Still Waters

Debut author Parsons turns in an edgy thriller about a teenager whose propensity for violence gets him caught up in deadly matters. Jason just wants to save up enough money so he and his sister can escape their abusive father. When a rich, popular classmate, Michael, offers Jason $50 a day to hang out with the in crowd and act as muscle, Jason takes the deal, even though he knows he’s selling out. But Michael is involved in some shady stuff, and matters quickly escalate into open violence, armed robbery, and possibly murder. Jason is in too far to back out, and he’s also falling for Michael’s sultry girlfriend, Cyndra. The result is a dark, fast-paced, and violent crime drama about desperation and revenge that explores a complex moral dynamic. The plot is a little too Byzantine for its own good—some twists are unmemorable, and the climax borders on chaotic—but Jason’s flaws and rough edges help create a rounded, dimensional character, and his narrative is stark and compelling. Ages 14–up. Agent: Jodi Reamer, Writers House. (Apr.)