What do you think?
Rate this book
The Lunar Order Chronicles #2
Forged in Moonlight
Defeat the warlock. Save the city. Be hailed a hero. So why am I haunted by memories of that night?
All I wanted was to return to my quiet life of baking and brewing potions. The Lunar Order has forgotten me, and there’s been no trace of the dark witch. That is, until a vision reveals a powerful lunar relic hidden within the city—one I must find before it falls into the wrong hands. How can I refuse my Goddess’ call?
But this hunt is far more dangerous than I ever expected, and I come face-to-face with my worst nightmare—a magic user who traps me inside my deepest fears. If that wasn’t enough, I’m rescued by the very nephilim who’s been ghosting me.
Now, we’re all in the crosshairs of the ruthless black ops unit hunting the same relic. And they don’t tolerate loose ends. With the city’s fate at stake, I’ll need every advantage to reach the relic first. But with the enemy closing in, I can’t shake the feeling that I’m the weakest link.
How do I battle nightmares conjured by magic when I’m unable to defeat my own?
***
Forged in Moonlight is the second installment of the Lunar Order Chronicles, a fast-paced Urban Fantasy series with a strong heroine, found family, a dash of humor, and a slow burn, fade-to-black romance.
All I wanted was to return to my quiet life of baking and brewing potions. The Lunar Order has forgotten me, and there’s been no trace of the dark witch. That is, until a vision reveals a powerful lunar relic hidden within the city—one I must find before it falls into the wrong hands. How can I refuse my Goddess’ call?
But this hunt is far more dangerous than I ever expected, and I come face-to-face with my worst nightmare—a magic user who traps me inside my deepest fears. If that wasn’t enough, I’m rescued by the very nephilim who’s been ghosting me.
Now, we’re all in the crosshairs of the ruthless black ops unit hunting the same relic. And they don’t tolerate loose ends. With the city’s fate at stake, I’ll need every advantage to reach the relic first. But with the enemy closing in, I can’t shake the feeling that I’m the weakest link.
How do I battle nightmares conjured by magic when I’m unable to defeat my own?
***
Forged in Moonlight is the second installment of the Lunar Order Chronicles, a fast-paced Urban Fantasy series with a strong heroine, found family, a dash of humor, and a slow burn, fade-to-black romance.
- GenresFantasy
359 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2024
5 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
S.F. Henne
6 books27 followersFantasy author who loves all things fantasy and sci-fi. Born and raised in Adelaide, South Australia, Sarah swapped beaches for the ski slopes of Whistler, B.C and started her adventure. Now residing in Washington State with her husband, daughter and lab Luna, she embarked on the next part of her story: telling the tales that have been rattling around her head for years. With a love for strong female characters and found family, she always strives to create stories filled with hope and empowerment.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 30, 2024
While I really enjoyed the first book in this series, this second book was so much better. In the beginning, it did take a little bit to get back into the series, but once I did, it really flew by. Poor Nyssa hasn’t heard from her friends at the order, she’s having nightmares from the actions of the last book, and, on top of that, she’s on the hunt for a new relic, one someone else who’s ruthless is after too. I felt so much for poor Nyssa as she won’t reach out for help when she really needs it, and I really wanted to yell at her. Add on the action of the rest, after the beginning of the book, it was a thrilling ride. Nyssa has really come into her own by the end of this book, and I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen next to her and her friends. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
December 5, 2024
This book was amazing, A MUST READ URBAN FANTASY…I really enjoyed being given the opportunity to read it! I’m not a spoiler girl! But if you must know!
You will not regret picking this book up!
You will not regret picking this book up!
January 1, 2025
What an amazing read! I love the first book but this one so much more! Danika is my FAVORITE!!! I highly recommend this book for lovers of urban fantasy and all the witchy vibes!
January 1, 2025
I'm only about 60% through this book right now but I want to get some thoughts out before going further.
First, I'm loving this entire book, everything about it. It's a bit slower of a read than the first one was, but that's working really well for the story it means to tell. The way tension and pacing are handled in these books is masterful and I just can't get enough of it. The voice and story telling are on a level I've experienced almost nowhere else. Truly masterpieces.
