4.5 stars

This was so atmospheric and engaging! I felt like I was really there with the characters. As someone who doesn't read much mystery or historical fiction, I did not expect to enjoy this as much as I did. I think what made this stand out from other mysteries is that it actually says something and there's a good reason why the main character has to investigate instead of the cops. The adults in the book are also aware of what is going on, which makes it more realistic. The time period also serves a purpose by adding atmosphere and making some the sleuthing the Millie gets up to possible when it would not be in modern day. I also appreciated the balance between recognizing the reality of how queer people and people of color were treated in the time period and keeping the book from being too focused on those things. I wasn't super shocked or blown away by the ending, but I didn't find it as predictable as YA mystery can be sometimes for me. The writing and characters also helped keep me engaged so I would have enjoyed this even if I was not as invested in the mystery itself. This is a great debut and I can't wait to see what Kristin Lambert writes next!