I'm certain lots of people will have (and I see that they have had!!) a ton of fun with this one: it's hilarious, romantic, and the writing is incredibly beautiful when it digs into its depth. I also really enjoyed the political aspect, and the clever dialogue made everyone very charming and fun to be around.

It’s almost difficult to put into words just how much this book touched me on a personal level. It so beautifully captures the feeling of be a queer dude in your early twenties, stays grounded in reality while also perfectly executing the more fairy tale-esque aspects that one would expect from a plot about the FSOTUS falling in love with a Prince?

Alex’s voice throughout the book was incredibly refreshing, the amount of times that I laughed or smiled or had a knee jerk positive reaction to something that was happening on the page are too numerous for me to even try an ballpark a number. He felt like a person I could know, that I do know, even side characters like June and Nora or Henry’s sister Bea were all realized in a way that brought a smile to my face. Tertiary character like Queen Mary or President Claremont at times felt less three dimensional, but never in a way that I felt that the narrative was suffering because of it.

Initially I was worried at how the novel seemed to be paced. We seemed to be covering a lot of ground in a very short amount of time, months seemed to be elapsing at a pace where I wasn’t sure if it was wise. By around the forty percent mark though I was confident with how the the pacing was being handled, yes the novel does cover a lot of ground and there are quite a few beats, but none of it felt rushed or hurried. All of the big character moments still felt authentic and genuine and not like they were being pushed in because we needed to get this character to this specific emotion. I think the fact that there were moment in the narrative where the book paused, took a breath and delivered some really amazing character moments really helped. There are some seriously incredible monologue moments where characters are given the opportunity to make speeches that simply melted me. There was multiple moments where I was nearly moved to tears by how much McQuiston had made me care for this characters.

The only real issue I have with the book is in the last twenty percent with how and who is revealed to have betrayed a character. It was the only part of the book that didn’t feel true to me. I do think that the subject matter was handled appropriately, and in terms of a political motivation it made sense, but I feel like the reader isn’t as attached to the character making the revelation as they should be for it to work. I know that they were an important person in Alex’s life, and they appear a couple of times before that and you did get a sense of the importance they played, but the explanation almost felt too tied up in a bow. For a romance novel that’s not necessarily even a bad thing, it’s just that specific plot point didn’t make me feel the way it was meant to, and that’s purely a subjective thing. I don’t think that nearly as many readers will have the same issue that I did.

Overall I love this book with my whole heart and soul, I didn’t realize how much queer characters in their twenties was a thing that I needed in my life until I had it. I can’t imagine my life without them, and I honestly can’t adequately say how much I loved the experience of getting to be on this journey with these characters.

If you've been on goodreads you definitely will have seen this book being read/shelved on your timeline. I wanted to get into the hype train too, luckily for me I got an ARC.

The romance is an intercontinental affair, the president's son and the prince of England. You can imagine the ramifications for the Prince of England saying he's gay even in these modern times and I think that's what this book focuses on.

I was expecting more time with Alex and Henry but instead we had to deal with the politics. I usually avoid politics in books so for me it was a bit dull. I had seen several tags saying this was a enemies to lovers book, it really wasn't. They had a tussle and that was it, there was no "hate to love" involved and that was a bit of a letdown for for me.

Still, it was a terrific book so if you don't mind reading about politics then this book is the one for you. I really liked Henry and I wish we had gotten his POV as well

Oh man, this was a book I didn't know I needed. This book was both fluffy joy and a cathartic cry session.

I don't think I've ever been happier to receive an e-arc. In 2019 this book was a reflection of where we should be as a country.

So much love.

At one point while texting a friend about it all I could say was "f*** me up" cause that's what it did.

Adored this book. Full of feelings, tension, edgy and raw.
Alex and Henry, along with June, Nora and
Pez, are teens of today despite their positions and wealth.
Love how progressive this story is.
Way to go.

I LOVED this book. The characters were easy to love and the story captured my attention immediately. The characters were well fleshed-out and developed, which I always appreciate. This story was a great take on the hate-to-love trope. The only thing I believe this book could benefit from is being told in 1st person instead of 3rd person point of view.

Okay, look, I don’t even know how to start this review so I’m just going to apologize in advance for my fangirling, because honestly, it’s really just NOT fair at all that we’re less than three months into the year and I’ve probably already found my favorite book of the year. I mean, HOLY HELL, Y’ALL, THIS IS SO GOOD.

I mean, this book is exactly what I’m referring to when I say that romance thrives on tropes and that we should embrace tropes more often because, seriously—international relations? Reluctant royals? Enemies-to-friends-to-lovers? Fake friendships? Fake dating? IT’S ALL HERE AND IT’S BEAUTIFUL.

When I say I loved this book, I’m worried that you’re interpreting it as, “wow, Destiny enjoyed this book,” when what I mean is, “I had to stop looking through my highlights for quotes to use because I was getting derailed by rereading all of my favorite parts and I’m legitimately tempted to reread this book right now even though I just finished it less than 24 hours ago.”

There are so many freaking adorable characters that I want to cherish forever. I mean, SO MANY. And they’re all so flawlessly and casually diverse and precious and wonderful.
✨ Alex: First Son, biracial (white/Latinx), bisexual, hilarious, vaguely full of himself in the best way
👑 Henry: Prince, gaaaaay, softest bean ever
📰 June: First Daughter, biracial (white/Latinx), #squadmom for life, honestly gave me total queer vibes so can we please get a sequel confirming this??
💻 Nora: Alex and June’s bestie, bisexual, geeky AF, computer hacker and data analyst extraordinaire, endlessly hilarious (“still waters, deep dicking”)
🎤 Bea: Henry’s sister, former cocaine addict, sweet and feisty as hell, also queer AF and I’ll not hear any arguments
💎 Pez: Henry’s best friend, massive philanthropist, fashionista, no regard for societal gender roles (despite these last two things I’m tempted to think Pez is the Token Straight™ in the Super Six)

I could gush forever, honestly. And the humor in this story! I laughed out loud so many times. And the swooning! There’s a fair amount of sex (though the scenes are all tame and mostly vague if that’s something you’re worried about), and even when everyone is fully clothed, the tension is off the charts. They’re so sweet together and they wear their little hearts on their sleeves and I adored everything about the perfect OTP that is Alex and Henry. ♥ Also, their text and email conversations? KILL ME WITH CUTENESS, CASEY MCQUISTON, JUST DO IT.

I think the last thing I want to say is just how optimistic and downright hopeful this book is. Without spoiling anything, there’s a scene towards the end that is just pure queer affirmation and support and love and it had me bawling the happiest tears at the thought. The world is a really ugly place sometimes (especially in US politics lately) and I cherished every moment of this escape and this view into what we’re hopefully moving towards.

🎵 Plenty of heart and plenty of hope

OooooooooCaseyM-C, whose fresh voice comes sweepin' down the plain
And the sparkling banter, sure smells sweet
When the wit slashes down like a blade

(IDK what's gotten into me here, just go with it)

OoooooCaseyM-C, ev'ry word made me wish for a world
Without an Orange One whose
Makin' a fool of himself while
We all know we can do better for this land
This land we belong to is grand!

And whether we say White House Trio or Super Six!
Or Alex and Henry-AY!
We're only sayin'
You're doin' fine, OoooooCaseyM-C!
OooooooCaseyM-C, OK!

(going a lil off script with this last bit)

BLUE Texas in 2020! WOO! 🎵




Anyhoo, I think it's safe to say if a book makes you break into show tunes, it's prolly pretty great. This story was exactly what I needed-light, fluffy and warmed me up from the inside out with its hopefulness and optimism. Part enemies to lovers story and part coming of age story, it's smart and engaging and delivers some much needed escapism with the added bonus of being deliciously swoony. Alex and Henry fall hard but not fast which I appreciated.

He kisses Henry until it feels like he can't breathe, until it feels like he's going to forget both of their names and titles, until they're only two people tangled up in a dark room making a brilliant, epic, unstoppable mistake.

The banter is delightful and Henry's razor sharp wit made me snortle time and time again. The Star Wars debates (#TeamAlex here; it's sad how wrong Henry is in his wrongness), the Harry Potter references and the correspondence whether it be text or email all brought a smile to my face and the excerpts that ended their emails? Three words: squishy marshmallow goo. Told exclusively from Alex's POV and, admittedly, there were times I wished for Henry's but the dialogue and correspondence went a long way, and in the end this is really Alex's journey of self discovery so it's fitting that he tell it.

They bring out the best in each other even when they're sniping at the other and when all that pent up frustration and desire morphs into something more it was electric.

Should I tell you that when we're apart, your body comes back to me in dreams? That when I sleep, I see you, the dip of your waist, the freckle above your hip, and when I wake up in the morning, it feels like I've just been with you, the phantom touch of your hand on the back of my neck fresh and not imagined? That I can feel your skin against mine, and it makes every bone in my body ache? That, for a few moments, I can hold my breath and be back there with you, in a dream, in a thousand rooms, nowhere at all?

I never expected to fall in love with all these characters like I did, not just Alex and Henry but June, Pez, Oscar, Ellen, Cash, Zahra, Shaan and most notably Nora. Nora is my hero. All of them are well crafted. All of them love each other and mostly importantly they have fun together. They all read age appropriate. If there were to be more stories in this universe, I would not be mad about that. At all.

The effort that McQuiston put into developing not only these characters but the romance was striking and the care she took in folding in geopolitical and domestic issues with aplomb combined with her seamless integration of diversity, got my attention. Sure, you have to suspend a little disbelief but the heart of what's being addressed is a troubling reality that she didn't shy away from addressing; she just put a more hopeful spin on it.

A spin, that I might add, I would get decked out in sparkly shoes, a tutu, ready for some epic heel clicking and am fully prepared to offer to do something unpleasant. Not illegal or amoral, mind, but unpleasant like voluntarily ingesting jicama 🤢🤢🤢 to make this alt-reality a reality. Just point me in the right direction. I'm ready for duty!

Last but certainly not least, Texas! YYYYYYAAAASSSSSSSS!!!!! BBQ ribs and elotes and lazy summer days and a sky so blue it'll take your breath away FTW! It always ramps up the appeal of a book when I can connect on such a visceral level like I did here. Coupled with the fact that I share the deep and abiding hope that Texas will be a battleground state in 2020 deepened my connection to it.

My quibbles are minor, namely that I think it could've been tighter. Some parts of the narrative I thought were long-winded. Time could've been demarcated better, though that could get cleaned up before it's officially released. If so, someone let me know and I'll bump my rating up to 4.75 stars.

So, if you're interested in a feel good and swoony escapism from the superbadawful 24/7 news, then give Red, White & Royal Blue a whirl.

An ARC was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I loved it! I'm feeling way too much at the moment.

I laughed so much, I cried, and I loved how this book gave me a profound sense of hope.

The enemies to lovers relationship is so well done. From sworn enemies to you're all I can think about.

The ending was beautiful and perfect in every way. I had goosebumps and tears in my eyes during those last chapters. My heart is so entirely full, it's nearly overflowing. This book has some serious heart to it. I recommend with my entire body and soul.

Full review will be posted to https://www.kinziethings.com on April 14, 2019.

-=-=-=-

I read “Red, White & Royal Blue” in one day and I’m pleased to admit that I cried through the last quarter of it. This book is exactly the balm that my poor, battered, immigrant-Canadian heart needed.

It’s probably not lost on anyone that the past few years have been a challenging time to survive if you’re open-minded, left-leaning and a believer in love and human kindness. Clearly, the author is on Team-Love-Wins and hopes for a better world.

If you want to have a cry over an honest-to-goodness digital age fairy tale complete with handsome Prince Charming, pop culture references and political intrigue, then this is the book for you.

Whip-smart Alex Claremont-Diaz is a Mexican Texan blazing a trail as American’s First Son. Just like his mom, first woman POTUS, Alex’s career trajectory is politics and he’s got it all planned out. He’s sarcastic and hilarious, flawed and… he has a nemesis. Prince Henry – yes, the Queen of England kind of Prince – and he’s been rude to Alex since the first moment they met. Of course, Alex keeps an eye on HRH because he’s the primary contender for the title of global media darling.

A Royal Wedding takes Alex to England and he has a run-in with Prince Henry. A photo of the two young men having an altercation ends up in the tabloids and some serious steps are undertaken to put a positive spin on things.