Mild spoilers ahead
Secondly, I'm in a fighting mood tonight and ready to fist fight the entire Lunar Order over what happened to Kaelan. Aegis too. I don't really care about the others because I'm picky about where I put my emotional attachments (the rest of them are spent on Divine, Danika, and a potted plant that's been mentioned like. Twice. In as many books). Ain't nobody getting close to my boy if I have anything to say about it. Is precious. Must protec. 0/10 my baby got hurt! (five star book lol I am petty and dramatic)
I don't know if I can edit these later, but if I can, I probably will once I properly finish the book (should be in the next couple days) and add my final thoughts on the whole book.
First, I'm loving this entire book, everything about it. It's a bit slower of a read than the first one was, but that's working really well for the story it means to tell. The way tension and pacing are handled in these books is masterful and I just can't get enough of it. The voice and story telling are on a level I've experienced almost nowhere else. Truly masterpieces.
Mild spoilers ahead
Secondly, I'm in a fighting mood tonight and ready to fist fight the entire Lunar Order over what happened to Kaelan. Aegis too. I don't really care about the others because I'm picky about where I put my emotional attachments (the rest of them are spent on Divine, Danika, and a potted plant that's been mentioned like. Twice. In as many books). Ain't nobody getting close to my boy if I have anything to say about it. Is precious. Must protec. 0/10 my baby got hurt! (five star book lol I am petty and dramatic)
I don't know if I can edit these later, but if I can, I probably will once I properly finish the book (should be in the next couple days) and add my final thoughts on the whole book.
December 3, 2024
this book discussed a lot of things including the first book's fight's aftermath and its effect on Nyssa's mental health and i like that it did. a lot of books just brush it off, as if traumatising fights like that are just fun and cool, and being a hero is all just flashy fights, nice friends, n being adored by the masses. i like how the author show that experiencing what Nyssa did will take a toll on your head and along with her, we goes on the journey to learn to accept ourselves, broken as we are–all while having to survive new challenges too
this whole book makes us feel more connection with the characters, exploring the depths we havent got the chance to see in the first book. i just flew to 56% then to 100% read in a blink. n now i RLY RLY RLY cant wait to read Nightbound Oaths (the 3rd book)
this whole book makes us feel more connection with the characters, exploring the depths we havent got the chance to see in the first book. i just flew to 56% then to 100% read in a blink. n now i RLY RLY RLY cant wait to read Nightbound Oaths (the 3rd book)
January 3, 2026
rcvd an ARC from Booksprout.
Nyssa is forging her own way in the city making friends and getting contracts for her Alchemy work. its been months since the attack with Carmen and the nightmares linger and she hasn't heard anything from the nephliams. As a lunar witch the local pack asks her to guide their lunar ritual and elder Nan gives her a circlet...an instrument to aid in lunar ritual, however it has woken up with Nyssas magic. it shows Nyssa a vision of other relics and the need to get to them. something isnt right. Kaelan isnt what he was. he doesn't remember who he is and what had happened. the only thing he remembers is a deep bond to keep Nyssa protected at all costs. there is another being out there that wishes to harness the power to open the veil again. this time its much worse than dealing with Carmen. the only thing getting in thr way is Nyassa's fears.
Nyssa is forging her own way in the city making friends and getting contracts for her Alchemy work. its been months since the attack with Carmen and the nightmares linger and she hasn't heard anything from the nephliams. As a lunar witch the local pack asks her to guide their lunar ritual and elder Nan gives her a circlet...an instrument to aid in lunar ritual, however it has woken up with Nyssas magic. it shows Nyssa a vision of other relics and the need to get to them. something isnt right. Kaelan isnt what he was. he doesn't remember who he is and what had happened. the only thing he remembers is a deep bond to keep Nyssa protected at all costs. there is another being out there that wishes to harness the power to open the veil again. this time its much worse than dealing with Carmen. the only thing getting in thr way is Nyassa's fears.
