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Romeo & What's Her Name
Understudies never get to perform
. . . which is why being Juliet's understudy in the school's yearly "Evening with Shakespeare" is the perfect role for Emily. She can earn some much-needed extra credit while pursuing her main goal of spending time with Wes, aka Romeo, aka the hottest, nicest guy in school (in her completely unbiased opinion). And she meant to learn her lines, really, it's just:
a) Shakespeare is HARD,
b) Amanda, aka the "real" Juliet, makes her run errands instead of lines, and
c) there's no point because Amanda would never miss the chance to be the star of the show.
Then, Amanda ends up in the hospital and Emily, as the (completely unprepared!) understudy, has to star opposite the guy of her dreams. Oops?
. . . which is why being Juliet's understudy in the school's yearly "Evening with Shakespeare" is the perfect role for Emily. She can earn some much-needed extra credit while pursuing her main goal of spending time with Wes, aka Romeo, aka the hottest, nicest guy in school (in her completely unbiased opinion). And she meant to learn her lines, really, it's just:
a) Shakespeare is HARD,
b) Amanda, aka the "real" Juliet, makes her run errands instead of lines, and
c) there's no point because Amanda would never miss the chance to be the star of the show.
Then, Amanda ends up in the hospital and Emily, as the (completely unprepared!) understudy, has to star opposite the guy of her dreams. Oops?
224 pages, Paperback
First published February 7, 2017
41 people are currently reading
2697 people want to read
About the author
Shani Petroff
16 books304 followersShani Petroff is the author of the YA novels Romeo and What's Her Name (Macmillan/Feb. 2017) and My New Crush Gave to Me (Macmillan/Oct. 2017) and the tween series, Bedeviled (Penguin). She is also the co-author of Ash.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
February 10, 2017
2.5 stars
I love all things Romeo + Juliet and this synopsis sounded cute, so I was excited to read it. Sadly, I was a bit disappointed.
Emily's inner monologue came across as super young. I would have never guessed she was a junior in high school if it wasn't stated. I really liked her friends and their relationship, but all they ever talked about was boys. It would have been nice to see something else. Wes has a lot of potential, but Emily has this idea of him in her head, it's like we only know the idolized version him.
The plot had some cute scenes, but everything was tempered with the characters {mainly Emily} being overdramatic. I'm sure a lot of people will love it, but it wasn't for me.
**Huge thanks to Swoon Reads for providing the arc free of charge**
I love all things Romeo + Juliet and this synopsis sounded cute, so I was excited to read it. Sadly, I was a bit disappointed.
Emily's inner monologue came across as super young. I would have never guessed she was a junior in high school if it wasn't stated. I really liked her friends and their relationship, but all they ever talked about was boys. It would have been nice to see something else. Wes has a lot of potential, but Emily has this idea of him in her head, it's like we only know the idolized version him.
The plot had some cute scenes, but everything was tempered with the characters {mainly Emily} being overdramatic. I'm sure a lot of people will love it, but it wasn't for me.
**Huge thanks to Swoon Reads for providing the arc free of charge**
December 19, 2018
I DNFed Romeo & What’s Her Name earlier this year (scroll down for quotes), but I wanted to snark it for a friend (because I hate myself and my friend apparently), so I found myself in the unfortunate position of having to finish. It’s not good. In fact, it’s atrocious.
One thing I will absolutely never understand is why someone would write a story inspired by the work of another author only to constantly rip on that author. Like, the Shakespeare reference is clear in the title. This means that many people who pick this book up (like myself) are hoping for a cute Shakespeare retelling or at least some clever references. Instead, it’s just Emily talking about how stupid and impossible Shakespeare’s writing is. This does not endear Emily to me.
Then again, Emily is absolutely the worst human ever, so being hated by her is really a compliment. I feel like she’s meant to be charmingly obsessive and awkward, but Emily is an actual stalker. She notices that her crush, Wes, has taken down all of his photos from the Facebook stand-in somewhere between the previous night and the following morning. SHE CHECKS ALL OF HIS PHOTOS MULTIPLE TIMES A DAY. She wishes she had a recording of his laugh so she could listen to it on repeat. Like, honestly, if this story were realistic, she would murder Wes’ new crush and lock him in her basement.
The plot is heinous, something the book even acknowledges sometimes. The book’s meant to be hilarious, but the only thing it induces is cringing. The scene where Emily inevitably needs to act in the scene she didn’t bother to memorize is abjectly painful. Her grand gesture to Wes, in which she tries to write like Shakespeare, is more-so. There’s also just know way Wes would be into this girl. And no way that Emily would have friends, considering that she is selfish and talks about NOTHING but Wes.
The writing’s also just horrific, though that should come as no surprise. Do not read this book. It is perhaps the worst thing published by Swoon Reads thus far, which is truly an accomplishment.
____________________________________________
ORIGINAL DNF REVIEW:
Swoon Reads titles have been a mixed bag that's largely been not so great. I've tried quite a few, because they always have cute-sounding premises. Of all the ones I've tried, Romeo & What's Her Name is assuredly the worst of the bunch. The writing is atrocious, and the heroine is a serious creep who needs therapy, not a love interest.
Here are some quotes from chapter one, aka as far as I got (and that was tough).
Character introductions are clunky. It's bad fan fic writing up in here, ham-handedly telling you about everyone as they enter the frame. The first three characters to appear all get this treatment, and the heroine also manages to reference herself in the third person within the chapter.
Speaking of telling. This is on page two or three (egalley idk), and I cracked up. Like, we do not know this best friend at all. You don't just do that. No no no.
Included in a long list of things she loves about Wes, her crush. Like, seriously, if this girl could buy a clip of his laugh, she would listen to it ALL DAY LONG. Creepy af. Except surely this is just a bit of exaggeration, right?
This sounds totally legit if she's dating Wes, but, in fact, he has a girlfriend. So this is again rather creepy.
Setting aside the atrocious grammar here, what the fuck is this meant to tell me about Wes?
So, wow, that's um a lot. But everyone facebook stalks their crush occasionally. This is okay. I mean, she had to promise her friends to stop, but surely she's not actually a creepy stalker.
No, wait, jk, she's a stalker. SHE CHECKS HIS FACEBOOK LAST THING BEFORE GOING TO SLEEP AND FIRST THING IN THE MORNING. THAT IS NOT NORMAL.
Wes, get a restraining order.
So this is some Single White Female horror movie creep level.
CALM. DOWN.
WES, FLY YOU FOOL.
Literally all of the first chapter is like this. There's a crush and then there's this terrifying level of obsession. I don't want Emily to find romance; I want her to find a therapist.
One thing I will absolutely never understand is why someone would write a story inspired by the work of another author only to constantly rip on that author. Like, the Shakespeare reference is clear in the title. This means that many people who pick this book up (like myself) are hoping for a cute Shakespeare retelling or at least some clever references. Instead, it’s just Emily talking about how stupid and impossible Shakespeare’s writing is. This does not endear Emily to me.
Then again, Emily is absolutely the worst human ever, so being hated by her is really a compliment. I feel like she’s meant to be charmingly obsessive and awkward, but Emily is an actual stalker. She notices that her crush, Wes, has taken down all of his photos from the Facebook stand-in somewhere between the previous night and the following morning. SHE CHECKS ALL OF HIS PHOTOS MULTIPLE TIMES A DAY. She wishes she had a recording of his laugh so she could listen to it on repeat. Like, honestly, if this story were realistic, she would murder Wes’ new crush and lock him in her basement.
