lil228

[lil228]

Red White and Royal Blue Wrap Up

Wrap Up

Rating: 9.5/10 

Prediction Points: 7

Who I would recommend this book to: Any young people who are queer, or queer allies, those who like happy endings, people who like romance and don’t mind a little bit of cheese. 

Quick Thoughts

It’s books like these that remind me why I read. I read to feel less alone, I read for enjoyment, I read to feel emotions. I read to connect with other people, and I read to become a better writer. This books did all of those things for me. I giggled and held back tears. It is books such as Red White and Royal Blue that make me feel like there is a place for queer romance in mainstream and literature and pop culture.  The characters are well rounded, the plot is original, the romance believable and compelling. In short I love this book.

Characters 

Favorite Character: Prince Henry and Amy.

The characters in this book were each unique and felt like real people. They spoke and acted like real people. The young 20 somethings behaved like real 20 somethings. They never used outdated slang, or acted like 45 year olds. All of the character who were supposed to likable were, and they were easy to root for. The book did a really nice job with Helen who could have easily been written as another workaholic parent who no time for her children, but she isn’t. It’s clear that she cares about her children, and views herself as a mother first and then the President. She is a realistic depiction of a mother who both loves her children, and can be frustrated by them at times. Each character felt unique, and everything they said (or typed/texted) and did felt real. Each character had a unique voice. I do wish we had either gotten more Pez, or that the author had cut him entirely, apart from the youth shelters he seemed to have little to no impact on the plot or other characters much- especially compared to June, Nora and Bea. I also wish that we had gotten mention of  Amy having a wife or being trans a little earlier as I think it would have made the representation a bit more impactful.  

Plot

I knew I wanted to read this book as soon as I heard the premise. I don’t normally read romance because I don’t enjoy reading about conflicts within a relationship, and I usually end up thinking one of the parties at least a little bit on an ass. However I adore forbidden/secret romance stories. I like these stories because the source of conflict comes from outside the relationship, rather than from within the relationship. This book also handles the enemies to lovers aspect really well. The characters have a genuine, honest conversation about what has caused the atomicity, and are able to work through it, and genuine apologies are given. I also like that the reason Alex doesn't like Henry isn’t something Henry did with malicious intent, but Henry still apologizes. I also really like that both Henry and Alex’s immediate families (minus Philip) were supportive. The spicy senses were implied in a tasteful way, but I was still a little uncomfortable reading them, but I really think that this comes down to the fact that I was reading the book at work, and that I am still new to reading books with that type of content.

Final Thoughts

This book was amazing. I know that it can be cheesy at times, but I think that’s part of why I like it. Not every queer love story has to end in disownment or disaster, sometimes the romance works out, and the characters are happy by the end. This book made me fall in love with reading all over again. The humor is great, and the serious moments do a great job at invoking emotions. This book was chalk full of distinct and likable characters. Both Alex and Henry are likable and charming in their own ways, both they and their romance was easy to root for. This book also dose a nice job at exploring some difficult topics such as homophobia, invasions of privacy, coming out, politics discovering ones sexuality, being outed, and public vs private images of public figures. It manages to handle of these topics while still managing to be a lovely romance. I love this book and have a feeling it will be one that I re-read at least a few times. 

[lil228]

Red White and Royal Blue Notes Day 8

WARNING- Spoilers for both the book and the movie

Despite the fact that Henry’s mom is dealing with a lot, but she’s still here for her son. That’s so sweet! We love supportive moms!

Catherine is so nice to Alex and that’s just so sweet.

I have a feeling the meeting with Queen Mary’s not going to go well.

Would she technically be Queen Mary The II? When dose the books timeline diverge from our own? I mean Anne Boylen is mentioned, and it seems the rest of history is mostly the same so I’m going to guess it diverges around 2015 ish. That would mean that she is Queen Mary II

Dose Trump exist in this timeline? It dosen’t really seem like it. So dose he not exist at all or did he just never get involved in politics? Dose Hillary Clinton exist? I mean she must exist at least as a former first lady but did she- none of this actually matters. I mean it’s what I thought about but it’s not important to the book.

Queen Mary is the worst! Not only is she homophobic but she’s also racist! Boo! Hiss!

Look I don’t want to be that guy but there might be some parallels between the fictional Queen Mary and the really Queen Elizabeth. And this came out before Meagn and Harry talked to Orpha. 

It’s also probably not a coincidence that this queen is named Mary, which is also the name of Mary I- half sister to Elizabeth I, and who is often called bloody Mary. 

I just want to give poor Henry a hug. He dosen’t deserve this bullsh*t

Catherine really is a good mum.

Yes Henry stand up for yourself sweet boy!

Alex dosen’t need you permission to do anything ma’am! (Queen Mary) He dosen’t even have to bow to you! I googled it out of curiosity one day, Americans- and any non-brit for that matter- don’t have to bow to the Queen or King of England 

 Philp shut the f*ck up, nobody aksed why are you even here?

I watched the movie, so I knew what was coming, but it was so much better and more heartwarming in the book somehow.

The Alex and Henry were here banner got a good laugh out of me.

Look I know this whole thing seems pretty cheesy, but straight people have the whole Hallmark Channel, queer people should get cheesy romance too!

Yes Catherine! You go future queen!

Philp! Shut. The. Fu*k. Up!

Bea is the MVP for getting Philp the hell out of there.

Okay that mural sounds stunning! I hope there’s fan art! I’d do it myself but I cannot draw, like at all.

I wish that headline was real! Also is Dykes on Bikes is a real thing? Oh my gosh it is! And it’s a motorcycle group! I don’t know why I thought it was a cycling group, it being a motorcycle group makes way more sense!

I love that June bought merch, also I would a thousand percent buy and wear a “History, huh?” t-shirt. Both in the book universe and in this one.

Uh where the f*ck is Nora? What is she doing? Is she okay?

Lol, I love that Nora just bursts in, and addresses the President of United States by shouting her first name.

The Richards campaign! They’re responsible? Invading people’s privacy and outing them for a political campaign is just a whole new zip code of f*cked up.

Wait! Wait! Rafael Luna told Nora about the leaks! Holy heel-face turn batman!

I’m so exited for Henry and Alex to be together publicly. 

Okay this books timeline/universe is clearly better than ours

No Trump (or at least he’s not involved in politics)

A gay prince 

A bi first son

A beloved high profile same sex couple 

No Covid

I’m really impressed by June’s speech writing abilities

I love Amy! She’s the best!

Amy has a WIFE? Just when I couldn’t thought she couldn’t get better! She’s been gay the whole time! Why am I just learning this now!

Amy is trans too!

After a quick google search I learned that Amy was played by a trans actress in the movie! That’s amazing!

 Cash is pan! Damn Helen and Zahra are the only straight ones in the White House! 

“Stupid Sam the Eagle face” got a good laugh out of me.

Okay so Senator Luna actually that bad, but he did switch sides, so I’m going to keep prediction point.

Okay nevermind, he was double agent the whole time! I’ll give back my prediction point I’m back down to 7.

Holy Sh*th Richards is a truly terrible person. He outed two young adults and he abused/ is abusing/sexualy exploting his staffers! What a POS.

Henry staying in the Queens Room- which is Dolores Umbridge of pink- made me giggle. But is makes sense, the internet tells me it is named after the many royals who have stayed there.

It makes me so happy that Alex gets to do all of the official royal suitor things!

I’m just so happy that these two get to love each other publicly now. 

The youth shelters! 

Why is Philip here. Go away!

Okay, maybe I was a bit harsh, Philip is at least trying to be nice.

Nora and Alex getting exited about their futures is so cute!

The jacket is a really nice touch.

I audibly squealed when June said she got a book deal.

It’s sweet that the candid photo is the one that got published.

Out of everything in this book I having the hardest time believing that Texas voting blue.

Henry wearing a tie with yellow rose tie, because of the yellow rose of Tx is so adorable. 

Liam! I was not expecting that! 

  Liam reaching out to Alex after he got outed was really nice of him.

Okay, we must protect Spencer at all costs 

I can relate to June stress eating.

Cash dancing on the chair made me giggle!

Amy is still the flipping best!

I think Zahra gets a pass for making out in public. She was incredibly stressed like two seconds ago.

Henry bought a place in Brooklyn! Squeal! 

Zahra is going to need the worlds longest nap after all of this

Henry being on stage during the victory speech! Oh my heart!

The double meaning of we won is just brilliant! 

Alex and Henry in Alex’s childhood home is so adorable! 

[lil228]

Red White and Royal Blue Notes Day 7

Warning: Spoilers for both the book and the movie

I think it’s funny that Zahra also has a secret relationship going on.

Zahra calling Alex Princess was pretty funny.

I honestly can’t believe there hasn’t been leaked footage of Henry and Alex before now. As Alex himself says that’s not even the riskiest thing they’ve done.

I’m seriously beginning to think that a bunch of people know about Henry and Alex, they’ve just kept their mouths shut about it.

June is the best older sister, she would do anything for her brother.

I fell so bad for Henry and Alex, to be in the closet is one thing, but to have to fake date someone to try to convince people must really stink

Yes Alex you go off on Senator Luna!

Luna telling Alex to pretend to be straight for the rest of his life is so disheartening. I think what Luna is getting at is that’s easier to live as a straight person than it is to live as a queer person, especially  as a public/political figure.

Alex  buddy, drinking is probably not the best coping strategy right now. 

Alex’s email about Henry’s mouth is surprisingly romantic

322- Oh sh*t things just got very real.

Having you emails leaked must feel icky. It’s a huge invasion of privacy even if your not in a secret gay relationship with another public figure. 

“Priority number one is damage control, not feelings.” (324). I feel bad for Alex, his privacy has been invaded, he’s been outed, he’s worried about Henry, yet he’s not allowed to talk to Henry, and he can’t focus on himself or Henry because he has to fu*king damage control. 

I have three predictions for Alex’s conversation with his mother 1.The first words out of Helen’s mouth are going to be something to the effect of “are you okay?” 2. The topic of Henry being forever is going to come up 3.There will be a reference to a PowerPoint.

And that’s another prediction point for me! I’m at seven now!

It’s really heartwarming to hear Ellen tell Alex that she’s his mother first and the president second. I love how supportive she is. 

“Do you feel forever about him?” (327). And that ladies, gents, and fancy non binary folks is another point for me bringing my grand total to eight. 

Oh come on there are so many names the press could have given these emails, and yet the went with the Waterloo papers! I mean really? 

Poor Alex is just in a daze.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it June is the best older sister (tied with Bea of course.)

 So Alex and June are just going to hop on a plane and demand to see Henry? I guess it did  work for Alex earlier.

I love how supportive Ellen is of her son. 

“You’re giving my ulcer an ulcer- Zahra (336) Amazing!

Okay so not only is Philip a homophobe but he smashed a centuries old vase! I hate him even more now

Aww Zahra’s rooting for them!

Bea is continuing to be an amazing older sister

Henry’s mom seems really depressed and isolated but she told Henry she loved him.

Oh my gosh! I completely forgot the Bea’s secret would be exposed. She’s taking it really well, thought. 

Have I mentioned how amazing Bea is?

“I love him on purpose” Alex (344)

Yes Henry is standing up for himself! Go Henry!

[lil228]

Red White and Royal Blue Notes Day 6

The whole scene in the art gallery was just to cute! My heart!

I love that Henry has also read Jane Eyre. He loves the classics and I love that. I really think that more people should read classics, and I wish that they more accessible to people because they are fun!

Wait, wait, do we think Great Expectations is actually Henry’s favorite novel, or is that just what it says on his fact sheet because that’s what’s been deemed an acceptable response. From what I’ve read it seems like his favorite book might be one of Jane Austen’s books, or Middlemarch, or something along those lines

Still loving those quote from letters in the emails.

I love how simple Alex’s image of Henry being happy is so simple. 

Poor Henry I wish his coming out to Philip had gone better

I feel so bad for Henry, it’s clear that he doesn't want to live the traditional royal lifestyle, and yet is being forced upon him his whole life.

Wow! Henry’s explanation of grief and memories and seeing Alex is so painful and honest and beautiful at the same time. I had to just put the book down and just… process for a moment. 

I love that Henry and Alex have a little support system in Nora, Bea, June and Pez.

Aww, Alex’s love list is so sweet.

[lil228]

When the Holidays are Hard

I wanted to take a quick break from the books to share a holiday message. For some people the holidays are hard. They bring mixed emotions of joy and sadness. There is happiness in the stockings hung on the mantle and pain at the one that hasn't been put up. There is glee in finding the perfect Christmas present and sadness in realizing that their is one less present to buy. There is enthusiasm in the carols and tears because of the voice that isn't singing. There is gladness at the holiday dinner and heartbreak at the chair that's now empty. There is joy in the season in the season and the sadness because someone is missing. There might be guilt because you feel happy without your loved one. All of those feelings are valid. You are allowed to be sad during the holidays, your allowed to be happy even though someone is missing from the celebrations. Allow yourself to laugh, allow yourself to cry

It can be hard when it seems like everyone around you is happy. But know that you are not alone, and that you don't have to suppress your emotions just because it's the holidays.

[lil228]

Red White and Royal Blue Notes Day 5

WARNING- Spoilers for the movie and the book up to chapter 11

kay the two of them quoting historical love letters to each other is absolutely adorable! If someone did that for me I think I’d cry of happiness.

Henry telling Alex part of his life story in the form of a fairytale is really interesting. It allows Henry to have a sort of distance from the tragedy of his father’s death and the aftermath. The last paragraph is particularly good, and a really creative way for Henry to express his love for Alex

Alright the two are in the same country again, and normally that means a spicy scene, but I don’t actually think there will be one this time. 

Oh God! I did NOT need to know that information about LBJ

Okay so with the President, Zahra and now Oscar the total of people who know about Alex and Henry is 10- we are now in the doubled digits, and based on the fact that at least two of those people put together on their own, I’m honestly shocked that more people don’t know. Alex is definitely not a subtle as he things he is.

  “I-I don’t know I thought you might need to have, like a Catholic moment about this or something?” Why is this similar to what I though when I came out to my parents. They were way more chill about it than I thought. They were just kinda like okay and moved on. 

“Have a little more faith in your old man that that eh A little appreciation for the patron saint of gender-neutral bathrooms in California? Little Sh*t.” (255) That was really funny, and also almost word for word in the movie!

I like that Alex tells his dad that his mom made a PowerPoint about the situation and his dad’s like- yea that sounds like your mom.

“Sometimes you just have to jump and hope it’s not a cliff.” (256). If I recall correctly this was in the movie to, I really like this quote. 

   Alright so the sex was more implied that an actual scene, so I was right there was no spicy scene. If Henry gets back to England before an spicy scene I’m going to give myself a point. 

I thinks it’s funny that out of, petulant, short and not pleasant before until after 10 am, Alex takes the most umbridge with being called short.

Dose making out in the kitchen count as a spicy scene? Okay new rule- it doesn't count as spicy scene unless 1. It’s an actual scene so for example if two people wake up next to each other the next morning in their birthday suits that doesn't count. 2. one or more people become pantsless for purposes of adult activities, it can fade to black before the act it’s self but not before one or more of the parties are sans pants, or their is some other strong indicator that the act is going to happen. 

Okay well now I’m having another dos it count moment, per the rules someone has to be sans pants for the purpose of adult activities and seems like Henry is pantless but he did to jump into the lake? Like I’m really confused? I mean I think it was getting there but they didn’t? I think If I’m confused as to wether or not the criteria it doesn't. Like it seems like the scene was headed in that direction but just never got there. So I’m going to go with no, no, it wasn’t   

I have another prediction point.I am now at 6. 

I knew that Henry was going to start ignoring Alex bc I’ve watched the movie but it’s still making me sad

Alex finding that note- ugh my heart.

You’re at work, don’t cry, don’t cry don cry!

Okay so Zahra has to at least ship it a little bit, because she only nearly refuses to secure a car for Alex in England.

 Did Alex leave a note telling anyone where he went? Well I guess Zahra knows were he is

“My birthright is a country, not happiness.”  That made me really sad, poor Henry, I just want to give him a hug and tell him everything will be okay. 

Ugh Henry is crying, I can’t take it!

Ok geez that spicy scene came out of nowhere! 

I love that Henry references Darcy. I think a lot of men are afraid to reference Pride and Prejudice or even read it because they think it’s a girly romance novel, but Henry doesn't care. I think it just goes to show how much Henry can be himself around Alex, and of course he’s read Pride And Prejudice because Jane Austen.

Henry is absolutely correct. Who in their right mind eats plain toast? At least put some butter on it! Like I’m sorry but eating plain toast unless you have a stomach bug is an affront to, bread, breakfast, and humanity.    

“If there’s any legacy for me on this bloody earth, I want it to be true.” (280)

I love that June has texted Alex 46 times, and Nora’s just chill about the thing. Like everyone else is freaking the f*ck out and Nora’s like eh whatever, have you seen my shoes?

Also “I’m going to punch you in the face when you get back, I can’t believe you didn’t tell me.” and “I swear to God if you do something stupid and get yourself caught, I’m gonna kill you myself.” (281) while also wanting to know how it went is just peak big sister energy. 

“I know it’ll be messy. But if we can get ahead of the narrative, wait for the right time and do it on our own terms I think it should be okay?” (283) Uhg, knowing what’s coming hurts.

I would love for someone to take me to a museum when there was no one else there, except for the curators so I could ask them loads of questions.  I could look at all the things (art or history, or both) for as long as I wanted, I could read all the information without any pressure or anyone in the way. It would be a dream for me.  

I too could spend hours in an archive.

[lil228]

Red White and Royal Blue Notes Day 4

Update- no one gave me any grief about the book! In fact one person even asked me if it was good because it was on the list for her book club! So that was fun!

Alex is going to be responsible for all of Zahra’s grey hairs

Zahra knows she’s not going to be able to stop these two from seeing each other. 

Zahra has no fear about cursing at, and threatening a whole prince of England. Damn.

I’m dying at the fact that Alex’s mother made a PowerPoint presentation about this (237)

I laughed way to hard at the slide title “Federal Funding, Travel Expenses, Booty Calls and you- I’m still giggling about it. 

Wait, wait! Do we think this PowerPoint has like a theme? Are the slides rainbow colors? Bi flag colors?  Red white and blue? A sage green? Are there transitions? Are there visual aids or is just like the default white background and black text with no visuals or transitions. I mean this woman clearly takes PowerPoints seriously but she only had like an hour to do it right? Maybe she just used one of the like default designs. Like the ones that open when click design on Power Point? Surely there was at least like one picture per slide.  I know that this is totally not the point of this scene, but that I what I thought about.

That bike messenger who delivered the planned parenthood pamphlets must have had a really weird day at work. Like can you imagine just doing you job and then you get told to go to planed parenthood pick up what I assume are a bunch of sex-ed pamphlets and take them to the White House

Do you think that they made the bike messenger sign an NDA?

I love that both Zahra and Alex’s mom have no problem with Alex being Bi, their just worried about the fact that is flame is Prince Henry. And to be fair that dose make things a little messy.

I did know about Hamilton and Laurens, and there were likely more letters between the two that did not survive.,

Also if someone sent me an email recommending me a book and including the words “see attached bibliography” I think I would melt. 

Also these two are back at it again with the excellent to and from lines of their emails.

I like that both Alex and Henry are named for queer political figures from their countries ( Alexander Hamilton for Alex and Edward II and King James in Henry’s full name)

[lil228]

Red White and Royal Blue Notes Day 3 Part 2

WARNING spoilers for Red White and Royal Blue, both the movie and the book up to chapter nine

Also I made up a new game while reading this section the very basic explanation is that if I write down a prediction and it comes true I get a point there are more rules that I have for myself, and I'll proably post them later, because I plan to play this game with future books.

 Fun fact I googled it an Women at her Toilette is real (and safe for work) painting. 

I have a feeling I’m in for yet another spicy scene real soon

Okay, I know it’s like pretentious or whatever, but I think it’s cool that Henry likes classical music    

Oh, would you look at that I was right another spicy scene that’s number 7 for those of you counting along at home. 

Okay so did no one notice these two leave f’n WIMBLEDON? No one is wondering where they went? Dose Henry always just wander off. What to they think Henry and Alex are doing? Playing cards? Is it so inconceivable that these to are queer and in a sort of relationship that no one has even considered it? Come on!

Oh F*ck! Luna’s gone over to Richard’s campaign hasn’t he? 

I Fu*king called it! I knew R Luna was no good. How could he? That little traitorous b*tch!

Henry and Alex are in the same country so you know that that means! A spicy scene (at least I’m guessing there will be

I feel so bad for Alex, he really looked up to Luna, and wanted to be like him, and Luna wanted betrayed him and his family. 

“Someone else’s choices don’t change who you are” (Henry 229). I like that quote

Okay so it’s like the least spicy spicy scene but one of them gets naked so I’m going to count it that’s number 8! And another prediction point for me baby! Did I just make up prediction points yes, yes I did. And as of right now I have five (One for guessing that Amy knew what was going on, three for guessing the spicy scenes and one for predicting that Senator Luna was fishy/betrayed people) 

Okay so here my official rules for prediction points

It can’t have been something that I’ve know was going to happen because I’ve watched the movie (so for example I couldn’t say Alex and Henry are going to destroy an expensive wedding cake bc that happened in the movie)

If I didn’t write it down, only thought it it doesn't count

As long as I say I think it’s going to happen before it’s said in the text either explicitly or very heavily implied it’s fair game, even if there was foreshadowing I still get a point   

I can’t make super vague predictions  like Henry's going to talk about books or Alex is going to be sassy, because no duh.

 h my gosh, the fact that they acknowledge the symbolism of Henry hiding himself in a literal closet, is hilarious to me

[lil228]

Red White and Royal Blue Notes Day 3 Part 1

WARNING spoilers for Red White and Royal both the movie and up to chapter nine of the book

Also I got a lot of reading done and had a lot of thoughts on day 3 so I'm splitting this up into two parts

Ah Zahra’s great

Okay so I’m reading this at work and no one told me it was homeschool days before I agreed to cover for a sick coworker today. So it’s flipping homeschool days and here I am reading a book as gay as the fourth of July and that’s had at least three spicy scenes so far! I mean nothing supper explicit but still! If there’s a day were some’s going to be mean to me for what I’m reading it’s going to be today 

Okay make that four spicy scenes. Is this what non-asexual people are like? Or is this just what early 20’s non asexual men are like?

If someone offred my jewelry in the shape of my own face I would be incredibly weirded out 

Ah! Henry had English degree, if he was a woman I would have the worlds  biggest crush on this fictional person, as it is, I would desperately like to be friends with this fictional prince. 

  The fact that Henry is invested in the queer history of his so cute. I really like him as a character! 

So- I wanting to know more about queer history- googled what Alex researched and here’s what I’ve learned. The Laws of Illinois 1961- it was a law (the first in the US) in Lillison that repealed the states sodomy laws, thus make same sex sex acts legal. The White Night Riots were riots in response to the very lenient sentencing of Dan White after he murdered George Mosacone and Harvey Milk. White was only convicted of voluntary manslaughter (the lightest possible convictions) he was only made to serve five years of a seven year sentence. It is very likely that if it had not been two gay rights activist White would have been convicted of at least 2 murders and spent the rest of his life in prison. The gay community in San Francisco was understandably upset, and riots broke out. I’m really upset by this news because no way in hell would this man have gotten 7 years in prison today, ane he shouldn't have then just because of who his victims were. Paris is Burning is a documentary from 1990 that follows the drag/ ball scene in NY and the trans, gay, Latino and African american communities around it.  Well I have a new movie to watch now!

I learned a lot just now! That’s more queer history than I learned in High School, hell that’s more than I would have learned in college if not for choosing Oranges are Not The Only Fruit for my capstone project.

Okay maybe Zahra needs to chill just a little bit, but I still appreciate her wit. (162)

Alex never staring a phone calls with a greeting is very in character.

Wait? Hold on which two Kings of Enlgnad were gay? (164) To the google! 

After a quick google search it would appear that Henry is referring to Edward II and King James I. It’s not just those homeschoolers learning things today!

Wait, Bea did cocaine? Did I miss that earlier, or is it just being brought up for the first time right now? 

Aww, these two boys are such good younger brothers

Okay its official Amy’s the best! (167)

Oh, okay this is the first time it’s been brought up- it’s a rumor to the public, but Henry knows that it’s true.

Wow Henry’s  dads death was really hard on the family. I think they could all really have used some therapy.

I feel so bad for Henry’s mother, she could really use some therapy, grief is kind of the worst. 

“It’s good to have times when it’s not all about me, as tedious and exhausting as it may be.” (169). It’s almost like Alex know he’s the main character of the book 

Wow one of the ducks at work is yelling and I’m not sure why, I better go make sure sure no ones getting picked on

Nope, just female wood duck yelling, for some reason, seemingly to the male wood duck, their both fine. Their just having a marital dispute 

Lol just heard a kid yell “Look there’s a turtle kissing a turtles butt!” 

I’ve just been told that those two fight all the time. You would not believe how much duck related drama happens in this place

“Gran sat me down… and made it abundantly clear I was not to let anyone know about any deviant desires I might be beginning to harbor that might reflect poorly upon the crown” (170) I’m at working trying so hard not to cry right now!

The love story between Henry’s mother and father is so cute.

 Holy sh*t how did June know? Who told her?

No really everyone knew Alex was Bi before Alex.

“Stop trying to Jane Austen my life!” Lol

As of page 182 there a seven people who know- June, Cash, Amy, Shann, Nora, Bea, and Pez. 

I think what Alex just heard between Luna and Oscar makes me even more suspicious of Luna

Also what did Richards do to Luna also, also what’s this stuff about the kids? Dose Richards have secret love affair babies? Or.. oh, oh, god I hope not (188)

  Oh my god, they got Henry to do karaoke, 

Oh and Bea’s the best!

Okay were are now at five spicy scenes in this book, all of which I have read at work. At least pretty much no one’s around to see how awkward and mildly embarrassed I am while reading them

Wait, Nora has lipstick on the back of her neck… who was it? I know Alex may not want to know but I do!

So the crew is Alex, Herny, Bea, Nora, June and Pez. 

Aww Alex has friends (200)

Well now I have to look up gentleman of the bedchamber 

Okay so if was basically a group of men that would help the king dress, serving him while he ate and were also there for companionship

205- Holy literary references batman! 

There is something so genuine and vulnerable  about Henry telling Alex his favorite British author especially because she is seen even today as writing “girly” books or books for women.

Be right back, going to goggle Daniel Defoe

He wrote a ton of books, but is most well known for Robsinson Cursoe 

I think I shall also be referring to all of my secrest as “fruity truths” 

I think I’m also going to steal “Utah ugly” and “Christian Ugly”     

Okay so if I’ve got this correct the 3 geniuses in the Alex and three geniuses group chat are Nora, June and Henry. 

The royal box comment on 213 made me laugh out loud

I love that now that Alex knows he’s bi he sees David Beckam and is like how tf did I ever convince myself I was straight.

I kind of relate to Alex, after I realized I was lesbain I looked back on so many things and think how tf did I not know sooner?

Okay how on earth have these two not been found out yet. They slept in the same hotel room in Paris! Henry invited Alex to a polo match! Henry invented him to WIMBLEDON for God’s sake? Surely someone must think something is up right? Like come one! I mean June put two and two together! And Amy probably knew before they told her too! Is everyone around them just oblivious? Do they genuinely think these two are good friend

 I have a feeling there’s about to be a spicy scene

Annnd there it is ladies, gentleman, and distinguished non-binaries- spicy sense number 6

“Love doing things out of spite.” (217) made me laugh out loud, because honestly who hasn’t done anything out of spite before? 

[lil228]

Red White and Royal Blue Notes Day 2

WARNING: Spoilers for both the movie and up to chapter 7

if Henry was a woman I would be so very attracted to him

I don’t think this the intent- but maybe it is- back int the day female authors would use literary references to prove that they are well read so they would be taken seriously,  and this book has referred to things as Shakespearean, there is a reference to Byron and discussion of the themes of Great Expectations. It may be that as this is the authors first novel and it is not about a “literary topic’ she is in some way trying to prove herself. 

Oh sweet Alex, you’re like me- probably should have realized you weren’t straight sooner

I like that we get to see Alex’s thought process when he’s questioning his sexuality

Wow the discussion on 112 is really nice to have. I know I was the same way, but if took me time to realize and figure out. It’s also nice that the added pressure on Alex is brought up, because even in the year 2019 (and still in 2023) there are some people that still hate queer people.  

It’s sad that Alex had to consider how his being LGBTQ+ would impact his mother’s and his future political career  

Nora has no time or desire for dates.(116) This leads me to believe that Nora might be aromantic hold up let me do a google search. According to Wikipedia at a book signing McQuistion said that Nora was aromantic, but I can’t find any information to back this up anywhere else so *shrug.*

I love how Nora is  nonchalant about the kiss between Henry and Alex she just like well yea he’s gay and you hot so yea. 

Either Nora’s gaydar is really good, or Alex is broken, or both. Listen I know Nora said she studied patterns to come to her conclusion but like… how, there’s no way I think that it has to- at least in some part- gaydar.

Lol that fact that Nora knew Alex liked Henry before Alex knew. (120)

Wait a minute! When Nora was talking about the NDA earlier the gay thing wasn’t a joke! She knew! (I guess it really depends on whether or not she knew at that time, but I totally think she did.)

    Nora totally ships it

“A diabolical scheme of seduction” (130) Oh my god!

I think Amy definitely knows what’s up and ships it too!

Oh yea Amy totally knows, she totally ships it. (136)

146- Zarah telling Alex are writing fanfic about him and Henry is funny for 2 reason #1 the general public has now knowledge of their non-public interaction as still ship it, so either the fans are really wild or Alex is way worse at hiding his feelings for Henry than her thinks he is. The second is that it’s sort of meta because on A03 alone there are 6,640 works for this book, and most of them are about the two of them, so both in the fictional world and in the real world people are writing fanfic about them

Wait hold up why is Henry competing in a charity polo match in the US? Dose anyone in the US play polo? Huh?

148- This is irrefutable evidence that Amy knows. It’s not evidence that she ships it, but she’s sure as hell not trying to stop them.

Okay why did I end having to read two of the spicy scenes at WORK! I mean sure it was more implied than anything but my god! Why were they so close together? 

152 “Don’t threaten me with a good time.” ALEX! (it was a pretty funny response though. 

Also “First son of you former colony” (152)  had me cackling

Henry calling America “Off brand England” is so damn funny! (152)

  Okay so many of their to and from lines in their emails are so funny!

What is that red mark? Is that me? I am bleeding? Oh sh- I’ll be back (158)

[lil228]

Red White and Royal Blue Notes Day 1

WARNING: Spoilers for both the Red White and Royal Blue movie and the book up to chapter 5

I think it’s funny that Alex’s love story is referred to as Shakespearean considering what’s to come. 

“It’s funny how you think everything is about you” (page 14). Lol- especially bc he’s the literal main character of this story.  

“Systematically drunk” (15) LOL

“Mutual antagonists” (17) 

“Sorry I’m not obsessed with you like everyone else” (18). Oh buddy that’ll change soon. (Alex about Henry)

OMG that whole conversation is so good!

Cakegate is really funny for some reason.

“As the president all I want is to have the CIA fake your death, and ride the dead kid sympathy into a second term.” (23) I see where Alex gets it from. 

The foreshadowing! Like Zarah telling Alex to gush about Henry like he’s his prom date.  

“I’ll do it but I won’t have any fun” (Alex) “God, I hope not.” (Zarah 27) HAH! Alex is going to have fun, maybe too much fun.

Look I know Alex thinks it’s nerdy but if someone told me Great Expectations was their favorite book I would like them even more. 

Ugh! the foreshadowing in this is just so good like when Nora speculate on why Alex has to sign an NDA and one of the reason she give is that he’s (the prince) is Gay. Lol (page 39)

Lol Alex being unable to decide if he Texan or Mexican side is more upset about English Breakfast (page 41)

Foreshadowing- Alex says Henry is “annoyingly attractive (43)

  I don’t know if being an English major broke me or if I’m a mega nerd, but I want to write a literary analysis paper on this so badly.  

Alex’s reasoning for wanting to get into politics is so wholesome (43)

Henry’s interaction with the caner patient is so cute (45)!

“You’re not the prince of me” (47). It’s just so good. Has this author written anything else? Please tell me they have. OMG they have! I will be needing all of their books now thank you very much.

“Are you trying to psycho analyzed me?” (49) lol, I feel like I say a variation of the this all the time when I’m with my psych major friend.

“I’m sensing an ellipsis (Henry) “It’s just…” (Alex) 51. This book sort of dose that thing that White Teeth did where it’s aware that it’s a novel, but it doesn't do it the same way. It’s more subtle and uses more irony.

 Okay Alex and Henry bonding over Star Wars is sweet and kind of nerdy. I like it. 

“But isn’t there something to be valued in a happy ending as well?” (52)

Alex taking a class called The Press and The Presidency is absolutely hilarious to me. 

That one commenter ships it (55)

“B*tch McConnell- I’m dying homygod 

Like Senator Luna, I to can be easily bribed with candy

More foreshadowing on 57. Also I don’t know why but I’m not getting good vibes from Senator Luna

Old money Sith powers also has me dying

The president of united states comparing her children to possums is so funny. 

Also her reminding her children to not discuss their murder plots in front of her

Ugh this book is so good! 

“Leeme romance the hell out of some focus groups” (66) This book is gold 

  The text exchange on 68-9 is amazing

I can only hope to write something this amazing one day.

Nora asking Alex if he’s reading fanfiction about himself made me laugh out loud- at work, granted it’s deader than Marley in this place today

The whole bit with the Turkey is just glorious! Ya did it to yourself Alex.

The way Henry talks to his dog is so cute, and so it the fact that he watches The Great British Bake Off 

Amy’s great!

Page 90- Yes Alex go off!

I love Bea, she’s great, peak sister energy

June is also peak sister energy. 

95- more foreshadowing when June talks about it being like a rom com

“You know I love chaos” (Nora)- 96

I think its really sweet that Henry wants to be a writer 

107- the first kiss! (Squeals)

[lil228]

I'm doing a thing

So as I have been reading Red White and Royal Blue I have been taking notes and I thought I would go ahead and share them with you all, however I am on page 234 and I already have six and a half single spaced pages, so I've deiced to post my notes for each day individually, and they're still going to be pretty long so buckle up ladies, gents and distinguished non-binaries . Also just for some context I saw the movie before reading the book. This is not something I normally do, but I had heard really good things about the movie and really wanted to watch it. Once I watched the movie I knew I had to get my hands on the book.

[lil228]

I decided that today was the day! I was going to make myself a tumbler. Only to open tumbler to discover that I already have an account ? When did I do this? I must have hit log in with google one day, and forgotten about it anyways I'm here now I guess. I'm also really new at this and have no idea what I'm doing. No time like the present to learn I guess.