A Wild Ride as a Celebrity Escort: Tales from the Red Carpet

Ever wonder what it’s really like behind the scenes at the Oscars or the Grammys? I'm talking about more than just the red carpet flashes and the acceptance speeches. Let me tell you about Chris Gaida, a guy who literally lived that dream – not as a star, but as someone who made sure the stars were shining bright all night long: a celebrity escort.

Picture growing up in Horsham, Pennsylvania, in the '70s and '80s. You’re glued to the TV, watching all those awards shows and dreaming of that glamorous world. Chris was that kid. Little did he know, he’d not only meet those celebrities but actually work with them at over 130 awards shows. Talk about a twist of fate, right?

His journey began in 1999 when he got asked to be a celebrity escort at VH1 Divas Live. Honestly, I’d be skeptical too! Chris was clueless about what it meant and was worried it might be something shady. Thankfully, he was assured it was legit. Turns out, a celebrity escort is like a super-powered assistant, taking care of an A-list celeb all night. Red carpet, after-party, you name it. Think publicist, bestie, and bodyguard all rolled into one. Apparently, those big award shows have so many stars that producers need extra help keeping track of everyone. That’s where the escorts come in, making sure everything runs smoothly.

This gig led to thirteen years of working these events. Imagine getting to hang out with your idols for hours, not just snapping a quick photo. Chris went from being star-struck and tongue-tied to casually chatting and sharing laughs with these celebs. Over time, he realized they’re just people too, with their own stories and jokes.

His friends and family were constantly asking him about his experiences, naturally. "What was so-and-so like?" they’d wonder. He figured, if they’re curious, others would be too. So, in 2001, he wrote “Arm Candy: A Celebrity Escort's Tales From the Red Carpet.” It became a bestseller on Amazon! It's not a tell-all spilling secrets, but a positive, fun look at what it’s really like to be in that world. He wanted to share those incredible years with everyone.

"Arm Candy" gives you a real peek behind the curtain of Hollywood glitz. Chris's writing is funny and engaging, making you feel like you’re right there with him. He really brings these celebrities down to earth, sharing funny stories and genuine moments. It’s about more than just glamour; it’s about personal growth and unexpected life turns. Honestly, if you’re even a little bit curious about how Hollywood works, you need to read this book.

What do you think? Have you ever wondered about the behind-the-scenes of award shows? Or met a celebrity? Share your stories in the comments below! And if you enjoyed hearing about Chris's journey, feel free to show some love by tossing a little something my way. Every bit helps keep the stories flowing. 😉

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Time Capsule 1969: Digging Deep into a Year of Massive Change and Groovy Vibes

Hey everyone, Adrian Duarte here! Let's take a wild ride back to 1969. This wasn't my era either, but I'm absolutely fascinated by it. There's just something about 1969—it feels like a cultural explosion, a year of incredible highs and some heartbreaking lows, all wrapped up in a truly transitional time. So, let's grab our virtual time machines and dive deep into everything that made 1969 unforgettable.

Cost of Living in '69
Okay, first off, can we talk about the cost of living? It's mind-blowing! The average yearly income was $9,433 and minimum wage was just $1.60 per hour. A new home? A "whopping" $27,900. An 18-inch color TV was $288, a Polaroid camera $23.68, Foster Grant sunglasses $1.68 and a postage stamp $0.06. Gas was $0.35 a gallon, a movie ticket $1.42 and a whole pound of Oreo cookies? Only $0.51! Just imagine what you could have bought with that income compared to now.

Popular Books of 1969
The literary scene was incredible. We had "Slaughterhouse-Five" by Kurt Vonnegut, "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou, "The Godfather" by Mario Puzo, "The Andromeda Strain" by Michael Crichton and "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin. What a lineup! Each of these books left a huge mark on literature and still resonates today.

Billboard Hits That Defined the Year
Oh, the music! The airwaves were filled with "Sugar, Sugar" by The Archies, "Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In" by The 5th Dimension, "I Can't Get Next to You" by The Temptations, "Honky Tonk Women" by The Rolling Stones, "Everyday People" and "Hot Fun in the Summertime" by Sly & The Family Stone, "Dizzy" by Tommy Roe and "I'll Never Fall in Love Again" by Tom Jones. This soundtrack is pure joy and speaks volumes about the era.