The plot is heinous, something the book even acknowledges sometimes. The book’s meant to be hilarious, but the only thing it induces is cringing. The scene where Emily inevitably needs to act in the scene she didn’t bother to memorize is abjectly painful. Her grand gesture to Wes, in which she tries to write like Shakespeare, is more-so. There’s also just know way Wes would be into this girl. And no way that Emily would have friends, considering that she is selfish and talks about NOTHING but Wes.
The writing’s also just horrific, though that should come as no surprise. Do not read this book. It is perhaps the worst thing published by Swoon Reads thus far, which is truly an accomplishment.
____________________________________________
ORIGINAL DNF REVIEW:
Swoon Reads titles have been a mixed bag that's largely been not so great. I've tried quite a few, because they always have cute-sounding premises. Of all the ones I've tried, Romeo & What's Her Name is assuredly the worst of the bunch. The writing is atrocious, and the heroine is a serious creep who needs therapy, not a love interest.
Here are some quotes from chapter one, aka as far as I got (and that was tough).
“Well,” Kayla Nunez, my other BFF said when Jill finally made it over, “are you going to tell us?”
Character introductions are clunky. It's bad fan fic writing up in here, ham-handedly telling you about everyone as they enter the frame. The first three characters to appear all get this treatment, and the heroine also manages to reference herself in the third person within the chapter.
“Did Wes say something at the bus stop to make you think this?” Jill asked.
She was always so practical.
Speaking of telling. This is on page two or three (egalley idk), and I cracked up. Like, we do not know this best friend at all. You don't just do that. No no no.
that magical laugh you wish iTunes sold so you could play it over and over
Included in a long list of things she loves about Wes, her crush. Like, seriously, if this girl could buy a clip of his laugh, she would listen to it ALL DAY LONG. Creepy af. Except surely this is just a bit of exaggeration, right?
“Okay, fine, I wanted to see Wes. If I don’t get my bus time, I have to wait until last period to really get a chance to be around him.”
This sounds totally legit if she's dating Wes, but, in fact, he has a girlfriend. So this is again rather creepy.
“It’s the first day back from winter vacation, he wouldn’t miss it.”
Setting aside the atrocious grammar here, what the fuck is this meant to tell me about Wes?
She shrugged. “Didn’t you say he was away? He might not be back yet.”
“He’s back home.”
Jill raised an eyebrow at me. “And how do you know that?”
“Okay, I know I promised I would stop stalking him online, but I couldn’t help it. He’s so cute, and I found out some really important stuff this time. And it’s not really stalking, because we’re friends, he follows me back.”
So, wow, that's um a lot. But everyone facebook stalks their crush occasionally. This is okay. I mean, she had to promise her friends to stop, but surely she's not actually a creepy stalker.
“Well,” I said, trying to contain my excitement so I wouldn’t cause a scene, “sometime between when I went to bed last night and when I woke up this morning, he took down all his pictures withher.”
No, wait, jk, she's a stalker. SHE CHECKS HIS FACEBOOK LAST THING BEFORE GOING TO SLEEP AND FIRST THING IN THE MORNING. THAT IS NOT NORMAL.
They met at the summer camp they both worked at. She lived a few towns over. I never met her, but I kind of felt like I had because of all my snooping. We all did because I talked about her so much.
Wes, get a restraining order.
"This is my chance. I mean, I’m totally his type. I even look a little like Leora."
So this is some Single White Female horror movie creep level.
It seemed kind of crazy to think someone would dump the hottest, sweetest, nicest guy in the whole state of Ohio, possibly even the country, but stranger things had happened.
CALM. DOWN.
Maybe he and Leora really were still together, and he just took down the pictures to protect her privacy from prying eyes like mine.
WES, FLY YOU FOOL.
Literally all of the first chapter is like this. There's a crush and then there's this terrifying level of obsession. I don't want Emily to find romance; I want her to find a therapist.
December 17, 2018
Wes became Emily's Romeo the day he helped her learn to rider a bike, and he was finally unattached! The time had arrived for Emily to make her move and show him who his Juliet really was.
Warning: This book may cause your face to ache from smiling too much. Romeo and What's Her Name was one really cute and fun little rom-com.
First we had Emily, who had a very I-Love-Lucy-esque manner about her. Whenever she got into things, one thing always seemed to lead to another, which usually left me giggling. She was adorably awkward, and suffered from misreading signals and jumping to conclusions, but MAN! When she finally decided to just go for it, she went BIG.
Not only was Emily fabulous, she had two fantastic friends, who were always encouraging her and helping her pick herself up when she stumbled. These girls had a wonderful habit of putting each other first, and I thought they were all really fortunate to have each other.
I sort of enjoyed all the Shakespeare. I liked how the various scenes were woven into the story, and the teenage commentary on the plays was fun as well. The Romeo & Juliet scene was quite amusing and heartwarming too.
And then there was Wes. I was sold on Wes immediately. He was kind and sweet and the way he looked out for his little brother, it all just tugged at my heartstrings.
There was also the friends-to-more romance, which was too adorable. I had so much fun watching their relationship grow. It was obvious, that each of them were into the other, and at times, I just shook my head, wondering how they couldn't see it too, but I still enjoyed seeing it all unfold.
Overall: A super fun, super cute, fluffy read, which made me giggle, laugh, and smile.
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Warning: This book may cause your face to ache from smiling too much. Romeo and What's Her Name was one really cute and fun little rom-com.
First we had Emily, who had a very I-Love-Lucy-esque manner about her. Whenever she got into things, one thing always seemed to lead to another, which usually left me giggling. She was adorably awkward, and suffered from misreading signals and jumping to conclusions, but MAN! When she finally decided to just go for it, she went BIG.
Not only was Emily fabulous, she had two fantastic friends, who were always encouraging her and helping her pick herself up when she stumbled. These girls had a wonderful habit of putting each other first, and I thought they were all really fortunate to have each other.
I sort of enjoyed all the Shakespeare. I liked how the various scenes were woven into the story, and the teenage commentary on the plays was fun as well. The Romeo & Juliet scene was quite amusing and heartwarming too.
And then there was Wes. I was sold on Wes immediately. He was kind and sweet and the way he looked out for his little brother, it all just tugged at my heartstrings.
There was also the friends-to-more romance, which was too adorable. I had so much fun watching their relationship grow. It was obvious, that each of them were into the other, and at times, I just shook my head, wondering how they couldn't see it too, but I still enjoyed seeing it all unfold.
Overall: A super fun, super cute, fluffy read, which made me giggle, laugh, and smile.
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July 13, 2017
Is this the most original book that I will read this year? No. But was it so ridiculously cute? YES. SO ADORABLE. OMG, I HAVE A FEELING THIS REVIEW WILL BE A LOT OF CAPS ACTION.
Okay, this book. It's only 200 pages or so, but goodness, it was adorable. I was like, no way can they actually complete a successful story in that time period, but it was just the right amount for this cute little book.
I'm not really sure what to say about this book, because with adorable fluffy, little books, I have a hard time getting too in-depth with them. This had some actual laugh out loud moment - like I actually cracked up and got a glance from the person in the room with me, like, why are you laughing out loud why reading that random book? XD It had the expected funny, fluffy moments. It had the adorable, swoony moments. It had the clear cut mean girl; the supporting best friends; the unattainable and popular love interest; and more.
So, yes, it's cliche, predictable, but ADORABLE. I just had a smile on my face when I was reading it, and I got so many feels. I liked the plot, I liked the cheese, I liked the characters, I liked the inclusion of the play atmosphere, and I liked the pacing.
