What do you think?
Rate this book
Lunar Destiny: A Celestial Fantasy Novel
On quiet nights you can find me outside on my back porch enjoying a glass of wine, reading my favorite smutty romance book. As a twenty-eight year old single mother, it’s rare that I get this time to myself.
That is, until I look at the moon. Light blinds me, my body turns weightless.
I wake up to find out I’ve been imprisoned in a death tournament held on Jupiter’s moon thanks to some moon goddess naming me the Lunar Destiny.
Oh and to make matters worse, I share my prison cell with none other than The Berserker, a deliciously handsome killing machine hell bent on killing me and the other five hundred prisoners to win his freedom.
Little does he know, I will do anything to get back to my daughter.
That is, until I look at the moon. Light blinds me, my body turns weightless.
I wake up to find out I’ve been imprisoned in a death tournament held on Jupiter’s moon thanks to some moon goddess naming me the Lunar Destiny.
Oh and to make matters worse, I share my prison cell with none other than The Berserker, a deliciously handsome killing machine hell bent on killing me and the other five hundred prisoners to win his freedom.
Little does he know, I will do anything to get back to my daughter.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 11, 2023
86 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
November 15, 2023
I absolutely loved this book it was incredible and as Niki first book I have to say that it was the best. If I could give it more stars I would, I loved how we had a flashback at the beginning and then to get right into the story I was captured by every single character and chapter.
I 100% recommend this book!!
I 100% recommend this book!!
December 23, 2023
With a well done worldbuilding, a lot of spicy scenes, and lot of adventures this book sucks you in and takes you on a wonderful fanatsy ride!
(BTW I need a shirt with ‘team Cain’)
(BTW I need a shirt with ‘team Cain’)
January 18, 2024
I saw this on tik tok and thought the mother daughter book duo was so cute, and me & my daughter and had to read them. After reading them, we loved them so much! The storyline is really good! Definitely recommend this!
November 9, 2024
Niki Dahl and her debut novel “Lunar Destiny” is an amazing blend of celestial adventure and a beautiful romance. It's set against the cold unpredictable backdrop of Jupiter's moon. Niki has masterfully plunged her readers into an otherworldly death tournament, making this familiar trope of “thrown into an unknown world” feel fresh and really very exhilarating.
Some of the other tropes that you'll find in this beautifully written book are: grumpy vs. sunshine, forced proximity, fantasy, spice, single mom, touch her and you unalive.
Our protagonist is a single mom accustomed to quiet nights on Earth. Suddenly she finds herself designated the “Lunar Destiny” by some moon goddess. Niki contrasts the protagonist's normal earthly routines with the reality of her new lunar captivity. You can feel that the stakes are nothing but palpable. She has the drive to return to her daughter is the focus the drives her every decision she makes and that imbues the narrative with maternal urgency.
I loved the way this books embracing of the grumpy/sunshine trope and how perfectly is plays out between our FMC and The Berserker, who just happens to be her cellmate. And yes, The Berserker is his true name. He is a fearsome warrior with such a dark part and is every inch the brooding anti-hero that he should be.
They forge a relationship in the crucible, one of forced proximity, between tense mistrust and they have a deep undeniable attraction. They have a great chemistry and the tension is just electric. The challenges they have to navigate are perilous and the death tournament and their dynamic continues to evolve and this does offer such an emotion arc throughout the action of the storyline.
Even though there is romance and a celestial setting in “Lunar Destiny”, Niki doesn't shy away from the darker themes, the challenges that prisoners would face, they are brutal. Forcing our FMC her moral boundaries. Niki does ask compelling questions about Sacrifice, survival and what lengths will we go for love.
Seamlessly it seems “Lunar Destiny” brings together the best of the smutty romance us women want with the high action for everyone else. Niki has such a skill as a writer to balance the elements perfectly. This book breaks every mould I've seen and read and has become a must read for the end of this year.
I personally can't wait to read the next book in this series and I can't wait to see what else this author does after she completes this series. She has a bright future ahead of her and I am sure her future endeavours are going to be just as bright and bold as this book is.
Some of the other tropes that you'll find in this beautifully written book are: grumpy vs. sunshine, forced proximity, fantasy, spice, single mom, touch her and you unalive.
