Michael Viner, publisher and friend of True Crime, passes.

Michael Viner, President and CEO of Beverly Hills-based Phoenix Books Inc., a leading independent book and audio publisher known for its provocative ripped-from-the-headlines bestsellers, has passed away. Most recently Phoenix released the hit  Catastrophe: The Story of Bernard L. Madoff , the first book on the case to hit the shelves. Phoenix has ongoing relationships with Larry King, Bill Maher, Gene Simmons, Carl Reiner and a host of other celebrities. The recipient of numerous Grammy, Audie and Parent's Choice Awards, Mr. Viner is widely credited with revolutionizing and reinventing the audiobook industry as the co-founder of Dove Audio.  He also published books by our friend Matthew Randazzo V, our good friend and guest on True Crimes.