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The Court #3
Baby Queen
Note to self: falling for the new queen you're mentoring will only lead to trouble.
Being broke, single, and homeless after winning the UK's biggest drag show wasn't how my life was supposed to go. I’m meant to be the one with everything, but thanks to an unscrupulous tour company I've got nothing but my image and a mountain of debt.
Moving back home with my mum and taking the first gig I’m offered in a local drag panto is supposed to help me get back on my feet, but meeting Colin tangles me up more than ever.
Colin desperately wants to start doing drag and suddenly I'm helping a baby queen find her feet while falling head over heels for the man behind the lashes.
We all know mixing these power dynamics is a recipe for trouble, but my life is already a mess. Will falling for Colin really spell disaster or is he the only thing keeping me upright in my seven-inch heels?
Being broke, single, and homeless after winning the UK's biggest drag show wasn't how my life was supposed to go. I’m meant to be the one with everything, but thanks to an unscrupulous tour company I've got nothing but my image and a mountain of debt.
Moving back home with my mum and taking the first gig I’m offered in a local drag panto is supposed to help me get back on my feet, but meeting Colin tangles me up more than ever.
Colin desperately wants to start doing drag and suddenly I'm helping a baby queen find her feet while falling head over heels for the man behind the lashes.
We all know mixing these power dynamics is a recipe for trouble, but my life is already a mess. Will falling for Colin really spell disaster or is he the only thing keeping me upright in my seven-inch heels?
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 23, 2024
57 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Charlie Novak
64 books590 followersCharlie lives in England with her husband and a dachshund named Biscuit. She spends most of her days wrangling other people’s words in her day job and then trying to force her own onto the page in the evening.
She loves cute stories with a healthy dollop of fluff, plenty of delicious sex, and happily ever afters – because the world needs more of them. Charlie also believes that love comes in all shapes and sizes.
Charlie has very little spare time, but what she does have she fills with cooking, pole-dancing, reading and ice-hockey. She also thinks that everyone should have at least one favourite dinosaur…
She loves cute stories with a healthy dollop of fluff, plenty of delicious sex, and happily ever afters – because the world needs more of them. Charlie also believes that love comes in all shapes and sizes.
Charlie has very little spare time, but what she does have she fills with cooking, pole-dancing, reading and ice-hockey. She also thinks that everyone should have at least one favourite dinosaur…
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
May 5, 2024
This is the best one yet in this quite excellent series.
I've loved each of Charlies' Drag Queens for various reasons but Anthony, aka Barbie Summers winner of Drag Stars UK's fifth series, has definitely stolen my heart because the poor man is suffering from a situation that he had no hand in making other than because he was a good guy.
This situation where creative people are often stiffed by unscrupulous agents or tour managers is sadly quite common and I think the issue is handled incredible well and with a sympathetic understanding of how it can affect the conned person.
When Anthony has to return home, almost penniless and with a huge debt hanging over him from the amount of drag gear he had to purchase just to take part in the show, he's demoralised and unsure about his future.
Being introduced to Colin, a PhD student who's wanting to take his first steps into drag, gives him something to focus on - and soon - something to look forward to.
Colin is shy but he has a hidden strength that comes out the more time he spends with Anthony and, as they discover their attraction is mutual, he starts to realise there's something that his Drag Mother's hiding.
This book has such sweet moments, some seriously steamy ones too, as both Anthony and Colin open up to each other, learning each others' vulnerabilities and exploring a potential future neither had thought about.
This is definitely my favourite, although I also loved the first two books, because it shows how even a successful Drag Queen, briming with confidence from that persona, can be affected by doubts and feel residual guilt over something they weren't responsible for.
I also loved it because of Colin, who is such a joy to watch navigate his first baby Drag steps, all the while dealing with his shy nature, and discovering his confidence growing the more he gets involved.
Together they're just perfect for each other, it may start with simple attraction, but very quickly they realise they've found something special.
I loved seeing all the other Queens and Kings of The Court, plus some guest mentions of people in Charlie's wider universe, and it's always a pleasure to have Bitch Fit in a book, Eli is one of my absolute favourite characters.
I'm dying for more in this series and very eagerly waiting for the first instalment of another spin-off series featuring West's rugby union teammates!
#ARC kindly receive from the author via Foreword PR. I am voluntarily leaving a review
I've loved each of Charlies' Drag Queens for various reasons but Anthony, aka Barbie Summers winner of Drag Stars UK's fifth series, has definitely stolen my heart because the poor man is suffering from a situation that he had no hand in making other than because he was a good guy.
This situation where creative people are often stiffed by unscrupulous agents or tour managers is sadly quite common and I think the issue is handled incredible well and with a sympathetic understanding of how it can affect the conned person.
When Anthony has to return home, almost penniless and with a huge debt hanging over him from the amount of drag gear he had to purchase just to take part in the show, he's demoralised and unsure about his future.
Being introduced to Colin, a PhD student who's wanting to take his first steps into drag, gives him something to focus on - and soon - something to look forward to.
Colin is shy but he has a hidden strength that comes out the more time he spends with Anthony and, as they discover their attraction is mutual, he starts to realise there's something that his Drag Mother's hiding.
This book has such sweet moments, some seriously steamy ones too, as both Anthony and Colin open up to each other, learning each others' vulnerabilities and exploring a potential future neither had thought about.
This is definitely my favourite, although I also loved the first two books, because it shows how even a successful Drag Queen, briming with confidence from that persona, can be affected by doubts and feel residual guilt over something they weren't responsible for.
I also loved it because of Colin, who is such a joy to watch navigate his first baby Drag steps, all the while dealing with his shy nature, and discovering his confidence growing the more he gets involved.
Together they're just perfect for each other, it may start with simple attraction, but very quickly they realise they've found something special.
I loved seeing all the other Queens and Kings of The Court, plus some guest mentions of people in Charlie's wider universe, and it's always a pleasure to have Bitch Fit in a book, Eli is one of my absolute favourite characters.
I'm dying for more in this series and very eagerly waiting for the first instalment of another spin-off series featuring West's rugby union teammates!
#ARC kindly receive from the author via Foreword PR. I am voluntarily leaving a review
May 20, 2024
☆ Drag Queens
☆ Drag mother x Drag daughter
☆ Found Family
4.25/5⭐️
Colin is a PhD student in mathematics who dreams of becoming a drag queen. He instantly won my heart with his charm and cuteness. Despite his insecurities and feeling intimidated by queens like Barbie Summers, his genuine nature shines through and he will slowly make his place into The Court.
Anthony, also known as Barbie Summers, reveals a vulnerable side that contrasts with his public persona as a successful drag queen. I loved how Colin supported him and helped him regain his confidence. Their relationship is so sweet and adorable, but also empowering, as they both grow and find strength in each other's presence. I loved seeing them fall in love, their chemistry was undeniable from the start.
I also loved seeing the little group of drag queens again, with their friends and partners. They created a supportive and lovable community and I adore all of them.
Baby Queen was another great read in this series I’m obsessed with. I highly recommend it, especially if you enjoy drag shows and the drag universe. There is no angst, only love and support, and it’s what makes it very enjoyable.
