The Juliet Spell by Douglas Rees

Miranda wants the role of Juliet in the school play more than anything. But even though she’s sure she’s perfect for the part and that she has what it takes to be Juliet, she knows not everyone may think that way. So in order to bolster her chances, she casts a spell. Since she can’t really find any spell to ensure being cast as Juliet, she settles for the next best: a Fame spell. But something goes a little awry, and Miranda gets a little surprise in the form of Edmund Shakeshaft, also known as Edmund Shakespeare, as in William Shakespeare’s younger brother. Yes, Will’s younger brother is now living in the twenty first century as Miranda’s houseguest. So maybe it’s a little weird that Edmund is confused by televisions, not to mention modern plumbing, but it’s also kind of cool to be living and acting with a real Shakespearean player. But the more time Miranda spends with Edmund, the more she’s convinced that he’s the Romeo to her Juliet, and the more she fears what will happen when it’s time for him to go.

The Juliet Spell is a book with some promising ideas but an overall mediocre story. I was initially intrigued by the prospect of a girl who wanted a role in a play so badly she’d resort to casting a spell. In all honesty, though, this spell, the catalyst for the whole story, felt rather random and certainly strange. The story really isn’t about the spell. It’s about Miranda’s relationships with her friends and family, with the added angle of a historical figure. Unfortunately, I really wasn’t very impressed or taken by Miranda’s character, and her voice got to be rather annoying. My interest was briefly recaptured toward the end when the more technical reasons for Edmund’s modern day presence are revealed, but it wasn’t enough to change my opinions of the entire story. The Juliet Spell may be a cute quick read, but it’s one that isn’t particularly much of anything else.

The Juliet Spell appeals to fans of The Espressologist by Kristina Springer and The Oracle of Dating by Allison Van Diepen.

Rating: 3.25

Review copy from NetGalley