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I Don't Wish You Well
Not yet published
Expected 20 Jan 26A teen investigative podcaster decides to dig into the truth behind a grisly murder spree that rocked his hometown five years ago, but soon discovers that this cold case is still hiding deadly secrets—in this chilling thriller perfect for fans of A Good Girl's Guide to Murder.
Five years ago, the infamous Trojan murders turned the small town of Moss Pointe, Louisiana into a living nightmare. Four teen boys—all star players on Moss Pointe High's football team—were murdered one after the other by a Trojan-mask wearing killer.
Eventually, the murderer was unmasked. But the community has never forgotten—and some folks in town still wonder whether the police got it right.
Eighteen-year-old Pryce Cummings is one of them. An aspiring journalist, Pryce is pretty sure he just stumbled upon evidence that throws the killer's guilt into question. It's the perfect story for his own podcast, and a reason to go back to the hometown he's avoided since coming to terms with his sexuality while at college.
But in Moss Pointe, digging into the past is anything but welcome. There's so much more to what happened in there five years ago, and Pryce is ready to crack it all wide open . . . if he lives to tell the tale.
Five years ago, the infamous Trojan murders turned the small town of Moss Pointe, Louisiana into a living nightmare. Four teen boys—all star players on Moss Pointe High's football team—were murdered one after the other by a Trojan-mask wearing killer.
Eventually, the murderer was unmasked. But the community has never forgotten—and some folks in town still wonder whether the police got it right.
Eighteen-year-old Pryce Cummings is one of them. An aspiring journalist, Pryce is pretty sure he just stumbled upon evidence that throws the killer's guilt into question. It's the perfect story for his own podcast, and a reason to go back to the hometown he's avoided since coming to terms with his sexuality while at college.
But in Moss Pointe, digging into the past is anything but welcome. There's so much more to what happened in there five years ago, and Pryce is ready to crack it all wide open . . . if he lives to tell the tale.
400 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication January 20, 2026
19 people are currently reading
9548 people want to read
About the author
Jumata Emill
3 books221 followersJumata Emill is a journalist who has covered crime and local politics in Mississippi and parts of Louisiana. He earned his BA in mass communications from Southern University and A&M College. He’s a Pitch Wars alum and a member of the Crime Writers of Color. When he’s not writing about murderous teens, he’s watching and obsessively tweeting about every franchise of the Real Housewives. Jumata lives in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and is the author of The Black Queen and Wander in the Dark.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
November 17, 2025
This turned out to be one of my slowest reads ever—but not for the reasons you might think. It wasn’t because the book was dull or failed to hook me. Quite the opposite! I read it slowly because it was so intense, thought-provoking, and emotionally overwhelming that I wanted to savor every page.
This is one of the most earth-shatteringly powerful, tension-simmering, provocative, and brilliantly executed thrillers I’ve read in a long time. It tackles a host of painful, triggering issues that haunt the fictional small town of Moss Pointe, Louisiana—a place where football reigns supreme, white privilege dictates who gets away with what, and the justice system consistently fails those who need it most. Beneath its polite Southern charm, Moss Pointe reeks of bigotry, hypocrisy, and homophobia, suffocating anyone who dares to live authentically or come clean about who they are.
This is a town where scheming and repression run deep, where secrets are buried under layers of silence, and where a string of bloody serial murders shakes its foundations. The victims? Local football stars—once treated as untouchable heroes—whose brutal deaths reveal just how toxic the town’s worship of success and masculinity really is.
I found myself devouring this story slowly because there’s so much to unpack. The case of the so-called Trojan Murders—named after the killer’s eerie Trojan mask—is more than just a local tragedy. When Deuce Beasley, the young man accused of the crimes, is found dead in his room after an anonymous tip, the town is quick to close the case. But could he have been innocent all along?
As new secrets come to light—hidden lives, corrupt local figures, and long-buried scandals—the puzzle grows deeper and darker. The author keeps throwing one shocking revelation after another, barely giving the reader time to breathe before dropping the next bombshell. And that final twist? It made me literally scream! I did not see it coming. It’s rare for a thriller to surprise me this much, and this one absolutely did.
I loved how every thread came together seamlessly, with no loose ends or plot holes. It’s a smart, realistic, and emotionally charged thriller that delves into the darkest corners of small-town life—touching on racism, homophobia, bigotry, sexual assault, substance abuse, and parental neglect. This isn’t an easy read; it’s raw and painful at times, which is exactly why I took my time with it. Some chapters made me furious, others left me in tears. But every emotion was earned.
This is more than a five-star read—it’s a ten-out-of-ten experience, and I’m certain it will be one of my top reads of 2026 when it’s published this January.
Story Recap
Eighteen-year-old Pryce Cummings had hoped to escape his hometown of Moss Pointe for the summer, but when he can’t find a job, he’s forced to stay. Moss Pointe is still infamous for the Trojan Murders—a string of killings that took the lives of four young football players years ago.
Pryce dreads being home, forced to keep his sexuality hidden from his parents—especially his father, who’s obsessed with football and appearances. But when Pryce stumbles upon an online comment from Herman Young, who insists that accused killer Deuce Beasley was innocent and at home with his wife at the time of the murders, Pryce’s curiosity turns into obsession.
Determined to uncover the truth, Pryce starts a true-crime podcast investigating the case. Deuce, who had been secretly gay, was believed to have killed the players out of revenge after they discovered his secret. But what if Deuce was framed? What if the real killer is still out there?
Pryce reaches out to Isiah “Izzy” Stokes, Deuce’s ex-boyfriend who escaped Moss Pointe for a freer life in New Orleans. At first, Izzy refuses to get involved, but when tragedy strikes the town again, he returns—helping Pryce dig deeper into the corruption and lies buried beneath Moss Pointe’s surface.
As Pryce gets closer to the truth, he risks not only his reputation but also his life, especially when his own family turns against him. And when the truth finally comes out—it changes everything.
Final Thoughts
I really hope the author brings Pryce Cummings back for future stories—his emotional journey, growth, and courage to embrace his identity were beautifully written.
This is a dark, gut-wrenching, and unforgettable read, one that lingers long after you close the last page. It’s the kind of book that keeps echoing in your head for months, reminding you why fiction can be so powerful.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (10/10 if I could!)
A huge thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children’s Books / Delacorte Press for the ARC of this phenomenal thriller in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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This is one of the most earth-shatteringly powerful, tension-simmering, provocative, and brilliantly executed thrillers I’ve read in a long time. It tackles a host of painful, triggering issues that haunt the fictional small town of Moss Pointe, Louisiana—a place where football reigns supreme, white privilege dictates who gets away with what, and the justice system consistently fails those who need it most. Beneath its polite Southern charm, Moss Pointe reeks of bigotry, hypocrisy, and homophobia, suffocating anyone who dares to live authentically or come clean about who they are.
This is a town where scheming and repression run deep, where secrets are buried under layers of silence, and where a string of bloody serial murders shakes its foundations. The victims? Local football stars—once treated as untouchable heroes—whose brutal deaths reveal just how toxic the town’s worship of success and masculinity really is.
I found myself devouring this story slowly because there’s so much to unpack. The case of the so-called Trojan Murders—named after the killer’s eerie Trojan mask—is more than just a local tragedy. When Deuce Beasley, the young man accused of the crimes, is found dead in his room after an anonymous tip, the town is quick to close the case. But could he have been innocent all along?
