The Scammer

A Black college freshman and her roommates find themselves caught in the web of a charismatic but dangerous older man in this nail-biting thriller by Jackson (The Weight of Blood). After spending her childhood attending primarily white private schools, Jordyn is excited to find a sense of belonging at Frazier University, a historically Black college where she makes fast friends with her suitemates Loren, Kammy, and Vanessa. Then, shortly into the school year, Vanessa’s brother Devonte, in his 30s and recently released from prison, comes to visit “for a few days.” At first, his presence is welcome; he cooks for the girls and gives them advice. But soon, his manipulation of the teens and their actions begins to spiral out of control. It’s up to Jordyn, with help from her crush, a white fraternity member named Nick, to break Devonte’s hold on her and her friends. Jackson’s signature chilling prose presents action-filled and fast-paced plotting rife with tension as Jordyn attempts to puzzle out the mystery behind Devonte’s endgame while navigating issues of personal identity. Jordyn and Nick’s budding romance—and the obstacles it unearths as it unfolds amid the HBCU setting and the overarching conflict—adds a layer of complexity to this satisfying offering. Ages 14–up. Agent: Jenny Bent, Bent Agency. (Oct.)