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Photographer Jeremy Edmunds has vanished without a trace. Last known location? Soho.

As the owner of Lady’s Bar, no one knows the city – and its secrets – better than drag queen Misty Divine. So who better to help private detective Sylvester Green follow this missing man’s trail than the Queen of Soho herself?

But no sooner has one mystery landed, than another one takes Misty by surprise.

Because the next day, Sylvester is back. The difference? Yesterday, he was alive and safe. Today, he’s dripping blood onto her doorstep after narrowly escaping an attack on his life.

With danger drawing in, Misty must take Sylvester’s investigation into her perfectly manicured hands. Can she solve the case, and find the missing photographer?

Or will the next crime for Misty to solve be a murder?

380 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 5, 2026

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About the author

Holly Stars

2 books152 followers
Holly Stars is a drag queen comedian and writer. She wrote the hit West End murder mystery play, Death Drop, and the OutFlix series, Holly Stars: Inspirational. She performs stand up comedy and storytelling around the UK.

Holly is the author of the Misty Divine Mystery novels, published worldwide by Penguin Random House. The first in the series, Murder in the Dressing Room, was released in 2025. Missing in Soho is the highly anticipated second installment, published in 2026. Holly also narrates the audiobooks.

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5 stars
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40 (37%)
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14 (12%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
Profile Image for Leo.
5,130 reviews658 followers
Review of advance copy
March 1, 2026
I dont know why its says on goodreads thats its not out yet as I bought it on amazon and got it recently.

Second book in a series and I loved it. Such a good cozy mystery with memorable characters, suspenseful and intruiging mystery and higly entertaining. It does contain homophobic comments and plot from bad characters and other anti languages but its dealt in a good way. Looking forward to see if there will be a third book.
Profile Image for Chloe Pounds.
191 reviews
March 26, 2026
6 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ this book was INCREDIBLE!!! the story felt so in depth and detailed and the plot line was INSANE!!! the pace, the characters, the storyline, the plot line were all IMPECCABLE!! i LOVE how camp this book is!!! it’s full of glitz and glamour and glitter and sequins and the LOVE a crime fighting drag queen!!!
Misty Divine is my FAVOURITE CHARACTER EVER!!!
the first book was SO GOOD!! but this book felt elevated to that it tackled more sensitive and serious topics but it was handled with such sensitivity and with a dash of humour and it was handled so well!!!
i could go on FOREVER about how much i LOVE this book, the series, and the characters but it would take too long!!!! 🤣
i CANNOT recommend this book enough i LOVED every second and i REALLY HOPE there are more books because I’m not ready for Misty Divine to never come back!!!
YOU HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK AND SERIES!!!!
Profile Image for Freya Dale.
304 reviews4 followers
March 1, 2026
There is just something in these books I absolutely love - it is pure escapism. The camp vibes, drag clubs and soho setting is up my street and its the perfect mix of fun camp escapism and touching moments regarding LGBTQ+ issues. Already excited for book 3 in the series! 5 🌟
Profile Image for Danielle MacLeod.
189 reviews4 followers
May 22, 2026
Thanks to netgalley for an ARC of ‘Missing in soho’
4.25 ⭐️ Another Misty Divine mystery and it did not disappoint! This book had me captivated from page 1 and made me want to stay up late just to finish another chapter.

I love how the author starts their books with a big conflict, it draws you in right away. Also Holly stars had me questioning every single person in this book.

Since I already read ‘murder in the dressing room’ I had already felt connected to the characters. And I was super excited to read about them again. I love how the author makes their personalities come to life on the page.

There were so many things about this novel that worked so well. It was suspenseful, mysterious and I felt like I was investigating the mystery alongside Misty Divine. I loved hearing how Joe was hyping himself up, and using Misty Divine’s persona to get him through major challenges. Joe’s growth in this book was huge and I loved every minute.

Overall this has been a mysterious and captivating series so far and I can’t wait for the next installment!
Profile Image for Alex M.
265 reviews5 followers
January 28, 2026
“Mandy said it as though it was the furthest place away on Earth, the way Coronation Street characters talk about London.”

Misty Divine is back, and so are the mysteries. When a private investigator is stabbed right on the doorstep of Lady’s Bar, he warns she’s in danger—and the mysterious company Atrax are going to make sure of it. With twice as much hilarity and heart-pounding action as its predecessor, the next instalment in the Misty Divine universe kicks second book syndrome to the curb, upping the ante with higher stakes and baking all the breadcrumbs dropped in the first book into fruition. While the humour is light (and so delightfully British), the overall message takes a much more serious turn to reflect the ever-darkening political climate of the US and UK for LGBTQ individuals. It surprised me not only with its sincerity, but also with how much I would grow to love some of the characters given more space to breathe and grow throughout the story (Auntie Susan, how I adore you). And that ending proved that things are just getting started for Misty Divine, drag detective of my dreams.

Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC!
Profile Image for Pete.
84 reviews16 followers
February 20, 2026
Another great Misty Divine mystery!

Already I can see an improvement in Holly Stars writing, and I'm left again eagerly awaiting whatever Misty's next case will be.

The mystery is engaging, the characters are funny, and there's a real sense of queer community to the book. I loved it!

(Rounded up from 4.5 stars)
Profile Image for Vivien Parry.
1,099 reviews1 follower
February 24, 2026
Divine investigation!

The first book was a recommendation that I absolutely loved! The characters, the mystery and the way I got pulled into the story but all the right spots for me.
This book was just brilliant! The intrigue that linked back to the first book was exposed and the deepening investigation was a thrill of a ride. Misty teaming up with Auntie Susan and finding a side to her she never expected was an avenue to explore in another book! The American evangelist who I thought was a man but still in the dark about that one - will we get a third book that clears it up or is it a loose thread that will just clap in the wind!
I pray for book three and all the excitement I know will be within its pages! Misty/Joe are the friend you know will pull you into scrapes and help you come up smelling of roses!
563 reviews34 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
January 19, 2026
Netgalley Review

The writing was engaging and took me into the world of drag. There was a lot going on that made the story exciting, you didn't know what mischief the main character was going to get into next.

There was a prologue and an epilogue which started and ended the story well. The chapters were fairly long, which meant that you got a good chunk of the story before moving on.

There was a good flow between the chapters and a good pace to the overall story. Whilst we solved the mystery a good time before the end, there were more things in play that kept the story going well.

The characters were excellent and I enjoyed following Misty on her adventures. I was glad that we got to see another side to Auntie Susan and that when the going got tough there was someone there to help. I loved the community spirit, even when Misty felt like she was on her own, it was nice to see that there was someone there. At times I really felt for Misty and hoped that it would all work out in the end.

Lastly the settings. Whilst it was a character based story, there were some nice descriptions of the bars where the characters worked and the areas that their investigating took them.

Overall a great read. I am excited to see what Misty gets up to next!
Profile Image for Sue Plant.
2,434 reviews37 followers
February 12, 2026
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book

an interesting whodunnit with a drag queen.... plenty of red herrings and the like and the author managed to pull me right in....
Profile Image for Lauren (teasandthankyou).
63 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
December 22, 2025
Misty Divine is back at the centre of a new mystery when a photographer goes missing and a private investigator comes asking for help in finding him.

Conspiracy. Sequins. Party Rings...

I adore Holly's writing and, if you follow her on Instagram, you'll be familiar with her signature in-jokes that are peppered throughout this story (personal faves featured Take A Break and Pizza Express).

Everything ticked the box for me on this one: pacing, plot, characters. I even found myself loving Auntie Susan in this one - honourable mentions to Keanu and Baseball Cap too!

There is a good blend of wit, action and mystery, and shines a light on the effects and damage that prejudice causes. Another great entry in the Misty Divine series, I can't wait for more 💕

Missing in Soho is out in hardback and ebook on 2nd February 2026!
Profile Image for Kristine Booksandstuff123.
188 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 9, 2026
'Missing in Soho'by Holly Stars.
☆☆☆☆☆ 5 out of 5 stars.
Absolutely loved this story, I was a big fan of the authors first one so I was looking forward to this and it didn't disappoint.
The book was very fast paced and it all led to an amazing conclusion. I liked that a lot of other characters were part of the main storyline including Aunty Susan (who I'm now a big fan of).
If you're a fan of murder mysteries and over all fabulousness then give this book a read. You won't be disappointed.

Photographer Jeremy Edmunds has vanished without a trace. Last known location? Soho.
As the owner of Lady’s Bar, no one knows the city – and its secrets – better than drag queen Misty Divine. So who better to help private detective Sylvester Green follow this missing man’s trail than the Queen of Soho herself?
But no sooner has one mystery landed, than another one takes Misty by surprise.
Because the next day, Sylvester is back. The difference? Yesterday, he was alive and safe. Today, he’s dripping blood onto her doorstep after narrowly escaping an attack on his life.
With danger drawing in, Misty must take Sylvester’s investigation into her perfectly manicured hands. Can she solve the case, and find the missing photographer?
Or will the next crime for Misty to solve be a murder?

Thankyou to NetGallery UK, the publishers and the author for letting me read a copy in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Rachel Gilbey.
3,436 reviews578 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 9, 2026
How on earth did i totally miss Holly Stars debut novel, and the first book in the series. I spotted this one was available to review and given I know I have seen her in a few shows before including Death Drop, so the name was familiar and when I saw it was a book set in the world of drag too, I knew I had to read it.

And I can safely say I will 100% be on the look out for book three, I raced through this book totally gripped. It took a while to get to know the characters, especially since there are plenty of references to the events of the first book that I hadn't read, but I do believe this can definitely be read as a standalone.

And I'm in awe of Misty Devine, or Joe out of drag. They are determined to get the bottom of why a private investigator has asked her to find Jeremy and warned them they are in danger, having just been stabbed himself.

What they didn't expect to uncover while digging is a whole bigger issue, and one that I believe will resonate with the queer community in real life too. There are though attitudes from the people that Misty and their friends and fellow drag artists encounter that a absolutely sickening to hear. I have no idea how much of these slurs and ideologies the author may have come across in her own life, to draw from, but it saddens me to know that there will be people out there that think that way.

I loved the amount of blatant lawbreaking in pursuit of truth that there was in this story. And the last quarter or so where everything starts to ramp up, had my blood pumping and I was just willing Misty on.

And then that ending, well let's just say I'd really like to read the next book now please, or as soon as its written!

I thoroughly enjoyed delving into the drag scene in Soho, seeing many familiar street names, while everything else is fictional. It felt familiar and I absolutely adored all the various pop culture references, most of which I was actually aware of! And I could picture the outfits very clearly too, as it wouldn't be drag without absolutely stunning outfits.

Thoroughly enjoyed my time between the pages of this. What a great book.

Thank you to Penguin and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sarah Wahl.
314 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
May 20, 2026
I was so excited when I saw that Misty Divine would be back in a second book with a new mystery to solve! I had such a fun time with the first one, which is saying something because murder mysteries aren't my favorite genre, but I think everything is better when it's a drag queen in charge. In this novel, Misty Divine is continuing in Lady Lady's legacy by hosting and acting as part owner of Lady's Bar. We get to see Misty Divine in her natural state performing before once again, her world comes crashing down. Instead of finding Lady Lady dead in her dressing room, a private investigator on the hunt for a missing photographer has showed up at Lady's Bar. What ensues is a wild goose chase to find Jeremy that Misty Divine takes on herself. We meet new characters and are greeted with old ones as well, which felt refreshing. I was happy to see that Holly Stars' writing has improved a bit since the first book! Stars' seems to be more in the mind of Misty Divine now, making it easy to follow along with her thought process. What made me give this book four stars is because of the relationship between Miles and Misty. I thought that Misty's reaction to Miles reluctance was juvenile. Miles was quite literally directly impacted by her first stint of acting as a detective, so I was disappointed when Misty decided to lie to Miles about what was going on. I didn't feel bad at all about Miles staying apart for a while because I wouldn't want to get hurt again either! I was happy about their ending, with both parties being supportive of the other; however, I thought some of Misty's behavior was just unnecessary. Overall, I am very excited to see where Misty winds up in the third novel!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kaela.
393 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
May 15, 2026
I really enjoyed the first book in this series so no surprise that I loved this! A super fun and fast-paced cozy mystery starring drag queens, with lots of queer touches and tiny details that make the whole thing feel very real but also a campy wonderland. I LOVE Misty Divine, the descriptions of her outfits were such a fun touch. It's been a while since I read the last one so there were a few things mentioned that I didn't remember, but overall pretty easy to jump right back in. I enjoyed the drama and trying to figure out what was happening, and really loved the characters and their unique, fleshed out relationships. Especially loved the theme of found family and queer people connecting across generations - very heartwarming and sweet.

The last 25% or so absolutely flew by. I did feel like we were speedrunning the ending a bit after really taking our time with the buildup, and I thought there were a few situations left unresolved that I would have liked a bit more closure on. While this is mostly fun and silly, there's a decent amount of references to actual challenges queer people face (financial insecurity and homelessness, homophobia, misgendering, hate speech) and the overall "bad guy" was almost too real based on the world we live in...! But it was all handled thoughtfully and the vibe is overall very positive and uplifting. So excited to see the author's note at the end saying there will be a third book, this series is so heartwarming and I'm really glad to see it continue.

Thanks to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group and author Holly Stars for the ARC.
Profile Image for Sam.
277 reviews6 followers
February 5, 2026
I was excited when I had an email from Michael Joseph asking me to read the second instalment of the Misty Divine Mystery series - Missing in Soho. I loved Murder in the Dressing Room!

Misty Divine is back! She has had an eventful year since solving the case of who killed Lady Lady. This book follows on from the first, but Misty is more of a diva and Joe is coming round to Misty’s way of thinking. Their relationship with Miles is frosty as Joe and Misty have a new case to solve, this time the whole community is at risk.

This book was a rollercoaster from the start. It’s fast paced and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the character development in Joe, they really shine in this book. I also was happy to see that Plim is back as she was one of my fave characters from the first book. It was funny but also it holds the message that we must support the LGBTQIA+ community and keep spaces safe for everyone. I love how Holly Stars emphasised that a drag cabaret night can be a night out for some people but for others it’s the first place that they may have been where they can be themselves. This message was in a few places in the book and I think it’s something that we all need to remember.

A massive thank you to NetGalley, Michael Joseph and Penguin Random House for allowing me to read this advanced copy.
Profile Image for Susan.
694 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy
February 10, 2026
This book has been published in the UK and I purchased it on my kindle via Amazon.

Misty Divine is a drag artist, who part-owns at host at Lady's Bar in Soho. When a private investigator turns up stabbed in her night club, she needs to investigate, despite the doubts, they, as Joe (out of drag) feels and the impact on their relationship with long-term boyfriend, Miles. The story is a rattling good yarn, a romp through through familiar streets and places in Soho and yet there is a dark undertone with attacks and pressure on the LGBTQ+ community and safe venues. As well as being a good story, there is a strong message.

I loved the glamour and the costumes and seeing both Misty and Auntie Susan (no relation!) in their drag personas and then when they de-dragged becoming different people with different feelings, levels of confidence and strengths. It was clever seeing how they balanced the two parts of their lives and it was done with great sensitivity.

I think I enjoyed this second story in the Misty Divine series even more than Murder in the Dressing Room. A page turner, straight into the action on page one and excitement building right up to the end. I had to finish it before I turned off the light. Now I'm looking forward to book 3.
Profile Image for boogleloo.
814 reviews9 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
May 15, 2026
3/5 stars: This is Stars' second entry in the Misty Divine Mystery series, which is a 2SLGBTQIA+ British Cozy-ish Mystery set in England. Featuring a drag queen and cabaret bar owner, who's asked to help a private detective locate a missing photographer, as they find themselves turning sleuth after the investigator turns up stabbed on their doorstep. With danger drawing in, they'll have to work fast to solve the case and find the missing photographer, all the while dealing with a predatory business trying to close their club and a growing rift with their traumatized boyfriend. Or the next crime for their to solve just might be a murder.

With plenty of twists and turns, Stars has crafted a mystery that balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Heartfelt and humorous, Stars' writing and character work are well done; the characters are well-rounded and likable with a secondary cast that's uniquely voiced.

Stars touches on some sensitive topics; so take care and check the CWs. While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, Murder in the Dressing Room.

I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
Profile Image for Elysha Smith.
131 reviews2 followers
May 26, 2026
Missing in Soho is the second book in the Misty Divine Murder series and continues a year after the first book. Misty finds a stabbed private investigator on the steps of her drag bar and Misty starts the investigation!

This is a great continuation of the first book, where it follows up on the unresolved plot line with Atrax! This book is higher stakes then the first one, with missing people, bribery and evil corporations and people. Even with the higher stakes it’s delightfully camp and humorous throughout, having me laugh out loud at times.

In this book it does go deeper into the political climate of the US and UK in regards to LGBTQ+ people and issues. While the first book touched on it, this does become a larger plot point in the second book.

The other thing that I did like in this book was that there were some callouts of Misty and her love of investigating even if it crosses legal lines or puts people in danger. It’s not something I’ve really read in cozy mysteries before and added to Misty’s character development.

I really enjoyed the sophomore instalment in the Misty Divine Mystery series and am looking forward to the next one!

Thank you to the NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Sarah Harrison.
49 reviews9 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
December 29, 2025
Star Rating - 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

First of all A huge thank you to Holly Stars, Michael Joseph, Penguin Random House and NetGalley for an early digital copy of this book.

We follow the fabulous Misty once again as she has another mystery to solve, this book definitely takes a darker turn than the first one and the action kicks in right away ! Aswell as the book having a great plot with lots of twists, turns and drama it also covers topics which are really really important to educate yourself on and be mindful of.
I found myself getting quite emotional reading this one but the message is so important and the characters, oh my goodness I just love them !

I also absolutely love how Holly describes the makeup, outfits and performances throughout both books. I can literally picture the scenes in my head and it's such a treat ✨️

If you do read this book (which I can't recommend enough if you can't tell 🤣)
Please read the acknowledgements as there is a really important message to be heard, the threat that our LGBTQIA+ community is under is no joke and we all need to be standing together 🌈

I cannot wait to follow Misty on her next adventure ! 🔍
Profile Image for Noelani.
631 reviews13 followers
May 28, 2026
▪️Read this if you like:
▫️cozy & campy mysteries
▫️a fun cast of characters
▫️sequels; follow-up to Murder in the Dressing Room
———
It was so fun to be back in Misty’s world!

I loved the first book in this series, Murder in the Dressing Room, and this sequel was no different. The cozy and campy vibes were top notch, and there were multiple times I was laughing out loud while reading. Misty/Joe continued to be a great main character, and I loved how they came into their own as Joe more in this book, and felt more confident without the Misty shield. That said, I also ate up all of the fierceness that Misty was bringing; her courage and detective skills were impressive.

The mystery plot in this was good, but you absolutely need to read the first book to understand what’s going on in this one. There were a lot of layers to this, and while this wasn’t a typical “whodunnit” kind of mystery, it was still interesting to be along for the ride. I wasn’t sure how everything was going to come together at the end, but it really went out with a bang!

I’m already excited for the next book in this series, and to see what Misty get’s up to next.

Thank you Berkley for the advance copy.
Profile Image for RavenReads.
495 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 27, 2026
4.5 stars rounded up

Missing in Soho might just edge out Murder in the Dressing Room for me. I still adore the behind the scenes glamour of the costumes, makeup, wigs, and the electric chaos of the performances, but this installment raises the stakes in a way that feels urgent and timely. With a major corporation targeting LGBTQIA+ businesses, the threat hits closer to home, giving the mystery sharper teeth and real emotional weight.

Because the characters were so well established in the first book, this sequel is able to lean more heavily into the plot, and it really benefits from that momentum. The pacing feels tighter, the tension more immediate, and the danger more personal.

Misty/Joe remains an absolute standout. Charismatic, layered, flawed, and endlessly compelling. It is rare to find a sleuth who feels this vibrant! As long as Holly Stars keeps writing these mysteries, I'll happily keep reading them!

Many thanks to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group, and Holly Stars for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Homerun2.
2,823 reviews18 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
April 20, 2026
3.75 stars

This second mystery cozy featuring drag queen Misty Devine, now part owner of Lady's Bar, is a wild ride. It's fascinating to get a glimpse of another world. Misty is a confident and brash drag queen emcee and performer by night and while in costume, but a milder mannered guy named Joe in their other persona.

Misty gets a warning from an older private detective one night at the club, but before they can meet again she finds him stabbed on the stairs with a cryptic message. Misty has a talent for getting people to spill their secrets and since this one involves them, they can't help but start investigating. There is a link to the business problems of the last mystery and soon Misty is off and detecting. Their partner Miles is less than thrilled.

Well-plotted and full of action, plus Misty torn between saving the business and alienating Miles, makes for a fun read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,110 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
January 30, 2026
Many thanks to Netgalley and Penguin Random House for the opportunity to read this book.
Misty is at it again. A photographer has disappeared and a private investigator comes to Misty for help. They might be connected. Things only get worse when the following day the investigator shows up stabbed. Just what has Misty got herself into this time and how does it connect to them.

Another fabulous instalment in the series. I love these so much. Its a mix of drama, mystery and even some humour. It has me hooked from the start. The plot was clever and exciting. Leading to a dramatic but stunning ending and then a hint for the future. This does of course deal with some triggering issues like homophobia but its handled in an honest way. Misty is just fabulous and we even get to know a bit more about Auntie Susan too which was fun. A great mystery.
Profile Image for K.
610 reviews31 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 22, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for this ARC!

This is the second Misty Divine book, and I think the author has really found her footing now. As with Murder in the Dressing Room, Missing in Soho is camp, cheesy, and so delightfully full of drag and queer culture that you can't help but to smile while you're reading it. Whilst it isn't the most complicated plot, I gave it five stars for sheer enjoyment.

This instalment is a bit more political than the first, which I really liked - it added a bit of grounding and gravitas to an otherwise cosy mystery. I also enjoyed the character development of some of the side characters, who got to be a bit more important in this adventure.

Finally - we need more drag queens writing books! The expertise shines through, and makes it a whole experience.
Profile Image for Queen B.
1,773 reviews32 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
May 27, 2026
Thank you to Berkley for the gifted eARC.

I loved the first book in the series, Murder in the Dressing Room, so I was very down to solve some mysteries with Misty again.

And I realized I’m maybe more cautious than I thought, because when Misty (or as Joe) was investigating and doing something perhaps illegal, I sided with Miles and my inner monologue went “is that a good idea???” And honestly, I loved that there was this divergence of opinions between Joe and Miles. It felt so realistic.

Regarding the mystery, I felt like I was along for the ride, learning everything as Misty did. I didn’t really expect all the twists and turns we got, and you guys probably can guess, I love being surprised.

Just like the last book, I enjoyed the deeper dive into drag culture and how they are treated by the general public, it really felt like an important part of this book. Overall, another fun mystery and I’ll happily solve them with Misty anytime.
Profile Image for Lindsey Pope.
180 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
December 13, 2025
Drag Queen Misty Divine is back with a bang!
When a private investigator falls down the stairs to Misty’s bar suffering from serious stab wounds with a warning that she’s in danger and to “Find Jeremy” she pulls on her investigating wig.
Will she be able to find the missing photographer, work out who is trying to close Lady’s Bar and why?

Such an excellent cosy mystery filled with drag queens, missing journalists and dodgy men in dark suits that kept me reading into the early hours of the morning! You can tell it’s been written by a true drag queen with the full details of getting into drag.
Absolutely loved it and look forward to the next instalment.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Verity W.
3,606 reviews37 followers
March 4, 2026
This is the second book featuring the drag queen and sometime detective Misty Divine. I read the first book last year and was mostly coming back to see how the huge hanging thread from the first book was resolved. And the good news is that that thread was resolved in this one (more or less) but some of the things that I didn't love in the first book were even more prominent in this one. Misty/Joe in that first story was a bit too-stupid-to-live and foolhardy at times in that - but this one it felt like their behaviour has properly crossed over into selfishness - which is what a lot of the other characters were accusing them of. I did understand Misty/Joe's motivations but it made them a very hard character to like - and I think the whole point is that you're meant to be rooting for them. Other people may not have that issue or be bothered by it in the same way that I was though. The end of the book teases a third in the series, but I'm not sure I'll be reading it.

**Copy from the publisher via NetGalley for review consideration. All opinions are my own.***
Profile Image for CJ Opal.
211 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
May 6, 2026
Misty Divine is my favorite detective, and she'll be yours too. This book is just as fun as the first one, but the action is dialed up to 11. There's stabbings, car chases, stalking, and gun fire. I was on the edge of my seat, and I felt so much rage and joy throughout. Stars addresses the growing trend of rabid religious figures aiming pure hatred at the queer community, in the name of their true higher power: money. This book speaks to the importance of having safe spaces and using them to rally together and protect ourselves. We have to share our resources, our talents, and our knowledge if we want to beat back the institutions that want to destroy us. I can't wait for Stars' next book, I'm a fan for life.
1,900 reviews28 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
May 10, 2026
With her club under threat Misty Divine is shocked when a private investigator is stabbed on her doorstep giving her a mysterious message. Involving the powerful (and scary) Auntie Susan, Misty and her real-life persona Joe manage to unearth a conspiracy involving fundamentalist Christian determined to destroy the 'degenerate' LGBTQ+ community. With their life in danger Joe infiltrates an event and comes into contact with the evangelical (and corrupt) Ginger Baker. However in order to succeed, Joe / Misty needs to use all of their talents.
This is a delightfully original take on the crime fiction genre set in the drag scene in Soho. The character of Joe/Misty is really well described, especially the dichotomy of two contrasting personas. It's a wild ride and very enjoyable
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382 reviews20 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
May 17, 2026
I was so excited to be back with Misty Divine and this book definitely kept my attention from start to finish. There was so much going on, and I felt completely pulled into all the drama, danger, and mystery unfolding.

I really loved getting to see more of the relationship struggles between Joe and Miles because it felt very real and emotional. At times I did think Divya was overreacting a little which got a bit frustrating.

One of my favorite parts was getting to see a different side of Auntie Susan. I loved learning more about the characters while the mystery continued to unravel. Misty is such a fun and memorable character, and I continue to enjoy this series so much.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the book in exchange for an honest review.
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