Title: Roman and Jewell by Dana L. Davis
Publisher: Inkyard Press
Genre: Contemporary, Young Adult
Length: 336 pages
Book Rating: B+
Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley
Summary:
If Romeo and Juliet got the Hamilton treatment…who would play the leads? This vividly funny, honest, and charming romantic novel by Dana L. Davis is the story of a girl who thinks she has what it takes…and the world thinks so, too.
Jerzie Jhames will do anything to land the lead role in Broadway’s hottest new show, Roman and Jewel, a Romeo and Juliet inspired hip-hopera featuring a diverse cast and modern twists on the play. But her hopes are crushed when she learns mega-star Cinny won the lead…and Jerzie is her understudy.
Falling for male lead Zeppelin Reid is a terrible idea—especially once Jerzie learns Cinny wants him for herself. Star-crossed love always ends badly. But when a video of Jerzie and Zepp practicing goes viral and the entire world weighs in on who should play Jewel, Jerzie learns that while the price of fame is high, friendship, family, and love are priceless.
Review:
Roman and Jewell by Dana L. Davis is a captivating young adult novel.
Sixteen year old Jerzie Jones is excited about the prospect of starring in the Broadway retelling of Romeo and Juliet, Roman and Jewell. Needless to say, she is disappointed to be cast as the stand by for Cinny, who will be Jewell. Jerzie’s parents have always supported their daughter’s dream, so she is staying for the summer in New York with her Aunt Karla.
Things are looking up at rehearsal after Jerzie meets Zeppelin Reid, a rising star cast as Roman. Tension ensues when Cinny makes it clear that Jerzie needs to stay away from Zeppelin. But when she stands in for Cinny during practice, Jerzie and Zeppelin shine as Roman and Jewell. Their practice video goes viral and Jerzie is shocked to learn that Zepplin would very much like a real life romance with her. Will Jerzie follow her heart or will she heed Cinny’s warning?
Jerzie loves all things Broadway and she is willing to put in the necessary work in order to achieve her goals. But she is still a teenager so she can be a little angsty at times. Jerzie has a good head on her shoulders and she does not rebel against her parents’ efforts to keep their daughter safe. Her relationship with Aunt Karla is absolutely wonderful and they share many laugh out loud scenes together.
Zeppelin is fantastic boyfriend material. He is respectful and tries to keep Jerzie from making stupid mistakes. Although Roman and Jewell is his first role, he is extremely talented. Zeppelin is a bit mysterious but once Jerzie accidentally learns about his past, he is willing to answer her questions. They are a super cute couple but will their fledgling romance survive in the aftermath of an unexpected discovery?
Roman and Jewell is an engrossing young adult novel. The storyline is fast-paced and engaging. The characters are well-developed and likable. Despite a bit of an insta-love vibe, Jerzie and Zeppelin’s romance is fun to watch unfold. With late in the story conflict, Dana L. Davis brings this charming young adult novel to a marvelous conclusion. I highly recommend this wonderful novel to teenage and adult readers.
