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Shakespeare's Moon #2
Cold Fire
Set in the magical boarding school of St Francis', Cold Fire centres around a group of teenagers who become involved in the tale of Romeo and Juliet in this contemporary re-telling of the classic story. Meanwhile, four hundred years earlier, a young teacher from Stratford Upon Avon arrives at the school. His name is Will... From the author of The Invisible Hand comes the second book in the spellbinding Shakespeares Moon series.
208 pages, Paperback
Published August 31, 2018
About the author
James Hartley
10 books148 followersJames was born near Liverpool, England. He moved to Singapore when he was seven and has lived in Oman, Thailand, France and Scotland. He now lives in Madrid, Spain, with his wife and two children. He loves writing and reading.
The Invisible Hand, the first book in the Shakespeare´s Moon series was published by Lodestone Books in February 2017. It was born out of his love of Macbeth.
Cold Fire, based on Romeo and Juliet, was published on 31st August, 2018. The third book in the trilogy, The Unexpected, based on Julius Caesar, was published on May 29th, 2020. It's set in the future and ties up the series.
He has also published a short novel, Entanglement, and two short Christmas novellas, The Bigger Picture and The Flight.
James has also written horror under the pen-name AJ Leehart, including The Gorge, Dog Days and Patti.
His first collection of poetry "The Rainy Season" was published by KTP in October 2020. A second, for children, "Diamond Rain" was published in December 2020.
The Invisible Hand, the first book in the Shakespeare´s Moon series was published by Lodestone Books in February 2017. It was born out of his love of Macbeth.
Cold Fire, based on Romeo and Juliet, was published on 31st August, 2018. The third book in the trilogy, The Unexpected, based on Julius Caesar, was published on May 29th, 2020. It's set in the future and ties up the series.
He has also published a short novel, Entanglement, and two short Christmas novellas, The Bigger Picture and The Flight.
James has also written horror under the pen-name AJ Leehart, including The Gorge, Dog Days and Patti.
His first collection of poetry "The Rainy Season" was published by KTP in October 2020. A second, for children, "Diamond Rain" was published in December 2020.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 10, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Once again we visit the magical Scottish boarding school of St Francis’. In the first book, ‘The Invisible Hand‘ we were given a re-telling of Macbeth, this time we are treated to a re-telling of Romeo and Juliet like you have never seen before.
Friends Gillian, Kizzie, Sol, Angela, and Zak are all residents and pupils of the boarding school. Gillian has been having soon issues with her parents are is glad to be back at school. One afternoon a boy appears on the school football pitch naked, he is speaking some strange language which the pupils think might be Latin. Seen as Gillian has studied it they send her to talk to him.
However, not much talking occurs, the two end up kissing. She finds herself pulled to him and him to her. She is warned to stay away from him as he is unnatural, but the two lives have become entangled in the past and they are very much in love in the present too.
I really loved The Invisible Hand, and whilst this book was enjoyable I did prefer the first book, I think it may have something to do with Macbeth being the only Shakespeare play I have studied.
The book is well written and told over the course of one week. The shift between the past and the present is done effortlessly and with a natural flow. The story of Romeo and Juliet came across strongly and this book would be perfect for anyone about to study the play that surrounds young love, a love that is forbidden.
The characters were all warm and easy to like and the setting was written in such a manner that you could easily visualise being at the school, whether in today’s time or 400 years ago.
The books can be read as stand alone as there are no cross-references to the first book. I am now looking forward to seeing which of the Bard’s plays author James Hartley chooses for his next book.
Once again we visit the magical Scottish boarding school of St Francis’. In the first book, ‘The Invisible Hand‘ we were given a re-telling of Macbeth, this time we are treated to a re-telling of Romeo and Juliet like you have never seen before.
Friends Gillian, Kizzie, Sol, Angela, and Zak are all residents and pupils of the boarding school. Gillian has been having soon issues with her parents are is glad to be back at school. One afternoon a boy appears on the school football pitch naked, he is speaking some strange language which the pupils think might be Latin. Seen as Gillian has studied it they send her to talk to him.
However, not much talking occurs, the two end up kissing. She finds herself pulled to him and him to her. She is warned to stay away from him as he is unnatural, but the two lives have become entangled in the past and they are very much in love in the present too.
