Red, White & Royal Blue

Table of Contents

1. BOOK DETAILS

2. SYNOPSIS

3. SUMMARY

4. ANALYSIS 

5. REVIEW

6. ABOUT THE AUTHOR

7. BOOK X MOVIE

1. BOOK DETAILS

Full Title:

Red, White & Royal Blue

Genre:

Romance, Comedy, LGBTQ+ Fiction

Category:

Adult Fiction

Author:

Casey McQuiston

Point of View:

Third-person limited (Alex Claremont-Diaz's perspective)

Setting:

United States, United Kingdom (White House, Buckingham Palace, various international locations)

Characters:

• Alex Claremont-Diaz – The charismatic First Son of the United States.

• Prince Henry – The reserved and duty-bound Prince of Wales.

• President Ellen Claremont – Alex’s mother and the first female U.S. president.

• June Claremont-Diaz – Alex’s supportive older sister.

• Nora Holleran – Alex’s best friend and the Vice President’s granddaughter.

• Bea & Philip – Henry’s sister and brother.

2. SYNOPSIS

Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, has a long-standing rivalry with Prince Henry of Wales. When an altercation at a royal wedding leads to a public relations disaster, the two are forced into a staged friendship to avoid a diplomatic crisis. As they spend more time together, Alex begins to realize that his feelings for Henry are far from hostile—they are undeniably romantic.

What starts as a fake friendship soon turns into a secret relationship that neither of them is prepared for. As Alex struggles with his sexual identity and Henry battles the pressures of royal duty, they must navigate their love in the face of public scrutiny, political expectations, and personal fears. Their romance blossoms through stolen moments, secret emails, and late-night calls, making it clear that their connection is real.

With Alex’s mother running for re-election and the British monarchy bound by tradition, their love story becomes a high-stakes affair. They must decide if their feelings are worth the risk and whether they can redefine what love means in the world of politics and royalty.

3. Summary

Chapter 1: The Cake Incident

Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, has a long-standing rivalry with Prince Henry of Wales. During a royal wedding, their tension escalates, leading to an accident where they knock over a $75,000 wedding cake. To avoid a diplomatic disaster, both are forced to stage a fake friendship for the media.

Chapter 2: The Publicity Stunt

Alex and Henry engage in public appearances and fake-friendly social media exchanges. Despite their past animosity, Alex starts noticing that Henry isn’t as cold as he once thought. They begin exchanging texts and emails, slowly developing a genuine connection.

Chapter 3: Unexpected Chemistry

Alex, still believing he is straight, starts feeling confused by his attraction to Henry. During a New Year’s Eve party, Henry kisses Alex, shocking him. Alex begins questioning his feelings and his sexuality.

Chapter 4: The Confession

Alex processes the kiss and realizes he likes Henry. He confronts Henry about it, and they share another kiss, but Henry pulls away, fearing the consequences of being openly gay in the royal family.

Chapter 5: Secret Relationship Begins

Despite Henry’s hesitations, he and Alex start a secret long-distance romance, communicating through emails and stolen moments together. Alex keeps his feelings hidden from his mother, the U.S. President, and his friends.

Chapter 6: Falling in Love

Their relationship deepens as they exchange intimate emails filled with historical love letters and personal confessions. Alex realizes he is falling in love with Henry, but Henry remains cautious due to his royal obligations.

Chapter 7: The Texas Trip

Alex invites Henry to his family’s lake house in Texas, where they finally spend uninterrupted time together. Their bond strengthens as Henry opens up about his struggles with royal expectations.

Chapter 8: Political Pressures

Alex’s mother, President Ellen Claremont, starts suspecting something is going on. Meanwhile, Alex becomes more involved in her reelection campaign, juggling political duties and his secret love life.

Chapter 9: The Royal Dilemma

Henry is torn between his love for Alex and his duty to the Crown. His family pressures him to conform, while Alex tries to reassure him that they can find a way to be together.

Chapter 10: The Leaked Emails

Their secret relationship is exposed when private emails between Alex and Henry are leaked to the press. The world erupts in scandal, and both face intense scrutiny. Henry’s family demands he deny the relationship, while Alex’s mother advises him on damage control.

Chapter 11: The Decision

Henry is pushed to the breaking point by royal expectations. Alex publicly comes out and refuses to deny his love for Henry. Inspired by Alex’s courage, Henry also stands his ground.

Chapter 12: Love Wins

Alex’s mother delivers a powerful speech in support of her son, and the public opinion shifts in their favor. Henry’s family eventually reluctantly accepts their relationship, and the couple emerges stronger.

Epilogue: A Future Together

Alex and Henry continue their relationship openly. Ellen Claremont wins reelection, and the novel ends on a hopeful note as the two embrace their future together, proving that love can triumph over politics and tradition.

4. Analysis

Analysis of Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

Characters

Alex Claremont-Diaz

Alex is the novel’s protagonist, the ambitious and charismatic First Son of the United States. He is deeply invested in politics, hoping to follow in his mother’s footsteps as President one day. Over the course of the novel, Alex comes to terms with his bisexuality and realizes his love for Henry, challenging both his personal and political identity.

Prince Henry of Wales

Henry is the reserved, duty-bound Prince of Wales who struggles with the pressures of royal expectations. Unlike Alex, he has been raised to suppress his emotions and conform to tradition. Through his relationship with Alex, Henry learns to embrace his true self and fight for his happiness.

President Ellen Claremont

Alex’s mother and the first female President of the United States, Ellen Claremont is a strong, pragmatic leader who balances her political ambitions with her role as a mother. Her relationship with Alex is central to his journey, and her eventual acceptance of his relationship with Henry is a key moment in the novel.

Nora Holleran

Alex’s best friend and the White House Deputy Chief of Staff’s granddaughter, Nora is witty, intelligent, and deeply supportive of Alex. She plays a key role in helping him navigate his feelings for Henry.

June Claremont-Diaz

Alex’s older sister, June is a journalist and a grounding presence in his life. She often acts as his confidante and helps him process his emotions.

Bea (Princess Beatrice)

Henry’s sister, Bea has a rebellious streak and is one of his closest allies. She supports him in his struggle against royal expectations and encourages him to live authentically.

Pez (Percy Okonjo)

Henry’s best friend, Pez is a wealthy philanthropist with a larger-than-life personality. He provides comic relief and unwavering support for Henry.

Zahra Bankston

Ellen Claremont’s deputy chief of staff, Zahra is fiercely protective of Alex and plays an important role in managing the political fallout of his relationship with Henry.

Setting

The White House

As Alex’s home and the center of U.S. politics, the White House represents both opportunity and constraint. It symbolizes Alex’s ambitions but also the immense pressure of public life.

Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace

These royal residences reflect Henry’s rigid, traditional world. They serve as a backdrop for his internal conflict between duty and personal freedom.

The Private Getaway (Texas Lake House)

This secluded setting allows Alex and Henry to be themselves away from the public eye. Their time here marks a turning point in their relationship, where they express their true feelings without external pressures.

Various International Locations

The novel’s political and romantic plotlines take Alex and Henry to various locations worldwide, emphasizing the global stakes of their relationship.

Themes

Love vs. Duty

Alex and Henry struggle with balancing their personal desires against their public responsibilities. The novel challenges the idea that duty must come at the cost of personal happiness.

Identity and Self-Acceptance

Alex’s journey of self-discovery—realizing he is bisexual and navigating his feelings for Henry—is a central theme. Henry’s struggle with being openly gay within the constraints of royalty also highlights the importance of embracing one’s true self.

Politics and Power

The novel explores the intersection of personal relationships and political influence, especially through Alex’s role in his mother’s re-election campaign. It examines how media, public perception, and legacy shape personal and professional decisions.

Breaking Traditions and Redefining History

Both Alex and Henry are part of institutions steeped in tradition (the U.S. presidency and the British monarchy). Their love story challenges outdated norms and suggests that institutions must evolve with modern values.

The Power of Representation

The novel highlights the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in public life, showing how visibility can inspire change and empower others.

Symbols

The Key Necklace

Henry gives Alex a key to symbolize trust and the opening of emotional doors. It represents their deepening relationship and Henry’s willingness to let Alex into his guarded world.

Emails and Letters

Their romantic emails and love letters serve as a modernized version of classic literary romance. These written exchanges show their emotional vulnerability and intellectual connection.

The Star-Spangled Banner vs. "God Save the Queen"

The contrast between American and British traditions serves as a metaphor for Alex and Henry’s personal struggles with identity and national expectations.

Narrative Structure and Style

Red, White & Royal Blue is written in the third-person limited perspective, primarily following Alex’s point of view. The novel’s tone is witty, fast-paced, and deeply emotional, blending humor with heartfelt moments.

The structure follows a classic romantic arc, beginning with tension and rivalry, followed by a gradual realization of feelings, obstacles, and ultimately a triumphant conclusion. The dialogue is sharp and modern, filled with pop culture references, making it feel fresh and relatable.

The use of emails, texts, and letters adds depth to the storytelling, allowing readers to see a more intimate and poetic side of Alex and Henry’s relationship.

Audience and Reception

Red, White & Royal Blue has been widely praised for its engaging characters, humor, and LGBTQ+ representation. It has a dedicated fanbase and has been credited with bringing queer romance into mainstream contemporary fiction.

Critics have noted that while the novel is idealistic, its hopeful and uplifting message resonates with readers. The book was adapted into a 2023 film, further cementing its cultural impact.

5. Review

REVIEW: Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

My Opinion

Red, White & Royal Blue is a delightful, heartfelt, and refreshing queer romance. Casey McQuiston masterfully blends political drama with a swoon-worthy love story between Alex, the First Son of the United States, and Henry, the Prince of Wales. The book is funny, emotional, and unapologetically romantic, making it a must-read for contemporary romance fans.

Why It Is Worth Reading

This novel offers a unique take on romance by combining political intrigue with a fairy-tale-like love story. The diverse representation, witty dialogue, and deep emotional moments make it stand out. The chemistry between Alex and Henry is electric, and their journey from rivals to lovers is both engaging and touching.

For Whom It Is Recommended

If you love queer romance, enemies-to-lovers tropes, and stories with political and royal elements, this book is perfect for you. Fans of The Hating Game or Boyfriend Material will likely enjoy the humor and charm of this novel.

Criticisms

While the book is fun and heartfelt, some of the political aspects feel idealistic and overly simplified. The pacing in the second half slows down slightly, and the excessive text messages and emails between the protagonists might not appeal to everyone. However, these minor flaws don’t take away from the book’s overall magic.

6. About the Author

Biography

Casey McQuiston is a bestselling American author known for their witty, heartfelt, and LGBTQ+ inclusive romance novels. Born and raised in Louisiana, McQuiston grew up with a passion for storytelling, which led them to study journalism. However, their love for fiction and romance eventually pushed them toward a career in novel writing.

McQuiston gained widespread recognition with their debut novel, Red, White & Royal Blue, published in 2019. The book became an instant success, topping bestseller lists and earning a devoted readership. Its success also led to a 2023 film adaptation, further solidifying McQuiston’s place in the contemporary romance genre.

Since then, McQuiston has continued to write novels that center around love, identity, and self-discovery, blending humor and deep emotional resonance in each of their works.

What Inspired the Author to Write the Book

McQuiston has shared that Red, White & Royal Blue was inspired by their fascination with politics, history, and romantic comedy tropes. The novel was born out of a desire to imagine a more hopeful and inclusive political landscape, particularly in the U.S.

During the 2016 U.S. presidential election, McQuiston was drawn to the idea of exploring an alternate political reality—one where a charismatic, biracial First Son of the United States falls in love with a British prince. They wanted to create a love story that felt modern, relevant, and deeply personal.

Additionally, McQuiston’s love for rom-coms, particularly those with royal themes like The Princess Diaries and Notting Hill, heavily influenced the book’s tone and structure. The combination of humor, heart, and high stakes made Red, White & Royal Blue a fresh and engaging take on the classic romance genre.

Influences from the Author's Life in the Book

McQuiston’s personal experiences and interests are deeply embedded in Red, White & Royal Blue. As a queer writer, they wanted to craft a story where LGBTQ+ characters experience a grand, swoon-worthy romance without the tragedy often found in queer narratives. The book reflects their hope for more representation in mainstream romance fiction.

Their background in journalism also played a role in shaping the novel’s political and media aspects. The detailed political setting, from White House operations to international diplomacy, showcases McQuiston’s research and interest in political history.

Moreover, the novel’s themes of identity, belonging, and self-acceptance mirror McQuiston’s own journey of understanding their queer identity. Through the protagonist, Alex Claremont-Diaz, they explore the complexities of coming to terms with one’s sexuality in the public eye.

With its mix of humor, romance, and political optimism, Red, White & Royal Blue is a reflection of McQuiston’s love for storytelling and their vision of a world where love can thrive despite obstacles.

Book Club Questions for Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

• What were your initial thoughts on Alex and Henry’s relationship? Did their dynamic feel believable?

• The book blends romance with political and royal drama. How well do you think these elements worked together?

• How did Alex’s journey of self-discovery and coming to terms with his bisexuality resonate with you?

• Henry struggles with the expectations placed on him as a prince. How does this affect his relationship with Alex?

• What role does family play in the story? How do Alex’s and Henry’s families influence their choices?

• The novel includes a lot of humor and witty banter. What was your favorite funny moment?

• The emails and letters between Alex and Henry add depth to their relationship. Which one stood out to you the most?

• How do Alex and Henry challenge each other to grow as individuals?

• The novel explores themes of love, identity, and public vs. private life. Which theme resonated with you the most?

• How did the political aspects of the book, such as Alex’s mother’s presidency and the election, impact the story?

• If Alex and Henry’s relationship had been made public in a different way, how do you think the outcome would have changed?

• The book has been adapted into a movie. If you’ve seen it, how does it compare to the novel?

• What did you think of the ending? Did it provide a satisfying resolution for Alex and Henry?

• How does Red, White & Royal Blue compare to other LGBTQ+ romance novels you’ve read?

• Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not?

7. BOOK X MOVIE

📖 The Book:

• Red, White & Royal Blue is a contemporary LGBTQ+ romance novel that follows Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry of Wales.

• Initially, they are portrayed as rivals, but after a public mishap, they are forced to pretend to be friends, which soon develops into a secret romance.

• The story is filled with humor, heartfelt moments, and political intrigue, highlighting themes of love, identity, and the pressures of being in the public eye.

• The novel features witty banter, deep emotional moments, and a slow-burn romance that makes the connection between Alex and Henry feel genuine.

• It explores political challenges, personal growth, and the significance of being true to oneself despite societal expectations.

🎬 Movie Adaptation (2023):

• Amazon Prime adapted the novel into a film directed by Matthew López, starring Taylor Zakhar Perez as Alex and Nicholas Galitzine as Prince Henry.

• The movie keeps the core love story intact, capturing the romance and chemistry between the main characters.

• Some plot points are streamlined, and certain characters (such as June, Alex’s sister, and Rafael Luna, a key political figure in the book) are omitted.

• The adaptation focuses more on the romance while minimizing the political aspects that played a significant role in the novel.

• The film delivers emotional and visually appealing scenes but condenses some of the book’s depth due to time constraints.