A fresh, modern take on Romeo and Juliet, told from Benvolio’s point of view. Set in a present-day Verona full of teen crushes, messy drama, and one very unusual illness: Hanahaki.

When Benvolio sees his best friend Mercutio in the arms of Tybalt Capulet—the enemy—he literally starts coughing up flowers. Between coffee shops, messy friendships, and the constant interference of Rosaline Capulet and her younger sister Livia, Benvolio struggles with anxiety, confusion, and the fear that his feelings might not be returned.

This contemporary queer YA novel reimagines Shakespeare’s classic tale, putting a modern spin on love, friendship, and heartbreak. It features heartwarming friendships, an m/m romance, an asexual side character, and a bittersweet but ultimately comforting Hanahaki love story at its center. The tight-knit trio of Romeo, Benvolio, and Mercutio faces serious challenges, from Tybalt’s anger to Rosaline’s meddling, and even Romeo’s new crush on Juliet.