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A review by tristatereader
The Unlikely Heir by Jax Calder
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
I was a little apprehensive about this book because the cover and synopsis reminded me of one of my favorite American / British, forbidden-love, mm books. But so many of my friends raved about it and I truly love Jax’s writing, so I gave it a go. And I’m really glad I did! The Unlikely Heir was the perfect read to end my 2023.
Callum Prescott, an insurance call-center worker from California, has just jumped the line of succession to become the Prince of Wales. He suddenly finds himself in the UK and thrust into the spotlight and scrutiny of being an American heir to the British throne. He feels like a fish out of water and these feelings are only magnified when the people in his life begin selling stories of him to tabloids. He finds himself feeling lonely, isolated, and unsure of who to trust. Then he meets the Prime Minister, Oliver Hartwell, who truly understands the weight that’s been placed on Callum’s shoulders. The two immediately bond and become close friends. But as they begin to embrace their romantic feelings for one another, the state of the Commonwealth becomes a barrier. Can their love survive their positions?
I found Callum to be one of, if not THE, most likable character I read in 2023. I truly adored absolutely everything about this guy. He was quirky, sensitive, passionate, and above all, so so kind. His vast knowledge of subjects was so incredibly endearing and I was over the moon when Oliver not only recognized this sweet character trait, but encouraged it. Oliver was also a great character. 14 years older than Callum, he had a bit of a hardened, politically-conscious facade. But being with Callum helped him let his guard down, taught him to trust, and showed him unconditional love. Along with the blossoming romance comes a history of the monarchy and government, which I found so interesting. There was also a huge plot twist that I didn’t see coming, which is really rare for me. I can usually spot them a mile away but this one caught me by total surprise, and I was really excited about that.
Callum Prescott, an insurance call-center worker from California, has just jumped the line of succession to become the Prince of Wales. He suddenly finds himself in the UK and thrust into the spotlight and scrutiny of being an American heir to the British throne. He feels like a fish out of water and these feelings are only magnified when the people in his life begin selling stories of him to tabloids. He finds himself feeling lonely, isolated, and unsure of who to trust. Then he meets the Prime Minister, Oliver Hartwell, who truly understands the weight that’s been placed on Callum’s shoulders. The two immediately bond and become close friends. But as they begin to embrace their romantic feelings for one another, the state of the Commonwealth becomes a barrier. Can their love survive their positions?
I found Callum to be one of, if not THE, most likable character I read in 2023. I truly adored absolutely everything about this guy. He was quirky, sensitive, passionate, and above all, so so kind. His vast knowledge of subjects was so incredibly endearing and I was over the moon when Oliver not only recognized this sweet character trait, but encouraged it. Oliver was also a great character. 14 years older than Callum, he had a bit of a hardened, politically-conscious facade. But being with Callum helped him let his guard down, taught him to trust, and showed him unconditional love. Along with the blossoming romance comes a history of the monarchy and government, which I found so interesting. There was also a huge plot twist that I didn’t see coming, which is really rare for me. I can usually spot them a mile away but this one caught me by total surprise, and I was really excited about that.