2021 Most Anticipated - Roman and Jewel

The next book on my 2021 most anticipated list asks the question of what if Romeo and Juliet got the Hamilton treatment. This romantic sounding story is told against the backdrop of New York City which instantly made me want to read it.

Romeo and Jewel by Dana L Davis is the next book on my 2021 most anticipated list.

The Goodreads synopsis makes this sound incredible and I am intrigued by what seems like a backstage look at making a hit Broadway play. 

If Romeo and Juliet got the Hamilton treatment...who would play the leads? This vividly funny, honest, and charming romantic novel by Dana L. Davis is the story of a girl who thinks she has what it takes...and the world thinks so, too.

Jerzie Jhames will do anything to land the lead role in Broadway's hottest new show, Roman and Jewel, a Romeo and Juliet inspired hip-hopera featuring a diverse cast and modern twists on the play. But her hopes are crushed when she learns mega-star Cinny won the lead...and Jerzie is her understudy.

Falling for male lead Zeppelin Reid is a terrible idea--especially once Jerzie learns Cinny wants him for herself. Star-crossed love always ends badly. But when a video of Jerzie and Zepp practicing goes viral and the entire world weighs in on who should play Jewel, Jerzie learns that while the price of fame is high, friendship, family, and love are priceless.

I love absolutely everything about the synopsis and cannot wait to see how this romance unfolds.

Dana has kindly taken the time to answer a few questions about the book, her inspirations, and some tasty sounding drinks.

1. What gif do you feel best represents Roman and Jewel?

2 If someone were to make a signature drink in honour of your book, what might be included?

Hmm. Definitely something sweet for Jerzie, sour for Cinny and a little spicy for Zeppelin. Like a super sour lemonade in a glass with a sugared rim and like a Thai Chile to garnish. Yum!

3 Romeo and Juliet is probably the play from Shakespeare that has inspired the most retellings/adaptations. What about Romeo and Juliet inspired you to write Roman and Jewel?

I wanted to explore a deeper meaning of insta-love! We judge it. We sometimes roll our eyes at it. But the truth is…it happens! We oftentimes see someone and feel this…thing. This connection that makes no sense. I wanted to create a story behind that overwhelming connection some of us are lucky enough to experience.

4 Your book references a performance of Romeo and Juliet that has been given the Hamilton treatment. What song from Hamilton is your favourite?

I was in this bubble of really hard work and had barely watched TV or listened to music or anything really. I was so burned out. That’s when my mom said she’d babysit for me and urged me to go see a show so I could have a break. Hamilton was playing—literally never even heard of it. So I go and see this show and had the privilege of not knowing what it was about. Not knowing anything about it to be honest. That all being said, my favorite song has to be “Here Comes the General.” Because when George Washington came out onto the stage and he was Black, I was in awe. I started crying! It was such a special moment to realize this actor was playing George Washington. To see such a surprise representation of color on stage. I’ll never forget it.

5 What is one song that made your playlist while writing Roman and Jewel?

A Couple of Forevers by Chrisette Michele. It’s such a sweet song. It’s perfect for Jerzie and Zeppelin. A close runner-up is Best Part by HER and Daniel Caesar. These songs just make you feel like falling in love.

6 What 2021 release are you most anticipating?

The Golem and the Jinni book two by Helene Wecker! It’s called The Hidden Palace. I’ve been waiting years for this book.

7 If not too spoilery, can you share the first line of Roman and Jewel?

What’s in a name? 😊

Anyone else smile at that first line? It's obviously perfect for the story and it makes me excited to see what other Romeo and Juliet teases are woven into the story.

Roman and Jewel releases January 5, 2021 so it is definitely one to spend your holiday gift cards on.

Chapters // Amazon // Barnes and Noble // BAM

You can find out more about Dana and her books by following her on Twitter. You can also find out more about her books on the publisher website.

Be sure to stop by tomorrow to for the next book on my 2021 most anticipated list.