I read the Goldie Vance novel, The Hotel Whodunit, before the graphic novel Goldie Vance volume 1 (though based on the comics) because the novel was due before the graphic novel at the library. However, I do not think I would have liked or disliked any differently if I had read in reverse. Both stories are a combination of Nancy Drew, Harriet the Spy and (from what I understand), Veronica Mars. I also got a bit of Archie Comics, along with a dash of the Scooby Gang as well. And it is all tied together in a modern twist with our Goldie as a biracial, queer gal who has divorced parents.
We have our heroine, Marigold “Goldie” Vance, valet to the (somewhat) rich and famous, and wannabe house detective. She and her dad (manger of the hotel they live in) have a good relationship, though she does try “Mr. Vance” and his patience at work (so she takes a guest’s car for a spin or a drag race occasionally). She and her mom also have a good relationship. Goldie watches her mom be a live mermaid at a local club, talks poetry to the bartender/owner, and pines after Dianne, the coolest girl in town (and in the graphic novel looks like Carolyn Jones in Jailhouse Rock, only less haunted).
The novel follows the mystery of a movie being made, a stolen bejeweled swim cap, plus the family and friendship dynamic of Goldie. The graphic novel is the first four or five of the individual stories grouped. We follow Goldie as she “helps” the house detective Walt, find a stolen necklace and a kidnapped guest. There are spies, Russians and helicopters following people and more. The artwork is typical graphic novel/comic style, boldly colored and decent detailed.
The alternative world of the 1950’s and 1960’s (no racism, openly queer people) comes into play by the language and style of dress. The Russians and the car chases make this as if James Bond was a 16-year-old girl. And you also get that with Goldie’s arch nemesis, Sugar Maple, daughter of Mr. Maple, Goldie and her dad’s boss.
Contributors are Lilliam Rivera, Elle Power, Hope Larson, and Brittney Williams.