Rules of Royalty....this novel is nothing but FUN!!!! How awesome to learn as a teenager that you are not just a nerdy high school kid, but an actual prince of a European country!! This happens to Jamie Johnson. He is offered a mentor, in the form of another teen like himself, to aid in his royal etiquette training. Jamie's counterpart, Erik, has been promised, by his family, and against his wishes, to another for a romantic relationship. Read to find out what happens when sparks begin to fly in the royal kingdom.

I love the princess diaries so when I read the description, I knew I had to give it a try. It really did feel like a princess diaries type tale with the finding out as a teen that your dad is a king of another country, the make over, the prince training lessons, etc. It was a fun and cute novel but at times it could have been better. I enjoyed the growing romance between Erik and Jamie. It was cute but didn't give me the deep tummy butterflies. But again still very cute and just because I didn't get the butterflies doesn't mean it didn't hit me in the feels. The book has a lot of fluff and I'm glad that it didn't have a lot of paparazzi scandal stuff happening with Jamie being an outsider and with Jamie and Erik dating in secret. That could have had a lot of scandal, but it was very nice to not have that dark side. I will say that I didn't like the whole fake dating plot point that was forced on Erik and Sebastian. It barely existed and seemed like we could have done without. That being said, I would be down to read a story about Sebastian. He wasn't there much but I think he would have an interesting romance to read. Overall an enjoyable read and it you love the princess diaries and queer stories then I think you should check this one out.

Audio book specific: I liked both narrators. I think they both did a great job on their respective characters. I thought Erik's narrator did a better job with all the accents than Jamie's did. So having such drastically different sounding accents was a bit weird at times but easy to get past. I also love Erik's narrator because Max Meyers is one of my favorite narrators so I'm a bit biased.

Content warning: death of parent


thank you to macmillan audio and wednesday books for the gifted copys. all thoughts are my own

I loved this book. I the Princess Diaries and so I loved the LGBTQIA+ spin on it. I definitely want to read more from this author going forward. This is a must read for fans of queer romance books. Run to go pick this book up.

This was a cute read inspired by The Princess Diaries. Jamie's world is turned upside down when he finds out he's the heir to the throne in Mitanor. When he travels there to meet his father, he is introduced to Erik, a prince from another kingdom and sparks fly. While the plot is pretty unrealistic, it was still fun. Jamie's character was really sweet and Erik was also a fun character. They had adorable chemistry and I loved that their parents were supportive of them. Overall, its a really cute young adult romance. I listened to the audio and thought the narrators were fantastic and at expressing the characters emotions.

Many thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the advance copy!

This book gives off "Princess Diaries" vibes, but the characters are much more put together. Jamie is living his best life until his 17th birthday arrives and everything changes. His late mother made everyone promise not to tell Jamie that his dad is the King of Mitanor, a small European country until he turns 17. For a "commoner," Jamie has it pretty good: he has a great friend group and a solid life plan, though his love life could use some help because he is painfully shy and a bit insecure.

Jamie and his (adoptive) mom and stepdad fly to Mitanor to meet his father and spend the summer there. While in Mitanor, he meets Prince Erik, the Prince of another small European country, Sunstad, who is second in line to the throne after his brother. Erik is tasked with tutoring Jamie on how to be a prince, but his grandmother, the Queen, tells him to keep it platonic. The Queen also insists that she will dictate who Erik dates and marries; you need her blessing to pursue any romantic relationships if you are part of the royal family. Despite their vastly different upbringings, these two characters share many similarities, and, of course, they are both very attractive.

In this YA romance, we have a sweet connection between the two main characters, who grew up in contrasting circumstances. One character has both parents, but their relationship resembles more of a business arrangement, lacking warmth, even though he still feels a sense of love and care. In contrast, the other character does not have either biological parent—one has passed away and the other is kept secret—but he enjoys a loving and communicative relationship with his adoptive family.

The "born prince" is involved in secret hookups, while the American prince has never been kissed and struggles with shyness. What makes this story shine is the excellent communication between the characters. I dislike it when a romance resolves everything simply through talking, but these characters are honest and open with each other, which is refreshing. Overall, the story is sweet yet typical; there isn’t much that feels new or different except for the representation of the LGBTQI+ community, which is great. The narrative is entertaining and perfect for readers aged 12-19.

In terms of narration, I felt that the voice actor for Prince Erik sounded too old for the part. I’m not sure how old he is in real life, but he doesn’t sound like a 17-year-old; he sounds more like a full-grown man. He does a great job overall, but the teen angst and pining come off as odd coming from him. The voice actor for Jamie was a bit older as well but felt slightly more age-appropriate. He did an excellent job bringing Jamie to life, and I found myself preferring to listen to Jamie over Erik. I also liked Jamie more than Erik; despite having his life turned upside down, he seemed to have a clearer perspective.

This was a very bland book that repeated every feeling or thought no less than three times, often from both character's perspectives. It is very low stakes considering Jaime learns he is the illegitimate son of a King. There was a lot of plot points that count have made this more interesting but it was really just a star crossed lovers story, as Jamie falls in love with the prince of another country and his grandma won't let them date.

