Review: Playing The Palace by Paul Rudnick

Playing the Palace by Paul Rudnick

Published by Berkley Books on May 2021
Genres: Adult Fiction, Romance
Pages: 272
Format: eBook
Source: Publisher
Buy on Amazon Goodreads

4 Stars

When a lonely American event planner starts dating the gay Prince of Wales, a royal uproar ensues: is it true love or the ultimate meme? Find out in this hilarious romantic comedy.

After having his heart trampled on by his cheating ex, Carter Ogden is afraid love just isn’t in the cards for him. He still holds out hope in a tiny corner of his heart, but even in his wildest dreams he never thought he’d meet the Crown Prince of England, much less do a lot more with him. Yes, growing up he’d fantasized about the handsome, openly gay Prince Edgar, but who hadn’t? When they meet by chance at an event Carter’s boss is organizing, Carter’s sure he imagined all that sizzling chemistry. Or was it mutual?

This unlikely but meant-to-be romance sets off media fireworks on both sides of the Atlantic. With everyone having an opinion on their relationship and the intense pressure of being constantly in the spotlight, Carter finds ferocious obstacles to his Happily Ever After, including the tenacious disapproval of the Queen of England. Carter and Price Edgar fight for a happy ending to equal their glorious international beginning. It’s a match made on Valentine’s Day and in tabloid heaven.

There is so much fun to be had in Playing the Palace by Paul Rudnick.

I know I know. Everyone is thinking this like Red, White and Royal Blue and it’s just… not. Not in a bad way, but let’s stop comparisons because it is it’s own book. Now don’t get me wrong, I loved RWRB. But this is a wholly different book so can we please just enjoy it for it’s own charm?

Where to begin!?

I love Carter, who is his own worst enemy. This character’s vulnerabilities seemed very real as he second guesses himself and suffers from anxiety. What a guy to be suddenly dating the Prince of Wales! Carter’s narration is hilarious, clever and witty. There were some real LOL moments. Seeing the world through Carter’s eyes isn’t a bad thing and is often times hysterical. That added to his charm and also put a very private spotlight on his insecurities. Prince Edgar has his faults too, but what I really liked about this couple was how strong they were together. Sure there was trouble and misunderstandings and def. a certain younger brother and his wife who seemed to be vying for the crown… but I like how two imperfect characters can come together and just make sense. This is Carter and Edgar.

All of the supporting characters are fantastic but my heart has a special place for Carter’s sister Abby. She is strong and fearless and really boosts him up when he needs it. Everyone needs someone like this in their life. Also Queen Catherine is so extra. She stole all the scenes she was in and I would happily read a book just about her and her sass.

Also, IHOP. I wanted IHOP the entire time I read this book. So thanks a lot Paul Rudnick.

Playing the Palace is fun and romantic and all the perfect things to read during a pandemic.