Book Review: Thus with a Kiss I Die (Daughter of Montague, #2)
OMG, you guys! I won an ARC of Thus with a Kiss I Die by the phenomenal Christina Dodd! I can’t even begin to explain how giddy I am (I mean, this is major)! Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d get to dive into this sequel ahead of its release, especially since I’ve been a fan of Dodd since the ’90s. So let’s spill the tea on this atmospheric, delightful romp that left me both giggling and yearning for more!
Now, for a little context: this is the second book in the Daughter of Montague series, picking up right after the cliffhanger of the first installment. We find our spirited heroine, Rosie, on the brink of a dilemma as she’s tricked into an engagement with the very guy who isn’t her "One True Love." Talk about Shakespearean drama! Only, in Dodd’s delightful retake on the classic tale, the stakes meld with a sprinkle of humor, a dash of mystery, and a cast of lovable oddballs.
Rosie’s struggle to free herself from the clutches of her "wrong" groom, Cal (short for Escalus because, let’s be real, it’s easier on the tongue), provides the spark that ignites this lively narrative. I particularly appreciated Dodd’s ability to blend humor with the gravitas of love and duty. Rosie is a kick-wit heroine, wrestling with her heart, and she never fails to keep us laughing with her sharp comebacks that range from amusing to downright cheeky.
What really made this story shine is how Dodd beautifully balances Shakespearean flair without alienating those who might not be familiar with the Bard’s works. The dialogue has that charming, archaic touch but is filled with anachronisms that have you chuckling to yourself. And the interplay with the Montague family? Pure gold. They are just as lovable and quirky as you’d hope, embodying the joy and chaos that can only come from a family navigating love and loyalty under the most ridiculous circumstances.
And let’s not overlook the fantastical elements peppered throughout! Ghostly encounters, mystical seances, and a cult of traveling flagellants all make for an adventurous backdrop, seamlessly intertwining with Rosie’s quest. Can we talk about how brilliantly Dodd weaves in familiar Shakespearean symbols—like the cameo of Yorick that had me grinning ear to ear?
While I thoroughly enjoyed the pacing—albeit with a slight hiccup at the start—the book truly kicks into high gear after the initial chapters. It’s engaging and sufficiently gripping to keep you from wanting to put it down. The only drawback? Honestly, the waiting game for the next installment feels like cruel and unusual punishment!
In closing, I wholeheartedly recommend Thus with a Kiss I Die to anyone who loves a cozy mystery vibe, quick-witted heroines, and a sprinkle of magic in their romance. Whether you’re a seasoned Shakespeare fanatic or just looking for a fun escape, you’ll find something to adore in this charming, whimsical adventure. It’s safe to say that this series has captured my heart, and I can’t wait to see where Dodd takes us next! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to keep an eye on Dodd’s updates because a year of waiting for the sequel seems a bit too long for my impatient heart!
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