Before Romeo & Juliet

Maria Grazia’s sister in law writes to thank her for her colic cure and to tell of Bartolomeo’s wedding to Costanza di Corrado d’Antiochia

10 February 1287 The Venerable Lord Interminelli of Lucca, I write to inform you of my progress in the matter …

Caterina’s father writes her about marriage–his and hers.

Caterina seeks out Maria Grazia’s advice on a familial issue.

Caterina’s sister Agneta writes her with news from home and tells her how life at home in Lucca has changed forever.

Caterina has a dream she fears foretells the future. Maria Grazia is away, who can Caterina share her fears with?

Caterina’s sister, Agneta writes her of life at home. A big surprise that will impact everyone’s lives!

Maria Grazia can confess her conflicted emotions to no one but herself while administering to the sick nuns during an outbreak of pestilence.

Friar Laurence advises Caterina in her time of dire need.

Caterina, recounting her recent past, seeks forgiveness and advice from Friar Laurence.

Maria Grazia responds to Caterina’s cry for help with words of wisdom and a plan of action.

Caterina concludes her tale of woe with a discovery and a final farewell. beforeromeoandjuliet.com

Caterina writes Maria Grazia and shares with her a dangerous secret.

Caterina writes Maria Grazia in desperation, telling her of love, betrayal, and death.

Maria Grazia receives happy news from home. Tybalt is born!

Caterina writes Maria Grazia from home in Lucca of her mother’s illness and an unexpected visitor!

Maria Grazia & Caterina transgress for a friend. Friar Laurence counsels them and sets the stage.

Maria Grazia & Caterina find that life in the Abbey can be fun, especially when Friar Laurence visits!

I am holding the knife in my hand, watching its gilded blade play with the light. I do not remember …

Maria Grazia writes to Caterina about toiling in the Apothecary closet and the courage of Soura Aede.