Dive into the pulse-pounding world of Clare Carlson, where gritty journalism meets high-stakes mystery in the heart of New York City! R.G. Belsky’s Clare Carlson series follows a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist turned TV news director as she unravels complex crimes, often involving powerful figures and forgotten victims. With her sharp wit and relentless pursuit of truth, Clare’s adventures blend thrilling plots with the chaotic allure of the media world, making this series a must-read for mystery lovers.
Clare’s journey is deeply personal, haunted by her own secrets—like the missing child case that launched her career. Her investigations peel back layers of corruption, ambition, and hidden truths, all set against the vibrant backdrop of NYC’s newsrooms. Ready to follow a tenacious reporter who never backs down? Let’s explore Clare’s captivating saga!
How Clare Carlson Began
R.G. Belsky, a veteran New York City journalist with stints at the New York Post, Daily News, Star magazine, and NBC News, created Clare Carlson to bring authenticity to the crime fiction genre. Drawing from his decades in the media, Belsky crafted a protagonist who embodies the relentless drive of a reporter chasing a scoop. The series kicked off in 2018 with Yesterday’s News, inspired by Belsky’s desire to explore the intersection of journalism and justice through a flawed, compelling heroine.
Belsky’s experiences covering real-life stories, including the O.J. Simpson case, shaped Clare’s world, where ethical dilemmas and personal stakes collide. His goal was to craft standalone mysteries that feel ripped from the headlines, each infused with the frenetic energy of a TV newsroom. Clare’s creation reflects Belsky’s belief that journalists, like detectives, are driven by a hunger for truth—no matter the cost.
The Heart of Clare Carlson
The Clare Carlson series spans six books, each a standalone thriller that dives into a new mystery. Yesterday’s News (2018) introduces Clare as she revisits the disappearance of 11-year-old Lucy Devlin, a case tied to her own past. Below the Fold (2019) sees her investigate the murder of a homeless woman, uncovering a web of corruption. The Last Scoop (2020) follows Clare’s probe into her mentor’s death, revealing a chilling serial killer. Broadcast Blues (2024), the latest, tackles a former cop’s car-bomb murder, exposing scandals among NYC’s elite.
The series shines through its themes of truth, integrity, and the cost of ambition. Clare’s first-person narration, laced with snappy dialogue and self-aware humor, pulls readers into her chaotic life—think Raymond Chandler meets a modern newsroom. Her investigations often spotlight society’s overlooked victims, challenging the media’s obsession with sensationalism. New York City itself is a character, its gritty streets and power corridors amplifying the stakes. Belsky’s insider knowledge ensures every newsroom scene crackles with authenticity, from backstabbing colleagues to ratings-driven bosses.
Clare’s personal struggles—three failed marriages, a secret daughter, and romantic missteps—add depth, making her both formidable and relatable. Her dogged persistence, likened to a “pitbull” by fans, drives twist-filled plots that keep readers guessing until the final page. Whether exposing political fraud or unmasking killers, Clare’s stories blend fast-paced action with introspective moments, offering a fresh take on the mystery genre.
Why Clare Carlson Resonates
The Clare Carlson series has carved a niche among mystery fans for its authentic portrayal of journalism and its fearless protagonist. Readers praise Belsky’s neck-wrenching plot twists and Clare’s irreverent charm, with Broadcast Blues hailed as a standout for its “snappy dialog and exciting plot.” The series’ focus on social issues—like media bias and marginalized victims—strikes a chord, reflecting real-world tensions. Awards, including the David Award for Yesterday’s News, underscore its critical acclaim.
Clare’s appeal lies in her humanity: she’s a hero who lies to get the story but fights for justice, balancing professional grit with personal vulnerability. Her stories resonate with anyone who’s ever questioned the headlines or rooted for an underdog. As Belsky continues to write, Clare’s legacy as a trailblazing fictional journalist grows, inspiring readers to seek truth in their own lives.
- First Book: Yesterday’s News (2018)
- Latest Book: Broadcast Blues (2024)
- Total Books: 6
- Awards: David Award for Best Mystery (2018), Foreword INDIES Best Mystery (2019)
Ready to chase scoops with Clare Carlson? Grab Yesterday’s News and step into a world of mystery, media, and unrelenting truth!