[ɪ ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀɴ ᴀʀᴄ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜɪꜱ ɪꜱ ᴍʏ ʜᴏɴᴇꜱᴛ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ]
☆ Drag mother x Drag daughter
☆ Found Family
4.25/5⭐️
Colin is a PhD student in mathematics who dreams of becoming a drag queen. He instantly won my heart with his charm and cuteness. Despite his insecurities and feeling intimidated by queens like Barbie Summers, his genuine nature shines through and he will slowly make his place into The Court.
Anthony, also known as Barbie Summers, reveals a vulnerable side that contrasts with his public persona as a successful drag queen. I loved how Colin supported him and helped him regain his confidence. Their relationship is so sweet and adorable, but also empowering, as they both grow and find strength in each other's presence. I loved seeing them fall in love, their chemistry was undeniable from the start.
I also loved seeing the little group of drag queens again, with their friends and partners. They created a supportive and lovable community and I adore all of them.
Baby Queen was another great read in this series I’m obsessed with. I highly recommend it, especially if you enjoy drag shows and the drag universe. There is no angst, only love and support, and it’s what makes it very enjoyable.
[ɪ ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀɴ ᴀʀᴄ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜɪꜱ ɪꜱ ᴍʏ ʜᴏɴᴇꜱᴛ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ]
December 17, 2024
Loved this! Sometimes I dislike when an author has so many cross overs and so many past characters pop up in books, but for some reason I absolutely love it when this author does it. Her whole universe is so much fun to read and I get so happy when old characters pop up.
Read
May 23, 2024I am loving this series and honestly, I think Baby Queen is my favourite story since Eli's... the sweet men, the outside drama, the genuine friendship and mutual respect and of course, the escalating steam! I love the found family aspect of this story and how wonderful this particular group of queens is rings through.
I loved watching the growing confidence that Colin experiences as a baby queen and watching Anthony rebuild his confidence and faith.. with a bit of fake it til you make it mentality...
I do think you can read this as standalone, but honestly, it's best read as part of The Court universe in order.
I loved watching the growing confidence that Colin experiences as a baby queen and watching Anthony rebuild his confidence and faith.. with a bit of fake it til you make it mentality...
I do think you can read this as standalone, but honestly, it's best read as part of The Court universe in order.
June 5, 2024
I won this book in a giveaway. I was thrilled to get my hands on this book. The premise was fascinating. Anthony moved back home after being swindled of his earnings on a traveling drag show. Colin was a newbie that wanted to learn to be a great drag queen. With Anthony’s (Barbie) help Colin grew confidence to be Sugar Pill. Together they learned so much about each other’s past and fall in love in the process.
My only hmm moments that they were a lot of characters and names that I was a bit confused. Some of the characters sounded like others and I couldn’t distinguish between them.
Also this was book three. I didn’t read the first two so I definitely recommend reading the first two books.
Overall, it was a sweet and spicy love story.
My only hmm moments that they were a lot of characters and names that I was a bit confused. Some of the characters sounded like others and I couldn’t distinguish between them.
Also this was book three. I didn’t read the first two so I definitely recommend reading the first two books.
Overall, it was a sweet and spicy love story.
December 19, 2024
4.5 stars.
Loved it 😍
Circumstances have successful drag queen Anthony (aka Barbie Summers) back living with his mother in his childhood bedroom. A bedroom that is bursting at the seams with not only the things he could bring from his flat but the many boxes of drag paraphernalia as well.
Colin is busy with his studies for a PHD, is an introvert and lacks in self confidence. He has a love of pole dancing and a desire to explore the drag scene but doesn’t really know where to start.
When Anthony takes him under his wing a whole new world is opened and this world and Anthony is where Colin (aka Sugar Pill) feels he truly belongs.
Their attraction to each other and the chemistry between them is undeniable and it’s not long before they trust their feelings for each other and embark on a steamy relationship. Whilst both of these wonderful men navigate their way to their HEA their individual crushed self belief and self confidence is slowly improved until they become the men they were always meant to be.
This is a very enjoyable and engaging read with minimal relationship angst but there is some angst from external forces. The main character development and growth is perfectly paced, plenty of fun witty banter and of course the characters from previous books in the series are there as well to keep things interesting.
Loved it 😍
Circumstances have successful drag queen Anthony (aka Barbie Summers) back living with his mother in his childhood bedroom. A bedroom that is bursting at the seams with not only the things he could bring from his flat but the many boxes of drag paraphernalia as well.
Colin is busy with his studies for a PHD, is an introvert and lacks in self confidence. He has a love of pole dancing and a desire to explore the drag scene but doesn’t really know where to start.
When Anthony takes him under his wing a whole new world is opened and this world and Anthony is where Colin (aka Sugar Pill) feels he truly belongs.
Their attraction to each other and the chemistry between them is undeniable and it’s not long before they trust their feelings for each other and embark on a steamy relationship. Whilst both of these wonderful men navigate their way to their HEA their individual crushed self belief and self confidence is slowly improved until they become the men they were always meant to be.
This is a very enjoyable and engaging read with minimal relationship angst but there is some angst from external forces. The main character development and growth is perfectly paced, plenty of fun witty banter and of course the characters from previous books in the series are there as well to keep things interesting.
May 23, 2024
4.5 Stars
A sweet romance that glistened with sparkles, and glitter. Ms. Novak creates a fun community of drag queens that are interesting both on and off the stage. The story was an enjoyable read that had a serious undertone, but also many warm, and accepting moments. This is book three of the Court Series, and it might help to read the others, but I believe it could be a standalone.
Anthony’s drag persona is Barbie Summers. She was riding high for quite a while selling out her shows and winning a season of Drag Stars UK, then a betrayal made Anthony feel he lost it all.
He has returned to his hometown and plans to stay with his supportive mom until he can regroup. Anthony is full of self-loathing and feels like a failure. He is a hard-working, decent man that blames himself for his unfortunate setback.
Anthony ends up visiting the Court to meet the drag performers as Barbie Summers. She feels confident, and fierce, and pushes the hurt and depression aside. Barbie Summers is a rock star to the members of the Court and they are thrilled. She is considering performing there while visiting and meets a nervous young man that wants to do drag but is unsure of himself. Barbie Summers offers to mentor Colin much to his delighted shock.
Colin is too adorable for words. He is smart but also lacks self-confidence. He enjoys hanging out with Anthony and the two realize there is a strong chemistry between them. They become more than friends, and I loved how there was no angst in a relationship that helped both men heal.
This is a book that I recommend, and hope you enjoy the larger than life view of drag and the amazing people that pour their hearts, and souls into their craft. Happy reading.
**Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement.**
A sweet romance that glistened with sparkles, and glitter. Ms. Novak creates a fun community of drag queens that are interesting both on and off the stage. The story was an enjoyable read that had a serious undertone, but also many warm, and accepting moments. This is book three of the Court Series, and it might help to read the others, but I believe it could be a standalone.
Anthony’s drag persona is Barbie Summers. She was riding high for quite a while selling out her shows and winning a season of Drag Stars UK, then a betrayal made Anthony feel he lost it all.
He has returned to his hometown and plans to stay with his supportive mom until he can regroup. Anthony is full of self-loathing and feels like a failure. He is a hard-working, decent man that blames himself for his unfortunate setback.
