The first thing I thought while reading this book was when Mercutio says in Romeo and Juliet, "A plague on both your houses"!

Whew the vivid imagery in this one was so good, I was able to visualize everything that was happening. These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong is probably one of my favorite Romeo and Juliet reimaginings!

As with the saying above which means: "Both sides are at fault. I will not take sides and will have nothing to do with it."

This is reminiscent throughout the book as both families are fighting each other for control of the city. It has elements of a mystery with Roma and Juliette working together to figure out who and why a plague is infesting the city and killing their people. 

In fear of the foreigners taking advantage of this weakness in their respective gangs, as they are having a difficult time controlling the illness they put their blood feud aside in order to save their people, they team up amid the family’s hatred of one another.

This one is filled with forbidden romance, mystery, and fantasy elements in 1920s Shanghai. With the main themes being on colonialism and Western influences and privileges. 

One thing I did like is that the author gave us some backstory on Roma and Juliette's relationship. Before the events in the book, we learn they already had a history together and now basically hate each other. This gave the book a more enemies to lovers vibe and set the tension as well between them as they worked together.

The ending also was so good. I just started reading the second book last night and am loving it as well!