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)
