Plot summary, “Juliet” by Anne Fortier in 7 Minutes - Book Review
0"Juliet" is a novel written by Anne Fortier. It was published in 2010 and is a modern reimagining of the classic Shakespearean play, "Romeo and Juliet." The novel intertwines past and present, combining elements of historical fiction, romance, and mystery.
The story follows Julie Jacobs, a young woman who inherits a key to a safe deposit box in Siena, Italy, after her aunt's death. She embarks on a journey to uncover the secrets of her family's past and discovers that she is descended from a woman named Giulietta Tolomei, the original inspiration for Shakespeare's Juliet.
As Julie delves deeper into her family's history, she becomes entangled in a centuries-old feud between the Tolomeis and the Salimbenis, two rival Italian families reminiscent of the Capulets and Montagues. Guided by clues left by her late aunt, Julie navigates the treacherous streets of Siena and uncovers a long-buried family curse.
The narrative alternates between Julie's present-day experiences and the historical events surrounding Giulietta's life in 14th-century Siena. Through these parallel storylines, the novel explores themes of love, fate, family loyalty, and the power of storytelling.
"Juliet" combines elements of romance and mystery as Julie falls in love with a young man named Alessandro, who has connections to the Salimbenis. Their forbidden love mirrors the tragic romance of Romeo and Juliet and adds an element of suspense to the story as Julie unravels the secrets of her heritage.
Anne Fortier's novel blends historical details with fictional elements, creating a richly imagined world that seamlessly weaves together past and present. The story captures the allure of Siena, its medieval architecture, and the renowned Palio horse race, providing a vivid backdrop for the narrative.
"Juliet" has been praised for its blend of romance, intrigue, and historical context. It offers a fresh and captivating take on the timeless tale of "Romeo and Juliet" while exploring themes of identity, destiny, and the enduring power of love across generations.