Our protagonist is a single mom accustomed to quiet nights on Earth. Suddenly she finds herself designated the “Lunar Destiny” by some moon goddess. Niki contrasts the protagonist's normal earthly routines with the reality of her new lunar captivity. You can feel that the stakes are nothing but palpable. She has the drive to return to her daughter is the focus the drives her every decision she makes and that imbues the narrative with maternal urgency.
I loved the way this books embracing of the grumpy/sunshine trope and how perfectly is plays out between our FMC and The Berserker, who just happens to be her cellmate. And yes, The Berserker is his true name. He is a fearsome warrior with such a dark part and is every inch the brooding anti-hero that he should be.
They forge a relationship in the crucible, one of forced proximity, between tense mistrust and they have a deep undeniable attraction. They have a great chemistry and the tension is just electric. The challenges they have to navigate are perilous and the death tournament and their dynamic continues to evolve and this does offer such an emotion arc throughout the action of the storyline.
Even though there is romance and a celestial setting in “Lunar Destiny”, Niki doesn't shy away from the darker themes, the challenges that prisoners would face, they are brutal. Forcing our FMC her moral boundaries. Niki does ask compelling questions about Sacrifice, survival and what lengths will we go for love.
Seamlessly it seems “Lunar Destiny” brings together the best of the smutty romance us women want with the high action for everyone else. Niki has such a skill as a writer to balance the elements perfectly. This book breaks every mould I've seen and read and has become a must read for the end of this year.
I personally can't wait to read the next book in this series and I can't wait to see what else this author does after she completes this series. She has a bright future ahead of her and I am sure her future endeavours are going to be just as bright and bold as this book is.
November 2, 2023
"Lunar Destiny" by Niki Dahl offers a tantalizing blend of celestial adventure and heated romance, set against the cold and unpredictable backdrop of Jupiter's moon. Dahl masterfully plunges readers into an otherworldly death tournament, making the familiar trope of "thrown into an unknown world" feel fresh and exhilarating.
The protagonist, a single mother accustomed to her quiet nights on Earth, finds herself suddenly and inexplicably designated the 'Lunar Destiny' by a capricious moon goddess. Dahl expertly contrasts the protagonist's mundane earthly existence with the grim reality of her lunar captivity. The stakes are palpable: the drive to return to her daughter propels every decision she makes, imbuing the narrative with a powerful maternal urgency.
One of the standout features of the novel is its embrace of the grumpy/sunshine trope, masterfully played out between the protagonist and The Berserker, her cellmate. The Berserker, true to his moniker, is a fearsome warrior with a dark past, every inch the brooding anti-hero. Their relationship, forged in the crucible of forced proximity, swings between tense mistrust and undeniable attraction. The chemistry is palpable, the tension electric. As they navigate the perilous challenges of the death tournament, their dynamic evolves, offering readers a satisfying emotional arc amidst the action.
Despite the romance and celestial setting, "Lunar Destiny" doesn't shy away from dark themes. The challenges faced by the prisoners are brutal, forcing the protagonist to confront her moral boundaries. Dahl asks compelling questions about sacrifice, survival, and the lengths to which one will go for love.
In all, "Lunar Destiny" is a thrilling ride that seamlessly combines smutty romance with high-octane action. It's a testament to Dahl's skill as a writer that she can balance these elements so effectively. For those looking for a romance novel that breaks the mold, this is a must-read.
The protagonist, a single mother accustomed to her quiet nights on Earth, finds herself suddenly and inexplicably designated the 'Lunar Destiny' by a capricious moon goddess. Dahl expertly contrasts the protagonist's mundane earthly existence with the grim reality of her lunar captivity. The stakes are palpable: the drive to return to her daughter propels every decision she makes, imbuing the narrative with a powerful maternal urgency.
One of the standout features of the novel is its embrace of the grumpy/sunshine trope, masterfully played out between the protagonist and The Berserker, her cellmate. The Berserker, true to his moniker, is a fearsome warrior with a dark past, every inch the brooding anti-hero. Their relationship, forged in the crucible of forced proximity, swings between tense mistrust and undeniable attraction. The chemistry is palpable, the tension electric. As they navigate the perilous challenges of the death tournament, their dynamic evolves, offering readers a satisfying emotional arc amidst the action.
