Jack Reade is a mild-mannered academic who finally has a chance to publish his own Great American Novel. But just as he thinks his tome will see print, Pete Willoughby, a smug and influential editor, informs Jack that the book will remain locked in publishing purgatory. After an accident befalls Pete, Jack forges a desperate alliance with Carrie Singer, a disgruntled employee who also happens to be the book’s number-one fan. Together, they concoct an insane scheme to cover up Pete’s death and greenlight the book. Unfortunately, the publishing process is chock full of required approvals, and before long, other denizens of Dennison Publishing begin to fall prey to “accidents.”

Roland “Rolly” Gentry is a hardened private eye who thought he’d seen it all. But when a mysterious woman steps into his office and asks him to have a “talk” with her ex-husband, Rolly is tossed into a seedy world where not even his entire collection of self-help books and CDs can assist him: Suburbia. As he delves ever deeper into the darkest corners of homeowners’ association politics, he faces a threat not only to the façade of stabilty society presents, but to the inner wisdom within his own secret soul.

Up-and-coming politico Robert Soxer is making a last-minute campaign appearance at a small kitchen and bath remodeling shop. The shop’s owner, Leon, is an ardent supporter, and takes Soxer and his entourage on a quick tour. Meanwhile, shop worker Rachael, despondent over her recent breakup with coworker Rick, makes a startling discovery — the candidate is far from what he appears to be, giving new meaning to the term “political machine.” As the group leaves, Rachael tries to convince Rick of what she’s seen, but he misinterprets her warnings. Will Rachael be able to stop Soxer’s ascent to power and redeem herself in Rick’s eyes?

Making a good first impression at a job interview is critical, as Mary well knows. But from the start, fate seems to be working against her. She oversleeps, and has to scramble to get ready. She can’t find a taxi, and has to walk from her hotel to the office. She can’t get into an overly crowded elevator, and has to take the stairs. But despite the setbacks, she manages to make it to the office on time, only to discover that — before she can utter a single syllable — the atmosphere is quite contrary to what one would normally expect. And that atmosphere becomes more bizarre with each passing moment.