Dark academia gets a heart and a bigger brain in this fast-paced mystery. The story is told from the perspective of three boys at a prep school who are suspected of killing their principal. Their narratives are shared in the days before, of, and shortly following the murder. We learn a bit about each kid's back story, motives, and reaction to the killing.
The social commentary is well done but doesn't overshadow the mystery. The author makes it easy to understand the perspectives of everyone and why nothing in this DC school is as black and white as it appears to be. The undercurrent of fear and distrust in the kids' daily lives is well portrayed. He shows why there is no such thing as an easy decision, or a bad kid, or a clear way out in these circumstances.
Most of the characters are likable. None is thoroughly developed, but it's a short book with a lot of ground to cover.
The social commentary is well done but doesn't overshadow the mystery. The author makes it easy to understand the perspectives of everyone and why nothing in this DC school is as black and white as it appears to be. The undercurrent of fear and distrust in the kids' daily lives is well portrayed. He shows why there is no such thing as an easy decision, or a bad kid, or a clear way out in these circumstances.
Most of the characters are likable. None is thoroughly developed, but it's a short book with a lot of ground to cover.