Despite the romance and celestial setting, "Lunar Destiny" doesn't shy away from dark themes. The challenges faced by the prisoners are brutal, forcing the protagonist to confront her moral boundaries. Dahl asks compelling questions about sacrifice, survival, and the lengths to which one will go for love.
In all, "Lunar Destiny" is a thrilling ride that seamlessly combines smutty romance with high-octane action. It's a testament to Dahl's skill as a writer that she can balance these elements so effectively. For those looking for a romance novel that breaks the mold, this is a must-read.
April 8, 2024
Omg!!! If you love fantasy then this Is definitely a read for you. It had everything I could imagine and it was so well put together. It was dark and spicy. Tons of Magic, it had faeries, a super Warrior race with sexy Warrior men. A corrupt king, a lunar princess, magical babies and children. Beautiful landscape descriptions, a tournament like hunger games, fated mates. This really gives off Haunting Adeline with a better story plot and world building. Cain is the berserker in the beginning then turns into a gentle giant. Almost like another famous book character we know. There are a lot of triggers for some of you who don’t like that kind of thing. I would read it 100 times over. Not to mention the book itself is absolutely beautiful. The only thing I don’t like is the fact I have to wait for the next one in the series. Please Niki Dahl I need the next one ASAP
May 11, 2025
Lunar Destiny was an unexpected delight.
This was my first 5 Star read for 2025!
This might have to be one of my favourite Fantasy worlds. I loved the use of all things Crystal & Celestial. I adored the way the magic system enhanced the story learning little by little about this world as the adventure continued. The journey of Alesana kept surprising me with every turn it took a beautiful story of fate, and familial bonds with just a little spice.
I only wish author Niki Dahl trusted in her choices a little more and didn't feel the need to explain her reasons why at times.
I highly recommend Lunar Destiny and can not wait to continue with Lunar Nightmare. It has a little of everything, I only recommend that you do your research with the trigger warnings as some people may find the content in these pages quite challenging.
This was my first 5 Star read for 2025!
This might have to be one of my favourite Fantasy worlds. I loved the use of all things Crystal & Celestial. I adored the way the magic system enhanced the story learning little by little about this world as the adventure continued. The journey of Alesana kept surprising me with every turn it took a beautiful story of fate, and familial bonds with just a little spice.
I only wish author Niki Dahl trusted in her choices a little more and didn't feel the need to explain her reasons why at times.
I highly recommend Lunar Destiny and can not wait to continue with Lunar Nightmare. It has a little of everything, I only recommend that you do your research with the trigger warnings as some people may find the content in these pages quite challenging.
December 18, 2023
Grumpy vs. Sunshine..!
Forced Proximity…!
Fantasy….!
Spice…..!
Single Mom…..!
Touch her and you unalive!!!!!
Dare I have to say more? 🤯 (Of course I will continue)
This book was an absolute 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from the beginning to the end. I thoroughly enjoyed it and was captured from the very beginning.
I like how Niki started the book with a glimpse into the past. It really helped understand events that may happen throughout the book. The world building was spot on, just enough to give you a great visual without being overwhelming. Same with the spice! I love how it was sprinkled in.
I will warn you, be prepared with tea, a fuzzy blanket, and your favorite reading corner, because you won’t want to put this book down once you pick it up.
Forced Proximity…!
Fantasy….!
Spice…..!
Single Mom…..!
Touch her and you unalive!!!!!
Dare I have to say more? 🤯 (Of course I will continue)
This book was an absolute 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from the beginning to the end. I thoroughly enjoyed it and was captured from the very beginning.
I like how Niki started the book with a glimpse into the past. It really helped understand events that may happen throughout the book. The world building was spot on, just enough to give you a great visual without being overwhelming. Same with the spice! I love how it was sprinkled in.
I will warn you, be prepared with tea, a fuzzy blanket, and your favorite reading corner, because you won’t want to put this book down once you pick it up.