Did I want a bit more from this? Probably. Did I want a bit more mixing things up? It probably would have been good. Did I totally secondguess who the end result of the love interest was? Yes, because I'm clearly looking for the nerdy guy in everything now that I've totally forgotten the popular hot guy can be a love interest. XD
Overall, this was just a cute novel. It was adorable, full of heart and feels, and funnies. It's fluffy, adorable goodness. Could it have been a more? Yes, but if you're okay with fluff and cliches, then you will enjoy! Four crowns and an Ariel rating (because she, too, would have a hard time being an actress seeing as she couldn't talk for like 3/4 of her movie).
Oops, I forgot all my CAPS action. Um, here: SO CUTE. SO GOOD. PLEASE READ IF YOU ENJOY CUTENESS. THE END.
Okay, this book. It's only 200 pages or so, but goodness, it was adorable. I was like, no way can they actually complete a successful story in that time period, but it was just the right amount for this cute little book.
I'm not really sure what to say about this book, because with adorable fluffy, little books, I have a hard time getting too in-depth with them. This had some actual laugh out loud moment - like I actually cracked up and got a glance from the person in the room with me, like, why are you laughing out loud why reading that random book? XD It had the expected funny, fluffy moments. It had the adorable, swoony moments. It had the clear cut mean girl; the supporting best friends; the unattainable and popular love interest; and more.
So, yes, it's cliche, predictable, but ADORABLE. I just had a smile on my face when I was reading it, and I got so many feels. I liked the plot, I liked the cheese, I liked the characters, I liked the inclusion of the play atmosphere, and I liked the pacing.
Did I want a bit more from this? Probably. Did I want a bit more mixing things up? It probably would have been good. Did I totally secondguess who the end result of the love interest was? Yes, because I'm clearly looking for the nerdy guy in everything now that I've totally forgotten the popular hot guy can be a love interest. XD
Overall, this was just a cute novel. It was adorable, full of heart and feels, and funnies. It's fluffy, adorable goodness. Could it have been a more? Yes, but if you're okay with fluff and cliches, then you will enjoy! Four crowns and an Ariel rating (because she, too, would have a hard time being an actress seeing as she couldn't talk for like 3/4 of her movie).
Oops, I forgot all my CAPS action. Um, here: SO CUTE. SO GOOD. PLEASE READ IF YOU ENJOY CUTENESS. THE END.
February 22, 2017
I loved this book, not only is it a romance book but it had tons of cheesy funny moments. Emily is a klutz and is always embarrassing herself, you feel like you know what's going to happen next but sometimes the book surprises you.
You can find my full review here ; http://bellathebibliophile.blogspot.c...
You can find my full review here ; http://bellathebibliophile.blogspot.c...
February 6, 2017
Full review to come...
April 14, 2017
This was a silly but fun YA read. And when I say silly it's not an insult. I really enjoyed this book and breezed right through it almost too quickly. :)
February 7, 2017
After my last two recent reads (a tear-jerker and a murder mystery), I needed something light and fluffy. Romeo and What's Her Name gave me exactly that. With no expectations, this was such a fun read.
Romeo and What's Her Name made me laugh so hard. I think I had such a great time reading it because I didn't have any expectations. The story was quick. It never dragged and there was no extra drama. Everything revolved around Emily and her crush on Wes. The fun really starts when Emily's "understudy" plan backfires. She's thrust into the spotlight to perform some Shakespeare with the boy of her dreams- all while not having memorized a single line of the play. Romantic? Not so much. Laugh-out-loud funny? Absolutely!
Emily is a hilariously comical character. I admire all the effort she put into finding ways to spend more time around/with Wes (in the hopes he might like her back). She goofs around a lot but she has some of the most honest and down-to-earth reactions I've seen in contemporary books. Emily might be a little over the top but I love how much she owns her silliness. Her botched up Juliet performance earned her plenty of mockery but she bravely weathers all the sarcastic remarks. Of course, having supportive friends helped her deal with the embarrassments too.
I adore stories with awesome friendship and Romeo and What's Her Name had the best one yet. Emily has two besties, both were understanding and encouraging. They giggled with her over Wes's hotness and picked her back up when she's feeling down. You couldn't ask for more amazing friends.
This book may be a tad silly making you cover your face from embarrassment but it will also make you cover your mouth in laughter. If you're looking for a fun and easy time then I guarantee you'll find it with Romeo and What's Her Name ;)
Romeo and What's Her Name made me laugh so hard. I think I had such a great time reading it because I didn't have any expectations. The story was quick. It never dragged and there was no extra drama. Everything revolved around Emily and her crush on Wes. The fun really starts when Emily's "understudy" plan backfires. She's thrust into the spotlight to perform some Shakespeare with the boy of her dreams- all while not having memorized a single line of the play. Romantic? Not so much. Laugh-out-loud funny? Absolutely!
Emily is a hilariously comical character. I admire all the effort she put into finding ways to spend more time around/with Wes (in the hopes he might like her back). She goofs around a lot but she has some of the most honest and down-to-earth reactions I've seen in contemporary books. Emily might be a little over the top but I love how much she owns her silliness. Her botched up Juliet performance earned her plenty of mockery but she bravely weathers all the sarcastic remarks. Of course, having supportive friends helped her deal with the embarrassments too.
I adore stories with awesome friendship and Romeo and What's Her Name had the best one yet. Emily has two besties, both were understanding and encouraging. They giggled with her over Wes's hotness and picked her back up when she's feeling down. You couldn't ask for more amazing friends.
This book may be a tad silly making you cover your face from embarrassment but it will also make you cover your mouth in laughter. If you're looking for a fun and easy time then I guarantee you'll find it with Romeo and What's Her Name ;)
October 22, 2016
A fun, fast, silly read that's super cute and perfect for when you need some romantic fluff. It read a lot like a high school rom-com, almost like a mash-up of The DUFF movie and Easy A. Lots of tropes and pretty predictable, but perfectly executed for what it is.
March 7, 2017
Four stars: A cute, funny, predictable friends to lovers romance that will have you snickering.
Emily is thrilled. Her life long crush and neighbor, Wes, just broke up with his girlfriend. That means Emily might finally have her chance, but she is too chicken. So when Emily realizes that Wes is trying out for Romeo, she is determined to be his Juliet. That is until mean girl, Amanda, lands the role. Emily is the understudy, which means being Amanda's errand girl. Understudies never get the part, right?
What I Liked:
*Romeo and What's His Name was a surprisingly cute and funny romance with the ever popular friends to lovers trope.
*I loved the humor. Emily is a hilarious main character. I enjoyed watching her land into one awkward scene after another, and handle it with humor and grace. She is laugh out loud funny. This girl has guts and heart, and she will make you laugh.
The romance is totally predictable, but sweet. I loved watching it unfold. You can never go wrong with the old friends to lovers romance.
*I enjoyed the strong focus on friendship. Emily's two besties always have her back through thick and thin. I loved the positivity and support of the friendship the girls shared.
*I also liked that family was important to both Emily and Wes. Wes always looks out for his younger brother. Emily's parents are present and supportive, which is always a plus in Young Adult books.
*The ending was sweet and adorable. It ends on a high note.
And The Not So Much:
*I disliked the strong mean girl theme. Amanda is downright awful.
*Even though Wes was sweet and charming, he doesn't have a backbone. Why did he not stand up to Amanda instead of going along with her when he wasn't happy.
*The whole Shakespeare gone wrong was a little over the top and cheesy for me.
