FINDING PRINCE CHARMING

This life of an incoming college freshman is transformed when he makes a deal to get a second chance at a scholarship in middle-grade author Perry’s YA debut.

When his ex-boyfriend Pearson’s text messages make him late for his college scholarship interview and he’s turned away, 18-year-old Tyriq Howell pledges to stop letting his love life get in the way of his future. Tyriq receives another chance at the scholarship when mysterious and “stunningly handsome” student worker Desmond, 19, offers to wield his influence to get him another interview—if Tyriq will be his fake date to a fundraising event. Tyriq’s promise to himself (and his uber-competent twin brother, Troy) to stay focused and not fall in love becomes harder and harder to keep in the face of Desmond’s charm. But Desmond’s secret might be enough to keep them apart, especially when paparazzi attention reveals that Tyriq’s crush is the prince of Catalina, a fictional North Sea island kingdom located near England. The teens, who are both Black and gay, face challenges that stem from homophobia and racism as well as Desmond’s familial obligations, fame, and fortune. The leads are well-developed and complex, yet the story’s timeline sometimes skips over what feel like crucial moments of connection; this inconsistent focus may leave readers wanting more depth. Nevertheless, this romance tackles larger themes of choice and self-love while also portraying an enchanting, flirtatious relationship.

A charming romance with meaningful representation and strong characterization weakened only by uneven pacing.