Maybe it’s the fact that my TBR pile is roughly 36 books tall right now, or maybe it’s my individuality complex, but either way I waited until December 2020 to finally pick up Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston. And WOW, I wish I hadn’t waited so long!!
I freaking loved this book. The slow burn, the enemies to lovers, the vision of a more progressive America… amazing!
Alex and Henry had the best kind of love story- completely oblivious to the characters but painfully obvious to the reader. The premise of their relationship was so suspenseful and flirty, from the scandalous texts and late-night phone calls to the real-life scandals they started left and right. Something about the enemies to lovers trope is just so fun, at least when it isn’t happening to you!
My favorite parts of the book were actually their secret texts, emails, and phone calls when they were separated. It felt so real, like I was actually in Alex’s mind while reading. There were so many times in the book where I got butterflies in my stomach for them (you know, the New Year’s Eve party).
Not only was this love story the sweetest, but I also loved the moments between Alex, Henry, and the rest of their squad so much. They were such a fun, relatable friend group (dare I say quirky?) that I feel represented Gen Z perfectly.
Imagining a Trump-free America was pretty cool while following President Claremont’s campaign trail, and the sneak-peek into the lives of the “First Offspring” was really unique and interesting! As someone who was obsessed with the Obama girls in elementary school, I loved hearing Alex and June talk about the adventures of past presidential kids in the White House. On the political side, I also found the re-election campaign, betrayal of Senator Luna, and evil opponent Richards (he sounded eerily like another politician we know) to be such a riveting component to Alex and Henry’s journey. And if you’ve read this book already, you know how powerful Alex’s moment in Texas on election night was.
This story was so multifaceted and it was fascinating to see how each of the characters had a unique impact on Alex’s understanding of his identity, especially his relationship with Sen. Luna during Luna’s character arc.
It was such a treat to see Alex and Henry simultaneously experience their private and then suddenly very public love story (star-crossed-lovers anyone?), one too many political scandals, and the ins and outs of being a young adult whilst trying to figure out their own identities. Oh yeah, and all while trying to hide from the public eye in the age of smartphones.
Seriously, if you read one more book this year, let it be Red, White & Royal Blue. I could NOT put it down. I don’t think I have ever stayed up until four in the morning reading before… until last week! It has definitely made my list of top books for 2020, and maybe even my list of top 10 forever favorites.
Rating: 5/5 secret emails
If you’ve read this one I’d love to hear your thoughts!
xx, Lauren