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I Don't Wish You Well
A 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 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 there five years ago, and Pryce is ready to crack it all wide open . . . if he lives to tell the tale.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 20, 2026
98 people are currently reading
13672 people want to read
About the author
Jumata Emill
3 books271 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 244 reviews
February 11, 2026
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 26, 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
February 16, 2026
⅘ stars ☆☆☆☆
｡*ﾟ+ 𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀 ｡*ﾟ+
❥First thank you to Netgalley for giving me this arc!
Second wowzers this book was wild. It's literally A Good Girls Guide to Murder but with a gay dude. I think it's one of the few books I've read to actually depict how life is and not sugarcoating it. But it shows that life isn't all cheery and flowery like some books and TV shows. Honestly it almost made me cry.
I loved the plot. It did get confusing at times since there were so many characters. And the first half of it was kinda slow but honestly that doesn't affect my rating because I didn't mind. Like I was still invested.
I related to Pryce on another level. I don't think some people understand how scary it is to be queer and to live in a homophobic and religious environment (speaking from experience). Literally wanted to hug him throughout this whole book. I wish this wasn't a standalone because I honestly would've liked to see more with Pryce navigating through life. But oh well, I am happy with how this ended. Can't say anything else because I don't want to spoil sigh
But like genuinely what the fuck because the police and the whole football team was awful. Like the police disgust me (actually a lot of characters in this book disgust me). A girl gets 🍇 and the police say that it never happened and she was just making up a story because her boyfriend didn't text her the next day??? Like what??? And the only reason they were defending him was because the dude was rich. I've never felt more rage at a character than I have at this f-ing police officer.
Idk why but I was expecting a romance with Pryce and Izzy…Google lied to me. But if I'm gonna be honest I did like the friendship. So I'm not mad loll I preferred it actually
BUT AGH THE END. IT WAS SO SADDDDD 😭Okay it wasn't that sad I think I just got too connected with the characters and that was my fault.
｡*ﾟ+𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼 ｡*ﾟ+
❥Pryce~ my man Pryce. Icon. Love him.
❥Izzy~ …no comment. He deserved better, I will say that. Wish I could say more
｡*ﾟ+𝓕𝓲𝓷𝓪𝓵 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ｡*ﾟ+
❥Again thank you to Netgalley and the author! I really liked this book. I'm looking forward to seeing other people read it. Anyway yeah that's the review! Peace ✌️
｡*ﾟ+ 𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀 ｡*ﾟ+
❥First thank you to Netgalley for giving me this arc!
Second wowzers this book was wild. It's literally A Good Girls Guide to Murder but with a gay dude. I think it's one of the few books I've read to actually depict how life is and not sugarcoating it. But it shows that life isn't all cheery and flowery like some books and TV shows. Honestly it almost made me cry.
I loved the plot. It did get confusing at times since there were so many characters. And the first half of it was kinda slow but honestly that doesn't affect my rating because I didn't mind. Like I was still invested.
I related to Pryce on another level. I don't think some people understand how scary it is to be queer and to live in a homophobic and religious environment (speaking from experience). Literally wanted to hug him throughout this whole book. I wish this wasn't a standalone because I honestly would've liked to see more with Pryce navigating through life. But oh well, I am happy with how this ended. Can't say anything else because I don't want to spoil sigh
But like genuinely what the fuck because the police and the whole football team was awful. Like the police disgust me (actually a lot of characters in this book disgust me). A girl gets 🍇 and the police say that it never happened and she was just making up a story because her boyfriend didn't text her the next day??? Like what??? And the only reason they were defending him was because the dude was rich. I've never felt more rage at a character than I have at this f-ing police officer.
Idk why but I was expecting a romance with Pryce and Izzy…Google lied to me. But if I'm gonna be honest I did like the friendship. So I'm not mad loll I preferred it actually
BUT AGH THE END. IT WAS SO SADDDDD 😭Okay it wasn't that sad I think I just got too connected with the characters and that was my fault.
｡*ﾟ+𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼 ｡*ﾟ+
❥Pryce~ my man Pryce. Icon. Love him.
❥Izzy~ …no comment. He deserved better, I will say that. Wish I could say more
｡*ﾟ+𝓕𝓲𝓷𝓪𝓵 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ｡*ﾟ+
❥Again thank you to Netgalley and the author! I really liked this book. I'm looking forward to seeing other people read it. Anyway yeah that's the review! Peace ✌️
Currently reading
March 19, 2026I feel like this book is going to have me in my feels!
The synopsis and the title alone is so intriguing!
Fingers crossed this is another great read!
🖤❤️💛🖤❤️
The synopsis and the title alone is so intriguing!
Fingers crossed this is another great read!
🖤❤️💛🖤❤️
March 11, 2026
Wait a second, did I just enjoy a YA novel??!
It’s been years since I’ve read a YA that has worked for me, but when I saw the synopsis of Jumata Emill’s newly released YA mystery, I DON’T WISH YOU WELL, I knew that I needed to buy a copy and see for myself!
Five years after a masked killer murdered four star football players in Moss Pointe, Louisiana, 18 year old college student and podcaster Pryce Cummings returns home to investigate the infamous “Trojan murders” and uncover the truth behind the case. As he digs deeper into the town’s dark secrets, and the possibility that the wrong person was blamed, Pryce realizes exposing the truth could cost him his life.
This story dives into sexuality and acceptance in Deep South Louisiana, which immediately intrigued me. Pryce is a fantastic protagonist to root for and the mystery was very well plotted. I didn’t know how it would unfold initially. I did end up figuring some of it out, but it didn’t take away from my enjoyment. I finished this book in three sittings, one being on the subway, one being while hanging with Jax 🐈⬛, and the last being before bed (I’m still sleepy from spending too much time reading and not enough time sleeping!). I will definitely read more from this author and I hope to see more stories like I DON’T WISH YOU WELL on my TBR! STARS: 4, PUB: out now!
It’s been years since I’ve read a YA that has worked for me, but when I saw the synopsis of Jumata Emill’s newly released YA mystery, I DON’T WISH YOU WELL, I knew that I needed to buy a copy and see for myself!
Five years after a masked killer murdered four star football players in Moss Pointe, Louisiana, 18 year old college student and podcaster Pryce Cummings returns home to investigate the infamous “Trojan murders” and uncover the truth behind the case. As he digs deeper into the town’s dark secrets, and the possibility that the wrong person was blamed, Pryce realizes exposing the truth could cost him his life.
This story dives into sexuality and acceptance in Deep South Louisiana, which immediately intrigued me. Pryce is a fantastic protagonist to root for and the mystery was very well plotted. I didn’t know how it would unfold initially. I did end up figuring some of it out, but it didn’t take away from my enjoyment. I finished this book in three sittings, one being on the subway, one being while hanging with Jax 🐈⬛, and the last being before bed (I’m still sleepy from spending too much time reading and not enough time sleeping!). I will definitely read more from this author and I hope to see more stories like I DON’T WISH YOU WELL on my TBR! STARS: 4, PUB: out now!
January 27, 2026
WOOOOOOooooboy! This is a *ride*, folks. All you have to tell me is that it’s about a true crime podcast, and I’m in.
Pryce Cummings is in his first year of college with plans to become a journalist. With his mentor’s permission, he sets off for his hometown to investigate four murders that happened five years previously. The problem is, Pryce has come out at college, but no one at home knows he’s gay, not even his parents or sibling. So he has to appear straight for an entire summer, which is especially hard when you’ve been enjoying the freedom to be yourself all year. Worse yet, the perpetrator of the murders was also gay, in a Deep South, good-ol-boy town where masculinity is toxic, and high school football is EVERYTHING. Not only is everyone already homophobic, since the murders, they ALSO think that gays are depraved murderers. It’s not a good situation to walk into, nor to start poking around in an attempt to exonerate the alleged killer.
But poke around, he does–to disastrous effect. However, Pryce knows he’s onto something. There are secrets that the townspeople are hiding.
And those people will do anything to keep them.
Even commit murder.
Can Pryce unravel the mystery before tragedy strikes yet again?
Emill is great at building tension and suspense. This was my first read of his, and I’m officially a fan. The plot zig-zagged around so much that it was hard to keep track of who was a suspect, and there are *many* secrets to uncover–not just the Trojan murders. That’s a good thing. The author had me going until the final reveal, and I did not guess it…at ALL. I love when that happens!
