2 days ago
Former reporter's new novel features Valley institutions — including Axios Phoenix
Christina Estes' new mystery novel is chock-full of local references, including one that's especially near and dear to our hearts — a fictional Axios Phoenix reporter.
The big picture: " The Story That Wouldn't Die," Estes' second book featuring tenacious television reporter Jolene Garcia, was officially released Tuesday.
The intrigue: There's a brief appearance by a fictional Axios Phoenix reporter whose name, Jessmy Doehm, is a mash-up of the two reporters who make this newsletter happen every day.
Estes was a longtime Valley journalist who spent years with KJZZ.
Zoom in: Garcia's latest adventure has her delving into City Hall corruption, a fitting follow-up to the Emmy-winning reporter's investigation into a controversial radio host's murder in Estes' first book.
Part of the story that revolves around development and the displacement of residents was inspired by Estes' reporting, she said.
Between the lines: The book in many ways is a love letter to Phoenix, with Garcia visiting restaurants and landmarks throughout town, including Miracle Mile Deli, Sweet Republic, Steele Indian School Park and Fair Trade Cafe.
It also opens with a fictionalized version of the 2016 incident in which then-Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton got stuck in an elevator at City Hall.
Estes told Axios that Luana's Coffee and Beer added a secret menu item because of the book, so pay attention to the references.
"The book's dedication says it all: "To Phoenix, for welcoming me, challenging me, and cheering me," she told Axios Phoenix.
My thought bubble: I was especially happy to see Garcia get lunch at Chino Bandito. The north Phoenix Chinese-Mexican fusion eatery has been one of my favorite restaurants for 30 years.
