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Still Star-Crossed
Now an ABC TV show from producer Shonda Rhimes! Discover what happened after the tragic deaths of Romeo and Juliet, as mysterious figures in Verona are determined to reignite the feud between the Montagues and the Capulets.In fair Verona, enemies still walk the streets. Two news hearts. Same two families. The fight to the altar is about to happen. All. Over. Again. This homage to the classic Shakespearean tale of Romeo and Juliet will have readers pining for a star-crossed love of their very own. “A recipe for escapist television that Shondaland has perfected.” —The Hollywood Reporter on the TV adaptation
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2013
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November 11, 2018
Rating ~4-4.5
In fair Verona, enemies still walk the streets. Two news hearts. Same two families.
I fell fast and hard for this book. It is an absolute delight!
Let me start by saying I do not like Romeo and Juliet, I detest it really. Perhaps it is because I read it in high school, or I was not a fan of Shakespearean language at the time, or perhaps it was because I found the so called "great love story" of Romeo and Juliet utterly ridiculous and eye-rolling. Honestly, even thinking of their story now just annoys me to no end. Fortunately, for me I am not stuck with that wretched pair and their wantonness again.
This is the story of Benvolio and Rosaline. Romeo's and Juliet's much more sensible, and more entertaining, cousins. Beautifully written, well-paced and engaging, this book is a delightful gem.
Rosaline is an intelligent, reasonable, caring, beautiful, witty young woman. I liked her nearly from the moment she was introduced. She is not engrossed in the endless drama that is her Capulet family. Technically, if following her father's house, she is House of Tirmino. But she does have Capulet blood, though she'd readily relinquish the name. Unlike Juliet, Rosaline is given depth, character, we as readers get to know her, understand her and her relationships with those her around her. Which is why I care so much more for her than I ever did Juliet. Because she feels real.
Benvolio is a strong, wise, patient, mild-mannered, handsome, witty young man. Sound a bit familiar? While I should hope so because he and Rosaline are far more similar than they are different. And both truly are foils to their overly-rash kin. Benvolio is a honorable gentlemen, he protects and defends what is right even against his own kinsmen. He is funny and clever, and it doesn't take much to fall for his character. Who honestly, makes Romeo look like childish, love-sick fool. More so than he already did. Again, I found myself caring about Benvolio because he actually had some character. So thank you Benvolio for not being a hopelessly ridiculous romantic to the point that it blinded you beyond reason.
Livia is Rosaline's beautiful, gentle, flirty younger sister. She does not much for the plot, but plays a huge role in the end. Thank goodness, she was not at naive as I thought she'd be. She proved that even those in love do not have to be blind to the truth. That even in love you must recognize right from wrong. So bless you Livia for not being the naive fool I thought you would be.
The story picks up not too long after the death's of Romeo and Juliet. The tensions between their families still rather unchecked, despite the Prince's efforts in ensuring that both Houses promised peace. But naturally, when hated runs as deep as with the Montagues and the Capulets you know that is next to impossible. So the Prince hatches another plan in the hopes of saving his city from near civil war. He decides to make the House of Montague and the House of Capulet one.
But of course Rosaline with Benvolio's engagement does not go smoothly. And the bodies to continue to pile up. The two then put aside their differences and set out to find out who been stirring the bad blood between their families, all while growing closer in the process. I must say it took me a while to figure it out, which is good because I quite enjoy a good mystery. Anyways, things take a turn for the worst when Benvolio is framed for murder and Rosaline chooses to flee the city with him in the hopes of clearing his name. What ensues is an life-changing adventure, an entertaining mystery, and a subtle love story.
Together these two save their city from the brink of war, and I could not admire them more for it.
This was just a quick and pleasant read. Even for those who do not like Romeo and Juliet, like myself. I say give this a try. It is lovely.
In fair Verona, enemies still walk the streets. Two news hearts. Same two families.
I fell fast and hard for this book. It is an absolute delight!
Let me start by saying I do not like Romeo and Juliet, I detest it really. Perhaps it is because I read it in high school, or I was not a fan of Shakespearean language at the time, or perhaps it was because I found the so called "great love story" of Romeo and Juliet utterly ridiculous and eye-rolling. Honestly, even thinking of their story now just annoys me to no end. Fortunately, for me I am not stuck with that wretched pair and their wantonness again.
This is the story of Benvolio and Rosaline. Romeo's and Juliet's much more sensible, and more entertaining, cousins. Beautifully written, well-paced and engaging, this book is a delightful gem.
Rosaline is an intelligent, reasonable, caring, beautiful, witty young woman. I liked her nearly from the moment she was introduced. She is not engrossed in the endless drama that is her Capulet family. Technically, if following her father's house, she is House of Tirmino. But she does have Capulet blood, though she'd readily relinquish the name. Unlike Juliet, Rosaline is given depth, character, we as readers get to know her, understand her and her relationships with those her around her. Which is why I care so much more for her than I ever did Juliet. Because she feels real.
Benvolio is a strong, wise, patient, mild-mannered, handsome, witty young man. Sound a bit familiar? While I should hope so because he and Rosaline are far more similar than they are different. And both truly are foils to their overly-rash kin. Benvolio is a honorable gentlemen, he protects and defends what is right even against his own kinsmen. He is funny and clever, and it doesn't take much to fall for his character. Who honestly, makes Romeo look like childish, love-sick fool. More so than he already did. Again, I found myself caring about Benvolio because he actually had some character. So thank you Benvolio for not being a hopelessly ridiculous romantic to the point that it blinded you beyond reason.
Livia is Rosaline's beautiful, gentle, flirty younger sister. She does not much for the plot, but plays a huge role in the end. Thank goodness, she was not at naive as I thought she'd be. She proved that even those in love do not have to be blind to the truth. That even in love you must recognize right from wrong. So bless you Livia for not being the naive fool I thought you would be.
The story picks up not too long after the death's of Romeo and Juliet. The tensions between their families still rather unchecked, despite the Prince's efforts in ensuring that both Houses promised peace. But naturally, when hated runs as deep as with the Montagues and the Capulets you know that is next to impossible. So the Prince hatches another plan in the hopes of saving his city from near civil war. He decides to make the House of Montague and the House of Capulet one.
But of course Rosaline with Benvolio's engagement does not go smoothly. And the bodies to continue to pile up. The two then put aside their differences and set out to find out who been stirring the bad blood between their families, all while growing closer in the process. I must say it took me a while to figure it out, which is good because I quite enjoy a good mystery. Anyways, things take a turn for the worst when Benvolio is framed for murder and Rosaline chooses to flee the city with him in the hopes of clearing his name. What ensues is an life-changing adventure, an entertaining mystery, and a subtle love story.
Together these two save their city from the brink of war, and I could not admire them more for it.
This was just a quick and pleasant read. Even for those who do not like Romeo and Juliet, like myself. I say give this a try. It is lovely.
July 30, 2013
I picked up this book thinking that I'd give it a try and if it wasn't very good, I didn't have to finish it. But once I started, I couldn't put it down!
This book takes place a few weeks after the events of "Romeo and Juliet" - Houses Montague and Capulet have bee formally ordered to make peace, but someone keeps stirring the feud between both families. In a last-ditch attempt to stop the fighting, Prince Escalus orders Rosaline (who is a distant cousin of Juliet and the girl Romeo first fell in love with) and Benvolio (one of Romeo's friends) to get married. That's the plotline that the book jacket summary gives - but there is a lot more to this story than just that (but I don't want to spoil it because it's really, really, really good!)
Rosaline doesn't have any "screen time" (as it were) in "Romeo and Juliet," which is probably why Melinda Taub could take give her so much more character and backstory. Same with Benvolio (even though he actually is in the original play). I loved that Taub kept the Shakespearean-style dialogue, but was able to integrate it in a narrative that flows well for modern readers. And there is so much more consideration given to what's at stake within Verona and how important it is that these two Houses stop trying to kill each other in the streets. Neither House is quite willing to forgive the other, even without the mysterious figure roaming around trying to frame members of both families of vandalism and murder against the other. It takes the original play and gives it so much more depth and it's a fantastic follow-up!
Also - there are some mentions of characters in other Shakespeare plays like "Much Ado About Nothing" and "Taming of the Shrew." It kind of makes me hope that Melinda Taub writes other books about Shakespeare's characters (and if she already has - well, I'll have to go check and find out) and makes an entire world out of this because that would be amazing!
Anyway - "Still Star-Crossed" - loved it! (even if the title is a little clunky. Well, you can't have everything). Highly recommended!
This book takes place a few weeks after the events of "Romeo and Juliet" - Houses Montague and Capulet have bee formally ordered to make peace, but someone keeps stirring the feud between both families. In a last-ditch attempt to stop the fighting, Prince Escalus orders Rosaline (who is a distant cousin of Juliet and the girl Romeo first fell in love with) and Benvolio (one of Romeo's friends) to get married. That's the plotline that the book jacket summary gives - but there is a lot more to this story than just that (but I don't want to spoil it because it's really, really, really good!)
