Thank you so much to Macmillan Children's Books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Goodreads Synopsis
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?
Review
The moment someone mentioned that this gave then The Princess Diaries vibes I knew I had to read it and let me just say this book did not disappoint. I loved everything about this book and ended up devouring it so quickly, reading into the early hours and only stopping because sleep was taking over.
Izumi, or Izzy, was a great character who is struggling to figure out where she belongs. After finding out her father is the Crown Prince of Japan, Izzy finds herself on a journey of self-discovery and it doesn't come easy. On top of that, she's having to learn new customs, new language and dealing with being in the spotlight. I love how she just took everything in her stride and tried to remain as positive as she could in such an awkward and tough situation.
Rich in Japanese culture I found myself transported and wanting to visit Japan even more now. I quickly found myself falling in love with Emiko Jean's writing and would honestly read a ton of books set in this universe.
Whilst I loved the enemies to lovers aspect of this book, the only thing that let this book down was the somewhat insta-love. I feel like I wanted a little bit more on the two being enemies but it didn't take too much away from the story and how fun it was!
Tokyo Ever After was such a heartfelt and fun YA romance that I recommend picking up if you love this genre!
Rating: 4/5 stars