Review of Thus With a Kiss I Die (Daughter of Montague, #2)
I can’t even begin to express how ecstatic I was to receive an ARC of Thus With a Kiss I Die from Christina Dodd—seriously, I never win ARCs! When I saw the title pop up in my inbox, I felt like I’d just found hidden treasure! And now that I’ve devoured this delightful sequel, I’m here to share just how much it enchanted me.
From the very first page, we’re thrust back into the chaotic world of Rosie Montague and her unconventional family. Picking up right where the first book left off, we find Rosie in quite the predicament: newly engaged to "the wrong groom,” Cal (our newly nicknamed Escalus), who continues to be infuriatingly practical. Can you blame Rosie for wanting to set her romantic sights back on her "One True Love," Lysander? It’s a classic struggle of the heart that feels both timeless and refreshingly unique, expertly woven by Dodd’s fanciful pen.
One of the standout aspects of this book is the delightful blend of humor and heartfelt moments. Rosie’s misadventures—especially her ghostly interactions and cheeky comebacks—had me giggling out loud. I mean, who knew Shakespearean undertones could be so relatable and funny? The language is playful yet sophisticated, offering just enough Shakespearean flair without making it inaccessible for those less familiar. Dodd strikes an impressive balance, allowing readers of all backgrounds to enjoy the romance and intrigue without feeling lost in a sea of iambic pentameter.
I adored all the colorful characters, particularly the Montague clan. The warm, familial banter brought a welcome lightness to the story. Cal’s attraction to Rosie definitely seems to be deeply influenced by her zany family dynamics, and the interactions with her siblings added layers of humor and relatability. Who wouldn’t chuckle at Cesario’s blushing over Cal’s sister or Imogene’s eerie foreshadowings? The chaotic but loving nature of this family is both entertaining and heartwarming.
However, the story does take a bit of time to pick up steam, which is why I’m giving it 4 stars (though it really deserves closer to 4.5!). The pacing issues were a slight bump on the road for me, but the rollercoaster of emotions involved once you’re fully immersed is so worth the wait. Christina Dodd has truly crafted something special here, and I found myself swept away despite the initial lull.
Now, let’s talk about the end—because I’m in desperate need of the next installment! Knowing I have to wait another year (or two?!) feels like cruel and unusual punishment. This book is a sheer delight that quickly became my favorite work from Dodd to date, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. If you’re into cozy mysteries, heroines who are equal parts brainy and brave, and a splash of romance, this one’s for you.
In summary, Thus With a Kiss I Die is not just a sequel; it’s an invitation to indulge in a world where laughter and love intertwine amid Shakespearean echoes. I truly enjoyed this read, and I can’t wait to see what adventures Rosie and her family will embark on next!
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