The Scammer

Against the wishes of her parents, Jordyn goes to Frazier, a historical Black University in Washington, D.C., to study pre-law. Once there, she is accepted by her roommates, and she feels she belongs. That all changes when her roommate Vanessa's brother Devonte shows up. Devonte is charismatic and at first seems caring, but hides a secret. When Jordyn's roommate Kammy goes missing and dark rumors circulate, Jordyn finds herself worried not only for what's happening around her, but her own safety.

What worked: Wowza, once again, Jackson gives readers a riveting story. This time, it's a historical Black University, where the ex-con brother of a roommate moves in with tragic results. Think of the recent Netflix dark drama DEVIL ON CAMPUS, based on the true story of Larry Ray, a college freshman's father who moves himself into her dorm and controls all of them.

Jordyn's desire to fit in with her roommates and show her parents she was right in her decision to go to Frazier instead of Yale rang very true. This story is so realistic in its portrayal of freshmen at a new university, away from families and in a new environment. Jordyn experiences excitement from attending her first party, spending time with friends, and going to a college where she feels seen. That all quickly changes with the arrival of Devonte. It doesn't hurt that he's good-looking, seems caring, and well-versed in the plight of Black Americans. Jordyn's warning bells go off as she sees red flags with his increasingly abusive demands. But she longs for the friendship/sisterhood of her roommates.

What really works with this story is its authenticity in its portrayal of not only the benefits of universities but also the predators out there. This story brought back my own memories of my first year away at a private university, where I struggled to fit in and encountered those who took advantage of that.

Nick, the lone White guy at Frazier, has his own secrets, and he sees the red flags. His friendship with Jordyn helps her survive an otherwise terrifying dorm experience. There's mega twists and turns throughout this engaging tale.

Psychological terror with nail-biting suspense that keeps readers riveted until the last page.