As new secrets come to light—hidden lives, corrupt local figures, and long-buried scandals—the puzzle grows deeper and darker. The author keeps throwing one shocking revelation after another, barely giving the reader time to breathe before dropping the next bombshell. And that final twist? It made me literally scream! I did not see it coming. It’s rare for a thriller to surprise me this much, and this one absolutely did.
I loved how every thread came together seamlessly, with no loose ends or plot holes. It’s a smart, realistic, and emotionally charged thriller that delves into the darkest corners of small-town life—touching on racism, homophobia, bigotry, sexual assault, substance abuse, and parental neglect. This isn’t an easy read; it’s raw and painful at times, which is exactly why I took my time with it. Some chapters made me furious, others left me in tears. But every emotion was earned.
This is more than a five-star read—it’s a ten-out-of-ten experience, and I’m certain it will be one of my top reads of 2026 when it’s published this January.
Story Recap
Eighteen-year-old Pryce Cummings had hoped to escape his hometown of Moss Pointe for the summer, but when he can’t find a job, he’s forced to stay. Moss Pointe is still infamous for the Trojan Murders—a string of killings that took the lives of four young football players years ago.
Pryce dreads being home, forced to keep his sexuality hidden from his parents—especially his father, who’s obsessed with football and appearances. But when Pryce stumbles upon an online comment from Herman Young, who insists that accused killer Deuce Beasley was innocent and at home with his wife at the time of the murders, Pryce’s curiosity turns into obsession.
Determined to uncover the truth, Pryce starts a true-crime podcast investigating the case. Deuce, who had been secretly gay, was believed to have killed the players out of revenge after they discovered his secret. But what if Deuce was framed? What if the real killer is still out there?
Pryce reaches out to Isiah “Izzy” Stokes, Deuce’s ex-boyfriend who escaped Moss Pointe for a freer life in New Orleans. At first, Izzy refuses to get involved, but when tragedy strikes the town again, he returns—helping Pryce dig deeper into the corruption and lies buried beneath Moss Pointe’s surface.
As Pryce gets closer to the truth, he risks not only his reputation but also his life, especially when his own family turns against him. And when the truth finally comes out—it changes everything.
Final Thoughts
I really hope the author brings Pryce Cummings back for future stories—his emotional journey, growth, and courage to embrace his identity were beautifully written.
This is a dark, gut-wrenching, and unforgettable read, one that lingers long after you close the last page. It’s the kind of book that keeps echoing in your head for months, reminding you why fiction can be so powerful.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (10/10 if I could!)
A huge thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children’s Books / Delacorte Press for the ARC of this phenomenal thriller in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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November 24, 2025
I liked this book a lot. For me the recipe for a good mystery is giving little clues that make it possible for the reader to figure it out before the big reveal, and I Don’t Wish You Well gave me exactly that. I had a hunch pretty early on and as the pieces were making a clearer picture I didn’t want to be right so it was such a good experience. I love the format of including some interviews and news articles peppered throughout the book, it made the story move at a fast pace that I like.
I don’t want to say much about it but we basically follow a teenager back home from his first year at university trying to investigate a crime that happened years ago because he feels the police didn’t solve it and just settled for the easiest option.
I love everything about it. It’s dark at times but I like how it didn’t flinch from difficult conversations. At the end of the book there’s information about the author and upon seeing he’s a journalist with experience covering crime stories I totally get why this is so good and feels like something that happened before(and it probably did, the world is a messed up place).
Thank you Netgalley and Delacorte press for the ARC.
I don’t want to say much about it but we basically follow a teenager back home from his first year at university trying to investigate a crime that happened years ago because he feels the police didn’t solve it and just settled for the easiest option.
I love everything about it. It’s dark at times but I like how it didn’t flinch from difficult conversations. At the end of the book there’s information about the author and upon seeing he’s a journalist with experience covering crime stories I totally get why this is so good and feels like something that happened before(and it probably did, the world is a messed up place).
Thank you Netgalley and Delacorte press for the ARC.
January 13, 2026
Intense, insightful, provocative, and emotional, I Don’t Wish You Well was a powerful look at some deeply thought-provoking topics. Exploring identity, self-worth, revenge, and justice, it was just as hard to read as it was to put down. You see, not only did this incisive tale explore a handful of dark subjects, but it did so with sensitivity and care. On top of that, thanks to a whodunnit plot perfect for fans of Holly Jackson’s A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, the small-town prejudices intertwined cleverly with the podcaster-turned-amateur sleuth’s hunt for the truth. Add to that oodles of long-buried secrets, manipulative schemes, and cat-and-mouse games, and I couldn’t put this book down once I met the true-to-life narrator. A queer teen battling with how he fits into his world, he was an honest portrayal of some of my friends experiences as well.
All said and done, despite quite a few triggers in a book meant for teens, I found this mystery/thriller an easy win. Was it somewhat predictable at times? Well…okay, maybe. That didn’t, however, change my opinion. After all, from the realistic feel to the gossipy small-town setting, the fact that it wasn’t entirely original wasn’t a negative. It was, in fact, one of the biggest selling points to this page-turning puzzle. A story that could’ve been pulled straight out of the headlines, it felt both timely and relevant in our current world. Of course, the mixed media format helped with that too. So if you love murder mysteries that go deeper or true-crime plots that feel real, you need to grab this book now. Smart, captivating, and binge-able, it was not only a must-read for teens but one that should be required for adults as well. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Five years ago, the infamous Trojan murders turned the small town of Moss Pointe, Louisiana into a living nightmare. Four teen boys—all star players on Moss Pointe High's football team—were murdered one after the other by a Trojan-mask wearing killer.
Eventually, the murderer was unmasked. But the community has never forgotten—and some folks in town still wonder whether the police got it right.
Eighteen-year-old Pryce Cummings is one of them. An aspiring journalist, Pryce is pretty sure he just stumbled upon evidence that throws the killer's guilt into question. It's the perfect story for his own podcast, and a reason to go back to the hometown he's avoided since coming to terms with his sexuality while at college.
But in Moss Pointe, digging into the past is anything but welcome. There's so much more to what happened there five years ago, and Pryce is ready to crack it all wide open . . . if he lives to tell the tale.
Thank you Jumata Emill and Delacorte Press for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 20, 2026
Content warning: infidelity, homophobia, child abuse, rape, kidnapping, violence, mention of: stalking, gun violence
All said and done, despite quite a few triggers in a book meant for teens, I found this mystery/thriller an easy win. Was it somewhat predictable at times? Well…okay, maybe. That didn’t, however, change my opinion. After all, from the realistic feel to the gossipy small-town setting, the fact that it wasn’t entirely original wasn’t a negative. It was, in fact, one of the biggest selling points to this page-turning puzzle. A story that could’ve been pulled straight out of the headlines, it felt both timely and relevant in our current world. Of course, the mixed media format helped with that too. So if you love murder mysteries that go deeper or true-crime plots that feel real, you need to grab this book now. Smart, captivating, and binge-able, it was not only a must-read for teens but one that should be required for adults as well. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Five years ago, the infamous Trojan murders turned the small town of Moss Pointe, Louisiana into a living nightmare. Four teen boys—all star players on Moss Pointe High's football team—were murdered one after the other by a Trojan-mask wearing killer.
