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imaginationindex's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
“When Lady Katherine’s father is killed for being an illegally practicing Catholic, she discovers treason wasn’t the only secret he’s been hiding: he was also involved in a murder plot against the reigning Queen Elizabeth I. With nothing left to lose, Katherine disguises herself as a boy and travels to London to fulfill her father’s mission, and to take it one step further — kill the queen herself.
Katherine’s opportunity comes in the form of William Shakespeare’s newest play, which is to be performed in front of Her Majesty. But what she doesn’t know is that the play is not just a play. It’s a plot to root out insurrectionists and destroy the rebellion once and for all.
The mastermind behind this ruse is Toby Ellis, a young spy for the queen with secrets of his own. When Toby and Katherine are cast opposite each other as the play's leads, they find themselves inexplicably drawn to one another. But the closer they grow, the more precarious their positions become. And soon they learn that star-crossed love, mistaken identity, and betrayal are far more dangerous off the stage than on.”
What I did love (this Shakespearean translation was kinda disappointing):
- Historical history from the clash between Protestants v Catholics, the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, and Shakespeare’s plays tied into politics (learned about the last part too) Author leaves a great bibliography at the end which I appreciate!!
- Speaking of Shakespeare, I love when the play is used in the plot. Twelfth Night has been on my list of plays to annotate forever!
- Finally, last thing about Shakespeare… I love how he was written. He was entertaining and witty as a character. As a playwright, rewriting certain scenes were some of the best parts of the book.
- Bisexual Representation done WELL in the Elizabethan Era!? I was stunned in a good way! (Topic of gender is also covered well when certain characters cross dressed)
- Dual POV was written well and not at all confusing to understand
What I misprise (this one’s fun):
- Stakes were so high, but there was such small payoff at the end.
Carey hands Toby his cloak and boom, he’s free. Kit makes it to freedom with no trouble It felt very rushed! - Very convoluted assassination plot. As well very convoluted plan to catch the would be assassin.
- So. Many. Side character. Names. If I have to write them down and still get them confused, I have a problem.
One of my TBR books from the physical pile down… +100 to go! 😅
Content Warnings
Minor: Cursing, Death, Torture, Religious bigotry, Death of parent, and Injury/Injury detail