December 4, 2024
Forged in Moonlight by S.F. Henne
This is the second book in the series. It was an enjoyable book to read about Nyssa and her fox and her witchy adventures. Not my usual genre so I appreciated the description of places and people at the beginning of the novel. The author has created some great characters and events and has a very good imagination
I absolutely recommend this series for anyone who likes witchcraft, sorcery and cozy reads
Much thanks to the author for an ARC
This is the second book in the series. It was an enjoyable book to read about Nyssa and her fox and her witchy adventures. Not my usual genre so I appreciated the description of places and people at the beginning of the novel. The author has created some great characters and events and has a very good imagination
I absolutely recommend this series for anyone who likes witchcraft, sorcery and cozy reads
Much thanks to the author for an ARC
December 5, 2024
Engaging Story!
Forged in Moonlight by S.F. Henne is a really good story. Nyssa is going through a lot and doing her best to build her new life, even with some road blocks (Reading the content warning is a good idea because Nyssa suffers from PTSD.)
My favorite characters are Danika and Divine and I enjoy their interactions with all of the other characters.
A good story, interesting characters, nice world building. I am already looking forward to the next book.
Forged in Moonlight by S.F. Henne is a really good story. Nyssa is going through a lot and doing her best to build her new life, even with some road blocks (Reading the content warning is a good idea because Nyssa suffers from PTSD.)
My favorite characters are Danika and Divine and I enjoy their interactions with all of the other characters.
A good story, interesting characters, nice world building. I am already looking forward to the next book.
December 9, 2024
I received this book as an arc and my opinions are my own.
Rating: 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The second book picks up right after the events of the first book and we see Nyssa dealing with trauma and living in fear of what happened. Throughout the book there was a lot of action and I liked how at the end Nyssa was able to let her walls down and accept help from her friends and learn that her fears and doubts are not a weakness and it’s ok to accept help. Super excited that there will be a third book in the series and can’t wait to continue on in Nyssa’s journey 💗
Rating: 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The second book picks up right after the events of the first book and we see Nyssa dealing with trauma and living in fear of what happened. Throughout the book there was a lot of action and I liked how at the end Nyssa was able to let her walls down and accept help from her friends and learn that her fears and doubts are not a weakness and it’s ok to accept help. Super excited that there will be a third book in the series and can’t wait to continue on in Nyssa’s journey 💗
April 11, 2025
I just love this series! It has action, adventure, magical creatures, alchemy, romance, friendship and so much more! I feel such a connection with Nyssa and cannot wait to see what happens next. I highly recommend this book and the first book in the series!
December 11, 2024
Unputdownable Witch urban fantasy
An exceptional sequel that surpasses Book One! With hard magic, a found family, non-stop action, a sentient building, and enemies lurking everywhere, this story is a whirlwind of thrills and emotion. The lush descriptions draw you in, the characters are masterfully developed, and the plotting is edge-of-your-seat perfect. It also dives deeply into the impact of PTSD, adding a poignant layer to the adventure. If the first book was a tantalizing appetizer, this one is a feast. I can’t wait for Book Three!
An exceptional sequel that surpasses Book One! With hard magic, a found family, non-stop action, a sentient building, and enemies lurking everywhere, this story is a whirlwind of thrills and emotion. The lush descriptions draw you in, the characters are masterfully developed, and the plotting is edge-of-your-seat perfect. It also dives deeply into the impact of PTSD, adding a poignant layer to the adventure. If the first book was a tantalizing appetizer, this one is a feast. I can’t wait for Book Three!
January 31, 2025
NYSSA & CREW ARE BACK 🥹🥹
Book 1 was one of my favourites last year, so I went into this one with perhaps too high a standard. I definitely enjoyed book 2, but not at the impossible levels of book 1.
It found it a lot more action & high stakes, but because of that, I feel the more "cozy" part & human interactions suffered from it.
The side characters I fell in love with in book 1 were, in my opinion, far too absent in this second book. The focus was on Danika and the shifters, but I was here for the Divine crew! Nyssa spends the first half of the book pushing them away, and that made it a hard one to go through for me.
Past the book's half, the action kicks in, and little space is left to explore the characters further. Pity!
Also the heartwarming, slice-of-life parts of Nyssa working at Divine cafe were gone, I fear for good now that
On the other hand, the action scenes were gripping as usual, particularly the final "dungeon" which kept me on the edge of my seat.
Love love love that this book has a conclusive arc like the first. In a sea of books ending on a cliffhanger, I always feel extra grateful when an author wraps things up by the end and gives some closure.