Eventually, the murderer was unmasked. But the community has never forgotten—and some folks in town still wonder whether the police got it right.
Eighteen-year-old Pryce Cummings is one of them. An aspiring journalist, Pryce is pretty sure he just stumbled upon evidence that throws the killer's guilt into question. It's the perfect story for his own podcast, and a reason to go back to the hometown he's avoided since coming to terms with his sexuality while at college.
But in Moss Pointe, digging into the past is anything but welcome. There's so much more to what happened there five years ago, and Pryce is ready to crack it all wide open . . . if he lives to tell the tale.
Thank you Jumata Emill and Delacorte Press for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 20, 2026
Content warning: infidelity, homophobia, child abuse, rape, kidnapping, violence, mention of: stalking, gun violence
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November 7, 2025help what is this book and why was i emailed an arc of it 😭
i’ve never heard of or seen this book in my life
i’ve never heard of or seen this book in my life
January 5, 2026
I really enjoy Emil’s work. He often does a great job of integrating social commentary into his novels while also keeping the reader’s attention with intense suspense. This book is no exception - if you’re looking for a YA/new adult thriller that tackles complicated topics of justice and social expectations of young Black men while also keeping you on the edge of your seat, this is for you.
November 19, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this novel. All my thoughts and opinions are my own.
Real rating: 4.25 stars
Every prediction I had, no matter how early on, ended up being correct. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. What matters is, the book is still good enough to keep reading anyway. And it was. I was thoroughly entertained from start to finish. I would recommend this book to anyone.
Real rating: 4.25 stars
Every prediction I had, no matter how early on, ended up being correct. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. What matters is, the book is still good enough to keep reading anyway. And it was. I was thoroughly entertained from start to finish. I would recommend this book to anyone.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Emill is a brilliant voice for the deep south young queers. His blatant exposure of how marginalized communities are open for abuse, the impacts on community and all the anger.
This plot is rough, brutal, reality for so many - just here it is. Now you've seen it, what are you going to do?
This plot is rough, brutal, reality for so many - just here it is. Now you've seen it, what are you going to do?
September 24, 2025
This is the first book that I have read by Jumata Emill and I have to say that I was thoroughly engrossed in it. The town of Moss Pointe really felt like so many places I have experienced living in the south. I loved the mystery of it all. The layers to the story that built on each other make it stand out from your average who dun it. The formatting was also super interesting. I have always been drawn to book where authors experiment with telling stories through a variety of mediums. I loved getting to piece this story together along with Pryce through police reports, interview transcripts, and news articles.
I would recommend this for someone who is looking for a contemporary thriller or is a lover of true crime and wants to solve a mystery.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
I would recommend this for someone who is looking for a contemporary thriller or is a lover of true crime and wants to solve a mystery.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
November 26, 2025
Thanks NetGalley for the eARC!
Jumata Emill always knows how to make the third act reveal feel like the rug gets pulled out from underneath you! I had a hunch, but truly was WAY off on the main killer. The systemic issues faced in this book are ones that we should not shy away from, so I appreciate them being brought to light.
Jumata Emill always knows how to make the third act reveal feel like the rug gets pulled out from underneath you! I had a hunch, but truly was WAY off on the main killer. The systemic issues faced in this book are ones that we should not shy away from, so I appreciate them being brought to light.
January 3, 2026
Five years after the a serial killer terrorized the football players in a town, a teen investigator believes that the individual who was blamed for the deaths was actually framed, so he starts a podcast to dig back into this case even though it is definitely not what anyone in the town wants. This intense read proves that sometimes you should trust your gut and push the norms because the truth is worth figuring out.
October 17, 2025
This book felt like a mix of Angie Thomas’ The Hate U Give with a splash of your typical podcast thriller.
The writing is easy to read and I always enjoy reading black characters written by black authors. I don’t have to struggle reading between the lines of the slang because I already speak the language.
Part coming out story, part murder mystery, and part come up—I Don’t Wish You Well is the story of racial inequities, injustice, and vigilantism.
The writing is easy to read and I always enjoy reading black characters written by black authors. I don’t have to struggle reading between the lines of the slang because I already speak the language.
Part coming out story, part murder mystery, and part come up—I Don’t Wish You Well is the story of racial inequities, injustice, and vigilantism.
November 18, 2025
Some writers catch you with their plot. Others pull you in with characters that make your insides squeeze. Then there are the world builders extraordinaire, who create spaces that you just want to nestle in.
This book? Jumata Emill? He exemplifies all three!
First off, the plot. A serial killer in a small, quiet religious town who kills four teen football heroes. The killer is supposedly caught, but has committed suicide and is cast as evil because of his sexuality. A young man who is now in college but lived through those events finds evidence that the assumed guilty party may be innocent. This young man is a journalism major and decides to do a podcast as he digs for the actual truth.
I could not resist that plot. Could you?
Then we had the actual characters. Reading their lives, their emotions, their words, stole my breath away. The pain was raw. While the grief felt so real. I felt the damage that was done on individual levels and the fear that paralysed our main character when it came to revealing his own secrets. All of the characters felt like people you either knew or could meet any day of your life. Which added to the awesomeness of this book.
Finally, there was the world-building. From wild college experiences, and immediate lifelong friends straight into the homes of the side characters and the dynamics at the police station, they all lifted this book into must-read status. It is a 360-degree immersive experience from page one until the book is done, four months into the future.
My jaw dropped, my breath gushed out, and I went through equal measures of pain and relief in this murder mystery. It felt authentic. Talk about a great way to spend my weekend.
I definitely have to ensure my Jumata Emill collection is complete and treat his work like the reading priority it should be.
If small-town secrets mixed with murder and true-crime podcasts are your thing, this book is your next fix!
This book? Jumata Emill? He exemplifies all three!
First off, the plot. A serial killer in a small, quiet religious town who kills four teen football heroes. The killer is supposedly caught, but has committed suicide and is cast as evil because of his sexuality. A young man who is now in college but lived through those events finds evidence that the assumed guilty party may be innocent. This young man is a journalism major and decides to do a podcast as he digs for the actual truth.
I could not resist that plot. Could you?
Then we had the actual characters. Reading their lives, their emotions, their words, stole my breath away. The pain was raw. While the grief felt so real. I felt the damage that was done on individual levels and the fear that paralysed our main character when it came to revealing his own secrets. All of the characters felt like people you either knew or could meet any day of your life. Which added to the awesomeness of this book.
Finally, there was the world-building. From wild college experiences, and immediate lifelong friends straight into the homes of the side characters and the dynamics at the police station, they all lifted this book into must-read status. It is a 360-degree immersive experience from page one until the book is done, four months into the future.
My jaw dropped, my breath gushed out, and I went through equal measures of pain and relief in this murder mystery. It felt authentic. Talk about a great way to spend my weekend.
I definitely have to ensure my Jumata Emill collection is complete and treat his work like the reading priority it should be.
If small-town secrets mixed with murder and true-crime podcasts are your thing, this book is your next fix!
November 18, 2025
Boy Jumata has outdone himself this time! I’ve said it before, and I'll say it again: whenever he releases something, I guarantee I'll finish it within 24 hours. And this one was no different — it had my heart racing and my mind spinning as I tried to piece everything together! Just like our main character, Pryce Cummings, I slowly started to click things into focus. From the very first page to the last, I was completely captivated by this wild ride of a story. There were a few surprises that left my jaw on the floor, things I never saw coming. Jumata's storytelling talent is incredible and keeps you craving more. I had to pause and process my thoughts and feelings long after I finished. All I can say is, THIS IS HOW YOU WRITE A MURDER MYSTERY!! Don’t miss out on this upcoming release, dropping January 20, 2026! Thank you, Delacorte Press, for the e-ARC.
Read
January 2, 2026This felt like a cross between The Cheeleaders by Kara Thomas and A Good Girls Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson, with a college student (and aspiring journalist) digging into a cold case, epistolary elements, and the murder of football players.
As soon as the murderer appeared on the page I had that person scoped out, but I always enjoy Jumata Emill's books and this was no exception.
Content warning for some pretty dark topics (child molestation and abuse, pedophilia and child pornography), but not graphic descriptions.
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
As soon as the murderer appeared on the page I had that person scoped out, but I always enjoy Jumata Emill's books and this was no exception.
Content warning for some pretty dark topics (child molestation and abuse, pedophilia and child pornography), but not graphic descriptions.
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
December 24, 2025
Thank you Random House Children's Books/ Delacorte Press for this ARC! All views here are my own.
I really really enjoyed this book! If you are a thriller reader this one is for you! This didn't read too heavily into YA but had its moments. Please read the description for more of the story.
I couldn't stop reading and finished this within a day. The character development, the twists, and the realness kept me turning the page. I'll try and post more after thoughts soon! Pre-order this one!
I really really enjoyed this book! If you are a thriller reader this one is for you! This didn't read too heavily into YA but had its moments. Please read the description for more of the story.
I couldn't stop reading and finished this within a day. The character development, the twists, and the realness kept me turning the page. I'll try and post more after thoughts soon! Pre-order this one!
October 22, 2025
I really loved this story. Pryce is a deeply sympathetic character, and it is easy to put yourself in his shoes. Pryce's transformation in this book is as believable as it is hopeful. This story shines light on many taboo subjects. This book will be purchased for my YA collection and I will be recommending in to all my mystery and thriller readers (adults included!).
December 21, 2025
4.5 stars! such a good book!! read this book in like 5 hours while i couldn’t sleep and i love how it ended!! this was a very well written story with crazy plot twists! pryce is veryyy pippa fitz-amobi if you know what i mean!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received a free eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I’m not 100% sure what made me request this, especially since I feel like I’ve lost patience for much of YA recently. But either way, I kept seeing it, so I decided to give it a shot. It’s reasonably entertaining, although I am definitely feeling murder mystery podcast fatigue, as a trope. Honestly I kind of wish this had been set during the actual murders, rather than having Pryce investigate them five years after the fact.
Five years ago, four members of the football team were brutally murdered by someone known only as the Trojan Mask Killer (because they…wore a trojan mask? Actually it’s not 100% clear if the killer *actually* wore the mask or if that just became part of the lore, now that I’m thinking about it). But luckily the killer’s reign of terror came to an end when he killed himself rather than be caught by the police, who were closing in thanks to an anonymous tip. Deuce Beales was named as the killer, but his uncle always claimed he was innocent, and that the town used him as a scapegoat because he was a gay drug dealer, so they weren’t sad to see him gone.
Enter Pryce, who has just finished his freshman year of college, and was a freshman in high school when all of this went down. He’s decided to look into the murders and the idea that Deuce may have been innocent. He’s hoping to use all of this for a podcast because as an aspiring journalist, this is the best way to get the info out there (and honestly that tracks. I remember thinking it was nuts that the protagonist of The Meadowbrook Murders truly believed she could break a story in traditional print media. Doesn’t mean I’m not still sick of reading about amateur podcasters, but this does feel true to life at least). Pryce is also closeted, and his close-minded Louisiana small town does not have a great track record with gay kids (Deuce himself being exhibit A). He teams up with a guy named Izzy, who was in the same class as the murdered football players. Izzy has escaped to New Orleans and is living his best life, so it rang a tiny bit false to me that he’s willing to drop all of that and return to a place that made him so miserable, all to help out this kid he doesn’t know.
They start investigating and uncover quite a few shocking truths, namely that the football players weren’t the angels they seemed. But the closer Pryce gets to answers, the more he starts to think someone might be after him too.
I liked Pryce as a character - he’s a believable teenaged detective, including the fact that he makes some questionable decisions in the name of chasing a lead. And I was interested in the mystery of the original murders, and the apparent conspiracy that went much deeper than it originally appeared. But again, I feel like it would have been more interesting to have this just…follow the murders as they occurred. Since they don’t all happen on the same night, but rather over a period of a couple of weeks, there was probably this looming sense of dread. I think it would have had more impact if we could have followed a different character and sadly lost Pryce entirely (given that he was a freshman at the time and thus not involved in any of this).
Five years ago, four members of the football team were brutally murdered by someone known only as the Trojan Mask Killer (because they…wore a trojan mask? Actually it’s not 100% clear if the killer *actually* wore the mask or if that just became part of the lore, now that I’m thinking about it). But luckily the killer’s reign of terror came to an end when he killed himself rather than be caught by the police, who were closing in thanks to an anonymous tip. Deuce Beales was named as the killer, but his uncle always claimed he was innocent, and that the town used him as a scapegoat because he was a gay drug dealer, so they weren’t sad to see him gone.
Enter Pryce, who has just finished his freshman year of college, and was a freshman in high school when all of this went down. He’s decided to look into the murders and the idea that Deuce may have been innocent. He’s hoping to use all of this for a podcast because as an aspiring journalist, this is the best way to get the info out there (and honestly that tracks. I remember thinking it was nuts that the protagonist of The Meadowbrook Murders truly believed she could break a story in traditional print media. Doesn’t mean I’m not still sick of reading about amateur podcasters, but this does feel true to life at least). Pryce is also closeted, and his close-minded Louisiana small town does not have a great track record with gay kids (Deuce himself being exhibit A). He teams up with a guy named Izzy, who was in the same class as the murdered football players. Izzy has escaped to New Orleans and is living his best life, so it rang a tiny bit false to me that he’s willing to drop all of that and return to a place that made him so miserable, all to help out this kid he doesn’t know.
They start investigating and uncover quite a few shocking truths, namely that the football players weren’t the angels they seemed. But the closer Pryce gets to answers, the more he starts to think someone might be after him too.
I liked Pryce as a character - he’s a believable teenaged detective, including the fact that he makes some questionable decisions in the name of chasing a lead. And I was interested in the mystery of the original murders, and the apparent conspiracy that went much deeper than it originally appeared. But again, I feel like it would have been more interesting to have this just…follow the murders as they occurred. Since they don’t all happen on the same night, but rather over a period of a couple of weeks, there was probably this looming sense of dread. I think it would have had more impact if we could have followed a different character and sadly lost Pryce entirely (given that he was a freshman at the time and thus not involved in any of this).
August 11, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and Delacorte Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Jumata Emill’s “I Don’t Wish You Well” is a tense, razor-sharp thriller that combines true-crime podcast intrigue with a scathing look at small-town prejudice, toxic masculinity, and the way power protects itself. With its immersive storytelling, biting social commentary, and jaw-dropping twists, it’s perfect for fans of “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” but with an even darker, more unflinching edge.
