THE SCAMMER

A first-year college student’s experience turns into a nightmare when her roommate’s brother moves in.

Inspired by a real incident at Sarah Lawrence College, Jackson pens a gripping story about mental manipulation and predators disguised as positive influences. Against her parents’ wishes, Jordyn Monroe defers her Yale acceptance to attend Washington, D.C.’s Frazier University; she has a meaningful reason for wanting to choose an institution that’s among the most well-known Historically Black Colleges and Universities. After attending mostly white schools in the suburbs of Westport, Connecticut, Jordyn is excited to no longer be the only Black person in class. She and her three suitemates immediately bond and start thinking of themselves as sisters. When one girl’s older brother needs a place to stay after being released from prison—she says he was framed for credit card fraud—the others immediately welcome him. Devonte is smart, charming, and handsome, and he shares interesting stories about working in the hip-hop industry. He also offers the girls guidance and encourages them to expand their minds. Soon, however, he starts controlling their every move, and Jordyn can’t see a way out. Jackson’s portrayal of Devonte’s subtle brainwashing, leading up to a wholly unanticipated twist, is excellent, although the story wraps up a bit too quickly after the big reveal. The setting is intriguing and adds appeal, although readers may wish for more details about how HBCUs differ from predominantly white institutions.

Engaging and frighteningly realistic; a suspense-filled winner.