*I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Title: Tokyo Ever After
Author: Emiko Jean
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Publication Date: May 18, 2021
ISBN: 9781250766601
Synopsis from Goodreads:
Izumi Tanaka has never really felt like she fit in—it isn’t easy being Japanese American in her small, mostly white, northern California town. Raised by a single mother, it’s always been Izumi—or Izzy, because “It’s easier this way”—and her mom against the world. But then Izzy discovers a clue to her previously unknown father’s identity… and he’s none other than the Crown Prince of Japan. Which means outspoken, irreverent Izzy is literally a princess.
In a whirlwind, Izzy travels to Japan to meet the father she never knew and discover the country she always dreamed of. But being a princess isn’t all ball gowns and tiaras. There are conniving cousins, a hungry press, a scowling but handsome bodyguard who just might be her soulmate, and thousands of years of tradition and customs to learn practically overnight.
Izzy soon finds herself caught between worlds, and between versions of herself—back home, she was never “American” enough, and in Japan, she must prove she’s “Japanese” enough. Will Izumi crumble under the weight of the crown, or will she live out her fairytale, happily ever after?
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Ahhhhh 5 stars for this book! It was exactly the book I’ve been looking for and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it for days afterwards. I keep searching for similar book recommendations so I can keep the good vibes going. Think Princess Diaries meets Japan. Izumi, by fluke, discovers she’s the daughter of the crown prince of Japan. In an instant, her life has changed completely. She’s never really felt like she’s belonged in America, but in finding out this new information about herself, she’s hoping she can find a place where she finally fits in. Tokyo Ever After is her whirlwind adventure to discover who she is and what she’s really made of. Plus, cute boys and heart-stopping romance moments coming your way!
This book set my heart aflutter! Emiko Jean knows how to really write beautiful and tangible relationships: friends, family, and romantic. This book put me in mind SO MUCH of To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before. It’s got that same warm and welcoming feeling with absolutely loveable characters, strong family ties, great friendships, and of course, where would we be without the drop-dead gorgeous heartthrob and the show-stopping courtship. GUSH. Everything about this book sings feel-good.
Honestly, I think I’m going to have to read this one again, right away. I’m in love. It’s the perfect YA for the summer season. Any young adult fic fans, you’ve got to get this one into your TBR!
Happy reading!
Worn Pages and Ink 