A Darker Mischief BY Derek Milman

In this gripping dark academia tale that blends the allure of The Honeys with the intrigue of The Secret History, Cal Ware, a queer teen from Mississippi, embarks on a transformative journey at Essex Academy, an elite New England boarding school.

Winning a scholarship to Essex represents Cal's chance to escape his past and redefine himself. However, the reality of Essex proves harsh: he faces disdain from classmates for his modest background, mocked for his accent and lack of worldly experience. Just as he contemplates returning home, Cal discovers the existence of a secretive society that holds the keys to social power and prestige at Essex.

Despite feeling out of place, Cal finds an unexpected ally in Luke Kim, a charming and enigmatic figure who becomes his guide into the world of Essex's elite circles. As they navigate the allure and dangers of the society's initiation rituals, Cal also navigates his first experience of love, drawn to Luke in ways that both thrill and unsettle him.

Yet, as Cal delves deeper into the society's mysteries, he uncovers darker truths and increasingly perilous challenges. Loyalties are tested, and Cal must confront the limits of his ambition and the sacrifices he's willing to make to protect those he cares about. Amidst the glamour and intrigue, Essex Academy reveals its shadows, forcing Cal to question who he can trust and how far he's willing to go to preserve his newfound place in this privileged yet treacherous world.

In a narrative that brims with suspense and emotional depth, Essex Secrets explores themes of identity, ambition, and the price of acceptance in a world where appearances are often deceiving and loyalty comes with a steep cost.