Christina Estes received the Tony Hillerman Prize for Best First Mystery Set in the Southwest for Off the Air. Her novel featuring a Phoenix TV reporter investigating the murder of a controversial talk show host was inspired by Christina's award-winning reporting career. A discussion guide with suggested questions can be found at the end of this bio.

During 20-plus years in Phoenix, Christina has covered presidential campaigns, public policy, education and business. Her stories have ranged from the whimsical - like a fish visiting a dentist - to the weighty - such as witnessing a lethal injection. Having worked for several local TV stations, Christina now reports for the NPR member station in Phoenix.

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Off the Air by Christina Estes
Discussion Guide

1. The novel’s opening includes this line: “Legally speaking, Larry turned out to be a victim. But not in everyone’s eyes.” Why do you think the author chose to describe Larry’s murder that way? How did you feel about his death?

2. Earlier in her career, Jolene mistakenly reported someone had died in a car crash when, in fact, they were expected to fully recover. How did you feel about her reporting? Have you ever posted something on social media and quietly deleted it? Do you think Jolene should have deleted rather than publicly acknowledge the error?

3. Off the Air takes you behind the scenes of local news. Did anything surprise you?

4. Jolene is challenged by Jessica “JJ” Jackson, a rival at another station. How does she handle the competition? Do you think Jolene could have managed things differently?

5. At times, Jolene gets exclusive information but she promised her source she wouldn’t report it. Do you think she should’ve used the information without identifying her source?

6. Larry Lemmon’s murder is the biggest story of Jolene’s career. Her ambition sometimes frustrates those around her. Could you relate to Jolene’s actions or did you wish she had behaved differently?

7. According to Larry ex-wife, he scoffed at the idea of therapy, which Jolene understood. She thought, “What’s the point in rehashing your childhood? Can’t change it.” Do you agree? Why or why not?

8. Jolene’s grandmother was not the type to give hugs and kisses and say, “I love you” but they shared a connection through Wheel of Fortune. Do you have a TV show, movie or a song from your childhood that evokes a feeling of love, security or belonging?

9. Off the Air has references to real places in Phoenix, including Metrocenter Mall. When demolition plans were announced, it was big news. Do you have memories of a local business that is no longer around?

10. Off the Air is the first in a series. What do you think the future holds for Jolene?