I really loved The Invisible Hand, and whilst this book was enjoyable I did prefer the first book, I think it may have something to do with Macbeth being the only Shakespeare play I have studied.
The book is well written and told over the course of one week. The shift between the past and the present is done effortlessly and with a natural flow. The story of Romeo and Juliet came across strongly and this book would be perfect for anyone about to study the play that surrounds young love, a love that is forbidden.
The characters were all warm and easy to like and the setting was written in such a manner that you could easily visualise being at the school, whether in today’s time or 400 years ago.
The books can be read as stand alone as there are no cross-references to the first book. I am now looking forward to seeing which of the Bard’s plays author James Hartley chooses for his next book.
September 12, 2018
5☆ A Unique Spin on the Iconic Romeo and Juliet
I was so excited when I found out James Hartley had written a young adults/children take on Romeo and Juliet.
It's one of my favourite Shakespeare novels.
Romeo and Juliet has been remade so many times in films and play but it never has the edge for children to grasp.
That is until Cold Fire!
Cold Fire is a unique take on Romeo and Juliet which is fresh, fun and easy to follow.
Which I think is the 3 components needed when trying to work out Shakespeare.
It makes it relatable and fun to children.
This is the second book in the series and although each story deals with a different Shakespeare story, I do think it's a good idea to read them in order as both books feature the magical boarding school and the characters.
I have high praise for James. I only wish when I was at school I had something like Cold Fire to make Shakespeare cool and to break it down.
Cold Fire is a fantastic book, it mixes fantasy time travel with past and present to bring history to life.
The characters are very relatable.
The length of the book is just right, just long enough to hold and capture the targeted audience attention.
Cold Fire would be the perfect present for young children to read alone, as part of study material, or for discussions.
I would love to see these books in schools.
I highly recommend this book and the series.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website:-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
I was so excited when I found out James Hartley had written a young adults/children take on Romeo and Juliet.
It's one of my favourite Shakespeare novels.
Romeo and Juliet has been remade so many times in films and play but it never has the edge for children to grasp.
That is until Cold Fire!
Cold Fire is a unique take on Romeo and Juliet which is fresh, fun and easy to follow.
Which I think is the 3 components needed when trying to work out Shakespeare.
It makes it relatable and fun to children.
This is the second book in the series and although each story deals with a different Shakespeare story, I do think it's a good idea to read them in order as both books feature the magical boarding school and the characters.
I have high praise for James. I only wish when I was at school I had something like Cold Fire to make Shakespeare cool and to break it down.
Cold Fire is a fantastic book, it mixes fantasy time travel with past and present to bring history to life.
The characters are very relatable.
The length of the book is just right, just long enough to hold and capture the targeted audience attention.
Cold Fire would be the perfect present for young children to read alone, as part of study material, or for discussions.
I would love to see these books in schools.
I highly recommend this book and the series.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website:-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
August 31, 2018
This was great! Actually,it´s my book so I would say that wouldn´t I? But today was publication day and I did re-read it and I´m happy with it. Let´s see what everyone else thinks from now on. The Bangkok Post liked it - theirs was the first review, first thing this morning.
Just in case you´re still reading, this is a retelling of Romeo and Juliet - Romeo turns up naked on the playing fields at Juliet (Gillian´s) school. As a bit of a subplot and backstory, a young guy called Will from Stratford turns up at the same school 400 years before looking for a job. He meets a Dark Lady, a Fair Lord and a Rival Poet.
Oh, go on...you know you want to...
Just in case you´re still reading, this is a retelling of Romeo and Juliet - Romeo turns up naked on the playing fields at Juliet (Gillian´s) school. As a bit of a subplot and backstory, a young guy called Will from Stratford turns up at the same school 400 years before looking for a job. He meets a Dark Lady, a Fair Lord and a Rival Poet.
Oh, go on...you know you want to...
August 30, 2019
This book is incredible, I am jealous of kids today learning Romeo and Juliet at school, having this book as a modern day retelling would have made those dull school days far more interesting. The last 30 pages really came alive and the last paragraph made me put down the book and give it a clap...fireworks going off in my head as I realised just what the words on the page were implying. Very clever stuff Mr Hartley, there was no way I saw that one coming.
