Thinner, Blonder, Whiter — Elizabeth Maguire

This dashing debut novel opens with Julia Moran at the height of the publishing world and at the center of New York culture. As editor of the country's most prominent African-American writers, Julia is the white queen of black literature -- she's also sleeping with its reigning king, Samuel Reid. His bestselling book -- which she coauthored -- has made his support essential for any candidate's appeal to black voters in the current mayoral race. While candidates squabble over the issues, one issue takes top priority: improving the city's education. When a friend of Julia's turns up murdered and Samuel Reid mysteriously disappears, Julia leaves her day job in a quest for the truth. Ultimately, Julia emerges as a woman ready to tackle whatever may lie in her path.