Rehearsed to Death

Book Review: Rehearsed to Death by Frank Anthony Polito

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3 stars)

In Rehearsed to Death, the second installment of the exciting new “Domestic Partners” series by Frank Anthony Polito, readers are introduced to a delightful blend of mystery and cozy charm. Set in suburban Detroit, this queer cozy mystery follows a gay couple who find themselves entangled in a murder investigation while renovating houses for their hit reality show, Domestic Partners. As they venture into the world of community theater, their lives take an unexpected turn as deadly secrets unravel on and off the stage.

The story revolves around Peter, a playwright whose debut play is premiering at Pleasant Woods' community theater. His partner, the handsome JP, takes on the lead role, and with the addition of New York City's renowned director, Xander Sherwood Deva, the excitement is palpable. However, Xander's controlling and egomaniacal nature quickly turns rehearsals into a tense environment. When he is found strangled to death with his own luxurious scarf, Peter and JP become amateur sleuths determined to solve the crime before opening night.

One of the standout features of this book is its unique setting. The author vividly captures the essence of Detroit, providing readers with a refreshing backdrop for the unfolding mystery. The local theater setting adds an extra layer of intrigue and charm, making it an engaging read for theater enthusiasts. Additionally, the character of Fairway Bob brings delightful quirkiness to the story, adding depth and humor to the narrative.

While Rehearsed to Death presents an intriguing premise and captivating setting, there were aspects that hindered my overall enjoyment of the book. Firstly, the writing style did not resonate with me. I found it somewhat lacking in terms of pacing and flow, which made the reading experience feel slow at times. However, this is subjective, and others may find the writing style more appealing.

Despite my reservations about the writing style, I appreciate the author's attempt to venture beyond the traditional cozy mystery formula. By introducing representation within the genre, Polito offers a fresh perspective that is both inclusive and diverse. This book serves as a welcome addition to the mystery genre.

In conclusion, Rehearsed to Death by Frank Anthony Polito is a mixed bag but still worth exploring for fans of cozy mysteries looking for something different. The colorful and eye-catching cover immediately draws attention to this unique cozy series. While the writing style may not work for everyone, the Detroit setting and theatrical backdrop add an intriguing twist to the story. With its fair share of strengths and weaknesses, this book opens up new possibilities for future queer cozy mysteries and offers readers a chance to delve into an unexplored niche within the genre.

ARC Via NetGalley