Nobody in Particular by Sophie Gonzales is a warm and emotionally layered sapphic romance set against the backdrop of an elite boarding school in the fictional country of Henland.
The story follows Danni, a music scholarship student who’s just arrived from abroad, and Rose, the nation’s princess burdened by public expectations and a mysterious scandal from her recent past.
From the start, the book gives off comforting Princess Diaries vibes with a sharp, contemporary twist. The dynamics between royalty and a regular student at a prestigious school create a rich setting for both drama and tenderness. Readers who enjoyed Young Royals or Red, White & Royal Blue will find familiar threads here, particularly in the way tradition clashes with identity and how young love pushes back against long-held expectations.
Danni is a standout protagonist. Her dedication to music isn’t just mentioned as background, it plays an active role in the story. We see her in lessons, rehearsing, trying to find her place. Rose, meanwhile, carries the weight of her title while navigating feelings she’s never been allowed to explore openly. The chemistry between them builds slowly and believably, moving from cautious connection to heartfelt romance.
The story also touches on deeper themes, such as the isolation of being new in a strange place, the pressure of social media, the lasting effects of bullying, and the complexities of identity and queerness in a society that isn’t always welcoming. There’s a fake dating subplot, too, but it’s not just for fun, it reveals emotional depth and adds tension as Rose tries to maintain her image for the sake of her family and country.
What makes this book shine is how much care it gives to the characters’ emotional journeys. It doesn’t shy away from the messy parts of growing up, making mistakes, or wanting something more than what you’ve been told you’re allowed to have.
Nobody in Particular is more than a romance. It’s about staying true to yourself, even when it’s hard. It’s about finding love in unexpected places and holding onto what matters most. This book, over a decade in the making, feels honest, heartfelt, and incredibly timely. It’s a strong 4-star read that reaffirms Sophie Gonzales as a writer whose stories are always worth showing up for.