Romeo and What's Her Name was a surprising read for me. I went in expecting the typical high school romance, but was surprised by the hilarity in this one. I loved Emily, she is the perfect heroine. This is a friends to lovers romance that is completely predictable, but it's so fun to watch unfold. I loved the humor in this one.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Emily is thrilled. Her life long crush and neighbor, Wes, just broke up with his girlfriend. That means Emily might finally have her chance, but she is too chicken. So when Emily realizes that Wes is trying out for Romeo, she is determined to be his Juliet. That is until mean girl, Amanda, lands the role. Emily is the understudy, which means being Amanda's errand girl. Understudies never get the part, right?
What I Liked:
*Romeo and What's His Name was a surprisingly cute and funny romance with the ever popular friends to lovers trope.
*I loved the humor. Emily is a hilarious main character. I enjoyed watching her land into one awkward scene after another, and handle it with humor and grace. She is laugh out loud funny. This girl has guts and heart, and she will make you laugh.
The romance is totally predictable, but sweet. I loved watching it unfold. You can never go wrong with the old friends to lovers romance.
*I enjoyed the strong focus on friendship. Emily's two besties always have her back through thick and thin. I loved the positivity and support of the friendship the girls shared.
*I also liked that family was important to both Emily and Wes. Wes always looks out for his younger brother. Emily's parents are present and supportive, which is always a plus in Young Adult books.
*The ending was sweet and adorable. It ends on a high note.
And The Not So Much:
*I disliked the strong mean girl theme. Amanda is downright awful.
*Even though Wes was sweet and charming, he doesn't have a backbone. Why did he not stand up to Amanda instead of going along with her when he wasn't happy.
*The whole Shakespeare gone wrong was a little over the top and cheesy for me.
Romeo and What's Her Name was a surprising read for me. I went in expecting the typical high school romance, but was surprised by the hilarity in this one. I loved Emily, she is the perfect heroine. This is a friends to lovers romance that is completely predictable, but it's so fun to watch unfold. I loved the humor in this one.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
January 7, 2017
Thanks so much to Raincoast Books for providing me with an eARC for an honest review. As always, all opinions are my own.
I got exactly what I thought I would out of this book, so I suppose I can't be too disappointed, but I just had higher hopes.
This story follows Emily, a girl with a major crush. After her crush, Wes, signs up for the lead in a small scene production of Romeo & Juliet, she decides to be his Juliet. Except she ends up as the understudy - the real Juliet, Amanda, is the typical mean girl/boy stealer. Emily is just happy to be around Wes and is too busy running around doing Amanda's errands to actually learn the lines. Which is fine, because Amanda will perform no matter what. The only thing that can stop her is an emergency appendicitis - forcing Emily to hit the stage.
I went into this book knowing it was going to be a super light, fluffy contemporary romance. And even though that is exactly what I got, I still felt like it was a little bit disappointing.
Emily as a character wasn't my favourite, she was so in love with Wes she had zero backbone. She couldn't even talk to him without babbling on. Now, the first couple times, this was cute. But after a while, I was genuinely concerned for her mental well-being. He looked at her and she literally melted into a puddle. I'm okay with some lovestruck MC, but Emily took the cake with this one. She also felt really young to me. Like I was reading a middle grade instead of a story about a sixteen-year-old. Her thoughts weren't much more than her gushing about one thing or another and it got a little annoying.
I also felt zero connection between the two of them. Apparently, she's had a crush on Wes since they were little, growing up on the same street. But I felt nothing other than infatuation and obsession.
I know very little about Wes, in fact, I don't think any of the characters were fleshed out at all. I get it's supposed to be a fun read but I was just not connecting to it at all.
The story was predictable, I figured it would be going in. I'm not too upset about that. But I just feel like there was so much more potential in this story.
Take the whole Shakespeare element. Yes, it wasn't a huge part of the story, but I think it was an important one. The characters, especially Emily, seemed to know nothing about arguably one of his most recognizable plays. While he uses language that is different from our every day, it was common then and served its purpose. And the lines were written in iambic pentameter to have a certain rhythm. He made up some words, but for the most part, they were used regularly. Emily seemed to have no concept of any of this, declaring that it was in a different language and made up her own version. I didn't want to play the English major card, but you cannot just add -eth to the ends of words to make them Shakespearean. But I digress.
Is it too much to ask for a romance where the couple plays the parts of Romeo and Juliet and aren't bumbling lovesick teens? This is the second book like this I've read and each time I thought there was something better to be had.
Everything about this book was just too much. She was too mushy, too infatuated. Amanda was too mean, her friends were too supportive (I'm all for a good friendship but this group was almost sickly sweet). I knew it would be cheesy, but it was too cheesy - to the point of annoyance. It was all just too much.
Overall, in case it wasn't clear, not a favourite.
I got exactly what I thought I would out of this book, so I suppose I can't be too disappointed, but I just had higher hopes.
This story follows Emily, a girl with a major crush. After her crush, Wes, signs up for the lead in a small scene production of Romeo & Juliet, she decides to be his Juliet. Except she ends up as the understudy - the real Juliet, Amanda, is the typical mean girl/boy stealer. Emily is just happy to be around Wes and is too busy running around doing Amanda's errands to actually learn the lines. Which is fine, because Amanda will perform no matter what. The only thing that can stop her is an emergency appendicitis - forcing Emily to hit the stage.
I went into this book knowing it was going to be a super light, fluffy contemporary romance. And even though that is exactly what I got, I still felt like it was a little bit disappointing.
Emily as a character wasn't my favourite, she was so in love with Wes she had zero backbone. She couldn't even talk to him without babbling on. Now, the first couple times, this was cute. But after a while, I was genuinely concerned for her mental well-being. He looked at her and she literally melted into a puddle. I'm okay with some lovestruck MC, but Emily took the cake with this one. She also felt really young to me. Like I was reading a middle grade instead of a story about a sixteen-year-old. Her thoughts weren't much more than her gushing about one thing or another and it got a little annoying.
I also felt zero connection between the two of them. Apparently, she's had a crush on Wes since they were little, growing up on the same street. But I felt nothing other than infatuation and obsession.
I know very little about Wes, in fact, I don't think any of the characters were fleshed out at all. I get it's supposed to be a fun read but I was just not connecting to it at all.
The story was predictable, I figured it would be going in. I'm not too upset about that. But I just feel like there was so much more potential in this story.
Take the whole Shakespeare element. Yes, it wasn't a huge part of the story, but I think it was an important one. The characters, especially Emily, seemed to know nothing about arguably one of his most recognizable plays. While he uses language that is different from our every day, it was common then and served its purpose. And the lines were written in iambic pentameter to have a certain rhythm. He made up some words, but for the most part, they were used regularly. Emily seemed to have no concept of any of this, declaring that it was in a different language and made up her own version. I didn't want to play the English major card, but you cannot just add -eth to the ends of words to make them Shakespearean. But I digress.
Is it too much to ask for a romance where the couple plays the parts of Romeo and Juliet and aren't bumbling lovesick teens? This is the second book like this I've read and each time I thought there was something better to be had.
Everything about this book was just too much. She was too mushy, too infatuated. Amanda was too mean, her friends were too supportive (I'm all for a good friendship but this group was almost sickly sweet). I knew it would be cheesy, but it was too cheesy - to the point of annoyance. It was all just too much.
Overall, in case it wasn't clear, not a favourite.
February 6, 2017
This book was absolutely adorable. Think of like the crazy things that happen when you are in high school add in a bit of Shakespeare and of course a really big gesture and you have a wonderfully perfect contemporary story. Shani Petroff did a really great job bringing you to this high school and making you love the characters in this story. You couldn’t help but root for them from the very beginning!
