First published 2021
In the sun-drenched court of Messina, sharp-tongued Benedick returns from war, ready to resume his battle of wits with the equally clever Beatrice. Their friends hatch a plan to trick these sworn enemies into falling in love. Meanwhile, young Claudio courts the gentle Hero, but jealous schemes threaten to destroy their wedding day. Deception swirls through the palace as characters eavesdrop, scheme, and misunderstand. Some plots bring joy, others near tragedy. Benedick must choose between his pride and his heart. Beatrice faces the same impossible choice. In a world where appearances deceive and words wound, two people who claim to despise love discover they cannot live without it.
Genres: drama, romance, shakespeare, comedy
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Messina
Period: Sun-Drenched Court
Paperback