A Beauty Queen’s Guide to Murder and Mayhem: A Journey Through Glamour and Grit
When I first laid eyes on A Beauty Queen’s Guide to Murder and Mayhem by Kristen Bird, I was instantly intrigued. A beauty pageant serving as the backdrop for a murder mystery? Yes, please! As someone who thrives on a mix of thriller and humor, the premise felt like a refreshing breeze, and I couldn’t wait to dive in, especially as this was my first ARC read. However, while the novel captured my curiosity, it didn’t entirely live up to the sky-high expectations I had built up in my head.
The story follows Dakota Green, a young woman grappling with the recent loss of her mother. Despite her reluctance, she joins the Beauty Pageant of Aubergine, urged on by a letter from her late mother. What initially sounded like a fun ride quickly spirals into a web of mystery when her sweet Aunt Deedee is accused of stealing a crown and, shockingly, linked to a murder. The stakes become even higher as Dakota is not only racing against time to clear her aunt’s name but also trying not to be the next victim on the killer’s list.
From the get-go, Dakota’s character presented mixed impressions for me. While I appreciated her determination and growth, she often struck a “not-like-other-girls” pose that felt a bit cliched and unnecessary. There were moments where her self-righteousness grated on my nerves—but thankfully, she did have some fantastic moments of cleverness and badassery which pulled me back into rooting for her. On the other hand, the side characters truly shone. Lacy and Summer were delightful additions, with their palpable chemistry and loyalty to Dakota. Aunt Deedee had her own charm, adding layers to the familial dynamics that felt authentic and heartfelt.
A significant aspect I enjoyed was the exploration of female friendships, which were heartening to see. Dakota, Summer, and Jemma genuinely uplift each other, avoiding the typical backstabbing trope common in competitive settings. Not to mention, Dakota’s struggle with grief resonated deeply, adding emotional weight that often made me pause and reflect.
When it comes to writing style, Kristen Bird weaves humor and intrigue into her prose, making it an enjoyable read overall. However, the pacing is where I struggled. The first half of the book crawls along at a snail’s pace, leaving me itching for action until the 60% mark when it finally picks up. It felt like a rollercoaster slowly climbing its way to an exhilarating plunge, but when it did, the twists truly took my breath away. I may have guessed a few outcomes, but the final twist was stunningly unexpected, leaving me utterly flabbergasted.
Despite some pacing issues and the occasional plot hole, A Beauty Queen’s Guide to Murder and Mayhem is an entertaining romp through a quirky yet relatable narrative. For those who enjoy clever mysteries intertwined with heartfelt emotions and enjoy a dash of humor, this book will resonate. It’s perfect for readers looking for something light that still probes deeper into characters’ struggle and resilience—highlighting that while “beauty is pain,” the story’s heart beats as a testament to strength and friendship.
If you’re in the mood for a quick, witty, and adventurous read, I recommend diving into Dakota Green’s world. You might find yourself caught in the melodrama of pageantry—and perhaps even cheer for the charming characters along the way!
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