I was not the target audience of this book. As someone who hated the play Rome and Juliet even as a high school freshman when I first read it. I knew it was a tragedy when I read not a romance. And quite frankly I thought Juliet deserved better. So in ways that book gave me that Juliet was alive and we got to see it through the point of view of their daughter. I just which poor Juliet had ended up with someone other than Romeo.

Thank you for this arc!

When I saw this one on NetGalley, I got very excited because it isn't like anything I've ever read. The plot was very unique and I loved that Romeo and Juliet got their happily ever after and that it was now time for their daughter Rosie to tell her story. The characters were fun and witty and I loved how cringey Romeo and Juliet were as parents. I also enjoyed the YA murder mystery feel of the book.
What I didn't like as much was that it took a while for me to get into the story. The beginning felt slow and I had a hard time connecting to the story.

However, I had fun reading this and the ending managed to pique my curiosity and interest, so I'm actually excited for the next book.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ this book was so cute!! As soon as I saw the title I, as a swiftie, HAD to read it and I’m so happy I did.

What if Romeo and Juliet survived and had a family? What if their spinster eldest child, Rosie, was caught up in a murder mystery once her gruesome betrothed is murdered?

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this book

2.75⭐️

A Daughter of Fair Verona is a YA drama, comedic romance novel with some humorous aspects flittered throughout. Rosie was a witty and fun main character who highlighted the woes of the times as a woman, and often questioned them. The setting was well laid out, and believable. The characters were fun and easy to get on with.

However, this is where my enjoyment ended, unfortunately.

In one instance I understand that this book is intended for an age bracket a decade younger than myself, but the writing at times was so junior and sometimes quite modern that it was jarring for me to be in the mind of a twenty year old from the 14/15th century, when her language was so informal and teen.

In another instance, the story itself was lacklustre. I enjoy books that don’t stick to one genre, however, this book could barely hold on to any genre. The chemistry between Rosie and Lysander was fickle at most, which partially was the point but all the same it was painful to read. And the Prince at the end of the novel made me throw away any respect I had for him. It felt forced and so unnecessary. The mystery itself was floaty and didn’t hold a lot of weight in regard to its seriousness.

I fear, as a final note, this falls into the YA category that I do not like nor can enjoy, as well as a feeling of unfinished story telling that left more to be desired.

What a fun book with a great premise. Romeo and Juliet do not die but live a life of love with eight children, the oldest clever and practical Rosie. At 19 she’s still happily unmarried having escaped several attempts until she’s forced to be betrothed to Duke Stephano, who’s brutal and killed all his previous wives. With two gentlemen interested in her and murders to solve Rosie and her beloved Nurse set to find out what is happening, and to clear her innocent name of murder. Written with a great deal of wit Rosie is a character that stays with you. I’m excited and happy to know this is only the first book of her escapades.

What if Romeo and Juliet survived to become popular, respected members of Veronese society and the parents of 7 children. That is the basis for this story. Rosalind (yes, named after that Rosalind) is their eldest daughter. She is 19, well past marriageable age. She has become adept at avoiding connubial bliss. She has no desire to follow her parents’ example. Whenever a suitor comes along she exercises her matchmaker skills to marry him off to someone else. Alas, she may have fallen in love! This will never do!
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an eGalley of this title.

3.5 stars
This series starter is exactly what it says on the tin: frothy, witty, fun. The reimagined story of Romeo and Juliet gives the couple a happy ending and a large brood of children led by eldest daughter Rosalind "Rosie" Montague.

The novel is narrated by Rosie herself and she's in trouble. After ending her previous betrothals she's now engaged to a duke with an unfortunate marriage track record, that is all his previous spouses have died. Rosie is determined to make it out of the engagement alive (and preferably out of the engagement entirely) when death and disaster strike at her betrothal ball. Her fiancée is dead and Rosie is the prime suspect. She must solve the murder to clear her good name which is the perfect adventure for self-proclaimed spinster. Of course Rosie may not be a spinster for long as there are some unexpected romantic scenes between her and... well I won't spoil it.

