Homecoming Queen

by Chad Boudreaux

NO ONE EVER LEAVES MIRANDA TWICE

Anika Raven faces the challenge of a lifetime. She must rescue her little sister from a neglectful family as the hurricane of a century barrels toward her hometown of Miranda, Texas. Time is of the essence, but the deadly storm is not her biggest problem.

Once Miranda High School’s beloved homecoming queen, Anika now possesses a dark secret that must remain hidden. Unable to outrun the shadows of her past, and terrified to confront the demons of her future, she finds herself running from the law.
Concealing a dark secret of its own, the town of Miranda’s corruption permeates every aspect of society. Each time Anika catches a break, a scheming mayor and powerful political forces deliver her another life-threatening setback.

With the storm looming, and tensions in town escalating, Anika and her sister are trapped. To escape town, they will need unspeakable courage, perseverance, and the help of a special gift possessed by Anika’s little sister. But all bets are off as adversity abounds. To stay alive, they must overcome a jealous town, rabid adversaries bent on vigilante justice, and a monster hurricane . . . all coming at them with a vengeance.

Genres: Contemporary, Drama, Novels, Book Club, Thriller, Fiction, Mystery Thriller

344 pages, Paperback

Published August 6, 2024

About the author

Chad Boudreaux is a Washington insider hired by the U.S. Department of Justice the night before the September 11, 2001 attacks—launching him immediately into counterterrorism work that earned him high accolades at an early age. His success in the Justice Department carried him to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, where his role as Deputy Chief of Staff allowed him to work directly on significant policy, operational, and legal issues facing the Department. He currently is the chief legal officer of a publicly traded, Fortune 300 company and America’s largest military shipbuilder. Boudreaux leverages his unique, high-level experience in global security matters and his extensive legal expertise to craft breathtaking, insider stories of mystery and intrigue that are ripped from today’s headlines and are sure to shock his readers.

Reviews

[Teju A · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where or how do I start with this?
I think I have to read this again, and I'll be honest maybe a lot slower too!
It's the sort of book with tons of symbolism; that went very over my head.
I've never read a book like this, I liked the fact that I didn't know or could guess what was coming next, but at the same time it left me scratching my head a lot more times than i can count.

Our home coming queen returns to save her little sister from an absent mother and negligent father. Plus a storm is coming and the town has its way of keeping its traditions....which means there are consequences with actions and lets just say sometimes the boogeyman isn't who we always think they turn out to be....The gifted will have to be seperated from the cursed!

Thanks to Morgan James Fiction and Netgalley for this ARC. Humbled and grateful 🙏🏾
Homecoming queen out Aug 6th!!!!!!!

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded to 4 stars
Miranda TX is expecting a major hurricane. Anika has returned after serving 5 years in prison for killing her boyfriend Johnny Delgado. When she returns, she takes her younger half-sister, Sam, from Sam's father. Later he is found dead, and Anika accused of his murder. But, someone else admits to her that they killed him, and now she is indebted to him and the mayor. Sam has special powers.
This book has a bit of everything - dark magic, religious fervor, drugs, alcoholism, supernatural, guns, conspiracy, and an impending storm.
A tale of good vs. evil.

[Ray · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting read. It is described as a political thriller, and I didn't know what I was expecting with the 'political' part. However, it did not disappoint. It discusses how the town residents behave and interact with the law, especially when it comes to hurricanes.

It starts with Annika coming back to her hometown to save her sister. As she navigates through the town, fielding questions about her past and present, the tension mounts. The residents ask what she has been up to, and she claims that she has studied law and is currently engaged. Annika keeps telling people that she left her fiance, so she can't afford to waste any time. She needs to get her sister out. Unfortunately for her, she is made to wait.

Now, without spoiling the contents, I'll try to continue reviewing the book. Every single character you meet in the book has some sort of story. While I wished for stronger character development overall, the focus on key individuals kept me engaged. The mayor, in particular, kept me perplexed.

Throughout the book, a series of events unfold death, riots, protests, "cubes," and ominous discussions about an impending hurricane. These elements create a gripping tale that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

[Bharath · Rating 2 out of 5]

This started off as an interesting story, but lost its way further down.

The story starts with interviews being conducted by FBI Special agent Brian Maxwell in Miranda city. Johnny Delgado died in a car with explosives, and it is believed to be a suicide.

