Introduction

Star-Cross'd - Book Three. Italy, 1326. While the brilliant and wily Cesco is schooled in his new duties at the hand of a hard master, Pietro Alaghieri travels to Avignon, current seat of the Papacy, to fight his excommunication and plead for Cesco's legitimacy. He doesn't know an old foe has been waiting to ruin Pietro's life and seize control of Verona for himself. Back in Verona, separated from everyone he trusts, Cesco must confront his ambitious cousin, a mysterious young killer, and the Holy Roman Emperor himself. A harrowing series of adventures reveal a secret long hidden, one that threatens Cesco's only chance for true happiness. Inspired by Shakespeare, Dante, and Petrarch, full of Renaissance intrigue and passion, this third novel in Blixt's acclaimed Star-Cross'd series reflects the heights of drama, exploring the capricious whims of lady Fortune, who has her favorites - and her fools.

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Excerpt

FIVE

Tessa Capulletto sat focusing on the yarn in her fingers, endeavoring to ignore her rising gorge. She couldn’t decide if her illness was due to this latest child growing inside her, or her company. ... view entire excerpt...

Discussion Questions

Who is Fortune's fool? Why?

Many people seem to hate the Lord of Verona. Why? Is excellence a crime?

What is the origin of the phrase "deadline"? How did it come to play in the novel?

Pietro is shocked by the Church's new list of indulgences. Why? As an historical document, is the list surprising?

Tharwat al-Dhaamin has been an outsider all his life. Is that his own doing, or through outside circumstance?

Did you notice the crossover with a classic novel of historical fiction? What was it? Did it work?

The author presents an idealized version of young love. Was it believable? Did it further the story?

How does the word "alienation" fit this novel?

How many Shakespeare characters make appearances in the novel? From which plays? Did you find them entertaining or distracting?

In what ways do the events in the book reveal evidence of the author's world view? How does he view religion? The Church? Art? Poetry? Governance? Love? Power? War?

Weblinks

»	Author David Blixt's web site

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