Promise Boys

Have you ever been at a school where not just you but the entire school abhorred the school principal? There is no “pal” with Principal Moore who runs the D.C. high school with an iron clad fist and increasingly erratic behavior. You want him to go down! Scorched earth! Or so that’s just what you think and what you do are two totally different things, isn’t it? What happens when you are blamed for his murder?

This YA murder-mystery centers around three students who become the prime suspects: J.B.,Trey, and Ramón. Told in multiple p.o.v., we get a close up of their background and how they came to the academy. We see the injustice of the social system when it comes to racism, lower income families and the corruption of the system. I loved that the author does not sugar coat it.

Chapters are short and they pull you in. A fast and compelling read that will have you up all night wanting to finish.

I did find some questions that were left unanswered such as what did Ramon ask of Ever? What was the real story behind Mrs. Hall’s pregnancy?

I would disagree with the book being labeled “thriller” because the plot centers around the three boys where the murder already happened and they are trying to piece it together and solve it. It is a YA Mystery. I’m not giving away the spoiler being someone gets murdered only because it states so, on page 1.

I will give you this spoiler: pay attention to those “nobodies” who can blend in and not be noticed.

Definitely a recommended read!

Writing Style: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Pace: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Intrigue: 5/5
Enjoyment: 5/5

Triggers: ⚠️ racism; physical punishment; bullying

Well-written.

probably not going to finish

Great story. Loved the format. Wish we had had a little more information at the end, felt rushed.