Title: Juliet
Author: Anne Fortier
First published January 1, 2010
461 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780345516114 (ISBN10: 0345516117)
Rating: 3.91
Overview
When Julie Jacobs receives a key to a safety-deposit box in Siena, Italy, she embarks on a journey that takes her deep into the history of her ancestor, Giulietta. Her love story with the young man named Romeo is legendary and shook the very foundations of medieval Siena.
But as Julie delves deeper into the past, she uncovers a long-standing feud between the families that is still alive and well. Julie soon realizes that she is the next target of the notorious curse that famously declared “A plague on both your houses!” and finds herself in perilous danger.
The only person who can save her is Romeo, but he is nowhere to be found. Join Julie as she navigates through the winding streets of Siena and uncovers the secrets of her family’s past in a thrilling tale of love, danger, and destiny.
About the Author
Anne Fortier, a native of Denmark, moved to the United States in 2002. She has a Ph.D. in the History of Ideas and co-produced the award-winning documentary Fire and Ice: The Winter War of Finland and Russia (2005).
Her debut novel, JULIET (2010), was a worldwide success, being published in over 30 countries and earning a spot on the New York Times bestseller list. Her second book, THE LOST SISTERHOOD (2014), will be available in paperback on September 1, 2015.
Editoral Review
Anne Fortier’s Juliet is a sweeping historical fiction novel that weaves together the tale of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and a modern-day search for the truth behind the tragic romance. Published in 2010, the novel garnered critical acclaim for its lush prose, intricate plot, and vivid characterization.
Fortier is a Danish-Canadian author and scholar with a Ph.D. in comparative literature. Her previous works include the novel The Lost Sisterhood and the academic study Julia Kristeva and Literary Theory.
She brings her scholarly expertise to bear on Juliet, blending historical research with creative license to produce a tale that is both engaging and enlightening. The book opens with the death of Julie Jacobs’ Aunt Rose, who leaves her niece a key to a safe-deposit box in Siena, Italy.
In the box, Julie discovers a treasure trove of clues to her family’s past, including a journal written by her mother and a copy of Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet. As Julie delves deeper into her family’s history, she uncovers a centuries-old feud between the Tolomeis and the Salimbenis, the real-life families that inspired Shakespeare’s Montagues and Capulets.
The novel alternates between Julie’s story in the present day and the tragic story of Giulietta Tolomei and Romeo Marescotti in 14th-century Italy. Fortier’s prose is rich and evocative, transporting the reader to Renaissance Italy and modern-day America with equal skill.
She expertly balances the two storylines, with each feeding into the other in surprising and satisfying ways. The characters are complex and memorable, from the fiery Giulietta to the mysterious Rob, who helps Julie in her quest to uncover the truth.
One of the strengths of Juliet is its exploration of themes that are still relevant today, such as family loyalty, vengeance, and the power of storytelling. Fortier also brings to life the historical context of the story, illuminating the political and social tensions of 14th-century Italy and the impact they had on the lives of ordinary people.
However, the novel is not without its flaws. Some readers may find the plot convoluted or the historical details overwhelming.
There are also some elements of the book, such as the romantic subplot between Julie and Rob, that feel clichd and underdeveloped. Overall, however, Juliet is a rewarding read for fans of historical fiction and Shakespeare.
Fortier’s deft storytelling and meticulous research make for a compelling and emotionally resonant tale. Those who are willing to invest time and attention in the novel will be rewarded with a rich and immersive reading experience.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