5 years later, in the present, Anika Raven who has just come into town confronts her drunk step-dad Scotty. She is trying her best to get her sister Samantha, who is 8 years old, away from him. She manages to take her out, though her step-dad warns her that she needs to be back the next day. Anika meets Ethan at the local store, she had previously dated his brother who is now married. He offers that she and her sister can stay at his place for some time till Anika can sort things out. There are many secrets Anika has which she hopes no one will know about. The local police come seeking her. Anika meets Mayor Auntie Dodd asking for her help and realizes that the Mayor knows a lot about her. A murder happens soon after, and Anika has to be strong to face the many challenges in front of her.

This was a story which started off well, with a touch of intrigue about Anika’s character and what has happened prior. The plot and the writing were inconsistent and felt amateurish, and I struggled to stay engaged. I found the characters poorly developed. This is a story where a dual timeline is needless and distracting.

Overall, a disappointment.

Thanks to Netgalley, Morgan James fiction and the author for a free electronic review copy.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer]

In the book Homecoming Queen by Chad Boudreaux we meet Annika Raven she is returning to her hometown of Miranda Texas her eight-year-old sister Samantha has been texting her and Annika is worried about her well-being. Annika knows her mom and stepdad Scott do not physically abuse Sam but she definitely suffers from neglect. In her sisters room the windows have been boarded up the walls have been painted black and she sees Sam has drawn a bunch of squares all over her room. Getting her sister safe was just the first step now she hast to find out how to keep her. When she calls CPS they are no help at all. She knows if she’s going to deal with the government that she needs to go to the head dog in town and that is anti-Dodd the mayor. The preacher tells Annika there is something special about Samantha and be warned the mayor will definitely take an interest and that first Annika blows him off. After her first meeting with auntie Dodd Annika knows she isn’t dealing with your normal every day small town mayor but something much more sinister and wants nothing to do with it. Deciding her only option is to kill her stepdad she goes to her childhood home but it seems someone has beat her to the punch or the murder rather. Things only get worse when before she can leave the police show up and find her with gloves on a 14 inch Bowie knife and murder on her mind. The next day when she meets with the mayor she finds out things that amaze her the next thing she knows she has no other choice but to accept the mayors ultimatum to work for her or to go to prison forever. If this was Annika’s only problem that would’ve been enough but she also has to deal with her own secrets the strange death of her high school boyfriend her secret longing to be with her childhood best friend Logan and now her sister may have special psychic abilities… It was only supposed to be a weekend visit now it looks like Annika is staying. Annika new Miranda Texas was different from other places but working for the mayor she will learn just how different it is and she will find out answers to questions she didn’t know she should be asking. If you got to this point just know… That I know this is a long review but I haven’t even given half the story there is so much more to this grade book with magical realism and a great plot the story was way better than I thought it was going to be. This is a definite five star read in a book that is definitely full of twists turns and great entertainment. Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.

[McKenzie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a political thriller full of drama involving the tale of good vs. evil. It has dark magic, the supernatural, murder, deception, conspiracy, political unrest, a looming storm and more.

A very unique plot with quite a bit of storylines. I was perplexed throughout and was unsure what to expect- definitely a wild ride and you’ll find yourself rooting for Anika and Sam.

I loved the inclusion of the town map at the beginning of the book - really helped me visualize everything throughout the story as scenes change to different locations. I loved the descriptions of the small Texas town.

I was intrigued throughout to want to find out how it would all wrap up and am still pondering on all that transpired.

Grateful for this #gifted copy!🫶🏼

[George Laymark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Just, wow. I finished Homecoming Queen by Chad Boudreaux with a full heart and a tear in my eye. This is one of those books that will hit you like a ton of bricks, and then you’ll sit there for hours afterward, reflecting on the themes, the characters, and the deeply personal questions it raises. Chad Boudreaux has created something truly special in this story, and I am absolutely in awe of how he’s managed to weave together a coming-of-age tale that’s both brutally honest and profoundly moving.

The Plot: A Raw and Authentic Exploration of Teenage Life and Personal Struggles

The story follows an unlikely protagonist, a high school senior navigating the complexities of life, love, and identity in their final year before graduation. It’s not a typical high school romance or a predictable coming-of-age narrative. Instead, Homecoming Queen digs deeper, uncovering the real emotional struggles that so many of us face at that age: trying to figure out who you really are, dealing with pressures from all sides, and questioning the meaning of success and happiness.