The epilogue was 👌
Definitely looking forward to book 3, hopefully with more fuzz and a lot, lot, lot more screen time for Rynac & Voren 🥰
Book 1 was one of my favourites last year, so I went into this one with perhaps too high a standard. I definitely enjoyed book 2, but not at the impossible levels of book 1.
It found it a lot more action & high stakes, but because of that, I feel the more "cozy" part & human interactions suffered from it.
The side characters I fell in love with in book 1 were, in my opinion, far too absent in this second book. The focus was on Danika and the shifters, but I was here for the Divine crew! Nyssa spends the first half of the book pushing them away, and that made it a hard one to go through for me.
Past the book's half, the action kicks in, and little space is left to explore the characters further. Pity!
Also the heartwarming, slice-of-life parts of Nyssa working at Divine cafe were gone, I fear for good now that
On the other hand, the action scenes were gripping as usual, particularly the final "dungeon" which kept me on the edge of my seat.
Love love love that this book has a conclusive arc like the first. In a sea of books ending on a cliffhanger, I always feel extra grateful when an author wraps things up by the end and gives some closure.
The epilogue was 👌
Definitely looking forward to book 3, hopefully with more fuzz and a lot, lot, lot more screen time for Rynac & Voren 🥰
February 26, 2025
Urban fantasy must read this book was absolutely amazing I cannot wait to read more by this amazing author and plan to do so very soon all I can really say about this book is you need need need need to read it go pick it up sit down in a cozy chair or couch get a blanket something to drink and just dive in and love this world and characters as much as I did
December 6, 2024
From the ending of book 1, The Last Lunar Witch, I thought Nyssa's family coming to visit was going to be the main challenge of book 2 (as it would be for most of us!!) but SF Henne had a totally different story to tell in Forged In Moonlight.
I like flawed protagonists because it makes them relatable. Nyssa is exactly that - a very flawed, relatable and reluctant hero. The emotional depth of this story is where it feels very different to others in the UF genre and, to me, made it very meaningful. As Nyssa is the first person POV, there is real-time insight into her mental state through the conversations she has with herself. Self doubt, guilt, anxiety and feelings of worthlessness and abandonment are all front and centre for the majority of the story and they had a big impact on pacing, as it was appropriate for it to be slower to reflect Nyssa's struggles and there is very little in the way of fluff or rainbows to lighten the mood - but nothing detracts from a great storyline where learning, growth and finding your place are important steps in a well-written journey.
The found family trope that was so well established in the first book is still very much in evidence here. I think that is actually one of the most important and endearing elements in these stories. " 'Nyssa, we don’t expect you to be perfect. We love you as you are—faults, scars, and all.' ". How can that level of love and support not appeal to a reader?! It is always a huge plus for me.
Another thing that immediately appealed to me was this quote - "...while I used to think that our differences were walls that stood between us, the truth was the opposite." - and how that attitude is embodied in the characters and story arcs. Acceptance is built into all the significant relationships of this story and I love that inclusivity.
Kudos to the author for her willingness to shine a light on the truth of mental health, while still creating a magical action suspense. I am looking forward to the next book in this series, and whatever twists the author brings!
I like flawed protagonists because it makes them relatable. Nyssa is exactly that - a very flawed, relatable and reluctant hero. The emotional depth of this story is where it feels very different to others in the UF genre and, to me, made it very meaningful. As Nyssa is the first person POV, there is real-time insight into her mental state through the conversations she has with herself. Self doubt, guilt, anxiety and feelings of worthlessness and abandonment are all front and centre for the majority of the story and they had a big impact on pacing, as it was appropriate for it to be slower to reflect Nyssa's struggles and there is very little in the way of fluff or rainbows to lighten the mood - but nothing detracts from a great storyline where learning, growth and finding your place are important steps in a well-written journey.
The found family trope that was so well established in the first book is still very much in evidence here. I think that is actually one of the most important and endearing elements in these stories. " 'Nyssa, we don’t expect you to be perfect. We love you as you are—faults, scars, and all.' ". How can that level of love and support not appeal to a reader?! It is always a huge plus for me.
Another thing that immediately appealed to me was this quote - "...while I used to think that our differences were walls that stood between us, the truth was the opposite." - and how that attitude is embodied in the characters and story arcs. Acceptance is built into all the significant relationships of this story and I love that inclusivity.