Top News That Shook the Nation
Richard M. Nixon was president, with Spiro T. Agnew as vice president. The U.S. population was about 202.7 million and the world population was around 3.6 billion. Tragedy struck when a rocket accidentally detonated on the USS Enterprise in Pearl Harbor, killing 27 and injuring over 300. Golda Meir became Israel's first female prime minister. The horrific Sharon Tate murders by Charles Manson's followers shocked the nation. But there was also triumph! "The Eagle has landed!" Apollo 11 made it to the moon and Neil Armstrong took his first steps, watched by 500 million worldwide. Finally, the Chappaquiddick incident with Ted Kennedy created a huge national scandal.

Pop Culture Moments That Changed Everything
The Beatles gave their last public performance on the roof of Apple Records and released "Abbey Road," a masterpiece. John Lennon and Yoko Ono got married. Woodstock brought half a million people together for a weekend of peace and music. Willie Mays hit his 600th career home run. And let's not forget the premieres of "Scooby-Doo," "The Brady Bunch," and "Sesame Street!" Pop culture was on fire!

Sports Highlights of 1969
The NY Mets won the World Series, the Kansas City Chiefs won the Pro Football title, the Boston Celtics took the NBA Championship and the Montreal Canadiens won the Stanley Cup. Rod Laver and Ann Haydon Jones won at Wimbledon, UCLA Bruins won the NCAA Basketball Championship and Texas Longhorns won the NCAA Football Championship. Steve Owens won the Heisman Trophy, George Archer won the PGA Masters, Majestic Prince won the Kentucky Derby and Mario Andretti won the Indy 500.

Top TV Shows
"Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In," "The Red Skelton Hour," "Gunsmoke," "Marcus Welby, M.D.," "Here's Lucy," "Bonanza," "Mayberry R.F.D.," "Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color," "Family Affair," and "The Doris Day Show" dominated TV screens. These shows offered a mix of comedy, drama and family entertainment that defined the era.

Oscar Winners of 1969
"Midnight Cowboy" won Best Picture. John Wayne won Best Actor for "True Grit," Maggie Smith won Best Actress for "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie," Gig Young won Best Supporting Actor for "They Shoot Horses, Don't They?," and Goldie Hawn won Best Supporting Actress for "Cactus Flower." A star-studded year!

Popular Toys and Cars
Kids loved G.I. Joe, telescopes, Knit-O-Matic, Betsy Wetsy doll, Corgi die-cast vehicles, Wham-O Shrink Machine, Barbie and Lite-Brite. And the cars! Classics like the Chevrolet Chevelle, Dodge Charger, Ford Mustang, Pontiac GTO, Pontiac Grand Prix, Chevrolet Camaro and Plymouth Road Runner were cruising the streets.

The Magazine Scene
TV Guide featured "The Mod Squad," Life covered the Apollo 11 mission, Sports Illustrated showcased the World Series and Lew Alcindor, Time delved into the Chappaquiddick incident, Tiger Beat spotlighted Bobby Sherman and Circus magazine featured Frank Zappa. These magazines captured the essence of the era perfectly.

1969 was a whirlwind of events, culture and change. It was a year of contrasts—amazing achievements alongside tragic moments. I've had an incredible time exploring this year with you all. What strikes you most about 1969? Share your thoughts in the comments! And if you loved this deep dive and want more explorations into different eras, or if you're feeling generous and want to support my historical adventures, a small contribution would be greatly appreciated—it helps keep this blog going! Stay retro!

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Love, Lies, and Laughter: A Joyride Through Alexis Hall’s "10 Things That Never Happened"

There’s a certain magic in receiving a book as a gift. It feels like an unspoken acknowledgment—“This made me think of you.” That’s how I got my hands on 10 Things That Never Happened by Alexis Hall, courtesy of my manager, Brittani. It came my way after Christmas, a cheerful surprise that I hadn’t expected but wholeheartedly welcomed. I had intentionally refrained from purchasing it myself—I’d slipped it onto the Christmas gift guide I made for my partner, Terry, who likes a little direction when gift-giving rolls around. While Terry didn’t snag this one for me, Brittani swooped in like a literary Santa, and I couldn’t have been happier.

Having adored Boyfriend Material and Husband Material, 2 incredible books that Terry gifted me the Christmas before, I already trusted Alexis Hall to deliver another winner. I skipped over the ARC copy in my possession because I wanted the joy of savoring this story straight from the crisp, printed pages. And let me tell you, it was worth the wait.

Sam Becker is living his best managerial life—or at least, he was until his boss, Jonathan Forest, summoned him to the Croydon branch for "a talk." Sam loves his role managing the Leeds location of a bed and bath retailer. He’s a natural leader, creating a workplace his team genuinely loves—a rare feat. But Jonathan, the intimidating, no-nonsense owner of the company, sees things differently. Hiring Sam had been a sentimental decision, one he now regrets. Determined to rectify his perceived mistake, Jonathan is ready for a tough conversation.

Only, things take an unexpected turn. Sam, thoroughly panicked by the prospect of a confrontation with his surly boss, bumps his head. And in a moment of impulsive genius—or sheer terror—he decides to fake amnesia. What starts as a wild excuse to save his job turns into something much more complicated as Jonathan, wracked with guilt, takes Sam into his home to "recover."

As Sam gets to know Jonathan better, he starts to see a softer, more human side to the man he once thought was all steel and edges. But with their relationship evolving under the shadow of one big lie, Sam faces a dilemma: can he come clean without breaking what they’ve built? Alexis Hall masterfully blends laugh-out-loud moments with deeply touching scenes, crafting a rom-com that’s as heartfelt as it is hilarious.

Sam and Jonathan’s journey is everything I love about Alexis Hall’s writing. These characters aren’t just protagonists; they feel like real, flawed people with quirks, insecurities, and layers that peel back over the course of the story. Sam’s sunny disposition and Jonathan’s gruff exterior create a delightful opposites-attract dynamic, and watching their relationship evolve is nothing short of enchanting.
What makes this book shine is the emotional depth behind all the humor. One moment you’re giggling at Sam’s antics, and the next, you’re hit with a wave of poignancy that stays with you. Alexis Hall excels at creating stories where love doesn’t just happen despite the messiness—it happens because of it. And the supporting cast? Pure gold. They bring added hilarity and heart, making the story even richer.

It’s not just a rom-com; it’s a reminder of the beauty in vulnerability, second chances, and the courage to face the truth—even when it’s messy.

Have you had the chance to read 10 Things That Never Happened yet? What were your standout moments? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Let’s gush, laugh, and dissect this incredible story together! And hey—if you’re feeling extra generous today, know that any small token of appreciation to fuel more bookish adventures is always treasured. 😉
Here’s to stories that make us laugh, cry, and believe in the beauty of messy, complicated love!

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A Royal Read Worth Bowing To: My Journey Through The Rules of Royalty by Cale Dietrich

Sometimes a book comes along that sweeps you off your feet in the most delightful, unexpected way. For me, that book was The Rules of Royalty by Cale Dietrich. As someone who works with books and loves to read, I usually stick to advanced reader copies—but this time was different. The story sounded so irresistible that I actually bought it when I came across it while shelving a shipment at work just a few days ago. And wow, what a decision! Within 48 hours of cracking it open, I had completely devoured this gem. Safe to say, I fell head over heels for both Prince Erik and Jamie—and trust me, you'll want to as well.

Picture this: a regular American teen discovers he’s not so regular after all. Jamie Johnson is the heir to the throne of Mitanor, a sunny and dazzling European kingdom. Naturally, his life is flipped upside down when he’s invited to his father’s summer palace to embrace his newfound royal roots. But that’s not all—Jamie finds himself under the wing of Erik Von Rosenborg, the dashing and duty-bound spare prince of a neighboring kingdom. Tasked with teaching Jamie the "rules of royalty," Erik soon finds himself wrestling with feelings far deeper than he'd anticipated.

This isn’t just a story about royal palaces, regal traditions, and fancy etiquette—though it delivers on those fronts too. At its heart, The Rules of Royalty is a beautifully crafted tale of identity, self-discovery and the kind of love that makes you rethink everything. Erik and Jamie’s chemistry is electric and their journey is a reminder that even under the weight of crowns, the human heart craves connection.

What truly sets this book apart are its characters. Jamie is relatable, awkward in the best way and full of heart. Erik, meanwhile, brings depth, charm and a vulnerability that’s impossible not to love. Watching them navigate the complexities of their roles and feelings was such a joy. They’re the kind of characters who stick with you long after the last page. Here’s one of my favorite (non-spoiler!) lines from the book: "Sometimes, the hardest thing isn’t choosing between right and wrong—it’s choosing between what’s expected and what feels true." Moments like these made me pause and reflect, which I think is the hallmark of truly great storytelling.

For those unfamiliar with Cale Dietrich, let me just say—this isn’t his first literary rodeo. Dietrich has a knack for creating meaningful, queer narratives that tug at your heartstrings. His other works, including The Love Interest and If This Gets Out (co-written with Sophie Gonzales), have garnered acclaim for their authentic voices and compelling plots. Based in Brisbane, Dietrich continues to wow readers with stories that balance humor, heart, and just the right amount of drama.

Don’t just take my word for it—here’s what others have been saying:
Kirkus Reviews called it “a sweet romance filled with healthy relationships and honest discourse.”
The Book Ishelf described the book as a “fresh perspective on familiar tropes” with “authentic character development.”
Between the Shelves compared it to a queer retelling of The Princess Diaries—and honestly, they’re spot on.

If you’re curious, here’s how the publisher sums it up: "Two princes from neighboring countries fall into a whirlwind royal romance in this sparkling spin on The Princess Diaries by Cale Dietrich. At a magnificent summer palace, Erik guides Jamie through the intricacies of royal etiquette, politics, and history. What neither prince anticipates is the connection that sparks between them—one that challenges both of their futures."

I can’t recommend The Rules of Royalty enough. Whether you’re into royal romances, queer love stories, or tales of self-discovery, this book delivers in spades. It’s heartfelt, funny, and unputdownable. Cale Dietrich has truly outdone himself with this one. So, have you read The Rules of Royalty? What did you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! And if you enjoyed this post and want to keep my reading list growing, feel free to show some love—every bit of support is hugely appreciated. Happy reading, friends. Until next time!

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Embracing Eccentricity: A Dive into David Sedaris's Naked a book review

Naked by David Sedaris Front Cover

David Sedaris is one of my all time favorite authors. His quirky stories and style of writing is not only entertaining and light, it offers insight to the life of a not so typical family. “Naked” by David Sedaris is a rollicking collection of autobiographical essays that delve into the absurdities and eccentricities of Sedaris’s life. From his unconventional childhood to his adult misadventures, each essay is a blend of humor, wit, and deeply personal reflections. The book kicks off with “Chipped Beef,” where Sedaris sets the tone for his storytelling style—sharp, sardonic, and unflinchingly honest. He doesn’t shy away from exposing the oddities of his family dynamics, making you laugh out loud while also feeling a pang of empathy.

One standout essay, "Get Your Ya-Ya's Out!", paints a vivid picture of Sedaris’s eccentric Greek grandmother. Through his narrative, he manages to capture the complexity of familial relationships with a balance of humor and tenderness. Sedaris’s ability to find comedy in the mundane and the bizarre is what makes this book so compelling. His encounters and observations are quirky yet relatable, creating a connection with readers who see fragments of their own lives in his stories.

As the book progresses, Sedaris continues to unravel the fabric of his life with essays like “Next of Kin” and “Cyclops,” where he reflects on his experiences with an unfiltered lens. His storytelling is infused with a kind of vulnerable honesty that’s both disarming and engaging. The titular essay “Naked” is a particularly candid exploration of his time at a nudist colony, where his trademark humor and self-deprecation shine. Sedaris masterfully turns his personal discomfort into comedic gold, offering readers a glimpse into his psyche while keeping them thoroughly entertained.

In essence, “Naked” is a testament to David Sedaris’s talent for blending humor with introspection. His essays are not just funny anecdotes but insightful commentaries on human nature and the quirks that define us. It’s a book that will make you laugh, think, and perhaps even see the oddities in your own life through a more humorous lens. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Sedaris’s work, “Naked” is a must-read for anyone who appreciates sharp wit and genuine storytelling.

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My Book Review of Nightmare Before Kissmas by Sara Raasch

The Nightmare Before Kissmas American Cover

I finished this book last night and have been so excited to write this review since chapter three. It will be released October 8, 2024...just 5 days away from the time I post this. I honestly had a hard time putting it down. If you’re looking for a holiday read that perfectly blends the spooky vibes of Halloween with the festive cheer of Christmas, Nightmare Before Kissmas by Sara Raasch is your go-to book. This quirky rom-com introduces us to Nicholas “Coal” Claus, the Prince of Christmas, and Hex, the Prince of Halloween. Their worlds collide in the most delightful way, creating a story that’s both heartwarming and hilariously chaotic. Raasch’s writing is engaging and witty, making it hard to put the book down once you start.

Hex, the Prince of Halloween

One of the standout aspects of this book is the character development. Coal and Hex are not just charming leads; they have depth and personality that make their romance believable and endearing. Coal’s golden-hearted nature contrasts beautifully with Hex’s more rebellious spirit, and their chemistry is off the charts. The supporting characters also add a lot of flavor to the story, making the world feel rich and vibrant.

Coal, the Prince of Christmas

Raasch does a fantastic job of balancing humor and emotion. There are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, especially when the cultural quirks of Christmas and Halloween clash. But the book also touches on deeper themes, like the commercialization of holidays and the importance of staying true to oneself. It’s a fun read that also makes you think, which is a rare and delightful combination.

Overall, Nightmare Before Kissmas is a must-read for fans of holiday romances and paranormal comedies. It’s a fresh take on the holiday genre that will leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page. Whether you’re a fan of Christmas, Halloween, or just a good love story, this book has something for everyone. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, curl up by the fire, and dive into this enchanting tale!

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Date Me Bryson Keller by Kevin van Whye Book Review

Date Me Bryson Keller by Kevin van Whye

Date Me Bryson Keller North American cover

This YA romance was absolutely adorable, featuring a coming-out storyline that felt genuinely realistic, especially in regions of the US and the world where conservative religion still holds sway. I appreciated how Kai and Bryson were portrayed as real teenagers rather than exaggerated stereotypes. Their relationship reminds me a little bit of one I had with a classmate throughout middle and high school though our ending was nothing like Kai and Bryson. Often in YA novels, characters quote unlikely things or have peculiar hobbies that stretch believability. However, Kai’s aspirations to be a writer, his love for a band, his daily school drives with friends, and his struggle to keep his sexuality a secret all felt authentic and relatable. The romance between Kai and Bryson was incredibly sweet, showcasing some of the best chemistry I’ve encountered in a gay YA novel in a long time!

Date Me Bryson Keller UK Edition Cover

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Some of the blurbs from various authors and booksellers include:

"One of the most adorable, big-hearted, charming books in existence." --Becky Albertalli, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

"I can't tell you how much joy [Date Me, Bryson Keller] brought me. One of the most adorable, big-hearted, charming books in existence." —Becky Albertalli, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

“[A] fantastic love story. . . . Uplifting.” —BuzzFeed

"A poignant, cute queer love story that showers teens with support and shows that the hate will never win as long as we stick together." —The Nerd Daily

“An adorable featherlight romance.” —The Guardian

"A fun, feel-good story that shows the importance of having a strong support system, that love is love, and that everyone deserves to love and be loved." —School Library Journal

"This #ownvoices debut is scrupulously romantic. . . . A solid blend of swoon-worthy moments and minor injustices." —Kirkus Reviews

"[Kevin van Whye] writes a coming-out story with authority and empathy. . . . The execution is appealing, and readers, too, will want to date Bryson." —Booklist

"Debut author van Whye uses the dare to set up a book filled with good-natured sweetness." —Publishers Weekly

"A sweet romance and exploration of the ways we can accidentally fall in love. Adorable and authentic." —L. C. Rosen, author of Jack of Hearts (and Other Parts) and Camp

The basic storyline for those who love spoilers would be:

What If It's Us meets To All the Boys I've Loved Before in this upbeat and heartfelt boy-meets-boy romance that feels like a modern twist on a '90s rom-com! 

Everyone knows about the dare: Each week, Bryson Keller must date someone new--the first person to ask him out on Monday morning. 

But Kai Sheridan never expected Bryson to say yes to him. As the days go by, he discovers there's more to Bryson beneath the surface, and dating him begins to feel less like an act and more like the real thing. Kai knows how the story of a gay boy liking someone straight ends. With his heart on the line, he's awkwardly trying to navigate senior year at school, at home, and in the closet, all while grappling with the fact that this "relationship" will last only five days. After all, Bryson Keller is popular, good-looking, and straight . . . right?

Drawing on his own experiences, Kevin van Whye delivers an uplifting and poignant coming-out love story. Readers will root for Kai and Bryson to share their hearts with the world--and with each other.

About the Author: Kevin van Whye is a writer born and raised in South Africa, where his love for storytelling started at a young age. At four years old, he quit preschool because his teacher couldn't tell a story. Kevin's love affair with stories led him to film school to study script writing. Date Me, Bryson Keller is his first novel. Kevin currently lives in Johannesburg, and when he's not reading, he's writing stories that give his characters the happy rom-com endings they deserve. Find him at kevinvanwhye.com and on Instagram.

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Red White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston Book Review: A love story that transcends boundaries and expectations.

Casey McQuiston's Red, White & Royal Blue: A Book Review

Red White & Royal Blue Paperback Edition

I quit my job at Borders Books for more than two decades, and during that time, I stopped reading despite having bought numerous books with the hope of finishing them. It wasn't until the final days of Borders' liquidation sale that I managed to purchase a mass market paperback copy of Gaston Leroux's The Phantom of the Opera. It took nearly two decades for me to delve into the original story that my all-time favorite musical was based on. Since beginning my employment with Hudson Booksellers, which primarily serves travelers at airports, ports, and other travel hotspots, my reading habits have dramatically increased. This wasn't just for professional reasons but also because I rediscovered my passion for reading. In 2023, I read over 200 books, often enjoying them while listening to audiobooks provided by my company as well as titles acquired from Libro.FM and sometimes the library. Some might argue that listening to an audiobook isn't the same as reading, but I view it differently. Whether you're reading with your eyes or listening with your ears, if you're absorbing the words penned by an author, you're engaging in the act of reading.

Red White & Royal Blue promotional graphic

As someone who rediscovered their love for reading after a long hiatus, I found myself completely captivated by Casey McQuiston's "Red, White & Royal Blue." This New Adult debut novel is a whirlwind of emotions, seamlessly blending humor, romance, and thought-provoking themes of duty and identity. The story revolves around Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry of Wales. Thrown together by a PR stunt gone wrong, these two young men find themselves navigating a fake relationship that soon blossoms into something real.

McQuiston masterfully crafts Alex and Henry as complex and relatable characters. They grapple with societal pressures, personal insecurities, and the weight of their respective roles. Their journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance, as they learn to embrace who they truly are and fight for their right to love freely. The supporting characters add depth and humor to the narrative. Alex's sister, June, is a fierce protector, while his best friend, Nora, provides unwavering support. The interactions between these characters are heartwarming and genuine, adding another layer to the story's emotional impact. A recurring theme throughout the book is the concept of duty: to one's family, country, and oneself. McQuiston explores how these obligations can conflict with personal desires and the importance of finding a balance.

Red White & Royal Blue Film Poster

"Red, White & Royal Blue" is a story that leaves you wanting more. While reading, I imagined various actors playing the characters if a film version was made, not realizing the film had already been completed and was slated to be released through Amazon Prime Video within the year. Of course the day Amazon released the movie, I was in front of my television enjoying every bit of it, including one my favorite parts of the book which involved the massive cake incident which led to the PR stunt. It's a hopeful and optimistic tale that celebrates love, acceptance, and the power of individual voices. McQuiston's writing is fresh, engaging, and emotionally resonant. This book is a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of love to overcome any obstacle.

Red White & Royal Blue American Hardcover Edition

For those of you that love bonus material, be sure to check out the hardcover edition which includes some fun artwork on the dust jacket and book cover and an incredible bonus chapter.

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