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Prick

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People are dying under mysterious circumstances in the small town of New Haven. And the city’s best hope of uncovering the truth rests with a troubled teen and the girl who can't stand him.

Cassie Underwood’s life is shattered when her younger sister dies in a freak car accident. In her grief, Cassie unfairly blames her sister’s constant companion—Taggart McGill—a boy with a sketchy past and abrasive personality. As Cassie attempts to recover from the loss, she struggles to honor her late-sister’s memory by befriending the person she resents most.

Things get complicated when Cassie overhears a fellow student asking Taggart to convince the police another death in the accident had nothing to do with the crash at all. Taggart surprisingly agrees and a suspicious Cassie decides to accompany him in his snooping. She soon learns everything she knows about Taggart is wrong… and he has insight into things that link the car accident to other suspicious deaths in their close-knit community.

Is Taggart McGill the "prick" everyone says he is, or will uncovering his secrets be the key that keeps Cassie's name off the mounting list of victims?

339 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 12, 2023

13 people are currently reading
255 people want to read

About the author

D.L. Hammons

5 books207 followers
DL Hammons wrote his first piece of fiction decades ago to impress a girl (he was moderately successful) and never looked back.

Growing up as a military brat, DL moved around quite a bit as a kid. After graduating from LSU and raising a family in several southern states, he now makes his home in Central Arkansas, where he has spent the last dozen years perfecting his voice, splitting his writing time between YA and Adult Mystery/Suspense. Besides being an author, DL claims that the most interesting thing about him is that he lacks a sense of smell. Other passions include (but are not limited to) his family (including his two mini-Australian Sheppards), music, movies, video gaming, and cool weather camping.

MOVING FEAR - his YA Supernatural Horror debut is due out early 2026.

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5 stars
66 (61%)
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31 (28%)
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10 (9%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
Profile Image for Marie Wikle.
376 reviews9 followers
December 19, 2023
This was my first book by this author but it will not be the last!! I loved this book and how the Author reminded us that assuming what we know isn’t always the truth. The mystery… the friendships… the truth we learn about Taggart McGill flows so very well!! I’m so glad there is more coming in 2024
Profile Image for LaceyBanana Reads.
530 reviews26 followers
July 19, 2025
Cassie’s sister dies in a freak accident that opens up a ton of circumstances and relationships that she thought would never happen. At the center of it all is a troubled teen, Taggart, who is set on finding out andwers.

This book started out super intense, opened up to a ton of endearing characters, and had a unique and interesting plot! The pacing was great and I couldn’t wait to find out what happened. I need to get to book two and continue Taggart’s story!
Profile Image for Sabrina.
694 reviews17 followers
December 5, 2023
Thank you to BookSirens and D.L. Hammons for the eARC of PRICK.

After the death of her sister, Cassie Underwood's life is a mess. Joining forces with Taggart McGill, and the rest of their tag team of misfits, they aim to seek out the truth about what happened. Was it a freak accident or was there something more sinister surrounding the town of New Haven, Georgia?

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Getting into the book was a bit slow for me, I was pretty confused on how the prologue fit into the rest of the book until much later. But seeing how everything connected, made it really enjoyable. I could not put the book down for the last 40%. I had some theories about what was going to happen in the book, but was pleasantly surprised by the plot twist! None of my theories were correct lol.

Hammons writing style throughout the book was extremely poetic and really helped bring us along on the journey as Cassie worked to find herself after losing Becca. The growth, found family, and general coming-of-age that Cassie experiences, alongside the rest of the gang, was so wholesome to read.

The epilogue left a little bit of a cliffhanger and a teaser for potential future books, so I'll definitely be reading more! Hopefully we'll get something from Taggart's POV?? **fingers crossed!**

It was giving AGGGTM, but I liked the different angles that it did take.
Profile Image for Jennifer Williams.
270 reviews6 followers
December 8, 2023
What a brilliant book this is!!! When you grow up with a lie for a life you can end up bounced around a bit in the system. You feel like an outcast and have no desire to change peoples opinions of you. A series of unfortunate and unexpected deaths bring together a group of teenagers that otherwise wouldn’t be caught together. They team up to do the digging required to try and piece together what’s really going on in this small town. The biggest problem is that the digging could get them all killed! No one would even know what they were trying to do if that happened. This book is well written. It’s a gripping suspense page to page. Once you start it you will not want to stop it. Don’t say I didn’t warn you! You get sucked in and feel like part of the group and you too want to know what’s really going on here?!? This would have been a one sitting book for me but I had started it before work. I told myself you are not to touch this again until your day off! Day off book done! I want to say thank you to Booksirens for giving me the chance to review this copy early! In exchange for my honest opinion on this book.
Profile Image for  Jody - Wicked Dark Reads.
1,094 reviews259 followers
November 22, 2023
I loved reading “Prick”! It’s such a thrilling and suspenseful mystery that kept me glued to the pages. The small-town setting of New Haven was so fascinating, with all its secrets waiting to be uncovered.

The author’s writing was superb, as he masterfully woven the story together and created well-rounded characters that I couldn’t help but fall in love with. Watching the plot unfold and the characters’ true selves revealed was a fantastic experience, and I was completely hooked from start to finish.

I highly recommend “Prick” to anyone looking for a captivating and engaging read!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Jennifer Adler.
245 reviews3 followers
January 17, 2024
This book was very well written! I loved the characters and the “Scooby Gang” so much! Each one of them were so endearing. I did NOT see the twist coming and was absolutely floored! Wow, that ending... I cannot wait for more of this story in the second book. I will definitely be reading more by this author. Found him on TikTok, enjoyed his content and I am beyond grateful I gave this book a chance. The story was great and grilling. It kept me engaged from start to finish. One of my favorite indie author reads to date.
Profile Image for Amy.
228 reviews14 followers
February 6, 2024
Can five teenagers solve a murder mystery in their small town? I really enjoyed Prick! It starts out with some great “What?!” moments! Then the twists and turns were great!
Profile Image for Eclectic Review.
1,682 reviews5 followers
December 9, 2023
This book would make an excellent mystery movie where a group of high school acquaintances search for a serial killer in their small town of New Haven.

The story is told in first person from Cassie Underwood's point of view. Cassie has lost her sister in a train accident that turns out to be more complicated which leads Cassie and friends down a rabbit hole of murder and mayhem.

Cassie's loss has her looking differently at her life and decides to learn more about the boy her sister loved and believed in when no one else would. She envies the relationship that Becca and Taggert had, a relationship that seemed to come naturally to them. When she finally sees Taggert like her sister did, she realizes that Taggert's trust is important to her.

Taggert is a complex individual who prefers solitude over social interaction. His aversion to others starts as a boy when he is orphaned and put in the system. Despite this, Taggert has a unique perspective on life that is both captivating and mature. Beneath layers of distrust and isolation is a boy who is kind and sweet.

In her quest to understand Taggert, Cassie gets involved in solving a string of murders with her new quirky and awkward band of friends. Taggert's detective skills are exceptional as the group gets closer to solving their case, but danger is right around the corner and what they find out is a shocker.

The supporting characters add depth to the story. As humans, we all crave a connection with someone who understands us and accepts us for who we are and each character brings something to the table.

PRICK is an exceptional debut novel that I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys suspenseful young adult mysteries with a little humor and a hint of romance. Hammons' writing is superb as he not only keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, but also touches upon important subjects for young adults such as loss, bullying, and ADHD.  If you're looking for a book that will hold your attention until the very last page, then this is the book for you. I can't wait to read more in this series.

Thank you to Mr. Hammons for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Profile Image for Persephone Knight.
27 reviews
December 10, 2023
"Prick" by DL Hammons is an exceptional debut novel that seamlessly blends suspense, humor, and a hint of romance. The narrative unfolds through Cassie Underwood's first-person perspective, drawing readers into a gripping tale of mystery and mayhem in the small town of New Haven.

The exploration of loss, bullying, and ADHD adds depth to the storyline, making it not only a thrilling mystery but also a resonant read for young adults. Hammons skillfully crafts a diverse set of characters, each contributing a unique element to the narrative. Cassie's journey to understand Taggert, a complex and enigmatic figure, forms the core of the plot, with the supporting cast bringing their own quirks and dynamics to the table.

The book's cinematic potential is evident as the group of high school acquaintances embarks on a quest to solve a string of murders. The suspense builds with Taggert's exceptional detective skills leading them closer to the truth, while danger lurks around every corner. The revelation that unfolds is nothing short of a shocker, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

Hammons' writing is superb, maintaining a perfect balance between keeping the reader engaged and addressing important themes. The seamless integration of humor and romance adds a delightful layer to the narrative. The novel's exploration of human connections and acceptance resonates, making it a compelling read beyond its mystery elements.

In conclusion, "Prick" is a must-read for those who enjoy suspenseful young adult mysteries. DL Hammons has delivered a captivating debut that promises an exciting series to follow. I eagerly anticipate more from this talented author.
Profile Image for Sara Demler.
150 reviews4 followers
June 22, 2025
Wow I loved all the twists throughout, especially towards the end! I kept coming up with so many theories, majority of them wrong 😅 I had a lot of fun reading this book, highly recommend.
Profile Image for Gena Parker.
11 reviews
December 15, 2023
I really enjoyed reading “Prick”. The twists and turns really had me rooting for this group. From the prologue all the way until the end, I couldn’t wait to see where they were going next. Also added bonus for a shout out to my home Tempe AZ. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Profile Image for Jessica Wilson.
1 review1 follower
January 24, 2024
I REALLY enjoyed this book! I am a psychological thriller fan and was excited and surprised by this book. I also feel like it is appropriate for my 16yo daughter to read! I can’t wait for the next book to be released!!
Profile Image for Tina Marie.
80 reviews3 followers
November 5, 2023
"Logic is the beginning of wisdom, not the end.”

***takes deep breath***

📣 Spoiler alert: Don't hesitate!! Pre-order/order this book! It's a "sprint~ don't run, don't walk, just go!! Now!!

🧐 ummm, if you're continuing to read my review, I expect that you read his book!! If not, return to the top!

🎁 OK, welcome to my review that can never come close to doing this book justice! I am going to try! I was gifted this copy of "Prick" by Don Hammons ~ who has patiently stuck with me through my persistent messages regarding this book of his! So, THANK YOU!!! I can't thank you enough!!!

🎯I've never understood how someone can chuck a book (or phone) across a room...but when you leave the first emotional blow, letting time for the reader to level out, only to repeat what feels like a "million little pricks", right up to the very end; it broke me! I could only scream, sigh, squeal, and set down my phone to avoid throwing it!

🕵‍♀️ This book took me about 2 actual days to read- mainly because I didn't want it to end as I reached chapter 30... I was creeped out by how many parallels this book had to my own life (but Don seems harmless.. I hope) 🤞

🎿I spent time deeply feeling the emotions of cliques, pettiness, rumors, loss, fear, mistrust, illness, isolation, and connection...where learning the quarks of those around you can be life saving!

🤝 To use each person's skills and build a bond that grows through pain while holding awareness to those needing just one person in their corner! It cuts deep in the most necessary ways! To tie it up while acknowledging forced vulnerabilities, only to break through awkward silences... there's more preferred ways to "break the ice," yet the gang continues to overcome!

🫂 The emotional hangover from this book will last a while. I will be lining up for a signed copy as soon as it's an option! Truly, the art to this story, this group of friends, the trauma endured...and in the end, I hope everyone has a person holding their own "golden ticket" 🎫

💉Don gets a standing emotional ovation!! The art of his writing I hope becomes appreciated for all of his books to come! Don brings things from the very start of the book and sprinkles them in throughout other key moments for comedic relief and connection! It's truly beautiful, and I hope everyone can actually see and appreciate that in his writing.

🪵 Let's see how well you pay attention.. or if you'll prove to have as much common sense as a fence post!

🩶 My heart broke, was picked back up, chipped away at, and then left in shock at the end of this book! Someone needs to bring the antidote for this one!

📣 I love Taggart McGill!! And I "like" Don.. but the emotional damage will take some time to come back from 😏
Profile Image for J Kromrie.
2,497 reviews48 followers
December 16, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.

What an awesome mystery, with wonderfully diverse character and plot development, I loved it, an easy 5:stars for this amazingly enjoyable read!
392 reviews41 followers
November 4, 2023
"Prick" is an exhilarating suspenseful mystery. I enjoyed the setting in a small town New Haven that holds secrets. A series of murders happen in this idyllic town. The authors writing is superb. He slowly unravels the plot and well developed characters divulging their deceptions as he ramps up the intensity of thid complex investigation. The book held my attention to the very last page.
Profile Image for Hijabi_booklover.
583 reviews12 followers
May 30, 2025
when I tell you that D.L. Is the king of TWISTS!!! Man I didn’t guess anything in this book. I take pride in getting all of the details and having at least an idea of whodunit. But Mr. Hammons has done it again and don’t even get me started on that ending. Like SIR!!!!! Perfect definition of MIC DROP!!! Everyone go read this book I’m on my way to purchase the second one now.
Profile Image for Katie Holder.
733 reviews22 followers
January 29, 2024
If Nancy Drew, A Good Girl's Guide to Murder and Scooby Doo had a baby it would be Prick.

D.L Hammons deliver's this action packed, character driven mystery novel with fluidity and suspense.

As a child of the 80's and 90's I enjoyed this YA book because the characters reminded me of some of my favorite books and shows from when I was a child/preteen. Although uniquely different they still gave me that nostalgic feeling.

Strong character development, unlikely friendships, gut twisting suspense and the need to know "who done it" are just a few of the reason's this book kept me engaged.

Not only was the plot on point, but the delivery and execution were superb. The ending left me wanting more, so I am extremely excited to read the second book in the series Jerk.

I highly recommend giving this book a chance if you like a good mystery/suspense.


Profile Image for Valerie.
348 reviews21 followers
December 29, 2023
4.5 stars.
We follow the lives of four teens, 3 of whom have lost a family member tragically. The dynamics within this group are a big part of the story. The book really draws you in and I enjoyed the pace.
For following along with a group of teenagers this story is really layered. You see the teenager in them and then you see how fast they've had to mature to get to the level of secrecy and investigating terrible things they get to. Cassie Underwood, for the most part is the center, though we do see Taggart McGill take that role too. The mystery behind the victim choice is intriguing as you are always wondering what the connections are. To realize 12 years of murders have gone unnoticed is a sad thought.
A pattern Taggart uncovers helps them with the means of the murders but now to figure out the why.
I really did enjoy the book and the twists. I was surprised by them and found myself going down the wrong path of suspicion too. Will look forward to possible sequels. Probable sequels? Plus will check out more of DL Hammons books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Profile Image for Harriet Ashford.
Author 3 books98 followers
February 8, 2024
I enjoyed the heck out of this book. Taggart is mysterious, kind, intelligent, shy, misunderstood, and also looks like Ian Somerhalder (that description made me chuckle 😃). I honestly don't think you can make a character anymore likable.
My absolute favorite thing about the book was the ragtag, unlikely group of friends who come together to solve the mysterious deaths in their town. They are in way over their heads, and I'm here for it.
Definitely give this book a try if you are looking for a fast-paced mystery with characters who are so incredibly, beautifully human.
Profile Image for Stefanie Gutierrez.
18 reviews1 follower
August 9, 2025
When you live in a quaint little town like New Haven you expect “normal” “uneventful” “boring” because that’s the standard for a small town with little to no crime rate. But when an increased amount of unalivings begin to form a pattern you’d expect the police to do something about it right? WRONG! Here is where D.L. Hammons continues to deceive readers in this intriguing and mystery packed thriller about a group of unlikely misfit detectives in search of the truth. Five strangers, dozens of clues, countless amounts of lies and deception from the people you least expect. This book is both suspenseful and jam packed with questions. You can’t help but fall in love with the members of the Scooby Gang as you follow them on their wild goose chase in order to find out “Who did it?” This book was absolutely amazing and for a writer that claims not to write romance, the very small romantic subplot brought out one of my now favorite quotes at the end of the book. Not only did he deliver a swoon worthy line at the end, but the epilogue? True to his reputation, that cliffhanger— I’m sorry “breadcrumbs” for the next book were the perfect way to get readers hooked. While you’re reading this, I’ll be diving into book 2!
Profile Image for Jolene.
262 reviews23 followers
January 3, 2024
First book by this author and won’t be my last. I definitely look forward to reading more about Taggart who I now have a soft spot for in my heart.


“Our generation has perfected the skill of character assassination under the guise of playful humor. We’ve evolved from driving a single dagger in the back to using hundreds of tiny pricks, innocently delivered via text messaging,or other social media, but the effect is just as devastating. That kind of bombardment, overtime, can overwhelm even the sturdiest of adults. But this is happening to teenagers. I believe the damage done has become the most undiagnosed mental crisis amongst people our age”.- Taggart
Profile Image for Shilo.
711 reviews
January 11, 2024
I received this book from BookSirens; to be honest, I requested it because I liked the title. I love the double meaning so so much.

I didn't realize it was young adult, which I usually don't care for, but I actually really enjoyed this! The mystery kept me on the edge of my seat, I really liked all of the characters, and the conclusion to the mystery genuinely surprised me.

I enjoyed the ending, but the very last sentence made my jaw physically drop.
Profile Image for Morgan Miller.
69 reviews
July 6, 2025
Another 5 stars for DL Hammons. I am not one to enjoy young adult books normally because I feel like I can’t relate to them. This book was entirely different. This felt adolescent, but with the trauma the kids were dealing with, it made it feel much more of an adult thriller. If you’re in a reading slump, pick this one up. You’ll be hooked from the beginning. The character development of so many characters was fantastic! I loved it from beginning to end! Now I need to read the next one.
Profile Image for Victoria.
665 reviews20 followers
January 10, 2024
I really enjoyed this! It's well written and is unique. I like how it kept me guessing and how it moves at a perfect pace. I would recommend this! Special Thank You to D.L. Hammons and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Winnie Pagora.
Author 2 books97 followers
June 23, 2024
Suspenseful... It will keep you guessing until the end...

I enjoyed reading this book. It kept me guessing all the way until the end. I also liked all the characters. However, I felt the ending was too rushed.

I definitely plan to read the subsequent books in this series.
Profile Image for Amber Nystrom.
18 reviews
July 6, 2025
Another AMAZING book by D.L. Hammons! This book had me from the beginning! It’s such a great read and those plot twists got me! I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a good mystery thriller! Only thing is that you better have the next book ready, because that ending will have your jaw dropping!
Profile Image for Karen.
142 reviews
August 27, 2025
WOW! This is my second book down the DL Hammons rabbit hole and I am not even a little bit sorry. His writing is capturing and his stories keep me turning the page and thanking about the books long have I have set them down. It is time to move on to the next book by this author!
Profile Image for Ashley.
18 reviews1 follower
June 15, 2025
Shockingly impressive expression of talent! This mystery had my jaw dropping and my mind reeling in shock.
Profile Image for Mandy.
399 reviews22 followers
January 28, 2024
This book ROCKS!!! The author's impeccable writing skill effortlessly weaves a mesmerizing tale, introducing well-rounded characters that captivate the heart.
I wholeheartedly recommend "Prick" to those seeking a fascinating and engaging read!
Profile Image for Jemi Fraser.
Author 35 books76 followers
January 13, 2024
Fantastic!
Taggert is a fascinating character - and seeing him through Cassie's eyes reveals a lot about them both. The plot twists in unexpected ways and had my heart bouncing! An excellent read full of emotion and I'm looking forward to more!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews

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