Title: Red, White, & Royal Blue
Author: Casey McQuiston
Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin
Publication Date: May 14, 2019
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Summary
After his mom became the president, Alex Claremont-Diaz basically became American royalty. And thus, his rivalry with Henry, the Prince of Wales makes sense, right? They’re essentially opposites. So, after a media catastrophe, the two are forced to spend time together.
However, their staged friendship quickly translates into a real one. Then, it transforms into something Alex wasn’t expecting at all. As the two engage in a secret romance, the stakes are risen. If anyone finds out, the results could be catastrophic for Alex’s mom and for Henry. Their relationship could destroy the relationship between their two nations. But, it could also make history. Can they find the courage to be their true selves?
Review: Red, White, & Royal Blue
Okay, I’ve talked about this book a lot, but I haven’t actually written a review for it! So, here we are! I actually wrote playlists for both Alex and Henry, and now, I’m going to attempt to put into words why I loved this book so much. Honestly, I picked it up because people were gushing about it on Instagram, and for good reason. There is so much to love about it!
First up, it is hilarious. There are multiple times where I found myself smiling throughout this book because Alex and his sister and his friends are just hilarious at times. And it’s been a while since I read a funny book! This might be one that I return to when I need a pick me up, because it’s just that.
In addition, it’s also adorable. And emotionally driven. Alex and Henry are both struggling with their own conflicts and anxieties, and it feels so realistic. Henry is unsure how to come out to his family and what it will do to the expectations placed on him. Alex is trying to figure out how to make his mark on the world and whether or not his chosen path is the way to do it. They use each other to work through these, and McQuiston does a great job bringing these to life on the page.
Finally, the politics! Usually, I’m not a fan of reading about politics in books, but this book provides some of an insight of the American political world (with a much better outcome). The conflicts presented with Alex’s mom as President and her struggles campaigning parallel what really happens, making the entire storyline believable.
Basically, this book is the complete package. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll swoon. No, it’s not a YA book (oops), but one you still need to read nonetheless.
5/5 stars