It sounded promising - a modern retelling of the Romeo/Juliet story with R&J a tad more mature and intelligent, toss in a few historical figures, move the location to the far more interesting Florence - and what did we end up with? A greater appreciation of the Bard’s story telling (and plot borrowing) abilities.

Briefly, Juliet Capelletti must choose between the suitor chosen by her father (rich but oh so repulsive) or the enemy of her clan (soulful and oh so appealing). The premise has promise, but unfortunately it turns into a rather vanilla rendition. And despite the addition of characters and a lengthier exposition (or so it seemed) the story is much the same.

Robin Maxwell may well deserve an “A” for effort, but her execution rates a “C” at best. Maxwell’s style is far from lyric and unless the poems ‘written’ by the fair Juliet are meant as parody, they would have been better left out. Her banal style and heavy-handed characterizations were for me major flaws.

Those who enjoyed Maxwell’s earlier books may well enjoy this one. By all means, give it a look.

But for those, like me, intrigued by the title and plot, take a careful look before you buy. It’s not historical fiction; it’s not a romance; it’s not, heaven knows, Shakespeare.

But the cover is nice. ( )

I had just finished a book and looked at the rather tall stack of books on my shelf. What to read?! I picked up O! Juliet half expecting that I would put it down momentarily and select another book because I was not in the mood for a re-read of Shakespeare. I found, however, that I couldn't put the book down.

Yes, as others have commented, Strozzi's character is over stated and yes there are far too many references to his yellow teeth and his bad breath - he's the quintessential bad sort of dude. Yes, there is also some rather goofy poetry included in the book. It's a lightweight, easy read with characters who are somewhat predictable I suppose. No prize winning novel and not, perhaps, for those who may, because of the title, think that it will, in any way, compare to Shakespeare. It doesn't. I tend to try not to have expectations when I pick up a book other than I expect to always enjoy my favorite authors. I generally enjoy Robin Maxwell's books and although this was not, in my opinion, up to her usual standards, I found this to be very enjoyable none-the-less. I can't give it four stars because I don't consider it to be exceptional but I can say that my three stars are solid and that this book is worth a try if you're in the mood for a light, easy to read, enjoyable book. ( )