Rosaline doesn't have any "screen time" (as it were) in "Romeo and Juliet," which is probably why Melinda Taub could take give her so much more character and backstory. Same with Benvolio (even though he actually is in the original play). I loved that Taub kept the Shakespearean-style dialogue, but was able to integrate it in a narrative that flows well for modern readers. And there is so much more consideration given to what's at stake within Verona and how important it is that these two Houses stop trying to kill each other in the streets. Neither House is quite willing to forgive the other, even without the mysterious figure roaming around trying to frame members of both families of vandalism and murder against the other. It takes the original play and gives it so much more depth and it's a fantastic follow-up!
Also - there are some mentions of characters in other Shakespeare plays like "Much Ado About Nothing" and "Taming of the Shrew." It kind of makes me hope that Melinda Taub writes other books about Shakespeare's characters (and if she already has - well, I'll have to go check and find out) and makes an entire world out of this because that would be amazing!
Anyway - "Still Star-Crossed" - loved it! (even if the title is a little clunky. Well, you can't have everything). Highly recommended!
April 6, 2020
Romeo y Julieta han muerto, sus familias se han batido en duelo durante años y por orden del príncipe Escalo y por la paz de Verona deben poner fin a todos estos años de enfrentamiento. Para ello el príncipe ordena a Rosalina, de los Capuleto y a Benvolio Montesco a contraer matrimonio.
Sin embargo, las familias siguen enfrentada y ambos se ven como enemigos.
Me ha encantado, me ha gustado más de lo que pensaba, las grandes familias de Verona enfrentadas y obligadas a poner fin a sus reyertas. No será tan fácil que llegue la paz. Nos encontramos con una trama de amor, lealtad y venganza, unidas por un gran misterio.
Sin embargo, las familias siguen enfrentada y ambos se ven como enemigos.
Me ha encantado, me ha gustado más de lo que pensaba, las grandes familias de Verona enfrentadas y obligadas a poner fin a sus reyertas. No será tan fácil que llegue la paz. Nos encontramos con una trama de amor, lealtad y venganza, unidas por un gran misterio.
September 18, 2013
Cover Blurb: Yes or No? I am not a big fan of the cover at all - it, in fact, almost put me off reading the book altogether. It screams romance and girly read and all those things that I really don't like. And while Romeo and Juliet isn't my favorite Shakespeare play, I was curious to see what a "what happened afterward" story would be like. So I ignored the cover and gave it a try.
Characters: I at first didn't care about anyone. As a matter of principle, I tend to not have an opinion either way about the characters of Romeo and Juliet, no matter who they are. So it was that when I first met Rosaline, I shrugged and said, "Eh, whatever." But it really didn't take long for Rosaline's spunky personality to win me over. She and her sister, Livia, have a strong-willed character that is both period appropriate and refreshing in a story that is made rather famous for its flighty females. Benvolio, too, started off as someone I really didn't care all that much about. The most sensible Montague youth in Verona, he showed enough potential as a character that I was willing to give him a bit more of a chance than Rosaline (I'm usually harder on female characters), but I still didn't really care about him. And like Rosaline, he grew on my affections very rapidly. Sensible and honorable, he was perhaps my most favorite male character in the entire story. On the flip side, Escalus began as someone I rather liked and then was less likable as the story progressed. At the same time, I appreciated his sticky situation. The ruler of Verona, Escalus is desperately trying to keep the Montagues and Capulets at peace with each other. He's willing to use desperate measures if it calls for it. I knew Escalus didn't want to, but as he continued to deal with Rosaline harshly and with deceit and manipulation, I liked him less and less. But then he redeems himself in the end, and I went back to liking him.
The Romance: Yes, there is a love triangle. Rosaline and Benvolio begin the story by hating each other. Their mutual dislike is perhaps a bit petty, as they each lay blame on the other for things that really weren't their fault, but it is also understandable. Benvolio has lost his two best friends and Rosaline is mourning her young cousin's death. But circumstances force them to work together, and they are both united in the fact that neither wants to marry the other. Besides, Rosaline could never Benvolio even if things were different between their families, for her heart belongs completely to Escalus. But as romance usually goes in stories like this, the more Rosaline gets to know Benvolio, the more she realizes that he truly is someone she could love. Especially given the cruel lies Escalus has recently used against Rosaline for his own ends. Surprisingly, though, the love triangle is not nearly as prominent or as annoying as one might think. Benvolio and Escalus are both very likable young men. Escalus has his up-and-down moments, but he really is a good person in the end. Rosaline is torn between the two young men, but she doesn't spend a lot of time bellyaching over it. There are far more important matters to attend; romance can wait. And Benvolio and Rosaline's attraction is gradual and feels genuine and deep, unlike many romances, so I actually became emotionally invested in what happened to them. In short, this is a love triangle that actually works.
Plot: With the deaths of young Romeo and Juliet, the Montagues and Capulets have promised their lord, Escalus, that they will set aside their blood feud. But someone is trying to stir up trouble between them again, and the truce will not last long. In an attempt to solidify it, Escalus forces his childhood friend and Juliet's cousin Rosaline of the Capulets to marry Benvolio of the Montagues, Romeo's boyhood friend. He prays that such a union will bring the two families together at last and see peace restored to Verona. But neither Rosaline nor Benvolio wants the marriage to take place. Before Juliet, Romeo pined for Rosaline, who spurned his attentions. Stricken with grief over his friend's death, Benvolio is convinced that if Rosaline had not turned Romeo away, the two tragic deaths would never have happened. And Rosaline has renounced marriage and wishes to join a convent, for her heart already belongs to another - a man she can never have due to her low station in life. United in their determination to break off their engagement, Rosaline and Benvolio agree to work together to discover who it is that is trying to stir up trouble between the Montagues and Capulets. But they are running out of time, as a masked man stalks the streets killing Montague and Capulet alike. Verona is once more on the verge of war, and it is up to them to fix it. Part of what makes Still Star-Crossed such a better story than Romeo and Juliet is it has a purpose; it has a real plot. Part mystery, part espionage, part political intrigue, this imaging of "what happened afterward" had my attention within 30 pages. I admit that at first I wasn't all that interested, simply because it had to do with Romeo and Juliet. But after that, I was very intrigued, as more twists were revealed and I became more and more invested in what happened to Rosaline and Benvolio. There were moments of frustration, when characters would take one step forward towards solving the mystery, and then two steps back, but it was a good kind of frustration. The villains are relatively easy to figure out after a while, but it is easy to see why the protagonists wouldn't see it as soon as the Reader does. It's, all in all, a great alternative for those who don't want to read Romeo and Juliet.
Believability: The Author notes that she is writing about Shakespeare's Italy, and is therefore not necessarily historically accurate the geography may not be realistic. I can accept that, especially since she acknowledged it in her note.
Writing Style: Third person, past tense. I highly commend the Author for her astounding effort to copy Shakespeare's style while still making the story easy for the everyday Reader to understand. I was extremely impressed in this area. I also really enjoyed her little hidden references to Hamlet and Much Ado About Nothing. I challenge the Reader to find them.
Content: None.
Conclusion: When circumstances go horribly wrong for Benvolio and he is forced to flee, he and Rosaline discover that whoever is behind the attacks against the Montagues and Capulets has far greater ambitions than they initially thought. And if they don't act fast, it will be too late for Verona - and Escalus. The climax stays true to Romeo and Juliet in that it has a tragic end. But because it is also better than said play, the tragedy isn't pointless and just there for tragedy's sake. It is the sort of tragedy I enjoy: it creates a very bittersweet end, where things overall conclude very well, but with a bit of a dark shadow dampening it. I wasn't disappointed at all, and was downright impressed with this book.
Recommended Audience: Girl-read, fifteen-and-up, great for fans of Romeo and Juliet, as well as Readers who don't care for Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers story. I would recommend this to any of my anti-Romeo and Juliet friends in a heartbeat.
Characters: I at first didn't care about anyone. As a matter of principle, I tend to not have an opinion either way about the characters of Romeo and Juliet, no matter who they are. So it was that when I first met Rosaline, I shrugged and said, "Eh, whatever." But it really didn't take long for Rosaline's spunky personality to win me over. She and her sister, Livia, have a strong-willed character that is both period appropriate and refreshing in a story that is made rather famous for its flighty females. Benvolio, too, started off as someone I really didn't care all that much about. The most sensible Montague youth in Verona, he showed enough potential as a character that I was willing to give him a bit more of a chance than Rosaline (I'm usually harder on female characters), but I still didn't really care about him. And like Rosaline, he grew on my affections very rapidly. Sensible and honorable, he was perhaps my most favorite male character in the entire story. On the flip side, Escalus began as someone I rather liked and then was less likable as the story progressed. At the same time, I appreciated his sticky situation. The ruler of Verona, Escalus is desperately trying to keep the Montagues and Capulets at peace with each other. He's willing to use desperate measures if it calls for it. I knew Escalus didn't want to, but as he continued to deal with Rosaline harshly and with deceit and manipulation, I liked him less and less. But then he redeems himself in the end, and I went back to liking him.
The Romance: Yes, there is a love triangle. Rosaline and Benvolio begin the story by hating each other. Their mutual dislike is perhaps a bit petty, as they each lay blame on the other for things that really weren't their fault, but it is also understandable. Benvolio has lost his two best friends and Rosaline is mourning her young cousin's death. But circumstances force them to work together, and they are both united in the fact that neither wants to marry the other. Besides, Rosaline could never Benvolio even if things were different between their families, for her heart belongs completely to Escalus. But as romance usually goes in stories like this, the more Rosaline gets to know Benvolio, the more she realizes that he truly is someone she could love. Especially given the cruel lies Escalus has recently used against Rosaline for his own ends. Surprisingly, though, the love triangle is not nearly as prominent or as annoying as one might think. Benvolio and Escalus are both very likable young men. Escalus has his up-and-down moments, but he really is a good person in the end. Rosaline is torn between the two young men, but she doesn't spend a lot of time bellyaching over it. There are far more important matters to attend; romance can wait. And Benvolio and Rosaline's attraction is gradual and feels genuine and deep, unlike many romances, so I actually became emotionally invested in what happened to them. In short, this is a love triangle that actually works.
Plot: With the deaths of young Romeo and Juliet, the Montagues and Capulets have promised their lord, Escalus, that they will set aside their blood feud. But someone is trying to stir up trouble between them again, and the truce will not last long. In an attempt to solidify it, Escalus forces his childhood friend and Juliet's cousin Rosaline of the Capulets to marry Benvolio of the Montagues, Romeo's boyhood friend. He prays that such a union will bring the two families together at last and see peace restored to Verona. But neither Rosaline nor Benvolio wants the marriage to take place. Before Juliet, Romeo pined for Rosaline, who spurned his attentions. Stricken with grief over his friend's death, Benvolio is convinced that if Rosaline had not turned Romeo away, the two tragic deaths would never have happened. And Rosaline has renounced marriage and wishes to join a convent, for her heart already belongs to another - a man she can never have due to her low station in life. United in their determination to break off their engagement, Rosaline and Benvolio agree to work together to discover who it is that is trying to stir up trouble between the Montagues and Capulets. But they are running out of time, as a masked man stalks the streets killing Montague and Capulet alike. Verona is once more on the verge of war, and it is up to them to fix it. Part of what makes Still Star-Crossed such a better story than Romeo and Juliet is it has a purpose; it has a real plot. Part mystery, part espionage, part political intrigue, this imaging of "what happened afterward" had my attention within 30 pages. I admit that at first I wasn't all that interested, simply because it had to do with Romeo and Juliet. But after that, I was very intrigued, as more twists were revealed and I became more and more invested in what happened to Rosaline and Benvolio. There were moments of frustration, when characters would take one step forward towards solving the mystery, and then two steps back, but it was a good kind of frustration. The villains are relatively easy to figure out after a while, but it is easy to see why the protagonists wouldn't see it as soon as the Reader does. It's, all in all, a great alternative for those who don't want to read Romeo and Juliet.
Believability: The Author notes that she is writing about Shakespeare's Italy, and is therefore not necessarily historically accurate the geography may not be realistic. I can accept that, especially since she acknowledged it in her note.
Writing Style: Third person, past tense. I highly commend the Author for her astounding effort to copy Shakespeare's style while still making the story easy for the everyday Reader to understand. I was extremely impressed in this area. I also really enjoyed her little hidden references to Hamlet and Much Ado About Nothing. I challenge the Reader to find them.
Content: None.
Conclusion: When circumstances go horribly wrong for Benvolio and he is forced to flee, he and Rosaline discover that whoever is behind the attacks against the Montagues and Capulets has far greater ambitions than they initially thought. And if they don't act fast, it will be too late for Verona - and Escalus. The climax stays true to Romeo and Juliet in that it has a tragic end. But because it is also better than said play, the tragedy isn't pointless and just there for tragedy's sake. It is the sort of tragedy I enjoy: it creates a very bittersweet end, where things overall conclude very well, but with a bit of a dark shadow dampening it. I wasn't disappointed at all, and was downright impressed with this book.
Recommended Audience: Girl-read, fifteen-and-up, great for fans of Romeo and Juliet, as well as Readers who don't care for Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers story. I would recommend this to any of my anti-Romeo and Juliet friends in a heartbeat.
November 30, 2020
So yes indeed, I do feel more than a trifle conflicted with regard to Melinda Taub’s Romeo and Juliet sequel, with her 2013 young adult novel Still Star-Crossed. For while the author’s presented premise of the Capulets and the Montagues still constantly fighting and killing one another in the streets of Verona even after the agreed to truce at the end of Romeo and Juliet is interesting and I have also found both Rosaline and Benvolio delightfully rendered main protagonists (depicted as full of spunk, full of intelligence and life and for a novel set in Renaissance Italy, Still Star-Crossed also sure does read realistically and feel historically authentic enough), the strong and engaging beginning of Still Star-Crossed does in my opinion rather fizzle out pretty quickly. Because albeit that Rosaline and Benvolio remain an engaging couple throughout Melinda Taub’s text (and I do appreciate how they slowly learn to love one another even if I do find the entire concept of Prince Escalus of Verona forcing a Capulet and Montague marriage and not giving either Benvolio or Rosaline any choice or say in the matter uncomfortable even if likely something totally historically accurate), the entire scenario of Paris still being alive and plotting against everyone with Lady Capulet, I have found this all a bit unbelievable, tedious and monotonous and not really all that personally appealing and my reading interest retaining, nothing inappropriate for teenaged readers of course, but just not a story that after the very strong and delightfully readable start, I have really enjoyed reading all that much and all that lastingly.
And therefore, even though I do find much that is enjoyable and even a bit wonderful with regard to Still Star-Crossed (from Melinda Taub’s occasional but regular Shakespearean writing style to the fact that the two main protagonists have most definitely been depicted with nuance, depth and even sweet tenderness), the fact of the matter that I do seem to find much of the storyline in Still Star-Crossed and especially the to be solved mystery (and the rather one-sided villains) more than bit dragging and boring (at least to and for me), I can and will only consider three stars for Still Star-Crossed and as such also more than a bit of a personal disappointment. And finally, and furthermore, I also do feel a bit strange and annoyed with regard to the book cover image, since in my opinion, Rosaline looks rather too potentially slutty for no reason and I in fact totally tend to question exactly why such an image has been used (as it certainly seems that either author Melinda Taub or her publisher somehow want to use sexuality or the potential of this to sell, to make Still Star-Crossed appealing to and for young adult readers).
And therefore, even though I do find much that is enjoyable and even a bit wonderful with regard to Still Star-Crossed (from Melinda Taub’s occasional but regular Shakespearean writing style to the fact that the two main protagonists have most definitely been depicted with nuance, depth and even sweet tenderness), the fact of the matter that I do seem to find much of the storyline in Still Star-Crossed and especially the to be solved mystery (and the rather one-sided villains) more than bit dragging and boring (at least to and for me), I can and will only consider three stars for Still Star-Crossed and as such also more than a bit of a personal disappointment. And finally, and furthermore, I also do feel a bit strange and annoyed with regard to the book cover image, since in my opinion, Rosaline looks rather too potentially slutty for no reason and I in fact totally tend to question exactly why such an image has been used (as it certainly seems that either author Melinda Taub or her publisher somehow want to use sexuality or the potential of this to sell, to make Still Star-Crossed appealing to and for young adult readers).
March 26, 2017
Still star-crossed es uno de esos libros que a simple vista no llaman la atención. Puede ser porque su portada es un poco "sosa" o que la sinopsis hablé más de una relación impuesta que de lo que en verdad abunda en esta novela.
Misterio, drama, acción y un poco de romance es lo que van a encontrar en esta novela. A esto sumenle una protagonista independiente y fuerte (una de mis favoritas por ahora) y giros en la historia.
Melinda Taub supo sacarle el jugo a Romeo & Julieta y hacer de los personajes y de la trama algo mucho más profundo y retorcido. Otro punto a favor de la autora es la utilización del lenguaje y como, a pesar de este, nunca se me hizo tedioso.
Still star-crossed definitivamente estará en mi top de lecturas de este año.
Misterio, drama, acción y un poco de romance es lo que van a encontrar en esta novela. A esto sumenle una protagonista independiente y fuerte (una de mis favoritas por ahora) y giros en la historia.
Melinda Taub supo sacarle el jugo a Romeo & Julieta y hacer de los personajes y de la trama algo mucho más profundo y retorcido. Otro punto a favor de la autora es la utilización del lenguaje y como, a pesar de este, nunca se me hizo tedioso.
Still star-crossed definitivamente estará en mi top de lecturas de este año.
August 28, 2019
RESEÑA COMPLETA: https://letraslibrosymas.blogspot.com...
Primero comentaros que este libro es como una continuación de Romeo y Julieta de Shakespeare, no he leído aún la obra original -es uno de mis eternos pendientes- pero conozco más o menos la historia, así que me daba mucha curiosidad este libro y aunque al principio me resultó un poco lioso porque había muchos nombres y tenía que ponerme en situación al cabo de unas treinta páginas me metí de lleno en esta épica historia de traiciones e intrigas. Está dividido en 5 partes, sin capítulos y solo cuenta con una pequeña ilustración que sirve como separación para cuando se cambia de personaje, lo que no me ha gustado mucho porque se me hacía más cuesta arriba al no poder parar con el final de los capítulos, pero es un mal menor.
