This book is a somewhat entertaining modern-day re-telling of the story of Romeo and Juliet, complete with warring families, a look at Italian history, and, of course, love. The story alternates between long passages telling the ancient story and Julie's passionate relationship with Allesandro--Romeo. Her sister Janice joins her, and the danger ramps up as the sisters close in on the prize. They can't depend on any friend or foe is who he seems to be. Harrowing scenes play out in the bone-filled crypts and ancient waterways far beneath the city of Siena and in the Piazza del Campo, where the historic Palio (horserace) is run. I found the fictional old story fascinating, and I loved the romantic setting in Tuscany where memories are long and the events of six hundred years ago are still so alive in the buildings, the art, and the hearts of the people. This novel also has an intriguing mystery and adventure component that pulls you into that beautiful and ancient world, Siena, Italy. It leaves you wondering and questioning and hanging on every written word up until the very end. ( )

Sounded good, it wasnt.

I like this pretty well. Some of it didn't hold together very well. The romance read a bit like a bodice buster. Not my thing. I enjoyed reading about the "actual" Romeo and Juliet" from a historical perspective. I picked this book after hearing the author interviewed on Bob Edwards. I'm glad I read it, but not a favorite. ( )

I enjoyed this book for the most part. But I found the main character Julie a bit whiny and stupid. Somethings were so clear, and she always missed them. This is a bit of the problem with some first person mystery novels. On the whole it was really cute and fun. ( )

History. Shakespeare. Genealogy. Italy. Understated Romance. Not much more I could ask for out of a book! The heroine was frustratingly dim-witted once in a while, but overall, I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be seeking out other Fortier works. ( )