Thanks, as always, to NetGalley and Delacorte Press for gifting me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Pryce Cummings is in his first year of college with plans to become a journalist. With his mentor’s permission, he sets off for his hometown to investigate four murders that happened five years previously. The problem is, Pryce has come out at college, but no one at home knows he’s gay, not even his parents or sibling. So he has to appear straight for an entire summer, which is especially hard when you’ve been enjoying the freedom to be yourself all year. Worse yet, the perpetrator of the murders was also gay, in a Deep South, good-ol-boy town where masculinity is toxic, and high school football is EVERYTHING. Not only is everyone already homophobic, since the murders, they ALSO think that gays are depraved murderers. It’s not a good situation to walk into, nor to start poking around in an attempt to exonerate the alleged killer.
But poke around, he does–to disastrous effect. However, Pryce knows he’s onto something. There are secrets that the townspeople are hiding.
And those people will do anything to keep them.
Even commit murder.
Can Pryce unravel the mystery before tragedy strikes yet again?
Emill is great at building tension and suspense. This was my first read of his, and I’m officially a fan. The plot zig-zagged around so much that it was hard to keep track of who was a suspect, and there are *many* secrets to uncover–not just the Trojan murders. That’s a good thing. The author had me going until the final reveal, and I did not guess it…at ALL. I love when that happens!
Thanks, as always, to NetGalley and Delacorte Press for gifting me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
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Want to read
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 19, 2026
I could tell very early that this one was going to be a deep read! The overall premise was gripping and intriguing, as we dive into an investigation that is reopened into the grizzly murders of the star line up of a high school football team.
Pryce is determined to get to the truth. As a freshman in Journalism major he dives into this investigation, despite resistance from his parents, community and basically the entire town. Literally everyone he asks is simply saying “leave it alone.” From the beginning of Pryce’s investigation, it was evident that there was so much more going on with this case!
This story dove into some heavy topics such as young black men battling sexual identity, social acceptance, police corruption, sabotage & more! Overall, a great read that I couldn’t put down. Thank you NetGalley & Random House Children's Books for an advanced reader copy.
Publication 🗓️ : 01.20.26
Pryce is determined to get to the truth. As a freshman in Journalism major he dives into this investigation, despite resistance from his parents, community and basically the entire town. Literally everyone he asks is simply saying “leave it alone.” From the beginning of Pryce’s investigation, it was evident that there was so much more going on with this case!
This story dove into some heavy topics such as young black men battling sexual identity, social acceptance, police corruption, sabotage & more! Overall, a great read that I couldn’t put down. Thank you NetGalley & Random House Children's Books for an advanced reader copy.
Publication 🗓️ : 01.20.26
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.
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.
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March 15, 2026
The first book I read in one sitting in a long time! The writing and format were very engaging and I loved how Emill introduced the story and Pryce, our main character. The tension was there from the beginning and rose and rose and rose up until the very end. A warning that the story does deal with heavy subject matters that are listed as content warnings below.
It was fun to try and put the pieces of this murder mystery together. I picked up most of the hints and clues throughout, but was left with a few questions as the book wrapped up. It was a bit of an open ending when it came to part of the investigation: while we knew who was to blame, there were some unanswered questions about exactly certain things came about, specially in regard to the Trojan-mask wearing killer's case.
Also! I'm not entirely sure how I feel about the resolution around the boys' murders. Spoilers: Even so, I did have a good time reading this.
Warnings: .
It was fun to try and put the pieces of this murder mystery together. I picked up most of the hints and clues throughout, but was left with a few questions as the book wrapped up. It was a bit of an open ending when it came to part of the investigation: while we knew who was to blame, there were some unanswered questions about exactly certain things came about, specially in regard to the Trojan-mask wearing killer's case.
Also! I'm not entirely sure how I feel about the resolution around the boys' murders. Spoilers: Even so, I did have a good time reading this.
Warnings: .
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January 30, 2026Thank you to PRH Audio for a copy of this audiobook.
Wow. This book was… wow.
I devoured this one. Gripped from the first chapter, I couldn’t put this book down. I had to know who the killer was, and, as I started to put the pieces together, I wanted to be wrong.
There’s an exploration of several heavy topics that is handled with sensitivity and care. Please check the trigger warnings before reading.
I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed the narration. I definitely recommend this one!
Wow. This book was… wow.
I devoured this one. Gripped from the first chapter, I couldn’t put this book down. I had to know who the killer was, and, as I started to put the pieces together, I wanted to be wrong.
There’s an exploration of several heavy topics that is handled with sensitivity and care. Please check the trigger warnings before reading.
I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed the narration. I definitely recommend this one!
