Under the Black Waves: True Crime in the NFL

by Pierce De Bauche

In this haunting true crime story, the tragic 2021 downfall of retired NFL star Phillip Adams unfolds in Rock Hill, South Carolina. After he committed one of the worst acts of violence in NFL history, the sheriff’s office and FBI hunt for answers, yet mysteries remain unsolved. This poignant narrative reconstructs the events, probing the devastating effects of CTE on the human mind and soul. Evoking In Cold Blood’s lyrical depth, it exposes football’s hidden toll. Perfect for fans of NFL dramas and literary true crime.

126 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 31, 2025

Reviews

[Ben · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

I’m someone who enjoys true crime documentaries but not someone who follows the NFL - and I’m happy to confirm any unfamiliarity with the subject material didn’t stop me enjoying this book whatsoever. I was also unaware of the 2021 Rock Hill shooting though from my brief internet search to discover more it seems well researched and accurate.
As for the book, I enjoyed how it focused on the human element of the tragedy from Philip’s side, specifically the family that was left behind. It slowly built to the tragic crescendo of the story; and laid the foundations for what would both drive Philip to doing what he did and how.

My criticisms would be that we see little of the aftermath of the event. I think given the brain injuries sustained during his NFL career seemingly drove Philip’s actions, some time exploring that more afterwards would have brought the narrative more full circle, especially with the focus on “black waves” he experienced throughout. The writing is generally fine if a little stiff in places, though the author points out the ethnicity of almost every character which was odd to me. Knowing so little of the tragedy beforehand, I initially assumed it was somehow racially motivated so I’m left confused by this descriptive choice now the book is over.

Overall I think any true crime fan will appreciate this book; especially if they have an interest in the NFL.

[Abhay Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

⚫️Under the Black Waves is a truly captivating and deeply human look at a tragedy that shocked the nation, making it one of the most haunting pieces of contemporary true crime literature. Pierce De Bauche tackles the 2021 Phillip Adams case not with sensationalism, but with a kind of literary respect, skillfully blending detailed investigative work with a poignant psychological portrait of a man overwhelmed by both personal struggles and systemic issues.

⚫️What sets this book apart is the emotional accuracy with which De Bauche reconstructs the disintegration of Adams's life. Each chapter draws readers further into the intricate dynamics of professional success, the isolation that follows a sports career, and the devastating impact of CTE. Instead of providing simple answers, the author bravely sits with the uncertainties: the lingering questions from the sheriff's office, the FBI's search for motives, and the haunting silences that remain. This careful approach gives the narrative a chilling echo reminiscent of In Cold Blood.

⚫️The writing is immersive and impactful. De Bauche vividly depicts Rock Hill, South Carolina, crafting a rich backdrop for the unfolding tragedy. True crime fans will admire the thoroughness of the investigation, while those interested in the human cost of professional sports will find themselves both shaken and enlightened. This book reveals the hidden toll of football with honesty and empathy; it neither condemns nor excuses but instead sheds light on the complexities involved.

⚫️A rare blend of literary skill, journalistic integrity, and emotional depth, Under the Black Waves is essential reading for anyone concerned about the NFL, mental health in sports, or the delicate line between triumph and tragedy. It’s a story that stays with you long after you turn the last page.

Happy reading ❤️✨

[Aditya Adi · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a fascinating story that explores the triad of fame, injury and mental breakdown with a lot of dimension. The narrative of De Bauche is movie-like, particularly those events when Adams was playing in the NFL. The difference between the shocking moments on the field and his subsequent silence and calm turmoil is dramatic. The description of the effect of CTE is done in a responsible and humane manner. Through the book, one can have a more complete image of the tragedy because it is not only about the crime, but it is also about the decades of pressure that influenced the tragedy. An effective and disturbing read.

[Yati · Rating 5 out of 5]

Under the Black Waves is an emotionally serious and captivating study of the poor fateful end of Phillip Adams. Pierce De Bauche has a genius command of the chilling narrative detail coupled with the profound contemplation of the concealed hazards of professional football. The novel has a constant tension without being cruel to all the affected persons.
It is a real-life crime reconstruction and a ghost story of the destructive force of CTE. This one will not be forgotten by the readers enjoying the investigative stories with the literary background and thrilling.

[Mahima Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a strong combination of a true crime, the history of sports and psychological dean Kamen. In a shocking way, Pierce De Bauche reconstructs the life of Phillip Adams, making the readers follow their talent, increasing instability, and his downfall. The similarities between the victorious moments in the past and the current crisis are clearly traced, which makes the story emotionally involved.
The author approaches the subject of CTE sensitively and asks the required questions concerning the responsibility of the NFL. An enthralling, heartrending, and well researched piece.

[Aarush Tanwar · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author Pierce De Bauche builds a haunting backstory about one of the darkest stories in NFL history. The transition between the youthful work of Adams and the painful end of his life is brilliantly intertwined, which provides an idea of how harmless wounds transform into catastrophic events. It is written vividly and rather cinematic in the scenes of the game and in the suspenseful final chapters. It is a compassionate and truthful book, which is why it is not just a crime story it becomes a reflection on the trauma, identity, and loss.