November 15, 2023
This is Niki Dahl's first novel and she definitely came in with a bang! I'm amazed at how she was able to flow through the story so effortlessly. This is definitely another book I would give 10 stars to if I was able to! I love a good enemies to lovers story and this one was beautiful! This book will have you on an emotional rollercoaster that's so worth it in the end. Cain is one of my favorite characters. He turns out to be a gentle giant and I absolutely love that so much! It was very interesting reading about the different worlds and how they are different from each other. Overall this was such a beautiful story and I can't wait to read more from this author!
September 22, 2025
I have a bad habit, I pick ebooks based on the blurb, but then they sit so long that I forget what they are about, and I always forget to re-read the blurb before I begin reading. When I pulled "Lunar Destiny" from my TBR Vending Machine, I was honestly expecting something to do with werewolves. So I was completely surprised by a Celestial/space sci-fi fantasy. However, this read with its dark takes on a tournament with prisoners and the Lunar Destiny chosen by a Moon Goddess herself felt like a Space Odyssey/epic thriller take on Hunger Games mixed with fated mates and the fate of the whole galaxy.
It was a wild ride from start to finish, but I was thrilled to read it.
It was a wild ride from start to finish, but I was thrilled to read it.
November 3, 2023
I absolutely loved this story. It had everything I ever want in a fantasy. Fighting, sex, spice, found family, enemies to lovers, other worlds and creatures. Young mother finds out there is more in life than just Earth. She is thrown into fighting trials and she's no fighter. Finds a foe that turns out to be the love of her life while trying to get her daughter back from her evil father. I loved the found family and family building in this novel. I am hopeful for book two as I didn't want this story to end.
October 29, 2023
Was given the opportunity to read this as a arc as was so surprised was very entertaining to read loved the characters so much, this story was so well written there was amazing romance, angst, spice and the sweetness was so good. I enticed the plot so much I don’t think I ever read a book like this and was so good felt magical while reading haha.
The tropes:
Single mom
Captive romance
Forced proximity
Royalty
Sci-fi
Fantasy
If your into this tropes I would highly recommend it
The tropes:
Single mom
Captive romance
Forced proximity
Royalty
Sci-fi
Fantasy
If your into this tropes I would highly recommend it
November 3, 2023
Niki Dahl's first book, "Lunar Destiny," had me hooked from page five. The love story between Cain and Alesana is a real ride, packed with survival, magic, laughter, and tears. By the time I finished the book, I was crying "goody-goody gumdrop tears" and totally rooting for true love. I'm looking forward to checking out more of this author's stuff and seeing where her writing skills take her in the future.
December 20, 2023
For Niki Dahl's first book, this was absolutely fantastic. It was a page turned from the very first chapter, bringing the reader back to the beginning and then jumping right into the action. The twists and turns throughout the book were great and the ending was worth the whole read. I cannot wait to get my hands on her next book in this series! Very well done and it has the added bonus of being able to read this with my daughter in the children's POV book, Lunar Princess!
February 5, 2024
This took me on a rollercoaster of a ride! The book starts of fast with Aly's story, and did start to slow down some. If you are like me and want a constant fast pace - hang in there. The pace picks up, the turns keep coming and it is a wild ride! This is a great universe with characters and themes that I haven't really seen before, as well as some that are familiar. Great start to a series - can't wait to read the next!
April 22, 2025
I thought this book was going to be a more surface level story of a girl going into a hunger games like event and falling in love with the guy
However the actually story surprised me in a good way. The depth of the characters and all the stuff the FMC and MMC had to go through to get back together
Also I’m VERY interested to see what happens later in the story since the “bad guy” showed back up in the epilogue
However the actually story surprised me in a good way. The depth of the characters and all the stuff the FMC and MMC had to go through to get back together
Also I’m VERY interested to see what happens later in the story since the “bad guy” showed back up in the epilogue
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2023
This is a great book!! I absolutely love how the author transports you into her world so flawlessly.
April 13, 2024
I had no idea what to expect when starting this book but I am glad I read it. Was a fun easy read with a super enjoyable storyline. I can't wait to read what comes next!
May 1, 2025
Loved the first 60% of the book. After that it felt very slow. I definitely will look to other books by the author because it was a really good story. I liked that the fmc was an older and a mum.