Anthony ends up visiting the Court to meet the drag performers as Barbie Summers. She feels confident, and fierce, and pushes the hurt and depression aside. Barbie Summers is a rock star to the members of the Court and they are thrilled. She is considering performing there while visiting and meets a nervous young man that wants to do drag but is unsure of himself. Barbie Summers offers to mentor Colin much to his delighted shock.
Colin is too adorable for words. He is smart but also lacks self-confidence. He enjoys hanging out with Anthony and the two realize there is a strong chemistry between them. They become more than friends, and I loved how there was no angst in a relationship that helped both men heal.
This is a book that I recommend, and hope you enjoy the larger than life view of drag and the amazing people that pour their hearts, and souls into their craft. Happy reading.
**Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement.**
May 5, 2024
What an amazing new story in this drag queen universe, it was adorable to follow Colin’s drag journey and see him becoming the drag queen he dreamed of being. His relationship with his drag mother Barbie Summers (aka Anthony out of drag) was a mix of friendship and mentorship, and Colin couldn’t dismiss how much he loves Anthony, as the man he is 🩷
Barbie Summers had everything a drag queen could dream of, she won the competition, went touring, etc. Now broke and disappointed in himself, Anthony is back in his hometown where he tries to put back his life together. From then after meeting Colin, he realises that he cannot résiste the tall and sweet baby queen who is also new in town and looking for tips to become a drag queen. Taking him under his wing, a deep bond starts to bloom between them, but the question is should Anthony act on it, should he seduce the one who will become his drag daughter?
Colin is sweet, charming and a little shy, I just loved his whole persona and seeing him with Anthony and giving exactly what he needed to feel better, they’re part of the same piece fitting together perfectly. It was light, sweet, beautiful and I had a wonderful time reading their story.
Love all of these drag queens, sooo excited for Mason and Ryan, yes for more rugby players and obvi loved all the cameos.
I received an ARC Copy of this book from Foreword PR, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
Barbie Summers had everything a drag queen could dream of, she won the competition, went touring, etc. Now broke and disappointed in himself, Anthony is back in his hometown where he tries to put back his life together. From then after meeting Colin, he realises that he cannot résiste the tall and sweet baby queen who is also new in town and looking for tips to become a drag queen. Taking him under his wing, a deep bond starts to bloom between them, but the question is should Anthony act on it, should he seduce the one who will become his drag daughter?
Colin is sweet, charming and a little shy, I just loved his whole persona and seeing him with Anthony and giving exactly what he needed to feel better, they’re part of the same piece fitting together perfectly. It was light, sweet, beautiful and I had a wonderful time reading their story.
Love all of these drag queens, sooo excited for Mason and Ryan, yes for more rugby players and obvi loved all the cameos.
I received an ARC Copy of this book from Foreword PR, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
May 19, 2024
These queens are gorgeous and powerful!
Anthony (aka Barbie Summers) is impressively resilient. Despite having being scammed by her ex agent and the tour company that should have given this Queen everything after she won the last edition of Drag Race, Anthony finds himself penniless and back living with his mum. And despite the first few months are hard and he sort of (deservedly) retreats in himself to lick his wound, he soon finds his way towards The Court, and the drag scene he loves so much and even mentoring the new Baby Queen of the group.
Colin (aka Sugar Pills) is a study in contrast. A student, doing his PhD in Mathematics who loves pole dancing and is chomping at the bit to try drag. With a little push from his friend and the loving mentoring from Barbie, a new queen is born.
The attraction and connection between the two men is impossible to resist and they have to find a balance between the mentoring aspect and their relationship.
This book is very sweet and super steamy, with snark as only queens can dish out!
Anthony (aka Barbie Summers) is impressively resilient. Despite having being scammed by her ex agent and the tour company that should have given this Queen everything after she won the last edition of Drag Race, Anthony finds himself penniless and back living with his mum. And despite the first few months are hard and he sort of (deservedly) retreats in himself to lick his wound, he soon finds his way towards The Court, and the drag scene he loves so much and even mentoring the new Baby Queen of the group.
Colin (aka Sugar Pills) is a study in contrast. A student, doing his PhD in Mathematics who loves pole dancing and is chomping at the bit to try drag. With a little push from his friend and the loving mentoring from Barbie, a new queen is born.
The attraction and connection between the two men is impossible to resist and they have to find a balance between the mentoring aspect and their relationship.
This book is very sweet and super steamy, with snark as only queens can dish out!
May 24, 2024
Baby Queen is the third book in The Court series by Charlie Novak. This is the story of Anthony/Barbie Summer and Colin. I loved their story. It was sweet, full of feels and very well written. I love the Court!
August 20, 2024
3.5 stars
June 5, 2024
Audio Update
The amazingly talented Dan Calley brought this beautiful book to life! Colin & Anthony are just so dang sweet together and just work. Dan ad usual made an already well written book better with his work. When these two are paired together, they will always be an instant buy for me.
First off, these two are the sweetest drag queens ever and were made to be in the others orbit. Colin is a baby queen looking to enter the world of drag. Anthony, aka Barbie Summers, is fresh off a win of Drag Queens UK, who is instantly drawn to Colin. Both men have been burned from partners in the past, making their confidence falter, but with the others' support, they are able to flourish.
Charlie, as with other stories of this series, shows the downsides of the drag community. Anthony was taken advantage of after winning and now has to rebuild himself as well as his confidence in and out of drag. With the support of Colin, his best friend Maddie, and his new family, the queens of the Court, he is able to do just that. These two are so dang adorable that you can't help but want to squish them equally.
The amazingly talented Dan Calley brought this beautiful book to life! Colin & Anthony are just so dang sweet together and just work. Dan ad usual made an already well written book better with his work. When these two are paired together, they will always be an instant buy for me.
First off, these two are the sweetest drag queens ever and were made to be in the others orbit. Colin is a baby queen looking to enter the world of drag. Anthony, aka Barbie Summers, is fresh off a win of Drag Queens UK, who is instantly drawn to Colin. Both men have been burned from partners in the past, making their confidence falter, but with the others' support, they are able to flourish.
Charlie, as with other stories of this series, shows the downsides of the drag community. Anthony was taken advantage of after winning and now has to rebuild himself as well as his confidence in and out of drag. With the support of Colin, his best friend Maddie, and his new family, the queens of the Court, he is able to do just that. These two are so dang adorable that you can't help but want to squish them equally.
May 28, 2024
I am struggling with this one a lot. I love the series as a whole, but this book was missing something.
As a character driven reader, I need the characters to breath life into the book and connect me to the story. I didn't feel that connection with Colin & Anthony. Their connection didn't feel all that believable and there was a lot of needless opinions from others at the beginning of the book and that felt like the only issue they had an ultimately it was wasted story because nothing became of it and there was no angst or issues from any of the other characters.
As a character driven reader, I need the characters to breath life into the book and connect me to the story. I didn't feel that connection with Colin & Anthony. Their connection didn't feel all that believable and there was a lot of needless opinions from others at the beginning of the book and that felt like the only issue they had an ultimately it was wasted story because nothing became of it and there was no angst or issues from any of the other characters.
August 24, 2024
This hurts. I absolutely LOVE the other two books in this series, but this one is a slog. I'm 90 pages in, and I just... don't care? I was REALLY looking forward to Colin's book, but right now I don't feel like I really know him, and Anthony is just kinda... floundering?