February 13, 2026
How far would you go to protect a lie?
In a town built on status and shadows, I Don't Wish You Well proves that the truth always finds a way to burn everything down...
Loved this book so much! This was super exciting read that kept me guessing! I kind of had a hunch of who was behind the Trojan murders but with every twist, I was doubting myself.
Pryce is determined to find the truth about the murders in his hometown, and the story is full of surprises. The small town feels real, and the themes of identity and bravery make it even better. If you like true crime and mystery, you'll love this.
Definitely a five-star read for me 🤎
In a town built on status and shadows, I Don't Wish You Well proves that the truth always finds a way to burn everything down...
Loved this book so much! This was super exciting read that kept me guessing! I kind of had a hunch of who was behind the Trojan murders but with every twist, I was doubting myself.
Pryce is determined to find the truth about the murders in his hometown, and the story is full of surprises. The small town feels real, and the themes of identity and bravery make it even better. If you like true crime and mystery, you'll love this.
Definitely a five-star read for me 🤎
February 24, 2026
4.25 stars. a black queer led YA mystery-thriller that follows a young closeted queer journalists' investigation into the gruesome murder of four high school football players in his small hometown. i started this yesterday and hit the ground running today. bingeable and unputdownable. small towns usually have the biggest, darkest secrets and of course moss pointe, louisiana was no different. there was so many complex themes highlighted, but this was well layered and thought provoking, especially for YAs and YA book lovers. if you love true crime podcasts and the unveiling of big secrets in small towns, check those trigger warnings, add this to your up next and enjoy the ride!
March 2, 2026
Damn. Just, wow.
I admit it. I wouldn't have chosen to read this book. I recommended it as a purchase for my local library after reading about it. Louisiana author, the kind of book teens enjoy.
But since I recommended it, I was sent the book when the library purchased it. And it filled one of my PopSugar prompts, so I read it.
So glad I did. Honest, real,storytelling. Solid writing. Engaging story. Fair, realistic, oddly kind.
Well done.
I admit it. I wouldn't have chosen to read this book. I recommended it as a purchase for my local library after reading about it. Louisiana author, the kind of book teens enjoy.
But since I recommended it, I was sent the book when the library purchased it. And it filled one of my PopSugar prompts, so I read it.
So glad I did. Honest, real,storytelling. Solid writing. Engaging story. Fair, realistic, oddly kind.
Well done.
January 21, 2026
I went back and forth on this one because while I didn’t love it, I didn’t dislike it either. In the end, I think this just wasn’t written for me, and that’s okay!
This is a queer YA, mixed-media mystery that follows a teenage boy who becomes the focus of an investigation after his former best friend is seriously harmed. The story unfolds through interviews, messages, and documents (my favorite part), slowly peeling back secrets, shifting perspectives, and the way public opinion can twist the truth.
The premise is strong and timely, and I appreciated how it explored identity, friendship, and social pressure. That said, I never fully connected with the characters, which left me feeling a bit emotionally detached throughout. I kept waiting for it to really grab me, and it just… didn’t.
Overall, it’s a well-done, thoughtful mystery that I respect more than I enjoyed. I can definitely see it resonating with readers who love mixed-media storytelling and YA mysteries focused on identity and perception.
This is a queer YA, mixed-media mystery that follows a teenage boy who becomes the focus of an investigation after his former best friend is seriously harmed. The story unfolds through interviews, messages, and documents (my favorite part), slowly peeling back secrets, shifting perspectives, and the way public opinion can twist the truth.
The premise is strong and timely, and I appreciated how it explored identity, friendship, and social pressure. That said, I never fully connected with the characters, which left me feeling a bit emotionally detached throughout. I kept waiting for it to really grab me, and it just… didn’t.
Overall, it’s a well-done, thoughtful mystery that I respect more than I enjoyed. I can definitely see it resonating with readers who love mixed-media storytelling and YA mysteries focused on identity and perception.
January 22, 2026
“I would never wish bad things, but I don’t wish you well.”
Jumata Emill has done it again!
If you are looking for a slow burn mysterious thrill that centers finding the identity of a serial killer then this may be your next read.
-18 y/o inspiring journalist MMC
-Nancy Drew vibes
-pro religion & anti homosexuality small town
-uncovering dark secrets
-queer representation
-“Who did it?” trope
-embracing your identity
-problematic football culture
-race & social hierarchy
-complex family dynamics
-justice & healing
-standing in your truth
-found family
Black & queer thrillers were not common for me growing up. It is so refreshing to read young adult thrillers with necessary representation.
