The Senator

For fans of Louise Penny, a riveting political thriller set in today's Washington D.C., exploring the high stakes of power and corruption.

US Senator Oliver Michaels of Maine campaigned on the hopes of changing Washington. One year after becoming the youngest senator in Congress, Oliver finds himself disheartened by systemic bureaucracy, partisan finger-pointing, the power of lobbyists, and the collapse of his marriage.

When New York Times reporter Alex Broussard shows up at his office, Oliver is presented with a shocking corruption scheme involving two congressmen, the head of the Environmental Protection Agency, and a chemical manufacturer.

With this real opportunity to clean up dirty DC politics, Alex reignites Oliver’s pledge to help people lost in messy legislative battles and abandoned by government in sacrifice zones. Yet, lofty political aspirations aren’t the only things burning with passion. Working side by side, Alex and Oliver, once an item in college, realize feelings still linger for one another.

Alex and Oliver’s efforts to expose the unlawful plot also uncovers the fact that they are pawns in a rigged game hosted by those who will do anything to keep their positions of power and their wallets padded - even kill. The stakes continuously rise, putting Alex, Oliver, and their family and friends in grave danger. Each must decide what’s more important; the safety of their loved ones or the health of the public.

Maya Golden Bethany is an award-winning multimedia journalist, recognized with an Associated Press award and an Emmy nomination. Her debut memoir, "The Return Trip," was released in November 2023. Founder of the 1 in 3 Foundation, Maya provides support for survivors of sexual trauma in East Texas. Her extensive broadcast career includes roles as a sports anchor, reporter, and television production editor, with features on ESPN, Bally Sports, and more. Additionally, she is a dedicated advocate for children's welfare organizations and a member of the Writer's League of Texas. Maya recently earned a second-place award at the Martha's Vineyard Institute of Creative Writing 2024 Parent-Writer Fellowship.