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Newsmakers #1
The Newsmakers
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.
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.
337 pages, Hardcover
First published January 19, 2016
128 people are currently reading
1647 people want to read
About the author
Lis Wiehl
26 books631 followersLis Wiehl is a New York Times bestselling author of both fiction and nonfiction books, a journalist, an attorney, and a legal expert. She is the former legal analyst for Fox News, former co-host of WOR radio's “WOR Tonight with Joe Concha and Lis Wiehl,” and was an anchor for the Law & Crime network (a multi-media live trial network). Lis Wiehl hosted the podcast Pursuit of Justice with Lis Wiehl and until recently was an adjunct professor of Law at New York Law School. Lis is the author of eighteen books, including the first in The Hunting Series, Hunting Charles Manson: The Quest for Justice in the Days of Helter Skelter, out in paperback from Thomas Nelson/HarperCollins on June 25, 2019.
Lis Wiehl is one of the nation’s most highly regarded commentators and legal experts. After graduating from Harvard Law School, Wiehl practiced law in a private law firm in Seattle where she also wrote by-lined articles on legal issues for The New York Times. From there she went on to become a third generation federal prosecutor (her grandfather and her father — an FBI agent — were also federal prosecutors) in the US Attorney's Office in Seattle. She served as the Deputy Chief Investigative Counsel for Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee during President Clinton’s impeachment. From 1995 to 2001, she was a tenured law professor at the University of Washington School of Law in Seattle, where she ran the Trial Advocacy Program, which won several national awards during her tenure.
During her time at the University of Washington, Wiehl also stepped deeper into journalism by working as a reporter and legal analyst for NPR's All Things Considered, MSNBC/NBC News, and locally at KIRO, the CBS network affiliate in Seattle. After MSNBC and National Public Radio, Wiehl moved to the Fox News Channel where she served as a legal analyst and reporter for over fifteen years. During her time at the Fox News Channel, she appeared on numerous shows including The O'Reilly Factor, Your World with Neil Cavuto, The Kelly File with Megyn Kelly, Lou Dobbs Tonight, and the Imus morning show. Wiehl also hosted the Legal Lis radio show and the Wiehl of Justice podcast.
In 2005, Wiehl released her first book, Winning Every Time: How to Use the Skills of a Lawyer in the Trials of Your Life. Two years later she released The 51% Minority: How Women Still Are Not Equal and What You Can Do About It which was awarded the 2008 award for Books for a Better Life in the motivational category. Since then, Wiehl has continued to write bestselling books of fiction and non-fiction.
Lis Wiehl continues to appear in the media as a legal expert and commentator for organizations including CNN, CBS, NBC, and NPR among others. She regularly lectures at colleges and universities, appears as a keynote speaker, and speaks at bookstores, conferences, and literary festivals.
Wiehl earned her Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School, her Master of Arts in Literature from the University of Queensland, and a bachelor’s degree from Barnard College, Columbia University.
Lis Wiehl currently lives near New York City.
For more information please visit www.liswiehlbooks.com.
Lis Wiehl is one of the nation’s most highly regarded commentators and legal experts. After graduating from Harvard Law School, Wiehl practiced law in a private law firm in Seattle where she also wrote by-lined articles on legal issues for The New York Times. From there she went on to become a third generation federal prosecutor (her grandfather and her father — an FBI agent — were also federal prosecutors) in the US Attorney's Office in Seattle. She served as the Deputy Chief Investigative Counsel for Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee during President Clinton’s impeachment. From 1995 to 2001, she was a tenured law professor at the University of Washington School of Law in Seattle, where she ran the Trial Advocacy Program, which won several national awards during her tenure.
During her time at the University of Washington, Wiehl also stepped deeper into journalism by working as a reporter and legal analyst for NPR's All Things Considered, MSNBC/NBC News, and locally at KIRO, the CBS network affiliate in Seattle. After MSNBC and National Public Radio, Wiehl moved to the Fox News Channel where she served as a legal analyst and reporter for over fifteen years. During her time at the Fox News Channel, she appeared on numerous shows including The O'Reilly Factor, Your World with Neil Cavuto, The Kelly File with Megyn Kelly, Lou Dobbs Tonight, and the Imus morning show. Wiehl also hosted the Legal Lis radio show and the Wiehl of Justice podcast.
In 2005, Wiehl released her first book, Winning Every Time: How to Use the Skills of a Lawyer in the Trials of Your Life. Two years later she released The 51% Minority: How Women Still Are Not Equal and What You Can Do About It which was awarded the 2008 award for Books for a Better Life in the motivational category. Since then, Wiehl has continued to write bestselling books of fiction and non-fiction.
Lis Wiehl continues to appear in the media as a legal expert and commentator for organizations including CNN, CBS, NBC, and NPR among others. She regularly lectures at colleges and universities, appears as a keynote speaker, and speaks at bookstores, conferences, and literary festivals.
Wiehl earned her Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School, her Master of Arts in Literature from the University of Queensland, and a bachelor’s degree from Barnard College, Columbia University.
Lis Wiehl currently lives near New York City.
For more information please visit www.liswiehlbooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 232 reviews
December 28, 2015
Read on the WondrousBooks blog.
Another interesting-looking book from NetGalley which didn't live up to its potential. And I didn't even know what I had in store for me, and therefore had medium expectations.
Another interesting-looking book from NetGalley which didn't live up to its potential. And I didn't even know what I had in store for me, and therefore had medium expectations.
The Newsmakers did not suffer from bad writing or a poor story, it suffered from the indifference I felt toward the characters. Ultimately none of them were people I thought I could care for, even Erica, whose story is explained in great depth. It just didn't do it for me.
I can't say that this was the best writing I've seen in my life, but I've also seen way worse - in terms of storytelling. There was intrigue, but not nearly enough suspense and I knew what was going on from the very beginning. In the scene with the ferry I considered two possibilities:
1. That this is a supernatural book, which, however, I didn't remember reading in the symmary;
2. Or that it was going to end exactly as it did.
I win, I guess.
Despite the quantity of information we get on Erica, we learn so little about all of the other characters. They just... are. Their motivations are not explained in depth and that is especially important about the main villain, who is not characterized by anything than just being a psycho. Okay, but... why?
The Newsmakers is not nerve-wreckingly slow and lacking development so I guess if you are looking for a short afternoon read, you could give it a chance. I would look for something else though.
November 23, 2017
Erica Sparks is a journalist. She’s trying to impress her boss.
She’s known to be a beautiful woman and power focused.
Her life has been tough, she’s experienced tragedy and she’s just beginning to get her life back on track.
Within this though, the past comes back to haunt her.
All that she hold dear could be in jeopardy.
Great news stories seem to be falling at her feet, in the place at the right time.
Is this Co-incidents?
She’s soon finding herself as one of the Top Reporters at the GNN Global News Network.
It’s a fast paced thriller which goes from one crisis to another.it doesn’t give you much time to breath which isn’t a bad thing, however it lead me to gasp and humf sometimes at it’s believableness.
This is sold as a Christian Read, so don’t be mistaken it’s a clean living book, it’s much more modern than that.
My tanks to Thomas Nelson-fiction via Net Galley for my copy
She’s known to be a beautiful woman and power focused.
Her life has been tough, she’s experienced tragedy and she’s just beginning to get her life back on track.
Within this though, the past comes back to haunt her.
All that she hold dear could be in jeopardy.
Great news stories seem to be falling at her feet, in the place at the right time.
Is this Co-incidents?
She’s soon finding herself as one of the Top Reporters at the GNN Global News Network.
It’s a fast paced thriller which goes from one crisis to another.it doesn’t give you much time to breath which isn’t a bad thing, however it lead me to gasp and humf sometimes at it’s believableness.
This is sold as a Christian Read, so don’t be mistaken it’s a clean living book, it’s much more modern than that.
My tanks to Thomas Nelson-fiction via Net Galley for my copy
October 3, 2016
A special thank you to Nelson--FICTION and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
There is so much here, so hold on - it is worth the journey! For those readers who may not be familiar with the author.
A fan of Lis Wiehl, and Wiehl of Justice FOX News Radio- One of the nation’s most prominent trial lawyers and highly regarded commentators, she is also the host of the podcast which is always fun and juicy--featuring other crimes, and crime authors. Very interesting--loved the Karin Slaughter interview.
In addition, I have enjoyed reading Wiehl's previous books: Mia Quinn mystery series, and Snapshot an enthralling tale of good versus evil, inspired by actual historical events, civil rights movement and injustice-- landing on my Top 30 Books of 2014 —while anxiously awaiting her next upcoming new release.
Wiehl’s books are plot-driven, edgy, fast-paced suspense; featuring strong yet, flawed heroines, faced with numerous obstacles, striving for justice. From lies, deceit, menace, corruption, and power. You can come to expect to meet an evil twisted villain.
OK, back to THE NEWSMAKERS:
Wiehl, steps up the intensity and complexity, with her riveting new series, with an unstoppable heroine – Erica Sparks, a journalist in the crossfires of cyber-terrorism, corruption, murder and a psychopath in disguise. Her personal life and professional become intertwined.
Erika, a driven and beautiful reporter, has a second chance. Her life is back on track after a tragedy—a train wreck. Nothing can stop her, or so she thinks. Until she is faced with the most dangerous web of deceit. A conspiracy. Cut-throat. Her life, her daughter, her career. All she holds precious. Her past has returned, and the enemies are using her past sins against her. Worst of all, she is in the center of this evil game. The sadistic psychotic minds behind the acts of terrorism will stop at nothing due to their own greed, power, and control.
We meet Nylan Hastings, the network’s founder. Failure is something he does not do. He does success. He is excessive. Global News Network GNN is floundering, bleeding well over a million dollars a week, while he is searching for an identity in a competitive market. He wants a star. Someone he can mold and nurture--transform into the face of GNN. He needs raw talent, that intangible quality that makes someone leap off the screen and into the mind, heart, and soul. He lives for their fear. It is a power surge. They all are expendable. He demands control.
Greg Underwood, is the executive producer of GNN. He is one of the smart ones. Attractive, with fresh ideas. He has discovered a new star. Someone from a small New Hampshire station. She has talent. Erica Sparks. Nylan wants her on board. He is charismatic, idiosyncratic, enigmatic. He has an exciting vision of a synergistic network that seamlessly spans broadcast and social media.
Erica Sparks, blonde, beautiful, driven and sharp. She had endured a poor childhood and worked hard for her success. However, she has a dark past. She is delighted about her second chance—her first day on the job in New York as a field reporter. The first step toward scaling the heights of television news. She is renting a corporate apartment for six months. Nothing fancy. She is here to work, to build a new life for herself and her daughter. Jenny, her funny and brave eight- year- old daughter. She has paid a terrible price for Erica’s mistakes.
GNN headquarters is in the heart of American’s media capital, just blocks from NBC, FOX, and CBS. Erica is about to start the new chapter in her life. Erica is fascinated. She will show them what she is made of. Greg is to serve as her mentor. The company is well capitalized and aggressive, with an uncanny knack for breaking stories before its rivals. Ratings are going up and Erica could be in on the ground floor of something big. She could become a star. She would be able to give her daughter all the advantages she never had.
The job start out strong. She dives in head first. She is working on an interview with Duchess of Cambridge, coming to town. Her boss is impressed, she has been on the job less than an hour and she makes things happen.
In the meantime, there is Greg’s looks and charm. He is attractive; however, romance is simply not on her radar. There is chemistry. She is suffering from her vodka-soaked wounds of her failed marriage which destroyed her relationship with not only her husband-- her daughter, and her career. She has been sober for one year eleven months, and eleven days.
She was formerly working as a nighttime co-anchor on a Boston station and probably drinking a little too much when she discovered Dirk’s affair. He wanted a divorce and everything had spun out of control. From two glasses of wine a night to three to four cocktails to an all-vodka diet. Dirk had moved out and took Jenny with him. The station had fired her for on-air intoxication—she ended up in the hospital, under arrest. Plus more we learn later, involving the safety of her daughter, ultimately losing custody.
The judge gave her a choice of rehab or six months in jail. She took rehab and then surrender, acceptance, grace. She had taken six months to get clean and pleaded her way into a job as a reporter for the small New Hampshire station. Just as Boston wanted her back, she received the call from Greg.
In the meantime, she makes friends, at the new job. There are also jealous backstabbers. The politics, the evil games. She is warned she cannot trust everyone.
Her big interview is scheduled under a tent at Battery Park—her first assignment. Kate Middleton. Before she can begin her interview, she witnesses a horrific Staten Island ferry crash. Of course, she is there and performs brilliantly. Their ratings soar and her boss is thrilled. Of course, thereafter while working on the case, someone else takes over and steals her story. Someone is playing games. Someone knew the perfect moment to gain maximum media coverage.
Next, 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.
Erica is alarmed and suspicious. Is someone pulling the strings? How could she be in the right place at the right time? She has a feeling; however, she is not sure whom she can trust. She is caught in the middle. With promises of grandeur, power, and money. She continues her investigation under the radar.
The undeniable fact the tragedies have benefited her career. She has always felt that success is 90% work and 10% luck. She is either very lucky or someone is plotting a bigger plan---she is in the center of the conspiracy. She suspects computer malfunction, terrorism, hacking. After all, cyber-terrorism is the twenty-first century’s battlefield. She has a theory. She has to be a team player; however, she gets others involved in the investigation which puts them in danger.
Now, she has put her daughter in danger and herself. Someone wants to use her and kill her. Next, she and Greg become closer; however, can she trust him? Someone attains her sealed public records and wants to use it against her. Greg wants her to do an ongoing segment where she would interview celebrities and politicians who are also recovering addicts. She would be able to bond with them in a way no other reporter could. Her struggles could make her sympathetic.
Then the autopsy reveals a murder. Surely they could not hold her accountable. However, she is always there when a tragedy occurs. Nylan gets creepy. Her best friend Moira warns her to be careful. She knows there is a fine line between genius and madness. They want to offer her a contract for three million dollars a year, plus a housing allowance, car, and driver. She is more than a news reader, she is a journalist. She is flattered with the money and the status; however, she feels she is making a deal with the devil.
However, on the other hand, she could get custody back of Jenny-- the money would give them a beautiful apartment and money for private school—every advantage of a privileged Manhattan childhood. Erica has to pick her battles carefully. Now they are offering her own show, The Erica Sparks Effect. She has to gather more proof.
Something is horribly wrong. What is the motive and who is behind this deadly game of murder for hire? How are they connected? How are they always one step ahead of the news?. Whoever is committing these crimes are putting layers of cover between themselves and the actual perpetrators. She has to follow the trail. They know too much about her personal life, and this makes her fearful. She is being manipulated. She is part of their web. Their plan.
Journalism and justice demand the truth. She needs proof. The closer she gets, the greater the danger. She cannot stop. She had paid a terrible price—losing custody of Jenny. Now another price must be paid. She has to face the bitter irony that she is committed to finding the truth—and in doing so, may be undone by her own sin of omission. If everything comes out she will never get custody of Jenny. Her life is crumbling. Now she has to save her own daughter.
“You can’t ever, ever change where you come from. And deep down you’ll never be better than any of us.” Words continue to haunt her—from her sick mother.
A race against time, at breakneck speed- someone is helping her with the investigation, and they are getting close to finding proof. As they head to Miami, FL, she has to keep up the front. Something is about to happen. She has an interview at the airport. The plane. She cannot be in the middle of another tragedy. She has to stop the mission before more innocent deaths. They find encrypted emails—someone hacked into the system and breached systems. The enemies are going to make another deadly move. They have to contact the FBI. The secret service. They have the film crew. They have to stop the attack.
Wow, a riveting page turner! My heart is still pounding - Intense. You cannot put this one down. A mix of psycho-mystery suspense thriller: from politics, media, crime, power, greed, Russian Mafia, terrorism, conspiracy, and murder.
At the heart of the novel is a flawed heroine—of loss, love, family and redemption. Second chances. Motherhood. A journalist who wants to be her best. Uncovering the truth, no matter where it leads.
Erica shines! She is truly a battered little girl, in fear of her own mother’s fits. A teen who studied diligently, becoming the first ever graduate of her high school to make it to the Ivy League. In the novel, she is now a mother, guilt-ridden about her past drinking and loss of her marriage and daughter. Desperate to get her daughter back, she is trapped in a situation that has spun out of control, as she is haunted by her sick mother’s mocking laughter, her terrors, and taunting peers at school. Never good enough. Reconciliation.
Hope we hear more from Erica. You will root for her-- her tenacity, and desire for a happy ending --possibly a little romance? No one can tell this type of story better than Lis! Looking forward to the next in the series. The Candidate, Coming Oct 4, 2016
JDCMustReadBooks
There is so much here, so hold on - it is worth the journey! For those readers who may not be familiar with the author.
A fan of Lis Wiehl, and Wiehl of Justice FOX News Radio- One of the nation’s most prominent trial lawyers and highly regarded commentators, she is also the host of the podcast which is always fun and juicy--featuring other crimes, and crime authors. Very interesting--loved the Karin Slaughter interview.
In addition, I have enjoyed reading Wiehl's previous books: Mia Quinn mystery series, and Snapshot an enthralling tale of good versus evil, inspired by actual historical events, civil rights movement and injustice-- landing on my Top 30 Books of 2014 —while anxiously awaiting her next upcoming new release.
Wiehl’s books are plot-driven, edgy, fast-paced suspense; featuring strong yet, flawed heroines, faced with numerous obstacles, striving for justice. From lies, deceit, menace, corruption, and power. You can come to expect to meet an evil twisted villain.
OK, back to THE NEWSMAKERS:
Wiehl, steps up the intensity and complexity, with her riveting new series, with an unstoppable heroine – Erica Sparks, a journalist in the crossfires of cyber-terrorism, corruption, murder and a psychopath in disguise. Her personal life and professional become intertwined.
Erika, a driven and beautiful reporter, has a second chance. Her life is back on track after a tragedy—a train wreck. Nothing can stop her, or so she thinks. Until she is faced with the most dangerous web of deceit. A conspiracy. Cut-throat. Her life, her daughter, her career. All she holds precious. Her past has returned, and the enemies are using her past sins against her. Worst of all, she is in the center of this evil game. The sadistic psychotic minds behind the acts of terrorism will stop at nothing due to their own greed, power, and control.
We meet Nylan Hastings, the network’s founder. Failure is something he does not do. He does success. He is excessive. Global News Network GNN is floundering, bleeding well over a million dollars a week, while he is searching for an identity in a competitive market. He wants a star. Someone he can mold and nurture--transform into the face of GNN. He needs raw talent, that intangible quality that makes someone leap off the screen and into the mind, heart, and soul. He lives for their fear. It is a power surge. They all are expendable. He demands control.
Greg Underwood, is the executive producer of GNN. He is one of the smart ones. Attractive, with fresh ideas. He has discovered a new star. Someone from a small New Hampshire station. She has talent. Erica Sparks. Nylan wants her on board. He is charismatic, idiosyncratic, enigmatic. He has an exciting vision of a synergistic network that seamlessly spans broadcast and social media.
Erica Sparks, blonde, beautiful, driven and sharp. She had endured a poor childhood and worked hard for her success. However, she has a dark past. She is delighted about her second chance—her first day on the job in New York as a field reporter. The first step toward scaling the heights of television news. She is renting a corporate apartment for six months. Nothing fancy. She is here to work, to build a new life for herself and her daughter. Jenny, her funny and brave eight- year- old daughter. She has paid a terrible price for Erica’s mistakes.
GNN headquarters is in the heart of American’s media capital, just blocks from NBC, FOX, and CBS. Erica is about to start the new chapter in her life. Erica is fascinated. She will show them what she is made of. Greg is to serve as her mentor. The company is well capitalized and aggressive, with an uncanny knack for breaking stories before its rivals. Ratings are going up and Erica could be in on the ground floor of something big. She could become a star. She would be able to give her daughter all the advantages she never had.
The job start out strong. She dives in head first. She is working on an interview with Duchess of Cambridge, coming to town. Her boss is impressed, she has been on the job less than an hour and she makes things happen.
In the meantime, there is Greg’s looks and charm. He is attractive; however, romance is simply not on her radar. There is chemistry. She is suffering from her vodka-soaked wounds of her failed marriage which destroyed her relationship with not only her husband-- her daughter, and her career. She has been sober for one year eleven months, and eleven days.
She was formerly working as a nighttime co-anchor on a Boston station and probably drinking a little too much when she discovered Dirk’s affair. He wanted a divorce and everything had spun out of control. From two glasses of wine a night to three to four cocktails to an all-vodka diet. Dirk had moved out and took Jenny with him. The station had fired her for on-air intoxication—she ended up in the hospital, under arrest. Plus more we learn later, involving the safety of her daughter, ultimately losing custody.
The judge gave her a choice of rehab or six months in jail. She took rehab and then surrender, acceptance, grace. She had taken six months to get clean and pleaded her way into a job as a reporter for the small New Hampshire station. Just as Boston wanted her back, she received the call from Greg.
In the meantime, she makes friends, at the new job. There are also jealous backstabbers. The politics, the evil games. She is warned she cannot trust everyone.
Her big interview is scheduled under a tent at Battery Park—her first assignment. Kate Middleton. Before she can begin her interview, she witnesses a horrific Staten Island ferry crash. Of course, she is there and performs brilliantly. Their ratings soar and her boss is thrilled. Of course, thereafter while working on the case, someone else takes over and steals her story. Someone is playing games. Someone knew the perfect moment to gain maximum media coverage.
Next, 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.
Erica is alarmed and suspicious. Is someone pulling the strings? How could she be in the right place at the right time? She has a feeling; however, she is not sure whom she can trust. She is caught in the middle. With promises of grandeur, power, and money. She continues her investigation under the radar.
The undeniable fact the tragedies have benefited her career. She has always felt that success is 90% work and 10% luck. She is either very lucky or someone is plotting a bigger plan---she is in the center of the conspiracy. She suspects computer malfunction, terrorism, hacking. After all, cyber-terrorism is the twenty-first century’s battlefield. She has a theory. She has to be a team player; however, she gets others involved in the investigation which puts them in danger.
Now, she has put her daughter in danger and herself. Someone wants to use her and kill her. Next, she and Greg become closer; however, can she trust him? Someone attains her sealed public records and wants to use it against her. Greg wants her to do an ongoing segment where she would interview celebrities and politicians who are also recovering addicts. She would be able to bond with them in a way no other reporter could. Her struggles could make her sympathetic.
Then the autopsy reveals a murder. Surely they could not hold her accountable. However, she is always there when a tragedy occurs. Nylan gets creepy. Her best friend Moira warns her to be careful. She knows there is a fine line between genius and madness. They want to offer her a contract for three million dollars a year, plus a housing allowance, car, and driver. She is more than a news reader, she is a journalist. She is flattered with the money and the status; however, she feels she is making a deal with the devil.
However, on the other hand, she could get custody back of Jenny-- the money would give them a beautiful apartment and money for private school—every advantage of a privileged Manhattan childhood. Erica has to pick her battles carefully. Now they are offering her own show, The Erica Sparks Effect. She has to gather more proof.
Something is horribly wrong. What is the motive and who is behind this deadly game of murder for hire? How are they connected? How are they always one step ahead of the news?. Whoever is committing these crimes are putting layers of cover between themselves and the actual perpetrators. She has to follow the trail. They know too much about her personal life, and this makes her fearful. She is being manipulated. She is part of their web. Their plan.
Journalism and justice demand the truth. She needs proof. The closer she gets, the greater the danger. She cannot stop. She had paid a terrible price—losing custody of Jenny. Now another price must be paid. She has to face the bitter irony that she is committed to finding the truth—and in doing so, may be undone by her own sin of omission. If everything comes out she will never get custody of Jenny. Her life is crumbling. Now she has to save her own daughter.
“You can’t ever, ever change where you come from. And deep down you’ll never be better than any of us.” Words continue to haunt her—from her sick mother.
A race against time, at breakneck speed- someone is helping her with the investigation, and they are getting close to finding proof. As they head to Miami, FL, she has to keep up the front. Something is about to happen. She has an interview at the airport. The plane. She cannot be in the middle of another tragedy. She has to stop the mission before more innocent deaths. They find encrypted emails—someone hacked into the system and breached systems. The enemies are going to make another deadly move. They have to contact the FBI. The secret service. They have the film crew. They have to stop the attack.
Wow, a riveting page turner! My heart is still pounding - Intense. You cannot put this one down. A mix of psycho-mystery suspense thriller: from politics, media, crime, power, greed, Russian Mafia, terrorism, conspiracy, and murder.
At the heart of the novel is a flawed heroine—of loss, love, family and redemption. Second chances. Motherhood. A journalist who wants to be her best. Uncovering the truth, no matter where it leads.
Erica shines! She is truly a battered little girl, in fear of her own mother’s fits. A teen who studied diligently, becoming the first ever graduate of her high school to make it to the Ivy League. In the novel, she is now a mother, guilt-ridden about her past drinking and loss of her marriage and daughter. Desperate to get her daughter back, she is trapped in a situation that has spun out of control, as she is haunted by her sick mother’s mocking laughter, her terrors, and taunting peers at school. Never good enough. Reconciliation.
Hope we hear more from Erica. You will root for her-- her tenacity, and desire for a happy ending --possibly a little romance? No one can tell this type of story better than Lis! Looking forward to the next in the series. The Candidate, Coming Oct 4, 2016
JDCMustReadBooks
February 2, 2016
The Newsmakers had an interesting and intriguing premise. Erica is our protagonist with a damaged, flawed history as a recovering alcoholic who lost custody of her daughter, suddenly catapulted into fame and made the next Oprah almost overnight, through a series of horrific circumstances that occurred whilst she was reporting on them. Weird, dangerous and unsettling things keep happening to her, and I was expecting a suspenseful thriller trying to work out who was behind it, or if indeed, they were just circumstances.
Unfortunately that's not what happened, since we are presented with the main villain on a platter very early in the book. We are shown that he's an evil psychopath and that's about it for him. I hoped for some sort of mad twist right up until the very end (the last line of which made me roll my eyes, but I don't want to give any spoilers so can't say more). There was no real suspense since we already know who the bad guy is, so it's just a matter of seeing if he gets caught, or succeeds with his sadistic intentions. I didn't really feel much for this novel to be honest, despite liking the premise - it managed to make a really exciting idea with a lot of potential for psychological thrills fairly mundane.
I did enjoy the detailed and lively descriptions of the characters at GNN news, and felt that the author really shined in describing this atmosphere, although at times the writing style seemed a little confused. There were some strange juxtapositions between present and past tense that confused me at points, drawing me away from the action. Overall it was okay, but I didn't feel it lived up to the potential of the blurb.
Unfortunately that's not what happened, since we are presented with the main villain on a platter very early in the book. We are shown that he's an evil psychopath and that's about it for him. I hoped for some sort of mad twist right up until the very end (the last line of which made me roll my eyes, but I don't want to give any spoilers so can't say more). There was no real suspense since we already know who the bad guy is, so it's just a matter of seeing if he gets caught, or succeeds with his sadistic intentions. I didn't really feel much for this novel to be honest, despite liking the premise - it managed to make a really exciting idea with a lot of potential for psychological thrills fairly mundane.
I did enjoy the detailed and lively descriptions of the characters at GNN news, and felt that the author really shined in describing this atmosphere, although at times the writing style seemed a little confused. There were some strange juxtapositions between present and past tense that confused me at points, drawing me away from the action. Overall it was okay, but I didn't feel it lived up to the potential of the blurb.
December 19, 2017
Well...I really wanted to like this book more than I did. When Erica lands a job as a news reporter and happens to be on the scene of a ferry crash, her career takes off. Then, she ends up being on the scene during another major news story...and then another. Erica finds this to be a little odd, and starts doing some digging. Is someone manufacturing these events and making sure she's on the scene? If so, who? And why? Is she in danger?
I think the thing that got me most with this book was how unrealistic it felt. Every cop told Erica exactly what was happening during an open investigation, every detective and FBI agent believed her wild stories, every person she asked for help willingly helped her, even when it meant putting their lives in danger...it just made me cringe. No way is a cop telling a reporter details of an ongoing murder investigation! It just seems so impossible! Everything came so easy to her...she didn't have to work for anything, and it drove me nuts.
Everything was also really predictable. It was really easy to figure out from very early on who was behind it all.
On the plus side, it was easy to read and I got through it quickly. That said, I didn't enjoy it enough to read the sequel. I won The Newsmakers from Goodreads Giveaways, and it was my pleasure to provide an honest review.
I think the thing that got me most with this book was how unrealistic it felt. Every cop told Erica exactly what was happening during an open investigation, every detective and FBI agent believed her wild stories, every person she asked for help willingly helped her, even when it meant putting their lives in danger...it just made me cringe. No way is a cop telling a reporter details of an ongoing murder investigation! It just seems so impossible! Everything came so easy to her...she didn't have to work for anything, and it drove me nuts.
Everything was also really predictable. It was really easy to figure out from very early on who was behind it all.
On the plus side, it was easy to read and I got through it quickly. That said, I didn't enjoy it enough to read the sequel. I won The Newsmakers from Goodreads Giveaways, and it was my pleasure to provide an honest review.
October 25, 2022
Lis Wiehl crafts a convoluted story that kept me interested until the end. I've enjoyed her writings before, and was glad to see she had a new(er) series published.
However, I was rather disturbed by all of the profanity; though nothing compared to the average "R" film, how could Thomas Nelson, a Christian publisher, allow such language? Those who prefer their reading material free of such epithets shouldn't bother with this.
However, I was rather disturbed by all of the profanity; though nothing compared to the average "R" film, how could Thomas Nelson, a Christian publisher, allow such language? Those who prefer their reading material free of such epithets shouldn't bother with this.
October 16, 2015
I really enjoyed this book and perhaps I am been a little mean by only giving it 3 stars. A fast paced novel
that may be hard to believe but was very entertaining and a good read.
Erica Sparks is the latest news reporter to join Global News Network and is eager to make an impression on her boss. She very quickly gets into the action when news stories appear to fall into her lap and instant fame is achieved. Her first news outing sees her reporting on a ferry accident which occurs in the middle of her live report. Co-incidences continue to occur and a number of other stories have her in the right place at the right time. She begins to wonder if they are co-incidences or if there is more to it.
I like the style of Lis Wiehl's novels and find them fun to read and very entertaining.
On reflection I decided to amend my rating to a 4 star.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Thomas Nelson fiction for a copy of this novel in exchange for a honest review.
that may be hard to believe but was very entertaining and a good read.
Erica Sparks is the latest news reporter to join Global News Network and is eager to make an impression on her boss. She very quickly gets into the action when news stories appear to fall into her lap and instant fame is achieved. Her first news outing sees her reporting on a ferry accident which occurs in the middle of her live report. Co-incidences continue to occur and a number of other stories have her in the right place at the right time. She begins to wonder if they are co-incidences or if there is more to it.
I like the style of Lis Wiehl's novels and find them fun to read and very entertaining.
On reflection I decided to amend my rating to a 4 star.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Thomas Nelson fiction for a copy of this novel in exchange for a honest review.
April 23, 2017
Okay...going slow here. I've read other books by Ms. Wiehl and enjoy3ed most of them.
This one gets a 2 from me (I'm sure others will like more) so I guess I need to say why I dropped it to just above dislike and have decided not to follow with the next in the series.
We have a situation here I and I'm sure others here have seen before. This is a good idea, maybe even an inspired idea. It's one Ms. Wiehl seems almost uniquely equipped to write. However the execution here suffered from a couple of problems. First it seems (to me) from the writing that she's venting a little about things as the situation in the book is so obviously based on some things we've seen in the "news" (by that I mean the more scandal oriented type stories) of late. I say this in no judgemental way at all except that whatever the details of things that actually happened...the villain here is a bit heavy handed, almost a caricature.
The second thing is that (and again please read/hear this in a neutral tone, I mention it simply as something that is here) Ms. Wiehl believes strongly that women still aren't getting a fair shake. We're speaking of the "glass ceiling" here. Now whether you agree with her or not even whether she is correct or not isn't the issue. The problem is that this idea along with the situation above simply take over the book. If (as I was) you're actually actually interested in the main character and the story's plot the book can get very frustrating as both plot and character most of the time take a back seat to book's messages.
So sorry I can't go (for me that is) above 2 stars here...too bad.
This one gets a 2 from me (I'm sure others will like more) so I guess I need to say why I dropped it to just above dislike and have decided not to follow with the next in the series.
We have a situation here I and I'm sure others here have seen before. This is a good idea, maybe even an inspired idea. It's one Ms. Wiehl seems almost uniquely equipped to write. However the execution here suffered from a couple of problems. First it seems (to me) from the writing that she's venting a little about things as the situation in the book is so obviously based on some things we've seen in the "news" (by that I mean the more scandal oriented type stories) of late. I say this in no judgemental way at all except that whatever the details of things that actually happened...the villain here is a bit heavy handed, almost a caricature.
The second thing is that (and again please read/hear this in a neutral tone, I mention it simply as something that is here) Ms. Wiehl believes strongly that women still aren't getting a fair shake. We're speaking of the "glass ceiling" here. Now whether you agree with her or not even whether she is correct or not isn't the issue. The problem is that this idea along with the situation above simply take over the book. If (as I was) you're actually actually interested in the main character and the story's plot the book can get very frustrating as both plot and character most of the time take a back seat to book's messages.
So sorry I can't go (for me that is) above 2 stars here...too bad.
January 19, 2016
Erica is getting her big break, she's been hired on as a field reporter for the next up and coming channel, GNN. She's determined to grow from her past and find success, but there might be a cost. Nylan Hastings isn't thought of fondly and when Erica finds herself in the midst of several newsworthy moments she has to ask herself how. Something about the timeline just doesn't add up and when she starts doing her own detective work she might find that the accidents hit close to home. Is the success worth it?
I am going to review this book differently than I have in the past, not because it wasn't a good book, it's just how I wrote notes while I read.
Pros:
Though the story line is fairly predictable, the method in which Lis Wiehl gets you there is not. There are definitely some twists and turns, some characters that make things even more interesting, and a lot of suspense.
I like the idea of knowing the villain, but not knowing what he has planned. This works for the good and the bad of this book unfortunately, as at times it is done very well and at other times I just want to know why.
There are some shocking moments in this book and I loved reading those gritty scenes, because while they aren't pretty and packaged in a little bow, they do feel like reality.
I loved the secondary characters, the story came to life with their interactions with Erica, they have very distinct voices. I liked that we moved around the world to see various characters that tie everything together.
Cons:
The title gave away too much for me, it puts an idea into your head from the moment you start the book. The plot was very transparent, leaving little to the imagination.
We're asked to believe that Erica has overcome the odds and built up her career, of course with a little assistance, but it's hard to believe this women has ever done anything on her own. She's terribly vapid, really insecure, and hard to relate to. While I enjoyed her sleuthing, I just could never picture this women having this much strength.
The book sometimes reads as though it's a script for a movie or a television show: "Erica puts on her clothes" and "Erica washes off her makeup." It's a present tense third person style, but it doesn't feel consistent. Unfortunately, this took away from the story for me, because it was hard to keep reading.
As a person who is around several people who have overcome alcoholism I really would have expected more on the battle against it. Erica seems to want to give in more times than I can count and she fails to lean on her friends and family every time she thinks she should.
While it wasn't the best suspense novel I have read, it is an easy one to sit down and get through. At times predictable, but still shocking it is a worthwhile read. You'll find yourself wondering about your own news intake and where it comes from.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I am going to review this book differently than I have in the past, not because it wasn't a good book, it's just how I wrote notes while I read.
Pros:
Though the story line is fairly predictable, the method in which Lis Wiehl gets you there is not. There are definitely some twists and turns, some characters that make things even more interesting, and a lot of suspense.
I like the idea of knowing the villain, but not knowing what he has planned. This works for the good and the bad of this book unfortunately, as at times it is done very well and at other times I just want to know why.
There are some shocking moments in this book and I loved reading those gritty scenes, because while they aren't pretty and packaged in a little bow, they do feel like reality.
I loved the secondary characters, the story came to life with their interactions with Erica, they have very distinct voices. I liked that we moved around the world to see various characters that tie everything together.
Cons:
The title gave away too much for me, it puts an idea into your head from the moment you start the book. The plot was very transparent, leaving little to the imagination.
We're asked to believe that Erica has overcome the odds and built up her career, of course with a little assistance, but it's hard to believe this women has ever done anything on her own. She's terribly vapid, really insecure, and hard to relate to. While I enjoyed her sleuthing, I just could never picture this women having this much strength.
The book sometimes reads as though it's a script for a movie or a television show: "Erica puts on her clothes" and "Erica washes off her makeup." It's a present tense third person style, but it doesn't feel consistent. Unfortunately, this took away from the story for me, because it was hard to keep reading.
As a person who is around several people who have overcome alcoholism I really would have expected more on the battle against it. Erica seems to want to give in more times than I can count and she fails to lean on her friends and family every time she thinks she should.
While it wasn't the best suspense novel I have read, it is an easy one to sit down and get through. At times predictable, but still shocking it is a worthwhile read. You'll find yourself wondering about your own news intake and where it comes from.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 21, 2016
{Originally post on ChristianShelfEsteem.wordpress.com}
3.5/5 stars
Following a stint in rehab, Erica Sparks landed a new job as a field reporter for GNN. In a short amount of time, she is catapulted from obscurity to stardom. Initially Erica feels she has been in the right place at the right time to catch major breaking news, but soon she begins to wonder if something sinister is at play. With a story that could easily translate to the big screen, author Lis Wiehl has put herself on my radar.
I went into this story with an open mind, because Lis Wiehl is a new-to-me author. I believe the author's experience in News emanates from the main character and lends credibility to the story. With cyber security being such a hot topic in the media, Lis capitalizes on it well for this book, albeit on a rather grandiose and slightly unbelievable scale.
A few scenes involving Nylan Hastings compel me to mention that The Newsmakers is a little gritty and not a "clean read." For me, the romance between Erica and Greg came on a little too quickly, yet Erica's character is well developed with a solid backstory. Despite a few cable television worthy moments, the themes of forgiveness, faith, and restoration are woven throughout the book.
Overall, I'm happy to have been introduced to Lis Wiehl's writing. I believe this work of contemporary Christian fiction will appeal to broad audience both inside and outside of the genre.
I received this book free from the publisher through the NetGalley review program. 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.”
3.5/5 stars
Following a stint in rehab, Erica Sparks landed a new job as a field reporter for GNN. In a short amount of time, she is catapulted from obscurity to stardom. Initially Erica feels she has been in the right place at the right time to catch major breaking news, but soon she begins to wonder if something sinister is at play. With a story that could easily translate to the big screen, author Lis Wiehl has put herself on my radar.
I went into this story with an open mind, because Lis Wiehl is a new-to-me author. I believe the author's experience in News emanates from the main character and lends credibility to the story. With cyber security being such a hot topic in the media, Lis capitalizes on it well for this book, albeit on a rather grandiose and slightly unbelievable scale.
A few scenes involving Nylan Hastings compel me to mention that The Newsmakers is a little gritty and not a "clean read." For me, the romance between Erica and Greg came on a little too quickly, yet Erica's character is well developed with a solid backstory. Despite a few cable television worthy moments, the themes of forgiveness, faith, and restoration are woven throughout the book.
Overall, I'm happy to have been introduced to Lis Wiehl's writing. I believe this work of contemporary Christian fiction will appeal to broad audience both inside and outside of the genre.
I received this book free from the publisher through the NetGalley review program. 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.”
July 16, 2018
I don't know how, but as soon as I started reading this book I knew it would be an all out cringe-fest for me.
Are you ever able to tell exactly what kind of person wrote a book? from the clueless-but-still-funny Rick Riordan kind of author; to the sappy-and-heteronormative-but-still-able-to-connect-with-billions-worldwide Stephanie Meyer, there's usually a type for every style and genre of book you read.
Lis Weihl is probably the easiest author I've ever profiled based on reading style. By her annoying and overused descriptions of her main character being an honest and caring christian, with strong morals, and a body that is somehow perfect, blond hair, and obviously white skin. I've pegged her as the kind of white mom who eats quinoa for breakfast, never stops making kale smoothies, promises herself she's going to do yoga (but never does), and obviously has no clue about how to create an interesting character with any kind of dimension, or lack of familliar whitewashed personality.
Although I'll admit the plot was interesting, I was unable to continue with this book due to the cardboard personality of the main (and stereotypical personalities of all supporting) characters. Mixed with dry cliches, and a completely cringy (like what the fuck it was so cringy that it was funny) antagonist; I would give this a negative rating and even make a "books I hate" list just for this one book.
Are you ever able to tell exactly what kind of person wrote a book? from the clueless-but-still-funny Rick Riordan kind of author; to the sappy-and-heteronormative-but-still-able-to-connect-with-billions-worldwide Stephanie Meyer, there's usually a type for every style and genre of book you read.
Lis Weihl is probably the easiest author I've ever profiled based on reading style. By her annoying and overused descriptions of her main character being an honest and caring christian, with strong morals, and a body that is somehow perfect, blond hair, and obviously white skin. I've pegged her as the kind of white mom who eats quinoa for breakfast, never stops making kale smoothies, promises herself she's going to do yoga (but never does), and obviously has no clue about how to create an interesting character with any kind of dimension, or lack of familliar whitewashed personality.
Although I'll admit the plot was interesting, I was unable to continue with this book due to the cardboard personality of the main (and stereotypical personalities of all supporting) characters. Mixed with dry cliches, and a completely cringy (like what the fuck it was so cringy that it was funny) antagonist; I would give this a negative rating and even make a "books I hate" list just for this one book.
February 16, 2016
I enjoyed this book for the most part. I thought Erica's rise to fame was going a little fast. It was strange that she just "happened" to be at all these events. It was a great story however and I enjoyed reading it. It definitely would be very scary if any of it was able to come to fruition.
Unfortunately, though I did not want to, I had to put the book down several times and tend to holiday doings, so it took me a little longer than I wanted to get through the book and find out just exactly what was going on. Normally, it would have been one of those that I would not have been able to put down. I had never read anything by this author so I wasn't sure what I was going to be in for. After reading this book and hearing from several reviews that it's not really her best, I will definitely be reading more of Lis Wiehl.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson for approving my request and to Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. I was definitely entertained and would definitely recommend.
Unfortunately, though I did not want to, I had to put the book down several times and tend to holiday doings, so it took me a little longer than I wanted to get through the book and find out just exactly what was going on. Normally, it would have been one of those that I would not have been able to put down. I had never read anything by this author so I wasn't sure what I was going to be in for. After reading this book and hearing from several reviews that it's not really her best, I will definitely be reading more of Lis Wiehl.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson for approving my request and to Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. I was definitely entertained and would definitely recommend.
January 14, 2016
I have read several books from this author. I instantly became a fan of the author's writing. A good connection with the characters and the story. However it has been a little while since I have picked up a book from this author to read. So when I saw this new book I decided now was a good time to revisit this author's writing.
Again I able to jump right into this story with no problems. In fact, I was watching some television when I started this book. I actually could not wait for my show to be done so I could turn off the television to really focus my attention on reading this book. As much as I did like this book the only reason I was not in love with it is because I felt that the only strong person in this book was Erica. She lead the story and showed she was not just beauty but also brains. Plus, I was not feeling the romantic angle between she and her producer. Otherwise, I enjoyed this book a lot and plan to go back and check out prior novels and can't wait to read the next book from this author.
Again I able to jump right into this story with no problems. In fact, I was watching some television when I started this book. I actually could not wait for my show to be done so I could turn off the television to really focus my attention on reading this book. As much as I did like this book the only reason I was not in love with it is because I felt that the only strong person in this book was Erica. She lead the story and showed she was not just beauty but also brains. Plus, I was not feeling the romantic angle between she and her producer. Otherwise, I enjoyed this book a lot and plan to go back and check out prior novels and can't wait to read the next book from this author.
June 7, 2016
Not recommended as a Christian Fiction Novel.
December 21, 2015
The main character needs a backbone transplant!
Celebrity seems to be worshipped these days often for no other reason than someone has managed to get their face on TV or has amassed money by making outrageous comments or pandering to the masses. Talent seems to have taken much of a back seat in today’s world and anyone who is the voice of quiet reason is often derided and pilloried.
So what has this statement got to do with “The Newsmakers”?
Erica Sparks is the central figure. She is an anchor person for TV news and lands a job at a fast developing station and is plucked from obscurity and projected to overnight fame. She is also an alcoholic and a failed mother with a flawed personality who collapses when presented by her past or when a sassy, ambitious rival is nasty to her. Get a life dear.
The author asks the reader to believe that her character is talented and has earned her position despite the fact that she has been selected by her new boss to build up only to be knocked down again to suit his twisted ambitions for his new station. Clearly anyone who has worked at this level in the industry would have developed larger cojones than Ms Sparks but there is absolutely no evidence that she has backbone or is deserving of the position she holds.
The plot was transparent and not a lot which happened came as a surprise. It reminded me of the old horror films where the character on screen is approaching a door when everyone watching is screaming “don’t open the door!” but she does anyway. If she was a true investigative reporter she might have caught on a lot earlier than she did that not all was right within her new organisation.
The writing though was excellent and it was an easy read which raised the rating to 3 from 2 stars although the action on the last page beggars belief!
mr zorg
Breakaway Reviewers were given a copy of this book to review
Celebrity seems to be worshipped these days often for no other reason than someone has managed to get their face on TV or has amassed money by making outrageous comments or pandering to the masses. Talent seems to have taken much of a back seat in today’s world and anyone who is the voice of quiet reason is often derided and pilloried.
So what has this statement got to do with “The Newsmakers”?
Erica Sparks is the central figure. She is an anchor person for TV news and lands a job at a fast developing station and is plucked from obscurity and projected to overnight fame. She is also an alcoholic and a failed mother with a flawed personality who collapses when presented by her past or when a sassy, ambitious rival is nasty to her. Get a life dear.
The author asks the reader to believe that her character is talented and has earned her position despite the fact that she has been selected by her new boss to build up only to be knocked down again to suit his twisted ambitions for his new station. Clearly anyone who has worked at this level in the industry would have developed larger cojones than Ms Sparks but there is absolutely no evidence that she has backbone or is deserving of the position she holds.
The plot was transparent and not a lot which happened came as a surprise. It reminded me of the old horror films where the character on screen is approaching a door when everyone watching is screaming “don’t open the door!” but she does anyway. If she was a true investigative reporter she might have caught on a lot earlier than she did that not all was right within her new organisation.
The writing though was excellent and it was an easy read which raised the rating to 3 from 2 stars although the action on the last page beggars belief!
mr zorg
Breakaway Reviewers were given a copy of this book to review
August 10, 2016
Read the full review: http://sarah-plainandaverage.blogspot...
Overall, I was completely and wholly disappointed in this novel by Lis Wiehl. The story plot and mystery itself had potential for being an amazing, gripping thriller. But there was a ridiculous amount of language and alcohol and sensuality that made it far too distracting to enjoy. I am sad to say, and am completely surprised having read Ms Wiehl's other novels, that this one is barely worthy of even two stars. But that is all I will give it.
Set in New York, with all its diversity and culture and such, I can understand how the writer would wish to capture the good and the bad of that city (or any other city for that matter). But I also know what makes an awesome story, and there are things that are best left out, no matter how true to reality they are now. With all that said, the ending was rather cheesy. [SPOILER] Erica gets a call from the president saying "Your country needs you." And she responds with, "I'm listening." I mean, really? Okay, okay, simply my opinion. But that turned me off. Very predictable.
I will say this, I noticed she co-authored with someone I had never heard of before. And while I am hesitant to lay blame, remembering how much I enjoyed her Triple Threat series (and yes, they are murder mysteries also, so there are crimes and blood and a wee bit of content in them as well, but nowhere NEAR as much as in this one. . .), I can't help but think the language and content can be "credited" to the co-author. However, I simply do not know. What I do know, is that this novel will never have a home on my shelves and that I would not recommend to anyone.
Overall, I was completely and wholly disappointed in this novel by Lis Wiehl. The story plot and mystery itself had potential for being an amazing, gripping thriller. But there was a ridiculous amount of language and alcohol and sensuality that made it far too distracting to enjoy. I am sad to say, and am completely surprised having read Ms Wiehl's other novels, that this one is barely worthy of even two stars. But that is all I will give it.
Set in New York, with all its diversity and culture and such, I can understand how the writer would wish to capture the good and the bad of that city (or any other city for that matter). But I also know what makes an awesome story, and there are things that are best left out, no matter how true to reality they are now. With all that said, the ending was rather cheesy. [SPOILER] Erica gets a call from the president saying "Your country needs you." And she responds with, "I'm listening." I mean, really? Okay, okay, simply my opinion. But that turned me off. Very predictable.
I will say this, I noticed she co-authored with someone I had never heard of before. And while I am hesitant to lay blame, remembering how much I enjoyed her Triple Threat series (and yes, they are murder mysteries also, so there are crimes and blood and a wee bit of content in them as well, but nowhere NEAR as much as in this one. . .), I can't help but think the language and content can be "credited" to the co-author. However, I simply do not know. What I do know, is that this novel will never have a home on my shelves and that I would not recommend to anyone.
Read
February 3, 2016
RESEÑA COMPLETA EN ESPAÑOL
I don’t fully recommend this book.
I don’t usually write reviews criticizing books but beyond my personal tastes, I always rescued the best of each novel and emphasize it. However -as eventually had to happen- this time I can’t do the same, so it’s fifty-fifty. Confused? Let me explain.
Lis Wiehl is an author whose books -Triple Threat- I enjoyed, so that created a good precedent to read her new book. However, there are certain things in this book that seems a little questionable, and although I'm very open-minded, I think it's necessary to point out to warn those who want to read this novel.
-The protagonist reads a famous erotic book, which I won’t mention because that would be advertising.
-Approval of homosexuality. While everyone has their position on this issue, I think that this aspect goes against what the Bible says, therefore, I don’t understand how it appears in a Christian book.
Now, I don’t say that I didn’t like this book at all, in fact, the story is captivating because it makes you think if this can actually -or is- happening in reality. I'm not very happy with the narrative tense, but I think it wasn’t hard to read.
In conclusion, I leave to the discretion of each decide whether or not read to this book, but I think it's safe to say that this is not a Christian novel.
-I recieved a copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion-
January 25, 2016
Predictable storyline, simple thoughts and dialogue, flat and fake characters. Not worth finishing. I read about half and couldn't waste my time with the rest, so flipped to the last 2 chapters and it ended just as ridiculous as it began. Too many books out there with actual depth that are worth reading. (library copy...Glad I did not waste my money).
May 5, 2017
I have thoroughly enjoyed all of the other books by Wiehl that I have read, but this one was dull, unengaging, and written in third person present tense which just laid out as awkward. There was too much detail in insignificant things that made reading it painful. I quit reading by chapter 20.
August 3, 2017
This is the 3rd or 4th Lis Wiehl novel I've read and my favorite thus far. Heroine Erica Sparks comes from a family with little money and nearly zero love for her. She works hard to press through low expectations to go to college and have a career. It isn't all balloons and cake for Erica after she leaves home for college. She is also fallible and is a recovering alcoholic. I really liked Erica and was routing for her to persevere.
The story line was compelling and the backdrop of a news media outlet interesting. The suspense was light, but I found myself engaged in the novel and wanting to know how and if Erica was going to be able to solve two mysteries.
What fell short for me was the romance. I didn't like Greg, but his character as a co-worker (not a love interest) was important.
This was an enjoyable novel and I look forward to the next in the series.
The story line was compelling and the backdrop of a news media outlet interesting. The suspense was light, but I found myself engaged in the novel and wanting to know how and if Erica was going to be able to solve two mysteries.
What fell short for me was the romance. I didn't like Greg, but his character as a co-worker (not a love interest) was important.
This was an enjoyable novel and I look forward to the next in the series.
January 5, 2016
The Newsmakers – Lis Wiehl and Sebastian Stuart (3-3.5 Stars)
Lis Wiehl and Sebastian Stuart wrote The Newsmakers, a novel about a tenacious television reporter, Erica Sparks. After losing custody of her daughter to her ex-husband, Erica battles to overcome her own demons to succeed in her chosen profession. When she is noticed by the executives of Global News Network, she believes that her star is finally on the rise. On her earliest assignments for GNN, a series of convenient events place Erica at the center of national headlines. Soon, Erica’s reporting catapults GNN’s ratings to reach new heights, while Erica herself becomes a star journalist at the network. However, Erica and her colleagues soon find themselves in danger, as their investigation of the events that made them famous puts them in the crosshairs of some of the nation’s most diabolical criminal elements.
Ms. Wiehl and Mr. Stuart create a captivating story for the age of breaking news and celebrity journalists. As an experienced commentator on Fox News, Ms. Wiehl brings a particularly insightful perspective to the novel’s characters, many of whom work within the halls of GNN’s headquarters.
Overall, I was left with mixed feelings regarding The Newsmakers. With a decent, though slightly predictable storyline, the novel offered an interesting read in the suspense category. Likewise, the story and characters were relatively interesting and developed. In comparison, the writing style was quite poor. Within the advance reader’s copy (which is considered to be an uncorrected proof), the number of editing errors were plentiful. Regardless of those errors that could be considered minor, the novel’s writing style incorporated sentence structure and tense use that were entirely inappropriate for a fictional work. These were not the sort of errors to be corrected by the final version, as they represented the style of the authors themselves. As a person with extensive professional writing and editing experience, I found the writing significantly distracted from an otherwise decent story. In the end, I finished the book to see if my initial assumptions about the storyline were correct, rather than due to the authors’ writing efforts.
Special thanks to The Fiction Guild for the advanced copy of The Newsmakers!
Thanks!
Brittany at the Books and Biscuits Blog
PS. To see the full review, please visit http://booksandbiscuits.com/blog/2016.... Thanks!
Lis Wiehl and Sebastian Stuart wrote The Newsmakers, a novel about a tenacious television reporter, Erica Sparks. After losing custody of her daughter to her ex-husband, Erica battles to overcome her own demons to succeed in her chosen profession. When she is noticed by the executives of Global News Network, she believes that her star is finally on the rise. On her earliest assignments for GNN, a series of convenient events place Erica at the center of national headlines. Soon, Erica’s reporting catapults GNN’s ratings to reach new heights, while Erica herself becomes a star journalist at the network. However, Erica and her colleagues soon find themselves in danger, as their investigation of the events that made them famous puts them in the crosshairs of some of the nation’s most diabolical criminal elements.
Ms. Wiehl and Mr. Stuart create a captivating story for the age of breaking news and celebrity journalists. As an experienced commentator on Fox News, Ms. Wiehl brings a particularly insightful perspective to the novel’s characters, many of whom work within the halls of GNN’s headquarters.
Overall, I was left with mixed feelings regarding The Newsmakers. With a decent, though slightly predictable storyline, the novel offered an interesting read in the suspense category. Likewise, the story and characters were relatively interesting and developed. In comparison, the writing style was quite poor. Within the advance reader’s copy (which is considered to be an uncorrected proof), the number of editing errors were plentiful. Regardless of those errors that could be considered minor, the novel’s writing style incorporated sentence structure and tense use that were entirely inappropriate for a fictional work. These were not the sort of errors to be corrected by the final version, as they represented the style of the authors themselves. As a person with extensive professional writing and editing experience, I found the writing significantly distracted from an otherwise decent story. In the end, I finished the book to see if my initial assumptions about the storyline were correct, rather than due to the authors’ writing efforts.
Special thanks to The Fiction Guild for the advanced copy of The Newsmakers!
Thanks!
Brittany at the Books and Biscuits Blog
PS. To see the full review, please visit http://booksandbiscuits.com/blog/2016.... Thanks!
February 1, 2016
The first thing I noticed on page one was the story was written in third person present tense. I cringed, because I have a harder time settling into the fictive experience when a story is written in present tense. This is my own personal bias, and I never hold it against an author. While reading THE NEWSMAKERS, I was highly aware of the present tense for the entire story.
While the plot was pretty obvious from the blurb, the story was well written and I enjoyed reading along to see how the events would play out. There were no surprises along the way, plot-wise, but there were a few choices made by the main character, Erica, that surprised me. I love to be surprised.
I really enjoyed the secondary characters that Erica worked with at GNN, but some of the character development felt like it was delivered to me on a newsfeed with just the facts. There were also times where I felt like I was reading the logs of a GPS: "They take off, heading up Route 959. ...They pass under the Dolphin Expressway and turn west on Perimeter Road. ... They turn right on Milam Dairy Road, which turns into NW Seventy-Second Avenue." (page 326 of the Advance Reader's Copy)
Overall, it was a great read. I enjoyed it, and I'd recommend it to book clubs. There are plenty of great topics for discussion within the pages of this story!
And in case it matters to you: the story had no sex, foul language, or significant violence.
My favorite line from the book: "Erica faces the bitter irony that she, who is so committed to finding the truth, may be undone by her own sin of omission." (page 288 of the ARC)
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
While the plot was pretty obvious from the blurb, the story was well written and I enjoyed reading along to see how the events would play out. There were no surprises along the way, plot-wise, but there were a few choices made by the main character, Erica, that surprised me. I love to be surprised.
I really enjoyed the secondary characters that Erica worked with at GNN, but some of the character development felt like it was delivered to me on a newsfeed with just the facts. There were also times where I felt like I was reading the logs of a GPS: "They take off, heading up Route 959. ...They pass under the Dolphin Expressway and turn west on Perimeter Road. ... They turn right on Milam Dairy Road, which turns into NW Seventy-Second Avenue." (page 326 of the Advance Reader's Copy)
Overall, it was a great read. I enjoyed it, and I'd recommend it to book clubs. There are plenty of great topics for discussion within the pages of this story!
And in case it matters to you: the story had no sex, foul language, or significant violence.
My favorite line from the book: "Erica faces the bitter irony that she, who is so committed to finding the truth, may be undone by her own sin of omission." (page 288 of the ARC)
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Read
February 12, 2016When Erica Sparks is offered a job at GNN in New York City it is a dream come true. When a ferry accident happens right before her eyes Erica and her crew catch it all on live TV and that event launches Erica's career. When another tragedy occurs while Erica is on air she launches an investigation into the 2 events.
Nyles Hastings, the owner of GNN, is proud of his new superstar news reporter. But Nyles isn't looking for Erica to investigate the two incidents. Nyles would rather have Erica behind an anchor desk where he can control the stories she reports.
Being an anchor behind the desk is not Erica's style. She wants to be out breaking the news stories and she can't let the two accidents go uninvestigated. Especially when someone helping her is put in the hospital in order to be silenced. As Erica's investigation brings her closer to the truth her life and those she loves are put in danger.
I've really become quite a fan of Lis Wiehl's writing and found this new book to be quite entertaining and exciting. From the beginning she keeps the reader involved in the suspense and investigation. I found that the behind the scenes information of what goes into a news story was interesting and added depth and believe-ability to the story. There was a bit of romance which helped move the story along and gave Erica's character credibility. I liked that Erica had a past and saw that that would be used against her eventually. I also liked that Erica's character was "nice" and not a barracuda like some newscasters come across. Apparently this is the beginning of a new series so I look forward to seeing what comes next.
Nyles Hastings, the owner of GNN, is proud of his new superstar news reporter. But Nyles isn't looking for Erica to investigate the two incidents. Nyles would rather have Erica behind an anchor desk where he can control the stories she reports.
Being an anchor behind the desk is not Erica's style. She wants to be out breaking the news stories and she can't let the two accidents go uninvestigated. Especially when someone helping her is put in the hospital in order to be silenced. As Erica's investigation brings her closer to the truth her life and those she loves are put in danger.
I've really become quite a fan of Lis Wiehl's writing and found this new book to be quite entertaining and exciting. From the beginning she keeps the reader involved in the suspense and investigation. I found that the behind the scenes information of what goes into a news story was interesting and added depth and believe-ability to the story. There was a bit of romance which helped move the story along and gave Erica's character credibility. I liked that Erica had a past and saw that that would be used against her eventually. I also liked that Erica's character was "nice" and not a barracuda like some newscasters come across. Apparently this is the beginning of a new series so I look forward to seeing what comes next.
February 27, 2016
A Thriller Set in the Cable News Business
Erica Sparks has just taken a job with a new cable news station, GNN, Global News Network. She's thrilled to be in New York and hungry for success. Her first assignment, to interview the Duchess of Cambridge, turns into an unexpected news break when a ferry crashes into the seawall very close to where the duchess is scheduled to have lunch.
The news story catapults Erica into one of the top reporters at GNN and opens her to the jealousy of rival reporters. It also brings her to the notice of the billionaire owner of the network. The immediate fame has payoffs, but as Erica and her colleagues pursue the story about the ferry accident, it leads them into danger.
This is a very fast paced read with action based on current events. If you like a thriller that moves quickly from crisis to crisis, this is a good one. However, the writing is merely okay and the character development is minimal. We learn a great deal about Erica, her past and her drive to succeed. However, the other characters have almost no background information and act as foils for Erica.
Although this book is sold by a Christian publisher, it's not typically Christian fiction. Erica doesn't rely on God or pray, except for the Serenity Prayer. None of the other characters appear to have any religious conviction. If you read secular thrillers, this isn't a problem, but if you're looking for a typical Christian novel, this may disappoint.
I received this book from BookLook Bloggers for this review.
Erica Sparks has just taken a job with a new cable news station, GNN, Global News Network. She's thrilled to be in New York and hungry for success. Her first assignment, to interview the Duchess of Cambridge, turns into an unexpected news break when a ferry crashes into the seawall very close to where the duchess is scheduled to have lunch.
The news story catapults Erica into one of the top reporters at GNN and opens her to the jealousy of rival reporters. It also brings her to the notice of the billionaire owner of the network. The immediate fame has payoffs, but as Erica and her colleagues pursue the story about the ferry accident, it leads them into danger.
This is a very fast paced read with action based on current events. If you like a thriller that moves quickly from crisis to crisis, this is a good one. However, the writing is merely okay and the character development is minimal. We learn a great deal about Erica, her past and her drive to succeed. However, the other characters have almost no background information and act as foils for Erica.
Although this book is sold by a Christian publisher, it's not typically Christian fiction. Erica doesn't rely on God or pray, except for the Serenity Prayer. None of the other characters appear to have any religious conviction. If you read secular thrillers, this isn't a problem, but if you're looking for a typical Christian novel, this may disappoint.
I received this book from BookLook Bloggers for this review.
December 21, 2015
Erica Sparks just landed her dream job of being a field reporter for an up-and-coming news agency. She quickly finds herself caught in the middle of a couple developing stories and with bulldog tenacity tries to ferret out the truth even when others tell her to move on.
This story reminded me of “The Firm.” Like Mitch in that book, Erica finds out that her new company is not as was presented and things quickly get dangerous and threatening for her. There is a lot of tension and danger and there are plenty of creepy characters.
This book did a good job of showing that our decisions have consequences and often come with a cost. Erica has to decide what it’s worth to her to have a prestigious job in the news industry. She is haunted by her mom’s last words to her as she entered college, “But just remember, you can change a lot of things in your life, but you can’t ever, ever change where you come from. And deep down, you’ll never be better than any of us” (location 1940). Erica has made a lot of mistakes and believes this is her fresh start. But can she outrun her past?
The third person narration was a little stilted for me at times. But otherwise, I really enjoyed this book. It was full of suspense and action. Erica felt real to me. She had real problems and real strengths. It was a fast, exciting read. Lis Wiehl books never disappoint.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson for providing me with a free e-copy of this book for the purpose of this review.
This story reminded me of “The Firm.” Like Mitch in that book, Erica finds out that her new company is not as was presented and things quickly get dangerous and threatening for her. There is a lot of tension and danger and there are plenty of creepy characters.
This book did a good job of showing that our decisions have consequences and often come with a cost. Erica has to decide what it’s worth to her to have a prestigious job in the news industry. She is haunted by her mom’s last words to her as she entered college, “But just remember, you can change a lot of things in your life, but you can’t ever, ever change where you come from. And deep down, you’ll never be better than any of us” (location 1940). Erica has made a lot of mistakes and believes this is her fresh start. But can she outrun her past?
The third person narration was a little stilted for me at times. But otherwise, I really enjoyed this book. It was full of suspense and action. Erica felt real to me. She had real problems and real strengths. It was a fast, exciting read. Lis Wiehl books never disappoint.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson for providing me with a free e-copy of this book for the purpose of this review.
February 12, 2016
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
The Newsmakers is another intriguing novel from Lis Wiehl (with Sebastian Stuart), as television reporter Erica Sparks starts a new job for Global News Network in New York City. She witnesses and reports a couple tragedies, and quickly her career skyrockets with fame and popularity. Driven to uncover the truth, she investigates the causes of the tragedies and find herself in more and more danger, surrounded by characters of questionable trust. At the center of the action, drama, and suspense, Erica Sparks is a great character with a challenging background and an admirable pursuit of justice. Overall, The Newsmakers is a fascinating read and I really enjoyed it. I look forward to reading more from Lis Wiehl, and I would definitely recommend this novel to readers hoping for a bit of mystery and suspense.
Thanks to BookLook Bloggers, I received a copy of The Newsmakers and the opportunity to honestly review it. I was not required to write a positive review, and all 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.”)
The Newsmakers is another intriguing novel from Lis Wiehl (with Sebastian Stuart), as television reporter Erica Sparks starts a new job for Global News Network in New York City. She witnesses and reports a couple tragedies, and quickly her career skyrockets with fame and popularity. Driven to uncover the truth, she investigates the causes of the tragedies and find herself in more and more danger, surrounded by characters of questionable trust. At the center of the action, drama, and suspense, Erica Sparks is a great character with a challenging background and an admirable pursuit of justice. Overall, The Newsmakers is a fascinating read and I really enjoyed it. I look forward to reading more from Lis Wiehl, and I would definitely recommend this novel to readers hoping for a bit of mystery and suspense.
Thanks to BookLook Bloggers, I received a copy of The Newsmakers and the opportunity to honestly review it. I was not required to write a positive review, and all 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.”)
February 16, 2016
Erica Sparks is convinced that she has reached the top echelon of television news when she is invited to join Global News Network, an up and coming news organization that small town girls like herself, could only dream about working for. Sadly, her first assignment is marred by tragedy; tragedy that she expertly films and reports, catapulting her name and face onto every major network in the world. Eerily, her second major assignment includes similar circumstances, and Erica begins to wonder if there is more going on than appears on the surface of her unprecedented success.
After engaging the help of a co-worker, Erika fears that her request has landed her friend at near death. Confiding in her attractive producer, Greg Underwood, also seems risky at best. Erica develops the eerie sensation that GNN's owner, Nylan Hastings, is not only brilliant, but psychopathic in his drive to reach the top; expertly eliminating anyone who proves detrimental to his cause. The cat- and- mouse game reaches another level when sordid details about her past are threatened to be revealed and Erica fears that her passion for journalism will prove to be fatal.
This sensational thriller is a page turner and gives the reader a glimpse, albeit fictional, into the world of global "newsmakers".
After engaging the help of a co-worker, Erika fears that her request has landed her friend at near death. Confiding in her attractive producer, Greg Underwood, also seems risky at best. Erica develops the eerie sensation that GNN's owner, Nylan Hastings, is not only brilliant, but psychopathic in his drive to reach the top; expertly eliminating anyone who proves detrimental to his cause. The cat- and- mouse game reaches another level when sordid details about her past are threatened to be revealed and Erica fears that her passion for journalism will prove to be fatal.
This sensational thriller is a page turner and gives the reader a glimpse, albeit fictional, into the world of global "newsmakers".
September 18, 2015
Despite personal troubles and professional setbacks, Erica Sparks has finally gotten her big break. As the newest reporter for the up and coming media station Global News Network, Erica is determined to make her mark and become one of the powerhouses at GNN. She gets her wish sooner than she expected when, as she is working on her first assignment, a horrific ferry accident occurs right in the middle of her live report. Her insta-fame from this incident has barely begun to fade when she again happens to be in the right place at the wrong time, and breaks another hot story. Erica is thrilled with the success she has achieved, but she also begins to wonder if these are really coincidences or if something more sinister is going on.
This book was too fun! Timely and intriguing, with a flawed but likeable main character, realistic situations and non-stop action, this book is a winner. I am very excited that this is the start of a new series- I'm definitely looking forward to more of the Erica Sparks Effect!
This ARC was obtained at BEA15, in exchange for an honest review.
This book was too fun! Timely and intriguing, with a flawed but likeable main character, realistic situations and non-stop action, this book is a winner. I am very excited that this is the start of a new series- I'm definitely looking forward to more of the Erica Sparks Effect!
This ARC was obtained at BEA15, in exchange for an honest review.
November 28, 2016
The best thing about the book is that the chapters were short which made for easy reading. I rather liked the main character Erika in the beginning, she had flaws and fears like a real person. But since you know from the book jacket that at some point her life is going to be in danger, it doesn't take long to figure out why and from who. But Erika plods along uncovering one thing after another until she knows for sure who we all knew from the beginning is the villain of the story. Then, she becomes superwoman tackling an assasin who is carrying a hand-launched missile and saves the Vice President from being blown up on Air Force 2. Amazon buys the CNN-like network that she works for and she gets to keep her fame and fortune, even becoming Barbara Walter's most interesting person of the year. Yikes. This is book 1 of a series that I hoped would be good but I have no interest in reading anything else by this author, a Fox news correspondent.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2016
Lis Wiehl writes good suspense and I have really enjoyed her previous novels. This book, while good, was not as suspenseful as her previous stories. I did find the story line intriguing though because of the behind the scenes look at a “news maker” and TV. Some of the themes went a little far in my opinion (a man’s fantasy about his coworker) and some of the references I didn’t think were necessary. Aside from that I found the character of Erica to be interesting and I think she really grew throughout the book.
This book was enjoyable and had some mystery but not what I would call suspense.
Four stars.
“I received this book from Booklook Bloggers for free in exchange for an honest review.”
This book was enjoyable and had some mystery but not what I would call suspense.
Four stars.
“I received this book from Booklook Bloggers for free in exchange for an honest review.”
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