It was great to see Sam and Leana from the first book...even though that was briefly, helps you get an idea of how much time has passed. As for the new characters they were a good bunch, I really liked Angela, so alone and with so much to deal with. You also get a great deal of information on the origins of the school and a bit of info on the master (hopefully there is more to come on him). Also explained is the story's obsession with Shakespeare, I did wonder why no other authors get involved and it's quite a nice twist on how his involvement came about.
This is one of those great books that leaves you with a little high and desperate to pick up the next book in the series. If you are a fan of Shakespeare then give this one a go.
Blog review: https://felcherman.wordpress.com/2019...
It was great to see Sam and Leana from the first book...even though that was briefly, helps you get an idea of how much time has passed. As for the new characters they were a good bunch, I really liked Angela, so alone and with so much to deal with. You also get a great deal of information on the origins of the school and a bit of info on the master (hopefully there is more to come on him). Also explained is the story's obsession with Shakespeare, I did wonder why no other authors get involved and it's quite a nice twist on how his involvement came about.
This is one of those great books that leaves you with a little high and desperate to pick up the next book in the series. If you are a fan of Shakespeare then give this one a go.
Blog review: https://felcherman.wordpress.com/2019...
August 30, 2018
I've never read Shakespeare. I've heard all about Romeo and Juliet but I never really read their story. Those who've been reading my reviews for a while know that I can't stand classics. But what if a classic story is transformed into a much cooler, modern and young adult story? That would definitely interest me. And that is what Cold Fire is.
After The Invisible Moon, the book one in the Shakespeare's Moon Series, that recreated the story of Macbeth, author James Hartley has recreated the one and only Romeo and Juliet in his second book, Cold Fire.
I think Cold Fire was so much better than the first book in the term of context. The happenings were clearer here, and there was far less confusion than I'd faced while reading book one.
Gillian and Romeo's story was beautiful, and I loved the fact that there were multiple storylines at work at the same time.
I thoroughly enjoyed Cold Fire and I'm excited to see which Shakespeare novel will be the next one to be modernized by James Hartley.
After The Invisible Moon, the book one in the Shakespeare's Moon Series, that recreated the story of Macbeth, author James Hartley has recreated the one and only Romeo and Juliet in his second book, Cold Fire.
I think Cold Fire was so much better than the first book in the term of context. The happenings were clearer here, and there was far less confusion than I'd faced while reading book one.
Gillian and Romeo's story was beautiful, and I loved the fact that there were multiple storylines at work at the same time.
I thoroughly enjoyed Cold Fire and I'm excited to see which Shakespeare novel will be the next one to be modernized by James Hartley.
October 7, 2018
A tricky one to review in some ways. As the second in the series, elements around the school and how people travel through time felt formulaic though the story itself was focused on new characters which stopped it feeling too repetitive.
With our focus on Romeo and Juliet this time I think it’s a tricky story to tell for a modern audience who are much more dismissive of the idea of instalove and rapid marriage. I did find it hard to take the modern love story seriously, but we got a little more detail about the school and it’s background.
I’m curious to see how the target audience react to this, but it wasn’t really as appealing as I’d hoped. Thanks, though, to NetGalley for granting me access to the title.
With our focus on Romeo and Juliet this time I think it’s a tricky story to tell for a modern audience who are much more dismissive of the idea of instalove and rapid marriage. I did find it hard to take the modern love story seriously, but we got a little more detail about the school and it’s background.
I’m curious to see how the target audience react to this, but it wasn’t really as appealing as I’d hoped. Thanks, though, to NetGalley for granting me access to the title.
June 26, 2020
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
Having struggled with the first in the series I thought I would try the second.
Unfortunately it felt very similar to the first to me although with different characters.
Maybe it's just me but I did not enjoy this at all.
Having struggled with the first in the series I thought I would try the second.
Unfortunately it felt very similar to the first to me although with different characters.
Maybe it's just me but I did not enjoy this at all.
September 6, 2018
Having read the synopsis, I was very intrigued to learn more about this book and indeed series. As I haven’t read the first in the Shakespeare’s Moon series, The Invisible Hand, I had very little idea of what to expect but it sounded, at the very least, like an original concept - not just in the re-telling of a classic Shakespeare play but the way in which it is done.