I was on the edge of my seat the entire time!
I would recommend this to older young adults. (Ages 16+) due to the intense trigger warnings.
Check your trigger warnings.
-extreme homophobic
-drug use
-sexual assault
-homophobia
-murder & violence
-pedophilia
-sexual harassment
-underage drinking
-gun violence
-addiction
Jumata Emill has done it again!
If you are looking for a slow burn mysterious thrill that centers finding the identity of a serial killer then this may be your next read.
-18 y/o inspiring journalist MMC
-Nancy Drew vibes
-pro religion & anti homosexuality small town
-uncovering dark secrets
-queer representation
-“Who did it?” trope
-embracing your identity
-problematic football culture
-race & social hierarchy
-complex family dynamics
-justice & healing
-standing in your truth
-found family
Black & queer thrillers were not common for me growing up. It is so refreshing to read young adult thrillers with necessary representation.
I was on the edge of my seat the entire time!
I would recommend this to older young adults. (Ages 16+) due to the intense trigger warnings.
Check your trigger warnings.
-extreme homophobic
-drug use
-sexual assault
-homophobia
-murder & violence
-pedophilia
-sexual harassment
-underage drinking
-gun violence
-addiction
January 24, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, Delacorte Press and Jumata Emill for my gifted digital copy.
Listened along via Audible. The narrators did an amazing job. This was a production.
This story had so many layers. Acceptance, family, friends, football pride and the “culture” it comes with, truth, police and more. Pryce was the perfect mc to have the story told through. He was willing to risk it all for the truth no matter what his small community, parents, and even brother thought of him doing this. When something doesn’t sit right shouldn’t we all want to know the truth? Some things never change. Only the faces.
The pace of this story along with investigation kept me tuned in. I had some predictions early on and now I’m thinking I might need to change careers LOL. This could be movie or a limited series.
Pryce’s mom is a real gem.
Highly recommend.
Listened along via Audible. The narrators did an amazing job. This was a production.
This story had so many layers. Acceptance, family, friends, football pride and the “culture” it comes with, truth, police and more. Pryce was the perfect mc to have the story told through. He was willing to risk it all for the truth no matter what his small community, parents, and even brother thought of him doing this. When something doesn’t sit right shouldn’t we all want to know the truth? Some things never change. Only the faces.
The pace of this story along with investigation kept me tuned in. I had some predictions early on and now I’m thinking I might need to change careers LOL. This could be movie or a limited series.
Pryce’s mom is a real gem.
Highly recommend.
January 25, 2026
This is a perfect example of how you write suspense!! Jumata Emill is a beast with the pen!
I was locked in from page 1! The plot thickened as the story progressed and I just knew I knew who the culprit was, but was wrong!!
This book was absolutely amazing. I would love it if this was adapted into a movie because I could visualize all the events happening. And that plot twist at the end was mind blowing!! I did not expect that at all!
Yes, I highly recommend this one!
I was locked in from page 1! The plot thickened as the story progressed and I just knew I knew who the culprit was, but was wrong!!
This book was absolutely amazing. I would love it if this was adapted into a movie because I could visualize all the events happening. And that plot twist at the end was mind blowing!! I did not expect that at all!
Yes, I highly recommend this one!
February 24, 2026
The eye catching cover and title for I Don't Wish You Well by Jumata Emill made me curious. You can say curiosity killed the cat, because Pryce Cummings, a podcaster and aspiring journalist, starts his own investigation into Moss Pointe, Louisiana's Trojan mask killings and someone wants to keep the secrets buried. Did they really catch the killer? There are many who believe they had convicted an innocent man, and the deeper Pryce dug, the more he is convinced they got it wrong.
Moss Pointe is a small town with small minded people. Church and football were worshiped. Being gay in a racist town had Pryce struggling to keep his sexuality secret, at least until he left for college, where he felt free to explore.
Pryce gets help from an unlikely source, free spirited Izzy. He wears his gayness in the open. Pryce slowly begins to understand what he has sacrificed to keep his secret.
"That paranoia hasn't drained you yet? God, I felt suffocated under it when I lived here."
Halfway through the pace picked up. Bodies fell and secrets were exposed. All the questions raised by vigilante justice arise. I love thought provoking books, and I Don't Wish You Well by Jumata Emill had me wondering...what would I do if I walked a mile in someone's shoes?
My thanks go out to NetGalley and Delacorte Press for the opportunity to read I Don't Wish You Well by Jumata Emill.
See more at http://www.fundinmental.com
Moss Pointe is a small town with small minded people. Church and football were worshiped. Being gay in a racist town had Pryce struggling to keep his sexuality secret, at least until he left for college, where he felt free to explore.
Pryce gets help from an unlikely source, free spirited Izzy. He wears his gayness in the open. Pryce slowly begins to understand what he has sacrificed to keep his secret.
"That paranoia hasn't drained you yet? God, I felt suffocated under it when I lived here."
Halfway through the pace picked up. Bodies fell and secrets were exposed. All the questions raised by vigilante justice arise. I love thought provoking books, and I Don't Wish You Well by Jumata Emill had me wondering...what would I do if I walked a mile in someone's shoes?
My thanks go out to NetGalley and Delacorte Press for the opportunity to read I Don't Wish You Well by Jumata Emill.
See more at http://www.fundinmental.com
February 1, 2026
4.5! Wow what a deep and incredible story. My first by this author and definitely not my last. Police corruption, black male sexuality, small town murders.. whew!
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!
February 1, 2026
I just finished I Don’t Wish You Well, and I needed a minute before writing this review.
I went in thinking I was getting a solid YA thriller, and yes, the mystery is good, the pacing is tight, and the twists absolutely worked! But that is not why this book hit me the way it did.
This story follows Pryce, a college freshman who goes back to his small Louisiana hometown to investigate a series of murders everyone swears were already solved. Four teenage boys. Star football players. A town that decided their “truth” was easier to live with than justice. (The themes alone let me know from the jump that I was in for a ride.)
Watching Pryce dig into this case felt heavy. Not just because of the danger, but because of what it cost him emotionally. He is navigating his identity, his family, and a community that makes it very clear who gets protected and who gets blamed.
This book talks about toxic masculinity, football culture, racism, homophobia, police accountability, and the pressure to stay quiet to keep the peace. And none of it feels thrown in. Throw in underlying tones of a mom protecting her son at all costs and the damage the church can cause when they hide behind the Bible….WHOOO BOY! It all feels real. Painfully real.
There were moments I had to pause because I was angry. Moments I felt anxious. Moments that just made my chest hurt.
I listened to this on audio, and the narration made it even more intense. It felt like a true crime podcast unfolding in real time. The mixed media delivery added another deep layer to this story. Every emotion landed. I would to see more of Pryce. This could easily be a series!
This is one of those books that reminds you why stories matter. It challenges you. It sits with you. It does not let you look away, even in the uncomfortable moments. I definitely didn’t expect to cry from a suspense novel, but this story pulled so many emotions out of me!
Five stars. Easily. If you want a thriller that makes you feel something, this is it. Everyone needs to read this book!
I went in thinking I was getting a solid YA thriller, and yes, the mystery is good, the pacing is tight, and the twists absolutely worked! But that is not why this book hit me the way it did.
This story follows Pryce, a college freshman who goes back to his small Louisiana hometown to investigate a series of murders everyone swears were already solved. Four teenage boys. Star football players. A town that decided their “truth” was easier to live with than justice. (The themes alone let me know from the jump that I was in for a ride.)
Watching Pryce dig into this case felt heavy. Not just because of the danger, but because of what it cost him emotionally. He is navigating his identity, his family, and a community that makes it very clear who gets protected and who gets blamed.
This book talks about toxic masculinity, football culture, racism, homophobia, police accountability, and the pressure to stay quiet to keep the peace. And none of it feels thrown in. Throw in underlying tones of a mom protecting her son at all costs and the damage the church can cause when they hide behind the Bible….WHOOO BOY! It all feels real. Painfully real.
There were moments I had to pause because I was angry. Moments I felt anxious. Moments that just made my chest hurt.
I listened to this on audio, and the narration made it even more intense. It felt like a true crime podcast unfolding in real time. The mixed media delivery added another deep layer to this story. Every emotion landed. I would to see more of Pryce. This could easily be a series!
This is one of those books that reminds you why stories matter. It challenges you. It sits with you. It does not let you look away, even in the uncomfortable moments. I definitely didn’t expect to cry from a suspense novel, but this story pulled so many emotions out of me!
Five stars. Easily. If you want a thriller that makes you feel something, this is it. Everyone needs to read this book!
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.
March 4, 2026
Mini Audiobook Review: 3.5 - Thank you so much to PRH Audio #PRHAudioPartner for the free ALC!
This book is out now!
I first read Jumata Emill a few years ago with his debut Black Queen which I loved! I need to go back and read his last book but he recently released this one and knew I had to give it a listen. I thought this book started off really strong. I was immediately pulled into the story and was able to complete pretty much the first half of the book in one setting. But then it started to get a little muddy and I was losing track as to who was who. Pryce was such a smart kid who had such good intentions but was opening something up that the town felt like was closed. But Pryce was just so sure that Deuce did not commit the crimes that were put against him leaving the real killer possibly still out there.
I will say I was not expecting the revelation that ended up coming out towards the end. There was just a lot happening in this! And this poor town had so much happening and I was happy that Pryce stuck to his gun with knowing that something wasn't right. He learned a lot over the course of this including learning more about himself which is always a positive.
I read this one via audio and there was a full cast involved: André Santana, Erin Spencer, Matt Godfrey, Angel Pean and Aaron Goodson. I believe Andre was the main narrator and the narrators must have seamlessly interchanged because I had not even noticed when the narrator changed. Unless it was just towards the end when there was more mixed media involved? Either way Andre was great as the lead narrator! Their voice felt age appropriate and it kept me engaged.
I do want to still read his prior work and looking forward to his next release!
This book is out now!
I first read Jumata Emill a few years ago with his debut Black Queen which I loved! I need to go back and read his last book but he recently released this one and knew I had to give it a listen. I thought this book started off really strong. I was immediately pulled into the story and was able to complete pretty much the first half of the book in one setting. But then it started to get a little muddy and I was losing track as to who was who. Pryce was such a smart kid who had such good intentions but was opening something up that the town felt like was closed. But Pryce was just so sure that Deuce did not commit the crimes that were put against him leaving the real killer possibly still out there.
I will say I was not expecting the revelation that ended up coming out towards the end. There was just a lot happening in this! And this poor town had so much happening and I was happy that Pryce stuck to his gun with knowing that something wasn't right. He learned a lot over the course of this including learning more about himself which is always a positive.
I read this one via audio and there was a full cast involved: André Santana, Erin Spencer, Matt Godfrey, Angel Pean and Aaron Goodson. I believe Andre was the main narrator and the narrators must have seamlessly interchanged because I had not even noticed when the narrator changed. Unless it was just towards the end when there was more mixed media involved? Either way Andre was great as the lead narrator! Their voice felt age appropriate and it kept me engaged.
I do want to still read his prior work and looking forward to his next release!
January 19, 2026
10/10 no notes. Oh my god, THIS BOOK. I absolutely loved The Black Queen so I was really excited to read this one and just WOW. It hooked me right from the first sentence and the excitement didn’t stop until I was done. I absolutely loved Pryce as our MC. I liked seeing him peel back the layers in his hometown while also finding the strength to be who he is, no matter what. Every single time I thought I knew exactly where the story was going, another twist was thrown in and it was a RIDE. It is a heavy book, dealing with homophobia, sexual abuse and murder, but everything was done with so much care. I think fans of true crime, especially true crime podcasts, will really enjoy this one and I can’t wait to read what Emill writes next!
Thank you to Delacorte Press for the digital reader’s copy!
Thank you to Delacorte Press for the digital reader’s copy!
February 10, 2026
A powerful YA murder mystery that follows Pryce Cummings, a gay Black teen investigative podcaster who decides to look into the Trojan Mask murders that took place in his Louisiana home town five years ago.
Assisted by another Black gay man who was a few years old than Pryce, the two dig up new evidence that points to the possibility of new suspects. This book tackles tough topics from racism, homophobia, date rape and more and is perfect for fans of books like A good girls guide to murder.
It was twisty, compelling and great on audio with a full cast. Jumata Emill continues to be an author to watch and read for me! Many thanks to @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
Assisted by another Black gay man who was a few years old than Pryce, the two dig up new evidence that points to the possibility of new suspects. This book tackles tough topics from racism, homophobia, date rape and more and is perfect for fans of books like A good girls guide to murder.
It was twisty, compelling and great on audio with a full cast. Jumata Emill continues to be an author to watch and read for me! Many thanks to @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
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