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When the Sun Kisses the Moon
After tragically losing her twin brother, seventeen-year-old Astrid Glass and her mother move to Paris to live with her great-grandparents. Exploring one of the most romantic places in the world, getting noticed by boys and making new friends only temporarily divert her from her anguish and fail to mend her shattered life.
Everything changes when Astrid meets Étienne Durand, a gorgeous, mysterious French street fighter. He peers straight into her soul and wields a magic so intense that he distracts her from unbearable grief and helps her take the first steps in her healing journey. As she is drawn deeper and deeper into his world of dark secrets and enchantment, she unwittingly exposes herself to danger. Soon, she discovers that only she can break the curse that binds him. With peril lurking around every corner and time running out, who can Astrid trust, and will she be able to save the man she’s beginning to fall for?
Everything changes when Astrid meets Étienne Durand, a gorgeous, mysterious French street fighter. He peers straight into her soul and wields a magic so intense that he distracts her from unbearable grief and helps her take the first steps in her healing journey. As she is drawn deeper and deeper into his world of dark secrets and enchantment, she unwittingly exposes herself to danger. Soon, she discovers that only she can break the curse that binds him. With peril lurking around every corner and time running out, who can Astrid trust, and will she be able to save the man she’s beginning to fall for?
411 pages, Paperback
Published June 16, 2024
5 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Juliette Caron
8 books45 followersAuthor of contemporary and fantasy YA, Juliette was born in Idaho but grew up all over, including overseas. She's wanted to be a writer since she was twelve, around the time when she won The Young Author's Award in sixth grade. In addition to writing, she loves reading, painting, travel, dogs AND cats (you really don't have to choose), exotic foods and indie and alternative music. She's written six books: When the Sun Kisses the Moon; Everywhere, Everywhere; Gone Away Girl; Finding Home; Pictures of You; and An ABC Book for the Despairing, Disheartened & Depressed.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
January 26, 2025
A poignant and imaginative tale that blends realism with enchanting magical elements. When the Sun Kisses the Moon is a modern fairy tale with a beating heart full of romance, self-discovery, and the kind of hope that only arises after navigating profound grief.
The story follows Astrid as she navigates the turbulent waters of loss and healing. Moving to Paris after the death of her twin brother, Astrid is grappling with anxiety, an emotionally fragile mother, and the weight of her own emotions. Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Étienne, a mysterious, magnetic stranger with secrets of his own—and a life-altering offer that brings magic and danger into her world.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Paris, it includes music, travel, and the small moments that make life beautiful. The descriptions are vivid and atmospheric.
At its core, this is a story about growth, resilience, and the redemptive power of love. The slow-burn romance between Astrid and Étienne is lovely, with just the right amount of tension to keep you invested. Both characters are beautifully flawed, and their arcs are satisfying as they each find their way toward healing and self-acceptance.
The fantastical elements, though whimsical and fun, are still grounded, making the magic feel organic to the story. This take on the “genie in a lamp” trope is inventive, adding layers of suspense and moral complexity to the story.
I like that there’s no shying away from exploring the raw realities of grief, guilt, and the struggle to rebuild a shattered life. Yet, for balance, there are moments of joy, humor, and warmth.
When the Sun Kisses the Moon is a great read for fans of urban fantasy and romance.
The story follows Astrid as she navigates the turbulent waters of loss and healing. Moving to Paris after the death of her twin brother, Astrid is grappling with anxiety, an emotionally fragile mother, and the weight of her own emotions. Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Étienne, a mysterious, magnetic stranger with secrets of his own—and a life-altering offer that brings magic and danger into her world.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Paris, it includes music, travel, and the small moments that make life beautiful. The descriptions are vivid and atmospheric.
At its core, this is a story about growth, resilience, and the redemptive power of love. The slow-burn romance between Astrid and Étienne is lovely, with just the right amount of tension to keep you invested. Both characters are beautifully flawed, and their arcs are satisfying as they each find their way toward healing and self-acceptance.
The fantastical elements, though whimsical and fun, are still grounded, making the magic feel organic to the story. This take on the “genie in a lamp” trope is inventive, adding layers of suspense and moral complexity to the story.