What I found was a highly creative and often fantastical take on the story of Romeo and Juliet - or Gillian, in this case - set in a very unusual boarding school and populated by a cast of characters (with a diverse range of multinational literary names: Sol Kerouac, Alain Verne, Miss Tartt and many more, including some far more obscure).
The school itself was a fascinating mix of the mundane (normal teenagers doing normal things) and the mysterious, magical and faintly sinister (the Magistrate, the Writers). It took me a long time to reach any kind of understanding of the nature of the school... had I read the first book, this would presumably have been slightly easier, but I actually didn’t mind at all as it generated an enigmatic atmosphere which sent my mind frequently spinning in all directions.
While Gillian, Kizzie, Angela, Zak and the rest deal with baffling events in the present day, the story is intercut with scenes from over four hundred years earlier, when a young writer undergoes some deeply strange experiences of his own (meeting a certain dark lady in the process)... and indeed past and present aren’t always so far apart....
There are a lot of literary references here and I quite often found myself heading off to Google in order to better understand certain things. I like that in a book.
Cold Fire was an unusual, absorbing and very thought-provoking read.
What I found was a highly creative and often fantastical take on the story of Romeo and Juliet - or Gillian, in this case - set in a very unusual boarding school and populated by a cast of characters (with a diverse range of multinational literary names: Sol Kerouac, Alain Verne, Miss Tartt and many more, including some far more obscure).
The school itself was a fascinating mix of the mundane (normal teenagers doing normal things) and the mysterious, magical and faintly sinister (the Magistrate, the Writers). It took me a long time to reach any kind of understanding of the nature of the school... had I read the first book, this would presumably have been slightly easier, but I actually didn’t mind at all as it generated an enigmatic atmosphere which sent my mind frequently spinning in all directions.
While Gillian, Kizzie, Angela, Zak and the rest deal with baffling events in the present day, the story is intercut with scenes from over four hundred years earlier, when a young writer undergoes some deeply strange experiences of his own (meeting a certain dark lady in the process)... and indeed past and present aren’t always so far apart....
There are a lot of literary references here and I quite often found myself heading off to Google in order to better understand certain things. I like that in a book.
Cold Fire was an unusual, absorbing and very thought-provoking read.
May 3, 2019
Cold Fire is book 2 in Harley's Shakespeare's Moon series. The first had themes and elements of the play Macbeth. This time, Romeo and Juliet is the theme.
I enjoyed this one a bit more than the first. I think because I knew what to expect this time and I found the introduction of Shakespeare himself to be kind of cool.
The main characters, of which there were several, are different from the previous work though Sam and Leana do make an appearance.
This time no one travels into the plot of the play, at least not until later in the series, but we do meet Shakespeare and see the founding of the school, the origin of the book, and how a pair of interlocking trees are formed.
I don't think it's necessary to have read the previous book but I think it will enhance ones enjoyment of this book.
I enjoyed this one a bit more than the first. I think because I knew what to expect this time and I found the introduction of Shakespeare himself to be kind of cool.
The main characters, of which there were several, are different from the previous work though Sam and Leana do make an appearance.
This time no one travels into the plot of the play, at least not until later in the series, but we do meet Shakespeare and see the founding of the school, the origin of the book, and how a pair of interlocking trees are formed.
I don't think it's necessary to have read the previous book but I think it will enhance ones enjoyment of this book.
November 6, 2018
Full review: http://swiftcoffee.blog/2018/10/31/co...
After finishing the book I had a strong feeling of 'I don't know what I've just read'. I couldn't even decide if I meant it in a good way or in a bad way. I decided to review it at least a day later because I felt like this all had to settle a bit inside me before I can express everything I think and feel about it.
After a day given to thoughts, I think this was because this book creates such a strong atmosphere, and it's one that I felt a bit weird, if not uncomfortable in. I know this probably doesn't sound good, but I honestly mean it in the best way possible. There's a magic in this book that's wonderful and somehow creepy at the same time. It's perhaps because it's used for not-so-good things in this particular novel. The workings of this magic (I mean it's actual magic!) were at times foggy for me, but I think the reason is that I haven't read the first volume in the series. It's supposed to work out separately and it does, I understood everything, but I think I would have felt more comfortable in it (yes, I imagine myself getting lost in books...literally) if I read the 'Act I' before. The story was all clear even like this, though.
