Property of Benvolio by Susan Horsnell is a riveting and compelling historical romance that offers a fresh perspective on vengeance, honor, and forbidden love, set against the dramatic backdrop of Renaissance Verona. In this well-crafted narrative, Horsnell retells the classic tale of the Montagues and Capulets with a daring twist, placing Benvolio Montague, a character traditionally shadowed by Romeo, at the core of this engaging novel.

The story begins with a powerful prologue that introduces the reader to Benvolio Montague who has been overshadowed by his cousin Romeo’s tragic love story. Unlike the whimsical and overly passionate Romeo, Benvolio is depicted as stalwart, thoughtful, and much more grounded in reality. His character is immediately gripping because it combines the weight of familial loyalty with a personal struggle for a life defined by his own terms.

The core of the narrative spins around the age-old feud between the Montagues and the Capulets, yet Horsnell intelligently uses this setting not merely as a backdrop but as a dynamic catalyst for Benvolio’s personal evolution. This novel, while rooted in the traditions of Shakespeare's original, bravely ventures beyond the bounds of the play to explore deeper human motivations and societal constraints. Horsenthal’s Verona is a character in its own right, depicted with bustling market scenes, opulent palatial details, and shadowy corners where conspiracies thrive.

As the plot unfolds, we are introduced to Isabetta Capulet, a young woman of beauty and intellect who dreams of a life beyond the restrictive expectations of her family. Despite her initial prejudice against Montagues, Isabetta finds herself inexorably drawn to Benvolio’s sincerity and hidden vulnerabilities. Their developing relationship is finely drawn, marked by clandestine meetings and stolen conversations which are described with a palpable urgency that keeps the reader engaged and rooting for their forbidden love.

The relationship between Benvolio and Isabetta is effectively enhanced by Horsnell’s skilful use of dialogue. The exchanges are not only poetic but also laden with the sort of tension and stakes typical of star-crossed lovers. The writer’s adaptation of early modern English adds authenticity to the interactions while maintaining accessibility to the modern reader. Moreover, the internal monologues of Benvolio provide profound insight into his transformative journey from a loyal soldier of his house to a man who questions the very basis of his inherited enmity.

Another commendable aspect of Property of Benvolio is its rich array of secondary characters. From the wise, cryptic Apothecary to the stern yet clearly affectionate Lord Montague, each supporting character is well-developed, contributing to the mounting tension and enriching the tapestry of the narrative. The subplot involving the Apothecary’s secret past and its eventual intertwining with the main plot is particularly noteworthy.

The pacing of the book is meticulous; Horsnell manages to maintain a steady build-up of suspense throughout. Each chapter strategically ends on a note that compels the reader to turn the page. The climactic portion of the book is expertly executed, involving duels, betrayals, and heart-wrenching revelations that satisfy the thematic promises laid out in the early chapters.

Moreover, the themes of duty, love, and individual freedom are explored with both subtlety and depth. Horsnell does not merely recreate a tragic romantic landscape but probes the very human elements within that tragedies often stem from miscommunication and unchecked revenge. The philosophical musings intertwined with the plot add a layer of sophistication to this engaging historical romance.

However, the novel does tread familiar ground, and readers well-versed in Shakespearean literature might find the plot somewhat predictable despite its creative deviations. Nonetheless, Horsnell’s narrative craft, particularly her ability to flesh out lesser-known characters and infuse new life into them, more than compensates for the story’s predictability.

To conclude, Property of Benvolio by Susan Horsnell is a brilliantly penned novel that not only pays homage to Shakespeare’s enduring work but also succeeds in carving its unique niche. It is a recommended read for anyone who enjoys historical romance with a generous serving of intrigue and depth. The fusion of a classic setting with invigorating new character arcs and sumptuous prose makes this reimagination of Romeo and Juliet a delightful and thought-provoking novel.