I've read a few of Dodd's romance novels and enjoyed them and her writing style and this latest book is just as fun. I also appreciated that it was made super clear by Dodd and the publisher that this is the beginning of a series. I will definitely be on the lookout for the next entry.

I was provided a free copy of this book through NetGalley.

This book was such a fun read! It has mystery, danger, a dash of romance, murder and OMG the plot twist!! I loved how the main character, Rosie, would break the fourth wall and address the readers. She is a brilliant, loyal, brave, and strong FMC. The author portrayed her as the logical eldest daughter of Romeo and Juliet, and is relatable in the sense that the eldest seems to always be the most mature!

The love that Romeo and Juliet share in this story reminds me a lot of Morticia and Gomez Addams; the constant dramatic love for one another.

The overall delivery of the story reminds me of the show, Enola Holmes, on Netflix. Both book and show provides a different POV from a character that never existed in the original story. Rosie being involved in a situation that is both dire, and comedic kept me glued to the story! There were definitely a few chuckles throughout the read.

I really enjoyed this story and didn't realize it was a series until the end. I cannot wait to see what's in store for Rosie and the Montagues! I wholeheartedly recommend this book for anyone who likes a little comedy, and a little dramatic flair in their books.

'A Daughter of Fair Verona' by Christina Dodd is a fun cozy detective set after Romeo and Juliet...because they survived and had a daughter! It is fun and light-hearted (the main character breaks the fourth wall) and could easily skew toward Young Adult. First in a series.

What a great detective novel! If yoiu love a good mystery but also want to feel good and cozy, this book is for you! Read it! So Fun!

I recently had the pleasure of delving into this book, and I am beyond impressed with the mesmerizing world that the author has crafted. From start to finish, the intricate plot weaves a tapestry of suspense, emotion, and unexpected twists that kept me eagerly turning the pages.

One of the standout features of this book is undoubtedly its characters. Each one is meticulously developed, breathing life into the narrative with their unique personalities, motivations, and flaws. The protagonists are not just names on paper; they are relatable, complex individuals with whom readers can form a genuine connection. The antagonist, too, is not a mere foil but a multi-dimensional force that adds depth to the story. The author's ability to create such well-rounded characters is a testament to their storytelling prowess.

The plot unfolds seamlessly, drawing the reader into a richly layered narrative that expertly balances tension, drama, and moments of poignant reflection. The pacing is impeccable, maintaining a perfect rhythm that keeps the reader engaged without sacrificing the depth of the story. The author skillfully navigates through various plot arcs, interweaving them with finesse to create a cohesive and satisfying whole.

What sets this book apart is its ability to tackle profound themes while maintaining an accessible and engaging narrative. The book seamlessly combines suspense and emotional depth, making it a truly immersive experience. The author's prose is both elegant and evocative, painting vivid imagery that lingers in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned.

As I reached the conclusion, I found myself yearning for more from this talented author. Their ability to craft a gripping plot and bring characters to life is truly commendable. I eagerly anticipate future works and would wholeheartedly recommend this book to any reader who appreciates a masterfully told tale. If you're searching for a book that seamlessly blends captivating characters with a compelling plot, this is a shining example. I can't wait to explore more literary worlds crafted by this exceptional storyteller.

Well, this was a surprise! The cover and premise, the daughter of Romeo and Juliet, who didn't actually die and are still madly in love with a gagillion children, having to solve a couple murder mysteries amid falling in love herself, caught me and the book itself was delightful. I loved Rosie with her smarts and willfulness, the mystery itself was good, the love story was cute, and all the characters we know and love from the actually play are still around and vividly rendered. I look forward to the promised continuation of the Daughter of Verona series in the end notes! 4.5 big stars. Thank you to Kensington Books, Christina Dodd, and NetGalley for the early read in exchange for my honest opinion.

I am so sorry to the author, who probably is very proud of this book, but oh my goodness this was a joke. The premise of Romeo and Juliet surviving and having a family got me hooked I won't lie, and the cover? Gorgeous. The execution though was awful!!

Firstly, this book is definitely YA. It screams YA, having the protagonist as a 20 year-old is a hard coverup to the fact that this is 100% YA. Breaking the third wall to the reader, to make stupid comments? The attempt at modern and "cool" slang or quips was cringe, the arguably plagiarized attempt at a funny Lady Whistledown (c/o the Bridgerton series) address to the reader was in poor taste and the overall writing style was so juvenile. It was just a hot mess.

The premise of the book, excluding the whole being the daughter of R&J, was so boring and predictable. I'm honestly really proud of myself for finishing this book and only probably did cause I skimmed the majority of it. The whole murder scenario was poorly done, the assailant was predictable as heck and the random 2-D attempt at a love triangle was just comical really.

Thank you for this ARC, though I doubt I'll read from this author again this was such a poor experience.

I read this ARC in exchange for an honest review
All thoughts and opinions are mine

Love love love this author and so happy to be able to read this
a Wonderful, engrossing read

Highly recommend

First, I think this title isn't well categorized. I selected it for the Romance category, but it feels like it would better be filed in Mystery.

From the beginning of the book, I heard shades of the modern Emily Dickinson TV series - a snarky historically linked heroine who breaks the fourth wall with her observations and unconventional desires. The backdrop of a well-known love story gave us a bit of familiarity with this bit of historical suspense. I appreciate Rosaline's strength and determination. The deaths and investigations were wonderfully twisty and surprising, the romances developed well, and I'll look forward to seeing what's in the works for the next book.

Romance author Christina Dodd presents the reader with the supposition that perhaps Romeo and Juliet, who were created by England's renowned author William Shakespeare during the Elizabethan Age, really did not die in the story. Serendipitously, Friar Laurence successfully saves Romeo from the poison he drank with an antidote, and he equally saves Juliet when the knife she uses to plunge into her heart simply nicks her instead. The twist in the couple's fate enthralls the reader, who easily accepts the new circumstances constructed by Dodd.

Dodd uses the reader's infatuation with Romeo and Juliet as fodder to convince her audience of her supposition, and it works. As the reader suspects, Romeo and Juliet live on to have several children. Seven in Dodd's story with the 33 year old Juliet and 36 year old Romeo looking forward to the arrival of their eighth child as Juliet is with child.

Their eldest is 20 year old Rosaline, nicknamed Rosie, who has sidestepped 3 engagements previously arranged by her parents. A headstrong, forthright and dutiful daughter, Rosie's latest engagement to Duke Stephano does not appear to be so easily avoided by merely steering his sights towards another maiden.

Filled with a whole lot of intrigue among the rival families of Verona, in addition to being emotional entangled in Rosie's own family drama, the story keeps the reader's mind engaged as dead bodies keep coming into the tale, and the common denominator between them is Rosie. Page by page, Dodd unravels the details of these deaths, culminating into a knife fight between Rosie and her rival. Someone she did not realize was her rival until the moment of the confrontation.

Dodd keeps the story at a conversational tone with Rosie written in first person and constantly intimating her thoughts to the reader. The story is entirely written from Rosie's perspective, which keeps the reader locked out of the inner thoughts of the other characters. It also intensifies the suspense factor.

Possibly the only drawback is the love triangle that has Rosie as the object of affection for Lysander and Prince Escalus. Dodd has Escalus cheating Lysander from being able to propose to Rosie, which is an unfair fight. Otherwise, the story is very gratifying and will put a smile on the reader's face.

