The Listby Karin Tanabe
From a former Politico reporter, a fast-paced debut novel about a young journalist at D.C.’s hottest (and most cut-throat) political rag who uncovers a scandal sure to turn the Beltway inside out.
Meet Adrienne Brown, a twenty-eight-year-old Wellesley College grad who recently left her glamorous job at Town and Country for a spot the Capitolist. Known simply as “The List” to Beltway insiders, it's the only media outlet in D.C. that’s actually on the rise. Taking the job means accepting a painful pay cut, giving up perks like free Louboutins, and moving back in with her parents, but Adrienne is certain that her new position will be the making of her career. And it is—but not at all in the way that she expects. The Capitolist runs at an insane pace: She’s up at 5:00 in the morning, writing ten stories a day (sometimes on her Blackberry, often during her commute), and answering every email within three minutes. Just when it seems like the frenetic workload is going to break her, Adrienne stumbles upon a juicy political affair, involving a very public senator—and her most competitive colleague. Discovering that there’s much more to the relationship than meets the eye, Adrienne realizes she’s got the scoop of a lifetime. But should she go public with the story? (synopsis and cover image via Netgalley).
Meet Adrienne Brown, a twenty-eight-year-old Wellesley College grad who recently left her glamorous job at Town and Country for a spot the Capitolist. Known simply as “The List” to Beltway insiders, it's the only media outlet in D.C. that’s actually on the rise. Taking the job means accepting a painful pay cut, giving up perks like free Louboutins, and moving back in with her parents, but Adrienne is certain that her new position will be the making of her career. And it is—but not at all in the way that she expects. The Capitolist runs at an insane pace: She’s up at 5:00 in the morning, writing ten stories a day (sometimes on her Blackberry, often during her commute), and answering every email within three minutes. Just when it seems like the frenetic workload is going to break her, Adrienne stumbles upon a juicy political affair, involving a very public senator—and her most competitive colleague. Discovering that there’s much more to the relationship than meets the eye, Adrienne realizes she’s got the scoop of a lifetime. But should she go public with the story? (synopsis and cover image via Netgalley).
My Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The first two-thirds was the set up - entertaining and frequently laugh out loud funny. The final third had a totally different tone. While still sometimes funny, this part was much more serious and suspenseful. Adrienne must decide what to do with the story she has uncovered and how to deal with the impact of her decision.
I thought the author did an excellent job of keeping the story moving. I loved the humor. I thought the ethical aspect Adrienne’s dilemma rang true for the media crazy world we live in. Bravo on this debut, Ms. Tanabe. I am looking forward to reading future books from you.
My thanks to Atria Books and Netgalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for an unbiased review.
Publish date: February 5. 2013.
Awesome review, this one sounds interesting and I like the mix of suspense and fun.
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