Do you judge a book by its cover? While I'd like to say otherwise, a book's cover often catches my attention first. Of course, I always delve into the synopsis to gauge my interest, but an eye-catching cover can definitely pique my curiosity even more. While I may not be the best judge of cover art, I received Everybody Knows by Jordan Harper from the publisher earlier this year, and admittedly, its cover didn't immediately grab me. The LA skyline and enigmatic eyes at the top seemed washed out by the bright red background. After letting it sit on my shelf for a while, however, I eventually read the synopsis and found it intriguing enough to dive in. Surprisingly, the story inside proved to be much more enthralling than the cover might suggest.
Step into Mae Pruett's Los Angeles, a city where silence reigns, and secrets are shielded by whispers. Mae, a "black-bag" publicist for one of LA's most influential crisis PR firms, is the guardian of the rich, powerful, and morally questionable. She's become an expert at containing their most ruinous scandals, the kind of controversies that could destroy their status and reputation. When her boss is unexpectedly murdered, Mae embarks on a daring solo investigation, uncovering the labyrinthine operations of "The Beast," a complex network of lawyers, PR agents, and security firms that operates ruthlessly to protect the elite.
Mae's journey propels her into the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles, a world illuminated by neon hues and fueled by pharmaceuticals and illusions. She'll face the dichotomies unique to the city she inhabits like the luxurious mansions overlooking sprawling homeless encampments and encounters with corrupt police who break the very laws they are tasked to enforce. Seeking solace in her ex-lover Chris, a former cop turned private investigator, Mae becomes entwined in a battle against the forces she once served. Along the way, she might expose the hidden truths driving the city's powerful and corrupt aristocracy.
In Everybody Knows, Jordan Harper masterfully crafts a neo-noir thriller that seamlessly blends the genre's traditional elements with a contemporary twist. Drawing inspiration from noir's rich legacy, Harper brings it into the modern era with finesse. The novel encapsulates all the classic ingredients of crime noir. Two compelling antiheroes embroiled in moral dilemmas spark reader empathy. At the same time, the vivid Los Angeles backdrop becomes an integral third character, shrouding the narrative in a blend of atmospheric intrigue and darkness.
Harper skillfully navigates the dynamic between glamour and destitution, highlighting the morally ambiguous individuals that populate his tale. Amidst these timeless noir tactics, Harper introduces a plot deeply rooted in the present, delving into the complex implications of the "Me too" movement. He fearlessly explores the intricate balance between deserved consequences and the actual impact on those who wielded their power to exploit. This merging of classic noir methods with contemporary themes results in an engrossing, unputdownable thriller that leaves a lasting impact. Despite its unassuming cover, Everybody Knows is a true gem that shines as brightly as the neon lights of the city it is set in.
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(2023, 47)
Glad the story surpassed the cover! I hate when it goes the other way when the cover is amazing, but the story is lackluster.
ReplyDeleteAgreed! I'll take a great story no matter what the cover looks like over a cover that overpromises on what is inside.
DeleteI am a cover snob, and I get frustrated when the cover doesn't properly convey the "mood" of the story. I do think this cover did that even if it wasn't the most eye-catching. Sounds like the actual writing made up for the lackluster cover, and kudos to the author for bringing something fresh to the genre.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree. I try to give a book the benefit of the doubt, but this cover is just a miss. I'm grateful I decided to give it a deeper look. Otherwise I would have missed out on a fantastic book!
DeleteBecause of the type of books I read, PNR, it's the cover that usually makes me take a look at the blurb.
ReplyDeleteI could only imagine what kind of things people like that would cover up for the rich and elite. So I like the premise for this one.
I honestly wish I could say I was surprised at the lengths some of these people take to cover up their crimes/uphold their reputations, but I'm not. This is the stuff ripped directly from the headlines.
DeleteExcellent review as always. But then yours are always Brilliant
ReplyDeleteYou're too kind! Thanks for always reading and checking in!
DeleteI would love to say that I don't care about the cover but I wonder how many great stories I have missed because a cover failed to grab my attention.
ReplyDeleteThat would make for an interesting discussion topic! What are the best books with the worst covers?
DeleteI do find the cover impacts my decision to pick up a book. This cover doesn't really speak to me either. Glad to hear the story outshined it! It does sound like a thriller I'd enjoy too!
ReplyDeleteIt makes me wonder how many people have missed out on some fantastic writing just because the cover is subpar.
DeleteOh this is SO going on my TBR. Like right now (fantastic review!)
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