top of page

The Backup Princess | ARC Review

A Sweet Royal Enemies to Lovers RomCom (Royally Kissed Book 1) by Kate O'Keeffe. Pub Date: April, 4th 2024

 

the backup princess

Author: Kate O'Keeffe


Series: Royally Kissed Book 1


Release Date: April, 4th 2024


Genre: Romance


My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


Spice Level: 0






Official Description:


When a Texas gal punches a prince instead of curtsying, you know this isn't your grandmother's fairy tale. Taking the bull by the horns is child's play compared to ruling Malveaux. Yet here I am, a Texas girl turned princess, swapping tacos for a tiara.

Then I meet Europe’s most eligible bachelor, the irritatingly handsome Prince Alexander, and accidentally deck him instead of curtsying. Oops. I’d feel bad if he wasn’t such a self-satisfied jerk. Now, I'm racing against a royal clock that ticks with the urgency of a preening peacock, trying not to let down my newfound country or my own wild heart. Alexander? He's a walking contradiction, with a smirk that heats my blood and eyes that tell tales of a depth I didn't expect. Decisions aren't exactly my rodeo, but this time, my choice could cost me my new crown—or lead to a love story that rewrites my happily ever after. Will this Texas girl rise to the royal challenge, or is this one fairytale destined to end with the slipper never found?


The Princess Diaries meets The Hating Game in this in this dizzyingly romantic modern royal romcom for grown-ups, where an American girl's unexpected ascent to royalty collides with a fiery romance with a hot neighboring prince. The Backup Princess is a closed-door romance with all the sizzle but without the spice, and a guaranteed happily ever after. It’s Book 1 in the brand new series, Royally Kissed.


 

#1: First thoughts The Backup Princess review


I want to give a big shoutout to NetGalley for granting me an ARC of "The Backup Princess" by Kate O'Keefe. Let me just say, this book was exactly what I needed for a cozy and romantic escape!


The story revolves around Maddie, a Texan girl unexpectedly thrust into the role of the next heir to the royal kingdom of Malveaux. As if the shock of finding herself now in this unexpected role wasn't enough, she is also tasked with playing "nice" with the notorious, Womaniser aka. Prince Alexander of Ledonia, the heir of the neighbouring kingdom and ally. 


The plot had me reminisce about The Princess Diaries and I'll admit that at first I wasn't entirely sure how I felt about these fictional royal kingdoms but by the end, I was completely charmed! Plus, the clever addition of Gossip Girl-esque articles at the beginning of some chapters added an extra layer of humour that had me giggling out loud more times than I can count.


#2: Characters & Romance


I really loved the banter between Maddie & Alexander. While I wouldn't call it exactly "enemies-to-lovers", there is a definite reluctance in their initial attraction. I also appreciated the fact that Alexander wasn't portrayed as the typical stoic male lead, but rather someone who doesn't shy away from showing or admitting his feelings and going after what he wants, all while teasing Maddie mercilessly along the way. Sure, a hint of spice wouldn't have gone amiss, but honestly, it wasn't necessary. The genuine chemistry between Maddie and Alexander was more than enough to keep me eagerly hooked. 


#3: Final Thoughts


"The Backup Princess" is the perfect pick-me-up read for anyone in need of a little escapism. It's cozy, it's romantic, and it's downright charming. Trust me, you won't regret adding this gem to your bookshelf.


So go ahead, grab a copy, and prepare to be swept off your feet!


If you liked this review of "The Backup Princess" or have any questions or comments, let me know !


 The Backup Princess kate okeefe

 

Disclaimer: I have added an affiliate link for your convenience so you can directly purchase the book if you are intrigued. This also means that I will receive small commission. This does not affect inclusion in my reviews or the overall rating of the book.


Comments

Rated 0 out of 5 stars.
No ratings yet

Add a rating

Upcoming Reviews

quicksilver

Quicksilver by Callie Hart

In Quicksilver, the first installment of Callie Hart's Fae & Alchemy series, twenty-four-year-old Saeris Fane, a skilled thief with mysterious powers, accidentally reopens a gateway to a realm of ice and snow, where she must navigate a deadly conflict and an unexpected bond with the enigmatic Fae warrior Kingfisher, whose dark secrets could cost her everything.

Screenshot 2024-02-11 at 17.51.43.png

Subscribe to get the newest

book reviews & recommendations

bottom of page