Book Review: Big Name Fan by Ruthie Knox & Annie Mare
A sapphic cozy mystery bursting with chemistry, fandom intrigue, and second-chance romance.
I was so excited to dive into Big Name Fan, the first book in a brand-new sapphic cozy mystery series, and it did not disappoint! The premise is an absolute dream for lovers of pop culture, fanfiction, and second-chance romance.
Former TV co-stars Bexley Simon and Sam Farmer are reunited years after their hit detective show Craven’s Daughter ended. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, but the network never let their characters (or them) explore anything beyond subtext. Now, brought together for a rewatch podcast, they not only rekindle their complicated relationship but also stumble into a real-life mystery: uncovering the identity of an anonymous fanfiction writer from within the show’s inner circle and reexamining the mysterious death of a beloved crew member.
Knox and Mare’s writing shines with witty banter, layered emotions, and a deeply immersive narrative. The way they weave in discussions about representation in Hollywood, the impact of fandom, and the fight for creative and personal authenticity adds so much depth to the story. I loved how the novel explores the power of storytelling—both on-screen and within fandom spaces—and the way it can shape real lives.
The chemistry between Bex and Sam is electric, both in their unresolved past and their slow-burning present. Their dynamic is a perfect blend of tension, longing, and humor, making their journey toward each other so satisfying. The mystery elements keep the plot engaging, with twists and turns that had me eagerly flipping pages.
At times, there’s a lot happening—romance, Hollywood drama, a murder mystery, and fanfiction sleuthing—but each thread is so compelling that I didn’t mind. If anything, it made the story feel rich and full of surprises. While I would have loved even more time to explore some aspects in depth, the mix of mystery, romance, and behind-the-scenes TV nostalgia made for such a fun and unique reading experience.
If you love queer Hollywood romances, cozy mysteries with a fandom twist, and second-chance stories packed with chemistry and heart, Big Name Fan is absolutely for you! This is a fantastic start to a series I can’t wait to continue.
Book Stats:
Rating: 5/5
Series: A TV Detectives Novel
Tropes: Hollywood, Close Proximity, second chance,
