The Separatists

Newsmakers #3

by Lis Wiehl, Sebastian Stuart

When America is threatened from within on a scale not seen since the Civil War, Erica Sparks is on the front lines reporting. But what can she do to stop it?

Star newsmaker Erica Sparks is in Bismark, North Dakota, covering the first recall of a governor in that state since 1921. Mary Bellamy, who is trying to unseat the current governor, keeps talking about going through the political process to gain more freedom for the state. She seems peaceful and level-headed . . . but with other secessionist groups making noise around the country, Erica can't help but wonder what Mary's goal really is.

Then Erica receives a desperate call from a woman downstairs in the lobby of her hotel. Erica goes down to meet her and discovers the woman in the ladies room with her throat slit. There's obviously more going on here--and someone doesn't want Erica looking below the surface.

Meanwhile, Erica's marriage to Greg Underwood seems headed for disaster . . . and her relationship with her teenage daughter Jenny may not be far behind.

Erica feels a civil war looming in her own home, and all the signs indicate that military action will be required in North Dakota. And then she discovers that the threat to all Americans is even greater than anyone imagined. Can she find the answers to save her family and her country in time?

Genres: Fiction, Christian, Thriller, Mystery, Contemporary, Mystery Thriller, Suspense

340 pages, Hardcover

First published June 27, 2017

About the author

Lis 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.

Reviews

[Gary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in the 'Newsmakers' series by author Lis Wiehl. I really enjoy this series and find it a refreshing change from the normal psychological thrillers I also enjoy. Erica Sparks is a News Reporter at the top of her game and is never far from the action both in her personal life and her work.
In this latest book she is launching a new investigative news show and after getting the green light from her network she flies to Bismarck, North Dakota, to investigate Take Back Our Homeland, the largest secessionist group. What she finds is profoundly disturbing, a growing threat to the future of our union.
The book is full of action and suspense and the usual amount of personal trouble all which succeeds in making this a very entertaining read.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Thomas Nelson for supplying a copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review.

[Jerry (Rebel With a Massive Media Library) · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing read with plenty of twists and turns, especially in the last few pages. The ending--which I won't reveal here--has me curious if we'll get another installment in this series; I'd love to see the story continue. Are you listening, Ms. Wiehl?

[Hristina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Copy received through NetGalley

This series had a great start, but I’m not so impressed by its sequels.
The writing style is consistent, but I’m kind of disappointed by the plot. There was so much going on, and it was kind of unrealistic. I liked the fast pace (then again I always do), and I loved the suspenseful build up, but the ending was so sudden, it was unsatisfying. I loved that we got to see a bit more character development than the last book, but I’m starting to feel like there is a pattern to the way these books are written, and I really wish to see something out of the box.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice conclusion to the Newsmakers Series!

Main character Erica Sparks is a flawed human as all of us are. She is driven to succeed and this creates friction with her husband and daughter. While I enjoyed Erica's character growth, the focus of her news story was even better.

The main story line is about a state that plans to secede from the union. While I've considered aspects of this, the novel brought to light some things I'd not considered before. Incredibly interesting.

There were a couple of parts that made me wince. These parts tied well into the story line, but still a bit hard to read.

I look forward to what Wiehl has to offer next.

My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.

[Randal White · Rating 2 out of 5]

A timely, interesting concept for a novel. What would happen if one of the states (in this case, North Dakota) attempted to secede from the United States? What with the red/blue divisions we are currently experiencing, I did not find the idea to be too "far-out-there".
And the author wrote a good story, for the most part. I found the main character development to be well thought out, and the writing "flowed" well.
But.....(spoilers ahead).
I found the idea that a small number (maybe 5) of people could overthrow a state's government and declare it's removal from the union to be unrealistic. Honestly, just because someone is elected governor means that all other government agencies are going to throw their lot in with her? The US Senators, US Congressmen, the Federal (and State and local) law enforcement agencies? And that the US President is just going to stand by as this group takes over military bases, makes globally reaching decisions, and threatens war? In fact, no one, not the FBI/CIA/Homeland Security, is able to root out any of this, but a simple news reporter could? Not hardly.
And then there are the sloppy mistakes, somethings that should have been caught in editing. "She also got a permit and bought a handgun-she refuses to touch an automatic, she considers them killing machines that should be banned" (uhh, handguns cannot be "automatic"?). And identifying the second in command of an important military base as a Corporal. And having to identify any (several) characters as being "black"; you didn't id the other characters as white/asian/etc, why does it matter if they are black? Or charging a Canadian citizen with treason against the US, is that really an option?
Despite the main character being kidnapped, threatened, having inside info on numerous murders, she blindly plunges forward, never alerting law enforcement. And despite her having knowledge about where nuclear missiles are being readied against the US in Canada, instead of calling out the calvary, she flies to Canada, where she single-handedly takes down the base where the missiles are, preventing their launch in the nick of time (where they were to be launched with the stereotypical red button).
And, finally, after approximately 330 pages, the entire "suspenseful" ending is done in about 3 pages. Very rushed and unsatisfying.
I would really like to see this concept rewritten in a more thought out, "believable" manner. That would be a good book!

[Pamela Small · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Separatist is exciting, face paced, and suspenseful! Ms. Wiehl has deftly woven an interesting - and terrifyingly possible- political thriller of a grass roots, rogue rebellion within the heartland of America. Disgruntled citizens unite to form the Homeland, an independent, autonomous nation in protest to the ever expanding Federal government. However, the founders of the Homeland are not the purists they want to portray; they are corrupt and complicit in machevillan mayhem and murder.! The climax is riveting, and the denouement is satisfying! Good characterization of Erica produces a likeable protagonist.! The epilogue sets up for a sequel! I can't wait for the next installment! Thanks to Thomas Nelson publisher and NetGalley for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Callie · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.5/5 stars.

I finished this book in one afternoon, not because I was enjoying it, but because I knew if I put it down I would probably not want to pick it up again.

The plot line of this book was interesting enough, and I thought the political thriller aspect of it was written well enough. Erica is a news anchor, who investigates separatist movements around the country for a news special. Little does she know that one of them is gaining a lot of political traction and is a much bigger threat than it initially seems.

Like I said, the political thriller part of the plot was interesting enough, but a few things ruined this book for me.

Unnecessary Political Jabs

Within the first couple chapters there are disparaging remarks about at least three different political opinions, all of which are held by the "right-wing". Erica is the "good" guy in the story, and her political opinions are no secret in this book as she expresses her more liberal viewpoints. The "bad guys" in the book come from the Republican Party or "right-wing".

I thought this was poorly done. I've read Wiehl's novels in the past, and they never got politically partisan in this way. This novel could have been written without all the political statements, and it would have been much better.

The Fact That It Was Published By A Christian Publisher

There was absolutely no faith element to this story at all, which surprises me since it's coming from Thomas Nelson. In addition there was some content I was surprised at in a book coming from a Christian publisher, such as minor cuss words, infidelity presented as no big deal, talk of women faking orga.sms, references to po.rno.graphic TV shows, etc. I was actually really disappointed that Thomas Nelson published this, and I don't appreciate the trend of publishing secular books under a Christian publishing company.

The Main Character

I just really disliked the main character. She drove me nuts to be honest. Half the book was about the political plot, but the other half was about Erica's personal problems, and I honestly just wanted to slap her. She was so self-centered and narcissistic. She was stuck up, expressing disdain for small towns and the people in them. She didn't seem to think much of her husband and his career, and was so insensitive about the fact that she was in a better position in her career than he was. She seemed cold-hearted, snapping pictures of a corpse she found in a bathroom so she could investigate for her story. She was an awful mother, thinking her daughter was out to get her or ruin her career. She obliviously thinks her daughter is jealous of her, when anyone could see that her daughter just wants her mom to be with her more. She even tells her daughter in the end that she will never be the mother her daughter wants her to be because she gets annoyed at the demands of motherhood and loves her career (nice, huh?). She was hypocritical, despising the villain's ambition and quest for power when she herself seems willing to sacrifice all the things in her life that really matter on the altar of her own ambition.

Bottom line, she was stuck in her own little narcissistic bubble, and really had no redemption or epiphany at the end. I might have liked the book better if the main character had been even a little likable to me, but she just wasn't.

I thought it was unfortunate to publish this particular book at a time when the media's approval ratings are at such a low in the country. People don't trust the media these days, and this character certainly didn't do anything to counter that trend.


I definitely cannot recommend this book, and I'll also be hesitant to pick up another book by Lis Wiehl after the unnecessary partisan spin this book presented. I was disappointed in it.

Note: I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher in exchange for a review. This is my honest opinion.

[Kelly Bridgewater · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoy a good suspense. Something that takes me away to another place. Something that captures my attention and puts me through a ride with plenty of dips and hang time. Unfortunately for me, Lis Wiehl latest series A Newsmakers Novel does not do that for me.

While the writing is top notch and the characters are relatable. I had a hard time swallowing the story as a suspense novel. When reading suspense novels, and I do read a lot of them, I like to be taken through the process as they stumble across dead bodies and see the interviews with the though process of the main characters. But in The Separatists or any of the previous two books, Wiehl does not really do this. Yes, there is some dead bodies. There is a kidnapping with some interviews. But as the title suggests, the plot focuses more on the political nature of the plot. This story actually bored me.

While Erica struggles with her new husband, daughter, and job, I understand and empathize with her. Wiehl did a fabulous job at giving Erica faults and dilemma to make her more realistic for the readers. I loved watching Erica try to deal with her ex-husband, new husband, and her daughter while wanting to push forward and succeed in her chosen field. To prove to herself and others that she isn't the trailer trash that she was while she was growing up. I enjoy a story where the characters have dug themselves out of the pit and made something of themselves. But Erica does not really change in the story, she just goes with the flow and reacts to her situations around her.

There really is no spiritual element. While the story is original and timely, it was predictable. I figured out who the person was behind the political side of the story.

A word of caution: For the third time, Wiehl has presented a homosexual character who acts on his emotions in the pages of the story. This lowers my rating on any book. This shouldn't be allowed by this publisher.

Overall, this story doesn't feel or read like a normal suspense novel even though I enjoyed the character of Erica, I had a hard time enjoying this novel.

I received a complimentary copy of The Separatists by Lis Wiehl from Thomas Nelson publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.

[Doreen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this book was fascinating. I grew up in North Dakota, where much of the story takes place, and I have heard people there jokingly speak of secession. It was interesting reading a book that makes it seem more plausible and it made me shudder to think of all the ramifications if it were to happen.
Erica Sparks once again finds herself with the inside scoop on a story of mind-blowing proportions. As the danger increases, so does her drive to find out and reveal the truth about the Bellamy’s and their “Take Back our Homeland” initiative. Erica is a classic workaholic who struggles to find time for her daughter and husband. I appreciate that this is shown realistically and isn’t glossed over as being okay. Erica feels the distance in her family and reaps the consequences. There is a glimmer of hope though for her in this regard. Still, Erica is not a particularly likeable character. She often thinks about how her success provides the money for this or that for her family. She just wasn’t very relatable.
While I thought the plot was interesting and had a good pace to it, there were a couple of writing style issues that I found peculiar. At times statements would be made that felt like an author’s side note. For example, “Erica only wears clip-ons—as a teenager there was enough pain at home, she wasn’t about to self-inflict more” (location 247). Also, the author likes to use uncommon words. It’s fine for someone who is reading on a kindle and can just click on the word to see the definition, but those reading a paperback may need to keep a dictionary handy for words like “insouciance,” “avuncular,” or “zeitgeist.”
Thank you to Thomas Nelson for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Jon Kidwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lis Wiehl has hit one over the fence with her latest book, "The Separatists".

Main character, Erica Sparks, is juggling a rocky marriage, a rebellious teen daughter, and a television career that are all making her life a non-stop drama. Wiehl does a fine job in taking this character to the place that readers can sympathize with her issues. Supporting characters include husband, Greg, as well as other characters who enter the story at the most opportune times.

A strange set of murders coincidentally match up to the rise of Mary Bellamy and her Homeland separatist group. Mary is a wolf in sheep's clothing, portraying a sublime southern "lady", but behind the scenes we see a cold, calculated, narcissistic psychopath.

The story is rich in character development and is one of those books where at 1:00 am, you easily talk yourself into "just one more chapter". Its difficult to put down, and in my opinion, thats the kind of book I want to read. For fans of mysteries and political genres, this is a book you definitely want to pick up. You will be glad that you did.

In light of my own enjoyment of this book, I give it 4 Stars, as its one of the best books I've read thus far in 2017. I highly recommend "The Separatists" by Lis Wiehl. (And on a side note, I intend to pick up other works by Lis Wiehl, as I thoroughly enjoy her story telling, and abilities to make the reader an eye-witness to the plot.)

I received and Advanced Readers Copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a timely and honest review. I have no other connections or interests with either the publisher or author.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Separatists is book 3 from the Newsmakers series by Lis Wiehl. Reporter Erica Sparks finds herself in Bismarck, North Dakota covering the recall of the state's governor. Erica meets Mary Bellamy, she is wanting the state to have more freedom and thinks the governor should be removed. Erica believes there is more to this woman's motive. Will the state succeed from the union and will there be many lives in danger to make it happen?

The Separatists is a fabulous thriller. I found the plot to be unique and it really made me think if the events could possibly really happen. The book is action-packed and fast-paced, making it hard for me to put it down. So many twists and turns, I never knew what would happen next. This is probably be the best book in the series. Lis Wiehl is truly an amazing author.

I would most definitely recommend this book!

Five stars

I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is my own honest opinion.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better and better. I love Erica Sparks and all the drama that seems to follow her around. Great read full of excitement. *I received an advanced copy of this book.*

[Jeanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ericka Sparks mission in life: to find the truth.

Ericka is rising up in the journalism world and her big break comes when she covers the political fight in North Dakota. The state that under the leadership of Mary Bellamy will separate from the union. Bellamy has to win her bid for governor before any separation can happen and she is hoping that Ericka will get her voice heard. Ericka is also dealing with personal separations at home. Not seeing her husband as much as she likes and the tension that it is causing and her daughter's rebellion that has been taken to higher level. Truth is calling Ericka as she lay aside her personal fears and she aims to find out Bellamy's agenda for the greater good.

When several people end up dead associated with Bellamy, the truth is the only thing that can save the country. Will Sparks find it in time.

Ok...a lot of tension, this woman is like super woman without the cape, fighting off snakes, going from place to place in record time, and just surviving one thing after another. Pure entertainment. However, North Dakota is not as bleak as it was made out to be. Growing up on a farm in Langdon, North Dakota, and having fond memories of that time, for entertainment's sake, it is just not true. North Dakota is a great place to raise a family and make a living. The people work hard for a good a living. Well I will get off my horse now and just say if you like a political thriller, you will be turning pages pretty quick with this one.

A Special Thank You to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

Up

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

GNN's top TV newscaster Erica Sparks launches a new investigative show called Spotlight. For her first show, she heads to Bismarck, North Dakota to interview Sturges and Mary Bellamy who are leading a movement of secession from the United States. A terrified woman calls Erica to meet in the hotel lobby but the woman's throat is cut before Erica can make it downstairs. Erica interviews the woman's daughter but then she is killed. Erica doesn't like the way people are dying who seem to be in the way of this secession movement and she intends to be on the front line in coverage as the action ramps up. And the movement goes much further than anyone could have predicted.

Reading this story on the heels of the Charlottesville protests gave the book a frightening edge. Given today's political climate, maybe the premise of the book is not so farfetched. I thought this one was the best of the series so far.

[Cheryl · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am very sadden to have to rate this book so low. I have enjoyed these books a lot. Yet, this time I struggled a lot with this book. Although, I like that it seemed to tackle current events. For example, the story seemed to be inspired some from the Bundy standoff with the FBI in Oregon as well as the Dakota Access Pipeline project. So, I like the modern feel that this book had with current events.

Yet, none of the characters were interesting or had a strong, loud voice in the story. Even Erica was muted and not herself this time. It felt like forever for me to get to the half way mark. After that, I had no desire to continue on with this book. In fact, I can't even remember most of what I read. Not a best showing in my opinion of this author's talent. I hope that the next book is better.

[Martha Wilkerson · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Separatists by Lis Wiehl is a fast-moving and relevant novel, especially in light of what is happening in the U.S. currently with the autonomous gfroup out in Seattle. I enjoyed the book as far as that part of the story. But I am disappointed in the interpersonal and family dynamics of the main character, Erica. The last thing we need to espouse and accept is that career trumps family and every other semblance of having a life. Even though, Erica had a "light bulb moment" towards the end of the book, it was really just more of the same. I'm tired of super-women story lines.

[Diane Saul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Erica Sparks is a successful national news reporter who is starting a new investigative news program. Her first story is about a secessionist group headed by charismatic Mary Bellamy. The group wants to secede from the US and form their own independent nation. They are very well organized and have obviously been working quietly behind the scenes toward their agenda for quite some time. The group is not what they seem.

This is part of a series but I feel it could stand on its own if a reader hadn't read the previous books. The book is fast paced and full of suspense. This is a political thriller with a plot that is scarily possible in real life. For a successful person the character Mary seems to be lacking in self confidence and sometimes trusts the wrong people. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next book in the series. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The latest thriller is just that and offers a view into what America can become if the American people follow a group of extremist views. Erica Sparks is a journalist following her dream job and the story wherever it leads her. She is also leaving behind her husband who is rather morosely losing sight of his career and her daughter who is bitter about the time her mom devotes to her career. Erica faces danger to herself and her family in order to follow the story and try to save the nation as we know it. The book is a good and believable read, and fans of Ms. Wiehl will not be disappointed with her latest offering.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once more Lis Wiehl has written a page-turner about events that one would not be surprised to find in their current newspapers or broadcasts. When star TV newscaster Erica Sparks is given the go-ahead to start a new program, she decides to begin the series with a feature on a secessionist movement growing in North Dakota. It doesn't take long before the situation becomes a powder keg that gains the attention of the entire country and Erica finds herself right in the center of things.

I enjoyed reading "The Separatists" which not only featured plenty of suspense but also personal issues in Erica's own life, especially developing problems with her new husband and her teen daughter. Having read the previous two books from the series, I am beginning to wonder why such a savvy newscaster like Erica is so naive when it comes to trusting the wrong people. I suppose it adds to the story but you'd think she would realize by now that she trusts others just a bit too easily and usually gets burned because of it. Nevertheless, "The Separatists" as well as the rest of the Newsmakers series are excellent reads and I recommend them to anyone who enjoys contemporary suspense.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by Amazon Vine. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

[Debi Stout · Rating 4 out of 5]

I first read Lis Wiehl's book, The Newsmakers, back in 2016.  Next, in 2017, I read her second book in the series, The Candidates. The third book in the series had already come out by that time so I was running behind.  Now, I'm going to share with you about the third and final book in this series - The Separatists by Lis Wiehl. 

Erica Sparks is the protagonist of this series.  She's a successful national news reporter starting a new investigative news program. Erica's first story is about a secessionist group headed by charismatic Mary Bellamy called Take Back Our Homeland.   The group wants the state of North Dakota to secede from the United States and form their own independent nation. It's very clear that the group is very well organized and they've obviously been working quietly behind the scenes toward their agenda for quite some time - this group is not what they seem to be.  It doesn't take long before the whole situation with the succession becomes explosive and gains the attention of the entire country.  Of no surprise is the fact that Erica finds herself right in the center of things.

The Separatists was a great read full of suspense. I loved the personal issues in Erica's own personal life, including the problems developing with Erica's new husband, Greg Underwood, and her teen daughter, Jenny.  Because I've read the previous two books from this series, I look back and have to wonder why a savvy news reporter like Erica could come off so clueless when she keeps trusting the wrong people.  You'd think she would have figured out her own tendency to trust folks too easily since she keeps getting hurt because of it!

Regardless, I will say that all of the books in the Newsmakers series are great reads and I would definitely recommend the series to folks looking for contemporary suspense stories.  While this book is part of a series, I really feel it could stand on its own if a reader hadn't read the previous books. The story is fast paced and the characters are well written. I found the plot in this political thriller to be unique and full of suspense.  It really made me think if the events could possibly really happen in real life.

I received a copy of this book without cost from the publisher through The Fiction Guild, a Thomas Nelson/Zondervan Elite Reader book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Sara Wise · Rating 4 out of 5]

** “Democracy is messy and hard, just look around the world, but somehow we’ve made it work. Because men and women of goodwill, no matter what their differences, came together, compromised, and took actions that kept us united and moved us forward, kept the arc of history bending toward justice.” **

Erica Sparks, GNN anchor, is at the top of her game — with even bigger professional dreams. She wants to create a new “Spotlight” program, where she’ll be at the forefront of a new form of American journalism, one that’s fearless and follows the story wherever it leads, highlighting one topic at a time.

In Lis Wiehl’s “The Separatists,” Erica follows that new fearless form of journalism to cover the story of secessionism within the United States — particularly in North Dakota, where Sturges and Mary Bellamy are set to challenge the governor in a recall election and “take back the Homeland.”

What follows is an intense, high-energy story filled with twists and turns — and bombings, kidnapping and murders. The action never stops in “The Separatists” as Erica tries to determine the meaning and purpose behind the Bellamys’ attempt to take over North Dakota and leave the union.

Wiehl’s novel is an extremely timely novel, reflecting the dissension and feelings of hopelessness and anger that exists at the moment in the U.S. Secessionist movements are a very real thing right now, and her plot definitely seems in the realm of possibility. It’s an eye-opening reminder to be ever vigilant to protect our rights and freedoms.

Besides being a political thriller, “The Separatists” does delve into some other issues — overcoming one’s past, no matter how toxic it was; family dynamics and determining the value and importance of family versus one’s career; learning who one can trust; and finding worth in one’s self.

Some negatives: at times Wiehl’s writing can get a little intellectual, with odd verb tenses at times and sprinkled with vocabulary like “meritocracy” and “insouciance.” And it does feature alcohol and drug use, as well as several references to sexual situations — but never in a gratuitous manner.

But overall, “The Separatists” is a great political thriller, ripped right from today’s potential headlines.

Four and a half stars out of five.

Thomas Nelson provided this complimentary copy for my honest, unbiased review.

[Denise · Rating 3 out of 5]

I couldn't wait to read the third and final novel in Lis Wiehl's The Newsmakers Trilogy. I loved the first and second books (The Newsmakers and The Candidate) and was eagerly looking forward to the conclusion, The Separatists. The plot sounded intriguing and like it was ripped straight from the headlines. The back cover says:

"From New York Times bestselling author Lis Wiehl comes the final book in her Newsmakers series. Journalist and newscaster Erica Sparks is only planning to report on an explosive story—until she gets caught in the middle of it.

After getting the green light from her network to launch an investigative news show, Erica flies to Bismarck, North Dakota, to investigate Take Back Our Homeland, the largest secessionist group. What she finds is profoundly disturbing – a growing threat to the future of our union.

Back home, her husband Greg is drinking more and talking less—and taking an unusual interest in the glamorous author Leslie Burke Wilson. Erica’s teenage daughter has also begun acting out in troubling ways.

Then she discovers a potential informant murdered in her Bismarck hotel. Take Back Our Homeland might be even more dangerous than she had thought—and she’s unwittingly become one of the key players in the story. Her fear and anxiety escalate – for her marriage, her daughter, and her own life.

Bestselling novelist and former legal analyst for Fox News Lis Wiehl takes us behind the anchor’s desk in this gripping look at high-stakes reporting in a country torn apart.

“BREAKING NEWS! Lis Wiehl has written another blockbuster—using her insider’s eye to nail the dangerous mix of media and politics. The Separatists is bold, timely, thrilling and a simply stunning read.” --Linda Fairstein, New York Times bestselling author

“Political high jinks and unusual escapades always mark a Lis Wiehl novel. Eric Sparks is a highly trained, top-notched, alpha-female —totally reminiscent of her creator. This one is a smart, sexy, reflective read and I highly recommend it."

--Steve Berry, New York Times bestselling author"

I'll admit, I was a little bit underwhelmed by The Separatists. After being obsessed with The Newsmakers and loving The Candidate, my expectations were sky high for The Separatists, especially because of the exciting description. However, the character I loved in Erica Sparks in the first two books started to grate in the third. Her character took a bit of a self obsessed and workaholic turn in this book. She was way too self-absorbed and not concerned enough with her husband and daughter. The plot was a bit thin and not as well done or well fleshed out as it could have been. The first two books were incredible, but the third wasn't quite up to par. I do recommend this trilogy in its entirety. Definitely read the books in order, because they follow a story arc throughout the entire trilogy. If you enjoy political thrillers, you will like The Newsmakers trilogy.

I received a copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers in order to provide an open and honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 2 out of 5]

Even though Lis Wiehl’s first person present tense writing style is a little awkward and takes some getting used to (mostly because most fiction is not written this way), and I’m not a huge fan of discussing politics, I keep coming back to these books. They are interesting, engaging, and fast-paced. An intriguing look at what could become very real scenarios and situations in today’s disillusions and discontent within our federal government.

In The Separatists, the third book of the Newsmakers series featuring journalist Erica Sparks, North Dakota is on the brink of secession. As Erica scoops the rest of the news industry on this breaking story, she discovers there’s much more hiding under the surface.

While Wiehl’s story gives an excellent case of how this state can separate itself from the rest of the United States, the heart of this story for me was about the masks people wear for their public. Whether it’s someone trying to present a spotless image for their potential constituents while hiding a heart of darkness or a successful news anchor doubting herself in other areas of life, many of the characters in this book are hiding secrets.

As the body count climbs and Erica Sparks races to find the truth behind the secessionist movement, readers are taken along the journey fraught with danger and suspense.

I had to backtrack a bit at the beginning in order to keep track of all the players but had them straight about a quarter of the way through. The ending seemed a bit abrupt to me. I would have liked a little more details about the wrap up other than the short epilogue. It drove me absolutely crazy that Erica would not talk to her husband about her doubts. I understand that not communicating is a common issue in romances but this was not a romance and that communication issue is usually taken care of during the dating/courtship stage. Erica and Greg have been together long enough that they should not be faced with this issue.

Overall, it was an okay read for me. If you’re a fan of political suspense with lots of intrigue, backstabbing, and subterfuge, this is a keeper. As the body count climbs and Erica Sparks races to find the truth behind the secessionist movement, readers are taken along the journey fraught with danger and suspense.

Warning: There are several references to sexual situations (allusions to the act, mentions of words associated with it, and a few homosexual relation mentions).

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The following review was originally posted at ReadLove : https://dawnreadlove.wordpress.com/

The United States is a nice place to visit, but I wouldn’t want to live there. After reading The Separatists, Lis Wiehl’s latest heart-stopper, that would not be a surprising sentiment in a foreign reader. The book is described as a ‘thriller’, and it most certainly is one, but it also ventures into the horror genre. Not the guts-splattering, monster-filled type of terror, but the psychological frightener kind, with a murdering, megalomaniacal, psychopathic terrorist at its helm. One who was duly elected into office through the process of American democracy.

Our heroine, Erica Sparks, news journalist supreme, struggles to get to the bottom of a heinous plot to tear apart America piece by piece, while distracted by a wayward daughter and an estranged husband. Whether she saves the day yet again, I will not say. I will note, however, that this is the last novel in the series, so hold your breath and cross your fingers in those final few chapters!

If you have not read the first two books in the terrific Newsmakers series, please do so before cracking open this one. Many old friends return here, and to fully understand Erica’s relationship problems the reader needs to know the histories of certain characters (including that of Ms. Sparks herself).

If you’ve already read and enjoyed The Newsmakers and The Candidate, then you know you’re in for a treat with Wiehl’s new offering, a fast-paced, scary commentary on the current state of the nation.

Verdict: 4 of 5 Hearts. Another Gripping, Furious-Paced Thrill Ride with Erica Sparks!

The Separatists, the third novel in Lis Wiehl’s latest series, has all the suspense and excitement of the previous two, with another disturbing cast of villains, and with even higher stakes. And, as in the previous books, it’s flawed Erica Sparks, always dedicated to uncovering the truth, whom we love to watch pit her intellect and courage against those who would unleash a terrible evil upon the country.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I would like to thank BookLook Bloggers and Thomas Nelson for providing me with a copy of The Separatists in exchange for an honest review. 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.”

[Meagan Myhren-Bennett · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Separatists
A Newsmakers Novel #3
By Lis Wiehl

Journalist Erica Sparks is ready to embark on a new chapter in her life. The Erica Sparks Show is still a network darling with GNN and she wants more journalistic endeavors at the network. And she has the perfect idea - a once a month in-depth topic driven show.

First up for Erica - the growing secessionist movements throughout the nation and specifically Take Back Our Homeland out of North Dakota. Erica is driven to succeed and unfortunately, her personal life is taking a hit. Her marriage with Greg is shaky and each added success delivers a hit. And then there is Jenny who seems to be caught in the middle of Erica's success - she uses it to her advantage while disdaining its intrusion into her life while dealing with typical tween issues.

But when Erica gets a phone call that someone needs to talk to her about something very important - something that may have to do with the Take Back Our Homeland movement - things start to go wrong. And by wrong, I'm talking deadly and all too soon the body count starts going up. (As a side note you may not want to eat while reading some of the murders are a tad nauseating with post death descriptions.)

The closer Erica gets to finding answers or the illusion of answers the more dangerous her investigation becomes. And anyone as who's read the previous Newsmakers books knows Erica doesn't back down when it gets dangerous.

First off I have mixed feelings about this book - the story overall is good and it fits in well with current news stories. The violence is a little graphic for my personal tastes but I know it is nothing compared to some popular thrillers. Erica is a character with whom one can empathize with while at the same time shake your head at her career focused drive. The shift in voice can, at times, interrupt the flow of the story but once the reader gets used to it the flow evens out. This book doesn't lack for suspense or excitement so it most likely isn't a great just before bed choice if sleep can be elusive but if you don't mind skipping a little shut-eye time get ready for some news-worthy reading.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher through BookLook Bloggers with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Sherri · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the third book in a series about Erica Sparks, an investigative reporter who seems to find herself in the midst of trouble as she uncovers disturbing facts.

Erica is covering a story in North Dakota where Mary Belamy is running a campaign to break North Dakota from the United States. She is getting the required votes and now she just needs to see it happen. People, Pioneers, are moving into the state willing to cast their vote to this new republic. In the meantime, people are dying and they seem to be linked to Mary and her crew. 

The first book I read of Lis Wiehl was The Candidate and was thoroughly impressed with her writing. I thought the storyline was strong and well thought out. It read well and while I missed the second book about Erica Sparks (The Newsmakers), I was able to catch up with Erica in this book.

For me, this book just didn't connect with me as well as the first book I read. The things I didn't like, was the blatant descriptions of someone "put the gun in the mouth, and blows the brains out". Blech. Didn't really need to be THAT descriptive.

Since when is a "corporal" in the military rise so high in the ranks to be second in command. From my understanding, the corporal is a bit further down the chain.

Plus, I didn't like the end relationship between Erica and her daughter, Jenny. It seems like Erica cares only for her career and making the pieces and people of her life fit into her formula of success.

Lastly, for Thomas Nelson to be a supposed "Christian publisher" I didn't find very much within this book that would really classify it as a Christian book. There were bits here an then about God, just enough to perhaps classify it as Christian. But honestly, not really. This is more or less a mainstream book attempting to crossover into Christian publishing.

All in all, I really didn't like this book. While I was able to read it and enjoy the drama within, I truly doubt that this would be a book that I would keep on my bookshelf to read again in the future. Would I recommend for others to go out and buy it? Probably not. I'd suggest going to the library and checking it out first and formulate your own opinion before shelling out the money.

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

July 17, 2017
THRILLING! "THE SEPARATISTS" BY LIS WIEHL
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Celebrity newsmaker Erica Sparks continues to have a rising star working for GNN, including having been given the go-ahead to launch a brand new investigative news show. But her first story on the largest secessionist group in the United States soon finds Erica at the epicenter of a movement that quickly becomes dangerous. As the very fabric of the country threatens to tear apart, Erica finds herself fighting for the truth - and to stay alive.

The final novel in the "Newsmakers" series offers up a fascinating and rather frighteningly possible plot that held me in its grip from beginning to end. As with all of her books, the writing is fast-paced and it was simply impossible to put down! I found myself wondering, do people actually believe the things this secessionist group does in this novel? Because if so, I pray that this novel never becomes even close to reality! Erica continues to be an intriguing character, one that I do like for her grit and determination, and yet one where I also struggle with the choices she makes, as sometimes they seem selfish. And yet in the end I realize that she is a character who is true to life, possessing all the characteristics that all of us humans do - some good, some not so good, and I think of the phrase "there but for the grace of God go I". We all have something to learn from Erica, in that we can emulate her courage and her drive for justice, while perhaps making some different choices along the way. By the end, I was again cheering her on, and feeling like my time reading "The Separatists" was time well spent, as not only was I completely entertained, but I was left with much food for thought at the same time.

This series has honestly gotten better with each book. I enjoyed every moment of The Separatists and award it a very solid rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of the Booklook Bloggers review program. Available from your favorite book retailer from Thomas Nelson, a division of HarperCollins.

[Naomi · Rating 3 out of 5]

While Lis Wiehl is one of my favorite authors, and this book will not deter me from reading any of her other books, I have to say this one just let me down in several ways.

First of all, I get that she likes the whole one-dimensional, psychotic villain thing, and that's fine. But intermixed with the comic book conflict is a protagonist whose life we can relate to as she juggles - not always successfully - motherhood, wifehood, and career. In this particular book, two things happened to Erica that should have sobered up her husband/their marital issues at least temporarily, but there was never even a discussion about them. I've been married and divorced; I know what it's like to have a marriage on the rocks, and I promise you, if my (now-ex) husband found out I had been kidnapped and stuffed in a trunk or that somebody had put a dozen rattlesnakes in my car, he would have been addressing these incidents with the proper amount of concern, despite our marital problems. But in The Separatists, once these incidents pass, there is no traumatic aftermath for Erica at all, and her husband never even finds out these things have happened. At least, that's how it appeared. You don't discover your wife has been kidnapped and continue whining about how busy she always is shortly after she returns.

I did appreciate the progress Erica's mother made, confirming she is at least a dynamic character. But I believe the author needs to decide what exactly her genre is going to be. I have a lot more respect for her Mia Quinn and Triple Threat series.

One more thing that bothered me was the animal cruelty. Wiehl manages to slip it in to her novels more often than I am comfortable with, and I don't see that it is necessary to be so graphic just to get the point across that someone is a "bad guy."

This book was also very partisan. It doesn't matter that the beloved president was a republican, there was an obvious bias against conservatives.

[Yvie · Rating 3 out of 5]

After getting the green light from her network to launch an investigative news show, Erica flies to Bismarck, North Dakota, to investigate Take Back Our Homeland, the largest secessionist group. What she finds is profoundly disturbing – a growing threat to the future of our union. Back home, her husband Greg is drinking more and talking less—and taking an unusual interest in the glamorous author Leslie Burke Wilson. Erica’s teenage daughter has also begun acting out in troubling ways. Then she discovers a potential informant murdered in her Bismarck hotel. Take Back Our Homelandmight be even more dangerous than she had thought—and she’s unwittingly become one of the key players in the story. Her fear and anxiety escalate – for her marriage, her daughter, and her own life. Bestselling novelist and former legal analyst for Fox News Lis Wiehl takes us behind the anchor’s desk in this gripping look at high-stakes reporting in a country torn apart.

This is the third and final book in the Newsmakers series, and I thought it was the best one of the three. The main character is really deep into the political spotlight, to the detriment of her family, and this sets her up for all sorts of struggles. Admittedly, it's a bit over the top at times, and yet slow at other times, but it's in the same vein as both of the other Newsmakers books; so if you liked the others, then you'll like this one. It's fast-paced and you could really see the events playing out today, given the current political climate; however, I didn't like that the author felt the need to insert her own political opinions into the book. As in, she takes jabs at real people, but only on one side of the fence, rather than just leaving it as a purely fiction book.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Erica Sparks Uncovers a Secessionist Plot

Erica Sparks’ program, The Erica Sparks Effect, is still highly rated, but Erica needs more challenge. She convinces her network, GNN, to give her a new show, Spotlight. The show promises to be a success, but will her marriage to Greg survive? He no longer works for GNN. He’s doing work as a consultant, but is he happy? Erica could hire him as her producer, but could she work with him?

Leslie Burke White, an author specializing in political commentary, is tapped by Erica for a special on her program. Leslie is brilliant, beautiful, and well connected. Erica can’t help but be awed by her and desirous of joining her famous circle of friends.

Jenny, Erica’s, daughter, is growing up and still having trouble balancing her love for her mother and her mother’s fame.

The novel starts with a group of secessionists in West Texas in a shootout with local law enforcement. Erica realizes what a draw the secessionist movement would be for her new show. She determines to meet some of the groups and highlight what’s happening. These are very dangerous people and the action is non-stop.

If you like a fast paced plot with echos of the evening news, you’ll enjoy this book. Personally, I found the action, particularly Erica’s involvement in stopping the secessionists’ plot, a bit over the top. She is after all a news reporter, not special forces.

I was turned off by Erica’s treatment of Greg. She knows he’s not happy with his consulting role, but she’s determined to keep him outside her new show although she could use the help. I found that very selfish, self-centered, and shortsighted.

The book is well written and moves smoothly. As an adventure story it’s good. However, I found the actions of the characters, particularly Erica, not quite believable.

I received this book from BookLook Bloggers for this review.