Red, White & Royal Blue

So this won not one, but two Goodreads choice awards, for Best Romance and Best Debut Novel...mkay.



Short version: This book felt overly lengthy, uninspired, and quite dull. It was overloaded with politics when all I really wanted was a straightforward love story. I couldn't connect with a narrative that ultimately idealizes a lot of aspects of American imperialism and British colonialism.

Long version

While the book aimed to be a contemporary romance novel, it often felt more like an idealistic fantasy. The central premise of the First Son of the United States falling in love with a British prince was certainly intriguing, but the execution left much to be desired. The characters, especially Alex, the First Son, and Henry, the Prince, came across as one-dimensional and failed to undergo significant development throughout the narrative. They were plagued by stereotypes and clichés that made it difficult to truly connect with them on a deeper level.

Alex being the son of the first female president of USA, who's not only divorced and re-married but her first husband is Latin-American, and him being instrumental in turning Texas blue is straight up out of this world. As much as I wanted to believe in this scenario, I just couldn't suspend my disbelief. The heavy propaganda around American democracy didn't help either, as it's quite obvious that America is not the beacon of democracy it claims to be, not even on the democratic party side.

On the one hand, the book attempts to address and challenge some social issues with which I can align with. It contributes to the lgbtq+ representation in mainstream literature and tackles some diversity and inclusivity. These are commendable efforts towards fostering a more inclusive literary landscape.

However, my skepticism toward American politics, in general, made it challenging for me to fully embrace the story's portrayal of the political landscape. The book leaned heavily into idealized and oversimplified political caricatures.

The character development also left me wanting more. Alex and Henry, and the side characters, came across as one-dimensional and static. I had hoped for more growth and depth, particularly considering the potential of their unique love story. Instead, their relationship sometimes felt rushed and superficial, making it difficult for me to become emotionally invested in their journey.

For those who could look past its political arc and embrace its message of love and acceptance, it might have been an engaging read. However, for readers like me, who approach American politics with a significant degree of skepticism, the book's backdrop proved to be a stumbling block to fully enjoying its romantic narrative.