- The Black Queen
- by Jumata Emill
- Narrated by Angel Pean and Erin Spencer
- Publisher: Listening Library/Peguin Random House
- Publication Date: January 31, 2023
- ISBN: 9780593667699
Nova Albright is the first Black homecoming queen of Lovett High. Murdered on coronation night and found in a cemetery she was helping advocate for funds to maintain, the investigation to find her killer creates shockwaves and turns relationships upside down in the town. Among a cast of characters, Nova’s best friend Duchess Simmons, and her competitor for homecoming queen, Tinsley McArthur, stand out as their independent desires for justice join forces to see who can solve the case. Race, history, trauma, and family secrets unfold in this modern-day murder mystery.
The alternating voices add depth to the story and keep listeners in suspense. Additional chimes and bells mimic the high school setting. Jumata Emill’s criminal journalism experience builds the fast-paced twists and turns of a suspenseful thriller. Angel Pean and Erin Spencer bring excitement, anger, and sadness with their tone, volume, and emotion.
Mystery readers who deep dive into thriller and social themes like structural racism or readers who enjoyed One of the Good Ones by Maika and Maritza Mouilite, One of Us is Lying series inspired by Karen M. McManus’ novel or Bad Things Happen Here by Rebecca Barrow, will have a compelling time with The Black Queen by Jumata Emill.
-Ileana Pulu
Other Nominated Titles
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