The Candidate (A Newsmakers Novel)

News anchorwoman Erica Sparks is at the top of her game with her snappy reporting that engages the public. That is, she thought she was at the top but her boss calls her in to tell her that ratings for her show on GNN are slipping, a fact that restores her fears from the past and a life she wishes would never appear in memory. Add to that she knows she’s neglecting her daughter Jennie for the job and they are beginning to drift apart. The first problem will change and the second demands some immediate action but certainly not what Erica envisioned for their family.
Erica is covering the appearance of the candidates, Senator Mike Ortiz and Fred Buchanan, when a bomb rips through the crowd outside the venue for the appearance. Fred and Judy Buchanan, among numerous others, are instantly killed. But Erica is not only struck by the horrendous tragedy. She notices that before Senator Mike Ortiz makes any comment, he seems to look at his wife, Celeste Pierce Ortiz, for approval before continuing. Worse yet, he seems to smile at inappropriate times and otherwise has no affect regarding the circumstance that is tragic to say the least. As times goes by, including a personal interview with Ortiz, Erica begins to delve further into his background, believing something is very wrong with this man.
This then is the story of Erica’s tendency to be in the right place at the right (or wrong depending on one’s point of view) time and a powerful intuitive skill in being able to sniff out a potentially explosive story.
Add to that the too perfect image of Celeste Pierce Ortiz and her association with Lily Lau. But readers will never be able to figure out what’s going on behind the scenes that has pathologically dangerous elements that Erica is investigating, actions that will put her own life at risk.
Add to that a choice Erika makes for her daughter will turn out to be very dangerous for Erika and Jenny. Even the savviest of journalists can’t always be sharp about all looming dangers.
The Candidate: A Newsmakers Novel is a sharp novel about outside efforts to control the democratic process of elections in America. Those plans are designed to change the American government and are all more frightening for the viable possibility that comes too close for comfort! Fast, exciting, nerve wracking plot that provides a great read! Superbly done, Lisa Wiehl and Sebastian Stuart!

Erica Sparks is still working for GNN. Her ratings are doing well and now she is set to cover the next presidential election. Mike Ortiz was a former prisoner of war in Iraq who miraculously escaped his captors. Now Mike is one of the presidential hopefuls. Erica always seems to be in the perfect spot to catch the latest headlines. When one of the other candidates and his wife are killed in a bombing, Erica witnesses it firsthand. In the midst of her investigation Erica gets an inkling that there is something mechanical and fake about Mike and his wife Celeste. Once more Erica's life is put on the line for her job, will she be able to prove her fears or, die trying?

The Candidate is the second book in the Newsmakers series. For the most part I enjoyed this book. The plot kept me turning the pages. I did get frustrated with some of the characters. Erica and her daughter Jenny's relationship is pretty dysfunctional and Erica and her fiance' Greg are currently in a long-distance relationship that is testing their commitment to each other. I had to laugh at some of the cliche's such as, "Erica half wishes she could blow off this popsicle stand..." that were sprinkled throughout the book. Like I said, the plot kept me turning the pages to see how everything would turn out. I'll be looking forward to seeing what trouble Erica lands herself in next.

POTENTIAL TRIGGER WARNING: This novel incorporates some pretty gruesome themes: Cutting, suicide, murder, torture, terrorism. Additionally, there are emotionally painful topics addressed such as infidelity, alcoholism, emotional manipulation and blackmail. Sensitive readers beware.

Senator Mike Ortiz is a POW / war hero and presidential candidate. He and wife Celeste seem like the perfect couple -- loving, glamorous, the ultimate power couple. At least on the surface. But just under the surface, the truth is bubbling up. Something seems off. Television journalist Erica Sparks is back on the scene to investigate, determined to bring the truth to light.

When we met Erica in the first book of this series, she had recently been given her own news talk show, The Erica Sparks Effect. Wealth and stardom came swift, but now, some time has passed and her boss is pressuring her to keep the ratings up. There are fresh-faced competitors coming onto the scene, but Erica stays strong and mentally regroups. She has a lot riding on this job remaining successful -- her luxury apartment, her daughter's expensive schooling... not to mention just a new found appreciation for the finer, more expensive things Erica's come to develop a taste for. So our girl gets steely-eyed and thinks herself up a winning game plan.

Erica nabs the position of moderator on the all important presidential debate between Senator Ortiz and his opponent, Senator Lucy Winters. Set on filming an exclusive mini-interview with Ortiz prior to the debate, but someone else made other plans that day. The crowds at the debate venue are rocked by a bombing, even leaving a few fatalities in the aftermath. Having witnessed the horror firsthand, Erica becomes even more set on uncovering just what is going on. Who was the bomb really meant for? Are Ortiz and his wife behind the attack?

As Erica begins to dig further, the story she uncovers begins to grow darker than she ever imagined. Suspecting that some serious damage might have been done to Ortiz's mind during his POW days, she meets with various specialists... who one by one end up either dead or seriously injured. Then come the threats to her family's safety. Now it's not just about the job, but Erica's very survival. It becomes increasingly difficult for her to know who to trust or go to for help.

It doesn't always happen this way for me when I'm reading a book, but this one had a very clear breakdown in ratings in my mind:

* The character of Erica, I give her a 3. I think I liked her a bit better in the first book. Here, there was just something about her that grated on me. One thing being her frequent phrase of "say more". Something about that just bugged me. I prefer "Do tell" or "Go on". Something about "say more" didn't flow as well and just sounded stupid. And then she had other characters doing it! Dialogue once again was an issue for me. I remember in the first book I found it pretty awkward. It's gotten better in this second book but it's still a little off for me. The dialogue often has too much of a scripted sound, the characters sometimes speaking as if they are dictating a letter rather than having a conversation.

There's a small portion of the story where actor Robert DeNiro is written in as a character. Even there, I tried reading his lines in his voice and it still didn't seem to ring entirely true (believable) to how you'd expect him to speak.

* The plot I give a 4. Solidly good story arc with lots of intrigue and layers. The chapters are also generally pretty short, typically running only 3-4 pages a chapter, which helped keep the pace moving at a nice clip. Overall, good fun!

Soooo... I guess this makes this about a 3.5 overall for me!

FTC Disclaimer: TNZ Fiction Guild kindly provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions above are entirely my own.

Thomas Nelson and NetGalley provided me with an electronic copy of The Candidate. I was under no obligation to review this book and my opinion is freely given.

A successful candidate for President requires a great staff and a supportive family. What happens when the power in the relationship shifts and the one holding all of the cards is the one you least expect?

Celeste Pierce Ortiz will do whatever it takes to secure her husband the top political spot in the country. Along with her friend and confidant Lily Lau, will the pair succeed? When journalist Erica Sparks starts to become suspicious, will her investigative skills put her in danger?

The Candidate was too far-fetched and unbelievable to be a good story. Between the secretive manipulations, perpetrated by Celeste and Lily, and Erica's personal drama, the central story never gains a foothold. Near the ending, Erica's situation and her solution just did not ring true. The events that transpire never could have happened in the way that they did. With dialogue and circumstances that seemed forced, The Candidate is not a book that I would recommend to other readers.

Lis Wiehl returns following The Newsmakers, (2014) with THE CANDIDATE, a continuation of her riveting series featuring an unstoppable heroine, Newscaster Erica Sparks, we met in The Newsmakers #1; Blonde, beautiful, driven and sharp. A mother. A haunted past. A daughter. A second chance.

A journalist who wants to be her best. Uncovering the truth, no matter where it leads. To shine the light of fairness on injustice and inequality. At the same time stand up to the high and mighty. This time, around, Erica is powerful and respected- she’s the host of the highest rated news show in the country. Someone is watching her. Where things are not as they seem. The Presidential campaign. How far will a candidate go to become president?

Erica has a nightly news show, The Erica Sparks Effect, with a superior reputation. From book one we catch up with Greg, the man she loves, currently in Australia, working crazy hours to help launch a cable news network. She misses him – they have been apart for three months. There is also her best friend, Moira Connelly, a fellow reporter – now an evening co- anchor on a local LA station.

