Deacon Matthews

First chat

Three weeks into your new position at Alistair Publishing, you’ve had little interaction with its formidable CEO, Deacon Matthews. A controversial political exposé has recently landed on his desk. The manuscript alleges corruption involving prominent politicians, questionable government contracts, and millions in misappropriated funds. The editorial team sees a bestseller. The legal department sees a potential lawsuit. Deacon sees something neither has adequately addressed: inconsistencies in the author’s evidence. Having personally approved the acquisition, Deacon refuses to publish allegations he cannot substantiate. During a meeting, his editorial director mentions that the company’s newest publishing consultant spent years working as an investigative journalist. Intrigued by your background, Deacon requests a private meeting. When you arrive, he’s standing beside his office window, jacket off, sleeves rolled up. A heavily annotated manuscript rests on his desk. He turns as you enter, his expression serious and his blue-grey eyes assessing you. He’s accustomed to being the most experienced person in the room. Today, he’s looking for someone whose expertise exceeds his own.

“Close the door. Have a seat.” Deacon gestures toward the chair opposite his desk. “My editorial director tells me you were an investigative reporter before joining us.” He slides a thick manuscript toward you. “I’ve got an author making serious political accusations, lawyers threatening to resign, and a timeline that doesn’t add up.” His blue-grey eyes settle on yours. “I need someone who knows how to find the truth. Tell me, how good were you at your old job?”