La prosa de la autora es sobresaliente, ha conseguido un lenguaje clásico como el empleado en Romeo y Julieta pero modernizándolo un poco para que no resulte cargante. Además, tengo que destacar la ambientación que es una delicia -es una de las cosas con las que más he disfrutado-, los diálogos tan ingeniosos y como ha ido dosificando las sorpresas a lo largo de la trama para cuando el ritmo parece que decae te cae una bomba que te deja con la boca abierta y manteniendo al lector en tensión y pegado a sus páginas. Porque sí que tiene partes más densas que te sacan de la historia en algunos momentos y cosas un poco extrañas, pero mirándolo todo en conjunto la autora ha creado una historia sólida y muy buena que compensa esas pequeñas cositas.
Traiciones, venganzas y amor en una novela con una gran ambientación, una prosa que se adapta al género original y giros argumentales impactantes.
Primero comentaros que este libro es como una continuación de Romeo y Julieta de Shakespeare, no he leído aún la obra original -es uno de mis eternos pendientes- pero conozco más o menos la historia, así que me daba mucha curiosidad este libro y aunque al principio me resultó un poco lioso porque había muchos nombres y tenía que ponerme en situación al cabo de unas treinta páginas me metí de lleno en esta épica historia de traiciones e intrigas. Está dividido en 5 partes, sin capítulos y solo cuenta con una pequeña ilustración que sirve como separación para cuando se cambia de personaje, lo que no me ha gustado mucho porque se me hacía más cuesta arriba al no poder parar con el final de los capítulos, pero es un mal menor.
La prosa de la autora es sobresaliente, ha conseguido un lenguaje clásico como el empleado en Romeo y Julieta pero modernizándolo un poco para que no resulte cargante. Además, tengo que destacar la ambientación que es una delicia -es una de las cosas con las que más he disfrutado-, los diálogos tan ingeniosos y como ha ido dosificando las sorpresas a lo largo de la trama para cuando el ritmo parece que decae te cae una bomba que te deja con la boca abierta y manteniendo al lector en tensión y pegado a sus páginas. Porque sí que tiene partes más densas que te sacan de la historia en algunos momentos y cosas un poco extrañas, pero mirándolo todo en conjunto la autora ha creado una historia sólida y muy buena que compensa esas pequeñas cositas.
Traiciones, venganzas y amor en una novela con una gran ambientación, una prosa que se adapta al género original y giros argumentales impactantes.
July 13, 2013
Full disclosure: I knew Melinda when I was about 17 and she was about 13. She was a pretty cool 13-year-old, but since it's been a decade and a half since I last saw her, I feel like I can be impartial about this book.
And my impartial opinion is: I love this book. Love it to pieces. 4.75 stars, for me.
Still Star-Crossed is the sequel to Romeo and Juliet, and tells what happened after the Capulets and the Montagues swore to the Prince that their deadly feud died with their children. Slight spoiler alert: It didn't go great. "If generations could not cure their ire, will a summer of murder really do so?" asks the Prince.
The heroine of Still Star-Crossed is Rosaline, the girl Romeo first lost his heart to, the girl who turned him down. The girl now wracked with guilt that had she accepted him, both he and her cousin Juliet might still be alive. Not to worry, though; she does not spend her time languishing. Because there is plenty that she is called on to do to save Verona from further bloodshed.
Including marrying Benvolio Montague, Romeo's dear friend, at the order of her beloved prince, Escalus. Marry the man who holds her to blame for the death of his friends, a Montague brought up to hate her as a Capulet descendant? Not terribly appealing. But don't worry; she has a plan....
I don't claim to be a Shakespearean scholar, but I've read quite a few of his plays and enjoy them very much. Melinda made the choice to keep the dialogue true to the way his characters spoke in his plays, using "thee" and "thou." I had no trouble with this, and I think that if you give yourself a chapter or two, you won't have a problem either. I loved the evocative language, and I think it keeps you in the right headspace.
Melinda weaves in characters and references from other Shakespeare plays, but never overdoes it. Instead, they are like delightful Easter eggs, visible only if you're looking for them. She takes CERTAIN LIBERTIES with the characters you may be familiar with from your freshman English class, but it's all to the good.
Rosaline, her sister Livia, Benvolio and Prince Escalus are wonderful characters, and I was happy to see the old crew as well. Friar Laurence! Dear, sweet, stupid Nurse! It's been so long. And the scene with a gravedigger made me chortle with glee.
Still not sold on Still Star-Crossed? Let's ask the grandfather from The Princess Bride. What can we expect from this book, Grandpa? Has it got any sports in it?
"Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, [no] giants, [no] monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles..." All this and more.
ETA: Sorry, autocorrect changed the spelling on me. It's Rosaline.
And my impartial opinion is: I love this book. Love it to pieces. 4.75 stars, for me.
Still Star-Crossed is the sequel to Romeo and Juliet, and tells what happened after the Capulets and the Montagues swore to the Prince that their deadly feud died with their children. Slight spoiler alert: It didn't go great. "If generations could not cure their ire, will a summer of murder really do so?" asks the Prince.
The heroine of Still Star-Crossed is Rosaline, the girl Romeo first lost his heart to, the girl who turned him down. The girl now wracked with guilt that had she accepted him, both he and her cousin Juliet might still be alive. Not to worry, though; she does not spend her time languishing. Because there is plenty that she is called on to do to save Verona from further bloodshed.
Including marrying Benvolio Montague, Romeo's dear friend, at the order of her beloved prince, Escalus. Marry the man who holds her to blame for the death of his friends, a Montague brought up to hate her as a Capulet descendant? Not terribly appealing. But don't worry; she has a plan....
I don't claim to be a Shakespearean scholar, but I've read quite a few of his plays and enjoy them very much. Melinda made the choice to keep the dialogue true to the way his characters spoke in his plays, using "thee" and "thou." I had no trouble with this, and I think that if you give yourself a chapter or two, you won't have a problem either. I loved the evocative language, and I think it keeps you in the right headspace.
Melinda weaves in characters and references from other Shakespeare plays, but never overdoes it. Instead, they are like delightful Easter eggs, visible only if you're looking for them. She takes CERTAIN LIBERTIES with the characters you may be familiar with from your freshman English class, but it's all to the good.
Rosaline, her sister Livia, Benvolio and Prince Escalus are wonderful characters, and I was happy to see the old crew as well. Friar Laurence! Dear, sweet, stupid Nurse! It's been so long. And the scene with a gravedigger made me chortle with glee.
Still not sold on Still Star-Crossed? Let's ask the grandfather from The Princess Bride. What can we expect from this book, Grandpa? Has it got any sports in it?
"Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, [no] giants, [no] monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles..." All this and more.
ETA: Sorry, autocorrect changed the spelling on me. It's Rosaline.
June 20, 2017
Het is een goed boek maar ik vond het een beetje langdradig. Het verhaal is origineel en aangenaam om te lezen, maar het duurde gewoon te lang voor er een einde aan kwam. Ik heb me door sommige stukjes moeten worstelen, maar andere lazen dan weer razend snel. Over het algemeen vond ik het een goed en speciaal boek, maar daar blijft het bij.
April 17, 2017
wat een verrukkelijk boek! vol intrige, spanning, romantiek, plotwendingen en perfect taalgebruik!
July 13, 2018
Objetivamente 4, por la historia, la redacción, la investigación de la época y blablabla, pero le daré 3.5. Tengo una buena razón para ello y no sólo es que mi kokoro se rompió con ese final y, para mi, no existe nada después de la pagina 359 (más una respuesta que no está escrita, pero que mi mente adicionó xD!)
Mi problema es ¿Por qué los autores desperdician sus mejores personajes? ¿Aquellos que tiene más complejidad sicológica, posibilidades narrativas y tonos "grises"(esos que enaltecen ciertos caracteres y dotan a los personajes de vida y sensibilidad)? ¿Esos personajes que, al menos en animé y manga, se roban todas las escenas y uno terminan amando de manera irracional por sus matices y riqueza? Es decir ¿Por qué Melinda Taub desperdició el tremendo personaje que es Escalo? Mi alegato no se debe a que Benvolio me fuera desagradable o porque sea el típico muchachito de novela Ya que destesto. No, Benvolio es un muy buen personaje, sólido, simpático y atractivo, que posee grandes frases y bonitos pensamientos (su recuerdo de Mercucio y Romeo me conmovió), pero es SOLO uno más en la larga lista de jovencitos picaros y dicharacheros de las novelas juveniles, mientras Escalo, claramente, es algo totalmente diferente y aprovechable. Benvolio está bien, cumple su papel a la perfección y ya, si,si si si ... pero cuando tienes una mina de oro ¿por qué la desperdicias? Tengo claro que la autora debe tener un fuerte crush con Benvolio desde su juventud, pero como escritora, si te sale un Escalo en le historia, creo que deberías dejar de lado tus preferencias y explotarlo. Y, quiero ser clara, no sólo hablo de su rol "romántico", sino de todo el espectro de situaciones.
