Deadstream

In this original paranormal horror novel by Romasco-Moore (Krazyland), a teen witnesses the live murder of her favorite online streamer. Pansexual 17-year-old Teresa—known online as Replay—idolizes streamer Brick, who inspired her to start making her own content. After surviving a fatal car crash a year ago, Teresa, feeling too afraid to interact with the outside world, began online schooling and turned to her community of fellow queer streamers, the Rainbros, for support. While she’s watching Brick stream, she notices a creepy figure in the background and records a clip. When Teresa posts the recording, Brick’s feed goes dark, setting into motion an unsettling series of events. As other streamers are attacked, seemingly by the same shadowy entity, Teresa endeavors to solve the mystery before the figure comes after those she loves—or Teresa herself. Ample streamer lingo appears throughout, setting the scene and tone of this intelligently cultivated thriller. Teresa’s grappling with the trauma of her accident adds a layer of claustrophobic tension to the insular goings-on; readers will root for Teresa as the protagonist unearths an untapped well of smarts and bravery in her bid for survival. Cover art depicts Teresa with pale skin. Ages 14–up. (Apr.)