Previously, Erica exposed Nylan Hastings, the psychopath in The Newsmakers and now her new boss, Mort Silver wants to see her show on top. He is not pleased with the numbers. The presidential campaign is heating up and Erica wants to be a part of it. She needs to keep her career certain at GNN. She needs a big story.

We also catch up with Jenny, Erica’s daughter, now a pre-teen. Jenny feels neglected and sometimes can be resentful, but Erica has to work hard in order to pay for her school and their apartment. She recently transitioned from her father and friends in Massachusetts to New York. The demands of her job are staggering, a pressure cooker. She has to find more time for Jenny. She has an excellent staff but needs a personal assistant.

There are also the dark things. When introduced to Erica in the first book, she continues to hear haunting mocking voices from her mother. It spreads like a toxic spill deep into her psyche. She always feels like something terrible is going to happen. The slip in her ratings and the driving pressure she feels to deliver a big story has only exacerbated her night terrors.

Celeste went to Stanford and then Stanford law, and then the Harvard B-school, and then into international banking where she became Wall Street’s go-to person (with friend Lily Lau) making her own vast fortune. And now she is married to California Senator Mike Oritz, who stands a very good chance of becoming the next president of the United States. Which of course, will make Celeste the most powerful person in the world. With Lily Lau—who will be named President Oritz’s chief of staff by her side.

Celeste is a powerful an intriguing woman in her own right—heiress to a car dealership, and international banker specializing in China markets. She has put her own career on hold to work for her husband’s campaign to which she has donated twenty million dollars. The couple is glamorous and powerful.

Mike is a war hero, a marine in Iraq and was elected to Congress. Determined to return to Iraq and was kidnapped. He escaped. He has enormous political talent. A bomb. Erica was there. Dead and injured. Evil in the world. Fifteen people died in the Buchanan bomber attack, forty-two injured, eight in critical condition. The country is reeling. She flashes back to the Staten Island ferry crashed that launched her career. Is it possible this horrific act was also orchestrated by unseen forces who want Erica to be on the scene? Can she trust the people at GNN?

Something happened before the bomb blast, she cannot put her finger on it. She can’t remember. Something is not right. She tries to recall what stuck in her mind. Something to do with Mike Ortiz. But, what? It was also like the possible next President of the US needed his wife’s permission to speak.

She hates the network’s obsession with ratings at a time like this. She is ambitious but she never wants it to cross the line into ruthless. The Erica Sparks Effect is treated with respect and integrity. No games. The bombing upended the presidential campaign and needs to be ready to hop on a plane at a moment’s notice. The FBI, CIA, and Department of Justice are trying to identify the bomber. Who stands to gain the most from the Buchanan’s death?

What is with Celeste and Lau's relationship? Power? Erica knows evil and power from nailing Nylan Hastings. She is having trouble sleeping and jumps at every noise, worried about Jenny’s safety on the streets of New York. Erica begins studying her file on Mike Ortiz. His working class upbringing, an activist, community organizer, his tour duty in the second Iraq War, his subsequent election to Congress and marriage to heiress and banker Celeste Pierce.

Also his capture and incarceration by Al-Qaeda while on a humanitarian mission to Iraq. His subsequent escape made him a national hero and propelled him into the Senate. A compelling story – one which may carry him to the White House. She still is fascinated with the power dynamics with his wife. His wife seems to have a great deal of control over him. She seems strange. Brilliant and driven but Erica senses rage lurking behind the polished surface.

Mike says he was tortured and threatened and once he escaped made the decision to fight. A purpose, a mission. To inspire every American to join him in the fight to make their country a more, perfect union. What really happened when he was held, prisoner? Who is in control? Why? Erica is determined to find answers. Someone is threatened by her investigation, as Erica closes in. The debate. The moderator. A race against the clock.

With the nation’s future at stake, Erica is determined to bring down the conspiracy, and psychopath attempting to take over the presidency, and at the same time puts herself and her daughter in danger, while her own past threatens her. Will she be able to outsmart them before it is too late, and bring the truth to light?

An action-packed political suspense thriller of power, and intrigue! A nice balance of personal/professional with Greg and Erica’s relationship. (a happy ending). She has grown tremendously since the last book with her demons and enjoyed the mother/daughter dynamics with Jenny. Also, fun catching up with BFF, Moira. A smart chilling suspense series with a dynamic protagonist!

An avid 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. 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 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.

A special thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. JDCMustReadBooks

     Lis Wiehl has authored a Good Political Investigative Thriller in her book:  "The Candidate". It was published by Thomas Nelson, on 10/01/2016. It's the 2nd story in the Newsmakers thriller series; but this was my 1st Wiehl story.
     Dynamic War hero, Senator Mike Ortiz, is favored to win the White House. But something about Ortiz's lack of emotional response to a family tragedy, & his strong dependence on his wife Celeste's approval, disturbs Erica Sparks. So, America's top-rated cable-news host investigates. How far will someone go to gain the US Presidency?
     This book is timely, because it parallels & contrasts several things from the US's 2016 Presidential Campaign. One of those things I liked is Erica's integrity. She's a Journalist 1st, seeking out the truth; she doesn't compromise that to keep her show's ratings high. That's a nice contrast to the biased one-sided Broadcasting that dominates today's US Media.
     I recommend this good story, & will be checking out Ms. Wiehl's other books. I received a copy of this book through NetGalley, & voluntarily chose to review.

"There are five core steps to gaining control of someone's mind: isolation, sensory deprivation, fear, indoctrination, love."

In this political thriller, news anchor Erica Sparks finds herself fighting ratings, experiencing tragedy, and suspecting foul play at the highest level; all in a matter of hours.

Her producer sends Erica to the front row of the upcoming presidential elections by allowing her to interview opposing candidates in their home environment, thus niggling a suspicion that something about the seemingly perfect candidate Mike Ortiz and his glamorous wife Celeste, begs a deeper view. Deeper in this case means sinister, and Erica is about to find out first hand that "playing hardball can be very dangerous".

Immediately engaging, Lis Wiehl's second book in the "Newmakers Novels" series is certainly suspenseful and border-line creepy with its psycho under tones, leaving readers hanging on by a thread, until the very end.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions state are entirely my own.

This is a finely crafted, taut, modern thriller. It takes readers inside the current explosion of news and comment electronic channel, of blogging, punditry, false panic, alternative facts and similar fact and fiction. The multiple levels of conspiracy are interesting and reflect the background of the author. In a general sense, the pace is relentless and largely compelling, if a little predictable at times.
Protagonist Erica Sparks, under almost constant pressure to improve her standing, in spite of the fact she’s at the top of the ratings list, seeks interviews with presidential candidates. The assignment takes her all over the country, where she encounters bombs, murder and suicide by gun, and a cabal of nasty characters aimed at the ultimate power grab. To explain more would reveal too much.
The author has devised a cast of intriguing characters, some beset with the kind of domestic problems many readers will recognize. The story is well-grounded in modern realities for the professional working mother. Still, therein lies the principal difficulty of the narrative. Every so often, Erica Sparks succumbs to the stupid bug. For a top reporter and anchor she misses several obvious clues that would have revealed the identity of her adversaries or at least warned her of impending danger.
Even with these small lapses, the book, well-described, carefully plotted, should raise the alarms in any reader who is aware of today’s society’s conflicting pressures, and the inimical forces of evil arrayed against us, regardless of constant protestations to the contrary.
The novel is intense, relentless and compelling. In spite of our awareness of the very contemporary setting and potential realities, it is, in the end, a novel.

The Candidate is a book that has you rushing through the pages, feeling the excitement of news reporter Erica Sparks as she covers the story of Mike Ortiz, leading polls and running for President of the United States and his rich and powerful wife Celeste.. There is more than enough suspense, and drive to keep Erica hot on this story that eerily feels like conspiracy and shocking events that happen to derail her leads.There is a mysterious Chinese woman, Lily who is Celeste's very close friend, and is strangely suspicious in Erica's eyes. Erica's 11 year old daughter Jenny, just wants her mom to spend more time with her and is fearful for her, that something bad will happen but Erica is driven, and her job takes her away one too many times. Erica knows there is something not right with Mike Ortiz, he seems to literally be under his wife's thumb in an inappropriate way and completely devoted to her. Erica digs deep into his capture and imprisonment when Mike was in the military and terrorized by Al Queda, sensing there is a big story that has to be told to the American people who may elect him to become president. Erica meets many folks who might help her, but can they be trusted? And can she trust her own fiance who recently has betrayed her? This book is captivating, although a bit sensational and at times hard to fathom the reality of the very events that happen, it is a fast paced page turner and quite interesting specially given the political climate and media journalism world we live in and read about. Thanks to Net Galley for sending me a copy of this book to review in exchange for an honest review.

