Every time I read a Julian Winters book, I just know I'm going to have fun. This one is no exception!

Prince of the Palisades was one of my most anticipated last year! (of course, I didn't have time to read it, as usual), but I finally did, yes!

This was good. It was light, fun, entertaining. It was also messy. Partly because it's royal drama lol, and partly because of the usual YA romcom antics lol. I enjoyed the messy parts though, don't get me wrong!

The romance is cute. I do feel like it needed more? Like yes, they were good together, but I wanted more of the romance and the pining and the falling in love. (or maybe I just like angst too much and I read too many slow burn fanfics lol not really the book's fault).

I also feel like the plot could have been more compelling? Like I know this is romcom and we're not gonna have a high-stakes-end-of-the-world plot, of course. But Jadon's journey seemed a bit lacking for me? I don't know, but I guess I expected him to experience various significant obstacles and learning curves before fully developing as a person (and as a character). And I needed more of that.

I do appreciate that the story touched on a few topics like racism, the challenges of being queer and being Black, being silent vs. speaking up for others, the stark difference between media and reality, and more. 

(((OH and if I did tear up at one point in the story, it would be when Jadon finally talked to his father.)))

Overall, I have to say, while this isn't my favorite from Julian Winters, I still enjoyed reading it. Also, my favorite character would have to be Mrs. Hayes lol. 3.5 stars!