Imagine a present day America — an alternate universe, so to speak — where when America was founded, it opted to set up its own monarchy, rather than set up a democratic country. What would the US be like with a royal family? One about to get its first-ever ruling queen?
The vibes
Book 1 / Book 2 / Book 3 / Book 4 / nail kit / teapot / mug / tote / necklace / sunglasses
The review
First of all, this is a brilliant series. ANYone can see that, right?! Genius idea, inspired by America’s fascination with the British royal family. And as great of an idea it is, the execution is *chef’s kiss* — I’m just so bummed the series is officially complete because it means saying goodbye to this world!
The series follows four young women in this alternate universe America. The future queen, Beatrice; her younger sister, Princess Samantha; Sam’s best friend Nina, a non-royal; and Daphne, who’s set on getting her hands on the royal life by way of Prince Jefferson, Sam’s twin brother… who happens to be very into Nina, BTW.
Love triangles, social climbing, mind games, and more! I loved every scene, and so would anyone who was raised on Gossip Girl, The Clique, Princess Diaries, etc. The series does young adult without being too young, you know? I’m not the biggest YA fan bc some parts can be cringe, but cringe once I did not in the entire series.
Now, I can’t be held responsible for remembering everything from the three books I’ve read over the past few years, but I distinctly remember how they made me feel — like abandoning all responsibilities to devour every page! Katharine McGee even wrote a novella prequel that you need to read too!
I can tell ya that the last book — REIGN, out Aug. 29 — is a brilliant conclusion that gives you the best out of all your favorite characters, plus the drama you’ll know and love from the first three books. There’s even a new love interest for one girlie pop, plus the rekindling of not one but maybe even two former flames.
I have to add that the audio versions of the books are fantastic. Narrated by Brittany Pressley, the audiobooks are a big rec from me, even though I didn’t listen to the last one since I got an arc and read before the pub date.
Now, what could I possibly read next that is full of royal drama? I’ve already watched the Crown. SOS!
BookNerdalie 