In 2012 I became a Krysten Ritter fan because of her show “Don’t Trust The Bitch In Apartment 23”. Which is no surprise, with a title like that. Its fun when she pops up on different shows or movies I’m watching. Most recently it was “Veronica Mars”; a pandemic binge watch and I just checked out her film “Vamps” (also from 2012) with Alicia Silverstone, Sigourney Weaver and a Marilu Henner cameo.
The must-have essentials for any gay Krysten Ritter fan!
It was a no-brainer, when I saw Krysten was going to be doing a book signing at Barnes & Nobel – Union Square in New York City for her new book “Retreat”, that I needed to get a ticket. Especially when she would pose for a photo and sign two pieces of memorabilia in addition to her book. The day of the event it was raining and an email warned the waiting line would be outside. I got there an hour and a half early, avoiding the worst of the downpour, but still the line was around the building.
Rain, shine or typo!
Because Krysten starred in the super hero show Jessica Jones, the “Marvel Masturbators” (comic fans who might enjoy Krysten for more than just her acting ability) were out in full-force with their dolls, posters and specific magic markers for the signing. There was one woman who lost her shit, ending up in a snotty, tear-streaked mess, and needed to be consoled with a hug from Krysten. No, that wasn’t me. Another woman was getting her arm signed for a tattoo but Krysten messed up and had to bathe the woman in Purell to remove the ink. That also wasn’t me, I’m not into pain, but if Krysten ever creates a signature scent, it’s going to smell like rubbing alcohol with hints of Sharpie.
Hundreds of fans were on hand. As it got later, the staff needed Krysten to be less interactive and more focused on the autographs, to get everyone through the line. One attendee didn’t understand this and demanded a hug. When handlers turned him away, he threw his arms around himself, rocked back and forth, loudly screamed “Bye Krysten, I love you!” and storming off the stage. Again, not me but thanks gurl, after that nothing I said or did would come across as stalkery. I was the one in the middle of the heard (after an hour and a half of waiting) when Krysten’s ink ran out mid-signature so another color had to be used. That was Karma paying me back for rolling my eyes at those who brought their own markers.
After the hugging scandal, social distancing rules were in place!
Without any spoilers, “Retreat” is the story of grifter Liz Dawson and her latest scam to position herself in the world of the wealthy. What’s not to love about a main character who is a con-woman with questionable ethics as well as a biting sense of humor. I like rooting for a villain with redeeming qualities. “Retreat” drew me in and I couldn’t put it down for the next two days. It’s a wild ride with assumed identities, a murder or five and a handful of plot twists I saw coming and others I didn’t. In my gay opinion, “Retreat” is great because it has a complicated plot with a clearly explained finale, leaving me with no questions, and just the satisfaction of a good read.
Who doesn’t love free promo merch? Do these sun glasses scream con-artist or Marvel Masturbator?
