Goldie Vance: The Hocus-Pocus Hoax (Goldie Vance Novel #2)

Gr 3-7--Goldie Vance, hotel valet, waitress, and part-time detective, is determined to find out who is sabotaging the magic acts at her hotel. The Crossed Palms Resort has been selected to host the League of Magical Arts Convention. Magicians, their assistants, and all sorts of people who love magic are in town to amaze and delight or, to be amazed by, the world's premier illusionists. Not to mention, the greatest magician of all time, Dr. Von Thurston, is slated as the concluding act of the convention. Too bad he also brought his pain-in-the-neck son, Derek, who fancies himself a part-time detective as well. When critical pieces of the magicians' acts go missing, it's up to Goldie, with the unwelcome help of Derek, to figure out who is plotting to destroy the reputation of magicians and magic everywhere. Fans of the "Goldie Vance" graphic novels will enjoy the latest prose novel chronicling her adventures. A confident young Black gay sleuth, Goldie is a role model for readers who value independent thinking, solving mysteries, and leaping into fast-paced adventures. VERDICT Perfect for readers looking for a new female hero of modern crime-solving who isn't afraid to be her authentic self.--Carol Connor, Cincinnati Pub. Schls.