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The Golden Arrow #2
The Queen Con
What’s a comic book writer’s life without a real-life archnemesis?
MG Martin thought she’d turned the last page on the dangerous Golden Arrow case. The bad guys are behind bars, and the rest is up to her detective boyfriend, Matteo Kildaire. But when Golden Arrow impersonators start popping up all over Los Angeles, the writer in MG can’t help but be intrigued. Are they impostors, or has the original Golden Arrow returned for another story arc?
A reemergence of drug crime has left the LAPD baffled, and golden arrows are once again being left at crime scenes. Matteo asks MG if she’ll resume consulting on all things geek, and she jumps at the opportunity. No need to mention that she may also do some sleuthing, with her friends’ help, right?
It’s rumored that the Golden Arrow will make a guest appearance at an exclusive queen party, and MG, Lawrence, and Ryan go undercover to sniff out the truth. But the sting goes sideways in a deadly way, and it’s up to their little crew to prove that the Golden Arrow might actually be the supervillain they’re chasing. Because looks can be deceiving, and every good writer knows the sequel is where the real plot twist happens…
MG Martin thought she’d turned the last page on the dangerous Golden Arrow case. The bad guys are behind bars, and the rest is up to her detective boyfriend, Matteo Kildaire. But when Golden Arrow impersonators start popping up all over Los Angeles, the writer in MG can’t help but be intrigued. Are they impostors, or has the original Golden Arrow returned for another story arc?
A reemergence of drug crime has left the LAPD baffled, and golden arrows are once again being left at crime scenes. Matteo asks MG if she’ll resume consulting on all things geek, and she jumps at the opportunity. No need to mention that she may also do some sleuthing, with her friends’ help, right?
It’s rumored that the Golden Arrow will make a guest appearance at an exclusive queen party, and MG, Lawrence, and Ryan go undercover to sniff out the truth. But the sting goes sideways in a deadly way, and it’s up to their little crew to prove that the Golden Arrow might actually be the supervillain they’re chasing. Because looks can be deceiving, and every good writer knows the sequel is where the real plot twist happens…
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2019
293 people are currently reading
1250 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
September 4, 2021
Well, that wasn’t good.
I called the first book a guilty pleasure. But this was certainly more guilty than pleasure. The geek factor is still there, what with the main character being a comic book writer and certifiable geek that finds herself in a world in which a real-life vigilante is busting drug rings and MG is once again called in to work on the case as a consultant. References to comic books, movies, TV shows and inside jokes aplenty. The case itself almost becomes background noise, though.
MG has a lot on her plate. Her writing job, moonlighting as a costume designer for drag shows, work on a Hooded Falcon movie, helping her boyfriend to solve abovementioned case. Then there are all the parties. The drag revues, after-parties, a party for her co-workers, costume parties. The thing is, Molin is giving almost equal weight to all of this. I mean, I don’t know, if there’s a real-life villain around trying to kill your friends, shouldn’t this be a little more important than all the other stuff? Okay, you will still have to earn some money, sure. But at least it should be more prominent in your thoughts than how this or that costume looks, or throwing a party for your co-workers, or if some guy you just met is more into movies and comic books than your boyfriend. I was definitely shipping MG and Matteo in the first book. But now that the falling for each other part is in the rearview mirror we have moved on to MG questioning if she’s actually ready for a grown-up relationship, setting her sights on a (more geeky) potential replacement for Matteo. I didn’t particularly care for that struggle.
Okay, I can sense this review going into rambling territory. In MG’s words:
I think that sums up quite nicely what was wrong with this book.
1.5 stars
I called the first book a guilty pleasure. But this was certainly more guilty than pleasure. The geek factor is still there, what with the main character being a comic book writer and certifiable geek that finds herself in a world in which a real-life vigilante is busting drug rings and MG is once again called in to work on the case as a consultant. References to comic books, movies, TV shows and inside jokes aplenty. The case itself almost becomes background noise, though.
MG has a lot on her plate. Her writing job, moonlighting as a costume designer for drag shows, work on a Hooded Falcon movie, helping her boyfriend to solve abovementioned case. Then there are all the parties. The drag revues, after-parties, a party for her co-workers, costume parties. The thing is, Molin is giving almost equal weight to all of this. I mean, I don’t know, if there’s a real-life villain around trying to kill your friends, shouldn’t this be a little more important than all the other stuff? Okay, you will still have to earn some money, sure. But at least it should be more prominent in your thoughts than how this or that costume looks, or throwing a party for your co-workers, or if some guy you just met is more into movies and comic books than your boyfriend. I was definitely shipping MG and Matteo in the first book. But now that the falling for each other part is in the rearview mirror we have moved on to MG questioning if she’s actually ready for a grown-up relationship, setting her sights on a (more geeky) potential replacement for Matteo. I didn’t particularly care for that struggle.
Okay, I can sense this review going into rambling territory. In MG’s words:
There is a killer MJ queen duel with the song “Thriller”, and once or twice I’m so captivated that I forget I’m supposed to be watching for a would-be killer.
I think that sums up quite nicely what was wrong with this book.
1.5 stars
October 16, 2019
I was just not invested and this is probably because I didn't read the first book. It's full of comic book references and fandoms. I should, in theory, love this book. But I didn't.
The love conflict between MG and Mateo was troubling to me. There is a part where He's too good for her. What does MG think? Because finally her perfect boyfriend understands her!
Because I wasn't fully invested in the characters and plot I didn't really care about the outcome. This book is funny and full of drag queen shows and police investigations. It's super cute, just not for me.
The love conflict between MG and Mateo was troubling to me. There is a part where He's too good for her. What does MG think? Because finally her perfect boyfriend understands her!
Because I wasn't fully invested in the characters and plot I didn't really care about the outcome. This book is funny and full of drag queen shows and police investigations. It's super cute, just not for me.
June 28, 2019
Solid 3 stars for me. I received an early copy of this book courtesy of Netgalley and 47North Publishing and in turn I’m giving my honest review.
It was definitely great to see MG and the gang back at it again, solving crime and taking names. I also loved that we got to see more Lawrence in this one. I’m pretty Ute he’s my favorite character so I’ll take as much of him as I can get.
Just like with the first book in the series, the pop culture references were a bit too heavy for me. Some of them served a purpose and some just felt like they were thrown in there for the sake of reminding us that MG is a “cool comic book chick unlike other girls”. Just my personal opinion. I didn’t see the reveal of the Mad Hatter coming, which is both good and bad. Good because I love unexpected surprises, bad because it seemed a little random. Looking back on what I read I can’t find nothing that says “oh yeah ok I see the connection/potential.” Could be just me.
Now the Golden Arrow reveal, was the complete opposite. I saw that coming a mile away (or should I say a book away). That was built up to be a bit obvious, which makes me wonder if that was the REAL GA reveal or a decoy and set up for a follow up book.
Over all it’s a quick read and decent enough that I’ll check out the next book even though I’m sure the pop culture references and slightly annoying MG rambling will be back in full force
It was definitely great to see MG and the gang back at it again, solving crime and taking names. I also loved that we got to see more Lawrence in this one. I’m pretty Ute he’s my favorite character so I’ll take as much of him as I can get.
Just like with the first book in the series, the pop culture references were a bit too heavy for me. Some of them served a purpose and some just felt like they were thrown in there for the sake of reminding us that MG is a “cool comic book chick unlike other girls”. Just my personal opinion. I didn’t see the reveal of the Mad Hatter coming, which is both good and bad. Good because I love unexpected surprises, bad because it seemed a little random. Looking back on what I read I can’t find nothing that says “oh yeah ok I see the connection/potential.” Could be just me.
Now the Golden Arrow reveal, was the complete opposite. I saw that coming a mile away (or should I say a book away). That was built up to be a bit obvious, which makes me wonder if that was the REAL GA reveal or a decoy and set up for a follow up book.
Over all it’s a quick read and decent enough that I’ll check out the next book even though I’m sure the pop culture references and slightly annoying MG rambling will be back in full force
August 4, 2020
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A Geek Girl has a lot on her plates, being a comic book artist, a costume designer, and an amateur detective. In the last book, she and her super cop who can't catch anybody boyfriend put a major drug dealer in prison. It seems someone has taken his place. There's a drag queen diva contest, and a vigilante running around.
The protagonist seems little desperate to make sure we all know she's a geek.
A Geek Girl has a lot on her plates, being a comic book artist, a costume designer, and an amateur detective. In the last book, she and her super cop who can't catch anybody boyfriend put a major drug dealer in prison. It seems someone has taken his place. There's a drag queen diva contest, and a vigilante running around.
The protagonist seems little desperate to make sure we all know she's a geek.
June 10, 2019
3.5 stars!
MG is a gal after my own heart. Having loved THE FRAME-UP, I was stoked that THE QUEEN CON was available on NetGalley.
I really enjoy Meghan Scott Molin's writing style. These books are chock-full of quippy lines, all the nerdy references, and very real characters.
I loved that this novel focused on MG's best friend, L, the consummate drag queen. It's a culture that many are now interested in because of Rupaul's Drag Race, and Molin highlights how involved the costuming, character development, and politics of the art form can be.
Matteo is definitely a heartthrob, and I appreciated the intricacies of their relationship. MG has very real anxiety that I could undoubtedly relate to; I'm glad Molin didn't just gloss over the hard part of romantic entanglements.
As with THE FRAME-UP, fans of detective fiction, science fiction, fantasy and/or drag will adore this novel.
thelithaven.com
MG is a gal after my own heart. Having loved THE FRAME-UP, I was stoked that THE QUEEN CON was available on NetGalley.
I really enjoy Meghan Scott Molin's writing style. These books are chock-full of quippy lines, all the nerdy references, and very real characters.