Five years ago, the infamous Trojan murders shook Moss Pointe, Louisiana: four star high school football players were brutally killed by a masked assailant. The killer was caught, or so the town believes. But Pryce Cummings, an eighteen-year-old aspiring journalist and closeted gay Black teen, has just stumbled across evidence that might prove otherwise. Armed with a microphone and a determination to tell the truth, Pryce launches his own investigation for his podcast as he returns to a hometown that never accepted him.
Moss Pointe is not a safe place for Pryce. As soon as he starts digging, the walls close in: some people want the past left buried, and others are more than willing to blame “the gay kid” for anything that goes wrong. Emill doesn’t pull punches in portraying the intersection of racism and homophobia, as well as the ugly realities of Southern football culture where star players are untouchable and privilege can cover up the worst crimes.
The story is enriched by podcast transcripts, police reports, and social media posts, giving you multiple angles on the murders while showing how bias shapes perception. The book also confronts heavy subjects, including the long-term effects of childhood trauma and the devastating cycle of abuse, with sensitivity and care (content warnings apply, especially for mentions of child sexual abuse). You definitely want to be aware of content warnings before going into this book as SA on children and teenagers is mentioned throughout the book. I would recommend this book for older readers.
Despite its darkness, the story finds moments of light through Pryce’s wry humor, the loyal friends who join his investigation, and his complicated but heartfelt connection with his mother. These relationships keep the book from sinking into pure bleakness and make Pryce’s fight for truth all the more urgent.
The mystery is masterfully constructed, with multiple twists that land hard. The identity of the killer is a genuine shock, and Emill layers in one final reveal that redefines everything you thought you knew. While I did want some more subtle foreshadowing, the payoff is so satisfying and so morally complex that it’s hard to complain.
Overall, this is a chilling, unflinching thriller that’s as much about exposing systemic injustice as it is about solving a murder. Jumata Emill delivers a knockout debut that is equal parts mystery, social commentary, and survival story. Pryce Cummings is a protagonist you’ll root for long after the final page.
Jumata Emill’s “I Don’t Wish You Well” is a tense, razor-sharp thriller that combines true-crime podcast intrigue with a scathing look at small-town prejudice, toxic masculinity, and the way power protects itself. With its immersive storytelling, biting social commentary, and jaw-dropping twists, it’s perfect for fans of “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” but with an even darker, more unflinching edge.
Five years ago, the infamous Trojan murders shook Moss Pointe, Louisiana: four star high school football players were brutally killed by a masked assailant. The killer was caught, or so the town believes. But Pryce Cummings, an eighteen-year-old aspiring journalist and closeted gay Black teen, has just stumbled across evidence that might prove otherwise. Armed with a microphone and a determination to tell the truth, Pryce launches his own investigation for his podcast as he returns to a hometown that never accepted him.
Moss Pointe is not a safe place for Pryce. As soon as he starts digging, the walls close in: some people want the past left buried, and others are more than willing to blame “the gay kid” for anything that goes wrong. Emill doesn’t pull punches in portraying the intersection of racism and homophobia, as well as the ugly realities of Southern football culture where star players are untouchable and privilege can cover up the worst crimes.
The story is enriched by podcast transcripts, police reports, and social media posts, giving you multiple angles on the murders while showing how bias shapes perception. The book also confronts heavy subjects, including the long-term effects of childhood trauma and the devastating cycle of abuse, with sensitivity and care (content warnings apply, especially for mentions of child sexual abuse). You definitely want to be aware of content warnings before going into this book as SA on children and teenagers is mentioned throughout the book. I would recommend this book for older readers.
Despite its darkness, the story finds moments of light through Pryce’s wry humor, the loyal friends who join his investigation, and his complicated but heartfelt connection with his mother. These relationships keep the book from sinking into pure bleakness and make Pryce’s fight for truth all the more urgent.
The mystery is masterfully constructed, with multiple twists that land hard. The identity of the killer is a genuine shock, and Emill layers in one final reveal that redefines everything you thought you knew. While I did want some more subtle foreshadowing, the payoff is so satisfying and so morally complex that it’s hard to complain.
Overall, this is a chilling, unflinching thriller that’s as much about exposing systemic injustice as it is about solving a murder. Jumata Emill delivers a knockout debut that is equal parts mystery, social commentary, and survival story. Pryce Cummings is a protagonist you’ll root for long after the final page.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I Don’t Wish You Well by Jumata Emill is a dark, tightly wound thriller that thrives on tension, secrecy, and the slow realization that asking the wrong questions can get you hurt. From the start, there’s an oppressive sense of unease—this is a town that has already decided what the truth is, and Pryce’s decision to reopen old wounds immediately puts him at odds with people who would rather keep the past buried.
Emill’s writing is sharp and deliberate, steadily ratcheting up the suspense rather than relying on nonstop action. The investigative structure is especially effective: podcast transcripts, interviews, articles, and Pryce’s narration are woven together to create a relentless forward momentum that mirrors real-world true crime journalism. Each new lead doesn’t bring relief—it deepens the mystery and raises the stakes. As Pryce digs further, the story shifts from cautious inquiry to full-blown paranoia, where every conversation feels loaded and every silence feels threatening.
Pryce is written as a convincingly flawed amateur journalist. He’s smart and driven, but inexperienced, and his mistakes feel realistic rather than convenient. That vulnerability makes the danger feel real, especially as the novel exposes layers of corruption, prejudice, and violence lurking beneath the town’s carefully maintained image. The social commentary is seamlessly embedded into the thriller itself, reinforcing that the mystery isn’t just about who committed the crime, but why it was so easy for the wrong narrative to be accepted in the first place.
By the final act, the tension is fully dialed up, delivering a conclusion that’s unsettling rather than comforting. I Don’t Wish You Well doesn’t offer easy answers or clean resolutions—it leaves you sitting with the consequences of truth and the cost of uncovering it. Dark, atmospheric, and relentlessly suspenseful, this is a YA thriller that punches well above its weight.
Thank you to Delacorte Press and NetGalley for the gifted eARC. All opinions are my own
Emill’s writing is sharp and deliberate, steadily ratcheting up the suspense rather than relying on nonstop action. The investigative structure is especially effective: podcast transcripts, interviews, articles, and Pryce’s narration are woven together to create a relentless forward momentum that mirrors real-world true crime journalism. Each new lead doesn’t bring relief—it deepens the mystery and raises the stakes. As Pryce digs further, the story shifts from cautious inquiry to full-blown paranoia, where every conversation feels loaded and every silence feels threatening.
Pryce is written as a convincingly flawed amateur journalist. He’s smart and driven, but inexperienced, and his mistakes feel realistic rather than convenient. That vulnerability makes the danger feel real, especially as the novel exposes layers of corruption, prejudice, and violence lurking beneath the town’s carefully maintained image. The social commentary is seamlessly embedded into the thriller itself, reinforcing that the mystery isn’t just about who committed the crime, but why it was so easy for the wrong narrative to be accepted in the first place.
By the final act, the tension is fully dialed up, delivering a conclusion that’s unsettling rather than comforting. I Don’t Wish You Well doesn’t offer easy answers or clean resolutions—it leaves you sitting with the consequences of truth and the cost of uncovering it. Dark, atmospheric, and relentlessly suspenseful, this is a YA thriller that punches well above its weight.
Thank you to Delacorte Press and NetGalley for the gifted eARC. All opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from Author
Special thanks to @brownboywriting for my signed copy I’ll love you forever for sending me this book & @delacortepress @netgalley for the gifted e-ARC.
Who can be trusted . . . NOBODY‼️
My favorite author is back with another banger and I’m telling y’all right now you do not wanna miss out on this book.
I Don't Wish You Well follows eighteen-year-old college freshman Pryce Cummings an aspiring journalist who’s about to uncover some of the biggest secrets and scandals to ever occur in the small town of Moss Pointe, Louisiana. One of them being the infamous Trojan murders that resulted in the death of four teens and another teen who may have been falsely accused. What begins as a simple pitch for a campus true crime podcast turns into something Pryce wasn’t prepared for but was determined to see through.
This book was sooooo good I could barely put it down! It’s suspenseful, fast-paced, with a true crime investigative type feel that will have you on the edge of your seat. Every time Pryce investigated someone new readers get another twist in the plot. If you think you know who did it think again because I can guarantee you guessed wrong. We even get a subplot with Pryce struggling with his sexuality. The way the author wove this into the story was well done. When you meet Pryce’s family you’ll understand why I say that. I was probably more nervous than him to see his dad’s reaction.
Overall, the book is amazing but y’all already knew I was gonna say that. The ending was jaw dropping so it was only right I give the book the 5-stars it deserved. Jumata’s pen game is flawless he takes YA thrillers to a whole new level. If you love YA books or thrillers that are unpredictable, will keep you guessing, and everybody is a suspect read this book‼️
TW: Suicide, Racism, Homophobia, Sexual Assault
Who can be trusted . . . NOBODY‼️
My favorite author is back with another banger and I’m telling y’all right now you do not wanna miss out on this book.
I Don't Wish You Well follows eighteen-year-old college freshman Pryce Cummings an aspiring journalist who’s about to uncover some of the biggest secrets and scandals to ever occur in the small town of Moss Pointe, Louisiana. One of them being the infamous Trojan murders that resulted in the death of four teens and another teen who may have been falsely accused. What begins as a simple pitch for a campus true crime podcast turns into something Pryce wasn’t prepared for but was determined to see through.
This book was sooooo good I could barely put it down! It’s suspenseful, fast-paced, with a true crime investigative type feel that will have you on the edge of your seat. Every time Pryce investigated someone new readers get another twist in the plot. If you think you know who did it think again because I can guarantee you guessed wrong. We even get a subplot with Pryce struggling with his sexuality. The way the author wove this into the story was well done. When you meet Pryce’s family you’ll understand why I say that. I was probably more nervous than him to see his dad’s reaction.
Overall, the book is amazing but y’all already knew I was gonna say that. The ending was jaw dropping so it was only right I give the book the 5-stars it deserved. Jumata’s pen game is flawless he takes YA thrillers to a whole new level. If you love YA books or thrillers that are unpredictable, will keep you guessing, and everybody is a suspect read this book‼️
TW: Suicide, Racism, Homophobia, Sexual Assault
August 13, 2025
Thank you Delacorte Press and Netgalley for this eARC, these opinions are my own. Y’all when I tell you I am still in my feelings with this one! And that feeling is mostly rage!! I couldn’t put it down! Jumata Emill knows how to hook a reader and leave them shook!!! 5 years ago in the small town of Moss Pointe Louisiana four people were killed by a masked killer. These boys were rich, popular, and football gods, three of them were white. The fourth was black. The assumed killer was a recently outed young black man, also a known drug dealer, who presumably killed the four boys because they outed him as gay. It’s believed that after killing the boys he ended his own life. The town has used this to vilify the sin of homosexuality. Pryce, a journalism student at an HBCU, is from Moss Pointe. His own sexuality his a secret from everybody back home, including his family. When he sees a comment that proclaims Deuce, the accused killer, was innocent. He decides that he can investigate the claims and the killings for a a project for school. With the help of Deuce’s former not so secret boyfriend Izzy, he’ll delve into the sordid secrets of the past. Only no one is happy he is doing so and what he uncovers goes far deeper then he imagined possible. And soon he finds himself terrorized as well. Are him and Izzy in danger from the real masked killer? Are some secrets to personal to divulge? Moss Pointe seems to be full of secrets and how far with people go to keep them that way? A tense thriller that is full of intrigue and twists and turns! Deep rooted homophobia, racism, corruption, cyclical trauma, and injustice. An explosive ending that I didn’t see coming and still has me pondering right and wrong! A must read for mystery lovers!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An advance copy of this book was provided to me for free by the publisher.
Tense, gripping, and packed with jaw-dropping twists, I Don’t Wish You Well by Ryan Douglass hooks you from the first page and refuses to let go. Pryce, a budding journalist in his first year of college, is still finding his voice, both in his craft and in his personal life, as he explores his sexuality. When he decides to investigate a string of murders from his small Louisiana hometown to create a true-crime podcast, he hopes to uncover the true culprit, prove himself to his family, and shake his small town's belief that the crimes were connected to the assumed killer's homosexuality. As he peels back the layers on the investigation, he uncovers dark secrets about his neighbors and the truth about the murders.
I loved how this book balanced the perils of capitalizing on the sensationalism of true crime and suffocating pressure to conform in small towns. The novel thoughtfully captures the experience of a young, closeted Black man terrified that being honest about who he is could cost him his family’s love, while also interrogating how communities often protect people in power regardless of the harm they cause.
Despite the heavy themes, the story is balanced with sharp humor, witty banter, and pop-culture references, especially as Pryce teams up with Izzy, someone with close ties to the crime, to piece together the mystery. Their dynamic adds levity without undercutting the tension. The pacing is relentless, the clues are layered, and the final reveal left me reeling and questioning everything I thought I knew.
✨ If you love twisty thrillers that blend true-crime with small-town secrets, I Don’t Wish You Well should be at the top of your reading list.
Tense, gripping, and packed with jaw-dropping twists, I Don’t Wish You Well by Ryan Douglass hooks you from the first page and refuses to let go. Pryce, a budding journalist in his first year of college, is still finding his voice, both in his craft and in his personal life, as he explores his sexuality. When he decides to investigate a string of murders from his small Louisiana hometown to create a true-crime podcast, he hopes to uncover the true culprit, prove himself to his family, and shake his small town's belief that the crimes were connected to the assumed killer's homosexuality. As he peels back the layers on the investigation, he uncovers dark secrets about his neighbors and the truth about the murders.
I loved how this book balanced the perils of capitalizing on the sensationalism of true crime and suffocating pressure to conform in small towns. The novel thoughtfully captures the experience of a young, closeted Black man terrified that being honest about who he is could cost him his family’s love, while also interrogating how communities often protect people in power regardless of the harm they cause.
Despite the heavy themes, the story is balanced with sharp humor, witty banter, and pop-culture references, especially as Pryce teams up with Izzy, someone with close ties to the crime, to piece together the mystery. Their dynamic adds levity without undercutting the tension. The pacing is relentless, the clues are layered, and the final reveal left me reeling and questioning everything I thought I knew.
✨ If you love twisty thrillers that blend true-crime with small-town secrets, I Don’t Wish You Well should be at the top of your reading list.
