Book Referees is thrilled to be part of the Hear Our Voices blog tour for Pritty and Togetha by Keith F. Miller Jr.!
These two beautifully written novels explore love, identity, and the deep connections we have with our communities and ourselves. With lyrical storytelling and powerful themes of resilience, justice, and self-discovery, Pritty and Togetha take readers on an unforgettable journey through the complexities of love, family, and fighting for what matters most.
For today’s blog tour stop, I’m excited to share my reviews for both books, along with a specially curated playlist inspired by the emotional depth and energy of Pritty and Togetha. If you love stories that blend tenderness with tension, celebrate Black boyhood in all its beauty, and challenge the meaning of strength, these books are must-reads!
Pritty – Book 1 Playlist
From the tender moments of first love to the looming dangers in their world, these songs embody the emotional depth of Pritty.
-
- SZA – “Saturn”
-
- Tyler, The Creator ft. Charlie Wilson – “Boyfriend”
-
- Mahalia – “Sober”
-
- Mark Ronson ft. Daniel Caesar – “The Hill”
-
- The Weeknd – “A Tale By Quincy”
Togetha – Book 2 Playlist
As the stakes rise and Jay and Leroy face new dangers, their fight for justice is reflected in these tracks.
-
- Doja Cat – “Paint The Town Red”
-
- Kendrick Lamar – “HUMBLE.”
-
- Fousheé – “Deep End”
-
- Giveon – “Like I Want You”
-
- Baby Keem ft. Brent Faiyaz – “Lost Souls”
Keith F. Miller Jr.’s Pritty is a stunning and poetic coming-of-age novel that beautifully captures the vulnerability of Black boyhood, love, and the weight of legacy. Jay, a quiet and introspective teen, has always felt like he fades into the background—until Leroy steps into his life, seeing him in a way no one else has. Their connection is tender yet electric, unfolding in a world where love and violence coexist, and the past refuses to stay buried.
Miller’s writing is immersive, lyrical, and deeply emotional, painting Savannah in rich detail while exploring themes of masculinity, community, and self-acceptance. Jay and Leroy’s love story is soft yet resilient, standing against the backdrop of growing tensions, family secrets, and a murder that threatens to pull them apart. The novel doesn’t just tell a story—it breathes it, making you feel every stolen glance, every whispered fear, and every moment of joy.
A must-read for fans of contemporary Black queer stories, Pritty is a love letter to boys who feel unseen and a powerful reminder that softness is not weakness—it’s strength.
Reviewed by: Orsayor
Keith F. Miller Jr. does it again with Togetha, delivering a sequel that’s just as poetic, powerful, and gut-wrenching as Pritty. This book isn’t just a follow-up—it’s a deeper dive into love, resilience, and the fight to hold onto both. Miller’s writing has this way of making you feel everything, from the quiet moments of intimacy to the weight of history pressing down on every decision.
What I love most is how Togetha never lets up. The tension, the emotions, the stakes—it’s all dialed up in a way that feels real and raw. The relationships are complicated, the love is tested, and every choice feels like it matters. This story doesn’t just ask what justice looks like; it asks what it costs. And whew, the way it all unfolds will have you holding your breath.
Miller gives us a novel that feels alive—urgent, messy, and deeply moving. If you thought Pritty was an emotional ride, Togetha takes it to another level. A must-read, period.
Reviewed by: Orsayor
