Title: Red, White & Royal Blue
Author: Casey McQuiston
Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin
Publication Date: May 14, 2019
Ratings: 4/5
Plot Synopsis from Goodreads:
First Son Alex Claremont-Diaz is the closest thing to a prince this side of the Atlantic. With his intrepid sister and the Veep’s genius granddaughter, they’re the White House Trio, a beautiful millennial marketing strategy for his mother, President Ellen Claremont. International socialite duties do have downsides—namely, when photos of a confrontation with his longtime nemesis Prince Henry at a royal wedding leak to the tabloids and threaten American/British relations. The plan for damage control: staging a fake friendship between the First Son and the Prince.
As President Claremont kicks off her reelection bid, Alex finds himself hurtling into a secret relationship with Henry that could derail the campaign and upend two nations. What is worth the sacrifice? How do you do all the good you can do? And, most importantly, how will history remember you?
Book Review
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston is a heartwarming and charming contemporary romance novel that explores love, friendship, and the complexities of politics. With its engaging characters, witty dialogue, and a refreshing storyline, McQuiston delivers a delightful and entertaining read that is sure to leave readers with a smile on their faces.
The characters in Red, White & Royal Blue are vibrant and relatable, with distinctive personalities that leap off the pages. Alex and Henry are compelling protagonists, both struggling with their identities and responsibilities. Their journey of self-discovery and love is beautifully portrayed, capturing the nuances and complexities of their relationship. The supporting cast, including their friends and family, adds depth to the story and provides a diverse range of perspectives. McQuiston’s characterization is one of the strengths of the novel, as each character feels fully realized and contributes to the overall narrative arc.
Casey McQuiston’s writing style is witty, engaging, and filled with humor and banter. The dialogue is sharp and fast-paced, reflecting the dynamics between the characters. McQuiston effortlessly captures the voices of both Alex and Henry, infusing their perspectives with humor and vulnerability. The prose is accessible and flows smoothly, making the book an easy and enjoyable read. Additionally, the inclusion of emails, text messages, and other forms of communication adds a contemporary and realistic touch to the storytelling.
Red, White & Royal Blue explores themes of love, identity, and the impact of public scrutiny. The novel portrays a beautiful romance that transcends boundaries and challenges societal expectations. It examines the complexities of being in the public eye and the sacrifices that come with political power. McQuiston’s exploration of LGBTQ+ relationships and queer identity is commendable, portraying them with authenticity and sensitivity. The blending of the romantic and political elements adds depth to the story, emphasizing the power of love and the importance of personal growth.
Red, White & Royal Blue is a delightful contemporary romance that tackles important themes with humor, heart, and authenticity. Casey McQuiston’s engaging writing style, well-developed characters, and a unique premise make this novel a standout in the genre. While the overall storyline may follow familiar tropes, the charming romance and witty banter between the characters keep the reader invested. Red, White & Royal Blue earns a solid four-star rating for its enjoyable and heartfelt narrative. Fans of contemporary romance and LGBTQ+ representation will find this book to be a refreshing and uplifting read.