So I just Googled this book to see if Netflix or Hulu or someone had optioned this book for TV and I didn't see anything, but I am sure it will be because it is exactly like the kind of show people will gobble up.

To be fair, I probably won't watch the show because the book is always better, and this book was fabulous, so there is no living up to it in another medium.

Desperate for book 2.

American Royals was a juicy, guilty pleasure of a book, and just what I needed to read this summer. I was drawn in to each character's narrative, even if their circumstances were a bit predictable. The worst part of the book is knowing it is the first of a series, and that I have to wait to find out what happens to Beatrice, Samantha, Nina, Jeff, Daphne, and Connor! Such a fun exploration of what it would be like if America had royal family.

I loved this book! The concept is so original, yet the characters felt familiar. I will be recommending this to all my patrons!

American Royals takes place in a world where George Washington became a King instead of a President, and his descendants still rule America today. I think it was an interesting take on a possible outcome. The story is told from four of the female main character's perspectives. There's a lot of drama, and romance.
If you like drama, this is the book for you. If you like alternate history, this is the book for you. If you like reading about royal families, this is the book for you.
I have so many feelings about this book. In the beginning, it was difficult to keep some of the characters straight, but once I drew a family tree, that helped me. The romance is pretty great. It's not over the top for a YA book which is good. The drama is really great. There is so many intricacies between the characters and their backstories. I thought the titles of some of the nobility were really humorous like "The Duchess of Savannah" and "The Duke of Boston".
I really wish the next book was out already, because I would be reading it right now.

Thank you to Netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!

So I've noticed a trend lately.

After reading Red, White & Royal Blue, Her Royal Highness, and now American Royals (Truly Madly Royally is next!), I'm starting to think that American and royalty mixed up in one ya/na romance book is the next big trend. I have to assume it's been inspired by Meghan and Harry, but then again, it takes much longer than a year for books to be written, so I guess maybe this has been brewing for a while, perhaps inspired by the other royal wedding, or maybe even the events of 2016. Either way, this seems to be the trend this summer, and American Royals continues that. Unlike the other three I mentioned, this one is an alternate history novel in which George Washington established a dynasty of an American monarchy, and we are in the present day, watching the love lives of the three Washington siblings, Beatrice, Sam, and Jeff, play out. We get four POV characters, the aforementioned Beatrice and Sam, plus Sam's BFF Nina and Jeff's ex-girlfriend Daphne. I found all the female characters so compelling, and loved each of them very equally. Well, I don't love Daphne, but I loved reading about her. Perhaps this is because as POV characters we as readers are exposed to them more, but I found that the male characters, the love interests, didn't really match up. Jeff was kind of an idiot (honestly I kind of ship Sam and Nina), Ethan had potential but wasn't particularly important to the story, Teddy is also kind of boringly perfect, and Connor was similarly trope-y. This isn't to say that I didn't like this book, I really did! I can definitely see myself reading the sequel. Plot-wise it does revolve around those relationships quite a bit, but I also found that the relationships really tied into character development, not in the sense that the girls needed the men to transform them, but the romance was a way to effectively represent the character's desires and then bring forth character development.

This was a very smart, emotional, and especially relatable book that I'd recommend to anyone who might've read some of the other royal books and is looking for more.

I am not sure what it is, perhaps just that I cannot seem to connect with the writing style on this one, but no matter how many times I pick it up, I'm just completely unable to get into it. The premise sounded so interesting and - like so many others - I am completely fascinated by royal anything. Unfortunately, this one just didn't work for me.

It was a fun book. I enjoyed it, but there were some issues. This would have been better if it was a fictional country instead of an alternate history. It didn't explore nearly as much of this world as I would have liked. America having a monarchy had a ripple effect on other countries histories, but we saw very little of that. Also, there were four romances, but they varied in believably. Some were great with good chemistry, some didn't have enough interactions to match their feelings for each other.

Another Fall Release- September 3, 2019. Such an interesting concept. What if George Washington became our King instead of our President? Think about the US having a completely British type Royal Family. The book alternates POV between four characters:

HRH Princess Beatrice, who is next in the line to be the very first Queen of America. Her Father just changed over to a firstborn Royal Heir as opposed to the firstborn Male heir of tradition.

HRH Princess Samantha, Beatrice’s younger sister who is the spare heir and then of course is both more angsty and adventerous.

Daphne Deighton, commoner, the Prince Jeff’s ex-girlfriend who always seems to be plotting something and I wonder why we have her POV and not Jeff’s?

Nina Gonzalez, Samatha’s best friend who grew up in and out of the Royal household.

I wish this book had contained more world building. I wanted to know more about how the government was set up. Is is exactly like Britain? I would liked to read more about the history of the nation too. I enjoy a good back story.

All in all, it’s a solid 3 stars. Its a good Summer read. I don’t mind the third person POV, but I did get confused as to who was doing what a couple of times, that may be fixed in editing.

It hits all the basic monarch tropes and it is even pretty much all set up for a sequel.

Novel is a slow start, but once you get to know the characters and delve into their stories it is completely engaging. You go through all the emotions with the characters. Beatrice’s story is particularly interesting and could have had a novel completely devoted to her perspective. Daphne’s perspective seemed irrelevant, would have rather heard Jeff’s perspective rather than Nina or Daphne’s. But loved the novel overall and will definitely read a sequel if there is one.

I went into American Royals hoping it would be better than the author’s first book, The Thousandth Floor, but honestly it might have been worse. Probably the only thing it has going for it over that one is the one non straight main character doesn’t die at the end of the book, but it’s only because there isn’t one. Don’t worry though; Katherine McGee still loves to make marginalized people have great falls (one of the few people of color in this book is a Japanese girl who is in a coma). There were zero characters I was rooting for, and the plot was utterly predictable and derivative. I don’t recommend it.

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an advanced digital copy of American Royals in exchange for an honest review.

Katherine McGee’s newest book offers an alternate take on American history. What if instead of becoming the first President of the United States of America, he became its first King? American Royals is the story of a modern monarchy set in the United States.

This book is the first in what I believe to be a new Young Adult series - and it felt that way. A lot of time is spent introducing the various royal family members, their motivations and struggles. This particular book feels like a set up for future novels, and so detracted from the reading experience. It is definitely a YA book, the plot points felt predictable and contrived, but still reads easily enough. I think fans of royal dramas will enjoy it though. Quick to read, lightly romantic and light on the intrigue - this was just alright for me.

Though I wasn’t as taken by this as I had hoped I would be, I’m still intrigued enough to pick up the next installment to see where it goes.

First sentence: You already know the story of the American Revolution, and the birth of the American monarchy. You might know it from the picture books you read as a child. From your elementary school performances--when you longed to play the role of King George I or Queen Martha, and instead were cast as a cherry tree.

Premise/plot: American Royals is a contemporary what-if novel. What if George Washington had become King instead of President? More important still for the sake of this plot, what if George and Martha had had children to continue their legacy, their reign? What if the contemporary royal children were young, beautiful, and dating? What if their lives were falling into place like a parody of a soap opera during ratings? I haven't decided if this one is leaning more towards being a TV series on the WB or if it's leaning more towards a Hallmark romance movie. (It does open in December and feature holiday parties--Christmas and New Year's Eve.)

Has there ever been a more poor, unfortunate, soul than the heir-to-the-crown, Beatrice?! Beatrice is on the verge of womanhood--in all its splendors--when she's "forced" to propose to an eligible, wealthy young man whom she barely knows....all the while lusting for her bodyguard who is oh-so-dreamy. (His name is Connor.)

Don't let Samantha hear you (the reader) pitying, Beatrice!!! Sam's the poor, unfortunate soul!!! She really is. Her sister could PICK ANY OF LIKE SIX, YOU KNOW, ELIGIBLE GUYS to court, or whatever, and Beatrice had to go and pick the ONE GUY FROM THE LIST that Samantha had made out with in the coat closet!!!

Perhaps if someone deserves a "Bless his heart!" it's Jeffrey, Samantha's twin brother. Simply because he hasn't an observant brain cell in his body. But he does have two women fighting over him. Daphne and Nina. Nina met Samantha and Jeff when she was six. Technically, she's probably known and loved him the longest--even if it hasn't always been like-like or love-love. Nina is sincere and spirited. She's not afraid to tell Sam or Jeff the truth as she sees it. She grounds them in a way that no one else does. Daphne is--on paper--the absolute, perfect dream girl a Prince could have. But Daphne does not have a genuine bone in her body...Perhaps you're thinking WELL, MAYBE JEFF IS ONLY STUPID WHEN IT COMES TO WOMEN....well, what about Ethan?!?! Ethan has been his best friend since kindergarten...but Ethan surely has an agenda of his own....

My thoughts: It was silly. It was ridiculous. All hopes of it actually being a serious attempt at a what-if novel soon died. But would anyone actually ever in a hundred million years take seriously a what-if novel that supposes an American monarchy? (Assuming one that accounted for the fact that the actual George Washington did not have any offspring?) It strains credibility, doesn't it, that the actual George Washington would say YES to the throne. Would say YES to establishing a monarchy in America? So the further removed from reality the book takes us--the better, right? Probably.

But I was curious to see how well I could predict how all the characters get from point A to point B before the end of the novel....I think you could do just as well if you give it your time.

This one is super-silly and incredibly predictable. But sometimes the writing can put a smile on your face.

I was really excited to have a chance to read this one. I love the concept of an alternate America. I thought that was a pretty unique premise. However, I found the characters rather flat and one dimensional. There wasn't enough to set each of them apart from the other characters. And the writing never really hooked me. This wasn't a terrible read, it was just very easy to put down. I was never invested. Combined with the unresolved ending it just left me feeling very 'meh'. Not sure I'll come back for the sequel.

Engrossingly entertaining!!! Truly something special. I couldn't possibly have loved American Royals more. How many times have I wondered what it would be like if Harry and Meghan jumped the pond and took over the White House? American Royals isn't that exactlyyyyyy - it's better. This was the perfect summer read (and I'm dying to pick up the next book in the series!)

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to review this book.

What would have happened if America wasn't a democracy? What, instead, we were a monarchy? That's the idea that is explored in American Royals. It is the story of the Washington siblings, Beatrice, the future queen, and her twin siblings, Samantha and Jefferson. Each is struggling in their own way with the weight placed upon them by their legacy.

Beatrice will be queen, the first female to rule America. it is her birthright, and her duty. It is a role she has prepared for her entire life, but what happens when matters of the heart clash with royal duty?

Samantha feels like the forgotten child. The "spare" as it will, she rebels in every way she can, wanting nothing more than to be noticed. She sees herself as the antithesis of her older sister,

Finally, Jefferson, the youngest and only son, has his own growing pains. Single for the first time in 3 years, he is beginning to question the way life works around him.

Told in the point of view of the siblings, as well as Sam's best friend Nina and Jeff's ex Daphne, American Royals is a layered, tale of what it costs to be a modern royal. I don't know if it will be a series, or have a sequel, but I hope so!

I am very eager to admit that I cannot get enough of "royal life" types of reads, whether nonfiction or fiction in nature. Through this addictive story, readers get a glimpse at an alternate reality represented of an American royal family and the results are not only glittering with beautiful possibilities but completely engaging in every way. Love is a resounding theme throughout and I found myself completely captivated by the plot and involvement with the wonder of Princess Beatrice's character. Stories where the "course of history" is altered are wonderful, thought-provoking plot lines and this story will set a new benchmark as to expectations of this genre. I cannot wait to recommend this enough to friends and students because it will NOT disappoint! I look forward to reading more from McGee!

Katharine McGee is a must read author for those who enjoyed Gossip Girl, Pretty Little Liars, or The Thousandth Floor. In American Royals, it's an alternate-American history with a royal family. It's as if George Washington was given a crown instead of being made president. If you're expecting a Princess Diaries feel, you'll be pleased to know there is drama, romance, and excellent characters. The book does end with a cliffhanger, so hopefully there will be a sequel. Highly recommended to readers who enjoy YA drama such as Gossip Girl.

Will be using in a reading roundup this September for our website. I really love how this is kind of an alternate world, but very modern and understandable. What if we did have royals in America? Couldn't put down!

LOVED American Royals. I was intrigued by the alternate history angle, but kept reading for the well-developed characters. Each character has a distinct voice and I found myself rooting for each of them as the story unfolded. The setting was well imagined but did not overshadow the plot. I will certainly be purchasing this for my library and I hope to see a sequel!

The concept of an American Royal Family is what really piqued my interest in this book. Although I'm not a fan of books that take place in a political setting, this book didn't really focus much on it other than the simple notion of Beatrice being the first woman to rule over America. It doesn't get deep into politics which is probably why I was able to enjoy it so much because too much can make me bored with the story.

I'm not sure why, but the summary of this book was awfully confusing to me, but to simplify the characters, there are a total of four perspectives: Beatrice (the eldest child and first in line for the throne), Samantha (second daughter and the older twin to Prince Jefferson), Nina (Samantha's best friend who is a commoner), and Daphne (Prince Jefferson's ex-girlfriend). Out of all of these characters, Beatrice by far was my favorite, while Samantha and Daphne were my least favorite. Beatrice is painted to the public and to her family as a strong, smart, and elegant young woman who seemingly has it all. She is loved by almost everyone, but what makes her such a great character is that she tries her best to put her country first rather than herself. She makes so many self-sacrifices to stay in line with her role that no one notices how much she is suffering. In contrast, Samantha, on the other hand, is the spare to the throne, so she lives her life with more liberties than Beatrice ever had. Unfortunately, she isn't that pleasant of a character because she is basically a rebellious, self-centered, spoiled brat. She does redeem herself later on in the book, but still, the number of chapters that I had to read to get to that point was annoying. I'm a bit neutral about Nina because she is the most "normal" out of the girls because she's a commoner, but that was it. Her perspective just seemed normal, average even. I wasn't as excited as when a Beatrice chapter came up but was more grateful when a Samantha/Daphne didn't. Speaking of Daphne, she is simply defined as a gold-digger...or title-digger? Basically, all she cares is for a royal title and since she can only get one through Prince Jefferson, you can only imagine what her goals are.

The general tone of the story is very "Gossip Girl"-ly as there is drama between almost every character and of course there's the romance that just complicates things. Some romances I liked, others not so much or I just didn't really care for. I didn't know that this book was part of a duology, and since this ended on such a cliffhanger, I'm definitely going to be reading the sequel because I NEED A RESOLUTION! Overall, this was a fun, easy, quick read.