Kudos to the author for her willingness to shine a light on the truth of mental health, while still creating a magical action suspense. I am looking forward to the next book in this series, and whatever twists the author brings!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2024
Forged in Moonlight by SF Henne is a breathtaking sequel that effortlessly raises the stakes, delving deeper into a world brimming with magic, danger, and emotional intensity. This story is a masterful blend of action, heart, and suspense, leaving readers spellbound as they follow Nyssa on a journey that is as much about self-discovery as it is about saving the city.
From the first page, the tension is palpable. The protagonist’s struggle to reconcile her past with her current mission is deeply compelling, especially as she wrestles with haunting memories and self-doubt. Henne masterfully captures the inner turmoil of a hero who doesn’t see herself as one, making her relatable and inspiring. The return of the elusive nephilim adds a delicious layer of complexity and unresolved tension that keeps readers glued to every interaction.
The plot is fast-paced and packed with twists, from the dangerous hunt for the lunar relic to encounters with terrifying foes, including a magic user who weaponizes the protagonist’s worst fears. Henne’s ability to craft vivid, spine-chilling scenes is unmatched, keeping readers on edge while seamlessly balancing moments of humor and camaraderie.
The richly developed world-building is another highlight, with the city coming alive as both a vibrant setting and a battleground. The introduction of the ruthless black ops unit adds a layer of intrigue and high stakes, forcing unlikely alliances and testing every ounce of the protagonist’s courage and ingenuity.
What truly sets this book apart is its emotional depth. Themes of resilience, identity, and confronting one’s fears are woven beautifully into the narrative. The protagonist’s journey to reclaim her strength, not just for the city but for herself, is empowering and deeply moving. Forged in Moonlight is a triumphant blend of fantasy, suspense, and heart, solidifying SF Henne as a masterful storyteller.
From the first page, the tension is palpable. The protagonist’s struggle to reconcile her past with her current mission is deeply compelling, especially as she wrestles with haunting memories and self-doubt. Henne masterfully captures the inner turmoil of a hero who doesn’t see herself as one, making her relatable and inspiring. The return of the elusive nephilim adds a delicious layer of complexity and unresolved tension that keeps readers glued to every interaction.
The plot is fast-paced and packed with twists, from the dangerous hunt for the lunar relic to encounters with terrifying foes, including a magic user who weaponizes the protagonist’s worst fears. Henne’s ability to craft vivid, spine-chilling scenes is unmatched, keeping readers on edge while seamlessly balancing moments of humor and camaraderie.
The richly developed world-building is another highlight, with the city coming alive as both a vibrant setting and a battleground. The introduction of the ruthless black ops unit adds a layer of intrigue and high stakes, forcing unlikely alliances and testing every ounce of the protagonist’s courage and ingenuity.
What truly sets this book apart is its emotional depth. Themes of resilience, identity, and confronting one’s fears are woven beautifully into the narrative. The protagonist’s journey to reclaim her strength, not just for the city but for herself, is empowering and deeply moving. Forged in Moonlight is a triumphant blend of fantasy, suspense, and heart, solidifying SF Henne as a masterful storyteller.
December 4, 2024
Book 2 in the Lunar Order Chronicles does not disappoint! Nyssa is back to her life as an alchemist brewing potions with her familiar Danika by her side. She is still trying to move past the events with the Carmen and the warlock, even moving out of her old apartment. But when she gets a vision during a lunar ceremony, she is pushed into trying to find an awakened relic before it used for dark magic.
Nyssa is such a complex character (in a good way!). She is a reluctant hero and is now struggling with the trauma and nightmares from her previous battles. She is also struggling with feelings of rejection from the Nephilim, feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome. She battles with letting her friends help her and putting them in danger. She is overwhelmed on so many fronts that she just doesn't even know if she can do it. One of the major battles of this book is with herself!
Nyssa's friends prove time and again that they are there for her. She discovers the reason the Nephilim have been absent but still gets support from them. Danika is such a wonderful familiar who is steadfast in her faith of Nyssa. She is the biggest catalyst to begin the change in Nyssa. We get to see more of all her found family towards the end of the book and I love how they all work together.
