McGee, Katherine. Rivals (American Royals #3). Random House, 2022. ISBN ‎ 978-0593429709 400 pp. $19.99

*****

This next installment of the American Royals series, which imagines a United States where the founding fathers established a monarchy instead of a democracy, features Beatrice as reigning Queen, hosting a major diplomatic event and not making enough time for fiancé Teddy; Princess Samantha stepping up in a major way into her own royal role, in love with a Black Duke who would have to give up everything, and their brother Jefferson who is back with scheming Daphne. Meanwhile, he and Nina are growing to be close friends again.

Romance, drama, international politics modern day court intrigue, unlikely alliances and deep betrayals advance the plot. Least you think it’s all fluff, the series also addresses racism, misogyny, climate change, and media/fame. The writing is excellent, pacing perfect, and I devoured it in one sitting.

The cliffhanger ending promises a sequel that I personally can’t wait for; purchase where the series is popular.

I received an advance reader’s review copy of #Rivals from #NetGalley