Debo decir que la novela me gusto mucho, la disfruté a concho y que a pesar de que tiene varios (muchos) "defectirijillos", la recomendaría e incluso la volvería a leer. Quedé contenta con ella, se lee con facilidad, su ambientación está bien lograda, es entretenida, está bien construida y a pesar de que no me gustó como terminó, la descripción del beso final fue muy bonita. Benvolio es encantador, así que sus besos (y muchas de sus ocurrencias) también lo son xD! En cambio, Rosalia no me gusta todo lo que desearía, por momentos me parece un poco artificial. Pero, el personaje en general está bien construido y matizado, no cae en los típicos tópicos de heroína juvenil cabezota y arriesgada y salvo por esos detalles que la forzaban un poco, no me desagradó, pero, lamentablemente, no pude agarrarle cariño. Livia, por otra parte me pareció un gran aporte a la trama, al igual que Isabel y sus nabos xD!
La historia en general también me gustó y como retelling (en realidad, como "qué fue lo que pasó luego") creo que funciona muy bien . Hay partes que uno siente forzadas (por ejemplo por qué ellos se odian en la primera conversación), pero eso lo paso por alto por que es "muy shakespereano". Como la historia está construida en ese universo (una Italia "inglesa" como dice la autora") hay que comprenderlo en ese contexto , aun cuando a nosotros nos pueda parecer ajeno.
En cuanto al romance, no me pareció mal en el sentido de "¡¿Tan rápido?!", pues ese hecho es perdonable en el "contexto Shakespereano" del que ya hablé, aunque hubiese preferido algo más sensato y no por ello menos hermoso. Tampoco discuto la elección, porque ya dije lo que creo de ese personaje (¡nanai! ¡Lindo!), aunque esa solución es más bien simple, fácil y obvia. Mi problema es que al escoger esa dirección de la historia, desaprovechó, lo que a mi gusto, pudo ser una historia de amor mucho más compleja, adulta (recordemos que a esa altura a los 17 años eras una mujer, no una niña y que el concepto de adolescencia no aparece hasta comienzos del XX),conmovedora y rica. Otra vez ¿por qué?
Resumiendo: la recomiendo, está por encima de los estándares de las novelas juveniles de hoy y por eso vale la pena leerla. Pasará un buen rato y, si amas las ambientaciones históricas, gozarás muchos sus hojas. Me gustó bastante y creo que tiene mucho mérito como novela, pero, hay que decirlo, pudo ser mejor.
Mi problema es ¿Por qué los autores desperdician sus mejores personajes? ¿Aquellos que tiene más complejidad sicológica, posibilidades narrativas y tonos "grises"(esos que enaltecen ciertos caracteres y dotan a los personajes de vida y sensibilidad)? ¿Esos personajes que, al menos en animé y manga, se roban todas las escenas y uno terminan amando de manera irracional por sus matices y riqueza? Es decir ¿Por qué Melinda Taub desperdició el tremendo personaje que es Escalo? Mi alegato no se debe a que Benvolio me fuera desagradable o porque sea el típico muchachito de novela Ya que destesto. No, Benvolio es un muy buen personaje, sólido, simpático y atractivo, que posee grandes frases y bonitos pensamientos (su recuerdo de Mercucio y Romeo me conmovió), pero es SOLO uno más en la larga lista de jovencitos picaros y dicharacheros de las novelas juveniles, mientras Escalo, claramente, es algo totalmente diferente y aprovechable. Benvolio está bien, cumple su papel a la perfección y ya, si,si si si ... pero cuando tienes una mina de oro ¿por qué la desperdicias? Tengo claro que la autora debe tener un fuerte crush con Benvolio desde su juventud, pero como escritora, si te sale un Escalo en le historia, creo que deberías dejar de lado tus preferencias y explotarlo. Y, quiero ser clara, no sólo hablo de su rol "romántico", sino de todo el espectro de situaciones.
Debo decir que la novela me gusto mucho, la disfruté a concho y que a pesar de que tiene varios (muchos) "defectirijillos", la recomendaría e incluso la volvería a leer. Quedé contenta con ella, se lee con facilidad, su ambientación está bien lograda, es entretenida, está bien construida y a pesar de que no me gustó como terminó, la descripción del beso final fue muy bonita. Benvolio es encantador, así que sus besos (y muchas de sus ocurrencias) también lo son xD! En cambio, Rosalia no me gusta todo lo que desearía, por momentos me parece un poco artificial. Pero, el personaje en general está bien construido y matizado, no cae en los típicos tópicos de heroína juvenil cabezota y arriesgada y salvo por esos detalles que la forzaban un poco, no me desagradó, pero, lamentablemente, no pude agarrarle cariño. Livia, por otra parte me pareció un gran aporte a la trama, al igual que Isabel y sus nabos xD!
La historia en general también me gustó y como retelling (en realidad, como "qué fue lo que pasó luego") creo que funciona muy bien . Hay partes que uno siente forzadas (por ejemplo por qué ellos se odian en la primera conversación), pero eso lo paso por alto por que es "muy shakespereano". Como la historia está construida en ese universo (una Italia "inglesa" como dice la autora") hay que comprenderlo en ese contexto , aun cuando a nosotros nos pueda parecer ajeno.
En cuanto al romance, no me pareció mal en el sentido de "¡¿Tan rápido?!", pues ese hecho es perdonable en el "contexto Shakespereano" del que ya hablé, aunque hubiese preferido algo más sensato y no por ello menos hermoso. Tampoco discuto la elección, porque ya dije lo que creo de ese personaje (¡nanai! ¡Lindo!), aunque esa solución es más bien simple, fácil y obvia. Mi problema es que al escoger esa dirección de la historia, desaprovechó, lo que a mi gusto, pudo ser una historia de amor mucho más compleja, adulta (recordemos que a esa altura a los 17 años eras una mujer, no una niña y que el concepto de adolescencia no aparece hasta comienzos del XX),conmovedora y rica. Otra vez ¿por qué?
Resumiendo: la recomiendo, está por encima de los estándares de las novelas juveniles de hoy y por eso vale la pena leerla. Pasará un buen rato y, si amas las ambientaciones históricas, gozarás muchos sus hojas. Me gustó bastante y creo que tiene mucho mérito como novela, pero, hay que decirlo, pudo ser mejor.
February 28, 2018
Once upon a time I read Romeo and Juliet for English.
It was awful and boring, and I hated it with a passion. I don't know why, but Romeo and Juliet just didn't clash well with me.
Still Star-Crossed isn't exactly like Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet - definitely not a retelling, though I would read a retelling of the cheese any day over rereading the original. Still Star-Crossed is like an unwritten sequel - the aftermath of what happens in Shakespeare's Verona after the tragic ending of Romeo and Juliet. The Capulets and Montagues are in a truce of sorts, but despite the public image, a tension remains between the two families and they're back to their feuds within weeks in the dark of the night. Hoping to diminish the feud altogether, the prince of Verona - Escalus - selects Benvolio (Montague) to marry Rosaline (Capulet).
Benvolio and Rosaline are an interesting pair to put together - they're complete opposites of their cousins. Both of them would probably prefer marriage to a literal snake than a forced marriage to each other, and in the hopes to break off the marriage, the two of them try to ease the heavy tensions lurking over the city.
But Benvolio and Rosaline are so much more entertaining to read about.
They're not hopelessly romantic like their cousins with cheese lined around them! In fact, Benvolio and Rosaline hate being around each other. They only tromp around Verona’s streets behind their families’ backs in the hopes to figure out who is behind trying to start up the feud between their families once more. At the exact same time, Rosaline starts becoming more distant from her sister Livia, and in a way, Still Star-Crossed becomes a tale of a sisterly feud as well.
I think the only problem I really had with Still Star-Crossed is wanting to slap Escalus upside the head a few times for being figuratively blind. (Also, this is becoming a TV show. SOON. YES PLEASE.)
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
It was awful and boring, and I hated it with a passion. I don't know why, but Romeo and Juliet just didn't clash well with me.
Still Star-Crossed isn't exactly like Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet - definitely not a retelling, though I would read a retelling of the cheese any day over rereading the original. Still Star-Crossed is like an unwritten sequel - the aftermath of what happens in Shakespeare's Verona after the tragic ending of Romeo and Juliet. The Capulets and Montagues are in a truce of sorts, but despite the public image, a tension remains between the two families and they're back to their feuds within weeks in the dark of the night. Hoping to diminish the feud altogether, the prince of Verona - Escalus - selects Benvolio (Montague) to marry Rosaline (Capulet).
Benvolio and Rosaline are an interesting pair to put together - they're complete opposites of their cousins. Both of them would probably prefer marriage to a literal snake than a forced marriage to each other, and in the hopes to break off the marriage, the two of them try to ease the heavy tensions lurking over the city.
But Benvolio and Rosaline are so much more entertaining to read about.
THE BETROTHAL: A NUTSHELL
Escalus: In order to bring peace to the two families and to Verona, I have decided the Montagues and Capulets will be united through marriage.
Rosaline: DUDE. PEACE? I slapped that Montague not too long ago.
Benvolio: About an hour ago, in fact.
Rosaline: That's five minutes of knowing each other. Imagine a lifetime!
Benvolio: A complete life of misery.
Pause.
Benvolio: Then again, I guess my misery is yours to command, Your Grace.
They're not hopelessly romantic like their cousins with cheese lined around them! In fact, Benvolio and Rosaline hate being around each other. They only tromp around Verona’s streets behind their families’ backs in the hopes to figure out who is behind trying to start up the feud between their families once more. At the exact same time, Rosaline starts becoming more distant from her sister Livia, and in a way, Still Star-Crossed becomes a tale of a sisterly feud as well.
I think the only problem I really had with Still Star-Crossed is wanting to slap Escalus upside the head a few times for being figuratively blind. (Also, this is becoming a TV show. SOON. YES PLEASE.)
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
June 13, 2017
There's only so many times a girl can read about the importance of maidenhood for a woman's reputation in half old English half modern English half "I have no idea how dialogue works so whatever" before she wants to set herself on fire.
October 7, 2019
Más bien un 4'25.
Me ha encantado esta historia pero muchísimo. Empezó siendo bastante aburrida, desde mi juicio porque habían demasiados personajes (y sobre todo al no haber leído nunca Romeo y Julieta iba bastante, bastante perdida), demasiadas tramas y no entendía no lo que estaba pasando pero fue pasar de las primeras cien páginas y madre mía, qué maravilla.
Traiciones, amor, secretos y muuuuchos asesinatos ambientado en Verona, la continuación de lo que pasa después de Romeo y Julieta llega con 'La mala estrella'. Me ha conquistado por completo la historia una vez que estuve ubicada porque no podía parar de leer por querer saber qué pasaría a continuación.
Los personajes me gustaron muchísimo sobre todo los protagonistas y su relación de cómo poco a poco se va desarrollando.
¡Recomendadísimo!
Me ha encantado esta historia pero muchísimo. Empezó siendo bastante aburrida, desde mi juicio porque habían demasiados personajes (y sobre todo al no haber leído nunca Romeo y Julieta iba bastante, bastante perdida), demasiadas tramas y no entendía no lo que estaba pasando pero fue pasar de las primeras cien páginas y madre mía, qué maravilla.
Traiciones, amor, secretos y muuuuchos asesinatos ambientado en Verona, la continuación de lo que pasa después de Romeo y Julieta llega con 'La mala estrella'. Me ha conquistado por completo la historia una vez que estuve ubicada porque no podía parar de leer por querer saber qué pasaría a continuación.
Los personajes me gustaron muchísimo sobre todo los protagonistas y su relación de cómo poco a poco se va desarrollando.
¡Recomendadísimo!
August 5, 2019
Reseña completa: http://elcaosliterario.blogspot.com/2...
Esta novela, dividida en cinco partes, está ambientada justo después de los acontecimientos que Shakespeare expone en Romeo y Julieta. Es importante resaltar que no es un retelling, sino que a partir de la historia original ha creado una nueva.
Tras la gran tragedia el príncipe Escalo ordena a Benvolio Montesco que contraiga matrimonio con Rosalina, de los Capuleto, para sellar así la paz entre las familias.
La pluma de la autora me ha convencido porque ha sabido emplear un lenguaje moderno pero a su vez no perder la esencia de la historia en esta continuación.
Su ambientación me ha gustado bastante, ya que la autora ha logrado construir una buena historia partiendo de un clásico, algo que ya de por sí es bastante complejo. Ha creado una historia entretenida y fácil de leer.
Un triángulo amoroso es la base principal de esta historia que pese a parecer un poco cliché, te mantiene enganchado a lo largo de todo el libro.
Lo único que no me gustó del libro fueron algunas partes que me resultaron un poco forzadas y predecibles pero no me han entorpecido la lectura. En rasgos generales me ha sorprendido gratamente.
Recomendada especialmente para aquellos que ya han leído Romeo y Julieta.
En resumen: la autora asume el riesgo de continuar una historia conocida por todos saliendo victoriosa. Buena ambientación, profundidad, buen ritmo y un gran respeto al clásico original. Me ha gustado más de lo que esperaba.
Esta novela, dividida en cinco partes, está ambientada justo después de los acontecimientos que Shakespeare expone en Romeo y Julieta. Es importante resaltar que no es un retelling, sino que a partir de la historia original ha creado una nueva.
Tras la gran tragedia el príncipe Escalo ordena a Benvolio Montesco que contraiga matrimonio con Rosalina, de los Capuleto, para sellar así la paz entre las familias.
La pluma de la autora me ha convencido porque ha sabido emplear un lenguaje moderno pero a su vez no perder la esencia de la historia en esta continuación.
Su ambientación me ha gustado bastante, ya que la autora ha logrado construir una buena historia partiendo de un clásico, algo que ya de por sí es bastante complejo. Ha creado una historia entretenida y fácil de leer.
Un triángulo amoroso es la base principal de esta historia que pese a parecer un poco cliché, te mantiene enganchado a lo largo de todo el libro.
Lo único que no me gustó del libro fueron algunas partes que me resultaron un poco forzadas y predecibles pero no me han entorpecido la lectura. En rasgos generales me ha sorprendido gratamente.
Recomendada especialmente para aquellos que ya han leído Romeo y Julieta.
En resumen: la autora asume el riesgo de continuar una historia conocida por todos saliendo victoriosa. Buena ambientación, profundidad, buen ritmo y un gran respeto al clásico original. Me ha gustado más de lo que esperaba.
July 27, 2017
3 stars ✨
as much as I enjoyed going back to Verona, this wasn't a brilliant book. granted, it got me locked for like 2hours once but I could predict what was going to happen so even the end or a part before that didn't surprise me but still this gave some sense of satisfaction that was pleasing enough.
characters were mostly flat with the exception of Rosaline. she was good enough. but honestly my favorite was Benvolio. he was such an eye-candy 😄.
I'd recommend this book for a change of pace in the routine life but not if you're looking for some ground-breaking piece of work.
ps. DO NOT WATCH THE SERIES. utter violation of the book and abysmal actors. just don't.
as much as I enjoyed going back to Verona, this wasn't a brilliant book. granted, it got me locked for like 2hours once but I could predict what was going to happen so even the end or a part before that didn't surprise me but still this gave some sense of satisfaction that was pleasing enough.
characters were mostly flat with the exception of Rosaline. she was good enough. but honestly my favorite was Benvolio. he was such an eye-candy 😄.
I'd recommend this book for a change of pace in the routine life but not if you're looking for some ground-breaking piece of work.
ps. DO NOT WATCH THE SERIES. utter violation of the book and abysmal actors. just don't.
February 17, 2017
Me encantó. Fue un placer leer este libro desde la primera página. Ya va a haber reseña muuuuy pronto en el blog, pero podés leerlo aún sin haber leído Romeo y Julieta. Amor eterno a Nora Escoms (la traductora) y a Melinda Taub. Pd team Benvolio a morir.
December 21, 2021
2.5/5
La verdad es que disfruté bastante el libro, es una historia divertida y ligera que nos habla de un después de la obra Romeo y Julieta, con las consecuencias para los que quedaron vivos. La verdad es que toda su construcción y manera de funcionar es muy de libro de señora.
Rosalina fue el primer amor de Romeo, pero lo rechazó. Ahora, han pasado dos semanas desde que este se quitó la vida y su amada Julieta también. Verona llora a los amantes y toda la gente que murió por esta lucha entre familias, es por esto que el príncipe decide unirlas por medio de un matrimonio. Así es como les ordena a Benvolio y Rosalina casarse para traer paz a la ciudad, por desgracia parece que alguien está más interesado en lo contrario.
Me parece interesante pensar en un después de Romeo y Julieta, a diferencia de otros dramas de Shakespeare aquí es posible preguntarse más cosas. ¿Realmente las familias dejaron de pelear por respeto a las muertes? ¿Una lucha de años se acabó por el cariño a sus miembros más jóvenes y su sacrificio? Me gustó la lógica detrás de la autora de presentarnos Verona con esta paz tensa y el cómo estas muertes por más trágicas que sean no iban a calmar el odio de ambas familias.
Ahora, todo es absurdo en el fondo. La manera en que se ven por primera vez Rosalina y Benvolio, el motivo para casarse, el cómo los fuerzan... todo es muy absurdo con ese tono de libro de señora. Es decir, ese tono en el que hay excusas ridículas para que nuestros protagonistas pasen tiempo juntos que las dejamos pasar porque no son lo importante en la trama.
Me gustó la relación entre ambos, no en el sentido de que me maravilló, sino que fue divertido. El clásico enemies to lovers, que se vuelven amigos y después se enamoran, pero ninguno se lo dice al otro. Es cierto que el paso de "somos enemigos que trabajan juntos" a amigos fue muy de golpe, faltó un poco más de evolución en esta transición tan importante. Sin embargo, de nuevo, lo pasé lo suficientemente bien como para no darle vueltas.
Todo este giro de la conspiración detrás era muy tonto, la verdad es que hizo que el final se volviera aburrido pues era evidente lo que sucedería, de igual forma con las personas responsables. Entiendo que era una forma de que la historia tuviera "drama" y que forzara ciertas situaciones, sin embargo, me pareció sin sentido y superficial.
Los personajes también eran bastante planos, estaban ahí para cumplir roles muy específicos. Me gustó la relación de Rosalina con Livia, el cómo se cuidaban y el cariño entre ambas. Obviamente lo pasé bien con el romance de Rosalina y Benvolio, pero más que eso el resto de los personajes pasa bastante sin pena ni gloria.
Still Star-Crossed es una historia divertida y ligera de romance que transcurre semanas después del final de Romeo y Julieta, con uno de los amigos de él y una prima de ella que son forzados a casarse. La trama en sí no tiene mucho sentido, sin embargo, es un libro que se lee rápido y entretiene.
La verdad es que disfruté bastante el libro, es una historia divertida y ligera que nos habla de un después de la obra Romeo y Julieta, con las consecuencias para los que quedaron vivos. La verdad es que toda su construcción y manera de funcionar es muy de libro de señora.
Rosalina fue el primer amor de Romeo, pero lo rechazó. Ahora, han pasado dos semanas desde que este se quitó la vida y su amada Julieta también. Verona llora a los amantes y toda la gente que murió por esta lucha entre familias, es por esto que el príncipe decide unirlas por medio de un matrimonio. Así es como les ordena a Benvolio y Rosalina casarse para traer paz a la ciudad, por desgracia parece que alguien está más interesado en lo contrario.
Me parece interesante pensar en un después de Romeo y Julieta, a diferencia de otros dramas de Shakespeare aquí es posible preguntarse más cosas. ¿Realmente las familias dejaron de pelear por respeto a las muertes? ¿Una lucha de años se acabó por el cariño a sus miembros más jóvenes y su sacrificio? Me gustó la lógica detrás de la autora de presentarnos Verona con esta paz tensa y el cómo estas muertes por más trágicas que sean no iban a calmar el odio de ambas familias.
Ahora, todo es absurdo en el fondo. La manera en que se ven por primera vez Rosalina y Benvolio, el motivo para casarse, el cómo los fuerzan... todo es muy absurdo con ese tono de libro de señora. Es decir, ese tono en el que hay excusas ridículas para que nuestros protagonistas pasen tiempo juntos que las dejamos pasar porque no son lo importante en la trama.
Me gustó la relación entre ambos, no en el sentido de que me maravilló, sino que fue divertido. El clásico enemies to lovers, que se vuelven amigos y después se enamoran, pero ninguno se lo dice al otro. Es cierto que el paso de "somos enemigos que trabajan juntos" a amigos fue muy de golpe, faltó un poco más de evolución en esta transición tan importante. Sin embargo, de nuevo, lo pasé lo suficientemente bien como para no darle vueltas.
Todo este giro de la conspiración detrás era muy tonto, la verdad es que hizo que el final se volviera aburrido pues era evidente lo que sucedería, de igual forma con las personas responsables. Entiendo que era una forma de que la historia tuviera "drama" y que forzara ciertas situaciones, sin embargo, me pareció sin sentido y superficial.
Los personajes también eran bastante planos, estaban ahí para cumplir roles muy específicos. Me gustó la relación de Rosalina con Livia, el cómo se cuidaban y el cariño entre ambas. Obviamente lo pasé bien con el romance de Rosalina y Benvolio, pero más que eso el resto de los personajes pasa bastante sin pena ni gloria.
Still Star-Crossed es una historia divertida y ligera de romance que transcurre semanas después del final de Romeo y Julieta, con uno de los amigos de él y una prima de ella que son forzados a casarse. La trama en sí no tiene mucho sentido, sin embargo, es un libro que se lee rápido y entretiene.
November 1, 2021
Oye, pues me ha gustado.
No tenía las expectativas muy altas con este libro y, al final, me ha entretenido, me lo he pasado bien. No se va a colar entre mis mejores lecturas del año pero no ha estado nada mal.
La mala estrella es un fanfic de Romeo y Julieta y cuenta la historia de los personajes que sobrevivieron Justo después de la gran tragedia de amor entre ambos en el momento en que Montescos y Capuletos deciden convivir en paz en Verona por respeto a los dos jóvenes enamorados.
Lo que más me ha gustado de la novela ha sido el estilo de la autora pues, aunque al principio me costó enganchar, ha sabido como darle continuidad sin cargarse el estilo Shakesperiano. Por otro lado, los diálogos me han parecido muy divertidos y con un punto canalla que me ha sacado más de una sonrisa.
Creo que la autora ha querido dar vida a uno de los personajes más importantes de Romeo y Julieta y que ni aparece en la obra principal, Rosalina, la gran culpable de todo lo que ocurrió en Verona al rechazar a Romeo y la gran protagonista de La mala estrella.
El libro es predecible en buena parte de la historia pero también tiene un par de giros que no ves venir. El ritmo es ágil aunque repetitivo en ocasiones. Y el argumento está bastante bien. Como digo, una novela para pasar el rato y desconectar. Y si eres fan de Romeo y Julieta pues mejor que mejor.
No tenía las expectativas muy altas con este libro y, al final, me ha entretenido, me lo he pasado bien. No se va a colar entre mis mejores lecturas del año pero no ha estado nada mal.
La mala estrella es un fanfic de Romeo y Julieta y cuenta la historia de los personajes que sobrevivieron Justo después de la gran tragedia de amor entre ambos en el momento en que Montescos y Capuletos deciden convivir en paz en Verona por respeto a los dos jóvenes enamorados.
Lo que más me ha gustado de la novela ha sido el estilo de la autora pues, aunque al principio me costó enganchar, ha sabido como darle continuidad sin cargarse el estilo Shakesperiano. Por otro lado, los diálogos me han parecido muy divertidos y con un punto canalla que me ha sacado más de una sonrisa.
Creo que la autora ha querido dar vida a uno de los personajes más importantes de Romeo y Julieta y que ni aparece en la obra principal, Rosalina, la gran culpable de todo lo que ocurrió en Verona al rechazar a Romeo y la gran protagonista de La mala estrella.
El libro es predecible en buena parte de la historia pero también tiene un par de giros que no ves venir. El ritmo es ágil aunque repetitivo en ocasiones. Y el argumento está bastante bien. Como digo, una novela para pasar el rato y desconectar. Y si eres fan de Romeo y Julieta pues mejor que mejor.
March 30, 2017
¿Quién no conoce la historia de Romeo y Julieta?, puede que no hayas leído la obra de William Shakespeare, pero sin duda sabrás un poco o mucho de lo que ocurre. Pues bien, ¿alguna vez te preguntaste que fue lo que ocurrió después de la muerte de sus protagonistas?
Melinda Taub, retoma la historia y nos cuenta que fue lo que pasó con las familias Montesco y Capuleto y al mismo tiempo nos introduce en un misterio que las envuelve.
La trama se desarrolla apenas unos días después de la trágica muerte de Romeo y Julieta, la ciudad de Verona es un completo caos y todos temen cruzarse entre la disputa existente entre las familias Monstesco y Capuleto, Por lo que el príncipe Escalo decide intervenir para devolver la paz a su reino.
Escalo después de buscar varias alternativa decide que la mejor manera de que exista la paz entre las familias es uniéndolas con una boda, algo que en un principio parece irónico, pero aun así procede ordenarlo, eligiendo para esta tarea a Rosalina y a Benvolio.
¡Esto es solamente el comienzo de la trama, pero hay mucho más en esta historia que solamente eso, pero no quiero spoilearlo porque es realmente bueno!, así que vamos a tratar de contar un poco más sin estropear nada.
Como podrán imaginar, esta decisión no les hará gracia alguna a los protagonistas, ya que no se soportan entre ellos y también debido a un pasado que muy pocos conocen, ya que antes de que Romeo le declarara su amor a Julieta, primero lo hizo con Rosalina, quien lo rechazo debido a estar enamorada de otro.
Rosalina es la prima de Julieta, lleva el apellido Tirimo de su padre, pero su madre era una Capuleto, por lo cual heredo el porte y la belleza de esa familia; pero a diferencia de su prima, Rosalina es mucho más sensata, centrada, e independiente. Desde pequeña fue rechazada de la casa Capuleto ya que sus padres murieron, por lo que ella ha cuidado a su pequeña hermana Livia desde entonces.
Regresando a la historia, algo sucederá en Verona, que obligara a Rosalina y Benvolio a buscar una solución para no tener que recurrir al matrimonio, pero tendrán que hacerlo rápido ya que ninguna de las familias estará a salvo.
Algo que me encanto de la manera de escribir de la autora, es que logra transmitirnos ese sentimiento de nostalgia hacia los personajes y sus vidas, pero también la manera de introducir el misterio y la acción en esta nueva historia, cuidando todos los detalles históricos y de la obra original haciéndola funcionar a la perfección.
“Still Star Crossed” es una novela que busca contarnos un poco más que fue de los personajes que conocimos en “Romeo y Julieta” y de como la muerte de ellos trascendió; no es un retelling como tal, ya que no cambia nada de la historia original, sino que a partir de ella nos narra una nueva para dar conclusión al conflicto entre los Montesco y Capuleto.