Alex is forced into a contracted, fake, bromance with the prince. They are to be seen in public being friendly at all the right places in order the repair the publicity nightmare they have unwittingly created.

Soon, Alex realizes that there’ more to Prince Henry than he thought. Through a series of uncomfortable events, texts and emails, their fake bromance slowly blossoms into something more. I don’t care if you think you might have read something similar before because you haven’t.

McQuiston’s story unfolds cleverly through witty prise, historical quotes, interview transcripts, speeches, group texts, and emails. Have I mentioned that Alex’s sister June, their friend Nora… when combined with Prince Henry and his business mogul besties, Pez (like the candy) is like an upgraded Breakfast Club for 2019.

There are ups and downs in the story of these two fellahs. Alex and Henry have a lot of roadblocks between them. More than once, my heart ached for Henry and his perfectly planned out life… that seemed nothing like what he actually wanted. But, McQuiston handles the story with gentle, poetic prose that helps to soothe the hurt that can arrive with great love.

This book filled me with joy. Can the glorious future in this novel become a reality, please? I have hope again. Thanks Casey McQuiston. I ♥ you and your book.

First off, I would like to thank the publisher and author for providing me this ARC to review. Please note that the version I read was an advanced copy, and certain events/language may be changed in the published edition. While the copy was provided for free, all opinions are honest and my own.

FSOTUS Alex (First Son of the United States) and Prince Henry have always had strong feelings for each other. They have been arch-enemies since the first time they met, after all. But when their latest interaction goes horribly wrong, at a royal wedding no less, the two are forced to spend time together in order to convince the public they’re actually the best of friends. But will their fake friendship become real? Or maybe even something more?

I requested this ARC because it seemed like a super cute gay romance and we honestly need more of that in YA. What I got was exactly that, and so, so, much more. This book honestly has it all, but a cute yet healthy relationship to issues that are relevant to today’s society, all of it packaged in wonderful writing.

I honestly don’t even know if I can discuss my feelings for Alex and Henry, and all the other characters of this book, without devolving into incoherent screeching. From the very first chapter these characters were fantastic, and by the end, I loved them all deeply. The bond you make with these characters in this single novel is deeper than some bonds you make with characters you read 5+ books on, and there are some very good reasons for that. First off, all the characters feel utterly and extremely real, from Alex and Henry to the side characters, Nora, June, Pez, Bea, etc. They all have unique passions and dreams that play a large role in the story, as well as real and sometimes debilitating flaws. It allows McQuiston to fully real human experience on the page while making us care very deeply for the events and emotions of the characters. Then on top of all that technical stuff, all the characters were such pure wholesome people? Like yes, the book has quite a bit of smut but this book is far from a “sexy” book, the relationships and characters are all just so cute and lovely, and I am endlessly sad that this book is over and I’m not sure if I’ll get more of them. If you like supportive friendships and pure relationships, fully fleshed characters and relatable emotions, this book is already for you.

Then there’s also how McQuiston writes these characters, the style she uses to describe these people and events. I was honestly blown away. I can honestly say that the writing is this style is simply beautiful, that it goes above and beyond just telling you and showing you a story. While it isn’t lyrically beautiful, in the fairy tale style of authors like Laini Taylor and Naomi Novik, it is emotionally beautiful, the type of writing that seems to directly transfer emotion on to the page and allows the reader to experience the story alongside the characters. There are some moments where the emotions of the characters are written so beautifully that I wanted to stop and reread certain paragraphs over and over again. This book is the definition of an emotional rollercoaster, and Mcquiston’s writing makes sure you feel ever magical and magnificent part of it.

On top of all that, you’re getting more than just a wonderfully written gay romance story. You’re also getting commentary on American society, as well as a bit on British. This story does still partially follow the re-election campaign of the first female president, of characters that are struggling with their sexuality and identity while in the public sphere, of a mixed First Son and First Daughter of the United States. It manages to comment on all of this throughout the story, especially the American political sphere of today. Since this book is parallel to the recent election, playing out similar scenarios in the 2020 election that takes place in the book, there are moments that just plain hurt, that connect so strongly to emotions you, as a reader, have felt in terms of Trump and other terrible, horrendous things that have happened recently. It shows the fragility of the love and fame of a nation, as well as the love of a family, how that can hinge on you continuing to follow the path that they have set aside for you. It’s a book that will sucker punch you in the gut. But it’s also the book that shines a light on the beauty of the world, on the strength and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community and just how much love there is out in the world for each other. In this sense, the novel also perfectly represents our society, the combination of pain and fresh hurt that exists on a global, national, and local level to the hope that penetrates through it all.

If it’s not clear by now, I really, truly, deeply love this book. It’s a story that’ll stick with me for a long time to come, characters that will never truly leave my mind and my heart. It’s a book that is important now and will stay important for years to come. It’s a book I really think you all should preorder, read, listen to, any and all of it. I know it’s a book I’ll be ecstatic to have on my shelves.

The second I read the synopsis for this book I knew it'd be a new favorite, little did I know it would still manage to exceed my expectations. This book was so sweet and funny and a story I really didn't know I needed. I was thoroughly entertained from page 1 and I genuinely didn't want to put it down.

Let's start with the main characters, Alex and Henry (the prince, obviously). They were such a joy to read and their dialogue and chemistry were so well done. The author had a way of making everything they said so natural. This book is on the longer side for a contemporary romance, over 400 pages, which I was so grateful for because it not only allowed me to be with these characters for as much time as possible, but it also made their relationship grow at a very believable pace and let everything happen organically, a very good choice on the author's part. They both had such interesting stories and personalities which this book being longer helped us explore. I can't remember the writing blowing my mind but it was very easy to read and I think it definitely worked with the story. The plot was very well placed and as I said earlier it allowed everything to flow more naturally. The emails and texts made me laugh and swoon and honestly, I think the author did such a good job with that aspect of the story.

Being honest I can't remember lots of the side characters vividly but I do remember that they were genuinely important to the story and had their own backstories we got to explore, which I thought was nice to see. This book really is the perfect romance book, it's witty, sweet, and refreshing. There were so many deeper themes throughout this book and the added political element made it all the more interesting. This is NOT a book to miss out on and one of my new favorite LGBTQ+ romances. It honestly warmed my heart so many times, broke it, then pieced it back together. I really hope more people pick this up when it comes out, it was everything I hoped for and more.

*These quotes are from an ARC and are subject to change before the publication date*

Alex throws his head back and laughs handsomely, loud and false.
“Go fuck yourself.”
“Hardly enough time,” Henry says.
-
I’m just going to hit the ground running here by saying that this is now one of my favorite books of all time. I honestly don’t even know how I’m supposed to review this?? Other than to just do my usual fangirl flail and hope I properly can get my feelings across to all of you about this wonderful, beautiful book.
-
“Prince Henry is a biscuit,” Nora says, “let him sop you up.”
“I’m leaving.”
-
The first thing you guys need to know to get into the proper mind frame for this book is that it’s based in an America that, instead of having Trump as our 45th president, we have a woman named Ellen Claremont who has two children, Alex and June, who are biracial. What that means is basically this is a dream America that I hope to someday actually live in. ANYWAY. Alex is our local FSOTUS prince charming and is “mortal enemies” with another prince charming across the pond in England, named Henry. SHLKGSEIOGHWOPEBEOPGHSEIOGHEBSIGFSIEG. I don’t know how many of you have seen Umbrella Academy but personally I pictured Alex as the guy who played Diego (David Castañeda). They even have bits of similar personality traits, too. HENRY. Henry. Henry is THE EPITOME of a SMOL cinnamon roll who is too. Good. For. This. Earth. You can even quote me on that. Their relationship together is….so damn good you guys. They start out as “enemies,” become tentative friends, to best friends, to….so so so much.
-
The song crossfades into another buh-duh dum-dum-dum, dum-duh-dum duh-duh-dum--
“Shut up,” Alex yells, cutting off whatever else Henry was saying, “shut your dumb face this is my shit!” He throws his hands up in the air as Henry stares at him blankly, and around them, people start cheering too, hundreds of shoulders shimmying to the shouty, Lil Jon-flavored nostalgia of “Get Low.”
-
^^The quote above is from one of my favorite scenes of the book (well basically they are all favorites but…you get it) and leads me to the cast of supporting characters. June, Nora, Pez, LITERALLY EVERYONE is soo good. I love June and Alex’s relationship, and their friendship with Nora, and Henry and Pez ugh. Like I have never been a partier, and especially not now after having a baby but let me tell you, I would go out to the bar for some karaoke and dirty dancing with these idiots ANY TIME. Good lord they know how to have a good time. I just want them all in my real life.
-
He tilts the phone over towards the driver’s seat. “Say good morning to your strumpet, Henry.”
“Good morning, strumpet,” Henry says, glancing away from the road to wink at the camera.
-
It’s really hard for me to believe that this is McQuiston’s first book. Her writing was ADDICTING. Her story, dialogue, characters—all of it. I have already put her on an auto-read/buy list because of this book. I don’t even know how to express how happy this book made me. On the first day that I read a huge chunk I literally walked around all day with a huge-ass stupid smile on my face that wouldn’t leave for anything. I finished the book and felt so light. My heart was ten times bigger than it was when I started. I told one of my blog-mates, Cassie, who has also read it, that it’s one of those books where after you’ve read it you just know that your life had been missing out on something and you didn’t even know it until right at that second when you finish. It just has everything. It has great LGBTQIA rep, it has the FIRST FEMALE PRESIDENT, it has politics (both American and English), it has people struggling with their identities in a hundred of different ways that the average person can relate to, it has sexy e-mails, it has FAMILY, and it has one of the greatest, sweetest love story I’ve ever read. What more could you ever ask for? Please please PLEASE, I’m down on my knees, begging you to read this book once it comes out. You won’t regret it.
-
June plucks away at “Annie’s Song,” you fill up my senses like a night in a forest, and the breeze keeps moving to meet the highest branches of the trees, and the water keeps rising to meet the bulkheads, and Henry leans down to meet Alex’s mouth, and Alex is. Well, Alex is so in love he could die.
-
HUGE thank you to St. Martin’s Griffin and NetGalley for allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review! ♥

Smart and sexy romantic comedy perfect for readers who want swoon with substance. McQuiston's debut could be ripped straight from the headlines, but ultimately ends on a high note. Political buffs will enjoy the historical facts sprinkled liberally throughout including the presidential stories and the White House descriptions. Will appeal to older teens and New Adults.

”It’s unpredictable and it’s intoxicating and it’s fun, because Alex has never met a challenge he didn’t love, and he—well, Henry is a challenge, head to toe, beginning to end.”

*swooning*

I love love loved this. It was steam-lite which usually isn’t my thing, but the MCs’ connection was so palpable that it really didn’t take anything away to not get all the nitty gritty. This author has has perfected the slam-me-against-the-wall-I-have-to-have-you-now trope and I was LIVING for it!

Another huge plus for me is good secondary characters and this story had that in spades. All hilarious and very well developed.

Also, banter for days! I’m a sucker for sarcasm and Alex was a perfect cocky sarcastic angel.

And Henry, sweet, sweet Henry. He was such a beacon of light and love. I literally melted right along with him every time Alex called him baby.

These two fought long and hard for their happy ending, and I couldn’t have rooted for them harder. I never really wanted their story to end and I’d love to see more from them down the line.

”You and me and history, remember? We’re just gonna fucking fight. Because you’re it, okay? I’m never gonna love anybody in the world like I love you.”

*ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

I just really loved this book. I was expecting a lighthearted romance, and it was that, but it was also so much more. I devoured it in two sittings, and it took a LOT of self-control not to stay up all night to read it in one (I still stayed up until 1 a.m., though).

First of all, I loved the characters. They were so real and developed. They weren't perfect, they weren't caricatures, they were just legit, flawed, relatable, and delightful. They made decisions, they made mistakes, they showed up for each other, they were good friends and caring people, and it was impossible not to root for them.

Second of all, the chemistry between Henry and Alex is so well done. I loved how McQuiston gave them sexual physicality but also real, emotional connection. It made sense. It was deep and developed. You understood why the two of them were drawn to each other, not just physically but in terms of their character, who they are, how they match up, what they want out of their lives. Again, you can't help but root for them, both individually and together.

Lastly, I appreciated the diversity, the politics, the feminism, the messaging of the whole thing. We went into a parallel universe that frankly I wish we could actually be living in. It was almost escapist. McQuiston gets into race, gender, sexuality, all of it, without making it a main focus but without shying away from it either. She really dives into politics and policy and why we do what we do, and how we help and support others. Which is a lot from what is, ultimately, a romantic comedy. But she does it expertly, and it gave the whole book an extra dimension.

In short, this book was incredibly enjoyable and overall very satisfying, and I can't wait to read more from McQuiston.

This book is amazing!

I wasn’t sure if I wanted to read this; premise sounded great, but I wasn’t sure if I would be into a queer romance. Spoiler, I totally was!!!!

Casey does such a great job getting you to feel all these great emotions about falling in love and you don’t really think about it as specifically between two guys, we’ll except for when Alex is thinking it.

This is equal parts ridiculous and steamy and touching. I loved the hijinks they all got into, I loved that everyone seemed to love everyone, I loved that hate turned into love and then the realisation that it wasn’t hate, but actually a huge crush the whole time!

I am so overwhelmed with love for this book, I laughed, I cried, I grinned to myself; this book was amazing. This is currently my favourite book of 2019 and I’m going out in a limb and saying it might even reign supreme as my favourite book of 2019 at the end of the year. I cannot wait for Casey McQuiston to publish her next novel!

I read the advance copy eBook of this in one sitting on a plane to Japan and then, instead of reading any of the other dozens of books I'd downloaded for the journey, reread it intermittently on trains. This book is like a new dessert you've just discovered and can't help but go back for seconds and thirds of. First of all, it's definitely NOT a YA book. Between the filthy language and the very, very hot sex scenes, it is definitely an Adult book. But what an adult book! The characters jump off the page and take up residence in the imagination, sparkling with wit and aching with unspoken longing. Henry and Alex lodged themselves in my heart promptly, and Nora and June (amazing how an M/M romance can have multidimensional, well-written female characters!) are different shades of Goals.

My poor bisexual heart exploded in joy and satisfaction watching Alex wrestle with his sexual identity and land on bi. His whole internal monologue as he reflects on his life and the people he's been attracted to spoke directly to my soul. Add in a soft but badass trans Secret Service agent and a host of folks of color and this book is representation heaven.

Moreover, it's romance heaven. Casey McQuiston hit me with her best tropes, and I delighted in watching enemies become fake friends become real friends become lovers-but-we-won't-catch-feelings then realize (spoilers, but not really) oh shit we caught feelings. Littered with alternatively poetic and hilarious episotolary elements, biting humor, healthy emotional development, and sweetly heartfelt moments, and set against a softer alternative political universe, this is the perfectly crafted cross-continential romance novel we all need to heal our souls. Or at least, I needed it to heal mine. 500/10; I can't wait to force everyone I know to read this once it's out.

Red, White, & Royal Blue is a unique spin on so many of my favorite book tropes. You have the enemies turned friends who find love with each other, you have the misunderstandings that lead to international incidents, you have loving family relationships that include affection and teasing. It's literally all of favorites in one story. Alex, son of the America's president, and Prince Henry are not fans of each other, but due to an international incident involving a wedding cake and several tabloid photographers they have to forge a fake friendship. Between mending the United States/United Kingdom divide and learning more about each other, the friendship might not be for the cameras any more.

I came for the enemies-to-lovers romance and stayed for the election politics. It was easy to root for Alex and Henry's relationship from the very beginning, through their struggles, to the satisfying conclusion. But I didn't know the book would include Alex's mom's reelection campaign as a subplot and I didn't expect it to make me cry. It definitely brought back a lot of the emotions of November 2016 and left me wishing I lived in Alex's America.
The secondary characters were full of personality (especially Alex's family--I love fun family dynamics). I would love to see a companion novel about Nora, Bea, Pez, and/or June in the future. However, one thing that threw me off about this book was the 3rd person present POV, which I know might be a deal breaker for some people. It jolted me out of the story a few times, but for the most part, I didn't notice it. Still, I wish it was either in 1st person present or 3rd person past.
Overall, Red, White & Royal Blue was everything I hoped for and more. Great for fans of The West Wing + romance novels.