The absolute best thing about this book is that it's so eloquently written. I also like the idea of in a way 'remixing' Shakespeare's plays, yet remaining by the utmost respect for his work and person. This book kind of rewrites Romeo and Juliet, yet it gives an interesting insight to it and it's way more than merely retelling the original story. It mixes history with the present, old ways and modern, our normal world with a magical one. I loved to see some lines that are a modern wording of the original play, but I also loved that it was only a small part of the book, so it didn't lack originality. It didn't lack it at all! I have to admit, though, that I found the story a bit weird and I'm not sure that things that worked back in Shakespeare's time are things that are believable to be happening nowadays. I get the purpose of 'insta-love' in this case, of course, this story is centering around R&J! I get that. I'm not sure I've ever been a 100% okay with the original play regarding this, either, so that might be my problem here. I know these are naiv, passionate and crazy teenagers running around, but I couldn't really identify with their feelings and acts even when I was a naiv, passionate and crazy teenager myself. But that's just something I have to go with in this case, I can't blame the original story on the retelling, can't I? And this is a very well worked-out book.
While I found the story and the book in general a very good work, the characters fell a bit flat for me. They weren't bad, I could see something in many of them, but they weren't the best of this book. Also, I several times felt like the kids' problems and thoughts are a little stereotyped and I think at times my tween self would've found herself lectured. It wasn't really such big of a deal, only happened one or two times but I felt like I should mention it. I'm also not sure how I should categorize this book: YA or tween or what? It's aimed at teenagers, I think both in later and earlier years of ages, and the main characters are far from growing up, but this book had a darker atmosphere than usually books aimed at tweens have, so I go with YA here. It was perfectly enjoyable as an adult, too!
After finishing the book I had a strong feeling of 'I don't know what I've just read'. I couldn't even decide if I meant it in a good way or in a bad way. I decided to review it at least a day later because I felt like this all had to settle a bit inside me before I can express everything I think and feel about it.
After a day given to thoughts, I think this was because this book creates such a strong atmosphere, and it's one that I felt a bit weird, if not uncomfortable in. I know this probably doesn't sound good, but I honestly mean it in the best way possible. There's a magic in this book that's wonderful and somehow creepy at the same time. It's perhaps because it's used for not-so-good things in this particular novel. The workings of this magic (I mean it's actual magic!) were at times foggy for me, but I think the reason is that I haven't read the first volume in the series. It's supposed to work out separately and it does, I understood everything, but I think I would have felt more comfortable in it (yes, I imagine myself getting lost in books...literally) if I read the 'Act I' before. The story was all clear even like this, though.
The absolute best thing about this book is that it's so eloquently written. I also like the idea of in a way 'remixing' Shakespeare's plays, yet remaining by the utmost respect for his work and person. This book kind of rewrites Romeo and Juliet, yet it gives an interesting insight to it and it's way more than merely retelling the original story. It mixes history with the present, old ways and modern, our normal world with a magical one. I loved to see some lines that are a modern wording of the original play, but I also loved that it was only a small part of the book, so it didn't lack originality. It didn't lack it at all! I have to admit, though, that I found the story a bit weird and I'm not sure that things that worked back in Shakespeare's time are things that are believable to be happening nowadays. I get the purpose of 'insta-love' in this case, of course, this story is centering around R&J! I get that. I'm not sure I've ever been a 100% okay with the original play regarding this, either, so that might be my problem here. I know these are naiv, passionate and crazy teenagers running around, but I couldn't really identify with their feelings and acts even when I was a naiv, passionate and crazy teenager myself. But that's just something I have to go with in this case, I can't blame the original story on the retelling, can't I? And this is a very well worked-out book.
While I found the story and the book in general a very good work, the characters fell a bit flat for me. They weren't bad, I could see something in many of them, but they weren't the best of this book. Also, I several times felt like the kids' problems and thoughts are a little stereotyped and I think at times my tween self would've found herself lectured. It wasn't really such big of a deal, only happened one or two times but I felt like I should mention it. I'm also not sure how I should categorize this book: YA or tween or what? It's aimed at teenagers, I think both in later and earlier years of ages, and the main characters are far from growing up, but this book had a darker atmosphere than usually books aimed at tweens have, so I go with YA here. It was perfectly enjoyable as an adult, too!
September 8, 2018
Life at a modern boarding school weaves through an intricate web of love, mystery and teenage uncertainty in this fresh and slightly edgy retelling of Romeo and Juliet.
This isn't a simple retelling of Romeo and Juliet in more modern times, but rather the author has created a mystical, mysterious and an emotional tale which brings the Shakespearean masterpiece to a level fitting modern day minds. Set in a boarding school in Scotland, the story concentrates not only on Gillian and Romeo but rotates around an entire group, allowing for several stories to flow simultaneously. Included in this is the tale of a teacher from 400 years before and his experiences, which shadow similarities to that of the main characters. It's an intriguing mix, which adds just the right amount of mystery and magic to grab and hold without becoming overpowering.
I didn't read the first book in the series, which might have explained some foggy points surrounding the school. But this was by no means an issue. It was easy to dive into the characters and plot, and can be read as a stand alone without any problems. The first pages grab and let Gillian and some of her problems as well as personality come to light. The next chapters continue with a gasp of boredom into the next scenes and keep the pace high. The story includes that of several characters, a switch which runs smoothly and without confusion. This constant motion, however, did create a little lack of character depth, especially in the first chapters. But the pages hooked, and it was no problem to read this in one sitting.
Summed up, this is a lovely retelling which offers modern day teens a refreshing and grabbing way to dive into a classical story. It will be interesting to see which of Shakespeare's tales the author brings life to next.
I received a complimentary copy and found the retelling so nicely done that I wanted to leave my honest thoughts.
This isn't a simple retelling of Romeo and Juliet in more modern times, but rather the author has created a mystical, mysterious and an emotional tale which brings the Shakespearean masterpiece to a level fitting modern day minds. Set in a boarding school in Scotland, the story concentrates not only on Gillian and Romeo but rotates around an entire group, allowing for several stories to flow simultaneously. Included in this is the tale of a teacher from 400 years before and his experiences, which shadow similarities to that of the main characters. It's an intriguing mix, which adds just the right amount of mystery and magic to grab and hold without becoming overpowering.
I didn't read the first book in the series, which might have explained some foggy points surrounding the school. But this was by no means an issue. It was easy to dive into the characters and plot, and can be read as a stand alone without any problems. The first pages grab and let Gillian and some of her problems as well as personality come to light. The next chapters continue with a gasp of boredom into the next scenes and keep the pace high. The story includes that of several characters, a switch which runs smoothly and without confusion. This constant motion, however, did create a little lack of character depth, especially in the first chapters. But the pages hooked, and it was no problem to read this in one sitting.
Summed up, this is a lovely retelling which offers modern day teens a refreshing and grabbing way to dive into a classical story. It will be interesting to see which of Shakespeare's tales the author brings life to next.
I received a complimentary copy and found the retelling so nicely done that I wanted to leave my honest thoughts.
July 12, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Cold Fire: Shakespeare's Moon in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
James Hartley weaves a captivating tale in Cold Fire: Shakespeare's Moon. This novel, the second in the Shakespeare's Moon series, masterfully intertwines the timeless themes of Shakespeare's works with a modern-day setting.
The Details
The story revolves around a mysterious boarding school where the boundaries between reality and the supernatural blur. Hartley's writing is both engaging and thought-provoking, drawing readers into a world where Shakespearean motifs come alive in unexpected ways.
The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their own struggles and secrets. The protagonist's journey is particularly compelling, as they navigate the complexities of friendship, love, and identity.
Hartley's ability to blend classic literature with contemporary issues makes this book a standout. While the pacing may feel slow at times, the rich narrative and intricate plot twists more than make up for it.
The Verdict
Overall, Cold Fire: Shakespeare's Moon is a must-read for fans of Shakespeare and fantasy alike. Hartley's storytelling prowess and deep understanding of Shakespearean themes shine through, making this novel a delightful and memorable read.
September 6, 2018
Romeo and Juliet, that iconic Shakespearean tale of tragic young lovers, has been given a contemporary feel in Cold Fire which I am sure will appeal to young adult readers in a very relevant way. The story is set in St Francis’ which is a Scottish boarding school and even though it’s an enchanted sort of place, the pupils there are filled with the same sort of angst that teenagers the world over have experienced at one time or another. Young love, unrequited love, warring parents, peer rivalry, it’s all there in abundance, but what’s also fascinating is the way that the author has directed the story along the lines of Romeo and Juliet, a play we know so well, and yet, he has given it a slightly edgier feel, which I think works really well. Add into the mix the story of Will from Stratford who arrives at the school some 400 years earlier to look for work, and you have the excitement of the bard himself adding his own distinct personality to the pages.
