Random House Books for Young Readers, 2019. 448 pages. Sci-Fi
After the Revolutionary War, General George Washington was offered the throne. And everyone knows he said yes. This alternate history explores the America's reigning House of Washington and the drama that surrounds Princess Beatrice as she prepares to become the first queen regnant of the United States. Living in her sister's shadow, Princess Samantha generally is unbothered, but that changes when she shows interest in a boy who is strictly off-limits to her. And let's not forget Samantha's twin Prince Jefferson, who is adored as the quintessential royal heartthrob and being pursued by two very different love interests.
This work seems like a standard YA contemporary romance, where the enjoyment comes from untangling the drama. The premise of an American royal family is quite a fun sandbox to play in, but I wish McGee had colored a little more outside the lines. Beyond the fact that this takes place in the United States, there isn't much to tie this work and its characters to the nation.