We meet Emily who is head over heels crushing on her neighbor Wes. They’ve been friends forever but she’s too scared to admit to him just how much she likes him. She has this really great plan to do a Shakespeare sketch of Romeo and Juliet just so she can get closer to him. Only problem is she is horrible at English and even worse when it comes to Shakespeare, let’s not forget that she’s only the understudy, the person she dislikes the most is the real Juliet and has lately been all over Wes.
Wes just happens to be completely adorable in every way possible, quite the gentleman and really delightful. If Emily doesn’t snag him quick I might have to keep him in my pocket because he's just that picture-perfect. Talk about really great book boyfriend material!
I love how Emily's friend always have her back no matter what crazy things she wants to do. But let's not cut Emily too short, she was too funny in this book. Emily is the kind of girl you can't help but notice and not always for good things but because she puts herself out there for the world to see. Sure sometimes things don't come out the way she expects them but she's fun and she isn't afraid of embarrassing herself at all. She was a very likable character and I would completely be her friend. But again her friends definitely are there for her one hundred percent.
There were so many great scenes in this book and when they butchered Shakespeare it was amazingly and funny-eth. If you are looking for the next great contemporary Yong adult book this is definitely something you have to pick up. Loved every second of it. It was a quick and fun read with characters you can't help but smile at. I literally laughed out loud. Oh the shenanigans that went on in this book were both classic and original. You really never know what crazy thing Emily was going to do next or what was going to happen to her.
I love the cover it really drew me to the book. It's cute, eye catching and charming. The setting and story plot was very addicting, realistic and enjoyable. The writing was splendid, flowed quite nicely and really kept you going. I will definitely be checking more out from this author. Make sure to pick this book up because I promise you will not be disappointed in the least.
We meet Emily who is head over heels crushing on her neighbor Wes. They’ve been friends forever but she’s too scared to admit to him just how much she likes him. She has this really great plan to do a Shakespeare sketch of Romeo and Juliet just so she can get closer to him. Only problem is she is horrible at English and even worse when it comes to Shakespeare, let’s not forget that she’s only the understudy, the person she dislikes the most is the real Juliet and has lately been all over Wes.
Wes just happens to be completely adorable in every way possible, quite the gentleman and really delightful. If Emily doesn’t snag him quick I might have to keep him in my pocket because he's just that picture-perfect. Talk about really great book boyfriend material!
I love how Emily's friend always have her back no matter what crazy things she wants to do. But let's not cut Emily too short, she was too funny in this book. Emily is the kind of girl you can't help but notice and not always for good things but because she puts herself out there for the world to see. Sure sometimes things don't come out the way she expects them but she's fun and she isn't afraid of embarrassing herself at all. She was a very likable character and I would completely be her friend. But again her friends definitely are there for her one hundred percent.
There were so many great scenes in this book and when they butchered Shakespeare it was amazingly and funny-eth. If you are looking for the next great contemporary Yong adult book this is definitely something you have to pick up. Loved every second of it. It was a quick and fun read with characters you can't help but smile at. I literally laughed out loud. Oh the shenanigans that went on in this book were both classic and original. You really never know what crazy thing Emily was going to do next or what was going to happen to her.
I love the cover it really drew me to the book. It's cute, eye catching and charming. The setting and story plot was very addicting, realistic and enjoyable. The writing was splendid, flowed quite nicely and really kept you going. I will definitely be checking more out from this author. Make sure to pick this book up because I promise you will not be disappointed in the least.
February 7, 2017
Emily Stein has had a crush on Wes Rosenthal for as long as she can remember, but somehow or another she always ends up acting like an idiot in front of him. When she learns that he and his girlfriend have broken up and that Wes is planning to audition for the part of Romeo for their English class project of Romeo & Juliet, Emily decides to audition for the part of Juliet. But mean girl Amanda, who also has her sights set on Wes, also auditions and gets the part. Luckily Emily's friend Jill is directing the Romeo & Juliet scene and Emily convinces her to let her be an understudy so she can still hang out with Wes.
Emily thinks she can relax, I mean understudies never really have to go on stage, right? And with Amanda treating her like a gopher during rehearsals on top of her homework and after school job, Emily doesn't really have time to memorize the lines. But she doesn't really need to learn the lines, right?
Then an unforeseen case of appendicitis forces Amanda out of the role and into the hospital and Emily onto the stage in her place. Emily makes a fool of herself but Wes doesn't seem to mind.
Could it be possible that Wes likes her the way Emily likes him? Or is he just being nice? Does Emily really have a chance with the guy of her dreams or will the mean girl get the guy?
I really enjoyed reading Romeo & What's Her Name. Its light, fluffy, and funny - a feel good read. Reading it made me so thankful that I'm no longer an awkward teen crushing on a cute guy.
Parts of this book were really funny (in a good way) while others left me cringing and wanting to crawl under a table, but its realistic to real teen life. After all, most teens aren't like the girls on Pretty Little Liars with their designer label clothes, perfect hair, and endless confidence; real teens have bed head and wear ratty sweats they hope their crushes will never see them in and I loved that this book showed that. I also loved the relationship between Wes and his brother Neal, it was really sweet.
Overall, I thought Romeo & What's Her Name was a cute Contemporary YA Romance. It is a great book to read when you want something that will leave you with a smile on your face.
Emily thinks she can relax, I mean understudies never really have to go on stage, right? And with Amanda treating her like a gopher during rehearsals on top of her homework and after school job, Emily doesn't really have time to memorize the lines. But she doesn't really need to learn the lines, right?
Then an unforeseen case of appendicitis forces Amanda out of the role and into the hospital and Emily onto the stage in her place. Emily makes a fool of herself but Wes doesn't seem to mind.
Could it be possible that Wes likes her the way Emily likes him? Or is he just being nice? Does Emily really have a chance with the guy of her dreams or will the mean girl get the guy?
I really enjoyed reading Romeo & What's Her Name. Its light, fluffy, and funny - a feel good read. Reading it made me so thankful that I'm no longer an awkward teen crushing on a cute guy.
Parts of this book were really funny (in a good way) while others left me cringing and wanting to crawl under a table, but its realistic to real teen life. After all, most teens aren't like the girls on Pretty Little Liars with their designer label clothes, perfect hair, and endless confidence; real teens have bed head and wear ratty sweats they hope their crushes will never see them in and I loved that this book showed that. I also loved the relationship between Wes and his brother Neal, it was really sweet.
Overall, I thought Romeo & What's Her Name was a cute Contemporary YA Romance. It is a great book to read when you want something that will leave you with a smile on your face.
January 31, 2016
This book is so dang fun. I laughed so hard at the first acting scene, I cried multiple times, and my stomach and body ached from Emily's stressing over Wes. When a book makes me feel everything I know it's truly magical.
June 12, 2019
Rating: 2 stars
I zipped through this book, partly because I skimmed over some of the narrator's thoughts, descriptions, and many freak outs. The premise was fun-ish, but honestly the narrative reached its conclusion pretty early, and then the plot sort of limps to the finish line. The characters also acted very young; this whole crush thing went way out of proportion, and honestly we didn't really get to see Wes as a character beyond the glowing perfection that is the main character's love goggles. Jill and Kayla were probably the most enjoyable characters, and the best friend relationship was the best one in the novel. This book definitely had potential, but it just didn't work out the way I wanted it to and played out more like a middle school drama than I expected.