The plot moves along at the perfect pace and it's easy to get lost in this book! Even when there is "down time", there is something going on. In between all this relic hunting, Nyssa is still trying to get her shop figured out. So, we still get the small cozy scenes with Divine Coffee or her brewing her potions as well. I enjoyed this book and Nyssa's journey into accepting all the things she has resisted!
Nyssa is such a complex character (in a good way!). She is a reluctant hero and is now struggling with the trauma and nightmares from her previous battles. She is also struggling with feelings of rejection from the Nephilim, feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome. She battles with letting her friends help her and putting them in danger. She is overwhelmed on so many fronts that she just doesn't even know if she can do it. One of the major battles of this book is with herself!
Nyssa's friends prove time and again that they are there for her. She discovers the reason the Nephilim have been absent but still gets support from them. Danika is such a wonderful familiar who is steadfast in her faith of Nyssa. She is the biggest catalyst to begin the change in Nyssa. We get to see more of all her found family towards the end of the book and I love how they all work together.
The plot moves along at the perfect pace and it's easy to get lost in this book! Even when there is "down time", there is something going on. In between all this relic hunting, Nyssa is still trying to get her shop figured out. So, we still get the small cozy scenes with Divine Coffee or her brewing her potions as well. I enjoyed this book and Nyssa's journey into accepting all the things she has resisted!
January 9, 2025
This book picks up nicely from the events of Book 1. Given how things were when we left off, the tone of Forged In Moonlight is more serious. I wouldn't consider it overly dark and it's well in line with the style of the first book, but there are fewer opportunities for lighter, more whimsical moments as the story picks up.
It felt to me like the story needed some time to find traction, but once the main thrust of the plot picked up, things proceeded at a nice clip. I really appreciated how Nyssa was suffering from PTSD-like symptoms after the climax of the first book - that would be totally expected from what she went through and it's a nice touch of realism. In addition, as frustrating as I found her insistence that she not burden her friends with her own fears and traumas, that is very believable. I like it when characters make bad choices - overly perfect characters are trite and boring.
I will admit there were a few sections where I had a hard time understanding what was REALLY happening to Nyssa. Between her PTSD, the power of the nightbane, and the possibility that there was real danger in the moment, I was sometimes unclear what the stakes actually were. That might have just been me, or a deliberate attempt by the author to put the reader in Nyssa's confused headspace. If it was the latter, it was quite effective, though a device like that starts to lose its effectiveness if overused.
I'm also picking up a really slow burn relationship budding (I won't say who because of spoilers) and that is also a nice touch. Oftentimes those things are rushed which makes them seem forced. I like how things are able to play out in their own time.
Overall, this was an exciting follow-up, and I will definitely be following Nyssa's adventures in the next installment!
It felt to me like the story needed some time to find traction, but once the main thrust of the plot picked up, things proceeded at a nice clip. I really appreciated how Nyssa was suffering from PTSD-like symptoms after the climax of the first book - that would be totally expected from what she went through and it's a nice touch of realism. In addition, as frustrating as I found her insistence that she not burden her friends with her own fears and traumas, that is very believable. I like it when characters make bad choices - overly perfect characters are trite and boring.
I will admit there were a few sections where I had a hard time understanding what was REALLY happening to Nyssa. Between her PTSD, the power of the nightbane, and the possibility that there was real danger in the moment, I was sometimes unclear what the stakes actually were. That might have just been me, or a deliberate attempt by the author to put the reader in Nyssa's confused headspace. If it was the latter, it was quite effective, though a device like that starts to lose its effectiveness if overused.
I'm also picking up a really slow burn relationship budding (I won't say who because of spoilers) and that is also a nice touch. Oftentimes those things are rushed which makes them seem forced. I like how things are able to play out in their own time.
Overall, this was an exciting follow-up, and I will definitely be following Nyssa's adventures in the next installment!
November 28, 2024
This book took me a little while to get into, I’ve been reading cozy fantasy and this is definitely not cozy, but a great read.
This follows the book The Last Lunar Witch by about two months. Nyssa is trying to recover from her actions in that book. I would not read this book if you haven’t read the first one yet, there are too many things that happened that explain what is happening. Although the author has fantastically written a prequel chapter refreshing everything.