"Americans want their presidents and movie stars to be idealized versions of themselves - better looking, smarter, richer."

I didn't know what to expect from this book. I actually requested it with some hesitation. I kept coming back to it, reading the description, and hesitating. Political thrillers have never been my cup of tea, and I don't have a good history with them.

But my curiosity got to be too much, so I gave it a shot. And hot damn, is this a roller coaster.

I didn't realize it was part of a series, so I didn't know anything about the character of Erica Sparks before I started. Thankfully, you don't need to know anything ahead of time to truly appreciate her. She's a reporter and a journalist who had a huge story that shook the world and got the head of her news organization (GNN. Clever.) put behind bars.

At the start of this book, the election is months away, and she wants a shot at moderating one of the debates. She likes both candidates, and wants to be a part of history. But as she quickly discovers, there's something very, very wrong with one of the candidates, and she needs to know what it is.

There is something a touch overwrought in this book. Erica jumps to the nefarious way too soon. This could be seen the same way Hilary was looked at during Bill Clinton's administration, where everyone said she was the power behind the presidency. But instead, she starts investigating like they are murderers and she has to go to the middle of ISIS control central to get to the bottom of it.

Okay, to be fair, more things happened before she went to the middle east, but my point still stands.

Celeste, the potential future first lady, is also a bit overdone. She gives off a very Regina-George-as-Miranda-Priestley vibe, with a pinch more psychopath added for good measure. Which normally I love! And I started out loving her. But the reveal that she wasn't as strong and clever as we first thought ruined the image for me, and the ending for her was not what it could've been.

All complaints aside, though, this is a really compelling, really interesting book. And if Lis Wiehl continues with an Erica Sparks series, I really do want to read more about her.

The Candidate pulls no punches. Right from the beginning we are told horrific things about Celeste Pierce Ortiz, the wife of upcoming presidential candidate Mike Cruz. She is pretty much a storybook example of an unlikable character. And just when you are thinking of bolting from reading about such a horrific person, the authors introduce Erica Sparks. She's the good guy. It turns out that Erica, a leading news reporter for CNN, oops, I mean GNN, the Google News Network, thinks that candidate Cruz might have something wrong with him. As she sets out to find out just what, people start to die. We find out that Celeste is in the crutches of Lily Lau, a successful Chinese woman who has worked her way into control of Celeste's business...and Celeste herself! Okay, now we have our cookie cutter bad person and cookie cutter dragon lady.
Let's move on to the nitty gritty. The bad women realize that Erica might be their nemesis. What to do? On one hand, they need her, on the other, they want her dead. I don't want to give any spoilers out, but a battle ensues. It comes down to the final debate. Will Cruz be like Ted Cruz, a losing candidate? Will Erica find love? How will it end? Will the good guys save the day? I can't tell you, but I do know that Megyn Kelly couldn't be more gracious. But she did leave Fox News, so maybe in the sequel she will be the dragon lady!!!

** “Isolation. Sensory deprivation. Fear. Indoctrination. Love.” **

Lis Wiehl continues the story of top-ranked TV newscaster Erica Sparks in “The Candidate,” a timely novel with its presidential election theme.

As Erica begins covering the life of democratic nominee Sen. Mike Ortiz, she beings to suspect that not all is as it seems. Sensing a strange relationship between Ortiz and his wife, Celeste, Erica begins to dig into his American hero story — of being captured by and then escaping from an al-Qaeda hostage and torture situation.

As she digs deeper into the situation, and tries to figure out why Ortiz at times almost seems brainwashed, more and more dangerous and fatal situations occur to those close to Erica. She must decide how far she, herself, is willing to go to get to the root of the story.

“The Candidate” is a fast-paced political thriller filled with intriguing characters, bombings, espionage, murder and treason. Wiehl, with support from fellow author Sebastian Stuart, does a great job of moving the storyline along, and keeping readers guessing as to how each event is connected — and who is responsible. Fans of Vince Flynn, Joel C. Rosenberg, David Baldacci or even Mary Higgins Clark will enjoy this book.

The novel also does delve into some issues we all struggle with, like insecurity, trust, determination and sacrifice.

Wiehl’s latest novel could definitely be read as a standalone, although it does refer to plot lines in the first book — so I’d recommend reading it too. I will say I actually liked “The Candidate” better than the series’ first installment. Sometimes the sequel can be better!

Five stars out of five.

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

"There are five core steps to gaining control of someone's mind: isolation, sensory deprivation, fear, indoctrination, love."

In this political thriller, news anchor Erica Sparks finds herself fighting ratings, experiencing tragedy, and suspecting foul play at the highest level; all in a matter of hours.

Her producer sends Erica to the front row of the upcoming presidential elections by allowing her to interview opposing candidates in their home environment, thus niggling a suspicion that something about the seemingly perfect candidate Mike Ortiz and his glamorous wife Celeste, begs a deeper view. Deeper in this case means sinister, and Erica is about to find out first hand that "playing hardball can be very dangerous".

Immediately engaging, Lis Wiehl's second book in the "Newmakers Novels" series is certainly suspenseful and border-line creepy with its psycho under tones, leaving readers hanging on by a thread, until the very end.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions state are entirely my own.

This is a finely crafted, taut, modern thriller. It takes readers inside the current explosion of news and comment electronic channel, of blogging, punditry, false panic, alternative facts and similar fact and fiction. The multiple levels of conspiracy are interesting and reflect the background of the author. In a general sense, the pace is relentless and largely compelling, if a little predictable at times.
Protagonist Erica Sparks, under almost constant pressure to improve her standing, in spite of the fact she’s at the top of the ratings list, seeks interviews with presidential candidates. The assignment takes her all over the country, where she encounters bombs, murder and suicide by gun, and a cabal of nasty characters aimed at the ultimate power grab. To explain more would reveal too much.
The author has devised a cast of intriguing characters, some beset with the kind of domestic problems many readers will recognize. The story is well-grounded in modern realities for the professional working mother. Still, therein lies the principal difficulty of the narrative. Every so often, Erica Sparks succumbs to the stupid bug. For a top reporter and anchor she misses several obvious clues that would have revealed the identity of her adversaries or at least warned her of impending danger.
Even with these small lapses, the book, well-described, carefully plotted, should raise the alarms in any reader who is aware of today’s society’s conflicting pressures, and the inimical forces of evil arrayed against us, regardless of constant protestations to the contrary.
The novel is intense, relentless and compelling. In spite of our awareness of the very contemporary setting and potential realities, it is, in the end, a novel.

The Candidate is a book that has you rushing through the pages, feeling the excitement of news reporter Erica Sparks as she covers the story of Mike Ortiz, leading polls and running for President of the United States and his rich and powerful wife Celeste.. There is more than enough suspense, and drive to keep Erica hot on this story that eerily feels like conspiracy and shocking events that happen to derail her leads.There is a mysterious Chinese woman, Lily who is Celeste's very close friend, and is strangely suspicious in Erica's eyes. Erica's 11 year old daughter Jenny, just wants her mom to spend more time with her and is fearful for her, that something bad will happen but Erica is driven, and her job takes her away one too many times. Erica knows there is something not right with Mike Ortiz, he seems to literally be under his wife's thumb in an inappropriate way and completely devoted to her. Erica digs deep into his capture and imprisonment when Mike was in the military and terrorized by Al Queda, sensing there is a big story that has to be told to the American people who may elect him to become president. Erica meets many folks who might help her, but can they be trusted? And can she trust her own fiance who recently has betrayed her? This book is captivating, although a bit sensational and at times hard to fathom the reality of the very events that happen, it is a fast paced page turner and quite interesting specially given the political climate and media journalism world we live in and read about. Thanks to Net Galley for sending me a copy of this book to review in exchange for an honest review.

