In this week’s Jen’s Jewels, we dive into the world of modern media with Holly Baxter, author of the captivating debut novel CLICKBAIT. Baxter explores the chaotic and ethically murky world of clickbait journalism through the eyes of a once-successful journalist, Natasha, whose life unravels after a career-ending mistake. Set against the desolate backdrop of Rockaway Beach, CLICKBAIT blends dark comedy with serious themes, offering a sharp critique of today’s media landscape. Join us as Holly Baxter shares the inspiration behind her book, the complexities of her flawed protagonist, and her thoughts on balancing humor with darker, more serious undertones. Whether you’re a fan of sharp satire or just curious about the inner workings of a newsroom, this conversation is not to be missed!   Jennifer Vido: What inspired you to write about a disgraced journalist’s journey in the world of clickbait media? Holly Baxter: I’m the kind of sunny, optimistic person who always likes to think about the worst-case scenario – and as a journalist and a (fairly) recently married person, I decided to turn those anxieties into a book. I made Natasha make the worst mistake possible in her job that was still plausible and dumped her in…

1–What is the title of your latest release? CLICKBAIT 2–What’s the “elevator pitch” for your new book? Natasha is a journalist who’s just made a huge mistake, professionally and personally. It’s a mistake that cost her everything: her prestigious journalism job, her marriage, a lot of her friendships, and a great big chunk of her sanity. In self-imposed exile at the Rockaways on the edge of New York City, she now churns out clickbait stories for a tabloid obsessed with lurid tales of sex and death. Then her ex moves into the spare room — and a dangerous obsession begins. 3–How did you decide where your book was going to take place? I always write about the place where I’m currently living, so I knew the book was going to take place in New York. But I grew up in a cold country by the sea and I wanted an atmospheric backdrop for Natasha’s breakdown that underlined the isolation she’d brought upon herself. I always wondered what it might be like to live in one of those high-rises at Rockaway Beach during the off-season. I wrote how I imagined it and then, during edits, my amazingly dedicated copy-editor suggested I…