November 6, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I DON'T WISH YOU WELL by Jumata Emill (Jan 20, 2026)
Thank you Netgalley, Delacorte, and GetUnderlined for the earc
Five years after the m*rders of four teens (all football players), Pryce Cummings is one of the people who never caught---who wondered if the police got it right. It's the perfect story for a podcast. But his hometown of Mass Pointe isn't welcoming. Can Pryce crack the case or will he d*e trying?
I DON'T WISH YOU WELL is a YA m*rder mystery. This fast-paced read starts with a bang that doesn't let up until the final, shocking reveal
One of the things I liked most of this is the way it's told: through podcast transcripts, social media posts, etc. Those things added a certain level of insight into what happened five years ago. That alone gave me, as a reader, things to pick apart and offered more points of view about what happened to those four teens and everyone involved. I never saw the whodunit reveal coming---or the ending which kept offering twist after twist Emill wrote this in such a way that, even with all the "investigative material," each time I made an assumption about what was coming, what happened five years ago, who the actual k*ller was, I was wrong.
I DON'T WISH YOU WELL is thought-provoking with a powerful main character learning not to care what people in his hometown thinks as he investigates ---despite an immense fear of what they'd think. This investigative thriller is unpredictable and well-written. Highly recommend for those looking for more podcast forward stories.
I DON'T WISH YOU WELL by Jumata Emill (Jan 20, 2026)
Thank you Netgalley, Delacorte, and GetUnderlined for the earc
Five years after the m*rders of four teens (all football players), Pryce Cummings is one of the people who never caught---who wondered if the police got it right. It's the perfect story for a podcast. But his hometown of Mass Pointe isn't welcoming. Can Pryce crack the case or will he d*e trying?
I DON'T WISH YOU WELL is a YA m*rder mystery. This fast-paced read starts with a bang that doesn't let up until the final, shocking reveal
One of the things I liked most of this is the way it's told: through podcast transcripts, social media posts, etc. Those things added a certain level of insight into what happened five years ago. That alone gave me, as a reader, things to pick apart and offered more points of view about what happened to those four teens and everyone involved. I never saw the whodunit reveal coming---or the ending which kept offering twist after twist Emill wrote this in such a way that, even with all the "investigative material," each time I made an assumption about what was coming, what happened five years ago, who the actual k*ller was, I was wrong.
I DON'T WISH YOU WELL is thought-provoking with a powerful main character learning not to care what people in his hometown thinks as he investigates ---despite an immense fear of what they'd think. This investigative thriller is unpredictable and well-written. Highly recommend for those looking for more podcast forward stories.
November 16, 2025
I thought this story was amazing - lots of twists and turns, a perfect murder mystery, and a decent amount of commentary about homophobia or people being different. There are several threads skillfully woven together - the is an older murder mystery where four football players were murdered several years ago, but also the supposed "suicide" of their "murder," a secret ring of child sexual abuse, and illicit drug trafficking. Pryce, a college student going into his sophomore year at college studying journalism, wants to do a podcast regarding the Trojan murders (the Trojans were his high school football team). One of his first stops is to chat with Isaiah Stokes, aka Izzy, who was involved with Duece Beales, the supposed murderer. Izzy doesn't provide much info at first, but later appears in their old hometown to serve as Pryce's sidekick for the investigation. The pair interview all sorts of characters including the principal of the elementary school, who has his own secrets to hide, a corrupt chief of police, the high school girlfriend of one of the dead boys, and a doctor father of one of the deceased. Pryce pieces things together despite his kidnapping at the hands of someone he trusted, stonewalling from the police at every turn, and more and more leads wherever he looks. As you approach the end of the story, you may be able to guess who the killer is, but there are a few other surprises that you likely won't see coming. This was a page-turning read for me, and I would definitely recommend it!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Language: R (81 swears, 16 “f”); Mature Content: PG13; Violence: PG13
Five years ago, the case of the Trojan Mask Murders was closed when Deuce was found dead with a gun in his hand, assumedly having killed himself over the guilt of what he had done. But at the death of Deuce’s uncle, Sampson, someone posts about knowing Deuce was innocent—the only person other than Sampson to suggest it. Pryce, having just finished his first year at university majoring in journalism, starts his own investigation based on that statement and follows the story.
Pryce makes mistakes as he chases down the truth, and those are my favorite parts of his story. The twists and turns and mess of secrets Pryce unveils feels like so many other books in this genre, and Pryce stands out because Emill lets him feel like the amateur journalist sleuthing around that he is. Everything else was still enjoyable to read, and readers will scoot to the edge of their seats as they get sucked in with every page, all those feelings typical of this genre.
The majority of characters are Black, and several significant characters, including Pryce and Isaiah, are gay. The mature content rating is for drug and alcohol use, including mentions of underage drinking; kissing; illegal activity; mentions of nudity, pornography, pedophiles, and sex; and innuendo. The violence rating is for assault, gun use, and for mentions of domestic violence, child and sexual abuse, rape, suicide, and murder.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
Five years ago, the case of the Trojan Mask Murders was closed when Deuce was found dead with a gun in his hand, assumedly having killed himself over the guilt of what he had done. But at the death of Deuce’s uncle, Sampson, someone posts about knowing Deuce was innocent—the only person other than Sampson to suggest it. Pryce, having just finished his first year at university majoring in journalism, starts his own investigation based on that statement and follows the story.
Pryce makes mistakes as he chases down the truth, and those are my favorite parts of his story. The twists and turns and mess of secrets Pryce unveils feels like so many other books in this genre, and Pryce stands out because Emill lets him feel like the amateur journalist sleuthing around that he is. Everything else was still enjoyable to read, and readers will scoot to the edge of their seats as they get sucked in with every page, all those feelings typical of this genre.
The majority of characters are Black, and several significant characters, including Pryce and Isaiah, are gay. The mature content rating is for drug and alcohol use, including mentions of underage drinking; kissing; illegal activity; mentions of nudity, pornography, pedophiles, and sex; and innuendo. The violence rating is for assault, gun use, and for mentions of domestic violence, child and sexual abuse, rape, suicide, and murder.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
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Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Pryce Cummings is an 18 year old college student studying journalism. Heading home for the summer, Pryce is inspired to start an investigative podcast about a string of murders that rocked his small, sleepy town of Moss Pointe 5 years prior. While the police chief and town felt the story had been put to bed, Pryce felt differently after uncovering new information about the alleged perpetrator, Deuce and his location during at least one of the murders. After teaming up with Deuce's ex-boyfriend Izzy, Pryce begins to uncover a lot more about the Trojan Murders and he will have to decide if his safety is worth the pursuit of truth.
This is my first Jumata Emill book, it certainly won't be my last. Emill is able to really bring you into the story. The emotional depth as Pryce works to learn the truth, while also struggling with his families reaction to being gay, kept the story intense from start to finish. You had characters to root for, root again, and sometimes that also meant rooting for and again certain characters.
This book is heavy in that it covers themes like classism, homophobia, racism, and CSA. The small town, which is simply trying to move on, is it's own ecosystem of corrupting and seeing how Pryce takes it down piece by piece was enjoyable to read.
I loved how the ending cleaned up all of the lose ends and nothing felt unfinished. I also thought the writing was intelligent and the pacing was good.
My first book of 2026 and already in the running for a Top in 2026.