I'm going to keep picking away at this because I REALLY want to like it, but if not, I'm skipping to the end, and calling this one an anomaly then moving on to whatever Charlie releases next!
I'm going to keep picking away at this because I REALLY want to like it, but if not, I'm skipping to the end, and calling this one an anomaly then moving on to whatever Charlie releases next!
October 20, 2024
This ended up being another great installment in this series. This is a VERY low angst read just like all the other books this author puts out so if your not a fan then this isn’t for you especially if you like a bit of drama or conflict since this has basically zero conflict between our two main characters.
With that said I really did enjoy my time getting to know both Anthony aka Barbie Summer and Colin aka Sugar Pill. We have met both of them in the previous book and even though we only saw glimpses of them I was so excited to see how this relationship between a mentor and her student would go.
Anthony moved back home after some really hard and terrible things happened in London and without being able to afford where he was living had to move back home with his mom. Through this he ends up meeting Colin a PHD student wanting to get into drag for the first time. Also having just moved to the area to get a fresh start after some life changes.
I loved seeing these two meet and start up a friendship, finding connection and comfort with someone that was currently going through life changes as well. It seemed they were automatically drawn to each other. Maybe at first on Anthony side attraction towards Colin but whatever it seem it was made them want to know each other better.
This was a sweet friendship to lovers story and I loved them becoming friends and being a support system for each other. With not having a lot of friends in the area this was nice for the both of them. When things started progressing towards lovers it was gradually and steadily growing naturally. I loved that they talked about how this would affect how people in the drag community will look at them. With Anthony being Colin’s mentor and everything. Didn’t want anyone to think he was sleeping his way in or anything of the matter. Even with all that Colin worked his ass off to prove himself and that he can be with Anthony and keep their drag careers separate whenever working. I really did love the communication when they eventually got around to it.
I really enjoyed seeing the gang together again and one of the best things about this author is all the easter eggs she puts into her books from previous ones and it just makes it that much more fun. All the characters are great and even all the new ones we meet as well. Even though this book didn’t have a lot in terms of drama or conflicts it was still super sweet and I enjoyed my time seeing all the cute moments between Anthony and Colin. I especially loved the spicy scenes, so good!
Overall this was another sweet story and glad I got around to reading it finally. I can’t wait to see where else this author decides to take this series and everything to come afterwards as well. Can’t wait to meet more drag queens in the future!
With that said I really did enjoy my time getting to know both Anthony aka Barbie Summer and Colin aka Sugar Pill. We have met both of them in the previous book and even though we only saw glimpses of them I was so excited to see how this relationship between a mentor and her student would go.
Anthony moved back home after some really hard and terrible things happened in London and without being able to afford where he was living had to move back home with his mom. Through this he ends up meeting Colin a PHD student wanting to get into drag for the first time. Also having just moved to the area to get a fresh start after some life changes.
I loved seeing these two meet and start up a friendship, finding connection and comfort with someone that was currently going through life changes as well. It seemed they were automatically drawn to each other. Maybe at first on Anthony side attraction towards Colin but whatever it seem it was made them want to know each other better.
This was a sweet friendship to lovers story and I loved them becoming friends and being a support system for each other. With not having a lot of friends in the area this was nice for the both of them. When things started progressing towards lovers it was gradually and steadily growing naturally. I loved that they talked about how this would affect how people in the drag community will look at them. With Anthony being Colin’s mentor and everything. Didn’t want anyone to think he was sleeping his way in or anything of the matter. Even with all that Colin worked his ass off to prove himself and that he can be with Anthony and keep their drag careers separate whenever working. I really did love the communication when they eventually got around to it.
I really enjoyed seeing the gang together again and one of the best things about this author is all the easter eggs she puts into her books from previous ones and it just makes it that much more fun. All the characters are great and even all the new ones we meet as well. Even though this book didn’t have a lot in terms of drama or conflicts it was still super sweet and I enjoyed my time seeing all the cute moments between Anthony and Colin. I especially loved the spicy scenes, so good!
Overall this was another sweet story and glad I got around to reading it finally. I can’t wait to see where else this author decides to take this series and everything to come afterwards as well. Can’t wait to meet more drag queens in the future!
May 24, 2024
well written story, fantastic characters that keep the reader engaged, a favorite story
Rating: 4.5🌈
The Court, a series, a drag family ,and fabulous old theatre that’s the home to all three, has just gotten even better with the latest addition of it’s new novel and group of characters. It’s definitely my favorite to date in so many ways.
Novak’s main characters come from the opposite ends of the Drag Queen story. One is a recognized star! Barbie Summers, a winner of Drag Stars UK but due to some criminal management and her own naivety has had to return home full of debt and heartbreak. The other? A baby Queen, without a name or anything but a vague idea about her identity, needing guidance and the support to find her own way.
That’s the Queens. And we will get all the others who work, laugh, and snark as family at The Court. Eva Nessence, Bubblegum Galaxy, Moxxie Toxxic, the Twins, I love them all.
But there’s also who these people are when they aren’t in drag. And the chapters designate them as such. Barbie/Anthony and Colin/? have ex boyfriends who have left them with emotional scars, poor body imagery, and so much doubt about themselves and their self worth. That’s the journey that’s woven through their stories as both struggle with finding an identity as a Queen (Colin), renewed faith for her profession (Barbie), and a layered great loving relationship between them.
It’s got pole dancing, Queens, PhD’s in jizz, so much laughter and tears and love. What a great story to read.
Novak introduces quite a few new fascinating characters, seen only in glimpses. But it’s enough for me to want to know more about them. So much more.
It was fun seeing characters from the Heather Bay series (Like I Pretended) make appearances in a couple of ways here. Might have to reread the book again.
And Novak is going to give the readers another connected series,
Lincoln Knights Rugby Club, when Mason and Ryan (Legs ) get their HEA in The Tighthead.
Then hopefully it’s back to more Queens.
I highly recommend this series and book. It’s such a joyous read. And a grand group of characters to watch get their HEA.
The Court:
✅Drama Queen #1
✅Scene Queen #2
✅Baby Queen #3
Connected series:
Heather Bay series - 6 books
Lincoln Knights Rugby Club:
The Tighthead - July 2024
Rating: 4.5🌈
The Court, a series, a drag family ,and fabulous old theatre that’s the home to all three, has just gotten even better with the latest addition of it’s new novel and group of characters. It’s definitely my favorite to date in so many ways.
Novak’s main characters come from the opposite ends of the Drag Queen story. One is a recognized star! Barbie Summers, a winner of Drag Stars UK but due to some criminal management and her own naivety has had to return home full of debt and heartbreak. The other? A baby Queen, without a name or anything but a vague idea about her identity, needing guidance and the support to find her own way.
That’s the Queens. And we will get all the others who work, laugh, and snark as family at The Court. Eva Nessence, Bubblegum Galaxy, Moxxie Toxxic, the Twins, I love them all.
But there’s also who these people are when they aren’t in drag. And the chapters designate them as such. Barbie/Anthony and Colin/? have ex boyfriends who have left them with emotional scars, poor body imagery, and so much doubt about themselves and their self worth. That’s the journey that’s woven through their stories as both struggle with finding an identity as a Queen (Colin), renewed faith for her profession (Barbie), and a layered great loving relationship between them.
