My Review
Oh my stars, I simply had to tell someone about this book I just finished - "The Prince of New York" from the Royal States series! I've been absolutely devouring these magical alternate history novels lately, and this one kept me up until 3 AM (worth every yawn at work the next day, darlings).
As someone who adores when authors weave together complex character threads, I was delighted by how this book brought back familiar faces from earlier in the series. It's like running into old friends at a party you didn't expect to see! The way the author handles Prince Ian's journey, especially dealing with the aftermath of childhood trauma, is both sensitive and realistic - though I should mention there are trigger warnings for parental abuse themes.
The magical elements continue to enchant me - I mean, who doesn't love kitty dragons? And the whole concept of magic returning to Earth and reshaping America into royal states still feels fresh even ten books in. The blend of comedy with serious themes is masterfully done, though I will say the plot sometimes feels like it's trying to juggle too many balls at once. There's rather a lot happening with various thriller elements and side plots that don't always come together as smoothly as I'd have liked.
What I particularly adored was the character development and the wonderful menagerie of animals that appears throughout the story. The author has this knack for writing dialogue that makes me laugh out loud (much to the confusion of my cat). However, I was a bit disappointed that the romance aspect felt somewhat underdeveloped compared to previous books in the series.
I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who's already invested in the Royal States series - though newcomers should absolutely start with book one! It's not perfect, but it's a thoroughly enjoyable addition to the series that had me both laughing and feeling all the feelings.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 out of 5 stars)
Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go reread my favorite parts while sipping my evening tea!
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Book Description
His Royal Highness Prince Ian Ambrose of New York longed to fade into the background and vanish following the supposed deaths of his parents and the rise of his sister to Queen of New York. While serving as his sister’s advisor creates trouble, it also allows him to turn trash into treasures in his junkyard.
Upon his sister’s primary RPS agent discovering his task force had dropped the ball, Ian is thrust back into the center of politics. To complicate matters, the one woman his heart desires is assigned to keep him organized and on the straight and narrow. Between Madeline’s determination and drive to serve his sister and a trip to California, he’ll be tested like never before.
But when whispered rumors of his parents’ return from the grave reach him, Ian will have to push himself to the limits of his wits, his sanity, and his talent.
Should he fail, he’ll lose his sister and the love of his life along with his kingdom.
Warning: this novel contains difficult subject matter. Read at your own discretion.
Susan Copperfield is the royal romance, urban fantasy loving alter ego of award-winning & USA Today bestselling novelist R.J. Blain.
Under the super not-so-secret identity of Susan, the Royal States of America is explored, where the work of sixteen founding royal families preserved the United States from destruction and civil war when magic swept over the world.
In the Royal States, life, love, and magic always finds a way.
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