A Fresh Take on Royalty in America
Katharine McGee's American Royals offers a captivating "what if" scenario that reimagines U.S. history with a royal family at its center. With a 3.82/5 rating from over 126,000 readers on Goodreads, this 448-page novel blends alternate history with contemporary YA drama, creating a world where George Washington became America's first king instead of its first president.
Why Readers Are Obsessed
The book's strongest appeal lies in its brilliant world-building. McGee crafts a believable modern America where royal traditions coexist with smartphones and social media. Readers particularly praised how the author:
- Creates authentic royal protocols that feel both familiar and freshly American
- Balances palace intrigue with relatable teenage struggles
- Develops a complex web of relationships among the Washington siblings
Meet the Royal Washingtons
The story follows four compelling perspectives:
Princess Beatrice - The Heir
Burdened by her future crown, Beatrice's journey resonates with anyone who's felt trapped by expectations. Her struggle to balance duty with personal desires forms the book's emotional core.
Princess Samantha - The Spare
The younger, rebellious princess provides perfect contrast to her sister. Readers loved her fiery spirit and relatable mistakes.
Prince Jefferson - The Royal Heartthrob
Caught between duty and romance, his storyline adds romantic tension without overpowering the narrative.
Daphne - The Ambitious Outsider
Perhaps the most complex character, Daphne's calculated maneuvers add delicious drama to the royal court.
What Makes It Special
McGee's genius lies in making the extraordinary feel ordinary. She answers questions readers didn't know they had: What would royal weddings look like in America? How would paparazzi cover palace events? Would there still be prom? These thoughtful details create an immersive experience.
The pacing keeps pages turning with:
- Courtly intrigue worthy of a modern Versailles
- Smart commentary on fame and power
- Just enough real-world parallels to spark discussion
Who Will Love This Book?
American Royals perfectly suits:
- Fans of The Crown who want a younger, American version
- Readers who enjoy character-driven stories with multiple perspectives
- Anyone who's imagined what celebrity culture would look like with actual royalty
While some reviewers noted the romantic subplots occasionally overshadow the political intrigue, most agreed the balance makes the story accessible to younger readers while still satisfying older audiences.
Final Verdict
Katharine McGee has created a fresh, addictive take on royalty that's earned its popularity. With its mix of glamour, drama, and surprisingly deep character work, American Royals delivers exactly what readers want from alternate history - a world similar enough to recognize but different enough to fascinate.
Ready to visit this alternate America? Get your copy of American Royals today and join over 126,000 readers in this captivating royal drama.
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