Comparing the drag queen main character in this story, Bubblegum Galaxy, to the drag queen protagonist of an earlier Novak book would be easy, but this author immediately puts her excellent characterization skills to work by making their personalities and general vibes drastically different (in both drag and boy mode). At the same time, I love that this book is set firmly in the extended world this author has created for her books while also working nicely as a stand-alone. The easter eggs and appearances are fun, but you don’t need any of that context to appreciate this sweet romance that doesn’t shy away from addressing real-world issues.
There are hints of “opposites attract” vibes to the relationship that develops between Rory and West, but those are quickly left at the surface level as these men explore their initial chemistry and learn that they might be a perfect match in the ways that matter. In contrast to the immediate and easy spice between them, the gentle way these men fall for each other is delightfully swoony. Though this isn’t a traditional holiday romance, despite the time of year the book is set, it certainly provides the same sweet level of enjoyable feels that make those stories popular.
What keeps this book relevant to any time of year is the nature of the conflicts for the relationship arc and the various external plots. Novak might mine contemporary issues to create realistic problems, but she roots them so firmly in Rory and West’s lived experiences that they never become preachy. This book is a good window into how actual people are affected by certain issues, such as biphobia and the more general discrimination against the queer community.
I’ve always enjoyed Novak’s secondary characters, but even though this isn’t one who will eventually get a book of his own, I want to give a shout-out to Rory’s dad. It can be fun to play the game of calling “dibs” on certain characters, but I want to do the opposite here – Rory’s dad should be everybody’s dad. The heat between Rory and West is fun, but the support Rory receives from his father in this book is even more heartwarming.
Part of the fun of drag queens is the similarities and differences that can come into play between different facets of a single character. Novak captures that so well here, making so much that I learned about Rory a delightful surprise (such as his unexpected day job). I can’t wait to explore more of these amazing, multi-dimensional characters and meet the people who fall for them.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
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