Jack Ori does a fantastic job in writing this book and worked as a strong start to the Cedarwood Campus Mystery series. This had all the elements of what I was looking for and enjoyed, it worked as a mystery genre novel as I hoped for and was glad I was able to read this. It left me wanting to read more in this series and from Jack Ori.

The LGBTQ+, social, and political subject matter woven basket of subject matter to grip ones attention.

This thriller began at a great pace as Bobby called into CJ's podcast about his missing sister. As the story continued the thriller slowed down, which caused a lapse in interest. As it neared the end the pace/ interest picked up with a ending of realizations..

Thank you to netgalley for the ARC.

If The Hardy boys and Nancy drew went to college in the late 00s, this would be in.
Oh and it has LGBTQ+ elements,

CJ “Ceej” is stunned when a young boy named Bobby calls into the podcast. His words are ominous, but powerful. “Ellies missing.” CJ is only a reporter, and can only do so much. But when CJ and their best friend Ken find Ellie’s body, they must do what they can to see the killer brought to justice. But could one of CJs closest friends be part of the crime they’re determined to solve?

Carolin keen for adults is how I’d describe this book. It has mystery, intrigue, and romance, all in one plot. And while the book is on the shorter side for a thriller, that doesn’t imply it’s not full of twists and turns each chapter.

For me, I felt like the beginning was a tad slow but it did create some great tension. If you’re a fan of hulus only murders in the building I think this would be the perfect read, even though everyone is early college age.
CJ is also written in what I felt was a realistic depiction of a young person grappling with their sexuality. They have doubts, and sometimes those doubt can hinder them, just like a living human.


Content warning: kidnapping, childhood trauma, police racism, mentions of drug abuse and rehab.