It’s got pole dancing, Queens, PhD’s in jizz, so much laughter and tears and love. What a great story to read.
Novak introduces quite a few new fascinating characters, seen only in glimpses. But it’s enough for me to want to know more about them. So much more.
It was fun seeing characters from the Heather Bay series (Like I Pretended) make appearances in a couple of ways here. Might have to reread the book again.
And Novak is going to give the readers another connected series,
Lincoln Knights Rugby Club, when Mason and Ryan (Legs ) get their HEA in The Tighthead.
Then hopefully it’s back to more Queens.
I highly recommend this series and book. It’s such a joyous read. And a grand group of characters to watch get their HEA.
The Court:
✅Drama Queen #1
✅Scene Queen #2
✅Baby Queen #3
Connected series:
Heather Bay series - 6 books
Lincoln Knights Rugby Club:
The Tighthead - July 2024
June 9, 2024
Charlie once again excels in this latest book in the series. I liked and enjoyed the previous books, but this one exceeded my expectations. I loved how Charlie explores the murky world of Drag Queens, we all think it is glitz and glamour and a wonderful life and don’t think of how they can be exploited for their talent and fame and the aftermath this exploitation leaves behind.
Anthony has gone from the highest highs, winning Drag Stars UK he finds himself broke, in a mountain of debt and having to move back in with his Mum. I found the portrayal of his state of mind to be compelling all the negative emotions he has, as he struggles to come to grips with what has happened and what he needs to do. His self-doubt, was it his fault, should he have realised what was happening. All the negative emotions to deal with.
Then Colin comes bursting into his life, like a ray of sunshine, eager to start drag. Uncertain and unsure testing out makeup and looks but not convinced he is making the right choices. Two very unlikely people, both outsiders in the area but together they form a strong friendship and maybe a bit more.
When Barbie Summers decided to make Colin her Baby Queen and take her under her wing, she couldn’t have seen what this decision would lead to. Colin, on the face of it, seems like a scholarly nerd, doing a PHd at the university but he is exceptional in his pole dancing classes and dreams of getting up on stage as a Drag Queen.
Watching the friendship between Colin and Anthony develop was magical, as Anthony builds his confidence and helps Colin find his Drag self. In return Colin helps Anthony realise how much he misses being Barbie Summers and how he never wants to give her up.
It was great to see old friends from the other books pop up and get involved, offering Barbie Summers friendship and acceptance. Embracing Colin into the tightknit Drag Community and giving her advice, encouragement, and friendship.
This book tugs on the heartstrings for all Barbie Summers achieved and lost due to trusting unscrupulous people but it is also a feel-good book. The romance between Colin and Anthony was wonderful, not forced but natural, evolving from their strong friendship. This is my favourite book of the series so far.
Anthony has gone from the highest highs, winning Drag Stars UK he finds himself broke, in a mountain of debt and having to move back in with his Mum. I found the portrayal of his state of mind to be compelling all the negative emotions he has, as he struggles to come to grips with what has happened and what he needs to do. His self-doubt, was it his fault, should he have realised what was happening. All the negative emotions to deal with.
Then Colin comes bursting into his life, like a ray of sunshine, eager to start drag. Uncertain and unsure testing out makeup and looks but not convinced he is making the right choices. Two very unlikely people, both outsiders in the area but together they form a strong friendship and maybe a bit more.
When Barbie Summers decided to make Colin her Baby Queen and take her under her wing, she couldn’t have seen what this decision would lead to. Colin, on the face of it, seems like a scholarly nerd, doing a PHd at the university but he is exceptional in his pole dancing classes and dreams of getting up on stage as a Drag Queen.
Watching the friendship between Colin and Anthony develop was magical, as Anthony builds his confidence and helps Colin find his Drag self. In return Colin helps Anthony realise how much he misses being Barbie Summers and how he never wants to give her up.
It was great to see old friends from the other books pop up and get involved, offering Barbie Summers friendship and acceptance. Embracing Colin into the tightknit Drag Community and giving her advice, encouragement, and friendship.
This book tugs on the heartstrings for all Barbie Summers achieved and lost due to trusting unscrupulous people but it is also a feel-good book. The romance between Colin and Anthony was wonderful, not forced but natural, evolving from their strong friendship. This is my favourite book of the series so far.
June 3, 2024
4.25 Stars!
I enjoyed this story. If you've been reading this series, you might remember meeting Colin in Scene Queen, but no worries if you don't remember or haven't started reading the series yet. Colin and Anthony/Barbie Summers are new to the crew at The Court, so you could almost read this as a standalone. The only reason I might suggest reading the other books (besides being great reads) is so you have a better sense of all the other characters that pop up.
I liked getting to know Colin; watching him developing his drag persona was really cool. As for Anthony, I really felt for him. What happened to him was awful, but I was glad that taking part in the show Bitch Fit was putting together and getting to know everyone at The Court helped him through this rough patch. It was fantastic seeing Anthony take Colin under his wing and become his drag mother. Anthony's subtle guidance was just what Colin needed. Their friendship was beautiful to see grow. Their deepening feelings and attraction could have made things complicated, but they did a good job in addressing the situation without waiting too long. I was glad that they talked and sorted out how they wanted to handle everything and that Anthony finally told Colin about everything. I loved seeing Colin and Anthony moving forward together in and out of drag. I was proud when Anthony reached out for help and when Barbie Summers stood up for her fellow drag queens.
The other characters in this book were great to see again. I loved how Edward subtly helped Barbie Summers feel more at home with everyone at The Court. Rhys and Ianto's antics were fun as always and Eli/Bitch Fit was his fabulous self. Anthony's best friend Maddi was a great addition to the cast of characters. I can't wait to read the next one in this series and the author's upcoming book The Tighthead, which will have Ryan/Legs Luthor in it.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
I enjoyed this story. If you've been reading this series, you might remember meeting Colin in Scene Queen, but no worries if you don't remember or haven't started reading the series yet. Colin and Anthony/Barbie Summers are new to the crew at The Court, so you could almost read this as a standalone. The only reason I might suggest reading the other books (besides being great reads) is so you have a better sense of all the other characters that pop up.
I liked getting to know Colin; watching him developing his drag persona was really cool. As for Anthony, I really felt for him. What happened to him was awful, but I was glad that taking part in the show Bitch Fit was putting together and getting to know everyone at The Court helped him through this rough patch. It was fantastic seeing Anthony take Colin under his wing and become his drag mother. Anthony's subtle guidance was just what Colin needed. Their friendship was beautiful to see grow. Their deepening feelings and attraction could have made things complicated, but they did a good job in addressing the situation without waiting too long. I was glad that they talked and sorted out how they wanted to handle everything and that Anthony finally told Colin about everything. I loved seeing Colin and Anthony moving forward together in and out of drag. I was proud when Anthony reached out for help and when Barbie Summers stood up for her fellow drag queens.
The other characters in this book were great to see again. I loved how Edward subtly helped Barbie Summers feel more at home with everyone at The Court. Rhys and Ianto's antics were fun as always and Eli/Bitch Fit was his fabulous self. Anthony's best friend Maddi was a great addition to the cast of characters. I can't wait to read the next one in this series and the author's upcoming book The Tighthead, which will have Ryan/Legs Luthor in it.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
May 24, 2024
I’ve loved this series, The Court. What’s not to love? Drag Queens, characters from the Forever Love series, Heather Bay series AND the Kiss Me series all make appearances because so many characters are connected to each other in various ways. I love checking in on them.
And yet, two new characters! Ok, sort of. Colin is the best friend of Ianto and Rhys, as much as you can be best friends with identical twins who are super tight. He’s our Baby Queen. A PhD student who does pole and wants to become a drag queen. FUN!
And then we meet Barbie Summers (a nod to Buffy Summers?), aka Anthony. She won a drag reality show and was fairly famous, but got screwed by her manager. So Anthony is home from London and shows up at The Court just when Colin does. Kismet for Barbie Summers to take on a drag daughter.
Here’s my single complaint- not enough learning to be a drag queen. Colin was far from a makeup pro and Barbie helps, but I wanted to see Colin do it and be proud. Just little things like that. But that being said, it was still a great book.
Barbie/Anthony and Colin (I won’t give away his drag name) just had chemistry right from the start. What I would call fast friends. They just clicked and spent a lot of time becoming friends. And ramping up the sexual tension.
Barbie grapples with coming to terms with everything in his life while also fighting his growing feelings for Colin. Barbie’s friend and mentor does not want him to get involved with Colin. But the heart wants what the heart wants, amirite?
There are lots of laughs, of course. Many around the subject of Colin’s PhD studies. Because how could you not? But it was also very sweet, very sexy and very fun.
This is an excellent addition to the series. I hope we get to see more of Colin as a drag queen in the future.
And yet, two new characters! Ok, sort of. Colin is the best friend of Ianto and Rhys, as much as you can be best friends with identical twins who are super tight. He’s our Baby Queen. A PhD student who does pole and wants to become a drag queen. FUN!
And then we meet Barbie Summers (a nod to Buffy Summers?), aka Anthony. She won a drag reality show and was fairly famous, but got screwed by her manager. So Anthony is home from London and shows up at The Court just when Colin does. Kismet for Barbie Summers to take on a drag daughter.
Here’s my single complaint- not enough learning to be a drag queen. Colin was far from a makeup pro and Barbie helps, but I wanted to see Colin do it and be proud. Just little things like that. But that being said, it was still a great book.
Barbie/Anthony and Colin (I won’t give away his drag name) just had chemistry right from the start. What I would call fast friends. They just clicked and spent a lot of time becoming friends. And ramping up the sexual tension.
Barbie grapples with coming to terms with everything in his life while also fighting his growing feelings for Colin. Barbie’s friend and mentor does not want him to get involved with Colin. But the heart wants what the heart wants, amirite?
There are lots of laughs, of course. Many around the subject of Colin’s PhD studies. Because how could you not? But it was also very sweet, very sexy and very fun.
This is an excellent addition to the series. I hope we get to see more of Colin as a drag queen in the future.
May 17, 2024
The Court Book 3. I am thoroughly enjoying this series. I was very happy to get the new book Baby Queen. We briefly met both Barbie Summers (Anthony) and Colin in the last book.
The dedication at the start of this book is such an important sentiment. It also gives you a good idea of Barbie's journey through this story.
Anthony starts the story broke, single, and living back at home after winning Drag Stars, a reality TV drag competition. Anthony had been scammed and betrayed by his agent and touring company. He is ashamed, traumatised and desolate. Thankfully he has his mum, an excellent best friend, and the staring role in a Drag Panto. This is how Anthony is folded into the Court family. Colin, PhD student, pole dancer, and baby drag queen is encouraged to contact Bubblegum Galaxy by his pole dance friend Rhys. Barbie Summers and Colins first visits to the Court coincide. Barbie is immediately taken with Colin and offers to mentor him in drag. Colin getting his ruby slippers is such a wonderful scene. Along with Anthony I love seeing Colin (Sugar Pill Summers) bloom into a Drag Queen. Seeing Barbie re-embrace drag and find that joy again is wonderful. These two have a connection and spark from the very start. It was wonderful to see
Anthony healing and taking steps to move on from the trauma. The love, acceptance and support from the Court drag family was in full warm effect. Getting to see Sugar Pill becoming as a performer and Drag Queen was so enjoyable. The sweetness, connection and heat between Colin and Anthony are fabulous and so well written. I loved all the details about pole dance, and drag throughout this story. The characters and world are so detailed and real, one of the many reasons I love reading Charlie's stories.
The dedication at the start of this book is such an important sentiment. It also gives you a good idea of Barbie's journey through this story.
Anthony starts the story broke, single, and living back at home after winning Drag Stars, a reality TV drag competition. Anthony had been scammed and betrayed by his agent and touring company. He is ashamed, traumatised and desolate. Thankfully he has his mum, an excellent best friend, and the staring role in a Drag Panto. This is how Anthony is folded into the Court family. Colin, PhD student, pole dancer, and baby drag queen is encouraged to contact Bubblegum Galaxy by his pole dance friend Rhys. Barbie Summers and Colins first visits to the Court coincide. Barbie is immediately taken with Colin and offers to mentor him in drag. Colin getting his ruby slippers is such a wonderful scene. Along with Anthony I love seeing Colin (Sugar Pill Summers) bloom into a Drag Queen. Seeing Barbie re-embrace drag and find that joy again is wonderful. These two have a connection and spark from the very start. It was wonderful to see
Anthony healing and taking steps to move on from the trauma. The love, acceptance and support from the Court drag family was in full warm effect. Getting to see Sugar Pill becoming as a performer and Drag Queen was so enjoyable. The sweetness, connection and heat between Colin and Anthony are fabulous and so well written. I loved all the details about pole dance, and drag throughout this story. The characters and world are so detailed and real, one of the many reasons I love reading Charlie's stories.
May 24, 2024
Anthony (Barbie) and Colin's (Sugar Pill) story is such a wonderful read! It's got an element of hurt/comfort to it with what led Anthony to moving back in with his mum, but otherwise it's a fairly low angst story with drag queen awesomeness and a sweet and slow burn romance.
These two men come into each other's lives at just the right time. Anthony's arrival at The Court, to meet everyone, ready for their pantomime, coincides with Colin's, after being invited to come and look behind the scenes and ask questions as someone new to the drag scene. Being the two new guys in the room, they connect quickly and very smoothly. The only thing holding them back is that Anthony takes on the role of mentor to Colin, having so much experience on the big stage after winning Drag Race and doing some touring. Feelings outweigh commonsense sometimes though and lead to the thing you need to bring happiness and comfort to your life.
They are so sweet together but also, there is an intense chemistry that they have no problem in exploring. There is also the great group of people at The Court who welcome them both like long lost friends and soon fold them into the family. Anthony's drama is written well, I thought. There is the mental and emotional toll it took on him but also the stressing of what others would think of him. Colin is a big support, as is their community.
Another brilliant story from Charlie Novak and I can't wait to read more from these characters.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
These two men come into each other's lives at just the right time. Anthony's arrival at The Court, to meet everyone, ready for their pantomime, coincides with Colin's, after being invited to come and look behind the scenes and ask questions as someone new to the drag scene. Being the two new guys in the room, they connect quickly and very smoothly. The only thing holding them back is that Anthony takes on the role of mentor to Colin, having so much experience on the big stage after winning Drag Race and doing some touring. Feelings outweigh commonsense sometimes though and lead to the thing you need to bring happiness and comfort to your life.
They are so sweet together but also, there is an intense chemistry that they have no problem in exploring. There is also the great group of people at The Court who welcome them both like long lost friends and soon fold them into the family. Anthony's drama is written well, I thought. There is the mental and emotional toll it took on him but also the stressing of what others would think of him. Colin is a big support, as is their community.
Another brilliant story from Charlie Novak and I can't wait to read more from these characters.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
June 3, 2024
Being broke, single, and homeless after winning the UK's biggest drag show wasn't how Anthony's (Barbie Summers) life was supposed to go. He's meant to be the one with everything, but thanks to an evil tour company, he has nothing but his image and a mountain of debt. Moving back home with his mum and taking the first gig I’m offered in a local drag panto is supposed to help him get back on his feet, but meeting Colin tangles him up more than ever. Colin desperately wants to start doing drag and suddenly Anthony is helping a baby queen find her feet while falling head over heels for the man behind the lashes. Everyone knows mixing power dynamics is a recipe for trouble, but his life is already a mess. Will falling for Colin spell disaster or is he the only thing keeping him upright in my seven-inch heels?
I love these guys with their over-the-top drag personas and the language that they use. Anthony and Colin were drawn together from the start and the mentorship was just a complication but I feel that they were adult enough in their thoughts and actions to make sure that they did not make any mistakes and turn it into a negative experience for either of them. There were a lot of discussions about thoughts and feelings around the way that Anthony was conned out of earnings and the relationship between the two men. I thought Anthony's Mum was brilliant - we all need a mother like her. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
I love these guys with their over-the-top drag personas and the language that they use. Anthony and Colin were drawn together from the start and the mentorship was just a complication but I feel that they were adult enough in their thoughts and actions to make sure that they did not make any mistakes and turn it into a negative experience for either of them. There were a lot of discussions about thoughts and feelings around the way that Anthony was conned out of earnings and the relationship between the two men. I thought Anthony's Mum was brilliant - we all need a mother like her. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
June 13, 2024
This entire series is the first I have read of Charlie Novak, and she has skyrocketed to the top of my favourite authors list!! The whole series is brilliant!!
Barbie Summers and Sugar Pill are my favourite couple so far in this series! All the couples are amazing, but wee Sugar Pill stole my heart, and I was so proud of her when she got on stage for her first performance!!
Anthony (Barbie Summers) needs to move back home after an evil manager and tour company betray and use him for his talent. Colin (Sugar Pill) is a "baby queen". He wants to get started in drag but needs to figure out where to start to get gigs and needs help with his overall look. Anthony and Colin meet at the court and become fast friends; as they are the newbie queens of the court family, so they naturally gravitate to each other.
Barbie is the talented Drag Queen expert who adopts Sugar Pill as her drag daughter. We get to follow along on Sugar Pill's journey of becoming a queen, and we find out why Barbie had to leave her famous life behind to move back home. But of course, they have an excellent friendship that blooms into a loving relationship, which helps build each other up to bigger and better things.
Its a wonderful story, and I really hope we will see more of the found family at the court.
Barbie Summers and Sugar Pill are my favourite couple so far in this series! All the couples are amazing, but wee Sugar Pill stole my heart, and I was so proud of her when she got on stage for her first performance!!
Anthony (Barbie Summers) needs to move back home after an evil manager and tour company betray and use him for his talent. Colin (Sugar Pill) is a "baby queen". He wants to get started in drag but needs to figure out where to start to get gigs and needs help with his overall look. Anthony and Colin meet at the court and become fast friends; as they are the newbie queens of the court family, so they naturally gravitate to each other.
Barbie is the talented Drag Queen expert who adopts Sugar Pill as her drag daughter. We get to follow along on Sugar Pill's journey of becoming a queen, and we find out why Barbie had to leave her famous life behind to move back home. But of course, they have an excellent friendship that blooms into a loving relationship, which helps build each other up to bigger and better things.
Its a wonderful story, and I really hope we will see more of the found family at the court.
May 12, 2024
Baby Queen is the third book in The Court series by Charlie Novak. This series features a group of drag queens and even though Baby Queen is the third in a series, it can be read as a standalone.
In this book we meet Anthony/Barbie and Colin/Sugar. Anthony is a well-known drag queen who recently won a television drag show, only to lose everything soon after when he was taken advantage of by a tour company and manager. Colin is a PhD student who is eager to get into drag and is only too happy when the famous Barbie Summers offers to be his mentor.
Anthony and Colin were so sweet together. There was a feeling of rightness between them very early on and I truly felt like these two were meant to be together. I loved the way they wholeheartedly supported one another every step of the way and how they so quickly became each other’s safe place.
There’s also a found family aspect in this book (and series) that I really love. We meet a lot of characters from other books (some of which I already knew, some that I didn’t), and it’s just so fun to see this universe continue to grow. With this book, Charlie Novak continues to give us wonderful characters and a type of story and setting that I don’t feel like we see a lot of in romance, and I'm enjoying it a lot!
In this book we meet Anthony/Barbie and Colin/Sugar. Anthony is a well-known drag queen who recently won a television drag show, only to lose everything soon after when he was taken advantage of by a tour company and manager. Colin is a PhD student who is eager to get into drag and is only too happy when the famous Barbie Summers offers to be his mentor.
Anthony and Colin were so sweet together. There was a feeling of rightness between them very early on and I truly felt like these two were meant to be together. I loved the way they wholeheartedly supported one another every step of the way and how they so quickly became each other’s safe place.
There’s also a found family aspect in this book (and series) that I really love. We meet a lot of characters from other books (some of which I already knew, some that I didn’t), and it’s just so fun to see this universe continue to grow. With this book, Charlie Novak continues to give us wonderful characters and a type of story and setting that I don’t feel like we see a lot of in romance, and I'm enjoying it a lot!
May 21, 2024
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I’m completely smitten with this story.
A drag superstar who’s been taken advantage of by his agent and tour company, and the kindest, sweetest baby drag queen.
Anthony has been left with debt, no boyfriend, and having to move home to his mom’s. He’s so lost and dejected. It’s heartbreaking and makes you want to destroy some people! He’s such a wonderful man, no diva drama from this one.
But all that has led him to Colin. A shy and sweet PhD student who wants to be a drag queen, and finds himself under the wing of Barbie Summers herself.
They help and care for each other. Colin gives Anthony a safe place to remind himself who he is and what’s important. Anthony gives Colin the strength to embrace himself.
It’s such a special relationship, but it also highlights how amazing the rest of The Court family is.
Loved every sweet, vulnerable, tender, and steamy moment.
PS. I think a moving company of rugby players in shorts would be a brilliant idea!
I’m completely smitten with this story.
A drag superstar who’s been taken advantage of by his agent and tour company, and the kindest, sweetest baby drag queen.
Anthony has been left with debt, no boyfriend, and having to move home to his mom’s. He’s so lost and dejected. It’s heartbreaking and makes you want to destroy some people! He’s such a wonderful man, no diva drama from this one.