March 2, 2026
This story was so imaginative. It’s so unlike anything I’ve read. There are some really awesome details and ideas I wish would’ve been explored a little deeper.
December 29, 2023
Such a rollercoaster!
From the beginning tryst to the adventures through the unknown, this book had me on my toes the whole time. The twists and turns, the betrayal and the undying love it’s an epic adventure I didn’t know that I needed.
Now, I just need to wait for the sequel to come out so I can learn what douche nozzle wants from them now.
From the beginning tryst to the adventures through the unknown, this book had me on my toes the whole time. The twists and turns, the betrayal and the undying love it’s an epic adventure I didn’t know that I needed.
Now, I just need to wait for the sequel to come out so I can learn what douche nozzle wants from them now.
July 10, 2024
The blurb drew me in immediately. The plot introduced is abandoned not even halfway through. I felt like it was a trilogy written in 1 300 page book. Too much going on with not enough information and world building. The ONLY reason I gave it 2⭐️ was because of Cain.
May 7, 2025
I devoured this novel. With a strong female main character, a lovable yet fierce male lead, captivating magic, a high-stakes tournament, and a heartwarming found family, what’s not to love? It had me laughing, crying, and raging in all the best ways. Be sure to check content warnings, but if it’s a fit for you, I can’t recommend it enough. I’m already diving into the next in the series!
March 3, 2026
I have a serious soft spot for books built around trials, games, puzzles, and impossible challenges - something about watching characters navigate high-stakes tests where every decision matters instantly has me hooked. So Lunar Destiny was basically designed to hit my reading weak spot, especially once you sprinkle fantasy into the mix.
From early on, the story leans heavily into survival-style challenges where the stakes feel very real. Every trial carries consequences, every choice feels calculated, and there’s this constant tension of wondering who will make it through and what it will cost them along the way. I love when a book makes you feel slightly stressed on behalf of the characters, and this one definitely delivered that “just one more chapter” urgency.
The world itself felt more other-worldly than I initially expected, which actually made the experience even more interesting. The lunar-inspired setting and magical elements added a unique atmosphere that separated it from more traditional fantasy competition stories. It felt mysterious, a little surreal at times, and kept me curious about how the rules of the world actually worked.
What really kept me invested was the balance between action and character growth. The trials weren’t just there for spectacle - they pushed the characters emotionally and mentally, forcing them to confront fears, loyalties, and sacrifices along the way. Watching those dynamics unfold made the victories feel earned and the losses hit a little harder.
Overall, Lunar Destiny was a really fun and riveting read for me. If you enjoy fantasy mixed with deadly games, strategic challenges, and high-stakes survival with an otherworldly twist, this one is definitely worth picking up. Honestly, anything with trials and puzzles already has my attention - and this book absolutely delivered on that front.
From early on, the story leans heavily into survival-style challenges where the stakes feel very real. Every trial carries consequences, every choice feels calculated, and there’s this constant tension of wondering who will make it through and what it will cost them along the way. I love when a book makes you feel slightly stressed on behalf of the characters, and this one definitely delivered that “just one more chapter” urgency.
The world itself felt more other-worldly than I initially expected, which actually made the experience even more interesting. The lunar-inspired setting and magical elements added a unique atmosphere that separated it from more traditional fantasy competition stories. It felt mysterious, a little surreal at times, and kept me curious about how the rules of the world actually worked.
What really kept me invested was the balance between action and character growth. The trials weren’t just there for spectacle - they pushed the characters emotionally and mentally, forcing them to confront fears, loyalties, and sacrifices along the way. Watching those dynamics unfold made the victories feel earned and the losses hit a little harder.
Overall, Lunar Destiny was a really fun and riveting read for me. If you enjoy fantasy mixed with deadly games, strategic challenges, and high-stakes survival with an otherworldly twist, this one is definitely worth picking up. Honestly, anything with trials and puzzles already has my attention - and this book absolutely delivered on that front.
March 17, 2024
Lunar Destiny has a lot going for it. The blurb drew me in right away. Dahl brings a lot of creativity to the table, coming up with new worlds and races. The descriptions are vivid and the spicy scenes, though brief, are enjoyable. I liked the idea of having a single mom heroine in a position like this—it was different, refreshing.
Unfortunately, a few things fell short for me when it came to delivery. First was the character development. I did not find any of the main characters compelling or consistent. Our FMC has moments where all she can think about is getting back to her daughter and “she doesn’t have the time or space to think about a man” but then in the next chapter, she’s entertaining the attentions of a stranger. She goes from moving through the world confidently to reeling at some new development and all of a sudden remembering how overwhelming everything is. The first interactions between the main characters were promising, but they turned out to have little chemistry, and again, no development—we go from 0-60 in a flash, without really understanding anything about the Berserker and his attraction to this stranger despite being a supposedly ruthless killer.
The world, while unique, left a lot of questions unanswered. How do humans not know about all these aliens inhabiting the other planets of the solar system?
Inner monologues and dialogue was very simple and repetitive. The writing had major issues with punctuation and sentence fragments that at times made it difficult to understand who was speaking and what was happening. Pacing was confusing, with action scenes going by in a flash and major plot points being glossed over. Things were repeatedly told instead of shown. What I imagine was supposed to be a major twist was predictable.
I realize that this is a debut novel, so with that in mind, and the effort put into the world building and providing something refreshing that crosses between the fantasy romance and scifi romance spaces, I am giving Lunar Destiny 3 stars. I couldn’t bring myself to finish it. If you are looking for something new and adventurous and can suspend disbelief and give these kinds of things a pass, I would say give it a try!
Unfortunately, a few things fell short for me when it came to delivery. First was the character development. I did not find any of the main characters compelling or consistent. Our FMC has moments where all she can think about is getting back to her daughter and “she doesn’t have the time or space to think about a man” but then in the next chapter, she’s entertaining the attentions of a stranger. She goes from moving through the world confidently to reeling at some new development and all of a sudden remembering how overwhelming everything is. The first interactions between the main characters were promising, but they turned out to have little chemistry, and again, no development—we go from 0-60 in a flash, without really understanding anything about the Berserker and his attraction to this stranger despite being a supposedly ruthless killer.
The world, while unique, left a lot of questions unanswered. How do humans not know about all these aliens inhabiting the other planets of the solar system?
Inner monologues and dialogue was very simple and repetitive. The writing had major issues with punctuation and sentence fragments that at times made it difficult to understand who was speaking and what was happening. Pacing was confusing, with action scenes going by in a flash and major plot points being glossed over. Things were repeatedly told instead of shown. What I imagine was supposed to be a major twist was predictable.
I realize that this is a debut novel, so with that in mind, and the effort put into the world building and providing something refreshing that crosses between the fantasy romance and scifi romance spaces, I am giving Lunar Destiny 3 stars. I couldn’t bring myself to finish it. If you are looking for something new and adventurous and can suspend disbelief and give these kinds of things a pass, I would say give it a try!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2024
Lunar Destiny has a lot going for it. The blurb drew me in right away. Dahl brings a lot of creativity to the table, coming up with new worlds and races. The descriptions are vivid and the spicy scenes, though brief, are enjoyable. I liked the idea of having a single mom heroine in a position like this—it was different, refreshing.
Unfortunately, a few things fell short for me when it came to delivery. First was the character development. I did not find any of the main characters compelling or consistent. Our FMC has moments where all she can think about is getting back to her daughter and “she doesn’t have the time or space to think about a man” but then in the next chapter, she’s entertaining the attentions of a stranger. She goes from moving through the world confidently to reeling at some new development and all of a sudden remembering how overwhelming everything is. The first interactions between the main characters were promising, but they turned out to have little chemistry, and again, no development—we go from 0-60 in a flash, without really understanding anything about the Berserker and his attraction to this stranger despite being a supposedly ruthless killer.
The world, while unique, left a lot of questions unanswered. How do humans not know about all these aliens inhabiting the other planets of the solar system?
Inner monologues and dialogue was very simple and repetitive. The writing had major issues with punctuation and sentence fragments that at times made it difficult to understand who was speaking and what was happening. Pacing was confusing, with action scenes going by in a flash and major plot points being glossed over. Things were repeatedly told instead of shown. What I imagine was supposed to be a major twist was predictable.