Thank you to GetUnderlined for the gifted copy.
This is my first Jumata Emill book, it certainly won't be my last. Emill is able to really bring you into the story. The emotional depth as Pryce works to learn the truth, while also struggling with his families reaction to being gay, kept the story intense from start to finish. You had characters to root for, root again, and sometimes that also meant rooting for and again certain characters.
This book is heavy in that it covers themes like classism, homophobia, racism, and CSA. The small town, which is simply trying to move on, is it's own ecosystem of corrupting and seeing how Pryce takes it down piece by piece was enjoyable to read.
I loved how the ending cleaned up all of the lose ends and nothing felt unfinished. I also thought the writing was intelligent and the pacing was good.
My first book of 2026 and already in the running for a Top in 2026.
Thank you to GetUnderlined for the gifted copy.
October 7, 2025
4 stars
I've enjoyed Emill's previous books, and this newest effort makes for another great read.
Years ago, four young men were murdered by their university mascot - or at least a person wearing the mascot's mask. While the case was solved, the healing is not over, and that's why this hometown case makes great fodder for a local burgeoning podcaster, Pryce.
Pryce is a fascinating protagonist, and while there are many aspects of this read I enjoyed, his characterization is near the top. He's laser focused on finding truth while also hiding his own version of that, and his personal journey is in some ways even more intriguing than what happens with the central mystery.
Readers need to be prepared for some tough content here. Yes, the focal issue connects to a multiple murder plot, but there are other heinous crimes afoot. Rape, sexual assault, and homophobia all occur in this novel, and they are not one-time instances. This information is all in play for a plot-driven purpose, not just to terrorize readers' sensibilities, but it's still something readers must manage with care.
There are many layered characters and buried secrets, and Emill takes readers into the root of all of them. This is another solid and gritty read from this author, and I look forward to more.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Delacorte Press for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
I've enjoyed Emill's previous books, and this newest effort makes for another great read.
Years ago, four young men were murdered by their university mascot - or at least a person wearing the mascot's mask. While the case was solved, the healing is not over, and that's why this hometown case makes great fodder for a local burgeoning podcaster, Pryce.
Pryce is a fascinating protagonist, and while there are many aspects of this read I enjoyed, his characterization is near the top. He's laser focused on finding truth while also hiding his own version of that, and his personal journey is in some ways even more intriguing than what happens with the central mystery.
Readers need to be prepared for some tough content here. Yes, the focal issue connects to a multiple murder plot, but there are other heinous crimes afoot. Rape, sexual assault, and homophobia all occur in this novel, and they are not one-time instances. This information is all in play for a plot-driven purpose, not just to terrorize readers' sensibilities, but it's still something readers must manage with care.
There are many layered characters and buried secrets, and Emill takes readers into the root of all of them. This is another solid and gritty read from this author, and I look forward to more.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Delacorte Press for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
December 6, 2025
Five years ago in Moss Pointe, Louisiana, a murder suicide claimed the lives of four high school football stars and their classmate, Deuce, who was attempting to silence them from revealing the truth about his sexuality. At the time Pryce Cummings was a closeted freshman, and disconnected from a town that cared more about their Friday night lights than anything else. Now Pryce is a journalism student in college and has new information that could lead to a different killer, so for his summer research he decides to go back to his home town start and investigative podcast by interviewing the people closest to the case. However, the people of Moss Pointe believe the case was closed five years ago, and encourage Pryce to leave it alone. But Pryce knows there is more to the story, and he will stop at nothing to figure out what really happened.
I have now read all three of Jumata Emill's books, and they are all five stars, but this one might just be my favorite yet. Maybe it's because I relate to the suffocating small town toxic football culture that Pryce confronts in this book. Maybe it's because the writing and characters are so engaging and gripping. Maybe it's because I'm a HUGE Kelly Clarkson fan and the title of this book is an homage to one of her songs. Regardless, I love a thriller author who creates characters who have depth and also have sense and clear motivations. Intertwined with a captivating mystery, was also a heartfelt exploration of coming to terms with one's identity and how Queer people are often so scared to tell the people closest to them the truth about themselves because they are scared it will change how much they are loved. I truly never wanted this book to end, but I was also in desperate need to know the answers. Without saying too much, I will put this simply; The ending gutted me, and I really need someone else to read this book so we can discuss my complicated emotions, because my feelings are not black and white here.
I have now read all three of Jumata Emill's books, and they are all five stars, but this one might just be my favorite yet. Maybe it's because I relate to the suffocating small town toxic football culture that Pryce confronts in this book. Maybe it's because the writing and characters are so engaging and gripping. Maybe it's because I'm a HUGE Kelly Clarkson fan and the title of this book is an homage to one of her songs. Regardless, I love a thriller author who creates characters who have depth and also have sense and clear motivations. Intertwined with a captivating mystery, was also a heartfelt exploration of coming to terms with one's identity and how Queer people are often so scared to tell the people closest to them the truth about themselves because they are scared it will change how much they are loved. I truly never wanted this book to end, but I was also in desperate need to know the answers. Without saying too much, I will put this simply; The ending gutted me, and I really need someone else to read this book so we can discuss my complicated emotions, because my feelings are not black and white here.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jumata Emill has done it again—and I do not say that lightly. This is another edge‑of‑your‑seat thriller I devoured in three days flat, the kind of story that has you whispering just one more chapter until suddenly it’s 2 a.m., your tea is cold and you’re clutching the pages like they might spill one last secret if you hold them close enough. I didn’t want it to end, and truthfully, I’m still lingering in its shadows, letting the tension settle like a strong brew.
When Pryce returns home from college, he doesn’t just bring his journalism major and his podcast dreams—he brings questions. Sharp, unsettling ones. The kind that stir up old wounds and peel back the polite Southern veneer Moss Pointe has been hiding behind for far too long.
As Pryce digs deeper, Emill threads the narrative with interviews, transcripts, and true‑crime textures that make the story feel chillingly real. It may be fiction, but it carries the weight, the ache, and the emotional truth of a case that never stopped haunting the town.
Emill writes with a journalist’s precision and a storyteller’s heart, clean lines, deep cuts, and a rhythm that keeps you leaning in. Every layer reveals another bruise, another lie, another truth someone tried to bury. And the way he handles the emotional weight, especially around Pryce’s identity and the town’s hypocrisy, feels honest, raw, and necessary. It’s the kind of storytelling I love to sit with, sip on, and savor long after the final page.
When Pryce returns home from college, he doesn’t just bring his journalism major and his podcast dreams—he brings questions. Sharp, unsettling ones. The kind that stir up old wounds and peel back the polite Southern veneer Moss Pointe has been hiding behind for far too long.
As Pryce digs deeper, Emill threads the narrative with interviews, transcripts, and true‑crime textures that make the story feel chillingly real. It may be fiction, but it carries the weight, the ache, and the emotional truth of a case that never stopped haunting the town.
Emill writes with a journalist’s precision and a storyteller’s heart, clean lines, deep cuts, and a rhythm that keeps you leaning in. Every layer reveals another bruise, another lie, another truth someone tried to bury. And the way he handles the emotional weight, especially around Pryce’s identity and the town’s hypocrisy, feels honest, raw, and necessary. It’s the kind of storytelling I love to sit with, sip on, and savor long after the final page.
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