I like that there’s no shying away from exploring the raw realities of grief, guilt, and the struggle to rebuild a shattered life. Yet, for balance, there are moments of joy, humor, and warmth.
When the Sun Kisses the Moon is a great read for fans of urban fantasy and romance.
August 2, 2024
'When the Sun Kisses the Moon' by @juliette_the_writer is an engaging tale of love, grief, hope, longing, and redemption, with a delightful dose of magical realism thrown in too.
Astrid has just moved to Paris to live with her grandparents after the traumatic experience of the death of her twin brother. With no money, an emotionally unstable mother, and bouts of anxiety to manage, how will 17-yr-old Astrid react when she finds out that she is to be offered 10 wishes of her choice by a mysterious, handsome stranger with a glowing amulet?
A modern twist on the genie in a lamp story, Caron finds fresh and inventive ways of looking at the classic 'what if' scenario with well-drawn characters and engaging results. In what is a love letter to Paris, travelling and musical passion, Caron creates a world in which the scenery and soundtrack (usually on classic vinyl) are as much of a character as the people themselves.
At its heart, this story is about self-discovery and learning to find your path to being a better you. It is also a love story, and Etienne and Astrid provide a couple you want to fight for (literally, in the story itself!). I appreciate the mental health references and the lack of 'perfect' people - everyone in this feels human with flaws and struggles like the rest of us.
I recommend giving this indie book a read - a warm, woozy, and romantic love story that will leave you with all the feels. Go check it out!
Astrid has just moved to Paris to live with her grandparents after the traumatic experience of the death of her twin brother. With no money, an emotionally unstable mother, and bouts of anxiety to manage, how will 17-yr-old Astrid react when she finds out that she is to be offered 10 wishes of her choice by a mysterious, handsome stranger with a glowing amulet?
A modern twist on the genie in a lamp story, Caron finds fresh and inventive ways of looking at the classic 'what if' scenario with well-drawn characters and engaging results. In what is a love letter to Paris, travelling and musical passion, Caron creates a world in which the scenery and soundtrack (usually on classic vinyl) are as much of a character as the people themselves.
At its heart, this story is about self-discovery and learning to find your path to being a better you. It is also a love story, and Etienne and Astrid provide a couple you want to fight for (literally, in the story itself!). I appreciate the mental health references and the lack of 'perfect' people - everyone in this feels human with flaws and struggles like the rest of us.
I recommend giving this indie book a read - a warm, woozy, and romantic love story that will leave you with all the feels. Go check it out!
June 21, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free by the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This will be the first book that I’ve read by Juliette Caron. I enjoyed reading this book very much. I felt completely immersed In this story. You feel as if you’re living this fairy tale that’s being narrated to you. I like that the characters are relatable, and that the story in general feels relatable even if it has magical elements to it.
I love the narration that this story gives us. Not only that, but I really don’t want to add anything that isn’t already told in the synopsis. Don't want to spoil anything else! This is a must-read story, and it talks of grief, bthe ability to overcome loss, and the journey it takes to continue on. We meet our FMC, Astrid, who is going through theis experience and struggle. She is grieving the loss of her brother. She then relocates to Paris, where she meets our MMC, Etienne. Juliette does a wonderful job in her story by setting our scene in one of the most romantic places in the world. I enjoy a good slow-burn romance! It’s one of my favorite tropes. Who does Astrid trust? Will she able to save someone she cares for in time? Overall, it's a great story, and I would recommend it for young adult and adults to read. This is a book I would recommend to my son as well and I'm sure he'll find it enjoyable.
This will be the first book that I’ve read by Juliette Caron. I enjoyed reading this book very much. I felt completely immersed In this story. You feel as if you’re living this fairy tale that’s being narrated to you. I like that the characters are relatable, and that the story in general feels relatable even if it has magical elements to it.
I love the narration that this story gives us. Not only that, but I really don’t want to add anything that isn’t already told in the synopsis. Don't want to spoil anything else! This is a must-read story, and it talks of grief, bthe ability to overcome loss, and the journey it takes to continue on. We meet our FMC, Astrid, who is going through theis experience and struggle. She is grieving the loss of her brother. She then relocates to Paris, where she meets our MMC, Etienne. Juliette does a wonderful job in her story by setting our scene in one of the most romantic places in the world. I enjoy a good slow-burn romance! It’s one of my favorite tropes. Who does Astrid trust? Will she able to save someone she cares for in time? Overall, it's a great story, and I would recommend it for young adult and adults to read. This is a book I would recommend to my son as well and I'm sure he'll find it enjoyable.