Nyssa now knows what the problem with her magic was (she has both lunar and solar powers that don’t blend easily). Unfortunately, she is struggling with her memories and nightmares. Unwilling to discuss anything with either her familiar or friends, she is having problems. She is still working for the sentient coffee house, the Divine, and working on her alchemic potions as well as trying to open a shop.
After conducting a lunar ceremony for the shifters, getting a magical circlet along with a vision, things start to really happen. When the Nephilim, Kaelan, crashes through her window with his memories in tatters, the trouble expands.
This book is basically a steady stream of action, Nyssa is a hot mess at times with her flashbacks and fears but she keeps battling through. Danika, her familiar is a great help especially when Nyssa lets her in. There were a few times I felt very frustrated with Nyssa but understandable.
This was a great read, not necessarily easy but extremely enjoyable. Looking forward to more books in this world.
This follows the book The Last Lunar Witch by about two months. Nyssa is trying to recover from her actions in that book. I would not read this book if you haven’t read the first one yet, there are too many things that happened that explain what is happening. Although the author has fantastically written a prequel chapter refreshing everything.
Nyssa now knows what the problem with her magic was (she has both lunar and solar powers that don’t blend easily). Unfortunately, she is struggling with her memories and nightmares. Unwilling to discuss anything with either her familiar or friends, she is having problems. She is still working for the sentient coffee house, the Divine, and working on her alchemic potions as well as trying to open a shop.
After conducting a lunar ceremony for the shifters, getting a magical circlet along with a vision, things start to really happen. When the Nephilim, Kaelan, crashes through her window with his memories in tatters, the trouble expands.
This book is basically a steady stream of action, Nyssa is a hot mess at times with her flashbacks and fears but she keeps battling through. Danika, her familiar is a great help especially when Nyssa lets her in. There were a few times I felt very frustrated with Nyssa but understandable.
This was a great read, not necessarily easy but extremely enjoyable. Looking forward to more books in this world.
December 13, 2025
OMG
Forged in Moonlight takes everything that worked in the first book and pushes it deeper in ever way: emotionally, thematically, and character-wise.
This installment doesn’t gloss over what Nyssa went through in The Last Lunar Witch. Instead, it centers the aftermath. She’s haunted by nightmares, struggling with fear and self-doubt, and trying to return to a quiet life of baking and brewing potions while carrying the weight of what she’s already survived. I really appreciated that the story treats trauma as something that lingers, rather than something a hero just shrugs off. I cannot stress enough how well done this was.
The character development in this book was peak. This book creates an even stronger emotional connection to Nyssa and the people around her. The found family dynamic continues to grow, and the relationships feel more layered and meaningful as the characters are tested. Nyssa’s reluctance to ask for help was frustrating in a very human way, and watching her slowly come into her own made the payoff feel earned.
The pacing picks up once the story settles in, turning into a fast, engaging read that balances action, humor, and introspection. The slow-burn, fade-to-black romance continues to simmer in the background without overtaking the plot, which worked really well for this stage of the series.
This has quickly become one of my favorite series of 2025
Forged in Moonlight takes everything that worked in the first book and pushes it deeper in ever way: emotionally, thematically, and character-wise.
This installment doesn’t gloss over what Nyssa went through in The Last Lunar Witch. Instead, it centers the aftermath. She’s haunted by nightmares, struggling with fear and self-doubt, and trying to return to a quiet life of baking and brewing potions while carrying the weight of what she’s already survived. I really appreciated that the story treats trauma as something that lingers, rather than something a hero just shrugs off. I cannot stress enough how well done this was.
The character development in this book was peak. This book creates an even stronger emotional connection to Nyssa and the people around her. The found family dynamic continues to grow, and the relationships feel more layered and meaningful as the characters are tested. Nyssa’s reluctance to ask for help was frustrating in a very human way, and watching her slowly come into her own made the payoff feel earned.
The pacing picks up once the story settles in, turning into a fast, engaging read that balances action, humor, and introspection. The slow-burn, fade-to-black romance continues to simmer in the background without overtaking the plot, which worked really well for this stage of the series.
This has quickly become one of my favorite series of 2025
April 15, 2025
This emotionally gripping sequel dives deep into the hearts of its characters, especially Nyssa, whose journey is both painful and powerfully relatable. The Nephilim, while not as involved as book 1, also had backstories revealed in this book that acted as a punch to the heart, making them each more compelling! Nyssa’s personal struggles are explored with such detail that even her most frustrating choices feel understandable and human. While the beginning is a bit slow and initially confusing, especially if there’s been time between books, the story quickly picks up with a well-paced buildup that leads to a truly rewarding climax. The slow burn romantic subplot is expertly crafted, filled with crackling tension that keeps readers holding their breath for a release that never quite comes - yet. With Nyssa’s incredible character development and the promise of even more intensity to come, this book sets the stage for an exciting third installment.
Tropes Include:
Found Family
Trauma & Healing Rep
Self Discovery
Witches, Nephilim, & other Magical Beings
Tropes Include:
Found Family
Trauma & Healing Rep
Self Discovery
Witches, Nephilim, & other Magical Beings
January 3, 2025
A few urban fantasies with a witch or wizard end up being a detective one. Not this one and it's refreshing to the genre for that reason. This story deals with the fallout of the first one, and the scars that left on the MC Nyssa. How easy she helps her friends and how hard it is to have the courage to ask them for help too. Friendship is in this story, but it isn't the focus, it's about Nyssa stepping up- and knowing she can ask help. The mission of this story helps create the tension needed to carry the internal struggle along while still building the world. Danika is still my favorite in this book! Looking forward to book three with how Nyssa changed in this one.
December 16, 2025
Forged in Moonlight deepens the world of The Lunar Order Chronicles with higher stakes, sharper conflicts, and characters who feel increasingly forged by their choices. S.F. Henne expands the mythology beautifully, balancing political intrigue, magic, and emotional tension without slowing the pace. The relationships—both alliances and rivalries—are more complex here, and the moonlit atmosphere remains richly immersive. A strong, satisfying sequel that builds momentum and leaves you eager for what comes next.
December 31, 2025
This series is fantastic. I’m absolutely hooked. I love that book one two and three so I don’t have to stop reading and get a different book. I can just read all the way through to book 3. I just gotta hope and pray that there’s a book for cause it’s full of twist turns and action and adventure and in my opinion, it’s pretty fast paced.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 4, 2024
I would suggest reading The Last Lunar Witch before jumping into this amazing second book in the series. Forged In Moonlight is a face paced, action packed, thrilling read. Nyssa wants a peaceful life until she has a vision and must seek out the lunar relic. I enjoyed this read. I had a hard time putting it down and got lost in it for hours at a time.
December 5, 2024
The second book in this series is as good if not better than the first. Nyssa has not heard from her nephilim friends in months. She keeps having nightmares about the dark ones. The characters are strong and engaging and S. F. Henne's creative skills with her world building skills really shine. I absolutely recommend this book.
December 9, 2025
I must say the first book in this series was very good but I think the second one out does it. It took on a political struggle between departments of the city and what I would call the country. And this girl is just thrown into the world. Again I love the inclusion of the Nephilim. I think it is a great YA epic fantasy in a modern setting. So excited to read the next one!!
December 24, 2025
In the beginning I had some trouble getting back into the story for a bit. The pace is slower for the majority of this book. While also getting a lot of information about our characters. We have all struggled at some point with our personal demons. It is nice to see that in character. It makes them more relatable to me. Also her familiar is my favorite.
November 29, 2025
Action packed! plot was amazing.The story is really good.Characters are showing growth , and it was well written.
December 5, 2025
Oooo this was cool! This one really picked up. A big magic add on. A little romance in addition to all the other genres. A HUGE dramatic adventure. Lots of suspense. I really liked this one.
December 19, 2024
I enjoyed this second book more than the first. It still drives me crazy that Nyssa is so hard on herself. Even Selene herself tells her she can do it. A little confidence will go a long way for her in mastering her magic. She does learn some hard lessons along the way. We continue to see her character grow. I'm looking forward to where her journey leads in the next book.
I love Divine Coffee, the sentient Cafe where Nyssa works. Always looking out for everyone. Nyssa has a great group of supernaturals in her corner.
I love Divine Coffee, the sentient Cafe where Nyssa works. Always looking out for everyone. Nyssa has a great group of supernaturals in her corner.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews