 years old. Could the situation be any more dire?
The dead woman once was an NYPD officer, but run-ins with the powers-that-be forced her to quit. After a little digging, Clare finds a connection to a mega-wealthy billionaire who has a woman in every port, so to speak - and then to an up-and-coming politician who has ties to the NYPD but an up-to-now squeaky clean image. Clare's investigation brings her in contact with former husbands - she's had three so far - and sends her down some paths that twist and turn and lead nowhere but are intriguing to explore and others that are a clear and present danger.
The ending - which seemed a little out of character (and of which I'm not a huge fan, BTW) - could lead to an interesting next installment - and for sure, I'm looking forward to it. Meantime, I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to read and review a pre-release copy of this one. Well done once again!
When private eye Wendy Kyle gets blown up along with her car, Clare smells a big story. Wendy, it seems, specialized in nailing cheating husbands and made a comfortable living plying her trade. Clare needs that big story because she's always at odds with her boss, the station is about to get new owners, her daughter Emily is in the midst of a personal crisis and - horror of horrors - she's about to turn 50 years old. Could the situation be any more dire?
The dead woman once was an NYPD officer, but run-ins with the powers-that-be forced her to quit. After a little digging, Clare finds a connection to a mega-wealthy billionaire who has a woman in every port, so to speak - and then to an up-and-coming politician who has ties to the NYPD but an up-to-now squeaky clean image. Clare's investigation brings her in contact with former husbands - she's had three so far - and sends her down some paths that twist and turn and lead nowhere but are intriguing to explore and others that are a clear and present danger.
The ending - which seemed a little out of character (and of which I'm not a huge fan, BTW) - could lead to an interesting next installment - and for sure, I'm looking forward to it. Meantime, I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to read and review a pre-release copy of this one. Well done once again!
February 25, 2025
I would like to thank Oceanview Publishing and R.G. Belsky for granting me a digital copy of this book.
2,5 ⭐ - I just couldn't get into this book, it might have to do with the fact that this is the sixth book in the Clare Carlson series.
While the storyline is easy to follow and could be read as a standalone, I would definitely recommend reading the previous books in the series to get to know Clare Carlson better.
2,5 ⭐ - I just couldn't get into this book, it might have to do with the fact that this is the sixth book in the Clare Carlson series.
While the storyline is easy to follow and could be read as a standalone, I would definitely recommend reading the previous books in the series to get to know Clare Carlson better.
September 4, 2023
Big thanks to both Oceanview Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Broadcast Blues, by R. G. Belsky. This is book #6 in the Clare Carlson series and is expected to be published on January 2, 2024.
Wendy Kyle took secrets to her grave—now, Clare Carlson is digging them up.
(Who doesn't love a great tagline??)
Clare Carlson is the news director at Ch. 10 News and New York City is her stomping ground. She's as smart as she is feisty! This time around Clare is covering the murder of a former NYPD officer. Wendy Kyle had moved on to become a private investigator ... right up until she was killed by a bomb placed in her car. Clare has tenaciously attached herself to the case.
I've been a fan of this series since discovering book #3: The Last Scoop. Clare's personal life felt a wee bit less of a train wreck in Broadcast Blues, which is a good thing. The twists and turns of the case definitely kept me on my toes! It seemed like there was less humor in this one but the case was so intriguing that it made up for it!
Wendy Kyle took secrets to her grave—now, Clare Carlson is digging them up.
(Who doesn't love a great tagline??)
Clare Carlson is the news director at Ch. 10 News and New York City is her stomping ground. She's as smart as she is feisty! This time around Clare is covering the murder of a former NYPD officer. Wendy Kyle had moved on to become a private investigator ... right up until she was killed by a bomb placed in her car. Clare has tenaciously attached herself to the case.
I've been a fan of this series since discovering book #3: The Last Scoop. Clare's personal life felt a wee bit less of a train wreck in Broadcast Blues, which is a good thing. The twists and turns of the case definitely kept me on my toes! It seemed like there was less humor in this one but the case was so intriguing that it made up for it!
June 27, 2023
Broadcast Blues" is the first Clare Carlson book I have read. I like that it can standalone or read as part of the series.
The plot of this book grabbed me from the beginning as it gives readers a peek into the newsroom as Clare searches for her next big story, unraveling the web little by little. Belsky gives readers small clues along the way but not enough to take away from the big twists at the end that keep you turning the pages.
While Clare does excellent work in her job, I found myself questioning her integrity in her personal life. I respected how the author wrapped up that aspect of the story.
If you enjoy mysteries & thrillers, grab a copy of "Broadcast Blues". Also, this book does include Book Club Discussion Questions at the end which is a great addition! I wish more did this.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a digital copy of this book.
The plot of this book grabbed me from the beginning as it gives readers a peek into the newsroom as Clare searches for her next big story, unraveling the web little by little. Belsky gives readers small clues along the way but not enough to take away from the big twists at the end that keep you turning the pages.
While Clare does excellent work in her job, I found myself questioning her integrity in her personal life. I respected how the author wrapped up that aspect of the story.
If you enjoy mysteries & thrillers, grab a copy of "Broadcast Blues". Also, this book does include Book Club Discussion Questions at the end which is a great addition! I wish more did this.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a digital copy of this book.
January 2, 2024
Broadcast blues
Can you predict your death? Can you create situations that would cause someone off you? Just read the first page of this novel and the only diary page of PI Wendy Kyle and enter the world of the former police officer whose reputation was not exactly exemplary. Wendy was quick on the draw, never hesitated to use force and make allegations of sexual allegations and got into a physical confrontation with her boss. Just some of what she was capable of plus opening her own PI firm and targeted helping women whose husbands cheated on them. The first page shared on page one sets the stage for what is to come and as you read the prologue you get a little taste of Wendy Kyles's character traits as the last paragraph on page one of the prologue states: here's the bottom line for me: if I don't succeed in what I'm about to do in the Ronald Bannister case, well then someone must know the truth about what happened to me. And that it was all lies- all of the damn lies told that we're the death of me. This statement is the driving force that sends our star reporter after a story that will rock the news works as the car bomb that someone planted in the door of Wendy's car explodes killing her. Wendy was complex, controversial, and hard-boiled as her goal was to get justice for the women she represented, the final case of the woman who really hired her to catch her husband in the act, as Clare Carlson our no holds barred reporter takes aim at those who Wendy targeted for sexual harassment, physical allegations and hoping to get the list of Wendy clients from her male sources. But first dealing with Susan Endicott her new boss, her ex-husband Sam, and learning something interesting about him and why he's not investigating Wendy's murder.
Things on channel 10 heat up when the new owners are on the horizon, Clare keeps hoping to get the client list, but stories are not coming in from her team and an SOS from her daughter adds more tension to the plot.
The novel has several themes: Wendy as a murderer, her client list, Ronald because he was listed in the diary, Sam her ex and his wife Deborah, her old boss plus the interoffice politics and the security guard posing as a guard.
As Clare learns more about Wendy and by chance meets Alex her partner, and wonders what she's hiding. Secrets, lies, deceptions, and greed if not more will be unraveled if Clare gets the scoop, but another murder takes the spotlight.
Things heat up when the police say that Wendy's ex-husband was the killer, and they share his two sons before they claim he killed himself. The new owners of channel 10 have banned Clare from doing stories and going on the air. Journalism takes a back seat and her role as news director does not allow her to broadcast or find Wendy's killer, but you know Clare and guilt and determination win out even if she might get fired. Plus, we meet Lucy her daughter who's going through her own crisis and needs direction, but can Clare give her one?
But Clare decided to strike back at Owen Lasker who made it a point to let her know when the sale goes through she might be too. Going to Kaiser meant taking a bold chance but getting the story told, finding Wendy's killer, and hoping to break it open big, her goal. But first information about Jamie Ortiz running for governor and his connection to Ronald Bannister but with the backing of her staff she just might win. Susan Endicott made a huge mistake by backstabbing her.
It gets more embroiled when Clare learns about the case Wendy was working on , the death of Troy Spencer an apparent suicide but was it? After speaking with Gretchen Grimsditch and learning more about the physical bruises and the drugs and pills Troy used and we're seen in her, was it planned, and staged and why did Jamie Ortiz sign off on the suicide? What is his connection to Bannister? It gets more dangerous as Clare targets Ortiz and Bannister but first, a homeless woman named Reby who was close to Wendy and who Wendy helped with food, clothing, and more. Yet Reby preferred the streets. Her favorite hacker Todd has information about Wendy and a secret file plus the name of the dog called security guard. But why go back to Warren Magnuson? A press conference that rattled Ortiz and a bluff that might put Clare in his path as she targets Bannister next.
Things get tense as Clare tries to link it all together, but someone decided to eliminate another player. Someone knew his secrets but how was this new murder and Wendy's connected? Did the same person kill both and why?
Author RG Belsky ties up all the loose ends but first unravels the murderer of Troy Spencer, the red-headed woman he had at his hotel who got pushed off the subway platform, and Bannister wanting to buy Channel 10, and Steven Healy, Wendy's partner why did he want to work with Clare and who was the missing link?
A standoff, an ending you won't see coming as Clare fights for her life, someone appears out if nowhere, who killed Troy, who coveted it up? Who killed Bannister: only author RG Belsky could pull off a shocking, surprise ending that just might change it all for Clare. Who lives, who dies and who will continue to be part of the Broadcast Blues? Clare is tough but in the end, her final choice will surprise you.
Fran Lewis just reviews
Can you predict your death? Can you create situations that would cause someone off you? Just read the first page of this novel and the only diary page of PI Wendy Kyle and enter the world of the former police officer whose reputation was not exactly exemplary. Wendy was quick on the draw, never hesitated to use force and make allegations of sexual allegations and got into a physical confrontation with her boss. Just some of what she was capable of plus opening her own PI firm and targeted helping women whose husbands cheated on them. The first page shared on page one sets the stage for what is to come and as you read the prologue you get a little taste of Wendy Kyles's character traits as the last paragraph on page one of the prologue states: here's the bottom line for me: if I don't succeed in what I'm about to do in the Ronald Bannister case, well then someone must know the truth about what happened to me. And that it was all lies- all of the damn lies told that we're the death of me. This statement is the driving force that sends our star reporter after a story that will rock the news works as the car bomb that someone planted in the door of Wendy's car explodes killing her. Wendy was complex, controversial, and hard-boiled as her goal was to get justice for the women she represented, the final case of the woman who really hired her to catch her husband in the act, as Clare Carlson our no holds barred reporter takes aim at those who Wendy targeted for sexual harassment, physical allegations and hoping to get the list of Wendy clients from her male sources. But first dealing with Susan Endicott her new boss, her ex-husband Sam, and learning something interesting about him and why he's not investigating Wendy's murder.
Things on channel 10 heat up when the new owners are on the horizon, Clare keeps hoping to get the client list, but stories are not coming in from her team and an SOS from her daughter adds more tension to the plot.
The novel has several themes: Wendy as a murderer, her client list, Ronald because he was listed in the diary, Sam her ex and his wife Deborah, her old boss plus the interoffice politics and the security guard posing as a guard.
As Clare learns more about Wendy and by chance meets Alex her partner, and wonders what she's hiding. Secrets, lies, deceptions, and greed if not more will be unraveled if Clare gets the scoop, but another murder takes the spotlight.
Things heat up when the police say that Wendy's ex-husband was the killer, and they share his two sons before they claim he killed himself. The new owners of channel 10 have banned Clare from doing stories and going on the air. Journalism takes a back seat and her role as news director does not allow her to broadcast or find Wendy's killer, but you know Clare and guilt and determination win out even if she might get fired. Plus, we meet Lucy her daughter who's going through her own crisis and needs direction, but can Clare give her one?
But Clare decided to strike back at Owen Lasker who made it a point to let her know when the sale goes through she might be too. Going to Kaiser meant taking a bold chance but getting the story told, finding Wendy's killer, and hoping to break it open big, her goal. But first information about Jamie Ortiz running for governor and his connection to Ronald Bannister but with the backing of her staff she just might win. Susan Endicott made a huge mistake by backstabbing her.
It gets more embroiled when Clare learns about the case Wendy was working on , the death of Troy Spencer an apparent suicide but was it? After speaking with Gretchen Grimsditch and learning more about the physical bruises and the drugs and pills Troy used and we're seen in her, was it planned, and staged and why did Jamie Ortiz sign off on the suicide? What is his connection to Bannister? It gets more dangerous as Clare targets Ortiz and Bannister but first, a homeless woman named Reby who was close to Wendy and who Wendy helped with food, clothing, and more. Yet Reby preferred the streets. Her favorite hacker Todd has information about Wendy and a secret file plus the name of the dog called security guard. But why go back to Warren Magnuson? A press conference that rattled Ortiz and a bluff that might put Clare in his path as she targets Bannister next.
Things get tense as Clare tries to link it all together, but someone decided to eliminate another player. Someone knew his secrets but how was this new murder and Wendy's connected? Did the same person kill both and why?
Author RG Belsky ties up all the loose ends but first unravels the murderer of Troy Spencer, the red-headed woman he had at his hotel who got pushed off the subway platform, and Bannister wanting to buy Channel 10, and Steven Healy, Wendy's partner why did he want to work with Clare and who was the missing link?
A standoff, an ending you won't see coming as Clare fights for her life, someone appears out if nowhere, who killed Troy, who coveted it up? Who killed Bannister: only author RG Belsky could pull off a shocking, surprise ending that just might change it all for Clare. Who lives, who dies and who will continue to be part of the Broadcast Blues? Clare is tough but in the end, her final choice will surprise you.
Fran Lewis just reviews
October 12, 2023
Lots of red herrings that keep you fixed to read more, love the main character and the way she goes about things make her very real. Interesting story with surprises that I was not expecting.
October 24, 2024
When a private investigator and former police officer is murdered, her clients are considered suspects, while police are quick to trot out platitudes and generic laudatory statements about an officer with a fractious past with the force. The dead PI was known to take on high-profile cases involving cheating spouses of New York City's wealthy, while police officers she'd tussled with moved up through the ranks.
Investigative TV journalist and news director Clare Carlson sees this as a fantastic story and knows that her contact in the police (her former husband) and in the FBI (a former lover) can get her great inside information to put her, her story, and her news station at the forefront. This is particularly important considering the owner of the news station has brought in a business manager whom Clare butts heads with, and he has also put the station up for sale.
Clare is feeling vulnerable as her 50th birthday is fast coming up, and she could be out of a job once a buyer is found; she’s got a tendency to say what she feels, which can be received poorly, as with Susan the station’s business manager.
Despite her worries, Clare uses her contacts, and follows down anything that might flesh out what she knows about the dead woman and the one clue she left behind, pointing to one of New York City’s ultra wealthy residents. Her snooping takes her to police brass, who tell her that the dead woman was brave and a good officer. And she had a temper and a string of flags in her HR file from altercations, and even an attack, with some of the higher ups, painting a contradictory picture of the woman, but also intriguing Clare. More leads begin hinting at links to an upcoming gubernatorial election and corruption in the police, which just makes the whole investigation juicier and likely to be more shocking and attractive to viewers.
I have never read any of the previous Clare Carlson stories, but I did not feel that I was at a loss while reading this sixth instalment. Author R.G. Belsky filled in any gaps in Clare 's history when necessary, and she’s sufficiently well characterized for me to understand how driven she is as a investigative reporter, and how critical breaking stories is to her professionally and personally.
She’s at a crux in her life, and understands that she’s placed personal relationships second to her work. This leads her to some interesting reflections on her life, even while she is following leads.
I enjoyed this fast-paced story, and appreciated the insight the author provided into the work that goes into producing a daily news program and how changing tastes, technology and public expectations have also skewed reporting into sometimes more sensational directions.
I liked the many twists and suspects in this story, and it made for a suspense-filled and entertaining story.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Oceanview Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Investigative TV journalist and news director Clare Carlson sees this as a fantastic story and knows that her contact in the police (her former husband) and in the FBI (a former lover) can get her great inside information to put her, her story, and her news station at the forefront. This is particularly important considering the owner of the news station has brought in a business manager whom Clare butts heads with, and he has also put the station up for sale.
Clare is feeling vulnerable as her 50th birthday is fast coming up, and she could be out of a job once a buyer is found; she’s got a tendency to say what she feels, which can be received poorly, as with Susan the station’s business manager.
Despite her worries, Clare uses her contacts, and follows down anything that might flesh out what she knows about the dead woman and the one clue she left behind, pointing to one of New York City’s ultra wealthy residents. Her snooping takes her to police brass, who tell her that the dead woman was brave and a good officer. And she had a temper and a string of flags in her HR file from altercations, and even an attack, with some of the higher ups, painting a contradictory picture of the woman, but also intriguing Clare. More leads begin hinting at links to an upcoming gubernatorial election and corruption in the police, which just makes the whole investigation juicier and likely to be more shocking and attractive to viewers.
I have never read any of the previous Clare Carlson stories, but I did not feel that I was at a loss while reading this sixth instalment. Author R.G. Belsky filled in any gaps in Clare 's history when necessary, and she’s sufficiently well characterized for me to understand how driven she is as a investigative reporter, and how critical breaking stories is to her professionally and personally.
She’s at a crux in her life, and understands that she’s placed personal relationships second to her work. This leads her to some interesting reflections on her life, even while she is following leads.
I enjoyed this fast-paced story, and appreciated the insight the author provided into the work that goes into producing a daily news program and how changing tastes, technology and public expectations have also skewed reporting into sometimes more sensational directions.
I liked the many twists and suspects in this story, and it made for a suspense-filled and entertaining story.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Oceanview Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my review.
March 3, 2024
I found the story gripping and fast paced. Clare Carlson was an engaging character that I was rooting for from the beginning. All happening in the city that never sleeps, this was an action packed story that I have recommended to all of my reader friends.
December 1, 2023
In the sixth Clare Carlson mystery, Clare is worrying about turning fifty, dealing with the potential sale of the television station where she works, and dealing with an irritating new boss among other problems.
In the quest for news to televise, Clare becomes interested in the death of Wendy Kyle. She's a former cop turned private investigator who specializes in getting evidence on cheating husbands. She dies when her car explodes as she was about to enter it leaving a cryptic page from her diary as the only clue to what she was working on.
Clare sees the death as the exciting news she has been looking for and decides to look into the death. Kyle was a fascinating person with at least as many enemies as supporters and a fair number of her enemies were with the police. Not to mention the many rich and cheating men that she exposed.
The mystery was filled with twists and turns as Clare tried to find out who wanted Kyle dead the most. She calls on two of her ex-lovers to help her out. Both of whom wouldn't mind rekindling their relationships with Clare despite being married men themselves.
I enjoyed this story. I like Clare for her dedication to her job of finding and reporting on important stories. I also like that Clare is angsting about turning fifty without a husband or lover in the picture. I also like her growing relationship with her daughter and granddaughter.
In the quest for news to televise, Clare becomes interested in the death of Wendy Kyle. She's a former cop turned private investigator who specializes in getting evidence on cheating husbands. She dies when her car explodes as she was about to enter it leaving a cryptic page from her diary as the only clue to what she was working on.
Clare sees the death as the exciting news she has been looking for and decides to look into the death. Kyle was a fascinating person with at least as many enemies as supporters and a fair number of her enemies were with the police. Not to mention the many rich and cheating men that she exposed.
The mystery was filled with twists and turns as Clare tried to find out who wanted Kyle dead the most. She calls on two of her ex-lovers to help her out. Both of whom wouldn't mind rekindling their relationships with Clare despite being married men themselves.
I enjoyed this story. I like Clare for her dedication to her job of finding and reporting on important stories. I also like that Clare is angsting about turning fifty without a husband or lover in the picture. I also like her growing relationship with her daughter and granddaughter.
January 2, 2024
Clare Carlson is staring down the barrel of the Big Five-Oh and doesn't like what she sees.
She worries about the impact of age on her television journalism career -- particularly the on-camera scoops she lives for. She frets about her sex life, which is non-existent, for now; her relationship with her long-lost daughter, undergoing her own divorce, which pains Clare because she's oh-for-three in the marriage game herself; and, the undeniable fact her life's a train wreck unless she's pursuing a Big Story.
She also hates her boss and the corporate tool sent to oversee Clare's very own Channel 10 newsroom, where she serves as news director when she isn't on camera herself. Yep, after chewing on all of the above as a main course, turning the Big Five-Oh has all the appeal of a bowl of rancid cherries and curdled milk for dessert.
Fortunately for the unsinkable, wise-cracking protagonist of author R.G. Belsky's sixth Clare Carlson mystery, Broadcast Blues, the news gods have smiled upon her and dropped another juicy murder in her lap.
This one's got all the bells and whistles -- the car bomb killing of an NYPD cop-turned-avenging-angel-investigator who specializes in chasing down rich, wayward husbands; a client list bound to rattle the cages of the wealthy and powerful; a billionaire philanderer whose wife hired the murder victim to catch him in flagrante delicto; and, the overripe scent of crooked cops at the highest levels.
Sex, money and murder. Corruption that could sink New York's leading gubernatorial candidate, who happens to be a former police commissioner. Red meat for our gal Clare. Another chance to do double duty as newsroom director and newsroom star.
Fans of Clare Carlson won't be disappointed with Broadcast Blues. Belsky's latest serves up the best of Clare -- her one-liner darts, her naked distain for ratings gimmicks, her contempt for authority and her bedrock faith in the power of a big story told truly and well. It also gives readers a fly-on-the-wall glimpse of a television newsroom in action, a world of crazed and committed characters Belsky knows well from his award-winning career as a print and TV journalist.
You might want to make sure your chiropractor is on speed dial, though. That's because Belsky is a past master of neck-wrenching plot twists and other unexpected delights. The shocker ending of this book puts Clare in harm's way and has the distant potential of putting the reader in traction.
As for the Big Five-Oh, Clare would rather wisecrack her way past this milestone and wait on the news gods to deliver another scoop-o-rama. They always do. And that makes everything copacetic for our gal Clare.
She worries about the impact of age on her television journalism career -- particularly the on-camera scoops she lives for. She frets about her sex life, which is non-existent, for now; her relationship with her long-lost daughter, undergoing her own divorce, which pains Clare because she's oh-for-three in the marriage game herself; and, the undeniable fact her life's a train wreck unless she's pursuing a Big Story.
She also hates her boss and the corporate tool sent to oversee Clare's very own Channel 10 newsroom, where she serves as news director when she isn't on camera herself. Yep, after chewing on all of the above as a main course, turning the Big Five-Oh has all the appeal of a bowl of rancid cherries and curdled milk for dessert.
Fortunately for the unsinkable, wise-cracking protagonist of author R.G. Belsky's sixth Clare Carlson mystery, Broadcast Blues, the news gods have smiled upon her and dropped another juicy murder in her lap.
This one's got all the bells and whistles -- the car bomb killing of an NYPD cop-turned-avenging-angel-investigator who specializes in chasing down rich, wayward husbands; a client list bound to rattle the cages of the wealthy and powerful; a billionaire philanderer whose wife hired the murder victim to catch him in flagrante delicto; and, the overripe scent of crooked cops at the highest levels.
Sex, money and murder. Corruption that could sink New York's leading gubernatorial candidate, who happens to be a former police commissioner. Red meat for our gal Clare. Another chance to do double duty as newsroom director and newsroom star.
Fans of Clare Carlson won't be disappointed with Broadcast Blues. Belsky's latest serves up the best of Clare -- her one-liner darts, her naked distain for ratings gimmicks, her contempt for authority and her bedrock faith in the power of a big story told truly and well. It also gives readers a fly-on-the-wall glimpse of a television newsroom in action, a world of crazed and committed characters Belsky knows well from his award-winning career as a print and TV journalist.
You might want to make sure your chiropractor is on speed dial, though. That's because Belsky is a past master of neck-wrenching plot twists and other unexpected delights. The shocker ending of this book puts Clare in harm's way and has the distant potential of putting the reader in traction.
As for the Big Five-Oh, Clare would rather wisecrack her way past this milestone and wait on the news gods to deliver another scoop-o-rama. They always do. And that makes everything copacetic for our gal Clare.
November 18, 2023
Book # 6 in the Clare Carlson mystery
This mystery about a TV newswoman Clare Carlson held me captive from the opening pages. What a refreshing and captivating read. It starts with a bang when an explosive device planted in a car detonates killing Wendy Kyle, a private investigator catering to women who suspected their husbands of cheating. Undoubtedly Wendy had angered many people with her work: the list of suspects is endless. Clare knows it will be a huge story for her and sets out to find the truth.
What a page-turner this turned out to be, once started I simply couldn’t put it down. The story is witty, clever and mostly engaging. We are taken on a wild cat and mouse chase through the streets of New York while a television reporter provides us with a fascinating lens into the media along with the murder case. The pacing and plotting are excellent. In fact you couldn’t ask for a more exciting drama. Clare is smart, spunky and persistent: once she gets a scoop she is like a Pitbull she will never let go till she says so. I like the tone it makes you feel part of the TV newsroom with all its craziness and back stabbing.
With its snappy dialog and exciting plot “Broadcast Blues” is one of my favourite mysteries I read this year. Have no fear if you haven’t read the previous installment this one stand solid by itself.
This ARC was provided by Oceanview Publishing via Netgalley
This mystery about a TV newswoman Clare Carlson held me captive from the opening pages. What a refreshing and captivating read. It starts with a bang when an explosive device planted in a car detonates killing Wendy Kyle, a private investigator catering to women who suspected their husbands of cheating. Undoubtedly Wendy had angered many people with her work: the list of suspects is endless. Clare knows it will be a huge story for her and sets out to find the truth.
What a page-turner this turned out to be, once started I simply couldn’t put it down. The story is witty, clever and mostly engaging. We are taken on a wild cat and mouse chase through the streets of New York while a television reporter provides us with a fascinating lens into the media along with the murder case. The pacing and plotting are excellent. In fact you couldn’t ask for a more exciting drama. Clare is smart, spunky and persistent: once she gets a scoop she is like a Pitbull she will never let go till she says so. I like the tone it makes you feel part of the TV newsroom with all its craziness and back stabbing.
With its snappy dialog and exciting plot “Broadcast Blues” is one of my favourite mysteries I read this year. Have no fear if you haven’t read the previous installment this one stand solid by itself.
This ARC was provided by Oceanview Publishing via Netgalley
Read
August 20, 2023The writing is tight, evocative of Chandler at his best (sans L.A.), and the twists and turns in the mystery are deftly done, with a fast pace. I liked the idea of Clare Carlson more than I liked the character; a tough news investigative journalist, also anchor for a news show, Clare is determined to speak truth in her news stories, in spite of a toxic, antagonistic boss, and a trash fire of a life behind her, with three divorces.
My problem with the book I think was me as a reader, having more expectation of not only justice, but some kind of growth, or at least a sense of a fulfilled life. In this book everybody is divorced, not just once but multiple times, conveying a wearying sense of what's the use? Not a fan of that weary cynicism. If that's your thing, this book ought to strongly appeal.
My problem with the book I think was me as a reader, having more expectation of not only justice, but some kind of growth, or at least a sense of a fulfilled life. In this book everybody is divorced, not just once but multiple times, conveying a wearying sense of what's the use? Not a fan of that weary cynicism. If that's your thing, this book ought to strongly appeal.
June 24, 2024
Broadcast Blues is the sixth book in the Clare Carlson series by R.G. Belsky. Clare is a journalist who has worked on several high profile investigations. In Broadcast Blues, Clare covers the death of a former police officer turned private investigator.
Clare is an intelligent, yet flawed character. She makes some questionable decisions, but does have good investigative skills and the determination to find truth.
This is an enjoyable series with interesting mysteries. Broadcast Blues can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend reading the earlier books too.
Broadcast Blues is a complex and intriguing mystery. Recommended for readers who enjoy mysteries from a journalists point of view.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Clare is an intelligent, yet flawed character. She makes some questionable decisions, but does have good investigative skills and the determination to find truth.
This is an enjoyable series with interesting mysteries. Broadcast Blues can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend reading the earlier books too.
Broadcast Blues is a complex and intriguing mystery. Recommended for readers who enjoy mysteries from a journalists point of view.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2024
The pages just flew through my fingers. Belsky’s authentic look inside the world of TV journalism comes alive with the perfect mix of wit, gravity, and thrills. TV Newswoman Clare Carlson is a force of nature. Her own worst enemy in many ways, but we love her because she’s so real. On the eve of turning fifty, she lands a “good murder” story—one that will sell—when an attractive PI named Wendy Kyle is blown up in a car bomb. Clare knows there’s more to it than meets the eye, and she’s right. When everyone’s content to move on and call the case closed, Clare digs further, putting her life in danger. The thrilling climax is complimented by a heartwarming ending that left me with a smile on my face. Well done!
December 31, 2023
When an private investigator specialising in trapping unfaithful spouses, formerly a cop, gets blown up on her turf, reporter Clare Carlson already has a great scoop for her paper.
However, Carson comes to look for an even bigger scoop. Who was the murderer, and what was their motive? The victim, Wendy Kyle, had plenty of enemies........
Carson has angst beyond her day job: coming up for a milestone birthday, the possible takeover of her paper who have their own ideas about what her job description should entail, and her difficult immediate boss. That scoop could save her fortunes.
Then the murders start to stack up, and the question is why the stakes are so high for these cover-up killings to continue. Will it be Carson's turn to be taken out next?
Carson is a journalist, but it seems that journalists have a huge amount in common with sleuths: just like a bloodhound, Carson is not about to abandon the trail, no matter how dangerous it gets.
This works as a whodunit, so twists and unexpected developments abound, until the various reveals detonate. One of the main of these twists seemed just a little bit too contrived, though from an entertainment point of view the story should keep most readers awake unfil the small hours.
However, Carson comes to look for an even bigger scoop. Who was the murderer, and what was their motive? The victim, Wendy Kyle, had plenty of enemies........
Carson has angst beyond her day job: coming up for a milestone birthday, the possible takeover of her paper who have their own ideas about what her job description should entail, and her difficult immediate boss. That scoop could save her fortunes.
Then the murders start to stack up, and the question is why the stakes are so high for these cover-up killings to continue. Will it be Carson's turn to be taken out next?
Carson is a journalist, but it seems that journalists have a huge amount in common with sleuths: just like a bloodhound, Carson is not about to abandon the trail, no matter how dangerous it gets.
This works as a whodunit, so twists and unexpected developments abound, until the various reveals detonate. One of the main of these twists seemed just a little bit too contrived, though from an entertainment point of view the story should keep most readers awake unfil the small hours.
January 2, 2024
This is my first Clare Carlson mystery. I didn’t feel like I missed out on any of her backstory since Belsky provided concise summaries of her life throughout the narrative.
Although as a rule I do not like the media or journalists, I do like Clare. First, she’s my age, and we share the same bad track record with men. I liked her tenacity and spunk. I also did like her old school investigative journalism nose for news methods and tact because both are pretty much dead in modern media.
No one is who they are supposed to be in the book which kept the events interesting and me turning the pages to see who had slept with whom and who was the bigger slime ball.
The story line wrapped up nicely and although Carlson had made some unwise relationship decisions in the past, ultimately she finally starts to invoke better judgment into her fifth decade.
Thanks to NetGalley and Oceanview Publishing for the advance read.
Although as a rule I do not like the media or journalists, I do like Clare. First, she’s my age, and we share the same bad track record with men. I liked her tenacity and spunk. I also did like her old school investigative journalism nose for news methods and tact because both are pretty much dead in modern media.
No one is who they are supposed to be in the book which kept the events interesting and me turning the pages to see who had slept with whom and who was the bigger slime ball.
The story line wrapped up nicely and although Carlson had made some unwise relationship decisions in the past, ultimately she finally starts to invoke better judgment into her fifth decade.
Thanks to NetGalley and Oceanview Publishing for the advance read.
January 1, 2024
Broadcast Blues by R. G. Belsky
Clare Carlson is a television journalist. She seems to take more pride in the journalist part than the TV part. This read as a stand-alone with no difficulty although it is part of a continuing series of five other books. Clare has a problem with authority. She also has an uncontrollable mouth or at least minimal control. This book focuses on the death of a private investigator.
Wendy Kyle and Clare could have been friends with the exception that Wendy is dead. Wendy’s private investigation firm specialized in the cheating spouse, primarily the husband half of relationships. The enormous number of cheating spouses led to an enormous number of suspects. Clare was determined to get to the bottom of the mystery for two reasons, first, a blockbuster story might save her job, and second, she found herself more and more sad over the circumstances of Wendy’s demise.
I enjoyed the book and recommend it.
Clare Carlson is a television journalist. She seems to take more pride in the journalist part than the TV part. This read as a stand-alone with no difficulty although it is part of a continuing series of five other books. Clare has a problem with authority. She also has an uncontrollable mouth or at least minimal control. This book focuses on the death of a private investigator.
Wendy Kyle and Clare could have been friends with the exception that Wendy is dead. Wendy’s private investigation firm specialized in the cheating spouse, primarily the husband half of relationships. The enormous number of cheating spouses led to an enormous number of suspects. Clare was determined to get to the bottom of the mystery for two reasons, first, a blockbuster story might save her job, and second, she found herself more and more sad over the circumstances of Wendy’s demise.
I enjoyed the book and recommend it.
June 11, 2024
R.G. Belsky's Broadcast Blues starts off with a bang- as in a car bomb explosion. Clare Carlson is on the story immediately. Wendy Kyle, the PI victim and former police officer, specialized in divorce cases and used questionable tactics to help her female clients receive large settlements. Her history as a police officer was even more colorful- she violently attacked her boss and was kicked off the force. Clare is convinced that this is a big enough story to give her leverage against her own boss. Clare is currently fighting a case of the blues brought on by turning 50 and dealing with ageism and changes in journalism as a viable career. Her investigation focuses on Kyle's history and reveals questions regarding corruption in the police department. This raises political issues regarding the current leading candidate for governor. The complex plot involves political donations, former police officers and current ones, and a possible cover up of a murder. Clare is good at using her many law enforcement contacts, former husbands, and other friends, associates, and perfect strangers to gather the bits and pieces required to solve Kyle's car bombing and unravel the various crimes that she comes across in the process. Clare is believable, and Belsky continues to offer credible surprises for her to confront. This is part of a series that can be read as a stanalone. Hopefully Belsky will have a #7 for her; his use of a car bomb shows that he keeps things fresh and newsworthy.
September 15, 2023
A good book to get introduced to Clare.
My first book of Belsky, that I picked up purely based on the write-up on a news director's quest for news.
Starts of slowly, picks up momentum gradually and it has all elements of a mystery thriller.
As per the usual format for crime thrillers, there is a sudden unexpected twist in the plot during the last 100 pages and all the loose ends are nearly tied up to conclude the story.
My only concern is that all the crime novel writers make the reader a byestander or a mute spectator to the happenings. Very few writers invite the participation of the reader to solve the mystery.
This is the reason that Agatha Christie or Sherlock Holmesmysteries are so evergreen , challenging the readers to solve the mystery by presenting all the clues
In any case enjoyed reading this book which kept me engrossed right till the end.
My first book of Belsky, that I picked up purely based on the write-up on a news director's quest for news.
Starts of slowly, picks up momentum gradually and it has all elements of a mystery thriller.
As per the usual format for crime thrillers, there is a sudden unexpected twist in the plot during the last 100 pages and all the loose ends are nearly tied up to conclude the story.
My only concern is that all the crime novel writers make the reader a byestander or a mute spectator to the happenings. Very few writers invite the participation of the reader to solve the mystery.
This is the reason that Agatha Christie or Sherlock Holmesmysteries are so evergreen , challenging the readers to solve the mystery by presenting all the clues
In any case enjoyed reading this book which kept me engrossed right till the end.
December 16, 2023
A good book to get introduced to Clare.
My first book of Belsky, that I picked up purely based on the write-up on a news director's quest for news.
Starts off slowly, picks up momentum gradually and it has all elements of a mystery thriller.
As per the usual format for crime thrillers, there is a sudden unexpected twist in the plot during the last 100 pages and all the loose ends are nearly tied up to conclude the story.
My only concern is that all the crime novel writers make the reader a byestander or a mute spectator to the happenings. Very few writers invite the participation of the reader to solve the mystery.
This is the reason that Agatha Christie or Sherlock Holmesmysteries are so evergreen , challenging the readers to solve the mystery by presenting all the clues
In any case enjoyed reading this book which kept me engrossed right till the end.
My first book of Belsky, that I picked up purely based on the write-up on a news director's quest for news.
Starts off slowly, picks up momentum gradually and it has all elements of a mystery thriller.
As per the usual format for crime thrillers, there is a sudden unexpected twist in the plot during the last 100 pages and all the loose ends are nearly tied up to conclude the story.
My only concern is that all the crime novel writers make the reader a byestander or a mute spectator to the happenings. Very few writers invite the participation of the reader to solve the mystery.
This is the reason that Agatha Christie or Sherlock Holmesmysteries are so evergreen , challenging the readers to solve the mystery by presenting all the clues
In any case enjoyed reading this book which kept me engrossed right till the end.
August 16, 2023
Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read this book prerelease. I have not read any of the other series but it didn't matter. From the minute I picked up the book I was hooked, it was an exciting read and I couldn't put it down! Lots of different facets of her personal and public life causing her turmoil. Lots of investigative red herrings that totally shocked me. And Lots of endings!!! A highly recommended read...be warned if you haven't read the series, you'll want to after this book👍
August 26, 2023
You've got to love a character like Clare, but don't get fooled by the light storytelling, as there is a really good plot here. It may also be nice that the author stays in character by using journalistic language like "buying a hot dog from a vendor covered in sauerkraut" and the pistol was a "9mm Lugar"?
January 3, 2024
In an era of skepticism--even outright mistrust--of news media, author RG Belsky brings to life a journalist of admirable integrity and tenacity in protagonist Clare Carlson, a woman who is clear-eyed in her role as a true teller, but not without her flaws. Clare's personal life is in disarray, and relationships are proving both unpredictable and challenging, but she earns our respect as a heroine worthy of our esteem the old-fashioned way: hard work, determination and grit.
Author Belsky‘s insights as a lifelong TV and print journalist himself, animates not only this newest thriller, BROADCAST BLUES, but the entire Clare Carlson series; and his skill creating razor-sharp dialogue, unexpected plot twists, and clever, compelling characters place him at the top of his game.
I’m a long time admirer of Belsky‘s and the Carlson series in particular, to which BROADCAST BLUES is a thrilling, entertaining and welcome addition – kudos (yet again) RG Belsky! Highly recommended.
Author Belsky‘s insights as a lifelong TV and print journalist himself, animates not only this newest thriller, BROADCAST BLUES, but the entire Clare Carlson series; and his skill creating razor-sharp dialogue, unexpected plot twists, and clever, compelling characters place him at the top of his game.
I’m a long time admirer of Belsky‘s and the Carlson series in particular, to which BROADCAST BLUES is a thrilling, entertaining and welcome addition – kudos (yet again) RG Belsky! Highly recommended.
January 3, 2024
Book #6 in the Claire Carlson series. Each book can be read as a stand alone but there are some character building chapters in the first books that lend weight to the perception of Claire as a badass tv journalist. Claire is facing her 50th birthday in the mirror every morning. In a job where looks matter, she's looking to secure her news director job by investigating and reporting on some mega crimes. When Wendy Kyle is murdered by a car bomb, Claire figures there has to be a story there, so she starts her own investigation.
Wendy Kyle has a history of finding secrets that cause trouble for some wealthy, influential men. There is a long list of men who would love to see her dead. As Claire follows the clues, she'll get help from a support crew of friends and family. And the killer......you'll never believe it!!!
Wendy Kyle has a history of finding secrets that cause trouble for some wealthy, influential men. There is a long list of men who would love to see her dead. As Claire follows the clues, she'll get help from a support crew of friends and family. And the killer......you'll never believe it!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews