Hyperion Books, 2010
239 pages
YA; Contemporary
4/5 stars
Source: Library
I loved Leavitt's Sean Griswold's Head so I wanted to check out this series, which looked super adorable! I mean, look at that cover! Princesses, pink, makeup, and candy=super fun. And that's what this was.
Desi is a teenager in Idaho, feeling like an outcast both among her peers and within her own family. Thus when she reads an ad that promises her adventures as royalty, she is thrilled. She jumps right in to her role as a princess substitute, challenging the conventions and attempting to improve the lives of the actual princess. When she starts to go too far though, the leadership puts her on trial possibly quashing her excitement.
I mostly liked and admired Desi, who works a crappy job at a pet store due to a new law that allows for almost 14-year olds to work. Her father prosecuted her former best friend's father for his crimes and that friend blames Desi, causing her social life to be nil. Said ex-friend is also dating Desi's longtime crush. Her enthusiasm for the job mirrored what mine would be and she took that opportunity not to lounge around but to make an impact. I appreciated the attempt to make princessing about a larger purpose, whether it's on a local or worldwide level.
There were also tantalizing glimpses of other characters who will probably play a larger role in later books. Meredith is the woman who recruited Desi; her prickly exterior covers a broken heart and a difficult past. Karl is a prince whose relationship with a princess entangles Desi more than it ought.
Overall: A delightfully fluffy fast-moving joy to read.
Cover: I love the cover and I find the bright pink very appealing.
Yay! So glad you liked this book. I think the sequel is even better. :)
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