review by Kara Eng, grade 11, teen reviewer
 16085488

Still Star-Crossed by Melinda Taub

A sequel to Romeo and Juliet. Yes, Romeo and Juliet’s deaths have led to both Montagues and Capulets claiming peace, but that doesn’t seem to be the case. When tensions start to rise after a series of vandalisms, the prince of Verona decides that a wedding between Capulet and Montague is necessary to keep the peace.

This was a fairly sleepy book. Things progressed in an anticipated way. Big plot twists weren’t that surprising (but not necessarily predictable, just that plot twists weren’t unexpected). As soon as you read the first few chapters, you basically knew who the love interests are.
The setting seems pretty realistic. Verona is still running with the blood of Montagues and Capulets. For the most part, characters seem to act in a way that seems realistic for their setting and situation. But, sometimes it’s hard to empathize with characters. There are times when their actions/feelings aren’t justified with motivations. Characters just act without having a clear reason as to why the did so. At times, things are a little exasperating. Characters seem to take a while to shake off their self-denial/deception. I wasn’t necessarily banging my head against a desk in annoyance, but I had to take some breaks from the book.
Overall, this is a book for those that are interested in a spin-off of the classic tale of star-crossed lovers, but not for those that are looking for a unique and thrilling read.  3 stars. –Kara E., grade 11, teen reviewer

Find this book in our library: Still Star-Crossed