But all that has led him to Colin. A shy and sweet PhD student who wants to be a drag queen, and finds himself under the wing of Barbie Summers herself.
They help and care for each other. Colin gives Anthony a safe place to remind himself who he is and what’s important. Anthony gives Colin the strength to embrace himself.
It’s such a special relationship, but it also highlights how amazing the rest of The Court family is.
Loved every sweet, vulnerable, tender, and steamy moment.
PS. I think a moving company of rugby players in shorts would be a brilliant idea!
May 17, 2024
One of the best parts of fiction is getting to experience lives that are drastically different from your own, and I've had a blast seeing "behind the curtain" of drag artists with this series. This might be the (as of now) final book, but Anthony and Colin's journeys revolve around beginnings. As Colin embarks on a new adventure as a baby queen, Anthony is forced to find a new direction in an older path. They bond over the difficulties of finding a niche in an already established and expansive community, which has the amusing layer of being Novak's intricately connected cast of characters across multiple series. Our heroes navigate the potential pitfalls of combining romance and mentorship with maturity and grace, as Novak avoids the easy road of using that as a source of conflict. Instead, she highlights real-life personal and professional issues all independent artists can face, no matter their medium, to craft a low angst but incredibly compelling romance. As usual, the book also features all the humor and warmth I love in stories by this author.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
May 22, 2024
Review - Baby Queen by Charlie Novak
5 🩵
I love love loved Coin and Anthony, their journey was just * chiefs kiss * These two from the off are just the sweetest pair, I was so happy when Barbie took Colin under her wings.
Anthony is so much more than his drag persona and I really liked that Charlie explored a negative side to drag as well as all the positives. Anthony deserved so much better than how he and Barbie had been treated after winning drag stars.
I loved how welcoming the court family were to both Colin and Babie, that little found family really shines in this book for me. Proving once again they will always be there to support their own no matter what, and that extends to their newest Queen and our adorable baby queen. Watching Colin become more confident and find who he was in drag felt really special. I honestly left this book feeling so freaking proud of him (well if i'm honest i was proud of them both).
While drag brings these two beauties together it's not all that they are and I loved that Charlie really showed who Colin and Anthony were out of drag and their insecurities not just their times of triumph.
As always I loved seeing the other queens and loved being back at the court. I can't wait to see what Charlie has planned next.
I received a copy in return for my honest review.
5 🩵
I love love loved Coin and Anthony, their journey was just * chiefs kiss * These two from the off are just the sweetest pair, I was so happy when Barbie took Colin under her wings.
Anthony is so much more than his drag persona and I really liked that Charlie explored a negative side to drag as well as all the positives. Anthony deserved so much better than how he and Barbie had been treated after winning drag stars.
I loved how welcoming the court family were to both Colin and Babie, that little found family really shines in this book for me. Proving once again they will always be there to support their own no matter what, and that extends to their newest Queen and our adorable baby queen. Watching Colin become more confident and find who he was in drag felt really special. I honestly left this book feeling so freaking proud of him (well if i'm honest i was proud of them both).
While drag brings these two beauties together it's not all that they are and I loved that Charlie really showed who Colin and Anthony were out of drag and their insecurities not just their times of triumph.
As always I loved seeing the other queens and loved being back at the court. I can't wait to see what Charlie has planned next.
I received a copy in return for my honest review.
May 31, 2024
Let me start with , I love Charlie Novak and the wonderful stories that she brings us. She is one of my top 3 authors after almost 50yrs of reading. That being said, I think that Baby Queen is my new favorite of all of her books, for a few reasons. Not only is the story of Anthony and Colin finding their love for each other, it's the story of a man devastated with a turn that brought him from Epic High’s to Lower than he ever thought he would be and trying to live life again. This is the story of a young man who is exploring who he truly believes he should really be and trying to live his life to the fullest. It's a story of trust, connection and trying to believe and accept that those around you will be there for you thru thick and thin. It truly contains everything a good story, romance or otherwise should have. I believe that at one time in our lives we have all felt a “connection” to someone we have just met, with no rhyme or reason as to why we feel that way. Anthony and Colin find that in each other and it forms into something so beautiful it's hard to describe. All I can say is it's a MUST READ in my book and I hope others enjoy it as much as I did.
April 28, 2024
Another fantastic addition to the court series, it’s impossible not to fall in love with Colin (just ask Anthony).
Anthony aka Barbie is forced to move back home after an unscrupulous manager and tour company take advantage of him and leave him in debt and unable to pay his rent. He’s kept it hidden from everyone but Colin sees the sadness behind his smiles and a friendship blooms.
Colin is a baby queen just getting started in drag and is delighted when Barbie offers to take him under her wing. They become fast friends which inevitably leads to more when they are both drawn to each other.
Anthony shows him a side of himself that no one else sees and Colin unwittingly helps him find a reason to push on and recover from the embarrassment of being taken advantage of.
Together they grow and heal and become each others worlds whilst also finding the supportive family they both needed with their friends at the court.
A great low angst read, with friends to lovers, some hurt comfort vibes and a whole lot of glitter and found family.
Anthony aka Barbie is forced to move back home after an unscrupulous manager and tour company take advantage of him and leave him in debt and unable to pay his rent. He’s kept it hidden from everyone but Colin sees the sadness behind his smiles and a friendship blooms.
Colin is a baby queen just getting started in drag and is delighted when Barbie offers to take him under her wing. They become fast friends which inevitably leads to more when they are both drawn to each other.
Anthony shows him a side of himself that no one else sees and Colin unwittingly helps him find a reason to push on and recover from the embarrassment of being taken advantage of.
Together they grow and heal and become each others worlds whilst also finding the supportive family they both needed with their friends at the court.
A great low angst read, with friends to lovers, some hurt comfort vibes and a whole lot of glitter and found family.
May 7, 2024
This is another excellent addition to The Court series. And like the other books, it tackles an important subject, this time the way independent performer struggle in the industry and the financial implications.
Anthony aka Barbie Summer should be at an absolute high but is at his lowest. The way he is not dealing with the situation is described brilliantly and also how the mentoring of Baby Queen Colin aka Sugar Pills and how this and the budding relationship between them is helping him finding his heels again. It shows how dreams can shatter but can be rebuild.
Colin's journey and the support and encouragement not just from Anthony but also the other queens is so lovely to read. It shows brilliantly how Drag is so much more than "dressing up", it's what they are.
I love how Charlie Novak weaves her various worlds together. We meet previous characters and small Easter Eggs are also dropped in. You don't have to have read her previous series but it hopefully will entrace you to find out about Orlando, Bitch Fit and Henry.
Anthony aka Barbie Summer should be at an absolute high but is at his lowest. The way he is not dealing with the situation is described brilliantly and also how the mentoring of Baby Queen Colin aka Sugar Pills and how this and the budding relationship between them is helping him finding his heels again. It shows how dreams can shatter but can be rebuild.
Colin's journey and the support and encouragement not just from Anthony but also the other queens is so lovely to read. It shows brilliantly how Drag is so much more than "dressing up", it's what they are.
I love how Charlie Novak weaves her various worlds together. We meet previous characters and small Easter Eggs are also dropped in. You don't have to have read her previous series but it hopefully will entrace you to find out about Orlando, Bitch Fit and Henry.
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