I zipped through this book, partly because I skimmed over some of the narrator's thoughts, descriptions, and many freak outs. The premise was fun-ish, but honestly the narrative reached its conclusion pretty early, and then the plot sort of limps to the finish line. The characters also acted very young; this whole crush thing went way out of proportion, and honestly we didn't really get to see Wes as a character beyond the glowing perfection that is the main character's love goggles. Jill and Kayla were probably the most enjoyable characters, and the best friend relationship was the best one in the novel. This book definitely had potential, but it just didn't work out the way I wanted it to and played out more like a middle school drama than I expected.
March 8, 2017
4.5 stars
February 7, 2017
"For never was a story of more woe, than crushing on a boy who doesn't know...."
I went into this one expecting just a cute read about crushes and all the swoon-worthy moments that come from pining over someone in high school. But this one was about so much more and I appreciated the nuanced relationship between Emily and her friends.
Emily has it bad for Wes. From the first chapter, we know that she's probably felt like this for a long time since her and Wes have known each other practically their entire lives since they are neighbors. When Em finds out that he is going to be Romeo in a production involving multiple Shakespearean scenes, she decides to try out as his Juliet. But things don't go as expected when Amanda, her nemesis, gives the final audition and absolutely kills it.
So Em devises a plan to be Amanda's understudy. Just from the synopsis, we gather what eventually does happen - that Emily actually has to perform as Juliet when Amanda winds up in the hospital the day before the big performance. And what happens made me feel so embarrassed for her. Because Emily, bless her, is a klutz who is as mathematically inclined as she is literary challenged. Learning Shakespearean text is hard for her so you can imagine how successful that scene goes! But this is only half of the book.
The other half really takes off when Emily is dealing with the repercussions of such a mortifying performance in front of the entire school. Actually, there's a real funny moment at the cast party that makes you feel so bad for her yet makes her so endearing. Of course, this is also when we start to see several things: (1) the amazing support friends can give during difficult times; (2) chances lost and won when it comes to miscommunication; and (3) finally realizing that only you can dictate how someone makes you feel or doesn't.
There were so many moments that could have been preachy but weren't and I think the author did an amazing job handling lessons to be learned by young adolescent readers. Honestly, Emily's relationship with Jill and Kayla reminded me of my own strong friendships back in high school. They were the ones who stuck with you through the good times and the bad and who had your back even if you were in the middle of some fight with them (generally, over petty matters).
I also enjoyed the relationship between Emily and Wes. This was a slow-burning romance with events playing out in between which eventually helped bring them closer. And they are perfect for each other, even though they are both too scared or insecure to pledge it to each other right away. I liked that the romance took time to play out.
This is a perfect read for anyone who enjoys contemporary romances with friendships at its core. It also reminded me of well-written books I used to read during my teenage years so I appreciated the nostalgic feeling I had while reading it. Swoon Reads is really stepping it up and I hope you get the chance to check this one out when it comes out next week!
I went into this one expecting just a cute read about crushes and all the swoon-worthy moments that come from pining over someone in high school. But this one was about so much more and I appreciated the nuanced relationship between Emily and her friends.
Emily has it bad for Wes. From the first chapter, we know that she's probably felt like this for a long time since her and Wes have known each other practically their entire lives since they are neighbors. When Em finds out that he is going to be Romeo in a production involving multiple Shakespearean scenes, she decides to try out as his Juliet. But things don't go as expected when Amanda, her nemesis, gives the final audition and absolutely kills it.
So Em devises a plan to be Amanda's understudy. Just from the synopsis, we gather what eventually does happen - that Emily actually has to perform as Juliet when Amanda winds up in the hospital the day before the big performance. And what happens made me feel so embarrassed for her. Because Emily, bless her, is a klutz who is as mathematically inclined as she is literary challenged. Learning Shakespearean text is hard for her so you can imagine how successful that scene goes! But this is only half of the book.
The other half really takes off when Emily is dealing with the repercussions of such a mortifying performance in front of the entire school. Actually, there's a real funny moment at the cast party that makes you feel so bad for her yet makes her so endearing. Of course, this is also when we start to see several things: (1) the amazing support friends can give during difficult times; (2) chances lost and won when it comes to miscommunication; and (3) finally realizing that only you can dictate how someone makes you feel or doesn't.
There were so many moments that could have been preachy but weren't and I think the author did an amazing job handling lessons to be learned by young adolescent readers. Honestly, Emily's relationship with Jill and Kayla reminded me of my own strong friendships back in high school. They were the ones who stuck with you through the good times and the bad and who had your back even if you were in the middle of some fight with them (generally, over petty matters).
I also enjoyed the relationship between Emily and Wes. This was a slow-burning romance with events playing out in between which eventually helped bring them closer. And they are perfect for each other, even though they are both too scared or insecure to pledge it to each other right away. I liked that the romance took time to play out.
This is a perfect read for anyone who enjoys contemporary romances with friendships at its core. It also reminded me of well-written books I used to read during my teenage years so I appreciated the nostalgic feeling I had while reading it. Swoon Reads is really stepping it up and I hope you get the chance to check this one out when it comes out next week!
February 20, 2017
I was able to snag an ARC of Romeo from a fellow reader and boy, am I glad I did. Romeo and What's Her Name is a fun, amusing read that makes you both cheer *and* cringe for Emily as she attempts to maneuver herself closer and closer to her longtime crush, Wes.
Every time you think she's finally going to nudge their non-existent, yet hopeful relationship along, something happens, causing things to repeatedly go awry. (It was almost like watching someone you're great friends with walk straight for a mud puddle and hoping they don't fall in, but knowing they're going to, anyway, and right in front of everybody; then seeing them get up, dust themselves off, and... walk right straight toward another puddle.) Between the whole on-stage thing, the social media snafu, and quite a few other moments, I laughed out loud quite a few times.
Romeo and What's Her Name is a great, fluffy, HEA read that'll leave you wanting more (in a good way, of course). It would be a great gift for that special someone who loves light romantic contemp YA, *and* for your own bookshelf as well. :D I am definitely ordering a copy of this so I can push it on as many people as possible!
Can't wait to read more by Shani Petrol.
Every time you think she's finally going to nudge their non-existent, yet hopeful relationship along, something happens, causing things to repeatedly go awry. (It was almost like watching someone you're great friends with walk straight for a mud puddle and hoping they don't fall in, but knowing they're going to, anyway, and right in front of everybody; then seeing them get up, dust themselves off, and... walk right straight toward another puddle.) Between the whole on-stage thing, the social media snafu, and quite a few other moments, I laughed out loud quite a few times.
Romeo and What's Her Name is a great, fluffy, HEA read that'll leave you wanting more (in a good way, of course). It would be a great gift for that special someone who loves light romantic contemp YA, *and* for your own bookshelf as well. :D I am definitely ordering a copy of this so I can push it on as many people as possible!
Can't wait to read more by Shani Petrol.
March 13, 2017
EDIT: Changed it to 1.5 stars because I haven't posted the review yet, but this was kind of a waste of time looking back and the only POC character in an otherwise white, heterosexual cis-gendered high school story is the mean girl.
LOOK AROUND PEOPLE. In my school, I walk across the hallway and see kids ranging in culture, sexuality, gender, and body type. And you're saying the only POC you're gonna put in this book is the bitchy one who throws a fit at the white main character? Thanks, but no thanks.
1.5 stars
Fun, flirty, and flighty. Really really light and superficial and fun.
But too many negative tropes for contemporary, especially the "mean girl" stereotype.
LOOK AROUND PEOPLE. In my school, I walk across the hallway and see kids ranging in culture, sexuality, gender, and body type. And you're saying the only POC you're gonna put in this book is the bitchy one who throws a fit at the white main character? Thanks, but no thanks.
1.5 stars
Fun, flirty, and flighty. Really really light and superficial and fun.
But too many negative tropes for contemporary, especially the "mean girl" stereotype.
March 31, 2016
mushy, corny, cute, and fluffy all rolled into one little story. it made me laugh and cringe at the same time.
February 4, 2018
¡Me encantó este libro!
Por alguna extraña razón me sentí identificada con Emily ya que, al igual que yo, tiende a analizar más de la cuenta todo lo que pasa (en especial con su crush).
Amé que su grupo de amigas fuera tan leal entre todas y que se ayudaran mutuamente en todo lo que necesitaran, me recordó mucho a mi propio grupo de amigas.
Y Wes... ¡Amo a ese chico! Era la persona más tierna, comprensiva y amorosa del mundo. Me desesperaba un poco el hecho que le costara decir que no, pero era tan buena persona que le perdono todo.
Nada más que decir que es un libro 100% recomendable, en especial para leer en una tarde de verano.
Por alguna extraña razón me sentí identificada con Emily ya que, al igual que yo, tiende a analizar más de la cuenta todo lo que pasa (en especial con su crush).
Amé que su grupo de amigas fuera tan leal entre todas y que se ayudaran mutuamente en todo lo que necesitaran, me recordó mucho a mi propio grupo de amigas.
Y Wes... ¡Amo a ese chico! Era la persona más tierna, comprensiva y amorosa del mundo. Me desesperaba un poco el hecho que le costara decir que no, pero era tan buena persona que le perdono todo.
Nada más que decir que es un libro 100% recomendable, en especial para leer en una tarde de verano.
February 9, 2017
Original review: A Novel Glimpse
Romeo & What's Her Name is one of those sinfully sweet young adult novels. The drama in this book was over the top and a lot of fun. I found myself laughing or smiling often. The book was also really quickly paced. It made the story feel like it was moving in real-time. I was so involved in the story that I didn't put the book down. I read it in one sitting.
I felt a kinship with Emily. There was something about her that reminded me of my younger self. Maybe it was her awkwardness and lack of self-esteem. Maybe it was the fact that if something stupid was going to happen, it happened to her. Whatever it was, it made me fall in love with her character. Emily was just so dang awkward! It made her adorable.
Emily's infatuation with Wes was cute. It helped that Wes was such a nice guy. He was the hottest thing at her school, yet he made time to make everyone feel special. I loved that he didn't seem to have a big ego like most guys with his popularity status would. His interactions with Emily and all of the other people around him were cute.
One of the things I loved most about Romeo & What's Her Name was the relationship between Emily and her friends, Kayla and Jill. They were all so supportive of each other. They stood up for each other and pushed each other in positive ways. I especially loved all of their scheming together. Oh, and I have to mention I loved Emily's mom's part in this book. A strong parent-child relationship is always a plus in a YA book.
If you're looking for a sweet YA contemporary romance, Romeo & What's Her Name would be the perfect book to read.
Romeo & What's Her Name is one of those sinfully sweet young adult novels. The drama in this book was over the top and a lot of fun. I found myself laughing or smiling often. The book was also really quickly paced. It made the story feel like it was moving in real-time. I was so involved in the story that I didn't put the book down. I read it in one sitting.
I felt a kinship with Emily. There was something about her that reminded me of my younger self. Maybe it was her awkwardness and lack of self-esteem. Maybe it was the fact that if something stupid was going to happen, it happened to her. Whatever it was, it made me fall in love with her character. Emily was just so dang awkward! It made her adorable.
Emily's infatuation with Wes was cute. It helped that Wes was such a nice guy. He was the hottest thing at her school, yet he made time to make everyone feel special. I loved that he didn't seem to have a big ego like most guys with his popularity status would. His interactions with Emily and all of the other people around him were cute.
One of the things I loved most about Romeo & What's Her Name was the relationship between Emily and her friends, Kayla and Jill. They were all so supportive of each other. They stood up for each other and pushed each other in positive ways. I especially loved all of their scheming together. Oh, and I have to mention I loved Emily's mom's part in this book. A strong parent-child relationship is always a plus in a YA book.
If you're looking for a sweet YA contemporary romance, Romeo & What's Her Name would be the perfect book to read.
July 3, 2019
I laughed out loud in public while reading this book! Emily is a delightful heroine who manages to say the worst thing at the wrong moments in front of her crush. When she told him about stuffing tissues in her bra because her boobs grew unevenly—I might have peed a little, I laughed so hard. She slayed Shakespeare’s words in the funniest way as the worst understudy of all time. Her two besties are charming and supportive. Her crush, Wes, is a hottie and a sweetie. It’s funny, witty, and flirty. I ask-eth, what-eth could you want-eth more?
June 27, 2018
3.5 stars
I really love how Shani Petroff finds a unique voice for her characters .. the story itself is pretty basic and barely any drama happens but it was a fun ride
it's all about Emily who's been crushing on Wes and her attempts to get his attention .. her friends Jill and Kala are goals and I just those two
it was a nice light read and I enjoyed it
I really love how Shani Petroff finds a unique voice for her characters .. the story itself is pretty basic and barely any drama happens but it was a fun ride
it's all about Emily who's been crushing on Wes and her attempts to get his attention .. her friends Jill and Kala are goals and I just those two
it was a nice light read and I enjoyed it
March 17, 2017
I thought this was a super cute, super fast read. I think people in middle school or just starting high school will like it. It's quick, and the characters are light and fun.
Read
February 22, 2017Graded By: Stephanie
Cover Story: Passing Notes
BFF Charm: Yay
Swoonworthy Scale: 5
Talky Talk: Disney Channel Original Movie
Bonus Factors: Best Friends, Shakespeare
Relationship Status: Set Painter
Read the full book report here.
Cover Story: Passing Notes
BFF Charm: Yay
Swoonworthy Scale: 5
Talky Talk: Disney Channel Original Movie
Bonus Factors: Best Friends, Shakespeare
Relationship Status: Set Painter
Read the full book report here.
February 6, 2017
Review originally posted on Mostly YA Lit:
1.5 stars Very mild spoilers for the book.
Romeo and What's Her Name gets an extra half point for making me laugh at two scenes. The author definitely has the ability to write slapstick comedy - and I honestly think she should keep going with that.
The rest of the book was completely predictable, with flat prose and painfully shallow characters. There isn't any growth in any of them. It's like reading the lightest fluff possible - so light that if you breathe a little too hard, the entire story will blow away like dandelion weeds. The prose was cliched ("those giant brown eyes, that little dimple in his right cheek that's so deep you just want to poke it, the chiseled jawline that ought to belong to a Disney Prince" - and that's just on the first page), and I guessed almost every second of the story - except when it was going to end. I considered DNFing at 50 per cent and then again at 60, 70, 80, and 90 - each time thinking the story would end there. But it didn't.
The other issue is that the synopsis deceives you into thinking that this is a book about a girl learning to love Shakespeare. Let me just set that straight right here: it's not about Shakespeare. It's never about a love of literature. That whole thing about her doing the balcony scene of Romeo and Juliet? It only goes on until about 35%! The rest is just the hijinks of Emily trying to get the guy. It reads incredibly young, and sadly there's really nothing that makes Emily likeable or interesting.
What kept me going during this hot mess was a perverse desire to see how this train wreck was going to end. And thank goodness there is a little bit of circularity to the ending. But honestly, this is one of the worst books I've read in awhile. If you're a younger teen or even a middle grade reader who only wants fluff, this might be for you. But I need at least a little weight in my books, and this one has none.
1.5 stars Very mild spoilers for the book.
Romeo and What's Her Name gets an extra half point for making me laugh at two scenes. The author definitely has the ability to write slapstick comedy - and I honestly think she should keep going with that.
The rest of the book was completely predictable, with flat prose and painfully shallow characters. There isn't any growth in any of them. It's like reading the lightest fluff possible - so light that if you breathe a little too hard, the entire story will blow away like dandelion weeds. The prose was cliched ("those giant brown eyes, that little dimple in his right cheek that's so deep you just want to poke it, the chiseled jawline that ought to belong to a Disney Prince" - and that's just on the first page), and I guessed almost every second of the story - except when it was going to end. I considered DNFing at 50 per cent and then again at 60, 70, 80, and 90 - each time thinking the story would end there. But it didn't.
The other issue is that the synopsis deceives you into thinking that this is a book about a girl learning to love Shakespeare. Let me just set that straight right here: it's not about Shakespeare. It's never about a love of literature. That whole thing about her doing the balcony scene of Romeo and Juliet? It only goes on until about 35%! The rest is just the hijinks of Emily trying to get the guy. It reads incredibly young, and sadly there's really nothing that makes Emily likeable or interesting.
What kept me going during this hot mess was a perverse desire to see how this train wreck was going to end. And thank goodness there is a little bit of circularity to the ending. But honestly, this is one of the worst books I've read in awhile. If you're a younger teen or even a middle grade reader who only wants fluff, this might be for you. But I need at least a little weight in my books, and this one has none.
February 2, 2017
I wanna start first with the cover. I personally think it's so pretty! very teen!
This is actually a short read. Pretty thin book but it's packed with a whole lot of happenings. I like how it's paced. It's not very detailed in terms of setting but the things that the characters do are well explained and simple. I especially like that it's very relatable. Embarrassing things always happen. but being a teenager and having something embarrassing happen could be the worst nightmare. I actually remember how I was when I was in highschool when i was reading this. All the crushes, the embarrassing experiences, the mean girls. so nostalgic! and i'm pretty sure young adults can relate or laugh at it too.
this is one of the reasons ya contemporary is so good. because it's something to help you realize that if you mess up, it's still going to be alright. you learn, you move on, and you strike back again.
the book is basically a romantic comedy... full of funny scenes but not really that funny for me. I also dislike the perfectness of Wes. as a character, i think he is awesome. but i just don't like that he doesn't have flaws. it just thought it's not realistic.
speaking of characters, i really really liked Emily. she's very ordinary but very head strong. If anything, I am very jealous with her friendship. i love the bond between all the characters. very well done. the antagonists are good too. but the plot is more of man (should i say woman)vs. society and woman vs. self.
This is a good book, short and sweet! and if you look beyond, Emily is all of us and written for us.
*i won this book as an ARC through goodreads and encouraged to share my thoughts about the book
This is actually a short read. Pretty thin book but it's packed with a whole lot of happenings. I like how it's paced. It's not very detailed in terms of setting but the things that the characters do are well explained and simple. I especially like that it's very relatable. Embarrassing things always happen. but being a teenager and having something embarrassing happen could be the worst nightmare. I actually remember how I was when I was in highschool when i was reading this. All the crushes, the embarrassing experiences, the mean girls. so nostalgic! and i'm pretty sure young adults can relate or laugh at it too.
this is one of the reasons ya contemporary is so good. because it's something to help you realize that if you mess up, it's still going to be alright. you learn, you move on, and you strike back again.
the book is basically a romantic comedy... full of funny scenes but not really that funny for me. I also dislike the perfectness of Wes. as a character, i think he is awesome. but i just don't like that he doesn't have flaws. it just thought it's not realistic.
speaking of characters, i really really liked Emily. she's very ordinary but very head strong. If anything, I am very jealous with her friendship. i love the bond between all the characters. very well done. the antagonists are good too. but the plot is more of man (should i say woman)vs. society and woman vs. self.
This is a good book, short and sweet! and if you look beyond, Emily is all of us and written for us.
*i won this book as an ARC through goodreads and encouraged to share my thoughts about the book
February 23, 2020
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
This was my first of Petroff's books, and I really enjoyed her writing style. Emily decides that the way to get close to her crush, Wes, is the become the understudy Juliet in the school's performance of Romeo and Juliet. Wes, of course, is playing Romeo, and being an understudy, she'll have to be at the practises - and will get some well deserved credit for doing so - but will never have to actually perform. All she needs to to learn the lines, work with the actual Juliet, Amanda, and try not to stare at Wes too much. The problems? The lines aren't that easy to learn; Amanda is a proper diva; and then she ends up in hospital, and Emily is needed to be Juliet - and she's no way prepared. Can she do it, or will she just mess up in front of everyone, and more importantly, in front of Wes?
This book was such an enjoyable and quick read. I loved Emily's character, though she sometimes was a little over the top, but that was just her character. She was silly, and immature at times, but used that as a bit of a mask in order to not get as hurt, especially if Wes doesn't reciprocate her feelings. She is down to earth too, and uses this, and her humour, to get closer to Wes, but it doesn't always work out. All in all, a quick and enjoyable book.
This was my first of Petroff's books, and I really enjoyed her writing style. Emily decides that the way to get close to her crush, Wes, is the become the understudy Juliet in the school's performance of Romeo and Juliet. Wes, of course, is playing Romeo, and being an understudy, she'll have to be at the practises - and will get some well deserved credit for doing so - but will never have to actually perform. All she needs to to learn the lines, work with the actual Juliet, Amanda, and try not to stare at Wes too much. The problems? The lines aren't that easy to learn; Amanda is a proper diva; and then she ends up in hospital, and Emily is needed to be Juliet - and she's no way prepared. Can she do it, or will she just mess up in front of everyone, and more importantly, in front of Wes?
This book was such an enjoyable and quick read. I loved Emily's character, though she sometimes was a little over the top, but that was just her character. She was silly, and immature at times, but used that as a bit of a mask in order to not get as hurt, especially if Wes doesn't reciprocate her feelings. She is down to earth too, and uses this, and her humour, to get closer to Wes, but it doesn't always work out. All in all, a quick and enjoyable book.
July 28, 2019
*Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with an early copy in exchange for an honest review.*
4.5 stars
Romeo and What's Her Name is the story of how Emily just needed some extra English credit, and what resulted. Does that sound boring? How couldst thou say-eth that?
I do believe I have never had such fun reading a contemporary novel. This had so much heart, truth, humor, and "you go girl" moments it's a wonder I didn't burst from happiness.
Finally, a story where the girl is popular, the guy isn't "bad" and snarky, and the friends don't flake.
Sure, it's pretty predictable and lacked character definition, but it didn't need those to create a fun story that stands out among the other muck of the genre.
All I need is a sequel full of Wes and Emily facing life together and having long conversations. Highly enjoyable.
4.5 stars
Romeo and What's Her Name is the story of how Emily just needed some extra English credit, and what resulted. Does that sound boring? How couldst thou say-eth that?
I do believe I have never had such fun reading a contemporary novel. This had so much heart, truth, humor, and "you go girl" moments it's a wonder I didn't burst from happiness.
Finally, a story where the girl is popular, the guy isn't "bad" and snarky, and the friends don't flake.
Sure, it's pretty predictable and lacked character definition, but it didn't need those to create a fun story that stands out among the other muck of the genre.
All I need is a sequel full of Wes and Emily facing life together and having long conversations. Highly enjoyable.
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