The idea of making Shakespeare more accessible to younger readers is a great idea and the author does a great job of making the story both relevant and interesting to a younger audience. The story is written with great enthusiasm and the intertwining of the past with the present, whilst at the same time keeping the integrity of the original story, is to the author’s credit and works really well.
I have read The Invisible Hand, the author’s first novel in the Shakespeare’s Moon series, which is also set at St Francis but which focuses on the story of Macbeth, and I think that Cold Fire is a fine continuation of the theme.
The idea of making Shakespeare more accessible to younger readers is a great idea and the author does a great job of making the story both relevant and interesting to a younger audience. The story is written with great enthusiasm and the intertwining of the past with the present, whilst at the same time keeping the integrity of the original story, is to the author’s credit and works really well.
I have read The Invisible Hand, the author’s first novel in the Shakespeare’s Moon series, which is also set at St Francis but which focuses on the story of Macbeth, and I think that Cold Fire is a fine continuation of the theme.
October 12, 2018
Rating 4/5
This is book 2 of James Hartley's Shakespeare series which can be read as a stand alone novel. This one focused on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
Our Juliet is Gillian who falls for a strange boy who appears suddenly on the school's football field absolutely naked (Romeo). He also speaks a different language and when Gillian is sent to talk with him, they end up kissing instead. She is forbidden to stay with him, but forces that intertwined them in their pasts comes back to reunite them now in the present.
This was an enjoyable novel that any one who has read or studied Romeo and Juliet will be able to appreciate as well. It is so well written and weaved seamlessly the aspect of young, forbidden love that even those who have never read Romeo and Juliet will be able to understand and learn to love these characters. It's storyline design of using time travel makes history fun for those of a younger age to learn and read about.
This is book 2 of James Hartley's Shakespeare series which can be read as a stand alone novel. This one focused on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
Our Juliet is Gillian who falls for a strange boy who appears suddenly on the school's football field absolutely naked (Romeo). He also speaks a different language and when Gillian is sent to talk with him, they end up kissing instead. She is forbidden to stay with him, but forces that intertwined them in their pasts comes back to reunite them now in the present.
This was an enjoyable novel that any one who has read or studied Romeo and Juliet will be able to appreciate as well. It is so well written and weaved seamlessly the aspect of young, forbidden love that even those who have never read Romeo and Juliet will be able to understand and learn to love these characters. It's storyline design of using time travel makes history fun for those of a younger age to learn and read about.
September 15, 2018
I loved The Invisible Hand (Act I) so much so that I really really wanted to read the next instalment. These can be read as a standalone, some of the characters are the same, but you learn nothing of their history in the other books. I quite liked it this way.
In Act II there really are too many character’s to mention. The 2 that stood out the most for me was The Master, he is in the past and the present, so I’m not quite sure what his part is in all of this yet but I’m hoping I shall find out in the next books. There is of course, the man himself, Will Shakespeare. Who starts to teach at the school in the past. He has just wrote Romeo and Juliet and it is based on the star crossed lovers that found themselves with some help. I love the way these books flow between the past and the present, it just works.
Everything was quite fast paced in this book and didn’t dilly dally like some I’ve read in the past. I prefer books, where the authors have just got stuck in and keeps you gripped from beginning to end. Although I know this isn’t the end as there are still so many Shakespeare plays to get through.
I do feel that this series has quite a supernatural feel to it and I really hope it all ties together, obviously I can’t say too much as I really don’t want there to be any spoilers. All I can say is, read them both!!! I’m giving Cold Fire a well deserved 4/5 rating. Keep them coming James!
In Act II there really are too many character’s to mention. The 2 that stood out the most for me was The Master, he is in the past and the present, so I’m not quite sure what his part is in all of this yet but I’m hoping I shall find out in the next books. There is of course, the man himself, Will Shakespeare. Who starts to teach at the school in the past. He has just wrote Romeo and Juliet and it is based on the star crossed lovers that found themselves with some help. I love the way these books flow between the past and the present, it just works.
