Queen B’s Decree: I love a good drag queen show so I dove into this one.
This had a great mix of Misty (our lead!) wanting to solve the murder of her drag queen mentor Lady Lady, while also dealing with the struggles of suspecting her fellow queens and friends. When Lady Lady’s murder coincides with the theft of an expensive, vintage gown, and the police seem to care more about the dress, Misty is determined to solve the murder.
I think what was done really well here was show the impact being in drag can be on someone’s personality. While not in drag, Misty is actually Joe, a nonbinary accountant that is quiet and unassuming, almost meek. But when they turn into Misty, she has confidence and grit. So while most of the story did focus on the mystery, I really enjoyed getting into Joe/Misty’s head and understand how they were feeling.
Also I love that Joe really just watched old crime shows and went after the investigation, no holds barred. I feel the same way—I’ve seen so many episodes of Forensic Files, surely I’d be able to solve a crime!
I can’t resist a murder mystery where I don’t guess the murderer or motive, so I was hooked onto this one until the end. Add in the LGBTQ+ characters and I’m sold. And lastly, may we all have a partner as supportive as Miles, praise him.
Book: Murder in the Dressing Room by Holly Stars
Series: A Misty Devine Mystery #1
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Plot Devices/Tropes: LGBTQ+