Deadlines: A Novel of Murder, Conspiracy and the Media

Paul McHugh
Lost Coast Press (2010)
ISBN 9781935448044
Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views (11/10)

 

“Deadlines” is a story that incorporates murder and conspiracy to give the reader a glimpse into the drive, competition, and deadlines of the newspaper world. Author, Paul McHugh, himself, reported news for the San Francisco Chronicle for twenty years.

When an elderly land-use activist, Beverly Bancroft, dies on a remote stretch of California shoreline, a young reporter, Sebastian Palmer, is assigned to write the story. He calls on his friend, Elle Jatobá, rock climbing instructor and martial arts expert for help. They come to the conclusion that Bancroft’s death may be a murder disguised as an accident. Veteran columnist Colm MacCay is assigned to mentor Palmer.

Palmer becomes the victim of a vicious assault. While Palmer lies comatose in the hospital, MacCay, a troubled alcoholic, convinces Elle to help him revive his own derelict investigative skills, and to discover what happened to Palmer. They soon find that a corporate land-grab scheme is behind both attacks. MacCay’s career, their lives, and the fate of the California coast are in jeopardy as the plot plummets to an unexpected dramatic conclusion.

McHugh’s familiarity with the environmental issues of the San Francisco Bay Area, the political scene in Sacramento and the Northern California’s rugged coastline add to the enjoyment and appreciation of his writing. A unique feature of the book is found in his narrative style. Early chapters are presented using a combination of the first person voice of veteran columnist and former investigative reporter Colm MacCay, and a third person narrative. McHugh’s use of the name MacCay for his protagonist may hint at a biographical underpinning in the story.

I became personally became engaged with McHugh’s main characters, Colm, Sebastian, Elle, and Cheryl. Each played an important role in the development of the various elements introduced in the complex, fast moving plot. The novel is rich in background information on rock climbing, environmental issues, investigative reporting, emergency medicine, and the media.

McHugh’s underlying message (through McCay) comes from a passion for responsible media reporting. He describes journalism as:  “… a process, not an event. Its whole function is ongoing feedback. Social, political, and economic feedback. That’s what gives people a chance to correct course.”

“Deadlines” is highly acclaimed by best selling authors, newscasters, and local law enforcement personnel for its memorable characters, meaningful message, intriguing plot, and fast-moving action.

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