June 30, 2024
The perfect summer read, full of romance and travel! This book captures the sweetness of first love and new friendships as candidly and profoundly as it does the hardship of grief and the burden of guilt. And the magic in it is super fun and whimsical! This is the type of magical realism book I love to read!
Filled with friendship and romance, suspense and adventure, and really good French food, When the Sun Kisses the Moon will tug at your heartstrings and plunge you into an enchanting world where magical things happen for an ordinary girl who's had more than her share of misfortune.
I immediately connected with Astrid, the main female character, over the loss of someone important to her, the way she feels the need to hold herself together for those around her, and all the emotional baggage that comes with having grown up scrimping and saving every dollar. She was such a relatable, well-defined character from the beginning, and her relationship with her mysterious new friend Etienne was so well-developed over the course of the book that by the time *certain events* happened, I was on pins and needles to see how everything would conclude. Oh! And the side characters are all so lovable (except for, well...no spoilers).
The first half of the book felt lighter and less urgently paced than the latter half, but I think the tension builds up at a pace that makes sense given the story's structure, and believe me, by the end, you will be racing to the last page. It kind of builds up from cozy beach read to suspense novel LOL
(There is one romantic scene about halfway into the book, btw, that I was absolutely squealing over, and I'm pretty sure you will too!)
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is the third book I've read by Juliette Caron, and may I just say, she never disappoints!
Filled with friendship and romance, suspense and adventure, and really good French food, When the Sun Kisses the Moon will tug at your heartstrings and plunge you into an enchanting world where magical things happen for an ordinary girl who's had more than her share of misfortune.
I immediately connected with Astrid, the main female character, over the loss of someone important to her, the way she feels the need to hold herself together for those around her, and all the emotional baggage that comes with having grown up scrimping and saving every dollar. She was such a relatable, well-defined character from the beginning, and her relationship with her mysterious new friend Etienne was so well-developed over the course of the book that by the time *certain events* happened, I was on pins and needles to see how everything would conclude. Oh! And the side characters are all so lovable (except for, well...no spoilers).
The first half of the book felt lighter and less urgently paced than the latter half, but I think the tension builds up at a pace that makes sense given the story's structure, and believe me, by the end, you will be racing to the last page. It kind of builds up from cozy beach read to suspense novel LOL
(There is one romantic scene about halfway into the book, btw, that I was absolutely squealing over, and I'm pretty sure you will too!)
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is the third book I've read by Juliette Caron, and may I just say, she never disappoints!
June 19, 2024
A modern day fairy tale with a huge heart, I absolutely flew through this book. This was my third book by Juliette Caron and I continue to be impressed with the tenderness and depth of feeling in her writing.
This book blends fantastical, fairy tale elements with a modern setting in a satisfying way. It's Aladdin with a big twist. Astrid is grieving the death of her beloved brother and trying to re-build her life with her mother in France when she meets Etienne, a handsome, mysterious stranger. I won't spoil the twist but there's a big one, and when Etienne not only turns out to be more than he seems, but to have powers beyond what Astrid (or we) could have ever imagined, we get a slow burn romance that lasts all book long. There's also plenty of tension, drama, and even danger along the way.
What I most enjoyed about this book was the way both Astrid and Etienne have their own character arcs and redemption stories. Though Astrid is the main character, we become just as attached to Etienne as the story unfolds, and not only are rooting for them to be together, but to become whole in themselves before time runs out.
Romantic, well written, and full of heart, this was so-so enjoyable!
This book blends fantastical, fairy tale elements with a modern setting in a satisfying way. It's Aladdin with a big twist. Astrid is grieving the death of her beloved brother and trying to re-build her life with her mother in France when she meets Etienne, a handsome, mysterious stranger. I won't spoil the twist but there's a big one, and when Etienne not only turns out to be more than he seems, but to have powers beyond what Astrid (or we) could have ever imagined, we get a slow burn romance that lasts all book long. There's also plenty of tension, drama, and even danger along the way.
What I most enjoyed about this book was the way both Astrid and Etienne have their own character arcs and redemption stories. Though Astrid is the main character, we become just as attached to Etienne as the story unfolds, and not only are rooting for them to be together, but to become whole in themselves before time runs out.
Romantic, well written, and full of heart, this was so-so enjoyable!
June 14, 2024
I loved Juliette’s new book When the Sun Kisses the Moon! I’ve read everything she’s done and this may be my new favorite which is saying A LOT because I’m a big fan of all of her work. When the Sun Kisses the Moon is a perfect example of a YA book that pushes the genres’ boundaries in all the best ways. Juliette’s writing is thought provoking , poetic and relatable to all ages not just young adults.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the romance. If you love a good slow burn, Juliette nails it. The tension was just right. The protagonists are relatable and likable and I found myself falling in love and rooting for them throughout the entire book! When the Sun Kisses the Moon contains some fantasy elements which is normally not my genre of choice, but I must say It all felt believable and organic and the way Juliette dives into and explains her magical world is super clever and interesting. She is so good at painting the scene with words and making you believe you’re in the story. I was sucked in from the beginning and enjoyed every second of the ride. Do yourself a favor and read this book!
One of my favorite parts of this book was the romance. If you love a good slow burn, Juliette nails it. The tension was just right. The protagonists are relatable and likable and I found myself falling in love and rooting for them throughout the entire book! When the Sun Kisses the Moon contains some fantasy elements which is normally not my genre of choice, but I must say It all felt believable and organic and the way Juliette dives into and explains her magical world is super clever and interesting. She is so good at painting the scene with words and making you believe you’re in the story. I was sucked in from the beginning and enjoyed every second of the ride. Do yourself a favor and read this book!
July 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This emotionally stirring coming-of-age urban fantasy set in Paris, France, was one of the few books this year that kept me up into the wee hours of the morning to finish and satisfy my hunger of knowing how it would end.
After moving from the US to Paris with her mother, Astrid is trying to cope with learning a new language, making new friends, and most importantly trying to find peace after the death of her twin brother.
One day when she’s out with her friends, she locks eyes with an enigmatic French street fighter called Étienne. It’s not love at first sight. It’s magic at first sight. An electric pull brings them together in a way that will change Astrid’s life forever.
She goes from nothing to everything, solitude to ever-present company, from a muted life to one full of colour…all because Étienne is bound to her due to his curse.
Drawn further down the rabbit hole into his world of secrets and danger, only she can break his curse. Will she be able to save him?
Juliette has written a beautifully quirky and unique story of the power of true love and healing. From the very beginning, I was rooting for Astrid and enjoyed her journey of accepting love. The characters are on point, the pacing was a great blend of moderate action and heartfelt moments.
If you love urban fantasy, please read THIS! I don’t usually go for this genre. I’m so glad I read the ARC for this. After reading Juliette’s Everywhere Everywhere, this author is an instant read for me.
After moving from the US to Paris with her mother, Astrid is trying to cope with learning a new language, making new friends, and most importantly trying to find peace after the death of her twin brother.
One day when she’s out with her friends, she locks eyes with an enigmatic French street fighter called Étienne. It’s not love at first sight. It’s magic at first sight. An electric pull brings them together in a way that will change Astrid’s life forever.
She goes from nothing to everything, solitude to ever-present company, from a muted life to one full of colour…all because Étienne is bound to her due to his curse.
Drawn further down the rabbit hole into his world of secrets and danger, only she can break his curse. Will she be able to save him?
Juliette has written a beautifully quirky and unique story of the power of true love and healing. From the very beginning, I was rooting for Astrid and enjoyed her journey of accepting love. The characters are on point, the pacing was a great blend of moderate action and heartfelt moments.
If you love urban fantasy, please read THIS! I don’t usually go for this genre. I’m so glad I read the ARC for this. After reading Juliette’s Everywhere Everywhere, this author is an instant read for me.
June 21, 2024
✨️Book Review✨️
When the Sun Kisses The Moon
By Juliette Caron
Themes:
💘 Romance
🧞♂️ Wish-Granter
🇫🇷 Parisian
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Juliette Caron's "When the Sun Kisses the Moon" is an enchanting romance set in the charming backdrop of Paris. The novel combines a budding romance, the allure of the city, and the mystery of a magical artifact to create a captivating read.
I found myself engrossed by the chemistry between the protagonists and the tension Caron skillfully builds. The characters are relatable and well-developed, and their journey is filled with heartfelt and tender moments.
Caron's writing is evocative and seamlessly blends romance with a touch of magical realism. The story conveys a sense of hope and the idea that love and magic can be found in unexpected places.
Thank you to @juliette_the_writer for the opportunity in exchange for an honest review!
When the Sun Kisses The Moon
By Juliette Caron
Themes:
💘 Romance
🧞♂️ Wish-Granter
🇫🇷 Parisian
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Juliette Caron's "When the Sun Kisses the Moon" is an enchanting romance set in the charming backdrop of Paris. The novel combines a budding romance, the allure of the city, and the mystery of a magical artifact to create a captivating read.
I found myself engrossed by the chemistry between the protagonists and the tension Caron skillfully builds. The characters are relatable and well-developed, and their journey is filled with heartfelt and tender moments.
Caron's writing is evocative and seamlessly blends romance with a touch of magical realism. The story conveys a sense of hope and the idea that love and magic can be found in unexpected places.
Thank you to @juliette_the_writer for the opportunity in exchange for an honest review!
November 20, 2024
It's Juliette's second book I had the pleasure to read. What a nice snack, it was!
I enjoyed the narrative and the slow-burn, friends-to-lovers plot. The romantic plot is written with sensitivity, ensuring that the reader enjoys the calm pace and modest signs of feelings that begin to smolder somewhere in the nooks and crannies of the friendship that appeared quite suddenly after all.
There are many music references between the pages and a few jokes that put a big smile on my face. If you never had been to Europe, you'll surely want to after reading as the author describes some places from the old continent.
It's a perfect, YA read for me. I'll gladly reach for it again someday!
I enjoyed the narrative and the slow-burn, friends-to-lovers plot. The romantic plot is written with sensitivity, ensuring that the reader enjoys the calm pace and modest signs of feelings that begin to smolder somewhere in the nooks and crannies of the friendship that appeared quite suddenly after all.
There are many music references between the pages and a few jokes that put a big smile on my face. If you never had been to Europe, you'll surely want to after reading as the author describes some places from the old continent.
It's a perfect, YA read for me. I'll gladly reach for it again someday!
June 21, 2024
Addicting YA Romance
I had so much fun reading this slow burn romance! The female and male leads are so like able. The setting is fabulous. The music references are exciting.I kept wondering what artist the female lead was going to refer to next? I also noted some new songs to listen too. It’s worth the read!
I had so much fun reading this slow burn romance! The female and male leads are so like able. The setting is fabulous. The music references are exciting.I kept wondering what artist the female lead was going to refer to next? I also noted some new songs to listen too. It’s worth the read!
June 27, 2024
J Caron’s “When the Sun Kisses the Moon" is a captivating fairytale romance that effortlessly draws readers into a world of magic and love. The author has a way with words that brings her characters to life, making it hard to put down. Beautifully written and left a lasting impression.
January 19, 2025
When the Sun Kisses the Moon is a sweet romance and intriguing story. After losing her brother, Astrid is afraid to open herself up to Étienne. She’s likable, and I rooted for her the whole time even through some close calls. I loved that the setting is Paris. It’s the perfect location for all the romance and travel included in the story. And it has a cat named Cleocatra. How cute is that?
June 13, 2024
What a fantastic book! Love the plot, love the characters, and of course the romance. Would definitely read again and I’m not even much of a reader! Such a fun story idea :) great job!
June 14, 2024
What a great read! Beautifully written with lovable characters and gripping story. Highly recommend!!!!
December 1, 2024
I'm a huge fan of Juliette Caron's books, especially of the characters she creates and their relationships and can say that this was my favorite of hers hands down. A wonderful blend of fantasy, romance, and action written in page-turning prose. I loved the settings in Paris and Prague, feeling like I was there smelling the French bakery croissants and watching the Parisians strolling by. Highly recommend adding "When the Sun Kisses the Moon" (what a great title!) to your reading list and hopefully we see a sequel to Astrid and Étienne's adventures!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews