The cover of the book is enchanting. The story was a fairy tale that was adjusted from other fairy tales. It did not go into depth very much, and was a bit confusing at times. Difficult to get into this book. I looked at other reviews to try and see what others thought of this book, but I could not envision those thoughts and ideas they had.

This fantasy novel based on the idea of happily ever after and asks the question of which is better; happy or ever after? They were protected from anything that might be negative in their life, and it compares what it would be like to live with no problems vs. having problems and challenges.
I enjoyed the unicorns that tooted fruit scents.

Rosamund ends up at the academy after being rudely awoken by a prince trying to kiss her. There, princesses are trying to escape their storylines. But things aren't as they seem and Rosamund must get to the bottom of what is happening
Opinion
This is a perfect story for children from 3rd-7th grade. With a mystery to solve and strange goings on, it is quite captivating. Towards the end, I thought this was going to be a one off story but was excitedly happy when London left it open for a sequel. Any child who loves princess stories or twists on old fairy tales will enjoy this book.
Many thanks to Net Galley and to Greenwillow Books for providing me with an ARC of this book.

I received an advance audio review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This was such an enjoyable read. The mix of all different types of fairy tales with references to their original tellings, even while abbreviating them for a middle grade audience, is a refreshing change from them being watered down and made more cutesy. I could absolutely see this as a movie in the future and look forward to it!

I love deconstructed fairy tales and this one did not disappoint. For a middle grade book, this had smart dialogue, clever characters, a fun backstory, and a really good message. I hope there is a sequel! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

Thanks to NetGalley for an audioARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This action packed and sometimes funny book is a new twist on fairy tale tropes. The princesses learn to take charge of their own stories and to question what is right and not just go with what is traditional or easy. The prince learns that it is ok to prefer going to the ball with another prince. And they all learn that sometimes gross, greasy boys are really unicorns in disguise, and that sometimes fairy godmothers may not have their best interests at heart.

Man, what a cute story inspired by fairytales. Princesses being saved from their stories and entering the real world? Amazing.

London, Alex, The Princess Protection Program. Pgs 240. HarperCollins, 2024

Not all Happily Ever Afters end the way they’re supposed to. When Rosamund is rudely awakened by Prince Charming’s kiss, she escapes into the bathroom. Soon, a door opens to another realm. There she finds the Princess Protection Program; a place princesses go when they escape their stories. She and her newfound friends attend Home Educational Academy. However, things aren’t what they seem. No one remembers any former students and the fairy headmistress doesn’t appear to be exactly who she says she is. Can Rosamund truly escape her fate? Do princesses ever graduate from the academy? What is really go on?

The plot is unique, engaging, magical, and humorous. The characters are recognizable from popular fairy tales and are easy to relate to. World building is well-done, and readers are easily drawn into Rosamund’s world. A must-read for fans who enjoy twisted tales or grew up reading Shannon Hale’s Princess in Black series. A great addition to any library collection. Gr 3 to 8, 5 stars