Everything was quite fast paced in this book and didn’t dilly dally like some I’ve read in the past. I prefer books, where the authors have just got stuck in and keeps you gripped from beginning to end. Although I know this isn’t the end as there are still so many Shakespeare plays to get through.
I do feel that this series has quite a supernatural feel to it and I really hope it all ties together, obviously I can’t say too much as I really don’t want there to be any spoilers. All I can say is, read them both!!! I’m giving Cold Fire a well deserved 4/5 rating. Keep them coming James!
September 26, 2018
Rating 4/5
This is book 2 of James Hartley's Shakespeare series which can be read as a stand alone novel. This one focused on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
Our Juliet is Gillian who falls for a strange boy who appears suddenly on the school's football field absolutely naked (Romeo). He also speaks a different language and when Gillian is sent to talk with him, they end up kissing instead. She is forbidden to stay with him, but forces that intertwined them in their pasts comes back to reunite them now in the present.
This was an enjoyable novel that any one who has read or studied Romeo and Juliet will be able to appreciate as well. It is so well written and weaved seamlessly the aspect of young, forbidden love that even those who have never read Romeo and Juliet will be able to understand and learn to love these characters. It's storyline design of using time travel makes history fun for those of a younger age to learn and read about.
This is book 2 of James Hartley's Shakespeare series which can be read as a stand alone novel. This one focused on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
Our Juliet is Gillian who falls for a strange boy who appears suddenly on the school's football field absolutely naked (Romeo). He also speaks a different language and when Gillian is sent to talk with him, they end up kissing instead. She is forbidden to stay with him, but forces that intertwined them in their pasts comes back to reunite them now in the present.
This was an enjoyable novel that any one who has read or studied Romeo and Juliet will be able to appreciate as well. It is so well written and weaved seamlessly the aspect of young, forbidden love that even those who have never read Romeo and Juliet will be able to understand and learn to love these characters. It's storyline design of using time travel makes history fun for those of a younger age to learn and read about.
February 5, 2019
Back to the boarding school of St Francis’. We are given a retelling of Romeo and Juliet as you have never seen before. This is a great story and the shift between the past and the present is done really well, its also good to have the different points of view on this classic tale. If you like Shakespeare you will like this retelling.
February 14, 2019
I am reviewing this book for James Hartley, and NetGalley who gave me a copy of their book for an honest review.
I liked the way Romeo and Juliet was retold in the present day and this is from a person who isn’t a fan of Shakespeare.
I liked the way Romeo and Juliet was retold in the present day and this is from a person who isn’t a fan of Shakespeare.
October 25, 2018
This book isn't for everyone. I found it very dull and uninteresting. It didn't keep my attention and the characters seemed shallow.
September 9, 2018
Cold Fire
By James Hartley
5 stars
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Book Blog.
When I first read the blurb for this book I was so excited to get started, I love Romeo and Juliet - it was the first Shakespeare play I ever read and I still love it to today. Recently I’ve been reading a lot of re-tellings of fairy tales so I was looking forward to reading this and I wasn’t disappointed at all. I loved everything about it. The author did an amazing job of telling the story with a modern twists, I loved all the mystery involved and there were some great twists and turns.
I loved Gillian and Romeo’s story, it was told so beautifully.
I haven’t read anything by this author before but I truly was captivated by his beautiful writing, it flowed nicely and I absolutely must read the other boos in this series now!
I absolutely recommend this book and it definitely deserves the 5 stars that I give it!
By James Hartley
5 stars
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Book Blog.
When I first read the blurb for this book I was so excited to get started, I love Romeo and Juliet - it was the first Shakespeare play I ever read and I still love it to today. Recently I’ve been reading a lot of re-tellings of fairy tales so I was looking forward to reading this and I wasn’t disappointed at all. I loved everything about it. The author did an amazing job of telling the story with a modern twists, I loved all the mystery involved and there were some great twists and turns.
I loved Gillian and Romeo’s story, it was told so beautifully.
I haven’t read anything by this author before but I truly was captivated by his beautiful writing, it flowed nicely and I absolutely must read the other boos in this series now!
I absolutely recommend this book and it definitely deserves the 5 stars that I give it!
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