I can’t remember the last time I read a book that was this much FUN – from the very first page.
Please don’t be put off by a plot you might find implausible. Instead, do yourself a favor. Pick up this novel, suspend your disbelief, and enjoy a message of hope in our world of relentlessly bleak news cycles. Awarded four stars on Goodreads.
Ellen Claremont, the first woman to occupy the United States Presidency, is facing reelection. Her son, Alex Claremont-Diaz is a handsome, intelligent, charismatic millennial who puts all his considerable skills to work on behalf of his mother, while also imagining his own vibrant political future. That is until he comes face to face with his long-time nemesis and media rival — Prince Henry, the grandson of the Queen of England. That’s when Alex’s expertly crafted plans begins to disintegrate. Because, despite efforts by handlers from two countries, determined to avoid an international incident by convincing the media that there is NO rivalry, Alex and Henry’s “fake” bromance begins to take an unplanned turn.
Suddenly there are personal identity questions to explore, secrets to keep from closest family members, and very real fears about discovery. How might the re-election campaign be impacted? What about all those traditional courtiers at Buckingham Palace? What will the Queen do? Is there any way this situation can possibly end well?
You’ll meet some wonderful characters. Alex’s sister June, another intellectual powerhouse. Their longtime friend Nora, an IT whiz who happens to also be the granddaughter of the Vice-President. There’s June and Alex’s Dad, a LatinX U.S. Senator divorced from Ellen. And the ever-supportive Lou, the country’s First Husband. And let’s not forget Henry’s very stuffy older brother. Plus, a group of staffers from both sides of the pond, all of whom you will love.
The dialog is witty, the characters smart, the text messages a hoot! I encourage you to enter this alternative universe, where everything is possible and the pages whip by at blinding speed. Casey McQuiston has created something that is one-of-a-kind! I will be keeping my eye out for her next offering.
More about the author, Casey McQuiston.
You may be interested in my reviews of other books by McQuiston:
Toby A. Smith 