The delightfully irreverent eldest daughter of the not-so-ill-fated Romeo and Juliet returns to sleuth another day in fair Verona, in this frothy, irreverent, witty historical mystery series with a refreshingly bold premise.
“Woe, for I am the bug that meets the windshield's might,
No longer the speeding glass, smooth, clean and bright . . .”
You’re right. I, Rosie Montague of Verona, am lousy at iambic pentameter and Shakespeare speak, but you get the point: Sometimes you’re the windshield and sometimes you’re the bug. I, who for my whole life, have cruised along, unruffled, am suddenly smashed flat and speeding recklessly up the WhattheHellHappened Highway. Why? you ask . . .
I’m 20 years old and by my own design, never been wed, free as no married woman ever is. I’m beautiful, but without conceit, for Juliet, my legendary Mamma is the most gorgeous creature to ever walk the earth. Just ask Romeo, my legendary Papà. (Rumors of their deaths were premature.) I was heartwhole until I fell (literally) in love with Lysander of the House of Beautiful. But our love was not to be, for I was thwarted by Escalus, the Prince of Verona . . . who had designs on me. I’m trapped.
Then! I’m presented with a solution. Escalus’s father, Prince Escalus the Elder, appears to me. He tasks that I find his killer. Did I mention Elder is a ghost? . . . Given that I only recently dispatched Verona’s first serial killer, I’m less than pleased. Yet Elder promises to unite me with my One True Love. Meanwhile, revolution threatens, for beneath Verona society’s glittering surface lurks an enemy eager to make me a tragic heroine in my own right . . .
📚 Book Review: Thus With a Kiss I Die
"A Supernatural Twist on Shakespeare That Delivers Mystery, Humor, and Heart 4. 25/5🌟 Review: Thus With a Kiss I Die by Christina Dodd is the second installment in the Daughters of Montague series, and it’s a captivating blend of supernatural mystery, historical intrigue, and alternate literary retelling. What if Romeo and Juliet hadn’t died? Dodd explores this question with flair, imagining their descendants caught in a murder mystery laced with paranormal elements. The humor—especially from the youngest family members—is spot-on and adds levity to the darker themes. I especially loved the supernatural angle and the clever reimagining of Shakespeare’s tragedy. Dodd’s writing balances suspense and wit beautifully, and this book marks a refreshing shift from her usual genre mix. Highly recommended for fans of: - Alternate history and retellings - Murder mysteries with a paranormal twist - Quirky family dynamics - Readers of Book 1 in the series ⭐️ 4. 25/5 Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC. This review is honest and unbiased. --- 📚 Indigo Review Format Review Title: A Clever, Supernatural Spin on Romeo and Juliet’s Legacy Review Body: Christina Dodd’s Thus With a Kiss I Die (Book 2 in the Daughters of Montague series) is a genre-blending delight. It reimagines the fate of Romeo and Juliet, giving them a legacy—and a family—whose lives are steeped in mystery, murder, and supernatural secrets. The story is witty, eerie, and emotionally engaging. I especially enjoyed the humor woven into the family dynamics, with the youngest children providing some of the most memorable moments. Dodd’s ability to mix historical setting with modern sensibility and paranormal intrigue makes this a standout read. Perfect for readers who enjoy: - Literary retellings with a twist - Supernatural mysteries - Family-driven narratives - A fresh take on classic stories Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC. My review is completely authentic and unbiased."