[Pranav Agrawal · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a strong and extremely disturbing book. De Bauche analyzes the Phillip Adams tragedy in such a way that he is accurate, journalistically, but still has a very emotional heart to the story. The episodes in the career of Adams in the NFL are vividly recreated, and the fall into a mental state is depicted with subtlety.
The book poses some tough questions regarding the price of fame, the price of physical sacrifice, and the injuries that are under wraps and determine the life of athletes.
It is a book worth reading by any true crime enthusiast with a human angle.

[Aditi Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

The tragic spiral of Phillip Adams by Pierce De Bauche is a chilling and well-investigated story. The focus on detail like the tension of the games, and the silence of his later years produces an immersive and chilling effect on the narrative. This is the strength of the book; its balance does not overdramatize; it only aims at learning about the human cost of untreated head trauma. Cogent, captivating, and truly heart-rending, this is a book that people keen on sport or psychology or even true crime must read.

[Om Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pierce De Bauche treats this tragedy with investigative thoroughness and emotionalism. The story is compelling in the introduction chapter, which makes the readers follow the promise of Adams as an athlete and his downfall into darkness. Thematically driven CTE and the invisible price of football is also a valuable addition. The novel is not sensationalistic, but a humane and multi-dimensional study of a fallen life. It is a poignant and upsetting tale that becomes permanent even after the last page.

[Shivani Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Under the Black Waves is a beautifully written chilling true-crime story that is much more than the headlines. Pierce De Bauche recreates the events in a very accurate way, putting readers on the field, in the apartment of Adams and in the inner world of a man who was going down under his own thinking. The writing is effective yet not melodramatic, and the analysis of CTE is well-grounded and informative. It is a cautionary story and at the same time a very human story, a story that makes a lasting impression.

[Sanem · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although the book Under the Black Waves is undoubtedly very powerful, it is the very fact that the author was ready to face some of the unpleasant truths that makes the book the strongest one. Pierce De Bauche does not hesitate to critique the systems that left Phillip Adams behind, but he remains unbiased on the matter.
This book has a solid narrative, good pacing, and the research is clear. It is also interesting despite its weighty theme. One of the most important and provocative reads ever in the true crime genre.

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Under the Black Waves is a thriller mixed with the richness of literary nonfiction. Pierce De Bauche takes the readers behind locker rooms, stadiums, and the silent scenes of loneliness that alludes to the breakdown of Adams. The narration is sympathetic but cold-hearted and sheds light on the darkness of CTE and mental illnesses among elite athletes. The tension and tragedy in each chapter are increasing, so one can not help but look. A reflective, solemn, and very well-woven piece.

[Naitik Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is not a mere true-crime, but a book about the psychological and emotional effects of recurring trauma. Author De Bauche takes the early promise and later torment of Adams in a definitive, at once personal and exploratory way. It is a suggestive writing, even poetic, particularly of the inner world of Adams. The rhythm is great, and the alternations between the timelines increase the effect of the story. Those who enjoy well considered immersive nonfiction will not miss this book.

[Madhukar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Under the Black Waves is a peonizing statement of how an invisible injury can make a life. Pierce De Bauche narrates the life of Phillip Adams in a reflective, almost mournful tone that still haunts the reader even after reading the chapter. The difference between his youthful potential and old age alienation is drawn with painfully clear accuracy.
This book challenges the reader to ponder over what lies behind all the football costs and the instability of the human mind.

[Vini Shahi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provides an insight into the tragic downfall of Phillip Adams in a well-organized manner. Pierce De Bauche presents the events in a very simple and understandable way in which he manages to provide emotional value to the struggles of Adams. The scenes and the changes between his years in the NFL and his last year are crisp and effective.
It is a good true-crime book that describes the effects of CTE without any superfluous drama. Educative, practical and indeed enlightening.

[Manju Kashyap · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even the first pages create the impression of a shadowy feeling present throughout Under the Black Waves. Pierce De Bauche creates a tense atmosphere of creepiness as he presents the disintegration of Phillip Adams. Despite being aware of the end result, the experience is suspenseful and unpredictable. The mental deterioration is brought out in cold-blooded detail. It is a fascinating and moody read as readers can indulge in true crime that is almost a thriller.

[वनराज राणा · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pierce De Bauche treats this touching tale with great sympathy. He does not sensationalize but dwells on the human experience in the tragedy. Phillip Adams is not only a depiction of a former athlete but a man and a son who is struggling with unseen turmoil. The less serious moments become more striking with the help of the soft and humane writing. This book makes the reader cognisant of the emotional burden of CTE in a very human manner.

[Catherine Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an avid reader of True Crime, this book was very well written and very impactful, a story that needs to be told. I highly recommend it, and the cover is my favorite of all to display on my bookcase.