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4.17 AVERAGE


September 5, 2024:

I meant to start this reread after the movie came out, in fact I meant to finish it before the movie even came out, but clearly that didn't happen. And I also clearly did not finish it anytime soon after the movie came out. I blame part of that on the fact that rereading is apparently a slog if you remember enough of the book — I had no inspiration to read this because I knew what was going to happen and it doesn't hold enough warm fuzzy memories for me to really want to reread it.

When I first read Red, White & Royal Blue in early 2020, it was my very first foray into the romance genre. I remember being thrown off by its casual narrative style, feeling like I was reading 400+ pages of fanfiction, a genre I respect but personally don't engage with. I still feel like that generalization is accurate — I simply do not vibe that much with CMQ's narration. But what it lacks in style, it makes up for with sheer absurd plot. There's no question that you have to suspend all disbelief to read this book, and that allows for a lot more fun for everyone. No need to question if any of this is realistic, because we've established from the get-go that's not what we're here for. We're here for fun! And fun it is.

No review written for 2020 read.
lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Hands down one of my favorite books. I saw when this book came out and decided it looked too good to be true. Then, friends starting reading it and raving about it, so I couldn't wait any longer. I started with the physical version of this book and ended up switch to audio, mainly because of time constraints. The audio is brilliantly done and it doesn't hurt that the verbalization of the emojis is quite funny. One of the main reasons I loved this book so much is because it felt real. Everything in it is believable. They're two people in love who happen to have status and family repercussions to consider, but that doesn't stop them from trying. I laughed out loud more times than I can count, and cried a few times too. So, looking for a book with a little bit of all the right stuff?...this is it. Reference to historical love letters, and also Star Wars, and just damn well written?...this is it! Essentially, you need to read this book. It will make you feel quite good, and sometimes we need that. Also, make time to read this book...it's seriously a one sitting book if you have nothing to do on a Saturday.

reading this in 2025 felt like a consolation prize. like, "hey, maybe you can't have a real female president, or a real competent president, but here, you can have a fictional one!"
but yeah, one of booktok's better books. 
emotional inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
emotional funny hopeful fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
funny lighthearted slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

This was everything I wanted. I loved this story so so much!

pink_tulips's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH

Booooring, why am I being explained American politics in so much detail?
funny hopeful lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes