Monitors vs. Bookshelves? Any Differences other than Ability to Place near Walls?

You think of a bookshelf speaker for a guy in a space constrained home, in a small room or in a second home, who wants to get away from everyone and every thing, light his fireplace, pour some nice beverage, and recharge his soul and reconnect with himself.


You think of a monitor speaker for a guy who is working in the studio and analytically listens for every missed detail to generate a "perfect" recording.


But in reality, are these kinds of speakers the same? Are bookshelves designed to allow for better placement near walls? Is this an urban legend? If so, how are bookshelves designed to allow better placement?