They Want Us Dead

A group of white-cued teenage content creators must work together to survive in this uneven locked-room mystery from Montblanc (Pride or Die). Gender nonconforming high schooler Sam Tombs is both thrilled and anxious to attend a weeklong retreat for influencers who once assisted in solving real crimes, as when Sam identified a John Doe. Their feelings are further muddled when they learn that one of the announced guests has been swapped out for Sam’s online rival, Dylan. As Sam settles into their accommodations at a secluded mountain mansion in southern California, a heavy rainstorm descends, bringing with it several unsettling discoveries: retreat staffers have absconded to a separate location, the bridge leading to the main road is flooded, and one of the participants is found dead at the bottom of the mansion’s impressive staircase. When Sam is later injured while entering a hot tub—the water is revealed to be mixed with corrosive acid—the group clues into the mounting danger. Worsening weather conditions, downed communication services, and vicious infighting frequently derail the teens’ attempts to uncover the details of their circumstances. Though scattershot plotting results in a lukewarm mystery, Sam’s emotionally intelligent narration as well as his endearing developing relationship with Dylan offer bright spots throughout. Ages 13–up. Agent: Natalie Lakosil, Looking Glass Literary. (Apr.)