Book Review: The Bulgarian Bartender

Reviewed by Melissa Suggitt

A story packed with heart, hilarity, and a healthy dose of chaos

Two small-town women, one missing friend, and a dangerous Bulgarian underworld—how far would you go for friendship? The Bulgarian Bartender by Daryl Kulak is a wild journey of danger, friendship, loyalty, and the extraordinary lengths three women will go for one another.

The plot centers on Tiff, Angie, and Kaylee, three lifelong friends from the small town of Mount Miffsberg, Ohio. When Kaylee goes missing in Bulgaria under mysterious circumstances, Tiff—a confident yet struggling stripper—and Angie—a tough, resourceful welder and dojo owner—decide they’re the only ones who can bring her home. 

What begins as a desperate rescue mission quickly escalates into a whirlwind adventure as they find themselves entangled with a dangerous underground group known as the Thracian Brotherhood. From navigating dark alleys and perilous hideouts to deciphering hidden motives, the two women face a world far removed from their quiet Midwestern roots.

Along the way, they discover help in the most unlikely of places. Characters like the enigmatic and resourceful Dueza add depth and surprises to the journey, proving that allies can appear when you least expect them. Each step forward reveals new challenges and twists, making the women confront not only the dangers around them but also their own insecurities and hidden strengths.

Sure, you’ll need to suspend your disbelief a little. The idea of these three women—one a stripper, one working in a waste facility, and one a mechanic slash karate instructor—taking on an international rescue mission might sound like a stretch. But that’s part of the book’s charm. It’s a buddy comedy meets action-adventure ride where you’ll find a story that’s as touching as it is tense and fun.

What makes this book shine is its relationship between its leading women. Author Daryl Kulak blends sharp, witty banter with moments of heartfelt affection, creating a dynamic that feels raw and unapologetically real. Tiff’s crass humor, Angie’s no-nonsense practicality, and Kaylee’s magnetic charisma each shine through, keeping the story lively and engaging—even amidst all the ass-kicking.   

It’s always refreshing to see a portrayal of women who empower and celebrate each other rather than competing with one another. The lengths Tiff and Angie go to for Kaylee—traveling to Bulgaria, taking on a shadowy organization, and confronting their own fears—had me tearing up more than once. It’s a beautiful reminder of the strength and depth of female friendships, the kind many of us wish we had in our own lives. 

Tiff, in particular, stands out as a memorable character. Tough, messy, and unapologetic on the outside, she might not seem like the kind of person to take on a mission like this, but her quick wit and intelligence make her an endearing and compelling protagonist. She’s a survivor—of her circumstances and her own self-doubt—and that makes her journey all the more satisfying.

The story’s Bulgarian setting, complete with its cultural nuances, danger-filled streets, and breathtaking locales, adds richness and flavor. Thrilling encounters with the Thracian Brotherhood, unexpected moments of humor, and the palpable bond between the women keep you hooked even as the story veers into the outrageous. It’s escapism at its best, blending action, tension, comedy, and heart.

Clearly set up as the start of a multi-book series, The Bulgarian Bartender leaves you eager to see what’s next for these three unlikely heroines. The dynamic between Tiff, Angie, and Kaylee is so compelling, you’ll want to follow them into their next adventure badly—wherever in the world it might take them. I, for one, can’t wait to see what chaos and camaraderie lie ahead.

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