A review by teereadsbooks
Lavender House by Lev AC Rosen

challenging emotional mysterious reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

A queer murder mystery? I didn't know that's something I wanted, but I got it, and I'm glad I did. This story follows Detective Andy Mills in 1952 after he is fired from the police force following him being caught in a raid of a gay bar. He is recruited by Pearl to help solve the real reason behind the death of her partner, Irene. The Lamontaine family is very unique, existing in what appears to be a queer utopia of sorts while also running a soap empire. This story is full of family, both sweet and complicated. There's mystery and intrigue, and lessons of acceptance. We are shown a lot of the realities of queer people during this time, especially queer men, but we also see how some worked so hard to have safe spaces for themselves and others. This really gave off queer, historical Knives Out vibes, and I was here for it. The mystery was fun, and the story felt genuine. Overall, it was a great reading experience.