Alex Powell is a black woman journalist working for an L.A. newspaper. While attending a convention for blacks in the news industry, she is sent to see why the award-winner isn't at the banquet, and finds him dead in his hotel room.

Because of their knowledge of, and access to, the people involved, the police ask Alex and her friend Paul to help with the investigation. There are, sadly, no lack of suspects. The dead man had been a womanizer and had also infuriated people in his business dealings.

I found out about this series because the author collaborated on the memoirs of Ann Nixon Cooper, which I enjoyed. Since I like mysteries thought I'd give this a try, and am glad I did. Bates creates good characters. The plot was ok...the weakest character for me was the victim, who seemed a bundle of contrariness. I liked it well enough to read the second in the series. So far there are only those two, and I'd like to politely request that more be forthcoming! ( )

Uncomplicated amateur sleuth mystery. African-American female protagonist. Quick read for a plane or the beach.