I loved that this novel focused on MG's best friend, L, the consummate drag queen. It's a culture that many are now interested in because of Rupaul's Drag Race, and Molin highlights how involved the costuming, character development, and politics of the art form can be.
Matteo is definitely a heartthrob, and I appreciated the intricacies of their relationship. MG has very real anxiety that I could undoubtedly relate to; I'm glad Molin didn't just gloss over the hard part of romantic entanglements.
As with THE FRAME-UP, fans of detective fiction, science fiction, fantasy and/or drag will adore this novel.
thelithaven.com
May 15, 2019
That was fun!
Drag queens, drugs, mystery, romance, superheroes, nerd love, and murder!
I enjoyed the emotional journey of our Yin Yang couple, Michael-Grace and Mateo.
Mateo is crush-worthy.
The mystery was not as good as book one but overall it felt like a better book. Probably because MG is less prickly and the characters are so likable they feel like old friends.
And the nerd love! For the love of Thor give me book three soon!
“For a few moments, I let the worries fall away, and do what I love best—lose myself in another world.”
- Michael-Grace
December 18, 2018
Color me lucky. I read an early copy of this bad boy, and it was as awesome as the first. So vivid and witty, with all the who-done-it fun I adore in Molin's writing. So good!
December 29, 2019
Four stars if you are a geek. If not, don't bother reading it. You won't get it.
It is so nice reading a book where I am in on all the jokes and snarky cultural references. It makes up for the fact that the plot is so far fetched.
Girl who works at a comic book company moonlights as a costume designer for drag queens and helps her police detective boyfriend track down murderers and crack up drug rings. Happens all the time in the real world, right?
I donut care!!! She has a corgi named Trogdor! I am not going to explain it.
I listened to the Audio book version, narrated by Andrea Emmes. She had a good grasp on the content, but her diction was a little too precise, almost as if she had worked with the wrong vocal coach. It was a little annoying and unnatural at times. I am not going out of my way to look for books specifically narrated by her.
It is so nice reading a book where I am in on all the jokes and snarky cultural references. It makes up for the fact that the plot is so far fetched.
Girl who works at a comic book company moonlights as a costume designer for drag queens and helps her police detective boyfriend track down murderers and crack up drug rings. Happens all the time in the real world, right?
I donut care!!! She has a corgi named Trogdor! I am not going to explain it.
I listened to the Audio book version, narrated by Andrea Emmes. She had a good grasp on the content, but her diction was a little too precise, almost as if she had worked with the wrong vocal coach. It was a little annoying and unnatural at times. I am not going out of my way to look for books specifically narrated by her.
June 5, 2019
I had the privilege and great pleasure of reading an advance copy of THE QUEEN CON. I devoured it much as I did its predecessor, THE FRAME UP. There was no lessening here, no sense of plateauing and waiting that we often see in the second book of trilogies. These books are unputdownable. In fact, I loved this second one even more. MG is growing, coming into herself, not sitting down but standing up and speaking. Her voice from the start has been so strong and funny and clever. The plot is intricate and twisting fathoms deep, but it’s the voice I want to hang out with, could just sit and listen to all day. And! My son last week picked TQC from my Kindle (note to self: son shares Kindle app and so can access all the books you read) - I assume because he was hooked by the cover (the covers are all SO badass). He devoured it, and has now stared TFU. These are adult books, with some adult themes, but they are so healthily and insightfully conveyed that I’m okay with it. He’s just hit puberty (an earthquake unto itself) and we’ve been connecting in new ways over these books, having wonderful, interesting little chats about things like alibis and golden arrows and drag queens.
November 18, 2023
Hodnocení: 3,5/5 ✩
I přes to, že druhý díl této série se mi četl o něco lépe než ten první, nemohu si pomoct, ale mám k němu v podstatě stejné výtky, jako k tomu prvnímu.
Prostředí Drag Queen, mě naprosto nadchlo, stejně tak jako nápad s vydavatelstvím komiksů, a hlavním hrdinou ztotožňujícím se s tím komiksovým. Lawrence a ostatní Queens jsem si zamilovala, bohužel kamenem úrazu, pro mě byla opět Michael-Grace. Způsob, jakým přemýšlí, jak se rozhoduje, její snaha o to, za každou cenu neudělat nic tak, jak by se snad mohli zachovat ostatní. Zoufalá a nekonečně vytahovaná a omílaná nerozhodnost ve vztahu. To vše upozaďovalo jak ostatní postavy, tak vlastně i samotnou detektivní linku, a smazalo veškerou originalitu a poutavost, zprostředkovanou prostředím příběhu. A to je obrovská škoda.
I přes to, že druhý díl této série se mi četl o něco lépe než ten první, nemohu si pomoct, ale mám k němu v podstatě stejné výtky, jako k tomu prvnímu.