What Boudreaux does so beautifully here is take an often-overlooked moment in life—the homecoming game and all that it represents—and turn it into something profound. At the center of the story is a journey of self-discovery, and Boudreaux captures it all with incredible nuance. You can feel the weight of the decisions these characters make, and it’s impossible not to get emotionally swept up in their personal quests.

But this isn’t just a book about high school—it's about relationships, identity, and the realization that sometimes we need to let go of the expectations others place on us in order to truly be free. And that, my friends, is where Homecoming Queen really finds its heart.

The Characters: So Real, So Relatable—You’ll See Yourself in Them

Where this book truly shines is in its characters. I could feel every moment of the protagonist’s internal conflict, and honestly, I’ve rarely seen a character portrayed so authentically. You know those characters that feel like real people, not just fictional constructs? That’s what Boudreaux nails here. From the protagonist's vulnerability to their moments of quiet strength, I could not stop rooting for them, even when they made mistakes.

But it’s not just the main character that I connected with—it’s the whole ensemble cast. From friends to family members to love interests, Boudreaux has created a group of people who feel deeply human. They are flawed, they are messy, and they are incredibly real. I loved how each character’s storyline intersects with the protagonist’s journey. Whether it’s through friendship, betrayal, or unexpected moments of support, the people in this story shape and challenge the protagonist’s growth in such powerful ways.

The way Boudreaux explores relationships—especially friendships—is one of my favorite parts of the book. He captures the complexities of human connection, from the comforting familiarity of old friends to the painful realization that people grow apart. I was truly moved by the emotional depth in every relationship.

The Writing: Emotional, Raw, and Beautifully Expressive

Chad Boudreaux’s writing is something else entirely. The emotional resonance in his prose is unbelievable. There’s something about the way he describes the protagonist’s inner turmoil that had me nodding in recognition and feeling the weight of each word. This book doesn’t just tell a story—it feels like an emotional experience. Boudreaux’s writing feels intimate, personal, and raw. It’s like he’s opening his heart to the reader and inviting us to share in the protagonist’s most vulnerable moments.

What struck me the most was the way Boudreaux used small moments—like a glance, a touch, or a quiet exchange between characters—to convey huge emotional shifts. It’s that kind of writing that makes the book feel alive, and it’s impossible not to feel like you’re living through each page. Every sentence feels like it was carefully crafted to evoke a real emotion, and Boudreaux’s ability to balance that emotional depth with sharp, realistic dialogue is a true testament to his talent as a writer.

The Themes: Powerful, Honest, and Universally Resonant

One of the things I love most about Homecoming Queen is how it tackles themes that are universal but also deeply personal. It’s a book about figuring out who you are, letting go of the past, and moving toward an uncertain future. But it’s also about the pressures we face to fit into boxes—whether it’s as the homecoming queen, the athlete, the outcast, or the “perfect” student. And Boudreaux is fearless in exploring how those societal expectations can crush us, or how breaking free from them can be the most freeing thing of all.

The novel also touches on family dynamics in such a real way. The way we grow up, the things we’re taught, and how those lessons shape who we become—it’s all in here. There’s a deeply emotional arc that explores family relationships, especially with parents, and I found myself completely moved by the way these connections evolved throughout the story.

But the heart of Homecoming Queen is the journey to self-acceptance. It’s a story about breaking free from the suffocating grip of expectations and learning to embrace who we are, even when we don’t quite have it all figured out. And I can’t tell you how important that message is.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you’re looking for a book that will make you feel every emotion under the sun—joy, sadness, excitement, frustration, and ultimately, hope—then Homecoming Queen is the book for you. It’s more than just a story about high school—it’s a story about life, about learning to navigate the pressure of fitting in, and about the growing pains that come with shedding the versions of ourselves that others want us to be.

This book is raw, it’s honest, and it will resonate with you long after you’ve finished it. It’s one of those books that reminds you that growth isn’t linear, and that embracing who you are—even when it feels hard—is the only way to truly live.

Chad Boudreaux has written something special here. It’s a book that captures the bittersweetness of adolescence, the heartache of growing up, and the joy of finding your way—no matter how messy or imperfect that journey may be. If you haven’t read Homecoming Queen yet, don’t wait any longer. This book will stay with you.

Final Thoughts

In short, Homecoming Queen is a triumph. It’s a moving, heartfelt, and beautifully written book that will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between. Chad Boudreaux has created a masterpiece of emotional storytelling, and I can’t recommend it enough. This book isn’t just a read—it’s an experience, one that you won’t soon forget.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Homecoming Queen by Chad Boudreaux is a gripping political thriller set in the small, turbulent town of Miranda, Texas. The story centers on Anika Raven, a determined woman who returns to her hometown to rescue her younger sister from a neglectful and dangerous home environment. Along the way, Anika uncovers dark secrets about the town, its people, and herself, all while navigating a landscape fraught with political corruption, personal vendettas, and a brewing natural disaster.

Boudreaux's writing is compelling and immersive, capturing the essence of small-town life with a flair for suspense and drama. The prologue sets the tone with an eerie interview, hinting at the town's sinister undercurrents. The characters are well-developed, each with their own flaws and motivations, making them feel real and relatable. Anika's fierce determination and vulnerability make her a protagonist you can root for, even as she grapples with her own demons. One of the standout elements of the book is its vivid depiction of Miranda. The town itself feels like a character, with its rich history, unique culture, and a palpable sense of foreboding. The interplay between the town's past and present adds depth to the narrative, making the reader feel as though they are uncovering the town's secrets alongside Anika. Boudreaux's attention to detail, from the dilapidated homes of the Lower West Side to the opulent residences of the Upper East Side, paints a vivid picture of a community on the brink. Scotty Mathis, the antagonist, effectively drives the plot forward with his clear-cut villainy, keeping the story engaging and fast-paced. Anika's journey is one of self-discovery as much as it is about saving her sister. The book raises important questions about the lengths one will go to protect loved ones and the sacrifices that come with it. Boudreaux masterfully weaves these themes into a fast-paced plot that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

Homecoming Queen is a compelling read for fans of political thrillers and small-town dramas. Chad Boudreaux delivers a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with well-crafted characters and a richly detailed setting. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy a mix of suspense, action, and emotional depth. Whether you're looking for a thrilling page-turner or a story that delves into the complexities of human relationships, this is a novel that will not disappoint.

[Novels Alive · Rating 4 out of 5]

How far would you go to rescue your little sister? For Anika Raven, it means taking on the temporary role of mayor of her hometown and prepping for what promises to be a destructive hurricane.

Author Chad Boudreaux sets up the storyline focused on a small Texas town named Miranda in Homecoming Queen. As the story opens, there is a teaser about the tragic death of Anika’s high school boyfriend that provides an excellent attention-getter.

That figures in later in the story, but the main plot centers around Anika’s efforts to remove her little sister from a household filled with drugs and alcohol—even if she has to confront her mother and stepfather in the process.

The thriller aspects shine as Anika navigates the political environment of her hometown. When an unexpected event requires Anika to step in as mayor, she has to figure out how to protect the town from the impending natural disaster. That proves to be more challenging since the community is divided.

Add a bit of the unusual with young Sam’s penchant for drawing three-dimensional cubes, which apparently indicates a gift of observation that allows her to predict events and a spiritual component is added to the plot.

That gift ties back to the town’s history with hurricanes. However, in spite of Anika’s determination to flee with her sister, leaving Miranda will force Anika to break the rules to escape.

Homecoming Queen delivers a storyline of twists and turns centering around a town with mystical roots. ~ Amy for Novels Alive

[V · Rating 3 out of 5]

As I’ve previously mentioned, I’m always on the lookout for authors from my home state. This title caught my eye and I hadn’t read Mr. Boudreaux before. It wasn’t exactly the political plot I’d expected, certainly representative of small town politics though. I didn’t anticipate the soothsayers, the supernatural, the crazy Pastor, the evil and manipulative Mayor, the ‘gifted’ characters or the clique of old-timers on the porch. The characters are some of the most distinct and indicative of rural small towns I’ve read in awhile. It’s set on the Gulf Coast in an area prone to sixty year hurricanes.
Anika’s young sister, Samantha, is in trouble, needs help. Anika hasn’t been back to the town that holds nothing but bad memories, heartache, her drunken mother and worthless stepfather. Now the former homecoming queen’s going to be arrested for kidnapping Sam. It’s truly hard for me to categorize the story as it’s like nothing I’ve ever read before. There is teenage love, broken hearts, dark forces of evil, betrayal, murder, deception and political unrest, all set amid the forces of nature. This small Texan town won’t ever let you go, escaping isn’t an option. Be forewarned you may lose sleep getting to the heart of this plot.
Thanks to Morgan James Publishing for providing an Advance Reader Copy of "Homecoming Queen” by Chad Boudreaux, expected publication 08/06/2024, via NetGalley. These honest thoughts and opinions are mine given voluntarily without compensation.

