Guess Again (2025) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

The narrative explores the concept of hybristophilia through Eugenia Morgan, whose romantic obsession with the serial killer Francis Bernard drives her actions. While explicit sexual encounters are largely off-page, the book contains highly suggestive descriptions of Eugenia's physical longing and the erotic nature of the letters she sends to the prison. She often fantasizes about intimacy with Francis, blurring the lines between romantic devotion and a fetish for his violent crimes. The psychological nature of…

Violence is a central element of the plot, frequently depicted with clinical and disturbing detail reminiscent of classic psychological thrillers. Readers encounter graphic descriptions of Francis Bernard’s past serial murders and the visceral physical injuries sustained by characters during a high-stakes prison escape. The abduction of Callie Jones is a recurring trauma, with sequences describing the fear and physical struggle involved in her disappearance. Throughout the novel, there are scenes of physical…

The dialogue is gritty and realistic for a police procedural, containing frequent and strong profanity. The word 'f--k' and its variations appear regularly, used both as an expression of stress during investigations and as a component of the killer's manipulative speech. Other expletives like 's--t,' 'bastard,' 'asshole,' and 'goddamn' are peppered throughout the text. The intensity of the language increases during high-tension scenes, such as the prison break and the final confrontation. However, the use of…

Substance use is present but serves primarily as a background element to illustrate character stress and the reality of dealing with trauma. Ethan Hall is shown using medication to manage the symptoms of his severe PTSD, which is discussed in the context of his former role in the child crime unit. Several characters engage in social drinking, such as having beer or wine at home, but there are also scenes where drinking becomes heavy as a coping mechanism for the pressure of the case. In Chapter 29, characters…

The novel centers on the profound and lasting impact of childhood trauma, specifically focusing on the abduction of a minor and the grief of the families left behind. It delves into the dark psychological allure that sociopathic individuals can have over others, exploring why someone like Eugenia would be drawn to a monster. The weight of cold cases and the failures of the justice system provide a somber backdrop to Ethan Hall's personal struggle with guilt and PTSD. Manipulation is a key theme, as the antagonist…