I realize that this is a debut novel, so with that in mind, and the effort put into the world building and providing something refreshing that crosses between the fantasy romance and scifi romance spaces, I am giving Lunar Destiny 3 stars. If you are looking for something new and adventurous and can suspend disbelief and give these kinds of things a pass, I would say give it a try!
Unfortunately, a few things fell short for me when it came to delivery. First was the character development. I did not find any of the main characters compelling or consistent. Our FMC has moments where all she can think about is getting back to her daughter and “she doesn’t have the time or space to think about a man” but then in the next chapter, she’s entertaining the attentions of a stranger. She goes from moving through the world confidently to reeling at some new development and all of a sudden remembering how overwhelming everything is. The first interactions between the main characters were promising, but they turned out to have little chemistry, and again, no development—we go from 0-60 in a flash, without really understanding anything about the Berserker and his attraction to this stranger despite being a supposedly ruthless killer.
The world, while unique, left a lot of questions unanswered. How do humans not know about all these aliens inhabiting the other planets of the solar system?
Inner monologues and dialogue was very simple and repetitive. The writing had major issues with punctuation and sentence fragments that at times made it difficult to understand who was speaking and what was happening. Pacing was confusing, with action scenes going by in a flash and major plot points being glossed over. Things were repeatedly told instead of shown. What I imagine was supposed to be a major twist was predictable.
I realize that this is a debut novel, so with that in mind, and the effort put into the world building and providing something refreshing that crosses between the fantasy romance and scifi romance spaces, I am giving Lunar Destiny 3 stars. If you are looking for something new and adventurous and can suspend disbelief and give these kinds of things a pass, I would say give it a try!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2023
This book was an interesting adventure. I liked how the author started with a short flash back and then went right into the present story. I will admit I was like wait, what? But I was intrigued to see where it lead. And I am happy I did, Niki has developed an exciting new world. The world building was descriptive and characters were relatable, except Zatch (screw him). I do love Cain tho.The story had romance, angst, spice, finding family and new beginnings. Book does end with a small cliffhanger. Excited to see what happens next.
Side note: I would have made Everleigh just a couple of year older like atleast 10-13 for her maturity to appear more realistic but thats my own personal opinion doesnt impact the story
Side note: I would have made Everleigh just a couple of year older like atleast 10-13 for her maturity to appear more realistic but thats my own personal opinion doesnt impact the story
December 20, 2023
Great book for a new author
For Niki Dahl's first book, this was absolutely fantastic. It was a page turned from the very first chapter, bringing the reader back to the beginning and then jumping right into the action. The twists and turns throughout the book were great and the ending was worth the whole read. I cannot wait to get my hands on her next book in this series! Very well done and it has the added bonus of being able to read this with my daughter in the children's POV book, Lunar Princess!
For Niki Dahl's first book, this was absolutely fantastic. It was a page turned from the very first chapter, bringing the reader back to the beginning and then jumping right into the action. The twists and turns throughout the book were great and the ending was worth the whole read. I cannot wait to get my hands on her next book in this series! Very well done and it has the added bonus of being able to read this with my daughter in the children's POV book, Lunar Princess!
November 25, 2024
I loved this read! This is one of those books where it sucks you in quickly and gets straight to the action. It has some 🌶spice🌶 too.
This book had some world building and Niki did great. Bits and pieces of deeper lore are sprinkled in and it makes me want a prequel to explore characters from all of the tribes and their journeys.
The characters are super loveable (and loathed, omg - wait and see) & had me rooting for them. This book was paired with a short read that was age appropriate for my 8 year old about a young female character and her parallel journey. Fantastic all around!
This book had some world building and Niki did great. Bits and pieces of deeper lore are sprinkled in and it makes me want a prequel to explore characters from all of the tribes and their journeys.
The characters are super loveable (and loathed, omg - wait and see) & had me rooting for them. This book was paired with a short read that was age appropriate for my 8 year old about a young female character and her parallel journey. Fantastic all around!
July 13, 2024
This review is a placeholder for myself until Lunar Nightmare is listed on Goodreads. ♡
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews