DEADLY NEWS
A Britton Bay Mystery # 1
Jody Holford
Lyrical Underground
October 30, 2018
When big-city newspaper editor Molly Owens walks into her apartment and finds her boyfriend in a compromising position with his ex, she decides it's time for a change. Molly is an army brat who has never put down roots anywhere. Britton Bay, a seaside town in Oregon is looking for a new editor for its local paper. Molly thinks this will be just the challenge and change she needs. The paper, though of long standing in the community, has been neglected by its owner and needs to be dragged into the 21st century. All of the small staff is welcoming, with the glaring exception of Vernon Wise, who makes it clear immediately that he is not interested in any of Molly's ideas or direction. The staff photographer, Clay, who turns out to be Vernon's son, is welcoming, but creepy. There are all sorts of undercurrents in the newsroom, especially between Alan Benedict, the owner, and his assistant, Elizabeth Grover.
Molly jumps right in with suggestions, backed fully by Alan, for a new direction for the paper. Her first order is to Vernon for an interview with the matriarch of Britton Bays' founding family, the Phillips. Vernon agrees, under protest and with ill grace. Molly thinks that Britton Bay is an excellent choice and quickly rents a charming carriage house, finds new friends, takes in an adorable stray puppy, and meets Sam Alderich, a dishy auto mechanic. The day after the interview with the Phillips matriarch, Vernon calls in sick and on the next day is a no-show. Molly finds him bludgeoned to death in his home, and in her mind, the interview and murder must be connected. She feels somewhat responsible, even as she uncovers blackmail and possible extramarital affairs in the mix at the newspaper.
I enjoyed the setting and found the mystery to be challenging. Molly herself is likable, even if overly responsible for events beyond her control and unmindful of her own safety. The instant romance with Sam was a little too easy, considering her previous experience with men. Deadly News is a fun, complete escape read and I look forward to another visit to Britton Bay.
Thanks to NetGalley and Lyrical Underground Books for an advance digital copy. The opinions are my own.
RATING- 3 Stars
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