Lee mi reseña completa y datos curiosos en: http://rincondelecturamx.blogspot.mx/...
Melinda Taub, retoma la historia y nos cuenta que fue lo que pasó con las familias Montesco y Capuleto y al mismo tiempo nos introduce en un misterio que las envuelve.
La trama se desarrolla apenas unos días después de la trágica muerte de Romeo y Julieta, la ciudad de Verona es un completo caos y todos temen cruzarse entre la disputa existente entre las familias Monstesco y Capuleto, Por lo que el príncipe Escalo decide intervenir para devolver la paz a su reino.
Escalo después de buscar varias alternativa decide que la mejor manera de que exista la paz entre las familias es uniéndolas con una boda, algo que en un principio parece irónico, pero aun así procede ordenarlo, eligiendo para esta tarea a Rosalina y a Benvolio.
¡Esto es solamente el comienzo de la trama, pero hay mucho más en esta historia que solamente eso, pero no quiero spoilearlo porque es realmente bueno!, así que vamos a tratar de contar un poco más sin estropear nada.
Como podrán imaginar, esta decisión no les hará gracia alguna a los protagonistas, ya que no se soportan entre ellos y también debido a un pasado que muy pocos conocen, ya que antes de que Romeo le declarara su amor a Julieta, primero lo hizo con Rosalina, quien lo rechazo debido a estar enamorada de otro.
Rosalina es la prima de Julieta, lleva el apellido Tirimo de su padre, pero su madre era una Capuleto, por lo cual heredo el porte y la belleza de esa familia; pero a diferencia de su prima, Rosalina es mucho más sensata, centrada, e independiente. Desde pequeña fue rechazada de la casa Capuleto ya que sus padres murieron, por lo que ella ha cuidado a su pequeña hermana Livia desde entonces.
Regresando a la historia, algo sucederá en Verona, que obligara a Rosalina y Benvolio a buscar una solución para no tener que recurrir al matrimonio, pero tendrán que hacerlo rápido ya que ninguna de las familias estará a salvo.
Algo que me encanto de la manera de escribir de la autora, es que logra transmitirnos ese sentimiento de nostalgia hacia los personajes y sus vidas, pero también la manera de introducir el misterio y la acción en esta nueva historia, cuidando todos los detalles históricos y de la obra original haciéndola funcionar a la perfección.
“Still Star Crossed” es una novela que busca contarnos un poco más que fue de los personajes que conocimos en “Romeo y Julieta” y de como la muerte de ellos trascendió; no es un retelling como tal, ya que no cambia nada de la historia original, sino que a partir de ella nos narra una nueva para dar conclusión al conflicto entre los Montesco y Capuleto.
Lee mi reseña completa y datos curiosos en: http://rincondelecturamx.blogspot.mx/...
April 10, 2016
ACTUAL RATING: 4.5 STARS
This was so beautifully written and had so many wonderful twists and turns that I did not expect! I loved seeing all the surviving characters from Romeo and Juliet in a new light and the dialogue in this novel made my Shakespeare feels rise. The romance was amazing and not ridiculous like Romeo and Juliet which I appreciated SO much. I loved this story! It was such a lovely retelling.
This was so beautifully written and had so many wonderful twists and turns that I did not expect! I loved seeing all the surviving characters from Romeo and Juliet in a new light and the dialogue in this novel made my Shakespeare feels rise. The romance was amazing and not ridiculous like Romeo and Juliet which I appreciated SO much. I loved this story! It was such a lovely retelling.
September 18, 2025
By my troth, an excellent story!
This story starts after the deaths Romeo and Juliet, and follows Benvolio and Rosaline as they come to terms with what happened.
I've always had a soft spot for Benvolio, and I'm so happy with how he was portrayed in this book.
The author did a really great job developing the characters in her story. I also enjoyed the cameos by characters from other well-loved Shakespeare works, namely Don Pedro and Benedick from Much Ado About Nothing.
4/13/2018: just as magical the second time through!
.
9/15/2022: I'd forgotten some of the key points in this story, so it was almost like reading it for the first time again. I love Benvolio, maybe even more than I love Benedick (Much Ado).
9/18/25: I just love this book.
This story starts after the deaths Romeo and Juliet, and follows Benvolio and Rosaline as they come to terms with what happened.
I've always had a soft spot for Benvolio, and I'm so happy with how he was portrayed in this book.
The author did a really great job developing the characters in her story. I also enjoyed the cameos by characters from other well-loved Shakespeare works, namely Don Pedro and Benedick from Much Ado About Nothing.
4/13/2018: just as magical the second time through!
.
9/15/2022: I'd forgotten some of the key points in this story, so it was almost like reading it for the first time again. I love Benvolio, maybe even more than I love Benedick (Much Ado).
9/18/25: I just love this book.
July 29, 2017
I was a bit wary of a book featuring Rosaline. Wasn't she the beginning of the end for Romeo? If he had not been infatuated with Rosaline and feeling rejected, would he have crashed the party at the Capulet home and met Juliet? And we all know how it went downhill from there.
This book was a pleasant surprise with many twists and turns in the plot. Rosaline is a wonderful protagonist and you really are rooting for her. Benvolio was a character who did not get much attention in R&J so it is lovely to get to know him in this tale.
Loved the connections to Much Ado (one of my favorites) and the Shakespeare-esque dialogue throughout. Recommended!
This book was a pleasant surprise with many twists and turns in the plot. Rosaline is a wonderful protagonist and you really are rooting for her. Benvolio was a character who did not get much attention in R&J so it is lovely to get to know him in this tale.
Loved the connections to Much Ado (one of my favorites) and the Shakespeare-esque dialogue throughout. Recommended!
May 31, 2017
I'm always a little skeptical when reading twists on the classics, but this is Shakespearean fan fiction at its best. It starts only weeks after Romeo and Juliet ends, and deals with the immediate problem- that peace is not so easily won between their families. Prince Escalus' solution to wed Benvolio and Rosaline makes sense, but these two are feistier than their dead counterparts, so of course things don't go as planned. There are more brawls, a masked assassin, history between Rosaline and the prince, a surprise survivor from R&J, and lots of betrayals and twists. It was a little slow to start as all the previously minor characters get developed, but after that, the story keeps pace until the end.
Also, this author did her research! There are many references to Romeo and Juliet throughout, but also Much Ado About Nothing and Hamlet too. Recognizing each nod was delightful.
UPDATE: I watched the series premiere, and I think it might be the first book-to-television adaptation to simultaneously slight two texts. It ruins Benvolio's characterization almost immediately by making him seem like a partying drunk (?!?), robs him of his first fight scene, and reveals all of Still Star-Crossed's secrets by the end of the episode. At least it looks pretty, but everything else is just frustrating.
Also, this author did her research! There are many references to Romeo and Juliet throughout, but also Much Ado About Nothing and Hamlet too. Recognizing each nod was delightful.
UPDATE: I watched the series premiere, and I think it might be the first book-to-television adaptation to simultaneously slight two texts. It ruins Benvolio's characterization almost immediately by making him seem like a partying drunk (?!?), robs him of his first fight scene, and reveals all of Still Star-Crossed's secrets by the end of the episode. At least it looks pretty, but everything else is just frustrating.
August 31, 2017
He disfrutado mucho su lectura, hace tiempo que no me sentía tan intrigada con una historia. Además he encontrado a un personaje que se ha robado mi corazón.
Si Romeo y Julieta no te llama la atención pero te animas a leer esta historia, creo que al terminarla correrás a leer el clásico de Shakespeare.
¡Muy recomendado!
PD: No se dejen engañar por la portada, este libro de romance solo tiene la pizca necesaria.
Si Romeo y Julieta no te llama la atención pero te animas a leer esta historia, creo que al terminarla correrás a leer el clásico de Shakespeare.
¡Muy recomendado!
PD: No se dejen engañar por la portada, este libro de romance solo tiene la pizca necesaria.
August 11, 2017
¿Que la muerte de Romeo y Julieta es sólo el comienzo? Still Star-Crossed se lleva 4 estrellitas porque, más allá de los personajes y los giros argumentales, he disfrutado con lo adictivo que puede resultar la historia. La curiosidad siempre puede más y la autora juega bien sus cartas para mantener la tensión hasta la última página. Y porque me he emocionado de haber empezado y terminado un libro en un sólo día (además de haberme quitado el bloqueo lector que no sabía que tenía)
November 26, 2017
😉Debo de decir que las primeras 150 pg d este libro me ponian mal, literalmente tenía que parar de leer sino lo iba abandonar 😛pero agradezco mucho ver tenido la voluntad de seguir con el ya que me a gustado 💕 me encanto como terminaron ese triangulo del rey Escalo 👑 ,Benvolio 🌟y Rosalina 💙, valio la pena 💞👏
May 13, 2019
Bueno para mi el libro ha estado bien, muy al estilo de shakespeare y la historia de rosalina me ha gustado, pero si he de ser sincera para mi le ha faltado bastante acción en la primera mitad, la mejor parte ha estado de la mitad hacia el final, aun asi esta bien
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