Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

Published: May 2011

Publisher: Harper Teen

Pages: 496

ecopy: Courtesy of Netgalley and publisher

Summary: Goodreads

Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is—no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it's getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she's haunted by hallucinations of three women weeping tears of blood . . . and when Helen first crosses paths with Lucas Delos, she has no way of knowing they're destined to play the leading roles in a tragedy the Fates insist on repeating throughout history.



As Helen unlocks the secrets of her ancestry, she realizes that some myths are more than just legend. But even demigod powers might not be enough to defy the forces that are both drawing her and Lucas together—and trying to tear them apart.


Over the years many epic stories have been written about starcrossed lovers.  Romeo and Juliet are probably the most famous.  We have Tristan and Isolde - my personal favourite, and then there's the story of Helen and Paris, or as she is more commonly known - Helen of Troy.  Starcrossed is Josephine Angelini's take on the latter, and what a fantastic take it is.

Ms Angelini has written a story about the children (x times removed) of Gods and Goddesses,known as scions, and tells how they are fated to relive the stories of their famous ancestors.  These scions, or demi-gods are born with the powers of their ancestors as well.  The thing is, everyone knows about their powers, except Helen. 

I absolutely loved the first meeting between Helen and Lucas.  It is so different from the normal storyline and so original.  Sorry, no can tell, 'cos that would be a spoiler, but you'll love it.  As the story progresses we realize just what a disadvantage Helen is labouring under because she has grown up unaware of her powers and heritage.  Helen's best friend Claire reminded me a little of Chloe's role with Clark Kent (closet Smallville fan here!)  Claire seems to accept Helen whatever she does and is a true friend.  I loved her spunk and determination - she's such a little fire cracker.

There are some absolutely wonderful family dynamics going on with Lucas and his numerous cousins and siblings, each one channeling a different God or Goddess, and each with their own unique powers and background. But the fun comes when someone from a different 'Family' arrives on the scene and no-one is really safe.

Ms Angelini weaves a wonderful and mesmerising tale full of excitement and mystery and a beautiful love story that you think you know about, but may'be not. I loved every minute of it.  I'm sure you will too.