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Here's Where She Meets Prince Charming
On paper, seventeen-year-old Natalie Tremayne has it all. She’s got stellar grades, a passion for theater, and more than enough talent in the swimming pool to make her plans for four parent-free years at the college of her dreams realistic. The only place she’s missing anything is socially: the tall and buoyant body that benefits her in the pool has only ever intimidated the boys at her school.
When the enigmatic new kid Campbell Adams gets the lead role in the school’s production of Beauty and the Beast, Natalie begins to wonder if her drought is about to come to an end. Their connection is instant: Campbell is a mystery that Natalie is determined to crack.
But when the secret he’s made himself invisible to hide has nothing to do with the Dread Pirate Roberts or sparkling in the sunshine, Natalie finds herself swimming in a whole new pool of reality. With her high school days coming to an end and college on the horizon, Natalie will have to learn that the best way to make the universe laugh is to make a plan, and that the lemonade you make yourself out of life’s lemons is the best drink in the world.
When the enigmatic new kid Campbell Adams gets the lead role in the school’s production of Beauty and the Beast, Natalie begins to wonder if her drought is about to come to an end. Their connection is instant: Campbell is a mystery that Natalie is determined to crack.
But when the secret he’s made himself invisible to hide has nothing to do with the Dread Pirate Roberts or sparkling in the sunshine, Natalie finds herself swimming in a whole new pool of reality. With her high school days coming to an end and college on the horizon, Natalie will have to learn that the best way to make the universe laugh is to make a plan, and that the lemonade you make yourself out of life’s lemons is the best drink in the world.
- GenresRomanceYoung Adult
278 pages, Paperback
Published May 21, 2024
1 person is currently reading
1568 people want to read
About the author
Kristin Wright
5 books244 followersKristin lives in Virginia with her husband, two sons, and two beagles (one silly, one Machiavellian). She's a native of the Detroit area, a graduate of the University of Michigan Law School and has practiced law in many fields, including big firm litigation, criminal defense, personal injury, local government, and divorce and custody. She writes before work and behind the wheel of her car in the parking lots of many youth sport practices.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 11, 2024
I was pleasantly surprised by this coming of age book. The first half was a little slow, but the last half delivered a beautiful story about many of the difficult issues teens face. Bullying, body-shaming, and teenage pregnancy were some of the issues this book explores in an often heartbreaking but beautiful way.
Natalie is a senior in high school with her future ahead of her. She is a star on the swim team and has just been cast in a school play. Tall and strongly-built, she is also the victim of bullying.
When the new student, Campbell, also snags a part in the play, Natalie finds herself curious about her quiet and handsome classmate. As she gets to know Campbell, she finds a friend with challenges she would never have imagined.
This book has a very sweet and relatable vibe. I enjoyed getting to know the characters. I really found myself connecting with Campbell as I learned his story. A little heavier than I was expecting, this book beautifully explores the struggles many face, teenagers and adults alike. I loved it.
Here's Where She Meets Prince Charming will be published May 21, 2024.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Owl Hollow Press for the opportunity to read this lovely book.
Natalie is a senior in high school with her future ahead of her. She is a star on the swim team and has just been cast in a school play. Tall and strongly-built, she is also the victim of bullying.
When the new student, Campbell, also snags a part in the play, Natalie finds herself curious about her quiet and handsome classmate. As she gets to know Campbell, she finds a friend with challenges she would never have imagined.
This book has a very sweet and relatable vibe. I enjoyed getting to know the characters. I really found myself connecting with Campbell as I learned his story. A little heavier than I was expecting, this book beautifully explores the struggles many face, teenagers and adults alike. I loved it.
Here's Where She Meets Prince Charming will be published May 21, 2024.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Owl Hollow Press for the opportunity to read this lovely book.
June 2, 2025
Overall, this is a beautifully crafted book, especially the last half! There is a lot of discussion about topics that we do not always in a YA novels.
Without going into detail, Campbell and Natalie are characters that a lot of people can see themselves in. Once the twist hits there is a lot of internal struggles faced by both characters that make you really think about life as a teenager in modern society.
As a theatre kid, I enjoyed the pieces and parts that talked about the play, but it was not too heavy for a none theatre people.
Altogether, I would rate this book a four out of five stars. The only reason it is not a five is because the beginning was a little on the slow side, but don't let it deter you. I am very glad that I read this book!
Without going into detail, Campbell and Natalie are characters that a lot of people can see themselves in. Once the twist hits there is a lot of internal struggles faced by both characters that make you really think about life as a teenager in modern society.
As a theatre kid, I enjoyed the pieces and parts that talked about the play, but it was not too heavy for a none theatre people.
Altogether, I would rate this book a four out of five stars. The only reason it is not a five is because the beginning was a little on the slow side, but don't let it deter you. I am very glad that I read this book!
