For this installment of our weekly book reviews from Booklist, the American Library Association’s nationally distributed book and media review publication, we have Joelle Egan’s review of “The Tuxedo Society” by Paul Rudnick, first published March 1, 2026, in Booklist.
Enjoy.
“The Tuxedo Society”
By Paul Rudnick. May 2026. 288p. Atria, $28 (9781668212615)
Rudnick’s (“What Is Wrong with You?,” 2025) background as a playwright and screenwriter is evident in this delightfully irreverent romp executed with cinematic flair. Andrew Birnbaum is an aimless, underemployed actor with high ambitions but low motivation. He is invited to a dinner party hosted by The Tuxedo Society, an exclusive group comprised solely of LGBTQ+ members. During the party, he witnesses an efficient takedown in the restroom and discovers that the social club is a cover for a network of well-trained secret operatives. The elite team recruits Andrew to join their ranks as they are tasked with recovering lost jewels and intercepting an escalating series of powerful enemies. A series of madcap adventures sees the “Tuxes” traveling the world under various ruses and extravagant disguises. Rudnick’s spoof on espionage thrillers is filled with allusions to the classics, poking fun at genre tropes while gleefully employing them. With his wry, snarky commentary and rambling tangents, Andrew is a loveable goof whose hilarious exploits and slapstick scenes are endearing and wildly entertaining. This would be a perfect fit for fans of Chuck Tingle, the Knives Out series, and old-school spy movies and books.— Joelle Egan
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