Review Detail

‘My Best Friend Prince Charming’ by Cindy Ray Hale tells the story of Ryker and Shannon, two best friends who care deeply about each other, but are too afraid of their relationship unraveling if either reveals the truth. While Ryker has known of his feelings for Shannon for some time, she’s been in a relationship with someone Ryker can’t stand. When their situations change, neither knows how to move forward in terms of their feelings, both old and developing, for each other.

When Ryker is discovered by a Hollywood movie director, he is cast as Prince Charming in a movie version of Cinderella. Shannon worries about what this might mean, including how they won’t be able to attend college together as they had always planned. While girls suddenly take notice of Ryker, Shannon finds herself somewhat jealous, but doesn’t feel it’s her place, while Ryker can’t take notice of anyone but Shannon.

They wonder if their feelings matter in the long run, and if being together supersedes all else. When another girl, the lead actress in the Cinderella movie, comes into the picture, Shannon figures that Ryker will move on, and quickly at that, with someone like her. Their uncertainty about each other seems very true to teenage life. There is also the fact that Ryker takes the time to analyze the decision of whether to take the acting job, even though not taking it means more of a struggle for himself and his family since he didn’t start out with much money. Many people would just take it without looking back, but it was nice to see a teenager take the time to consider and weigh the outcomes of taking on such responsibility.

A sweet and enjoyable story about inner turmoil, friendship, and love, ‘My Best Friend Prince Charming’ is perfect for lovers of YA contemporary romance.