The Fortunate Fall by Raphael Carter

In 23rd-century Russia, where the 'Net' is at once a source of freedom and a means of control, Maya Andreyeva is the perfect reporter. The chips hardwired into her brain allow her to detail not only what she sees but what she hears, tastes, smells, and feels, all in resonant virtual reality. When clues turn up pointing to a massacre and a cover-up, Maya, the ultimate journalist, is compelled find the truth. Along the way she discovers answers not only to the puzzle she has set out to solve, but to secrets about her own life. At the same time, author Raphael Carter provides a compelling and chilling story that also raises serious questions about such issues as homophobia and censorship.