Books like Hot Spot by Michael Craft

Mark Manning has spent a career as a journalist unearthing riots, murder, and political corruption. His world is turned upside‑down when he, his lover Neil Waite, and nephew‑ward Thad Quatrain agree to host the wedding of their friend Roxanne Exner in the quiet town of Dumont, Wisconsin. Roxanne’s husband‑to‑be, Carl Creighton, is finalising a campaign for lieutenant governor of Illinois, and the town hopes the nuptial will keep the couple out of political limbo. The ceremony itself proceeds without incident, but the reception is marred by the sudden death of a local matron who was a major donor to Creighton’s rival’s campaign. What appears to be a freak electrical mishap turns out to be murder, and the local police quickly pin the crime on Roxanne. With the town’s eyes on her and the political stakes higher than ever, Mark must race against time to chase clues, challenge assumptions, and reveal who truly orchestrated the deadly plot. Guided by his investigative instincts and the help of his close allies, Mark navigates the murky intersection of personal relationships, civic pride, and statewide politics. His quest is not only to exonerate Roxanne and secure the town’s peace but also to protect the future of Carl’s campaign and the stability of Dumont itself.

First publish date: 2002