Prostředí Drag Queen, mě naprosto nadchlo, stejně tak jako nápad s vydavatelstvím komiksů, a hlavním hrdinou ztotožňujícím se s tím komiksovým. Lawrence a ostatní Queens jsem si zamilovala, bohužel kamenem úrazu, pro mě byla opět Michael-Grace. Způsob, jakým přemýšlí, jak se rozhoduje, její snaha o to, za každou cenu neudělat nic tak, jak by se snad mohli zachovat ostatní. Zoufalá a nekonečně vytahovaná a omílaná nerozhodnost ve vztahu. To vše upozaďovalo jak ostatní postavy, tak vlastně i samotnou detektivní linku, a smazalo veškerou originalitu a poutavost, zprostředkovanou prostředím příběhu. A to je obrovská škoda.
May 26, 2020
Good Vigilante Fantasy
I like this author's writing style because the story flows along comfortably, and her writing skills, grammar, and proofreading make the book easy to read. I always get bored with the love story side in books, but in this case, it blends in well.
I like this author's writing style because the story flows along comfortably, and her writing skills, grammar, and proofreading make the book easy to read. I always get bored with the love story side in books, but in this case, it blends in well.
July 16, 2019
I can equate my experience reading this series with spending too much time with people who I don't actually get along with very well.
The first book was a lot of fun, and I enjoyed Molin's introductions of these goofy characters and a fledgling mystery, but by the end of this book I realized her characters are either not fleshed out well or are unlikeable, and she doesn't have as good a grip on her plot points now that the mystery is more complicated. The half-hearted attempt at a romantic conflict (for MG, commitment! is! hard!) didn't help the appeal of the book either. As for the "vigilante hero" and villain, I predicted the Golden Arrow reveal in the first book, and I wasn't invested enough in the other plot points to care about the reveal of the villain.
The first book was a lot of fun, and I enjoyed Molin's introductions of these goofy characters and a fledgling mystery, but by the end of this book I realized her characters are either not fleshed out well or are unlikeable, and she doesn't have as good a grip on her plot points now that the mystery is more complicated. The half-hearted attempt at a romantic conflict (for MG, commitment! is! hard!) didn't help the appeal of the book either. As for the "vigilante hero" and villain, I predicted the Golden Arrow reveal in the first book, and I wasn't invested enough in the other plot points to care about the reveal of the villain.
May 17, 2024
There is a lot going on in this book; too much for the author to manage. It feels very similar to the first book, but there, the adventure felt mad-cap and zany. By book two, it feels like we have a character who doesn't know her own mind and can't set boundaries, and a story that has an extra couple of plots thrown in. Definitely a promising author, but we're not quite there yet.
eARC from NetGalley.
eARC from NetGalley.
July 9, 2019
My favourite geeky detective!
5 out of 5 stars!
Now since this is book two in the Golden Arrow Mysteries series, it will be hard to review… while not giving away any spoilers. But I will do my absolute best!
Meghan’s writing is impeccable. Perfect balance between, plot, dialog, suspense and romance. I knew I always loved thrilling detective reads, but it’s not till Meghan shared her masterpieces with the world that I realised how much I needed my favourite geeky detective read!
Comics, super heroes, villains, video games, geeks, drag queens and sexy detectives! What else could anyone ask for in an electrifying read?
I don’t know if I could ever get tired of the original, magical trio. MG; A stylish, force to be reckoned with geeky comic book artist. Ryan; A sweet dedicated bestie, who loves his video games and Lawrence; The Queen B of all drag queens! … in my eyes. Oh and lets not forget the addition of MG’s hubba hubba detective boyfriend, Matteo Kildaire.
The Queen Con did not disappoint!… Action packed goodness from start to finish. And it’s true “the sequel is where the real plot twist happens“.
This vibrant read goes out with a pow, leaving you wanting more!… so much more!
Published by 47North and releases tomorrow! …July 9, 2019. So drop what you are doing, run out and get it now. If you haven’t read The Frame Up, then be sure to pick both up!
I can’t thank Thomas Allen & Son deeply enough for sending this unbelievable read my way for review. Thank you from the very bottom of my nerdy heart!
And of course thank you all for reading.
Your Fellow Nerd Snob
-Nichole
5 out of 5 stars!
Now since this is book two in the Golden Arrow Mysteries series, it will be hard to review… while not giving away any spoilers. But I will do my absolute best!
Meghan’s writing is impeccable. Perfect balance between, plot, dialog, suspense and romance. I knew I always loved thrilling detective reads, but it’s not till Meghan shared her masterpieces with the world that I realised how much I needed my favourite geeky detective read!
Comics, super heroes, villains, video games, geeks, drag queens and sexy detectives! What else could anyone ask for in an electrifying read?
I don’t know if I could ever get tired of the original, magical trio. MG; A stylish, force to be reckoned with geeky comic book artist. Ryan; A sweet dedicated bestie, who loves his video games and Lawrence; The Queen B of all drag queens! … in my eyes. Oh and lets not forget the addition of MG’s hubba hubba detective boyfriend, Matteo Kildaire.
The Queen Con did not disappoint!… Action packed goodness from start to finish. And it’s true “the sequel is where the real plot twist happens“.
This vibrant read goes out with a pow, leaving you wanting more!… so much more!
Published by 47North and releases tomorrow! …July 9, 2019. So drop what you are doing, run out and get it now. If you haven’t read The Frame Up, then be sure to pick both up!
I can’t thank Thomas Allen & Son deeply enough for sending this unbelievable read my way for review. Thank you from the very bottom of my nerdy heart!
And of course thank you all for reading.
Your Fellow Nerd Snob
-Nichole
July 8, 2019
✨ 3.5 stars! ✨
This second book in The Golden Arrow series was as entertaining as the first one and as full of all the geeky references I love too. The first half was maybe a little slow, but the last third of the book is really action-packed and kept me at the edge of my seat.
Even though I had my suspicions about the identity of the Golden Arrow since the end of the previous book, this one managed to have me thinking those suspicions were 100% right one moment and second-guessing them the next.
I found the characters very endearing. I admit that MG frustrated me a little at certain points and I wanted to shake some sense into her a few times, but despite that, I love her. And I adore Matteo, Ryan and Lawrence.
The ending was kind of abrupt, though. It ends right after the case gets solved and leaves us hanging in a few fronts. I feel like there are several pending conversations and unfinished business between the main group of characters. But I'm hoping that has been done so on purpose to set things up for the next book (because there needs to be a next book!) and that we'll get some answers in it!
*I read an advanced copy of this book via Netgalley.
This second book in The Golden Arrow series was as entertaining as the first one and as full of all the geeky references I love too. The first half was maybe a little slow, but the last third of the book is really action-packed and kept me at the edge of my seat.
Even though I had my suspicions about the identity of the Golden Arrow since the end of the previous book, this one managed to have me thinking those suspicions were 100% right one moment and second-guessing them the next.
I found the characters very endearing. I admit that MG frustrated me a little at certain points and I wanted to shake some sense into her a few times, but despite that, I love her. And I adore Matteo, Ryan and Lawrence.
The ending was kind of abrupt, though. It ends right after the case gets solved and leaves us hanging in a few fronts. I feel like there are several pending conversations and unfinished business between the main group of characters. But I'm hoping that has been done so on purpose to set things up for the next book (because there needs to be a next book!) and that we'll get some answers in it!
*I read an advanced copy of this book via Netgalley.
June 10, 2020
i wanted to like this book more than I actually did. The nerdy, comic book/superhero world that MG lives in could have been so fun. Except it wasn't. This book was still too heavy on the gratuitous pop culture references, although there weren't quite as many thrown in for no reason as in the first book.
MG annoyed me in this one. She has a wonderful boyfriend who tries constantly to understand and support her and her world, and she is worried that he isn't "nerdy" enough? It's like high school-- don't date outside of your clique.
I continue to love Lawrence, although I believe his character is underutilized. I mean, a giant, ex-security guard, black drag queen? The backstory on him/her, done well, could be amazing.
We all guessed after the first book who the Golden Arrow was going to be (although I believe the GA is actually 2 people). So that was not a surprise. The mystery/villain/Mad Hatter storyline was a bit muddled. I don't understand the villain's reason for doing all this-- even when he explained it I didn't get it. It seemed like a lot of complicated effort for a very weak reason.
Not too sure I will be reading book 3.
MG annoyed me in this one. She has a wonderful boyfriend who tries constantly to understand and support her and her world, and she is worried that he isn't "nerdy" enough? It's like high school-- don't date outside of your clique.
I continue to love Lawrence, although I believe his character is underutilized. I mean, a giant, ex-security guard, black drag queen? The backstory on him/her, done well, could be amazing.
We all guessed after the first book who the Golden Arrow was going to be (although I believe the GA is actually 2 people). So that was not a surprise. The mystery/villain/Mad Hatter storyline was a bit muddled. I don't understand the villain's reason for doing all this-- even when he explained it I didn't get it. It seemed like a lot of complicated effort for a very weak reason.
Not too sure I will be reading book 3.
October 21, 2019
After finishing Golden Arrow #1, I went right into #2. Where I called the previous book "rom-stery" or something, this was way heavier on the romance and the "girl indecision" that we all do but I find infuriating to listen to (which is why I don't read a lot of romance) in general. I found that my guess about the identity of the real-life Golden Arrow was correct (and I figured it out much earlier than the detective in the stories haha). I wonder where this series could or would go from here. Now that it seems like the main character has figured out the love life stuff (well enough anyway..) and at least the detective knows who the GA is, they could theoretically spin this to be like most cozy mysteries where the main character knows that they're supposed to stay out of the way of the police but just can't help themselves.
Despite my annoyance with the "girl stuff", I enjoy the characters in this series, so if another book were to come out, I'd probably get another one...
Despite my annoyance with the "girl stuff", I enjoy the characters in this series, so if another book were to come out, I'd probably get another one...
July 20, 2019
Just as MG, and her friends are feeling secure that the bad guys are in jail.
A new drug lord has appeared, and signs that the Golden Arrow is once again on the move has the police and MG as a consultant going in circles.
As they start to close in, the people Michael Grace Martin cares the most about start getting seriously hurt.
She has to put a plan in place, even if it involves those she doesn't care about to help bring out the new baddie.
Another story, that although it started slow finish with a great ending and was every bit as enjoyable as the first one.
A new drug lord has appeared, and signs that the Golden Arrow is once again on the move has the police and MG as a consultant going in circles.
As they start to close in, the people Michael Grace Martin cares the most about start getting seriously hurt.
She has to put a plan in place, even if it involves those she doesn't care about to help bring out the new baddie.
Another story, that although it started slow finish with a great ending and was every bit as enjoyable as the first one.
August 25, 2019
These books are fun, and MG is a nice lead. That said, I found this second book to be a bit of a disappointment after the first (which I really liked). All the characters are here, but I do feel that the author falls into a couple thirdrate thriller trope traps:
- First, the overall story here is a bit too complicated and contrived. In the Frame-Up, the story is relatively straightforward and the reveals make sense. In this one, even after finishing, I'm not sure really what the antagonist was really doing and why they had an overly complicated plan to achieve their goals. Part of this comes in the fact that the ending happens so abruptly, I suppose.
- Second, the reveals in this story are all driven by characters keeping secrets from one another for almost no reason. I find this in a lot of mystery/thriller writing where people who are close withhold information from each other and this withholding of information is the main driver of the mystery for the reader and narrator, it serves almost no purpose to the characters themselves.
There were a couple of other things I thought were weak here - we are getting a third book so why have such an abbreviated romance conflict arc? It just felt completely rushed and a little unbelievable. Second - the climactic scene I thought was not really framed well - it's hard for me to resolve how the action happened as described.
Luckily the book is still a joy to read (assuming you are into the constant pop culture references) and the characters are fun and cool. If you like the characters and the settings, you'll enjoy reading this. And I'll happily dive into the third when it arrives.
- First, the overall story here is a bit too complicated and contrived. In the Frame-Up, the story is relatively straightforward and the reveals make sense. In this one, even after finishing, I'm not sure really what the antagonist was really doing and why they had an overly complicated plan to achieve their goals. Part of this comes in the fact that the ending happens so abruptly, I suppose.
- Second, the reveals in this story are all driven by characters keeping secrets from one another for almost no reason. I find this in a lot of mystery/thriller writing where people who are close withhold information from each other and this withholding of information is the main driver of the mystery for the reader and narrator, it serves almost no purpose to the characters themselves.
There were a couple of other things I thought were weak here - we are getting a third book so why have such an abbreviated romance conflict arc? It just felt completely rushed and a little unbelievable. Second - the climactic scene I thought was not really framed well - it's hard for me to resolve how the action happened as described.
Luckily the book is still a joy to read (assuming you are into the constant pop culture references) and the characters are fun and cool. If you like the characters and the settings, you'll enjoy reading this. And I'll happily dive into the third when it arrives.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2019
I received an advance digital copy of this book from the author, 47North and Netgalley.com. Thanks to all for the opportunity to read and review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The Golden Arrow series is my new favorite in the realm of Super Hero stories. It's nerdy and girly all at the same time and I loved reading it.
I look forward to more from the author and The Golden Arrow!!
5 out of 5 stars. Highly recommended.
The Golden Arrow series is my new favorite in the realm of Super Hero stories. It's nerdy and girly all at the same time and I loved reading it.
I look forward to more from the author and The Golden Arrow!!
5 out of 5 stars. Highly recommended.
November 3, 2020
Part of the community
I loved this book more than I’ve loved any book I’ve read this year.
I’ve been putting off reading the Queen Con because I knew it would consume me just like the first book in the Golden Arrow series did. Finally I sat down, turned it on audio (I prefer this series in audio books. The narrator is the best I’ve ever listened to and brings the characters to life. I actually feel like MG is telling me the story when I listen to her.), and lost myself in the mystery of the Golden Arrow.
I guessed who the Golden Arrow was half way through the book, but there were enough other suspects that I kept having doubts. The love drama between Mateo and MG was perfect. It was stuff I’d dealt with myself. Feelings I felt and felt guilty for having. I swear MG and I are so much alike.
I really hope this series continues, because I don’t like the thought of a world without the Golden Arrow. Like MG herself says, “It’s like Gothem without it’s Bat.”
I loved this book more than I’ve loved any book I’ve read this year.
I’ve been putting off reading the Queen Con because I knew it would consume me just like the first book in the Golden Arrow series did. Finally I sat down, turned it on audio (I prefer this series in audio books. The narrator is the best I’ve ever listened to and brings the characters to life. I actually feel like MG is telling me the story when I listen to her.), and lost myself in the mystery of the Golden Arrow.
I guessed who the Golden Arrow was half way through the book, but there were enough other suspects that I kept having doubts. The love drama between Mateo and MG was perfect. It was stuff I’d dealt with myself. Feelings I felt and felt guilty for having. I swear MG and I are so much alike.
I really hope this series continues, because I don’t like the thought of a world without the Golden Arrow. Like MG herself says, “It’s like Gothem without it’s Bat.”
December 28, 2019
The world of these books is new for me...and this one was a tougher go for me. Characters you care about (Which is absolutely necessary for me), and a new subject.
July 9, 2019
As fun and witty as the first in the series, THE QUEEN CON is like meeting back up with old friends. This adventure feels like the perfect follow up to THE FRAME UP -- the characters are back, but they're evolving, the situation goes deeper into relationships and themes, all while retaining the trademark wit and geeky references (just wait til you get to the pizza and the dumpster). I wish MG and L were real people who could hang out with me, but I'll just have to settle on having this series.
February 11, 2020
LOVE this series ... so fun and original!
January 30, 2020
I haven't read the first book in this series, but it was pretty easy to follow. This was a unique fandom story. I loved all the fan references and MG was a great character. The crime solving gang was awesome. I definitely want to look into the first book after reading this.
***Received from Netgalley for review***
***Received from Netgalley for review***
November 14, 2019
First off, the only reason I bothered reading the second book in the Golden Arrow saga was to see if Molin answered the question of who was the Golden Arrow. I had my feeling of who it was in the original, but I wanted to see if I was right, and I’m glad to say I was.
I will say Molin’s writing improved compared to the first novel. Her first attempt reads more like a teenage girls diary then a book.
This one felt more adult in it’s writing. Still, it was lazy, easy to figure out who the bad guys are, and once again the secondary characters are given very little development.
It’s a shame because Lawrence, the cross dressing black man known as “L”, has one of the best storylines but is barely touched upon.
This book is all about M.G. The most annoying female character ever point in a book. Molin makes even the detectives sound like morons that need M.G. (AKA Michael Grace), comic book artist to solve this crime.
Why? Who knows? She does nothing but keeps ignoring her detective boyfriend, Mateo, at every point in this book.
Now that the mystery of the Golden Arrow is kind of answered, left to some debate at the end of the book, I can skip any further attempts by Molin to revisit M.G.
This book was a waste of time, and a very boring read. Stay away.
I will say Molin’s writing improved compared to the first novel. Her first attempt reads more like a teenage girls diary then a book.
This one felt more adult in it’s writing. Still, it was lazy, easy to figure out who the bad guys are, and once again the secondary characters are given very little development.
It’s a shame because Lawrence, the cross dressing black man known as “L”, has one of the best storylines but is barely touched upon.
This book is all about M.G. The most annoying female character ever point in a book. Molin makes even the detectives sound like morons that need M.G. (AKA Michael Grace), comic book artist to solve this crime.
Why? Who knows? She does nothing but keeps ignoring her detective boyfriend, Mateo, at every point in this book.
Now that the mystery of the Golden Arrow is kind of answered, left to some debate at the end of the book, I can skip any further attempts by Molin to revisit M.G.
This book was a waste of time, and a very boring read. Stay away.
August 21, 2019
Thanks to NetGalley for my free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was so disappointed in Meghan Scott Molin's second book in The Golden Arrow series, The Queen Con. I had read The Frame-Up (book 1) and loved it! It was fast-paced, read like a comic book, had characters we cared about, and infused a lot of popular Geek culture. I had high hopes for The Queen Con, but it failed miserably. The story didn't go anywhere really. The author relied too heavily on character development from the first novel simply to carry through to this one, and it did not. The story itself felt thrown together at the end, and it really took a long time to get there. I usually can read a book in a couple of days, but this one took me three weeks. I could easily put it down, which is a bad sign. I really, really wanted to like this novel, but to be fair to readers, it just isn't worth the time and effort to get through it.
August 29, 2019
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to review The Queen Con. I LOVED it!! Cracking open the pages was like returning home to old friends. MG is fun and witty. Her best friend L is fabulous. And I enjoyed seeing MG grow throughout not only in herself but in her relationships. Molin's style of writing is an easy read, and the plot/story had me turning the pages. Highly recommend this book and this author!
August 12, 2022
Druhý diel trilógie je vždycky tak trochu problémový, no hoci sa mi jednotka páčila máličko viacej, nemôžem poprieť, že aj dvojku som si užívala.
Ak máte radi Marvelovky, DC, či iné komiksovky, táto kniha sa vám bude páčiť. Naša hlavná hrdinka MG je veľký nerd do popkultúry, najmä komiksov. Sama pracuje ako grafička komiksov, vďaka jej znalosti príbehu o Golden Arowovi ju minulé leto prizvali k podivnému vyšetrovaniu. Zdá sa, že samozvaný superhrdina, ktorý napodobuje obľúbené komiksy sa opäť vrátil na scénu. MG dostáva ďalšiu šancu zistiť, kto za tým stojí a či je obľúbený príbeh o superhrdinovi bojujúcemu proti drogovému kartelu, založený na skutočných udalostiach. Tvorca Golden Arowa možno nakoniec neumrel prirodzenou smrťou, ale vedel niečo, čo mu zabránili premietnuť do komiksu. Napodobiteľ Golden Arowa je opäť možno vo väčšom nebezpečí než tuší.
Zbožňujem MG, jej uštipačný humor, bystrý pohľad na vec a znepokojivé množstvo vtipu, s akým nám príbeh rozpráva. Dej je nabitý akciou, záhadný, chvíľami s temným nádychom. Vedľajšie postavy sú famózne, MGin najlepší kamarát Lawrence, ktorý vystupuje ako slávna drag queen, nerd spolubývajúci Ryan a nesmieme zabúdať na sexy detektíva Mattea.
Teším sa, že im to s MG klape. Matteo a MG tvoria skvelý pár, sú síce protiklady, no autorka krásne ukázala, že niekedy nemusíme mať spoločné záľuby na to, aby sme sa ľúbili. Aj počas vyšetrovania prípadu boli skvelá dvojka, dopĺňali sa a chémia a dynamika medzi nimi sa perfektne sledovala. Ja na erotike v knihách veľmi nelipnem, no tentokrát mi chýbala nejaká sexy scéna.
A máličko mi prekážalo a celkovo kazilo dojem z knihy to, ako všetci prehliadali úplne očividné veci. Inak to ale bola opäť skvelá jazda a teším sa na zakončenie série.
Ak máte radi Marvelovky, DC, či iné komiksovky, táto kniha sa vám bude páčiť. Naša hlavná hrdinka MG je veľký nerd do popkultúry, najmä komiksov. Sama pracuje ako grafička komiksov, vďaka jej znalosti príbehu o Golden Arowovi ju minulé leto prizvali k podivnému vyšetrovaniu. Zdá sa, že samozvaný superhrdina, ktorý napodobuje obľúbené komiksy sa opäť vrátil na scénu. MG dostáva ďalšiu šancu zistiť, kto za tým stojí a či je obľúbený príbeh o superhrdinovi bojujúcemu proti drogovému kartelu, založený na skutočných udalostiach. Tvorca Golden Arowa možno nakoniec neumrel prirodzenou smrťou, ale vedel niečo, čo mu zabránili premietnuť do komiksu. Napodobiteľ Golden Arowa je opäť možno vo väčšom nebezpečí než tuší.
Zbožňujem MG, jej uštipačný humor, bystrý pohľad na vec a znepokojivé množstvo vtipu, s akým nám príbeh rozpráva. Dej je nabitý akciou, záhadný, chvíľami s temným nádychom. Vedľajšie postavy sú famózne, MGin najlepší kamarát Lawrence, ktorý vystupuje ako slávna drag queen, nerd spolubývajúci Ryan a nesmieme zabúdať na sexy detektíva Mattea.
Teším sa, že im to s MG klape. Matteo a MG tvoria skvelý pár, sú síce protiklady, no autorka krásne ukázala, že niekedy nemusíme mať spoločné záľuby na to, aby sme sa ľúbili. Aj počas vyšetrovania prípadu boli skvelá dvojka, dopĺňali sa a chémia a dynamika medzi nimi sa perfektne sledovala. Ja na erotike v knihách veľmi nelipnem, no tentokrát mi chýbala nejaká sexy scéna.
A máličko mi prekážalo a celkovo kazilo dojem z knihy to, ako všetci prehliadali úplne očividné veci. Inak to ale bola opäť skvelá jazda a teším sa na zakončenie série.
September 23, 2019
MG is back, continuing her super-geeky narration in the same vein as The Frame-Up, Molin's fresh and original romantic-soap-and-superhero flavoured love letter to geek culture. This book didn't grab me as much. It was busy - MG's life is so hectic it's exhausting to read, and many of the plot threads don't resolve in this book and feel like there's an ongoing series being set up. Also there wasn't the same tension - for example, there was supposed to be some romantic threat, but she and Matteo are a fantastic couple, and he's far too level headed to break up just because MG has a commitment freak-out for a bit. I mean, really. (He says from a guy POV ;-) ). We also get some thoughtful ranting about sexism in the comic industry and superhero movies, which is interesting but tangential to the plot as far as I can tell.
So this would be a warm but bland three stars except that there are some great moments buried in it. My favourite is the creepy Alice in Wonderland/Looking Glass themed party thrown by a new drug lord going by the name of the "Queen of Hearts". MG and some of her friends infiltrate it, and the whole setpiece is tense, creepy and unnerving, but dang if the villain doesn't have style. It's a shame they aren't quite as scary as the party sets up - at least in this book.
Will keep a look out for book 3.
So this would be a warm but bland three stars except that there are some great moments buried in it. My favourite is the creepy Alice in Wonderland/Looking Glass themed party thrown by a new drug lord going by the name of the "Queen of Hearts". MG and some of her friends infiltrate it, and the whole setpiece is tense, creepy and unnerving, but dang if the villain doesn't have style. It's a shame they aren't quite as scary as the party sets up - at least in this book.
Will keep a look out for book 3.
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