The Black Queen
The Black Queen by Jumata Emill is a young adult fiction novel published by Random House Children’s Books on December 19, 2023. This 416-page thriller unfolds the tragic story of Nova Albright, who was poised to become the first Black homecoming queen at Lovett High before her life was cut short on coronation night. Her body is discovered in an old slave cemetery, prompting a gripping investigation that reveals the complexities of privilege and prejudice within the community.
As the narrative progresses, readers follow Duchess Simmons, Nova’s best friend, who is determined to uncover the truth behind Nova’s murder. With her father serving as the first Black police captain in Lovett, Duchess faces the challenge of confronting systemic biases while suspecting Tinsley McArthur, the main suspect and a symbol of privilege. The story delves into themes of social dynamics, race, and the lengths one will go to seek justice, making it a compelling exploration of mystery and suspense.
Official synopsis Publisher
Nova Albright was going to be the first Black homecoming queen at Lovett High—but now she’s dead. Murdered on coronation night. Fans of One of Us Is Lying and The Other Black Girl will love this unputdownable thriller.
Nova Albright, the first Black homecoming queen at Lovett High, is dead. Murdered the night of her coronation, her body found the next morning in the old slave cemetery she spent her weekends rehabilitating.
Tinsley McArthur was supposed to be queen. Not only is she beautiful, wealthy, and white, it’s her legacy—her grandmother, her mother, and even her sister wore the crown before her. Everyone in Lovett knows Tinsley would do anything to carry on the McArthur tradition.
No one is more certain of that than Duchess Simmons, Nova’s best friend. Duchess’s father is the first Black police captain in Lovett. For Duchess, Nova’s crown was more than just a win for Nova. It was a win for all the Black kids. Now her best friend is dead, and her father won’t face the fact that the main suspect is right in front of him. Duchess is convinced that Tinsley killed Nova—and that Tinsley is privileged enough to think she can get away with it. But Duchess’s father seems to be doing what he always does: fall behind the blue line. Which means that the white girl is going to walk.
Duchess is determined to prove Tinsley’s guilt. And to do that, she’ll have to get close to her.
But Tinsley has an agenda, too.
Everyone loved Nova. And sometimes, love is exactly what gets you killed.
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