May 20, 2024
Language: R (187 swears, 5 “f”); Mature Content: PG13; Violence: PG
As a senior, this will be Natalie’s (17yo) last school musical, and she’s ready for the female lead. She doesn’t get it. But more surprising is that quiet Campbell (17yo) is cast as the male lead. Every interaction they have leaves Natalie with more questions than answers, and she’s determined to wheedle every detail of his life out of the reluctant Campbell.
Like Natalie, I, as the reader, came to respect Campbell and to see a perspective I have not often considered. Campbell’s secret inspired a variety of responses from the characters, and it was interesting to think about the actions I did and did not agree with. The story feels real and relevant, and I appreciate that Wright kept that feeling through the last page, giving her characters realistic solutions that did not make everything magically better.
Natalie is White (her mom is American and her dad is English), Noah is Black and is also gay, and Marisa is described as having “light tan” skin. The mature content rating is for underage drinking; mentions of drugs, condoms, orgies, and sex; groping; nudity; and innuendo. The violence rating is for assault.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
As a senior, this will be Natalie’s (17yo) last school musical, and she’s ready for the female lead. She doesn’t get it. But more surprising is that quiet Campbell (17yo) is cast as the male lead. Every interaction they have leaves Natalie with more questions than answers, and she’s determined to wheedle every detail of his life out of the reluctant Campbell.
Like Natalie, I, as the reader, came to respect Campbell and to see a perspective I have not often considered. Campbell’s secret inspired a variety of responses from the characters, and it was interesting to think about the actions I did and did not agree with. The story feels real and relevant, and I appreciate that Wright kept that feeling through the last page, giving her characters realistic solutions that did not make everything magically better.
Natalie is White (her mom is American and her dad is English), Noah is Black and is also gay, and Marisa is described as having “light tan” skin. The mature content rating is for underage drinking; mentions of drugs, condoms, orgies, and sex; groping; nudity; and innuendo. The violence rating is for assault.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
June 13, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley, Owl Hollow Press and Kristin Wright for providing me with an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a wonderfully written, very compelling YA contemporary romance. I found myself rooting for Natalie, our point of view character, almost from the first page. Nat is smart, ambitious and dedicated, a star on the swim team and a committed musical theatre performer as well as a top student in her senior year.
We get to know a little about her family, her mother's overbearing concern about her heavier and taller physique, and her father's support as a professor at the local state university. The first major disappointment for Nat comes when she misses out on the lead in Beauty and the Beast - to make things worse, her beloved theatre teacher even admits that it's all about her physique and nothing to do with her talent and ability. Outwardly, Natalie rolls with the disappointment with the kind of confidence that young people will admire and respect in her character. I found myself really inspired by how well she knew herself and how much she valued her mind, character and body for everything she could do throughout the story. This book truly delivers the kind of body neutrality/positivity that I wish I had read more of as a teenager!
Of course, the romance wouldn't be a romance without a love interest! Campbell, a senior like Nat, is relatively new to the school and very reserved; they have seen each other at swim training every weekday for a year without ever really exchanging a word. When he surprises everyone by audtioning for the spring musical - and getting cast as the Beast - he and Natalie are quickly drawn towards each other. There were plenty of swoon-worthy moments as the romance between them developed, slowly, tensely, and not always in a hopeful direction... By the time we reach the resolution and Nat and Campbell find themselves at the start of a new, post-high school chapter in each of their lives, we are left with the genuine sense that their happy-for-now might just be forever. Or maybe it won't - and maybe that'll be okay, too. Whatever happens, Nat and Campbell feel well-matched, hopeful, realistic, excited, nervous and carefree all at once - a lovely, relatable and realistic high school coming-of-age.
This book touches on some quite heavy topics that I don't often see written about so openly in the YA space, including sex ed and abstinence education, unplanned pregnancy, and alcohol misuse. Kristin Wright does a stellar job of giving the issues the weight they deserve without casting judgement. The whole cast of characters - from the popular girl playing Belle to the usually-cool dad who freaks out when Nat starts dating - show Nat (and the reader) that they will always have the capacity to surprise us. Overall, I really enjoyed this story - an adorable, just-on-the-PG-13-side of steamy romance with a huge, human heart.
Here's Where She Meets Prince Charming is published May 21 2024 by Owl Hollow Press.
This is a wonderfully written, very compelling YA contemporary romance. I found myself rooting for Natalie, our point of view character, almost from the first page. Nat is smart, ambitious and dedicated, a star on the swim team and a committed musical theatre performer as well as a top student in her senior year.
We get to know a little about her family, her mother's overbearing concern about her heavier and taller physique, and her father's support as a professor at the local state university. The first major disappointment for Nat comes when she misses out on the lead in Beauty and the Beast - to make things worse, her beloved theatre teacher even admits that it's all about her physique and nothing to do with her talent and ability. Outwardly, Natalie rolls with the disappointment with the kind of confidence that young people will admire and respect in her character. I found myself really inspired by how well she knew herself and how much she valued her mind, character and body for everything she could do throughout the story. This book truly delivers the kind of body neutrality/positivity that I wish I had read more of as a teenager!
Of course, the romance wouldn't be a romance without a love interest! Campbell, a senior like Nat, is relatively new to the school and very reserved; they have seen each other at swim training every weekday for a year without ever really exchanging a word. When he surprises everyone by audtioning for the spring musical - and getting cast as the Beast - he and Natalie are quickly drawn towards each other. There were plenty of swoon-worthy moments as the romance between them developed, slowly, tensely, and not always in a hopeful direction... By the time we reach the resolution and Nat and Campbell find themselves at the start of a new, post-high school chapter in each of their lives, we are left with the genuine sense that their happy-for-now might just be forever. Or maybe it won't - and maybe that'll be okay, too. Whatever happens, Nat and Campbell feel well-matched, hopeful, realistic, excited, nervous and carefree all at once - a lovely, relatable and realistic high school coming-of-age.
This book touches on some quite heavy topics that I don't often see written about so openly in the YA space, including sex ed and abstinence education, unplanned pregnancy, and alcohol misuse. Kristin Wright does a stellar job of giving the issues the weight they deserve without casting judgement. The whole cast of characters - from the popular girl playing Belle to the usually-cool dad who freaks out when Nat starts dating - show Nat (and the reader) that they will always have the capacity to surprise us. Overall, I really enjoyed this story - an adorable, just-on-the-PG-13-side of steamy romance with a huge, human heart.
Here's Where She Meets Prince Charming is published May 21 2024 by Owl Hollow Press.
April 18, 2024
I was lucky enough to read an advance copy of this utterly captivating and charming story and can’t wait for the rest of the world to read it!
March 15, 2024
Wright’s YA debut is just as eloquently and brilliantly written as her adult books—her prose is as poetic as it is concise. I was among the privileged few who got to read an early iteration of HERE’S WHERE SHE MEETS PRINCE CHARMING, and it has been a delight to read again and witness the masterpiece that are these character arcs. This story took me back to my own high school days and reminded me of people I cared for who were in a similar difficult situation. Wright handles these issues with empathy and maturity while realistically illustrating how messily young adults juggle complex family dynamics and romance. Natalie and Campbell are both such lovable, relatable characters, and are complemented by a cast of equally entertaining secondaries. You’ll even find yourself eventually rooting for the villains of the story, because one of the biggest takeaways—at least for me—is that even villains have a backstory deserving of empathy. 5 enthusiastic stars.
March 25, 2024
What a perfect YA contemp romance. Natalie Tremayne is a whip-smart high school senior with a bright future. She's a top swimmer, an A student, pretty good friends with her classmates, and she's got a small part in the high school play (you guessed it, Beauty and the Beast). Not the lead, but that's okay. She hasn't had any real boyfriends, and she's been teased a lot for her height and figure, but she's content with her body, and doesn't need a boy to distract from her focus to escape to a college far, far away. Enter Campbell Adams, cast as the lead in the play to the surprise of his peers. Natalie has seen Campbell, both on the swim team and in her classes, but he keeps to himself, as quiet as he is gorgeous. In the two years since he transferred in, Natalie has never exchanged two words with him. Now that he's caught her attention (and has even flirted with her), she suddenly understands all the fuss around an honest-to-god crush on a boy. Getting to know him sparks her curiosity, and she's determined to figure out his story, unraveling the secret he's kept himself in the shadows to hide.
This book is so immersive, it put me right back in high school (in the best way). The school comes alive with the variety of teen characters, and the adults are realistically flawed. For me, it brings back all the feels of a first crush and the swoons of discovering that crush is requited. But it also deals with a serious topic with lots of compassion, reminding me of people in this very situation and giving it a new perspective (you'll have to read to figure out what that is because half the fun is trying to figure out this secret). The writing is gorgeous, funny, and compelling.
Highly recommend.
This book is so immersive, it put me right back in high school (in the best way). The school comes alive with the variety of teen characters, and the adults are realistically flawed. For me, it brings back all the feels of a first crush and the swoons of discovering that crush is requited. But it also deals with a serious topic with lots of compassion, reminding me of people in this very situation and giving it a new perspective (you'll have to read to figure out what that is because half the fun is trying to figure out this secret). The writing is gorgeous, funny, and compelling.
Highly recommend.
June 12, 2024
Thank you to @owlhollowpress, @kristinbuttonwright and @storygramtours for sending this thoughtful YA romance my way.
I am a total sucker for a coming of age story. And any story that gives us theatre geeks their time in the spotlight. This one has all that and more! It touches on all the tough spots of high school from cliques to bullying, dating and body image. It also dives deeper into bigger themes like teen pregnancy, financial insecurity, and college pressure.
The story follows a HS Senior named Natalie who has a great head on her shoulder - good grades, a passion for theater, and a shot at a swimming scholarship at her dream college. But socially she struggles, thanks to a class bully who loves to remind her how tall and strong she is, but not in a good way. So no dating. No dances.
But when the quiet new kid, Campbell, gets the lead in the musical, Natalie feels an instant connection and is determined to figure out his mysterious ways.The more time they spend together, the more she likes him and the more she sees his struggles.
I love stories like this - that don’t shy away from all that teens go through. That treat them like the adults they are but also honor that messy, in between space they are navigating. I thought the look at the variety of reactions Campbell’s situation created was thoughtful and relevant. Natalie is a witty and driven, but juggles family dynamics and complex situations with empathy and maturity.
You can tell Wright has teens because this felt very real and vulnerable and timely. I think a lot of teens will see themselves in these characters and identify with their struggles.
#HeresWhereSheMeetsPrinceCharming #KristinWright #yaromancebooks #teenreads #storygramtours
I am a total sucker for a coming of age story. And any story that gives us theatre geeks their time in the spotlight. This one has all that and more! It touches on all the tough spots of high school from cliques to bullying, dating and body image. It also dives deeper into bigger themes like teen pregnancy, financial insecurity, and college pressure.
The story follows a HS Senior named Natalie who has a great head on her shoulder - good grades, a passion for theater, and a shot at a swimming scholarship at her dream college. But socially she struggles, thanks to a class bully who loves to remind her how tall and strong she is, but not in a good way. So no dating. No dances.
But when the quiet new kid, Campbell, gets the lead in the musical, Natalie feels an instant connection and is determined to figure out his mysterious ways.The more time they spend together, the more she likes him and the more she sees his struggles.
I love stories like this - that don’t shy away from all that teens go through. That treat them like the adults they are but also honor that messy, in between space they are navigating. I thought the look at the variety of reactions Campbell’s situation created was thoughtful and relevant. Natalie is a witty and driven, but juggles family dynamics and complex situations with empathy and maturity.
You can tell Wright has teens because this felt very real and vulnerable and timely. I think a lot of teens will see themselves in these characters and identify with their struggles.
#HeresWhereSheMeetsPrinceCharming #KristinWright #yaromancebooks #teenreads #storygramtours
April 27, 2024
Natalie enjoys trying out for school plays and this year the new student Campbell is also trying out. Natalie finds herself drawn to Campbell and despite his warnings that she can do better, Campbell is drawn to Natalie as well. Problem is that Campbell has a secret that can ruin their relationship as well as his reputation.
The premise around a high school production of Beauty and the Beast sounded intriguing. I've always enjoyed Beauty and the Beast and was curious to see the plot around the play. The play was not the entire focus of the book though, there are scenes throughout that show rehearsals and the interactions between fellow cast members, but more of the plot was the focus on the characters daily lives. Showing Natalie and Campbell on their swim teams, their friendships, and their budding relationship. I enjoyed seeing Natalie and Campbell grow closer and when Natalie finds out Campbells secret how she ultimately handles the situation.
This was a quick read that I mostly enjoyed. There are some heavy topics including weight shaming and bullying. While there are some heavy topics there are some moments of resilience and coming to the defense of their friends. Overall, and enjoyable read.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
The premise around a high school production of Beauty and the Beast sounded intriguing. I've always enjoyed Beauty and the Beast and was curious to see the plot around the play. The play was not the entire focus of the book though, there are scenes throughout that show rehearsals and the interactions between fellow cast members, but more of the plot was the focus on the characters daily lives. Showing Natalie and Campbell on their swim teams, their friendships, and their budding relationship. I enjoyed seeing Natalie and Campbell grow closer and when Natalie finds out Campbells secret how she ultimately handles the situation.
This was a quick read that I mostly enjoyed. There are some heavy topics including weight shaming and bullying. While there are some heavy topics there are some moments of resilience and coming to the defense of their friends. Overall, and enjoyable read.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
May 22, 2024
I recently finished “Here’s Where She Meets Prince Charming” and if you’re a former high school theater kid looking for a quick read that will have you grinning from ear to ear, you’re going to love Natalie and Campbell.
Natalie is almost finished with her senior year of high school and after trying out for the spring musical, she’s intrigued to meet Campbell, the new male lead playing the mysterious Beast in Beauty and the Beast. Natalie’s wit, sense of humor and unrelenting drive made her relatable, her lack of patience can get her into trouble and her empathy for others had me rooting for her the whole book. Campbell is your typical tortured and mysterious brooding MMC, who you know deep down has a heart of gold (it’s a romance novel after all!) The book is lively and upbeat while “slightly” tackling some bigger subject matters (that I won’t spoil here) without being heavy handed about it which was nice.
The world building and character building isn’t super in-depth but again we’re dealing with a standalone romance novel ands expectations should be adjusted accordingly. I would have loved to see a bit more character growth from our FMC but I think that has to do more with the smaller timeline in the book than anything else!
Overall I think this was a fantastic read, and I would highly recommend it for romance, YA, and former theater kid readers!
Natalie is almost finished with her senior year of high school and after trying out for the spring musical, she’s intrigued to meet Campbell, the new male lead playing the mysterious Beast in Beauty and the Beast. Natalie’s wit, sense of humor and unrelenting drive made her relatable, her lack of patience can get her into trouble and her empathy for others had me rooting for her the whole book. Campbell is your typical tortured and mysterious brooding MMC, who you know deep down has a heart of gold (it’s a romance novel after all!) The book is lively and upbeat while “slightly” tackling some bigger subject matters (that I won’t spoil here) without being heavy handed about it which was nice.
The world building and character building isn’t super in-depth but again we’re dealing with a standalone romance novel ands expectations should be adjusted accordingly. I would have loved to see a bit more character growth from our FMC but I think that has to do more with the smaller timeline in the book than anything else!
Overall I think this was a fantastic read, and I would highly recommend it for romance, YA, and former theater kid readers!
May 1, 2024
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Fun and charming YA romance. The main characters in this story were likeable and their chemistry was great. This YA is the authors debut into YA. Keeping this in mind, Here’s Where She Meets Prince Charming is a great first step into YA as the book was really enjoyable. I liked that it touched on some deeper topics and wasn’t just nonsensical arguments/problems but believable and real problems. I thought the topics touched on in this story were dealt with respectfully and well. I enjoyed the character growth of both Natalie and Campbell.
The author has a great writing style and the story was well structured and easy to get sucked into!
I found some of the language in this hard to get along with at times, but that may have been a personal preference.
The premise of this book is based around the beauty and the beast play the characters are putting on at their high school. However the plot follows much more than just this as we see our main character at home, at swim-meets etc. There are lots more layers to this story. I really enjoyed this read and would recommend to anyone looking for a fast paced, cute, layered YA romance.
ARC REVIEW- In exchange for honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own 💕
Fun and charming YA romance. The main characters in this story were likeable and their chemistry was great. This YA is the authors debut into YA. Keeping this in mind, Here’s Where She Meets Prince Charming is a great first step into YA as the book was really enjoyable. I liked that it touched on some deeper topics and wasn’t just nonsensical arguments/problems but believable and real problems. I thought the topics touched on in this story were dealt with respectfully and well. I enjoyed the character growth of both Natalie and Campbell.
The author has a great writing style and the story was well structured and easy to get sucked into!
I found some of the language in this hard to get along with at times, but that may have been a personal preference.
The premise of this book is based around the beauty and the beast play the characters are putting on at their high school. However the plot follows much more than just this as we see our main character at home, at swim-meets etc. There are lots more layers to this story. I really enjoyed this read and would recommend to anyone looking for a fast paced, cute, layered YA romance.
ARC REVIEW- In exchange for honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own 💕
June 2, 2024
I preface my review in stating that I don't read a lot of YA novels. Maybe it's my age, or maybe because I don't tend to find the situations realistic (especially in resolution).
Which is all to say that I was pleasantly surprised, and in a good way, with this novel.
Now it's been a hot minute since I've been in high school, but the characters were so realistic, and the I sympathized with their struggles and insecurities. There wasn't one time where I said to myself "as if."
Natalie and Campbell are absolutely great and well-written characters, and the supporting cast were as well.
Without giving too much away, I have to say that I loved the ending. I haven't been that satisfied with a conclusion of a novel in a long time.
The story was a bit slow to get going, but I also appreciate the time spent developing the characters and plot.
This was definitely one of the better reads I've read all year. This romance was better than a lot of modern day adult-geared novels. I look forward to reading more from this writer. I will definitely had Kristin Wright to my must-read list.
***
Disclaimer: I received and advance copy through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you Kristin Wright and Owl Hollow Press for the copy.
Which is all to say that I was pleasantly surprised, and in a good way, with this novel.
Now it's been a hot minute since I've been in high school, but the characters were so realistic, and the I sympathized with their struggles and insecurities. There wasn't one time where I said to myself "as if."
Natalie and Campbell are absolutely great and well-written characters, and the supporting cast were as well.
Without giving too much away, I have to say that I loved the ending. I haven't been that satisfied with a conclusion of a novel in a long time.
The story was a bit slow to get going, but I also appreciate the time spent developing the characters and plot.
This was definitely one of the better reads I've read all year. This romance was better than a lot of modern day adult-geared novels. I look forward to reading more from this writer. I will definitely had Kristin Wright to my must-read list.
***
Disclaimer: I received and advance copy through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you Kristin Wright and Owl Hollow Press for the copy.
May 5, 2024
Here's Where She Meets Prince Charming- By: Kristin Wright
Available 5/21/24- YA
For a YA book, this was surprisingly heavy. Natalie is on a very straight path to get into the college of her dreams, and then she meets Campbell, who is a guarded and mysterious boy that just transferred from another school. He mostly stays to himself, but there is something about him that draws Natalie to him. He has the lead in the school play, Beauty and the Beast, while Natalie plays Mrs. Potts. She makes it her mission to get to know him. As this happens, she finds that he has a secret of his own, and this secret rules his life and his future. I really enjoyed this book. The characters had a definite chemistry, and you are rooting for them the whole time.
I will say there were a couple times that I would get really mad at certain characters in this book. First, Natalie's mother. She is really hard on Natalie when it comes to her body, saying that she should watch what she eats, etc. The second is the bully, who is so horrible and truly a terrible person. Overall, though, I would give this book a 4/5.
Available 5/21/24- YA
For a YA book, this was surprisingly heavy. Natalie is on a very straight path to get into the college of her dreams, and then she meets Campbell, who is a guarded and mysterious boy that just transferred from another school. He mostly stays to himself, but there is something about him that draws Natalie to him. He has the lead in the school play, Beauty and the Beast, while Natalie plays Mrs. Potts. She makes it her mission to get to know him. As this happens, she finds that he has a secret of his own, and this secret rules his life and his future. I really enjoyed this book. The characters had a definite chemistry, and you are rooting for them the whole time.
I will say there were a couple times that I would get really mad at certain characters in this book. First, Natalie's mother. She is really hard on Natalie when it comes to her body, saying that she should watch what she eats, etc. The second is the bully, who is so horrible and truly a terrible person. Overall, though, I would give this book a 4/5.
May 21, 2024
I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. As a fan of Wright's adult mystery books, I was interested in reading this book as I do like some YA. My only hesitation was the release date and fast turnaround. I was able to fit this book into my reading prior to the release date of May 21.
This book is much deeper and more complex with adult like theme problems and life challenges than I anticipated. Not wanting to give anything away, I really liked Natalie as a strong female character. Natalie struggles somewhat with her size being teased, as she's quite tall and athletic due to swimming. She enjoys singing in school plays and has a supportive best friend. Having a mother who criticizes her eating/snacking was difficult and may be triggering to readers. Natalie tried out for the lead in the school play The Beauty & The Beast, but gets a lesser role. Campbell, a quiet transfer student, gets the lead. He's also on the swim team with Natalie.
Campbell has a secret, and it's not at all what I was thinking. It's not necessarily something shameful, although society looks down on young people in his situation. I absolutely hated how his parents treated him about it. There's an attraction between Natalie and Campbell. He's worried, though, how his secret would impact them dating. Once it's revealed, a lot makes sense. There's a lot of parental influence, which I appreciated as realistic in a YA book. There's kissing and making out but totally PG, although the conversations about sex and intimacy are very adult, as well as the consequences of being sexually active.
Like I said, I had a hard time with how Natalie was being bullied for her size by another student and how her mother dealt with eating / dieting. It was also really heartbreaking to see how Campbell's parents treated him. Natalie sees adults as "old" and not having a clue what teenagers are experiencing. As a 40- something adult, I can day I remember with clarity and horror my 17 year old self.
Overall, it was solid writing, although the ending felt a bit rushed. I would have liked to see them at the prom. Releases 5/21/24, 4/5☆.
This book is much deeper and more complex with adult like theme problems and life challenges than I anticipated. Not wanting to give anything away, I really liked Natalie as a strong female character. Natalie struggles somewhat with her size being teased, as she's quite tall and athletic due to swimming. She enjoys singing in school plays and has a supportive best friend. Having a mother who criticizes her eating/snacking was difficult and may be triggering to readers. Natalie tried out for the lead in the school play The Beauty & The Beast, but gets a lesser role. Campbell, a quiet transfer student, gets the lead. He's also on the swim team with Natalie.
Campbell has a secret, and it's not at all what I was thinking. It's not necessarily something shameful, although society looks down on young people in his situation. I absolutely hated how his parents treated him about it. There's an attraction between Natalie and Campbell. He's worried, though, how his secret would impact them dating. Once it's revealed, a lot makes sense. There's a lot of parental influence, which I appreciated as realistic in a YA book. There's kissing and making out but totally PG, although the conversations about sex and intimacy are very adult, as well as the consequences of being sexually active.
Like I said, I had a hard time with how Natalie was being bullied for her size by another student and how her mother dealt with eating / dieting. It was also really heartbreaking to see how Campbell's parents treated him. Natalie sees adults as "old" and not having a clue what teenagers are experiencing. As a 40- something adult, I can day I remember with clarity and horror my 17 year old self.
Overall, it was solid writing, although the ending felt a bit rushed. I would have liked to see them at the prom. Releases 5/21/24, 4/5☆.
April 24, 2024
Here’s Where She Meets Prince Charming by Kristin Wright is written from the perspective of a teenage girl named Natalie and centers on her romance with a mysterious student on her swim team and in the school play with her, as well as aspects of her high school experience.
I had mixed feelings about this book. The plot was entertaining for the most part. It was relatable in its portrayal of high schoolers, with many, like the protagonist, still needing to mature in their thoughts, words, and actions, and there was that sense of awkwardness and self-exploration. It was also nostalgic to read about and reflect on that stage of life, especially through the thought process of the protagonist.
However, some aspects detracted from my enjoyment, such as the insta-love, the overuse of language like ‘bruh’, and some characters portrayed as stereotypes. I expected it to be a more lighthearted read, but it tackled more complex issues, and it did so in a respectful way. Despite my criticisms, it was the author’s YA debut, so I think readers should definitely give it a chance.
I had mixed feelings about this book. The plot was entertaining for the most part. It was relatable in its portrayal of high schoolers, with many, like the protagonist, still needing to mature in their thoughts, words, and actions, and there was that sense of awkwardness and self-exploration. It was also nostalgic to read about and reflect on that stage of life, especially through the thought process of the protagonist.
However, some aspects detracted from my enjoyment, such as the insta-love, the overuse of language like ‘bruh’, and some characters portrayed as stereotypes. I expected it to be a more lighthearted read, but it tackled more complex issues, and it did so in a respectful way. Despite my criticisms, it was the author’s YA debut, so I think readers should definitely give it a chance.
June 12, 2024
This is everything I want in a teen book: swoony, down to earth, and immersive.
Too many YA books nowdays seem like they're written about adults who are "17" but this one really reconstructs the vivid feel of high school, and how your whole world is a circle of acquaintances and friends you've gone to school with forever, and also that precipice feeling of being about to graduate. Where everyone's pushing you to make huge decisions about your future, but what you're doing RIGHT NOW is excruciatingly important. I loved the swim team and theater kid atmosphere, and most of all, I was SO ADDICTED to finding out more about the wounded and mysterious Campbell!
His secret was so interesting and compelling and I loved the final reveal and how they handled it all. Natalie was a great character- lots of energy and I enjoyed that her faults were being nosy and curious. She didn't feel like a Standard YA Heroine in a lot of ways, and it was fun to read something different. I was rooting for her and Campbell so hard!
Too many YA books nowdays seem like they're written about adults who are "17" but this one really reconstructs the vivid feel of high school, and how your whole world is a circle of acquaintances and friends you've gone to school with forever, and also that precipice feeling of being about to graduate. Where everyone's pushing you to make huge decisions about your future, but what you're doing RIGHT NOW is excruciatingly important. I loved the swim team and theater kid atmosphere, and most of all, I was SO ADDICTED to finding out more about the wounded and mysterious Campbell!
His secret was so interesting and compelling and I loved the final reveal and how they handled it all. Natalie was a great character- lots of energy and I enjoyed that her faults were being nosy and curious. She didn't feel like a Standard YA Heroine in a lot of ways, and it was fun to read something different. I was rooting for her and Campbell so hard!
July 4, 2024
I just blew through this delightful book in a couple nights. If you’re a Disney fan, that title/lyric should sound familiar. Natalie has an ambitious academic life while strictly focusing on the swim team (hello potential scholarship) and on the fun that is high school musical theatre. She starts to get to know the hot and elusive Campbell (who crosses both those paths of her life), and her confidence increases while her priorities shift. I liked that the twist happened early enough to really dig into the story. And I liked that there was no preachiness or neat little happy ending - though it was certainly positive and promising. I wish there was a little more focus on the end of senior year activities as it suddenly sped up and left some things hanging, but that’s really my only nitpick. I don’t read a lot of YA, but I’m really glad I read this.
September 15, 2024
I was blown away by the depth of character in this novel. It's YA, and marketed as High School Musical + Beauty and the Beast. (It is both of those.) But it's also a perfect read for teens who feel they don't fit in, for anyone who is struggling to find their place.
Natalie is a strong young woman, with beauty and grace and character. Even when the adults in her life don't see it, her heart knows her value.
"Jerk kids are perks no matter what you look like."
She's an athlete, actress, and artist - who deserves the best of each of those worlds. And like most teens, she's carrying the burden of everyone's expectations. Not only that, but it seems like nobody wants to tell Natalie the truth.
Dealing with life, even while you're in a musical, is part of growing up. Natalie's a great character, and a great MC for any YA fan.
Natalie is a strong young woman, with beauty and grace and character. Even when the adults in her life don't see it, her heart knows her value.
"Jerk kids are perks no matter what you look like."
She's an athlete, actress, and artist - who deserves the best of each of those worlds. And like most teens, she's carrying the burden of everyone's expectations. Not only that, but it seems like nobody wants to tell Natalie the truth.
Dealing with life, even while you're in a musical, is part of growing up. Natalie's a great character, and a great MC for any YA fan.
December 11, 2024
Here’s Where She Meets Prince Charming had an interesting premise, but sadly, I couldn’t quite get into it. The story revolves around Natalie, a talented high school student with big dreams, and Campbell, a mysterious new kid. While the characters had potential, I struggled to connect with them. Natalie’s insecurities and Campbell’s secret just didn’t feel compelling, and I found their relationship lackluster.
The pacing was slow, and even though the book had moments where it seemed like it would pick up, it didn’t hold my attention. I was hoping for more depth and emotional investment, but unfortunately, I just didn’t feel it. Overall, it was a bit boring, and I didn’t find myself particularly invested in the story.
The pacing was slow, and even though the book had moments where it seemed like it would pick up, it didn’t hold my attention. I was hoping for more depth and emotional investment, but unfortunately, I just didn’t feel it. Overall, it was a bit boring, and I didn’t find myself particularly invested in the story.
April 24, 2024
Hi! It's Kristin Wright here, and if you're here, you've either read or are thinking about reading HWSMPC. Thank you! I was a theater girl in high school--yes, the one who always played the old ladies with sprayed silver hair. I wrote this book after I saw a girl at a swim meet who maybe didn't have a swimsuit model body but who jumped in that pool and dominated everyone else in the place. Natalie was born that day.
This is my first (but not my last!) foray into YA. I hope you like it!
This is my first (but not my last!) foray into YA. I hope you like it!
June 24, 2024
This romance was sweet and angsty. I called a few things that happened before they did, but I was still surprised how the story unfolded. I really enjoyed Campbell and Natalie's story. I loved Natalie standing up for herself against Finney in the last chapter. He had that awakening coming and, while the final getting together was abrupt, I loved how it ended. Thank you to Netgalley and Owl Hollow Press for the eARC of this novel. I really enjoyed reading it.
August 27, 2024
A smart and heart-felt take on a situation many teens (on both sides of this equation) must face. However, Natalie's ability to handle Campbell's secret once she discovers what it is, marks her as an above average teen girl. Meanwhile, the back and forth between Campbell and his ex-girlfriend are complicated, but seem quite real. Nice ending to what could have been a very messy situation. A fine book for libraries to add.
October 12, 2024
A sweet teen drama about high school kids trying to figure out life. Campbell became a father a young age and now has to navigate fatherhood while still in high school. Nat is trying to find her place in the world after high school and must determine what is truly important. This story was well written and gave light to what teens often face as their high school careers come to an end and adulthood starts. Well done!
December 28, 2024
This is a good book. The two main characters are Natalie and Campbell. They meet in high school, they have classes together and are on the swim team. During their senior year, they start dating. Campbell tells Natalie that he has a little boy. They both have issues but together they worked them out and fall in love.
May 23, 2024
This novel is a great YA romance with firm roots in real world issues faced during coming of age.
I enjoyed Wright's style of writing and look forward to checking out some of her works for adults. I thank Goodreads giveaways for the advance copy.
I enjoyed Wright's style of writing and look forward to checking out some of her works for adults. I thank Goodreads giveaways for the advance copy.
February 8, 2025
Fell in love with the characters and didn't want it to end!
July 6, 2024
Netflix’s “Tall Girl,” mixed with After-School-Special vibes
This is an engaging high school romance and coming of age story. I was thoroughly engrossed by the characters and the story line. I didn’t love the bits of profanity, but what I really disliked was the number of crass sexual references. I received an arc e-book from the author or publisher, through a Goodreads giveaway. All opinions are my own.
This is an engaging high school romance and coming of age story. I was thoroughly engrossed by the characters and the story line. I didn’t love the bits of profanity, but what I really disliked was the number of crass sexual references. I received an arc e-book from the author or publisher, through a Goodreads giveaway. All opinions are my own.
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