EXTRA, EXTRA Read all about it! Those crazy kids Romeo and Juliet survive their attempts to be with one another in the next world! Biggest story in years as their parents who have a long-standing feud going on, give in to their love-struck children and allow their marriage! The love story for the ages is born. A story loved by all teenage girls and hated by all teenage boys.
The story is picked up by a British correspondent who evidently never even leaves his fair island, and he twists the story in a heart breaking, one tissue box needed, most famous play/movie/high school assignment ever. I’m not going to mention any author’s name, because there is some doubt as to what his name really is. Later, a well-known author by the name of Christine Dodd discovers this true story.
In the delightful A Daughter of Fair Verona, Dodd uses Romeo and Juliet’s oldest daughter, Rosaline aka Rosie, as the narrator of their survival and their subsequent very passionate marriage. The clever and acerbic Rosie quickly narrows in on how falling in love at first sight is the dumbest event ever; until it isn’t. Rosie is 20, on the shelf, a spinster, a never-to-be-married woman. Her goal. She likes her freedom.
Then her parents affiance her to a powerful duke whose previous wives have been murdered. At her betrothal ball she meets the beautiful Lysander with whom she falls in love with immediately. Oops. She also meets a powerful prince who tries to save her from nasty gossip. Rosie doesn’t really get to know her fiancé, Duke Stephano, as he is found murdered in the garden. Rosie is an immediate suspect due to some nasty gossips.
The entertaining and humorous A Daughter of Fair Verona is the first book in a new series. The minute Rosie sees how her family and herself are at risk, she takes on the job of finding out who killed Duke Stephano. She is ably aided by Lysander and the powerful Prince Escalus.
Familiarity with that British writer who twisted Romeo and Juliet story into a teenage tragedy is not necessary, but if you have forgotten a name or two, it’s fun to go back and search for the names.
Dodd does a great job writing this witty, irreverent retelling of Romeo and Juliet’s story. She sprinkles her story with modern terms which normally drives me crazy and I dislike. Dodd makes it work here, or else I’m too beguiled to care. I feel as if I were in Verona after reading Dodd’s story, because as usual she does a stellar job in setting the scene.
I look forward to seeing what happens with all of Dodd’s characters. Although with Romeo and Juliet we can figure out they where they will be. Did I mention Rosie has lots of brothers and sisters?
Rosie has a heart as big as Verona, and with a heart that big will come trouble that big.
My grateful thanks to Christina Dodd and NetGalley for an ARC of A Daughter of Fair Verona.. want to note this book is appropriate for young adult to their grandmothers for reading. What fun that would be, a family book discussion. Oops, one more thing, check out the intriguing and beautiful cover on this book.

I had really mixed feelings about the characters and writing style in the very beginning of the story, but I stuck it out and I'm so glad I did! The story starts off with all the melodrama and obnoxiousness, I associate with Romeo and Juliet, but I became sold on the drama as the book takes itself only serious enough. Rosie is a delightful character! She's relatable in many ways, yet a great nod to Shakespeare and Austen in her more exceptional qualities.

The drama is excellent, the murder mystery has multiple twists that were a fun ride to read.

It ends on a cliffhanger, and I can't wait to read what happens next!!!! I appreciated the author's note where she briefly mentions her inspiration and reasons for taking on such a daring project.

There is no on the page romance except for kissing, some quite passionate kissing, and lots of mentioning of her virginity in jest. Just a little bit of profanity.

I read an advanced ebook from Kensington and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

A Daughter of Fair Verona is a book that seemed designed for me: a Shakespearean murder mystery sequel to Romeo & Juliet sounds fantastic on paper but Christina Dodd’s book is more suited for younger readers than myself because of its humor, mystery and characters. Rosie is a modern teen placed in the past with sass, sarcasm and wit that I feel never fits in this book and I feel Romeo & Juliet are written as annoying and parents who don’t care about Rosie and her life. Overall not for me but I can see the merit.

An amusing story in which Romeo and Juliet lived on and raised a large family. Rosie, the oldest and most logical, is determined not to marry unless true love strikes. A rather silly tale but one I was happy to read throughout.