Jumia Books The Understudy: A Novel by Morgan Richter

The Understudy by Morgan Richter is a stylish, suspenseful novel that peels back the velvet curtain of the theater world to reveal a tale of ambition, obsession, and hidden truths. Set in the charged atmosphere of a stage production, the story follows a mysterious figure lurking just out of sight—an understudy whose role extends far beyond the script.

Richter crafts a narrative that is equal parts psychological drama and noir mystery, exploring the fragile boundaries between performance and reality. The protagonist, often overlooked and underestimated, begins to unravel the secrets of the cast and crew, exposing rivalries, betrayals, and long-buried scandals. As the tension builds, the understudy’s own identity becomes increasingly unstable, raising questions about who they really are—and what they’re willing to do to claim the spotlight.

Themes explored include:

The psychological toll of anonymity and ambition

The performative nature of identity and truth

Power dynamics in creative spaces

The danger of stepping into someone else’s role

With its striking cover art and theatrical symbolism, The Understudy appeals to fans of literary thrillers, character-driven mysteries, and stories set in the arts. Richter’s prose is sharp and evocative, blending dark humor with emotional depth.

This novel is ideal for:

Readers who love backstage intrigue and psychological suspense

Artists and performers drawn to stories about identity and reinvention

East African creatives exploring themes of visibility and self-expression

French-speaking audiences interested in noir fiction and dramatic tension

The Understudy is a haunting meditation on what it means to be seen—and what it costs to be remembered.