I had read the first book in the Newsmakers series by Wiehl, so I was already familiar with her writing style. They are not books that readers can race through, but need to read for details and understanding. It took me awhile to get through The Newsmakers, so I anticipated that it would take me a bit of time to read this one.

There are clear similarities between this story and The Manchurian Candidate. It was pretty easy to understand the nuances in the relationship between Mike and Celeste early on. There were a couple of surprises toward the end of the book, that I thought made the ending go a bit more quickly, but overall this was not one of my favorite books.

If you are looking for a quick and easy read, this is not the book for you. However, if you enjoy a detailed read with a lot of nuances and connections to current events and politics, you will probably enjoy this book.

 I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

"Americans want their presidents and movie stars to be idealized versions of themselves - better looking, smarter, richer."

I didn't know what to expect from this book. I actually requested it with some hesitation. I kept coming back to it, reading the description, and hesitating. Political thrillers have never been my cup of tea, and I don't have a good history with them.

But my curiosity got to be too much, so I gave it a shot. And hot damn, is this a roller coaster.

I didn't realize it was part of a series, so I didn't know anything about the character of Erica Sparks before I started. Thankfully, you don't need to know anything ahead of time to truly appreciate her. She's a reporter and a journalist who had a huge story that shook the world and got the head of her news organization (GNN. Clever.) put behind bars.

At the start of this book, the election is months away, and she wants a shot at moderating one of the debates. She likes both candidates, and wants to be a part of history. But as she quickly discovers, there's something very, very wrong with one of the candidates, and she needs to know what it is.

There is something a touch overwrought in this book. Erica jumps to the nefarious way too soon. This could be seen the same way Hilary was looked at during Bill Clinton's administration, where everyone said she was the power behind the presidency. But instead, she starts investigating like they are murderers and she has to go to the middle of ISIS control central to get to the bottom of it.

Okay, to be fair, more things happened before she went to the middle east, but my point still stands.

Celeste, the potential future first lady, is also a bit overdone. She gives off a very Regina-George-as-Miranda-Priestley vibe, with a pinch more psychopath added for good measure. Which normally I love! And I started out loving her. But the reveal that she wasn't as strong and clever as we first thought ruined the image for me, and the ending for her was not what it could've been.

All complaints aside, though, this is a really compelling, really interesting book. And if Lis Wiehl continues with an Erica Sparks series, I really do want to read more about her.

The Candidate pulls no punches. Right from the beginning we are told horrific things about Celeste Pierce Ortiz, the wife of upcoming presidential candidate Mike Cruz. She is pretty much a storybook example of an unlikable character. And just when you are thinking of bolting from reading about such a horrific person, the authors introduce Erica Sparks. She's the good guy. It turns out that Erica, a leading news reporter for CNN, oops, I mean GNN, the Google News Network, thinks that candidate Cruz might have something wrong with him. As she sets out to find out just what, people start to die. We find out that Celeste is in the crutches of Lily Lau, a successful Chinese woman who has worked her way into control of Celeste's business...and Celeste herself! Okay, now we have our cookie cutter bad person and cookie cutter dragon lady.
Let's move on to the nitty gritty. The bad women realize that Erica might be their nemesis. What to do? On one hand, they need her, on the other, they want her dead. I don't want to give any spoilers out, but a battle ensues. It comes down to the final debate. Will Cruz be like Ted Cruz, a losing candidate? Will Erica find love? How will it end? Will the good guys save the day? I can't tell you, but I do know that Megyn Kelly couldn't be more gracious. But she did leave Fox News, so maybe in the sequel she will be the dragon lady!!!

** “Isolation. Sensory deprivation. Fear. Indoctrination. Love.” **

Lis Wiehl continues the story of top-ranked TV newscaster Erica Sparks in “The Candidate,” a timely novel with its presidential election theme.

As Erica begins covering the life of democratic nominee Sen. Mike Ortiz, she beings to suspect that not all is as it seems. Sensing a strange relationship between Ortiz and his wife, Celeste, Erica begins to dig into his American hero story — of being captured by and then escaping from an al-Qaeda hostage and torture situation.

As she digs deeper into the situation, and tries to figure out why Ortiz at times almost seems brainwashed, more and more dangerous and fatal situations occur to those close to Erica. She must decide how far she, herself, is willing to go to get to the root of the story.

“The Candidate” is a fast-paced political thriller filled with intriguing characters, bombings, espionage, murder and treason. Wiehl, with support from fellow author Sebastian Stuart, does a great job of moving the storyline along, and keeping readers guessing as to how each event is connected — and who is responsible. Fans of Vince Flynn, Joel C. Rosenberg, David Baldacci or even Mary Higgins Clark will enjoy this book.

The novel also does delve into some issues we all struggle with, like insecurity, trust, determination and sacrifice.

Wiehl’s latest novel could definitely be read as a standalone, although it does refer to plot lines in the first book — so I’d recommend reading it too. I will say I actually liked “The Candidate” better than the series’ first installment. Sometimes the sequel can be better!

Five stars out of five.

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

Wow! What an entertaining read from Lis Wiehl. This book was a quick read for me and had me turning pages as fast as I could to find out what would happen next. Politics and the news combine perfectly for an edge of your seat, must-read book.

This book made me feel as if I was getting a behind the scenes look in the news world and in the political world. Erika Sparks is a character women can relate to. She is strong yet flawed. She takes her job seriously and wants to be at the top of her field. At the same time she also wants to be the perfect mom to her daughter and the struggle she faces trying to do both jobs is well documented in the story. While I instantly liked Erika, Celeste Ortiz and Lily Lau were characters I immediately didn't care for. The author did a great job of giving each character their own personality that really stood out throughout the book. One character I would have liked to see more of was Josh Walters. I immediately liked him and thought his calm personality was a great balance to Erika's more uptight persona.

This book takes place in many different places as Erika follows Mike Ortiz on the political trail. I really felt like I was in all those places. From the streets of New York City to San Francisco, Dubai, and Iraq, I felt like I was a part of this story. There are some really intense scenes that take place in Iraq and they were so well written it was like I was there.

I was most impressed with the author's word choices and descriptions. One of my favorite quotes from the book is on page 50, "Often, the more people try to conceal, the more they reveal." This sentence conveys a lot of what will happen in the story and makes the reader stop and think at the same time. Another wonderful description can be found on page 63, "She's got a pebble in her psychic shoe, and she knows she won't be able to rest until she can shake it out." Descriptions such as this made the story so interesting to read. To me this description really lets the reader know how aggravating the thought in her head was to her until she could get it to the forefront of her mind.

This book is well-written and has a great flow to it. Several times I planned to read just until the end of the chapter but then the chapter would end with a sentence that made it impossible to put the book down. Lis Wiehl knows how to grab a reader's attention and not let it go.

Political junkies, news junkies, and suspense lovers are sure to enjoy this book. Lis Wiehl has now been added to that list of "must read authors" I have. In fact, I purchased the first book in this series, The Newsmakers, before I was finished with this one. Don't worry though, this book reads great as a standalone. I can't wait for more Erika Sparks books!

I received a free copy of this book from Book Look Bloggers. All opinions are mine.

If you think this election season has been crazy, just wait until you read about the one in Lis Wiehl's latest novel (written with Sebastian Stuart) called The Candidate. There are bombs, murder-suicides, and people who aren't what they seem.

Erica Sparks is a popular journalist with her own show on the cable news network GNN. She prides herself on having integrity and doing her job the right way no matter what. Her network sends her to cover the Democratic candidates for president. It's a routine job, right? But Erica soon becomes embroiled in something bigger and her journalistic instincts just can't let it go. There's just something off about candidate Mike Ortiz.

The more Erica seeks, the more unsettling her feelings about Ortiz. But how far will she go if it puts not only herself but her daughter and her new beau in jeopardy, too?

This book is part of a series called Newsmakers, and I haven't read any of those, so I don't know what they are about, but I did feel like maybe they covered some backstory that would have been helpful for me to know. A few times in the beginning of the book, references were made to Erica's earlier life and some investigation she lead at GNN, but I had no idea what any of it meant. (It was further explained as I continued reading the book.)

But still, this was a really fascinating read with a lot of different elements and storylines. I was a bit skeptical at first because the author is a commentator for the Fox News Channel, so I expected it to be full of things that offended me. Not the case! (My favorite part: when the author throws in a random insult to Donald Trump.) But if descriptions of violent acts offend you, then you might want to steer clear of this book or ask me what pages those parts are on so you can mark them as pages to skip over.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers [...] book review bloggers 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.”

The Candidate is a political thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. That in itself is a good enough reason to read this book, especially if that genre is one you enjoy. But I also could relate to the struggle between work and family so accurately portrayed in this book. As a father who had to travel 9 months a year to earn money for his family, I could definitely relate to the tough decisions the main character had to deal with. The feelings I got from reading this were so real that it made me wonder if Ms. Wiehl was writing from experience.

Erica Sparks is that main character to whom I previously referred. An investigative reporter, she is the host of one of the most popular news shows on television. But that fame is a double edged sword. She is frequently required to travel in order to obtain her stories, leaving her 11 year old daughter with baby sitters or interns from the network. Not the ideal situation for either Erica or her daughter Jenny. But Erica is dedicated to her job and believes that the American people and the world deserve the truth. Once she begins a story, Erica will not stop until it is resolved, one way or another. Despite worrying about her daughter constantly, Erica seems to always put her job first, which is hard for Jenny to accept, and maybe rightfully so.

The story Erica is working on in this novel has to due with one of the candidates running for president, Mike Ortiz. During the primaries, a bomb takes out Ortiz's main rival, practically handing him the parties nomination. But something about Ortiz doesn't seem quite right to Erica. He is constantly looking to his wife Celeste for approval whenever he is asked a question. He is rarely alone without his wife, and Celeste is constantly with her mentor Lily Lau, who is the daughter of the former Chinese trade minister. Also, Mike Ortiz seems practiced and too smooth in his actions, often giving a smile at inappropriate times. So Erica gets the itch to investigate this man, who is just a heartbeat away from the oval office, as well as his wife. Her search for the truth takes her from New York to San Francisco to Iraq and back. Many witnesses and potential allies conveniently turn up dead, spooking Erica somewhat but making her even more determined to find the truth. All during this time, Jenny is longing for more time with her mother, which tugs strongly at Erica's heart. A tough decision to make, Erica sticks with her story. What she finds is so incredible that it is hard for Erica to fathom and would be disastrous for the United States. But can she live long enough to bring her findings to the world? You will have to read the book in order to find the answer to that question.

I found the story a compelling read, and as I mentioned earlier tugged at my heart during the interactions between Erica and Jenny. The premise of what Erica found out about Mike Ortiz is a bit far fetched, but Lis Wiehl presents it in such a way as to make it seem possible. The language used by the author is basic and mostly profanity free, so I feel this would be appropriate for middle school children all the way up through adults. In fact, I would encourage adults to let their pre-teens to read this, especially if their jobs require a lot of their time, because I believe Erica accurately portrays the duality of feelings that working adults encounter. A solid 4 star read in my opinion, definitely worth your time. I would like to thank Lis Wiehl, Thomas Nelson, and NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book. I voluntarily accepted this on a no obligation basis, and did not guarantee a review or that any review would be positive.

The Candidate
A Newsmakers Novel #2
By Lis Wiehl

Erica Sparks rose to the rating crown when she brought GNN founder Nylan Hastings down with her investigative journalism. The pressure is on her to stay on the top and with the Presidential Campaign getting ready to enter the last months she has plenty of potential stories to keep her viewers tuning in.

When tragedy strikes just feet away from where Erica is reporting the Democratic race for the Presidential nominee is drastically altered. Something is wrong, Erica just can't figure out what it is. And she is determined to uncover the truth.

Erica's life is finally becoming what she wants it to be. She has custody of Jenny, she lives in a nice apartment, she's engaged, and she's the nation's top-rated cable-news host. But everything isn't the way she expected it to be. Her job keeps her away from Jenny more than she wants. Her fiance, Greg Underwood, is in another country. And her ratings aren't assured.

The upcoming Presidential election is a chance for Erica to prove that she is more than just a pretty face who got a lucky break. This election will be historic no matter the outcome - the Democratics have Mike Ortiz who could be the first Latino President and the Republicans have Lucy Winters who could be the first woman President. Erica is dedicated to revealing the truth about the candidates to the American people and her integrity is not for sale. But someone is determined to keep the truth under wraps and they are willing to do anything to keep it hidden.

Erica is about to find out just how far someone is willing to go to protect their secrets and she may not make it to election day!

Overall the book was pretty good. The switch from first person to third person in the presentation is at times a bit jarring to the story flow. I'm not a fan of this type switch in perspective, I have no problem with the change between character voice though as it adds depth to the characters. There are a couple of characters whom one just cannot like from the first moment they are mentioned. The drive of certain people to obtain their individual goal is almost unbelievable. I can't say that this behind the scenes look at campaigning makes one want to throw in their own hat - it can prove dangerous to your health.

Thomas Nelson is known as being a Christian publisher but this book like several of their other recent releases does not have a Christian element that is discernible.

I was provided an advanced copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review with no expectations of a positive review.

This was an interesting and enjoyable political and psychological thriller. The plot is an homage to "The Manchurian Candidate", with China playing the villain instead of Communist Russia. The star of the book is Erica Sparks, a hard-hitting journalist for GNN (the Google News Network) with the #1 rated news show on TV and a penchant for getting herself into dangerous situations. It is presidential election season and she is trying to angle a slot as a debate moderator to help raise her profile even further. She meets Senator Mike Ortiz, one of the Democrat candidates, and his wife Celeste, before a primary debate. Even considering his history of being kidnapped and tortured by Al Qaeda and then miraculously escaping, there is something about Senator Ortiz that seems "off" to Erica. When Senator Ortiz' primary challenger is killed by a bomb outside the site of the debate and in front of Erica, the Ortiz family, other media, and members of the public and no group claims responsibility and the bomber appears to have no motive for his actions, Erica becomes more curious about the Ortiz family and Senator Ortiz' strange affect/demeanor. Her search leads her deeper and deeper into a mystery and places family, friends, and sources at risk, but she feels compelled to keep on digging and learn the truth.

The release of this book in early October 2016 is well-timed considering the subject matter and the nasty general election taking place in the U.S., especially with suspicion of Russian efforts to influence the election (including hacking of DNC computers), the secretive and deceitful practices of the Democratic nominee and her surrogates, the manipulation of the press by the candidates (and their teams), and the manipulation of the public by segments of the press. If you like conspiracies, political thrillers, psychological warfare/manipulation, this book is for you.

I received a copy of the ebook from NetGalley in exchange for a review.

Erica Sparks is a tough, ambitious journalist who will stop at nothing to get to the truth. She will risk offending people, stepping on toes, even her very life in her tireless efforts to bring the truth out in the open before the American public. This dogged approach has led her to risk her life before as seen in book one of the series, The Newsmakers. In this second book, her nose for news leads her to pursue a conspiracy plot to gain control of the White House. Erica is also now dealing with her daughter living with her as she has gained custody of Jenny. Jenny faces adjusting to having a celebrity mother, going to a private school with wealthy peers as well as her mom being gone a lot for her job.
As Erica’s rating dip below #1 in viewership, her boss demands she get a lead story to catapult her to the top again. The presidential race is heating up, so Erica decides to do in-depth interviews with the candidates. Tragedy strikes before Erica can interview all the candidates, but once she meets Mike and Celeste Ortiz she knows something strange is going on. She has a gut instinct about this couple that something is very off about them and her gut is rarely wrong. The woman in charge of Celeste’s company and Celeste’s best friend, Lily, also adds another ruthless and weird dynamic to the relationship between Celeste, Mike and Lily. As Erica digs deeper, more people in her life die.
This is a good secular story, so I’m wondering why it is published by a Christian publisher and marketed toward a Christian audience. There is nothing about faith or Christianity in this entire book. Just a note to readers, in the prologue there is a risqué scene between Celeste and Mike. There is a great deal of emotional and psychological manipulation at work between Celeste and Lily. Their relationship is disturbing as Lily is a psychopath who thrives on being in control, and Celeste worships her, depends on her and will do anything Lily says. Also, the character of Becky, Erica’s personal assistant, was especially creepy! The mind games were multi-layered and involved many of the characters. The writing was well done and the book moves quickly, keeping readers engaged from beginning until the end. I thought the plot plausible and some of the events that happened in the story could have been pulled from any headline in any major city, which added realism.

Top-rated cable news host Erica Sparks has found great success working for GNN, but knows she needs to keep working harder than ever if her show is going to post higher ratings and her position is going to be further secured. With the next presidential election looming, Erica sets out to cover the candidates hoping to secure the next presidential win. But a sudden tragedy soon finds Erica investigating whether candidate Mike Ortiz and his wife Celeste are all they seem to be, or whether there is a layer of darkness hiding from the public's view. Erica's search for the truth soon finds her very life, and those she loves, at risk.

"The Candidate" is another edge-of-your seat thriller from Wiehl that is set at a break-neck pace. It was very difficult to put this book down, and the timing of this novel's release when there is a real-life presidential election underway in the USA makes the book all the more intriguing. Authors Wiehl and Stuart have offered up plenty of twists and turns that will keep readers guessing as they seek to figure out who is is in control and what exactly is going on. The book is written with a dark tone permeating the novel, and some readers unused to the subject matter may be turned off by the violence. However, as I typically enjoy suspense books, I found the scenes handled with an appropriate touch. And what I quite like about this book is that in the middle of all of the action, the authors are exploring Erica's relationship with her daughter, adding a complexity to the story as their relationship and the choices Erica makes add a whole other danger to the story. From start to finish, I found myself to be thoroughly entertained!

All in all, those who enjoy suspense books are going to want to pick up a copy of The Candidate. I enjoyed it even more than the first book in the series! I award the novel a solid rating of 4 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.

Erica Sparks, top news anchor at GNN, is struggling to be both a star journalist and a perfect mother. She knows she’s not succeeding very well when her boss tells her that her ratings are slipping and she has to do something about it. Likewise, she always seems to be disappointing her daughter, Jenny.

It’s the season of the presidential election. Erica is attending an appearance of both candidates, Fred Buchanan and Senator Mike Ortiz. Erica is positioned near the entrance. The Ortiz’s stop to speak to her, and Erica notices that Mike constantly looks at his billionaire wife, Celeste, for approval. This raises Erica’s suspicions that something isn’t right. When the Buchanan’s arrive they also pause for a moment. A man bursts through the crowd, drops a satchel, and suddenly there’s an explosion that kills the Buchanans and several bystanders.

Erica’s instincts are thoroughly aroused. She has to find out what bothers her about Mike Ortiz. It turns into a twisted tale that results in the deaths of the people helping her. Now Erica feels she must find the answer.

The second book in the Newsmakers series is filled with intrigue and violence, particularly at the end. I thought this book was better than the first book. Erica is more comfortable as a journalist and takes risks to unravel a mystery that affects the whole country.

The theme of the plot is how outside interests try to control a presidential election and ultimately the country. It was very pertinent at this season with the presidential election underway. I recommend this book if you enjoy a good political mystery. The characters are engaging. The book is fast paced, and it’s hard to guess the underlying motivations until the very end.

I received this book from Net Galley and Thomas Nelson for this review.

If a reader enjoyed The Manchurian Candidate or Capricorn One (artisan), that same reader will likely enjoy Lis Wiehl’s newest political thriller, The Candidate (A Newsmakers Novel).

The Presidential election is drawing nigh, the Republican and Democratic candidates have been selected, polls are predicting a winner, but to Erica Sparks, GNN’s number one news reporter, something seems amiss. One candidate does not seem himself and Erica is determined to find out why. Her search will take her from New York City, to Washington, D.C., to the San Francisco Bay Area, Portland, Cleveland, Iraq, and Seattle among others.

In the search to find the answers she needs, she may lose her family, her friends, and her life; but finding the answers may determine the future of America and the rest of the free world. She will not stop looking for the truth.

The novel would make a wonderful thriller on the big screen - with big name players, a movie based on this novel’s plot would easily hold an audience’s attention. Maybe more so than the book itself. The biggest flaw in the book is the writing style. At times it feels as if the writing is disjointed, full of simple sentences, not as if coming from the pen of an accomplished and skilled writer and lawyer.

With this single flaw, the book will appeal to those who are fans of James Bond, Jack Reacher, and Robert Langdon, will find this book inviting and worthy of their time. I did.
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This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.

Lis Wiehl has went beyond words. There is a surge of strong feeling pumping through every page of this story. THE CANDIDATE is a true masterpiece. It grabbed this reader from the get-go, and would not let me go. Such power! Such drama! Some of the series of events were so fast-paced, I thought I was running a marathon. A gripping story from the first page to the last, with so much action and intrigue. First bombings, then shootings. When would it all end? The thought of all that evil, and not caring who or what gets in the way, coming in such strong waves. Then Erica feeling this stab of guilt; plus on top of that a feeling of loss that turned her once twinkling eyes into deep pools of sadness. I felt her sadness in this sad but fascinating tale. Even with all of her journalistic abilities, and after all the digging up and searching for the right answers, would Erica ever learn the truth? But she couldn't give up. Not even after so much that has happened. She was determined to see this thing through, no matter what. The lack of not knowing what really happened, or who or what caused the bombing and shooting kept eating at Erica. And suddenly, she felt fear take hold of her and thought, somehow, all of this could be her fault. But how? Is this going way beyond what the citizens want or need? Is Erica about to loose everything and everyone she has ever loved? Will she learn the truth too late? I received this book at no cost in exchange for my honest review. A wonderful, and interesting must read.

Erica Sparks is back and more inquisitive than ever as she is following the Campaign Trail for the Presidential election. The beginning of the novel is shrouded in a horrific act of terror that is witnessed firsthand by Erica as well as many other innocent bystanders. She is able to observe one of the candidates' responses/reactions as the terror unfolds right in front of him and his wife. Erica begins to formulate some opinions that she will continue to research and seek validation on as to whether or not she is on the right track or simply grasping at straws. As the novel continues, Erica comes to discover many things - about being a Mother, her daughter, her friends, her fiancé, making new friends, dealing with her past, what is ultimately important to her and just what THE STORY is worth. Wiehl certainly gives you much to ponder in this novel. From the moment you start the first page until you finish the last, you really can't help but wonder, "What if ... ?" I would rate it at 4.5 due to one part I found way too implausible (no spoiler here) but it is a really great read otherwise. The whole Chinese "mind control" tactics remind me we're but a generation away from people being able to testify that went on/happens! I want to thank Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for the review copy provided. I was not required to write a review and the thoughts expressed are my own.

The Candidate by Lis Wiehl is the latest new novel in the Newsmakers series. Lis Wiehl couldn't have planned her novel better... in time when the presidential campaigns are happening. No one trusts the government. Exactly what one would do to become the next president is a dark thought. With the technology of today and money made available, anything can happen. My thoughts were running back and forth like crazy. The suspense killing me. I had to read this new novel. Then, take the interesting yet peculiar couple that is trying to win seats in the White House. Both persons are a mystery. Where their intentions really lay is a question for Erica Sparks to solve. But with any kind of digging like this can bring a danger Erica never wanted. The danger that could come after, the one she loves the most...her daughter. The Candidate is a political thriller that will lure all readers in like a magnet. I was captivated, intrigued, and hooked. Lis Wiehl's writing is one that entertains and drags readers deep into her worlds of fiction. Killings, witnessing, and an investigation that sent my heart racing. Family life is complicated but as much as Erica Sparks. She is the main character that proves to be a strong heroine. Overall, I recommend this new read to readers everywhere.

Erica Sparks is a top-rated cable network newscaster who suspects that the Democratic Presidential candidate has been brainwashed by the Chinese. Now the Chinese are manipulating events to make sure he is elected as the next President of the United States. Erika sets out to find out who the players are in this conspiracy and reveal them to the public before election day.
"The Candidate" is a fast-paced, gripping story that will keep you guessing who can and who can't be trusted, right along with Erika. Lis Wiehl and Sebastian Stuart have crafted a compelling story with many surprises. The reader is also educated in the workings of television news.
The only part of the storyline I didn't like was the relationship between Erica and her eleven-year-old daughter. Erica fought to have Jenny live with her, but Erica always puts her job before her daughter. Whether it is being away from home for days at a time, or putting herself in danger, Erica does not appear to deserve having her daughter living with her. This trait of the main character kept me from completely liking her. Maybe that was the intent of the writers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I received this book for an honest review from the Fiction Guild. This is the second book in this series about a hard hitting new reporter Erica Sparks. She is strong and get the story put in the process she scare a lot of people. And she she doesn't pull punches. She is engaged to Greg and he is in Austrilia and they are trying to work things out while in 2 different countries and she finally has her daughter Jenny living with her full time in NY. But her new challenges is her boss about her ratings and they are going into the final stages of a Presidential campaign. 2 candidates for one party and 1 candidate for the other. While she is doing her reporting one of the candidates and his wife get blown up and it tickles something in Erica that makes her think there is something really wrong with Mike Ortiz and this starts some hard investigating and finding out what, where, why and how. The twist and turns never end in this book and its a wonderful read. Can't wait to see if we are going to get another suspenseful book out of the series. I don't see Erica giving up her hard hitting news reporting yet.

This is the second book in the Erica Sparks series. I reviewed the first book in this blog post. In the last book, Erica was able to rise among the racks to achieve a top news reporter position, as the network head had planted crashes, poisonings, etc. to get her - and his network - to notoriety and a ratings king.

This second book follows Erica's relentless pursuit of the truth in the world of political intrigue and media speculation surrounding presidential candidate Mike Ortiz. Nothing is quite as it seems in the world of politics, and this is no different, especially when Erica digs deeper into what appears like Mike's picture perfect wife, Celeste.

As in the last book, I found Erica's character mostly likable, and perfectly flawed. Her relationship with her daughter seemed pretty dysfunctional, which made sense because she was quite focused on her career, and I'm not sure how anyone working in the news - such a fast paced environment - wouldn't be required to spend so much time at work. Suspenseful and interesting, I enjoyed reading this book.

Disclaimer: I received this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.

It became increasingly clear to me as I was reading that this was the second of a series (I frequently start reading without checking blurbs, so as not to be influenced by others' opinions), but the relevant facts from the previous adventure were adequately delineated so that other than wanting to actually read the first book to unravel the entire adventure, my enjoyment of this one was not abated. A very timely release date, just before the elections, highlights the story which is about . . . a presidential election. Despite the occasional "deus ex machina" this was a tightly woven plot, well-paced and exciting, playing on fears that have been around since at least the cold war. No spoilers but I will admit I wasn't sure which of two potential endings would play out--with radically different consequences!

Disclaimer: "I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own." Please note, however, that I SELECT the books I want to read, much as you do, with an expectation of enjoyment. Should the book fail to live up to my expectations I'll so warn you! This one did not fail.

I was mildly disappointed with Lis Wiehl's first novel in this series, but she is back on her game with this gripping story that is perfectly timed for this turbulent political season. Wiehl crafts a tale containing frighteningly realistic circumstances and events. As in the first novel, Erica garnered my admiration and sympathy as she strove to uncover the truth behind the public facade of the Ortiz political machine while simultaneously dealing with challenging personal situations. Integrity and truth clash with power, manipulation, and greed in this political thriller that I read almost non-stop, eagerly turning pages as the story built to its heart-pounding climax. Don't miss this compelling novel.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a digital copy of this book free from Harper Collins/Thomas Nelson. 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.”

The Candidate by Lis Weihl and Sebastian Stuart is book two in the Newsmakers Series. The story was fast-paced and intriguing. I must admit, I wasn’t a huge fan of the first book in the series and was apprehensive about reading the second but it was very well done and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The present tense writing is a little strange for me and at times, distracting, but I found the story to be compelling and interesting.
Erica Sparks is a brave woman unwilling to go down without a fight. She’s determined to figure out what makes the presidential candidate so strange. Digging deeper into the man’s past, Erica finds herself entangled in Ancient Chinese brainwashing techniques and powers that stretch around the globe.
The Candidate is a fascinating read and I would absolutely recommend it. I received this book from the Fiction Guild and Thomas Nelson Publishers and have provided my honest opinion of the book here.

Erica Sparks works for GNN with her very own news show and at the top of her game.She loves her work and is at the last debate of the Democrat candidates waiting to talk to the candidates as they enter the building. As the second candidate approaches her a bomb goes off and kills Buchanan, his wife and a number of people around them. This leaves Senator Michael Ortiz as the Democratic candidate. His wife Celeste who is very wealthy in her own right works with him toward the presidency. On the Republican side is Lucy Winters. She is very middle class looking and just does not have that bling the Ortiz couple seems to have. There is something not quite right with Mike Ortiz though and Erica intends to find out what it is before the general election. Some time ago Mike Ortiz was on a humanitarian trip to Iraq when he was kidnapped. He was a prisoner for 9 months and 9 days. Erica feels this is where the change came in his life and she starts working to find out what happened to him during that time. There are murders, kidnapping and time is running out. A must read!

This is the second book in the Newsmakers series, but it stands on its own. The series features Erika Sparks, the host of The Erika Sparks Effect, at the GNN network. In this book she is covering the Presidential campaign. One of the candidates seems to be a little "off" to Erika and she thinks something might be going on. The candidate is abnormally dependent on his wife. As Erika investigates the story leads end up dead. Subtle and not so subtle threats are made against Erika and her life and those she loves are in danger. There are unknown forces that will stop at nothing to elect their candidate.

This book comes out at a convenient time with our Presidential election just around the corner. This book is filled with plenty of suspense and dirty politics that will keep you engaged from beginning to end. I look forward to another book in the Newsmakers series. The first 2 have been excellent reading. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy for a fair and honest review.

I find Lis Wiehl's stories intriguing even though they aren't necessarily of christian genre.
And with the upcoming presidential election I was interested to see if this story was about or ran parallel to what is happening in our society. (Sometimes authors write about societal happenings even though it's considered a work of fiction).
This story isn't just about politics though, it's about the Newsmakers, the second book in the series and told in the present tense.
Oh, and it's a thriller! And with a thriller comes a cloud of mystery.
Erica, is also one of the news makers and she feels that the candidates' wife, Celeste isn't what she seems...and what is the candidate Mike Ortiz's "real" story?!?!
Erica is one of the best, top-rated cable host so as she begins to dig deeper the stakes on her and her teen daughter's lives become higher.
An intersting and at.times.breathtaking suspenseful read.

*This book was provided for review by BookLook*

Congratulations Ms. Wiehl you have another winner!!! What a fantastically courageous story in today's environment - how true this could be. Erica is a reporter who believes there is a story regarding the presidential candidate Mike Ortiz. Mike Ortiz is married to Celeste who was rich and powerful. Mike was captured by Al-Qaeda. He takes all his cues from his wife - and I do mean all his cues. The closer she gets to finding out all about his past and her past the closer she gets to death - and someone hurting her daughter - so - what will happen to her? what happens to her daughter? will she ever truly find out the truth - the whole truth? was he really captured? why does he listen to her every word? You will not believe the answers. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.

When some oddities appear in the presidential campaign, Erica Sparks risks her life to discover the truth that could affect the nation and the world. Even as she is immersed in these events, the private side of Erica Sparks is revealed as we see her struggle with balancing the work she thrives on with her desires to be a great mom to the daughter she adores. She also has to work through feelings for Greg with whom she is trying to maintain a long distance relationship.

I recommend The Candidate. It has lots of twists and turns in the plot, a likable and well-developed main character, suspense, and political intrigue.

I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to Thomas Nelson for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

THE. CANDIDATE. Book 2 in Lis Wiehl , Newsmakers Series. A top notched look at what people will do to get what they want. We meet Celeste, who is beautiful on the outside, but shrewdest to the core. She likes having unattractive girls work for her. Their insecurity makes them putty to do her bidding. She wants the media in her corner,but can they be trusted. Then there is Erica, she has secrets, what are they, her newscasts doesn't reveal. Celeste is out to find out the secrets. Finding the truth puts Erica daughter Jenny in danger. Then Mike being groom for president. But, what happened when he was in Al- Qaeda prison for 9 months. A gripping story for power that turns deadly. Another winner for Lis Wiehl.
Given ARC by Net Galley for my honest opinion of which I have given.

Power hungry Celeste has husband and candidate Senator Mike Ortiz wrapped around her little finger and will stop at nothing to get him elected to the presidency. Erica Sparks finally gained custody of her daughter and her top rated news show dominates her market area. Erica needs a big story to stay on top and Celeste needs to control campaign publicity. As this story demonstrates, politics make strange bedfellows. It was interesting to read how far individuals might go to influence an election what people will risk to make sure the truth is revealed. A fun exercise would be reading the book and then watch new reports and debates that occur during a presidential election campaign to see if there are parallels between fiction and reality.

This is a fast-paced novel with intriguing characters, a frightening plot, and mile-a-minute action! Set just before a presidential election, cable network journalist Elizabeth Sparks finds something "off" about Presidential candidate Mike Ortiz. Determined to find the truth, Elizabeth investigates, even at the risk of her own life. What she uncovers is deeply disturbing, yet entirely plausible. Can she stop him from being elected? I can't say more without giving away spoilers. Let me just say this is an excellent read which kept me on the edge of my seat, turning pages as fast as I could.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book!

WOW! Just finished reading this page turner! I literally could NOT put it down! Especially with the upcoming election literally a couple weeks away, this book proved to be an enlightening tale! While it holds zero secrets into the current political turmoil, it does shed a little light into the back ground workings of a campaign whose sole purpose is to get their candidate to the presidency no matter the costs to others. The only aspect that I didn't like with this novel was the perfunctory blurbs of vocabulary that isn't used in every day vernacular of the ordinary population. I am sure that other words or phrases could be used in place of the ones the require the average reader to look them up for the context of the story. Beyond the use of inflated vocabulary splattered between the pages, the story that Lis Wiehl and Sebastian Stuart collaborated in writing was a delight and one that I am sure to reread again. Its been added to my favorites list already! Lis & Sebastian brought the main character Erica Sparks to life and portrayed her beautifully as a hard-working and driven journalist with a human aspect to her. They showed depth and continuity in each of the characters written into the story and brought about a story that was both compelling and lovable all at the same time. The flow of this novel made it hard to put down. There is so much that I want to say about this book, but my fear is that I would give away the best parts that make it a genuinely intriguing story. Erica's driving passion to get to the truth of a story as well as each candidate's drive and passion to get to the presidency lend to a remarkable blend of journalism and storytelling that is highlighted so well in this book!

Must read, folks!

Check out the full review at Kritters Ramblings

The second in a series and although the mysteries are self contained in each book there is character development from book to book, so you want to start at book one. I won't spoil anything in my review, so you can read on if you would like.

Erica Sparks remains the main character in this book and everything I said about her yesterday is still true in this book. I love her attitude, I love her spunk and I love what she gets into in this book.

Just how far would a person go to become President of the United States? The Candidate by Los Wiehl, the second book in the Newsmaker series, takes on that subject.

Could such a handsome man like Mike Ortiz, along with his equally stunning wife Celeste, become the next First Couple? Or will someone else win the election? Is Mike really a war hero? Is Celeste really who she appears to be?

In this political race there's the usual candidates with their spouses, the Secret Service, the FBI, political debates and fundraisers, reporters and all the ingredients that makes an election so fascinating for some. Plus a little coercion here, a little influence there, and a lot of money changing hands but in the end who you think is in charge really isn't. An absorbing book with unexpected twists.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley for a honest opinion.

I received a copy of The Candidate from Thomas Nelson and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This novel is a follow up to Wiehl’s book The Newsmakers. I liked the idea of the story, but it played out sort of creepy. I was so surprised that a mother would take the sort of risks that Erica takes when she has a daughter depending upon her. Maybe that was a little over the top? It was a novel about politics and what candidates will do to be elected. The relationship between Celeste and Lily was disturbing. Not sure what Wiehl was trying to accomplish, but it rubbed me the wrong way personally.

Have you read The Manchurian Candidate? Well, this is somewhat based on that but with a very interesting twist.

It is never a dull moment when you read this book. It starts with a journalist picking up the strange vibes between the candidate, Mike Ortiz, and his powerful and rich wife Celeste Pierce Ortiz. It is a subtle interchange between the couple, but it is unmistakeable to a seasoned journalist like Erika Sparks.

I definitely recommend this book to those of you who love your romance with a strong dose of suspense.

Main focus is on election scandal. It discusses media, entertainers, politicians and their influences on presidential campaigns and elections. Also there are vivid geographic and character descriptions. Interactions between mother and teenage daughter are quite compelling.
The reader feels as though they are witnessing events especially in view of current news. Yet ancient Chinese brain washing is also a part. Besides all that, there is romance and humor. In brief, the novel remains entirely fascinating and well written.

I was excited to read the latest thriller from Lis Weihl, and this book did not disappoint.

Erica Sparks is on top of her game in broadcast journalism; however, she cannot just rest on her laurels. She must continue to cover cutting edge stories and keep up with the latest and greatest. She starts to notice that one of the candidates for president has some idiosyncrasies that might lead to some serious problems if he is elected to the presidency. Erica digs deep to find the truth, too deep.

The book is fast pace, and the story line starts out believable. But toward the end, the story line becomes too fantastic and unreal. The book is definitely a work of fiction. Nonetheless, the writing is good and the story is a good read.

Thomas Nelson provided me a free copy of this book in exchange for this review which I freely give.

While a political thriller is not my normal genre, I really enjoyed this novel. Although I did not read the first book in the series, I had no trouble reading this one out of sequence. There is information that I missed, but would consider this to be a stand alone title. Fast paced, action packed and filled with great characters, this was a tense and entertaining read from start to finish.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

THE CANDIDATE is a must-read for October 2016! It’s a fast-paced thrill ride with interesting, three dimensional characters. If you like political thrillers, you should definitely check this one out.

Lis Wiehl hooked me completely. I will probably go back and read the first book in the Newsmakers series, while I am patiently awaiting the next Erica Sparks book.

I give THE CANDIDATE five stars (an A)!

(My full review can be read on my blog BOOKS THAT HOOK)

I just did not think politics could get any nastier, then along comes this book and nasty is now raised to an art form. Complete with complex conspiracies, giant size egos, murder on demand and mysteries that slowly untangle albeit at a fast pace read. It is an improbable scenario with definite possibilities one can only hope is never attempted. Provocative. A definite great read for an entertaining but reader is likely to dwell on this concept for some time. Could it?

The Candidate (A Newsmakers Novel) by Lis Wiehl is about political intrigue and media manipulation. It reminded me of The Manchurian Candidate written by Richard Condon. It is an intense story. I gave it four stars.

I received a complimentary Kindle copy from Thomas Nelson and NetGalley. That did not change my opinion for this review.

Link to purchase: The Candidate (A Newsmakers Novel)

How far will people go to see their candidate elected? How long will people wait to spring the trap on the American people? Given the election this year, this book was perfectly timed. Only Erica Sparks has the insight, integrity and determination to reveal the manipulation and intrigue in this election. Will it cost her her family and her life? For someone who is sick of politics, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Loved this book! Another winner in the Newsmakers series. This is a very fast paced mystery that grabbed my attention from the first page. It is a disturbing look into an attempt to infiltrate the presidency. Erica, a top journalist, is drawn to investigate oddities that she observes. That investigation leaves a trail of bodies in its wake as she gets closer to the truth.

If you enjoy political mysteries/thrillers, you will love this book. It is a must read for fans of the genre. If you've never read a book by this author, you are really missing out. She is on my must read authors' list. While this is part of a series, this is a stand alone novel.

The subject is very timely because of our recent election process. The premise is alarming and disturbing. Candidates to be the next president of the United States are in the process of campaigning to be nominated. Evil forces are in the mix to control their chosen candidate to the point of brainwashing. An excellent book to read.