The Hundred Loves of Juliet

The premise was intriguing at first. However, the characters became a repetitive annoyance. Sebastian spends the entire book worried about Helene (Juliet), always in his cautious, heartache melancholy. He was a far more compelling character than Helene though. Helene has no distinctive characteristics that make her likeable - bland, unoriginal, damsel in distress vibes before and after meeting Sebastian. 70% of the book both characters repeating the same thing - "Why is he acting like xyz?", "Am I really the love of his life, Juliet?", and "I have to protect her, I have to distance myself". I really did not like how there were several back-to-back chapters that switched between Helene and Sebastian's POVs about the same situation. The big bad in this book is defeated with Sebastian's copious, unquestionable wealth and connections - it felt so silly and reminded me too much of rich, old vampires with their pretty playthings.

Save your time, skip this book.

He Loves Her Always
I found genuine enjoyment in this book, whether due to my unabashed romantic tendencies or the engaging writing style. The exploration of the timeless Romeo & Juliet narrative takes a captivating twist as it delves into the profound question of how deeply one can love when confronted with the limitations of time. This unique approach, inspired by the author's real-life circumstances, adds a personal and touching dimension to the story, fostering a stronger connection for readers.

The tale unfolds in a charming Alaskan town amidst winter's embrace, introducing our main character, Helene, as she stumbles upon a woodsy, bustling pub adorned with mounted moose heads, lumberjacks, and welcoming locals. This cozy setting immediately establishes a comforting ambiance that persists throughout the narrative, despite the looming threat of death and despair.

While the book may not boast revolutionary concepts, it offers a straightforward yet endearing romance that refrains from reinventing the wheel. The sweetness and wholesomeness of the story, coupled with its cute and almost cheesy vibes, contribute to its undeniable charm. The adorable pairing of Helene and Sebastien, their seamless complementarity, and the consistent joy evoked in every shared scene had me smiling from start to finish.

As someone who endured fifteen weeks of Shakespearean studies in college, this story served as a delightful departure from the structured norm, infusing a sense of fun into the familiar narrative. The low-key world tour embarked upon by Helene and Sebastien added an exciting international flavor to the plot, making it a joy for enthusiasts of globally set books.

The prose, refreshingly devoid of pretentiousness, maintains a lovely and accessible quality that enhances the overall reading experience. In essence, while not groundbreaking, this book offers a heartwarming escape into a world of love, warmth, and adventure—a sweet and delightful read that leaves a lasting impression.