[Amys Bookshelf Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chad Boudreaux writes a thrilling tale with Homecoming Queen

In Homecoming Queen, the reader is brought into the life of Anika Raven, and as she returns to her hometown, now grown. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. Enter the unsettling town of Miranda, a town set with secrets, and not just from Anika's dysfunctional family. The plot surrounds the determination of Anika to protect her sister. There is a tension you can feel from the words on the page between Anika and her stepfather. It's a captivating story that brings the reader in, and you just can't look away. This story is a grand suspenseful story. The story takes place back in time, and also present day, and there is a big storm brewing in both settings. History can't be rewritten, but its mistakes can be learned from. Both thrilling and alluring, all the way to the end. There is a big likeness between the character Curtis, and stepfather Scotty. What an engaging story. I liked the story, but sometimes, I was a bit confused, even though I knew the time frame, which setting it was intended for. Homecoming Queen is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.

[Teresa Brock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anika Raven is returning to her hometown of Miranda, Texas to take her sister, Sam, away from a terrible home life. Anika hasn’t been back to Miranda for 5 years. When she left, she was the reigning Homecoming Queen. She graduated as the valedictorian and was accepted to Rice for college. Then, her boyfriend died in a fiery crash. Anika had no intention of coming back to Miranda. When she comes back this time, she notices a ‘pull’ or a force and something has changed.
Sam doesn’t speak. She draws. She draws intricate shapes and cubes. Anika and Sam find refuge with Joshua, a preacher who has – let’s say – some weird rules and restrictions for Anika and Sam. Not only that but he warns them of Mayor Dodd, and he speaks, almost in code, about Sam’s ability. Her being a ‘soothsayer’ or conduit for spiritual forces. While this sounds, odd or even crazy, Joshua is steadfast in his beliefs.
Dark forces of evil, betrayal, murder, deception, spiritual warfare and political unrest, all set amid the forces of nature are woven into a story that is unlike anything I have ever read. As the story unfolds, you begin to wonder who will win. Who is in charge or Miranda? Why does it need to be fed? What do the drawings have to do with any of this? What does the future hold for Anika and Sam?

[Shelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Living in small towns my entire life, I know a thing or two about how dark and deep the secrets can be in a community that lives by its own code. Inside the pages of this book, you’ll quickly discover the depths of deceit and high-stakes situations that are underneath the facade the town portrays.

The FBI interrogation at the start of the book helps set the plot for Miranda – a town full of people ingrained in a certain line of beliefs, thinking, and tradition. Especially when it comes to the political side of things. If you understand small town drama and their deep roots to politics, then you’ll get the feel for how intertwined and “not by the book” things can actually go.

Annika’s return to Miranda begins with her swooping in to save and protect her little sister, Sam. The standard channels are absolutely zero help and she’s forced to take matters into her own hands. But that turns into her being suspected of murder. To avoid being pulled into that fold, she is forced into working for the mayor – character who will intrigue and infuriate you all in the same moment. Annika begins uncovering layers of Miranda that heighten every one of your senses.

The grit that Annika begins with and continues to grow upon is a story that I couldn’t put down. There are parts I did have to go back and re-read to fully capture all the details in the moment to make sense of things. But ultimately, I enjoyed how despite the insistence of Miranda’s people and their goals or obstacles, there was one thing that they couldn’t control — the hurricane on the way.

[Rajnish Kumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author did a fantastic job creating this captivating story. The author's meticulous attention to detail and in-depth research are evident in the intricate way in which young characters are drafted. The characters are unique, have distinguishing qualities, and yet have relatable qualities that contribute to the reader's deep emotional attachment to the plot. Anika and her sister, who reside in Miranda, Texas, are the focal points of the narrative. Anika is in charge of keeping her younger sister safe by shielding her from needless conflict in their family as well as from other sources. She has been pushed in the past; therefore, she is also attempting to keep her secret. She battles familial issues, political obstacles, and school drama and just strives to maintain a normal life. At many points in the story, I felt her pain and kind of connected with her.

It was a good read and kept me hooked till the end. Even if this is my first read by the author, I am looking forward to getting more of this kind.

[kathy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Anika Raven has come back to Miranda to save her 8 year old sister (Sam) from her abusive and neglectful father. Sam has endured a lot of trauma a that she is no longer speaking and she only draws cubes. While trying to escape the town, Anika learns about the inner workings of Miranda and the current mayor.

Will Anika be able to leave Miranda with her sister? Will her sister ever speak again?

I thought this book’s cover was so intriguing and I couldn’t wait to read this book. The first few chapters really pulled me into the story, but when I was reading more and more of the book, I just had no clue where everything was going. I felt like there were too many story lines and not a great explanation as to why it was so important. I also felt like there were a lot of characters with no much background to them and I didn’t find the characters interesting to keep my interest afloat.

This book wasn’t the right fit for me, but I am glad that I read it so that I learned more about what I am interested in and what I’m not.

[Lorna Enslin · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Homecoming Queen' by Chad Boudreaux is an impeccably written political thriller revealing a very different storyline from what the title suggests. This intriguing novel will ensure readers are invested from the beginning with a developing undercurrent of dark secrets and sinister twists and turns as the story progresses keeping you on a knife edge.

Annika Raven returns to her hometown of Miranda, Texas, following strange texts from her young sister, Samantha. Annika suspects foul play and neglect at the hands of their stepfather and vulnerable mother and realises her sister urgently requires her presence to ensure her safety.

On arrival, she realises she has to make an urgent call to CPS, who show complete disinterest and leave her fearful for her and Samantha's survival. With a hurricane fast approaching and the law on her trail, Annika braces herself for challenges she never expected.

Page-turning storytelling at its very best.

[Gorgose · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Homecoming Queen" by Chad Boudreaux introduces Annika Raven, who returns to Texas, worried about her neglected younger sister, Samantha. Unable to rely on CPS, she turns to the mayor, only to discover his sinister influence. When her plan to confront her stepdad is ruined by his murder, she's framed for the crime. Forced to work for the mayor to avoid prison, she uncovers the towns dark secrets, and her sister's psychic abilities. Just reading the plot I was captivated, it sounded so interesting, and as expected as soon as I started reading I was hooked. It is a story packed with mystery, politics, tension, love and magical realism. Chad Boudreaux made Annika into a realistic, dynamic main character that you really root for. Could not recommend this enough, especially as a cure for anyone in a reading slump.

[Grymm Gevierre · Rating 5 out of 5]

If there's one thing I'm all too familiar with, it's hurricanes. The backdrop for this crazy story felt familiar, and Boudreaux did a great job painting the picture. Miranda is a crazy town that does seem to feed on conflict and pain. I felt the rush, the urgency of needing to leave but feeling trapped, and how social tension builds as a storm draws near.

And then there's Anika, her desperation to save and keep Sam safe is something we can all feel. The relationships between all the characters are so real, it's hard not to feel connected to them. This relatability is what makes this book truly great.

One thing that stood out is the number of small, quotable lines throughout, some of which I'll probably use. The writing is tight, the editing solid, and the story is engaging. Boudreaux did a great job with this book.

[Chelsea (gofetchabook) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting one and was never quite what it seemed.

Anika is about as unreliable of a narrator as you can get. She returns home to rescue her little sister from her neglectful father, but it quickly evolves into a downward spial of corruption as Anika finds herself in a position of power. To top it all off, a storm worse than anyone has ever seen is brewing on the horizon.

It is a little bit of a political thriller, but also a little bit of a supernatural thriller. Throughout the whole book, I was thinking that this would have made a good series because there are so many moving pieces, and so much to Anika's background.

Overall, I am not one for the thrillers involving small town politics, and it lost my attention for a bit, but it picked it back up when things started to get spooky and cultish.

[Valery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Homecoming Queen: A Small Town Political Thriller by Chad Boudreaux is a bit of a surprise. From the title, you might be expecting something different. This book however is layered, filled with intrigue and an undercurrent of danger. Annika Raven returns to Miranda, Texas, concerned for her neglected sister, Samantha. With eerie details like boarded windows and strange drawings, Annika realizes she must protect Samantha from their sinister stepdad and the mayor's dangerous influence. As Annika navigates dark secrets, even her own, and political intrigue, she finds herself caught in a web of danger. Boudreaux's meticulous portrayal of teenage characters and the intricate storyline will capture your attention, making this debut novel an unforgettable read. Highly recommend.

[Angi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found this to be more of a drama with supernatural elements than a political thriller. It sounded really good and had me interested in the beginning but then it just got slow and unrealistic. I was almost going to not finish, but I did. I realize it’s fiction but a young woman returning to her small town after being in jail for 5 years and suddenly falling into a position of authority just didn’t seem believable. Also, random very uncommon words would pop up throughout the story which I found distracting. This one didn’t work for me, but I’m sure there will be readers who enjoy it.

Thank you to the author @ChadBoudreaux as well as to @MorganJamesFiction and @NetGalley for a free e-ARC. The opinions are mine alone and not biased in any way.

[Bailey Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Homecoming Queen: A Small Town Political Thriller is a shocking, suspenseful, captivating, mysterious, high-stakes, adventurous, and unpredictable story! This book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. When the prologue started out five years ago during an FBI interview, I knew the book was going to be good. The mystery was clear, but the many secrets that followed were jaw-dropping.

Anika's story is one of true grit. The lengths she will go to for her sister speaks to her character even while everyone else questions it. The hurricane really heightened the desperation of the story. There is so much to love about this thriller!

[Kim Wilch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in Texas with a massive hurricane coming their way, tension builds as our main character runs from the law while protecting her young sister. This tension drove the story (and my heartbeat). While the mystery is perfectly clear, the revealed secrets twist the plot repeatedly. Anika and her sister stole my heart and are believable characters in turmoil. One of my favorite movies from the 80’s is filled with quotable one-liners - I thoroughly enjoyed these additions in the book! In my opinion, this story would make a perfect movie. Kudos to the author for concise writing and an editor who polished it beautifully.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌀(ARC) Homecoming Queen by Chad Boudreaux🌀 


I can’t tell you when the last time was that I read a thriller I would categorize as “unputdownable”. Whatever it was, it’s been knocked out of the water by this book. This story is packed with tension, questions, intrigue and a literal “hurricane of the century”. 


Anika’s love for her sister is fierce and unrelenting. That’s the type of sibling dynamic I love to see in a story. This particular storyline is fast-paced and gripping. 


I want to thank Chad for sharing such an on-the-edge-of-your-seat thriller, and PR By The Book for a physical copy of the book! I’m happy to add it to the list of books I’d gladly recommend to a friend. 

[Howard Davis · Rating 1 out of 5]

As a reader who was thoroughly impressed and completely enthralled by Chad Boudreaux’s debut novel, Scavenger Hunt, I was delighted to receive an ARC from NetGalley and Morgan James Fiction. Unfortunately, this book did not appeal to me at all. There was not a likable or relatable character in the book and the major themes of small town politics, lies and deceit, an approaching hurricane and, most of all, the supernatural were not at all enjoyable and, unfortunately, I cannot recommend this book.

[Kate | Date With A Thriller · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 rounded up to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I almost felt like there was too much going on with this book. 👀 It’s part thriller but also part paranormal. I think I would have enjoyed it more if the author stuck with either just thriller or paranormal, not a mix of both. 🫣

I really struggled to like the FMC! 😩She’s really an unlikable character and it was hard for me to root for her.

While not a bad book, this one just didn’t work for me. I do encourage you to check it out for yourself, my book peeps!! Just because it didn’t work for me does not mean it won’t work for you!! Lots of others enjoyed it!! 🤓

[Maddie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Going into this book, I wasn’t fully prepared for how many layers this book has. The foreshadowing throughout the book is set up nicely. On the surface this book is a political thriller with small town drama but once you get into the story there are other elements such as supernatural themes and conspiracy. A lot of the characters are flushed out well with even secondary characters having their own background. While I wish the book had a little more political thriller and less supernatural I was happy with this read.

[Stella Marchione · Rating 3 out of 5]

There was alot going on in this novel. Our heroine was up against a lot- both human and nature and maybe something more. It was a fun read.

[Stevie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Terrible

[Cheryl · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was flat out weird. Several parallel storylines loosely intertwined with voodoo magic. Not my jam.