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Heart of the Moon Goddess: A Philippine Mythology Retelling of the Bakunawa and the moon goddess.
A girl born with the power of the moon.
A prince gifted with the radiance of the sun.
And the rise of the sea king, the Bakunawa.
Luna has been haunted by the same dream for weeks—tortured by flames in an arena, accused of witchcraft, and saved by a mysterious figure. Raised in the House of Wives, she was groomed to become a future bride for royals and noblemen. But Luna harbors a her heart glows like the moon.
During a sea voyage with the prince, Luna falls overboard and discovers an underwater cave. There, she encounters a man in chains who bears a striking resemblance to her dream’s savior.
As Luna unravels the mystery of her dreams and her glowing heart, she must confront a destiny that could change everything.
A prince gifted with the radiance of the sun.
And the rise of the sea king, the Bakunawa.
Luna has been haunted by the same dream for weeks—tortured by flames in an arena, accused of witchcraft, and saved by a mysterious figure. Raised in the House of Wives, she was groomed to become a future bride for royals and noblemen. But Luna harbors a her heart glows like the moon.
During a sea voyage with the prince, Luna falls overboard and discovers an underwater cave. There, she encounters a man in chains who bears a striking resemblance to her dream’s savior.
As Luna unravels the mystery of her dreams and her glowing heart, she must confront a destiny that could change everything.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2024
1 person is currently reading
106 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 19, 2024
I've been a fan of this author since her debut novel "Before I Go" and as much as I enjoyed that, I prefer this book a whole lot more. It has the elements I've always loved: fantasy, action, plot twists, thrill, fight scenes, magic, and of course romance. It's still poetically and melodically written, and has the same signature "feels" by the author. But what sets this story apart, at least for me, is the PHILIPPINE lore! She made something so unique out of the myths and legends of the Philippines, which tied so smoothly to the theme of the story without making it sound contrived at all. In fact, if anything, the story made me want to learn more about the country's legends.
Another thing I truly appreciate about this writer is the fact that her books are generally clean/ wholesome in the sense that there's no descriptive raunch scene at all - which makes me feel safe in recommending this to my family and friends.
If you're looking for an oh-so-beautifully written romantasy featuring Philippine myths and legends, with a unique author's signature poetic touch, you must pick up this book!
Another thing I truly appreciate about this writer is the fact that her books are generally clean/ wholesome in the sense that there's no descriptive raunch scene at all - which makes me feel safe in recommending this to my family and friends.
If you're looking for an oh-so-beautifully written romantasy featuring Philippine myths and legends, with a unique author's signature poetic touch, you must pick up this book!
August 17, 2024
ARC: Heart of the Moon Goddess
by Joline Lim
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First of all, I would like to thank Joline for this opportunity! It’s been an honor to read an advance copy of your wonderful book! This is my first time ever to write an ARC review and I am so glad to be able to this.
Reading The Heart of the Moon Goddess made me so happy not only because of the story itself, but it was also nice to be able to read a fantasy book based on the Philippine Mythology. I was amazed because I didn’t even know that I would like and love it the same way I love reading about the famous Greek and Roman Mythology, especially when they’re included in such fantasy books like The Heart of the Moon Goddess. The mentions of the Bakunawa, Tikbalang, Bathala, Babaylan, and other more mythological creatures in the Philippines made me feel a sense of pride just because I rarely encounter them in (modern) fantasy books. Having read The Heart of the Moon Goddess just made me want to explore more about the Philippine Mythology and look for more fantasy books about them because they’re really that interesting.
Needless to say, I enjoyed reading this book. The author wanted an honest review from me and this is what I am giving: the book is very well written, the representations and depictions of each and every mythological creatures mentioned on the book were spot-on, and the plot itself is so beautiful that it frustrated me when I finished reading it.
I guess that was the only downside of this: NAKAKABITIN 😭 I wish this had more pages because I wanted to know more about Mayari and Baku and almost all the backstories of each and every character. But the author herself told me that she only wrote this for a 30-day writing challenge so she had to have all of this done in 30 days. I SAY IMPRESSIVE! 👏
This book also reminded me of the Shadow and Bone Trilogy! I won’t be saying much because it could be a spoiler! 🤭
If you’re looking for a short but very worth-the-read book, please get a copy of this one when this comes out because I swear, it’s worth it.
by Joline Lim
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First of all, I would like to thank Joline for this opportunity! It’s been an honor to read an advance copy of your wonderful book! This is my first time ever to write an ARC review and I am so glad to be able to this.
Reading The Heart of the Moon Goddess made me so happy not only because of the story itself, but it was also nice to be able to read a fantasy book based on the Philippine Mythology. I was amazed because I didn’t even know that I would like and love it the same way I love reading about the famous Greek and Roman Mythology, especially when they’re included in such fantasy books like The Heart of the Moon Goddess. The mentions of the Bakunawa, Tikbalang, Bathala, Babaylan, and other more mythological creatures in the Philippines made me feel a sense of pride just because I rarely encounter them in (modern) fantasy books. Having read The Heart of the Moon Goddess just made me want to explore more about the Philippine Mythology and look for more fantasy books about them because they’re really that interesting.
Needless to say, I enjoyed reading this book. The author wanted an honest review from me and this is what I am giving: the book is very well written, the representations and depictions of each and every mythological creatures mentioned on the book were spot-on, and the plot itself is so beautiful that it frustrated me when I finished reading it.
I guess that was the only downside of this: NAKAKABITIN 😭 I wish this had more pages because I wanted to know more about Mayari and Baku and almost all the backstories of each and every character. But the author herself told me that she only wrote this for a 30-day writing challenge so she had to have all of this done in 30 days. I SAY IMPRESSIVE! 👏
This book also reminded me of the Shadow and Bone Trilogy! I won’t be saying much because it could be a spoiler! 🤭
If you’re looking for a short but very worth-the-read book, please get a copy of this one when this comes out because I swear, it’s worth it.
August 18, 2024
As a Cebuana girlie, I love the representation this book brings us Filipino!
Luna's been having strange dreams where she was burned alive but saved by a mysterious man. She harbored a deep secret where her heart glows like the moon, and it's important to keep it hidden. When she embarked on a new adventure, she met a man who looked like her savior. As her past kept up with her, she need to face her destiny that will change her life forever.
I'm a non-fantasy girlie and this book doesn't have a lot of world-building but it's so easy to follow along since we are learning together with the FMC. I love the Filipino legends and folktales incorporated in this book.
Short and quick read that will keep you on your toes. The whole book was magical, emotional with a sprinkle of great fantasy elements all in one.
Honestly, I pictured Luna and Baku as Galadriel and Sauron from The Rings of Power!
P.S. The author wrote this book in 30 days and it's already amazing, how much more if she was given a chance to write without time limit? The possibilities are endless!
Luna's been having strange dreams where she was burned alive but saved by a mysterious man. She harbored a deep secret where her heart glows like the moon, and it's important to keep it hidden. When she embarked on a new adventure, she met a man who looked like her savior. As her past kept up with her, she need to face her destiny that will change her life forever.
I'm a non-fantasy girlie and this book doesn't have a lot of world-building but it's so easy to follow along since we are learning together with the FMC. I love the Filipino legends and folktales incorporated in this book.
Short and quick read that will keep you on your toes. The whole book was magical, emotional with a sprinkle of great fantasy elements all in one.
Honestly, I pictured Luna and Baku as Galadriel and Sauron from The Rings of Power!
P.S. The author wrote this book in 30 days and it's already amazing, how much more if she was given a chance to write without time limit? The possibilities are endless!
August 9, 2024
THIS FEELS LIKE A STORYBOOK BUT A LOT LOT BETTER!!! MY KIDDY HEART IS HAPPY!!!
I never had the opportunity to have enough access to the books I wanted to read when I was a kid. This retelling, surprisingly, is something that gave me the warmest hug I could ever imagine and it somehow gave nostalgia as if I was in our little classrooom when I was a kid reading this story.
This book with less than 200 pages made me travel back to these legendary places through my imagination. The author's love with the Bakunawa and the Seven Moons was really shown in this book and was also justified based on my honest opinion.
Knowing that this is a product of a reading challenge, I really can say that Jo did a great job.
I liked how love, trust, betrayal and forgiveness were shown in the story with respect to the different legends of the Philippines. The last parts of the book left me hanging to what would happen next because I can also feel Mayari - it really feels like a beginning of something terrible.
Good read! Suitable for any readers! Very short and light but informative and easy to understand. It will definitely play with your imagination, which I love.
PLEASE GET A COPY ONCE THIS IS PUBLISHED. WORTH IT.
I never had the opportunity to have enough access to the books I wanted to read when I was a kid. This retelling, surprisingly, is something that gave me the warmest hug I could ever imagine and it somehow gave nostalgia as if I was in our little classrooom when I was a kid reading this story.
This book with less than 200 pages made me travel back to these legendary places through my imagination. The author's love with the Bakunawa and the Seven Moons was really shown in this book and was also justified based on my honest opinion.
Knowing that this is a product of a reading challenge, I really can say that Jo did a great job.
I liked how love, trust, betrayal and forgiveness were shown in the story with respect to the different legends of the Philippines. The last parts of the book left me hanging to what would happen next because I can also feel Mayari - it really feels like a beginning of something terrible.
Good read! Suitable for any readers! Very short and light but informative and easy to understand. It will definitely play with your imagination, which I love.
PLEASE GET A COPY ONCE THIS IS PUBLISHED. WORTH IT.
August 26, 2024
Book Review: Heart of the Moon Goddess by Joline Lim
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My rating: 5 ⭐️
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Haunted by dreams of fiery trials and a mysterious savior, Luna, raised to be a bride, discovers an underwater cave and a chained man who resembles her dream guardian. As her heart’s secret glows, Luna must face a destiny that could alter her world.
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I LOVE THIS.
Joline is a talented writer and her poetic voice fits this fantasy novel very well. I love how it is remniscient of loved fairytales. The narrative is captivatingly fast-paced, maintaining a thrilling momentum while ensuring that neither the plot nor the world-building feels rushed or underdeveloped.
I love the characters and especially the myths that surrounds them. It adds a fresh and intriguing dimension to the story. It's about time we have more romantasy / fantasy books that is based on Philippine Mythology!
The author wrote this within 30 days and it turned out great. I am excited to see what's in store of the next of the series when she has spent more time on it. (I'm also really excited about Sitan. That proclamation FLOORED me)
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My rating: 5 ⭐️
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Haunted by dreams of fiery trials and a mysterious savior, Luna, raised to be a bride, discovers an underwater cave and a chained man who resembles her dream guardian. As her heart’s secret glows, Luna must face a destiny that could alter her world.
-----
I LOVE THIS.
Joline is a talented writer and her poetic voice fits this fantasy novel very well. I love how it is remniscient of loved fairytales. The narrative is captivatingly fast-paced, maintaining a thrilling momentum while ensuring that neither the plot nor the world-building feels rushed or underdeveloped.
I love the characters and especially the myths that surrounds them. It adds a fresh and intriguing dimension to the story. It's about time we have more romantasy / fantasy books that is based on Philippine Mythology!
The author wrote this within 30 days and it turned out great. I am excited to see what's in store of the next of the series when she has spent more time on it. (I'm also really excited about Sitan. That proclamation FLOORED me)
August 11, 2024
Such a good read! 💜🌙 This is definitely the author’s genre. Nobody fight me lol. It truly brings you to a different world (basically every fantasy reader’s dream, duh!). I love how it stayed true to its purpose of enticing the readers to explore and get to know Philippine mythology. The end of every chapter is a page turner that will leave you wanting for more. And my gosh THAT ENDING!!!! 🤯 SERVED, ATE, DEVOURED.. pls give me more 😂 If you’re having second thoughts about reading this, trust me, the Prologue will be enough to get you hooked.
PS: Thank you for the ARC, Jols! Rooting for you always. 💖
PS: Thank you for the ARC, Jols! Rooting for you always. 💖
October 5, 2024
I have always been fascinated by mythology - Greek, Roman, Norse--and lastly, our local folklore. Philippine mythology has always been varied-- the stories seem to evolve per region.
The author's novel highlighted very much Philippine mythology, as she weaved different versions of Mayari and Bakunawa and made it her own.
The promise of a Philippine mythology-inspired novella made me think of Joel Donato Ching Jacob's Wing of the Locust (another great read! A little bit technical for an average reader, but very, very engaging!), and I just wished Heart of the Moon Goddess has less Western influences. Instead of Datus, they have kings. The Selection process made me think of Selection Series by Keira Cass. Luna's gown made me think of European ball gowns. Despite these details, the author has made research on the different versions of the lore, and other characters in our mythology, and it shows! 👏
The author's writing style was one of the best I've read recently. The words just keep flowing, and her narration was phenomenal. In fact, I think it was her writing that made me finish the book in one sitting. I can easily feel the emotions of her characters through the writing- especially during Luna's first encounter with Prince Aman. I even found myself squealing in delight and giddiness when the two characters met again in the castle for the selection.
I was actually fascinated by Apokalaki and his love story. I was hoping to read more about it. The author was able to make the forbidden love story of Mayari and Bakunawa so sweet, that I was drooling.
I hope there will be a sequel since I am very much invested on these characters, and I'm hoping to read more new characters as well. Ligaya, for a fact, also piqued my curiosity.
Fun fact, Heart of the Moon Goddess was the first on my to-buy list last MIBF. I was kinda dismayed when it got sold out on the first day! 😅 I was lucky to get my hands on it the following days 🥰 If there will be a sequel, I will make sure to grab a copy the moment it hit the shelves!
The author's novel highlighted very much Philippine mythology, as she weaved different versions of Mayari and Bakunawa and made it her own.
The promise of a Philippine mythology-inspired novella made me think of Joel Donato Ching Jacob's Wing of the Locust (another great read! A little bit technical for an average reader, but very, very engaging!), and I just wished Heart of the Moon Goddess has less Western influences. Instead of Datus, they have kings. The Selection process made me think of Selection Series by Keira Cass. Luna's gown made me think of European ball gowns. Despite these details, the author has made research on the different versions of the lore, and other characters in our mythology, and it shows! 👏
The author's writing style was one of the best I've read recently. The words just keep flowing, and her narration was phenomenal. In fact, I think it was her writing that made me finish the book in one sitting. I can easily feel the emotions of her characters through the writing- especially during Luna's first encounter with Prince Aman. I even found myself squealing in delight and giddiness when the two characters met again in the castle for the selection.
I was actually fascinated by Apokalaki and his love story. I was hoping to read more about it. The author was able to make the forbidden love story of Mayari and Bakunawa so sweet, that I was drooling.
I hope there will be a sequel since I am very much invested on these characters, and I'm hoping to read more new characters as well. Ligaya, for a fact, also piqued my curiosity.
Fun fact, Heart of the Moon Goddess was the first on my to-buy list last MIBF. I was kinda dismayed when it got sold out on the first day! 😅 I was lucky to get my hands on it the following days 🥰 If there will be a sequel, I will make sure to grab a copy the moment it hit the shelves!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2024
Ok... Is there book 2? Actual rating is 4.5
All I want this to be longer..good read
physical copy has print issues in the table of contents but not a big problem
All I want this to be longer..good read
physical copy has print issues in the table of contents but not a big problem
August 12, 2025
⭐ 5/5
While Luna lived a very ordinary existence at the house of wives, where they are trained to be future brides of noblemen and royals, she is about to discover a whole other realm different from what she grew up believing, and more surprisingly, she is going to discover her true divine identity.
This magical book with a hint of romance is truly a masterpiece! ✨
Even though the book is short, it is packed with action, featuring intricately crafted scenes that keep you engaged. Ms. @authorjodiary crafted a short novel rich in detail, yet it flows effortlessly without feeling rushed. And she definitely knows how to make our Pinay hearts flutter! 😍
While Luna lived a very ordinary existence at the house of wives, where they are trained to be future brides of noblemen and royals, she is about to discover a whole other realm different from what she grew up believing, and more surprisingly, she is going to discover her true divine identity.
This magical book with a hint of romance is truly a masterpiece! ✨
Even though the book is short, it is packed with action, featuring intricately crafted scenes that keep you engaged. Ms. @authorjodiary crafted a short novel rich in detail, yet it flows effortlessly without feeling rushed. And she definitely knows how to make our Pinay hearts flutter! 😍
September 7, 2024
I've wanted to read this book since I saw the post from Jo. This was the first book that I was initially planning to purchase fom her works. I'm a huge sucker for mythology and pretty covers. And this book hits those! Philippine Mythology and that cover which looks like E. Lim's books? Why not!
I wanted to get a physical copy, ended getting kindle version because I got a new ereader. And of course, this was the very first book I read on my boox! 😁
This book is less than 200 pages, a quick read but still entertaining. And OMG, THE TWISTS!!! 😳🤯 I loved there were bits of history so it would be easy to understand. The way it was written was easy to play out in my head (even if I was already a bit sleepy reading the book since it was way past my bed time 🤭).
Will definitely recommend this to my friends who would want to read PH Myths. I'm even planning to give this out to my godkids too since I think it's age appropriate for them.
And now the epilogue, that took me a suprise! 😳 it got me thinking, is this going to be a book series?! I hope so!!!
I wanted to get a physical copy, ended getting kindle version because I got a new ereader. And of course, this was the very first book I read on my boox! 😁
This book is less than 200 pages, a quick read but still entertaining. And OMG, THE TWISTS!!! 😳🤯 I loved there were bits of history so it would be easy to understand. The way it was written was easy to play out in my head (even if I was already a bit sleepy reading the book since it was way past my bed time 🤭).
Will definitely recommend this to my friends who would want to read PH Myths. I'm even planning to give this out to my godkids too since I think it's age appropriate for them.
And now the epilogue, that took me a suprise! 😳 it got me thinking, is this going to be a book series?! I hope so!!!
June 2, 2025
I enjoyed it but I’m not screaming about it from rooftops.
The incorporation of Philippine mythology felt fresh and had this lush magical potential. The writing was digestible and vivid enough for a casual fantasy mood— an easy read.
BUT the characters didn’t hit me in the gut. I wanted to care more, but they felt written more for plot mechanics than emotional resonance. The world felt underbaked and the ending was a little bit unsatisfactory.
So yeah—it’s a good book.
Would I reread? Probably not.
The incorporation of Philippine mythology felt fresh and had this lush magical potential. The writing was digestible and vivid enough for a casual fantasy mood— an easy read.
BUT the characters didn’t hit me in the gut. I wanted to care more, but they felt written more for plot mechanics than emotional resonance. The world felt underbaked and the ending was a little bit unsatisfactory.
So yeah—it’s a good book.
Would I reread? Probably not.
February 15, 2025
You always found me first.
My Synopsis:
Luna has been having mysterious dreams. But that isn't the only thing mysterious about her. Her heart glows like the moon.
Abandoned on the doorsteps of the House of Wives, Luna has been trained to become a future bride. But will the mysterious things about her give her a different future than what she had in mind?
My thoughts:
This was a really fun read! I've only been recently introduced to the Bakunawa (or only recently paid attention to it) and the imagery of seven moons in the sky is so beautiful that it's easy to villainize the monstrous serpent for eating the other six. The book mentions that there are many different versions of the Bakunawa story while being its own version too.
This was easy to read, and fast-paced. There were lots of twists and mystery around the characters and the reveals were great.
I would have wanted more descriptions of the setting, and also more details about but hopefully those will be present in book 2. I also would have wanted to fall in love with the love interest (or interests) too, so I wish that part was explored a little more.
In the author's note, it said she wanted to spark a curiosity in readers for this mythology, and with me she succeeded. While reading the book, I found myself looking up the creatures mentioned here to know more about them. It made me appreciate our (Filipinos) precolonial beliefs before Christianity was introduced.
Overall, this was good and I'm really impressed with it. The epilogue promises more things to happen for the second book in the series and I can't wait!
How I found out about this: The author and I are in the same book club, but aside from that, the people who've read this praise it highly.
Who should read this: People who are interested to read about Philippine mythology but in a fun and accessible story.
September 26, 2025
Been waiting to read this since last year's MIBF and was only able to get a copy this year. Overall, I liked the incorporation of Philippine mythology, I really feel like we need more representation of that in fiction. However, the plot for me kinda felt rushed, making the story seem more like a short story instead. I also felt no connection to the characters at all, like there was no one I can really root for and relate to. Also the romance plot felt like it came so suddenly like there was no build up nor bonding between the characters for me to say the romance felt real.
****SPOILER AHEAD****
****SPOILER END****
The story also ends kinda abruptly and open ended, which makes me assume that there might be a second book, but I doubt it as of now.
****SPOILER AHEAD****
****SPOILER END****
The story also ends kinda abruptly and open ended, which makes me assume that there might be a second book, but I doubt it as of now.
August 9, 2024
This beautifully written story transported me to a mesmerizing world where the power of the moon, the radiance of the sun, and the rise of a sea king intertwine in a tale of destiny and self-discovery. 'The Heart of the Moon Goddess' weaves a spellbinding narrative that follows Luna's journey from the confines of the House of Wives to the depths of the sea, where secrets and mysteries await. The characters, particularly Luna and the enigmatic man in chains, are beautifully developed, it drew me into their world of magic and intrigue. As Luna unravels the threads of her dreams and confronts her glowing heart, the story unfolds with a perfect blend of mystery and emotion. ❤️🌟
I love diving into different mythologies and traditions as they offer a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and stories that have shaped societies throughout history. Each folklore carries its own magic and wisdom, making the journey through diverse cultural tales truly enriching and enlightening. This book's tie to Filipino folklore adds such a unique cultural layer to the narrative, weaving in local legends and traditions. The Philippines holds a special place in my heart, like a second home since I was a kid, and I was completely spellbound on every part of this story from start to finish. This book is a must-read for those who crave a touch of magic and a journey of self-discovery.
Thank you, @authorjodiary 🌟 , for sharing your beautiful story with me and providing me with an ARC for my honest review. I can't wait to explore more of Luna's exciting adventures that lie ahead.📚💕
I love diving into different mythologies and traditions as they offer a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and stories that have shaped societies throughout history. Each folklore carries its own magic and wisdom, making the journey through diverse cultural tales truly enriching and enlightening. This book's tie to Filipino folklore adds such a unique cultural layer to the narrative, weaving in local legends and traditions. The Philippines holds a special place in my heart, like a second home since I was a kid, and I was completely spellbound on every part of this story from start to finish. This book is a must-read for those who crave a touch of magic and a journey of self-discovery.
Thank you, @authorjodiary 🌟 , for sharing your beautiful story with me and providing me with an ARC for my honest review. I can't wait to explore more of Luna's exciting adventures that lie ahead.📚💕
September 7, 2024
"For the dreamers who see wonder in the ordinary, know this: the legends are real."
Lim again showcased her impeccable and unique writing style by marrying romance and Philippine mythology. I love the diversity of the characters in the novel. Each character plays an important role in Luna's quest to find the mystery behind your crazy dreams at night. What I also love about this novel is that it exceeds your expectations. You can reread it for quite some other time because it was perfectly made for those readers who crave Philippine mythology, with a romance on the side and a little action and thriller in the middle. The novel also features some important and remarkable Philippine magical creatures including "Babaylans", "Mangkukulams", "Tikbalangs" and "Huklubaan" which gives readers the overall oomph experience of the novel.
Congratulations again, Joline. You have grown so much as an incredible author. Thank you for inspiring me to love books and writing again. Now, where's the book 2 of this novel?! Just kidding!
Lim again showcased her impeccable and unique writing style by marrying romance and Philippine mythology. I love the diversity of the characters in the novel. Each character plays an important role in Luna's quest to find the mystery behind your crazy dreams at night. What I also love about this novel is that it exceeds your expectations. You can reread it for quite some other time because it was perfectly made for those readers who crave Philippine mythology, with a romance on the side and a little action and thriller in the middle. The novel also features some important and remarkable Philippine magical creatures including "Babaylans", "Mangkukulams", "Tikbalangs" and "Huklubaan" which gives readers the overall oomph experience of the novel.
Congratulations again, Joline. You have grown so much as an incredible author. Thank you for inspiring me to love books and writing again. Now, where's the book 2 of this novel?! Just kidding!
October 31, 2024
I bought a physical copy of Heart of the Moon Goddess during MIBF this year and I’m glad I did as this was the first book I finished after my years long reading-slump. My favorite part of this novel is definitely the Filipino Mythology aspect of it, it was magical. The characters were very likeable—the introduction of Baku was very effective, I mean, who wouldn’t love a mysterious serpent king who has loved one woman for thousands of years. However, I would have loved to see a dramatic shift within Luna as she remembered the memories of Mayari, for her to feel more ancient and all-knowing as gods are seen to be. I loved the world-building, especially the descriptions of the Kingdom that Baku and Mayari ruled. The love story of the book made me giddy, I loved it so much. The last thing I want to point out is the language; although the text used descriptive language, some words or phrases were noticeably repeated. Nonetheless, I overall enjoyed this book. Thank you, Author! I look forward to reading more of your works.
November 27, 2025
I finished this book in just five hours during a night shift—proof of how light, smooth, and effortlessly readable it is. The storytelling flows so well that it’s easy to devour in a single sitting.
While the pacing felt a bit too quick at times and a few moments came off anticlimactic, there’s so much potential in the characters that I would’ve loved to see explored even more. Magi, for example, was introduced as the strongest Mangkukulam, and I found myself wishing to witness the full range of her powers beyond the brief glimpse of portal magic.
The retelling of the Bakunawa swallowing the moons was interesting, and I only wished it had dug deeper into how the love story blossomed after such a grand mythic event. A little more detail there would’ve made it even more captivating.
Overall, it’s an enjoyable, easy read with a lot of charm—one that leaves you wanting a bit more in the best way.
While the pacing felt a bit too quick at times and a few moments came off anticlimactic, there’s so much potential in the characters that I would’ve loved to see explored even more. Magi, for example, was introduced as the strongest Mangkukulam, and I found myself wishing to witness the full range of her powers beyond the brief glimpse of portal magic.
The retelling of the Bakunawa swallowing the moons was interesting, and I only wished it had dug deeper into how the love story blossomed after such a grand mythic event. A little more detail there would’ve made it even more captivating.
Overall, it’s an enjoyable, easy read with a lot of charm—one that leaves you wanting a bit more in the best way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2024
I really liked this book. I ate it up and enjoyed the story so much. Mythology and folklore are topics that I have always loved and found fascinating. This book gave me a better appreciation and intrigue about our country’s tales and mythical creatures. It was interesting to be introduced to the old gods of the country as well as other mythical creatures that are not as commonly known.
This retelling was quite dreamy and quick-paced, but considering it’s a novella, it’s understandable. However, even with the pacing, the story didn’t feel rushed. I also appreciated the footnotes provided in the book.
The ending though made me crave for more and to see a sequel come out!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶
This retelling was quite dreamy and quick-paced, but considering it’s a novella, it’s understandable. However, even with the pacing, the story didn’t feel rushed. I also appreciated the footnotes provided in the book.
The ending though made me crave for more and to see a sequel come out!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶
June 10, 2025
5 stars.
The ending made my jaw drop and I had to pick it up after a good 30 seconds because THAT WAS AMAZING. One of my resolutions for this year is to read more Filipino-written book, but I've been eyeing this book since last year. I caved a few months back and got it on Kindle, and now that I'm done, this book is giving me a bad hangover.
Heart of the Moon Goddess is a romantasy with elements of Filipino Mythology. My elementary school was one of the few schools that gave an in-depth class on Filipino Mythology, so when I read this retelling, it seriously touched a place in my heart. I enjoyed the writing. Joline's writing style knows when to hit. It's a poetic writing style that fits mythological retellings, that's why I think it was especially effective to me.
Honestly, I could go on and on about praising this book, but this is a wonderful experience, something that is familiar to me as a child, being retold in a beautiful, romantic way. I enjoyed this, this is an incredible read. I really like it when novellas feel so fleshed out like it's written like a full novel.
The ending made my jaw drop and I had to pick it up after a good 30 seconds because THAT WAS AMAZING. One of my resolutions for this year is to read more Filipino-written book, but I've been eyeing this book since last year. I caved a few months back and got it on Kindle, and now that I'm done, this book is giving me a bad hangover.
Heart of the Moon Goddess is a romantasy with elements of Filipino Mythology. My elementary school was one of the few schools that gave an in-depth class on Filipino Mythology, so when I read this retelling, it seriously touched a place in my heart. I enjoyed the writing. Joline's writing style knows when to hit. It's a poetic writing style that fits mythological retellings, that's why I think it was especially effective to me.
Honestly, I could go on and on about praising this book, but this is a wonderful experience, something that is familiar to me as a child, being retold in a beautiful, romantic way. I enjoyed this, this is an incredible read. I really like it when novellas feel so fleshed out like it's written like a full novel.
June 29, 2025
I did like this, it was just not long enough for me. I didn't feel the connection between the characters all that much and I feel like I would have if it was longer. I loved the Philippine lore and would definitely look more books up to learn about it some more. The author does have beautiful writing. I would be tempted to read book two if there ever becomes one as well.
September 22, 2025
this book is a fantasy based on the Philippine Mythological figures, the Bakunawa and Mayari. my knowledge about my country's folklore is still scarce but i enjoyed how the story flowed through. i'd give it another star if the ending did not feel a bit rushed.
October 3, 2025
i only know few philippine mythological legends but not this one! the retelling of the moon goddess was really interesting and i enjoyed the book. but the book itself isn’t perfect and i can tell its self published. however, it doesn’t mean that it isn’t great, i enjoyed it a lot!
October 8, 2024
Wow.
The sequel??! Gimme. Gimme!🤗
The sequel??! Gimme. Gimme!🤗
December 18, 2024
what a beautifully written story by a cebuana author!
March 7, 2025
Captivated me from start to finish! This is Philippine mythology retelling done masterfully.
August 13, 2025
I can’t wait for the next book in the series!! 🥹🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2025
Cute! But I wish there was more character building so that I can get invested in the characters of the story.
October 11, 2024
As a 160+ pages book, I fell in love with the characters and setting right of the bat. It was paced smoothly for my liking and was filled with the right amount of magical and emotional elements.
After reading the book, I wanted more of Baku and Luna.
I had the urge to explore more both, Isla Maharlika and Isla Brumosa. I needed to be part of their world.
AAAAHHHHHH! 🐉🌊🌕
- that's my excitement for the sequel 🫣
After reading the book, I wanted more of Baku and Luna.
I had the urge to explore more both, Isla Maharlika and Isla Brumosa. I needed to be part of their world.
AAAAHHHHHH! 🐉🌊🌕
- that's my excitement for the sequel 🫣
April 27, 2025
Just finished this book and my heart is feeling all kinds of emotions. I love how Joline’s writing is soft and lyrical. It’s like being cradled by starlight and moonglow. It reads like a whispered lullaby as it explores identity, love, and the cost of power.
That’s not to say that it didn’t have its moments of fire and pain though. It does. You’ll see it in Luna and Apolaki (whom I hated). But Baku’s tenderness balanced everything well.
If you want to read a love letter to Filipino folklore, this book is for you. It speaks of quiet strength and the tender, complicated ways we carry and show love. Bigger than its page count, this book will capture and hold your heart, making you want more.
That’s not to say that it didn’t have its moments of fire and pain though. It does. You’ll see it in Luna and Apolaki (whom I hated). But Baku’s tenderness balanced everything well.
If you want to read a love letter to Filipino folklore, this book is for you. It speaks of quiet strength and the tender, complicated ways we carry and show love. Bigger than its page count, this book will capture and hold your heart, making you want more.
November 10, 2025
“There was no need for words; we had found each other in the depths of our souls.“ - Heart of the Moon Goddess by: Joline Lim
“I gave you a part of myself—a scale. For sea serpents, shedding a scale is a vulnerability. But you, Luna, you are my greatest strength and my weakness.” -
As a huge fan of romantasy, I just had to pick up this book, especially since it dives into Philippine mythology! 🌿🇵🇭 It was such a fun and magical read that I even ended up researching some of the myths mentioned. 🧚♀️
Though I wish the story had slowed down a bit so I could connect more deeply with the world and characters, it still left me inspired. 💫 Definitely something I’d love to share with my students and include in my lessons, a beautiful way to celebrate our own mythology through fantasy! 💖
“I gave you a part of myself—a scale. For sea serpents, shedding a scale is a vulnerability. But you, Luna, you are my greatest strength and my weakness.” -
As a huge fan of romantasy, I just had to pick up this book, especially since it dives into Philippine mythology! 🌿🇵🇭 It was such a fun and magical read that I even ended up researching some of the myths mentioned. 🧚♀️
Though I wish the story had slowed down a bit so I could connect more deeply with the world and characters, it still left me inspired. 💫 Definitely something I’d love to share with my students and include in my lessons, a beautiful way to celebrate our own mythology through fantasy! 💖
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