As a broadway nerd when I heard about Roman and Jewel I knew I had to read it. A book focused on the production of a new Broadway musical?? Romeo and Juliet meets hip hop? The number of references to other shows made my little geek heart happy lol.

This book is written by Dana L. Davis (an actual actress!) and follows Jerzie James who is the standby for the lead role in a new Broadway show, Roman & Jewel. The actress who plays Jewel, Cinny, is a popular celebrity so of course drama ensues. To add to the tension Jerzie might have fallen for Zeppelin, the actor for Roman and quite possibly the cutest boy she’s ever seen. So when Cinny tells Jerzie to back off, things get a little crazy.

Jerzie’s personality is strong and well-rounded but can I just say that Aunt Karla is the absolute best. Not to mention Zeppelin, who definitely has smooth moves. The theme is based on the question of what fame is worth giving up. And while the plot is a bit of a rollercoaster, everything comes together in the end. If I’m honest the romance is a bit over the top but I also appreciate the fact that Davis doesn’t make the storyline about a boy. Jerzie still has her ambition and drive to achieve her dream.

The only thing I would have liked is to see the songs! They often practice and I would have loved to hear the lyrics but I know how hard it is to write songs, let alone Broadway solos so I’ll let it slide. Maybe one day I’ll stumble upon someone who wrote them. If so I’ll be eternally grateful. ;) 

This book left me with just one question, where can I get my ticket?! I highly recommend this Roman and Jewel to any broadway fan but it’s still an enjoyable book without prior knowledge of musicals.