Total snoozefest.

A very cute YA queer story about a secret prince - very "Princess Diaries" meets "Red, White & Royal Blue". Lighthearted, sweet and an all around feel good novel.

I normally don't read books with a royal setting, so this was out of my norm, but I really enjoyed this story! I thought it was very sweet. I loved the setting, and I thought the author did a great job with descriptions. The romance and characters were believable. This is a great story, and I definitely will be recommending it to our patrons and my romance-loving friends! I enjoyed the narrator as well.

Thank you to the author and publishers for the opportunity to review this audiobook.

Cale Dietrich’s The Rules of Royalty is a dazzling blend of romance, drama, and self-discovery set against the glittering backdrop of modern royalty. With Dietrich’s signature wit and heart, this novel offers a fresh twist on royal tropes while diving into themes of identity, privilege, and staying true to oneself. Packed with charm, humor, and emotional depth, this is a must-read for fans of contemporary stories with a regal flair.

Cale Dietrich’s The Rules of Royalty is a heartwarming, romantic, and delightfully regal tale of identity, duty, and love. With its lush settings, layered characters, and a romance that feels both tender and profound, this book is a must-read for fans of modern royal stories and LGBTQ+ romance.

Jamie Johnson, a grounded and likable protagonist, is thrust into the spotlight when he learns he’s the heir to the throne of Mitanor, a fictional sun-drenched European country. As he navigates the overwhelming world of royal life and begins to build a relationship with the father he never knew, Jamie’s journey feels authentic and deeply personal. Across the continent, Erik Lindstrom, a charming but overshadowed spare prince, struggles to find his place within a family and country that prioritize perfection over individuality. The contrast between Jamie’s sudden rise and Erik’s simmering frustrations sets the stage for a heartfelt connection.

When Erik is invited to tutor Jamie in royal etiquette and protocol, sparks fly in more ways than one. Their chemistry is palpable, but Dietrich balances their romance with the weight of their responsibilities, making their journey both swoon-worthy and emotionally resonant. The push and pull between duty and desire is explored beautifully, and the summer palace setting adds a dreamy, cinematic quality to their budding relationship.

The audiobook, provided by Macmillan Audio, enhances the experience with outstanding narration. Each prince’s voice is distinct, capturing Jamie’s uncertainty and Erik’s stoic yet vulnerable demeanor perfectly. The lush descriptions of palaces, formal events, and quiet moments between Jamie and Erik are brought vividly to life, making the audiobook an immersive delight.

Dietrich also weaves themes of self-discovery, family expectations, and the weight of tradition into the narrative, giving the story depth beyond its romantic core. The political and royal elements feel well-researched, and the stakes are high enough to keep readers engaged until the satisfying conclusion.

I’m grateful to St. Martin’s Press for granting me access to the book via NetGalley and to Macmillan Audio for the audiobook. Both formats are excellent, but the audiobook adds an extra layer of charm that makes it a standout.

The Rules of Royalty is a romantic escape that’s as heartwarming as it is thought-provoking. With its mix of glamour, heartfelt connections, and a swoon-worthy love story, this is a book you won’t want to miss. Fans of modern royal tales and sweet LGBTQ+ romances will be eagerly awaiting what Cale Dietrich writes next!

Ordinary high school student Jamie Johnson gets the surprise of his life when, on his 17th birthday, he learns that his biological father is the king of a small European country. This means that Jamie is a prince! He leaves the U.S. to spend a summer in Mitanor and needs lessons in how to conduct himself as a royal, so he is introduced to Erik Von Rosenborg, the prince of a neighboring country. It turns out that they have a lot in common, including a mutual attraction. But Erich's grandmother, the queen, doesn't approve. Can they find a way to be together regardless?

I read a lot of reviews likening this book to The Princess Diaries (and the blurb for the book makes this comparison, too). Yes, the foundational premise is pretty similar, but that's basically where the similarities end. I thought that Jamie and Erik were absolutely adorable together and I love that ALMOST everyone is supportive of each of them. I kept waiting for them to get caught while they were sneaking around as a secret couple and it never happened, which seemed so hard to believe, but otherwise I thought the story was told really well.

Both audiobook narrators were perfectly chosen for this story.

4.5 stars.

The Rules of Royalty by Cale Dietrich is a cozy and queer retelling of The Princess Diaries featuring an American teen who learns his father is the king of a small European country on his seventeenth birthday. Meanwhile, a queer second son from another kingdom receives an offer to tutor the newly found American prince in the ways of royalty.

This was cute, but I had to suspend my disbelief a bit too much and it was a little on the slow side for me. In the end, I DNFed at 55%. This is really geared towards the YA audience and as an adult reading it, it didn't really hold my interest. I wish there was a bit more conflict.

I think both narrators did a pretty good job with the audiobook, which I listened to while following along in my physical copy. Blended reads are very much my vibe at this point in my life.

I think this would be a great option for queer teens who love low stakes in their books and wished The Princess Diaries was more gay. The publisher recommends it for fans of Becky Albertalli (whom I haven't read yet) and Casey McQuiston.

Thank you so much to Macmillan Audio for the complimentary audio!

This is my second book from Cale Dietrich and it was such a DELIGHT! And I really mean a delight. Cale was a co writer on one of my all time favorites, If This Gets Out so I knew that I already enjoyed his writing style.

Jamie turns 17 and learns that he is heir to the throne in a European country called Mitanor. I love how his family was open to him about his birth mother and then when learning of this news also learns about his father. I was waiting for Jamie to be upset or to have such a negative reaction but that was not the case. When he does meet his father King Alexander, it was nothing but opened arms and warm welcomes. So who is the lucky fellow who wins over Jamie's heart? None other than Prince Erik of Sunstad.

See King Alexander thought that Jamie needed someone his own age to help guide Jamie on how to be a royal. But Jamie also wonders if his father paired them together because they both are openly gay so there was that extra comfort. Their relationship was just the cutest and I love seeing their friendship blossom! It was really obvious that their feelings for each other was more than just friendship. There were a bunch of obstacles that was getting in the way of them having an actual relationship. I am glad they were able to work through those challenges to be able to give us that HEA.

There was a side storyline involving Jamie and his American friends and their journey with learning of his new life. As the reader, you could see the walls starting to crumble in the relationship between Jamie and his best friend Max. Things were changing rapidly and neither knew how to navigate this new world. I was glad to see that they were able to resolve their issues by having a conversation.

I paired my reading with the audio and this audio had two fabulous narrators: Major Curda, Max Meyers. Max Meyers is a pro narrator and I have enjoyed all the books that I have listen to with them as narrator. They have a very distinctive tone (not a bad thing) and I know what I'm in for while listening. Major Curda is a new narrator to me but I would certainly listen to him narrate again in the future. Each narrator brought their characters to life and even made them sound vulnerable at times.

This book just really made me smile and was just so darn enjoyable!

If you are a fan of The Princess Diaries meets Red, White & Royal Blue, definitely give this one a read!

4.5

I actually enjoyed this more than I thought I would but it wasn't overly exciting or captivating. I liked the characters and the loved the royalty aspect. This is basically a gay princess diaries and I was here for it. Overall I really liked how everything played out. I just didn't think it was very exciting getting there. I think this could have used a little something to make it more dynamic. Sam was a good character but I felt like she wasn't used to her full potential a better, more central plot line could have been created for her. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

This was fine, it just wasn't geat--and it should've been. A guy who finds out he's a prince a la Princess Diaries gets etiquette lessons from a gay prince from a controlling family, and the two fall for each other. I wish this was as good as the premise, but the execution was somewhat lacking. It took me way too long to get invested in a story I was initially very excited for, and I never found the story itself as interesting as I think it should / could have been. Alas.

This was a cute easy queer read! I liked it better than red white and royal blue. It felt like the queer version of the princess diaries, but the prince consented to his new life.

This was definitely a Hallmark feeling book, with lots of Princess Diaries vibes. As a fan of the Princess Diaries, I really did enjoy this book as a quick and fun read. Fluffy comfort is what I’d call this story. Jamie and Erik are lovable main characters, even though Erik could be a little standoffish at times. It was enjoyable, and I would recommend this to those who like a hallmark movie romance or the Princess Diaries.

Thank you to NetGalley for the audio arc to preview.

Thank you to Wednesday Books for the free book and to Macmillan Audio for the complimentary audiobook. These opinions are my own.

This was just delightful and even more so than I anticipated. Jamie is a regular teenager when his adoptive mom sits him down to share his lineage. It turns out he is a Prince of Minator. And his father, the King, wants him to come visit for the summer. The king recommends Erik, the second son prince of a neighboring country as a contact who can help Jamie with the transition to being a prince.

There were so many sweet moments. I thought the family drama and pressures were handled in a well that transcended the fantastical royal plot and can just resonate with current youth.

I also greatly appreciated that both men were out and accepted. This book celebrates queer joy. I know there's a place for more difficult coming out stories, but sometimes it's such a relief to read a book where people are accepted for who they are and love.

I would have liked a bit more from secondary characters, especially Jamie's friends from the US. They felt like they existed only to move the plot forward and weren't quite as fleshed out as I prefer.

Overall, this was a fun royal romance and a great queer spin on Princess Diaries. The audiobook format was a delight with dual narration by Major Curda and Max Meyers. They performed all the parts seamlessly.

I love royal romances and RWRB is one of my favorite books, so I had really high expectations for The Rules of Royalty and it did not disappoint! I absolutely loved Jamie and Erik's story and I was really rooting for them the whole time. Thanks to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for the advanced copy!

This was a really good book. Definitely gave off "The Princess diaries" vibes. Jamie finds out his father is a king. Like in the princess diaries Jamie will have to be schooled in how to behave like a prince. Erik, from a neighboring kingdom is picked to train him. Both of them are gay, but Eriks grandmother, the queen of Sunstad, does not want Erik to get involved with Jamie.
I loved the interactions between Jamie and Erik. It was so well written and I didn't want to put the book down till I found out what happened.
Well worth a read!

The audio version was perfect. The narrators did an excellent job!