Emerald’s Fiercest Entertainer is a weekly drag competition set in Chicago, designed to showcase the best drag talent. The drag queens comprised of this competitive show come from different walks of life, each with their struggles and dreams making the eight-week-long contest a challenging and emotionally charged experience not only for the participants but for those who run it as well. Throughout the eight-week competition, these queens are not only competing for the title but also pushing themselves to become the best version of themselves. Each week is a test of their talent, resilience, and ability to grow both personally and professionally. The stakes are high, with fame, glory, and the coveted crown on the line, but more importantly, each contestant is on a journey of self-expression and self-acceptance, aiming to leave their mark on the Chicago drag scene.
Zachary Ryan grew up in a black-and-white box in Maryland, before moving to Chicago to start a new life. There, he found that he was accepted for his misfit status—and learned that it’s perfectly normal to spend your twenties feeling lost and confused.
After a disastrous sexual encounter, Ryan stumbled on a group of true friends, or “soul cluster,” that he connected with. Through his writing, he hopes to help other broken souls out there find comfort amid the chaos.
Spotlight by Zachary Ryan offers an energetic and emotionally layered look into the world of competitive drag performance set against the vibrant backdrop of Chicago.
Centered around the high-stakes competition Emerald’s Fiercest Entertainer, the novel follows a diverse group of drag performers as they battle through an intense eight week contest for the coveted crown. But beyond the glamour, costumes, and stage performances, Ryan explores the deeply personal journeys of the contestants each navigating their own struggles, ambitions, and desire for self expression.
What makes Spotlight compelling is its focus on transformation. Week after week, the queens are pushed not only to showcase their talent but also to grow emotionally and professionally. The competitive environment heightens the drama, yet it also highlights themes of resilience, identity, and acceptance within the drag community.
Ambitious in scope and rich with character driven storytelling, Spotlight captures both the spectacle of performance and the personal courage it takes to step into the light and claim one’s voice.