Carla Altomare

Job: Intermittent Library Technician I, Imperial Beach Branch, San Diego County Library

She recommends: “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey Mcquiston (New York:

St. Martin's Griffin, 2019; 421 pages)

Why? “Red, White & Royal Blue” was by far my favorite read of 2019. A debut “new adult fiction” novel, the plot is centered around characters in their early 20s. This novel is a fun and enjoyable romantic romp yet still has a layered and complex plot, full of heart-wrenching ups and downs. It follows an unlikely pair as they realize that their misplaced disdain for each other is transforming into friendship and love. Alex Clairmont-diaz is the son of the current fictional president of the United States. He is America's heartthrob and hopes to eventually enter the world of politics himself. His international rival, Prince Henry of England, is also a well-known public figure and eligible bachelor. After an international incident forces the two to spend more time together, they realize that they're falling in love. Alex and Henry must not only figure out their feelings for each other, but also face challenges posed by friends, family, and their respective nations. “Red, White & Royal Blue” is beautifully written and checks every box for readers who enjoy witty humor, enemies-to-lovers romance, and well-developed characters.