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Lunar
Fifth novel by the author of The Shambles and Inside the Ballerina.
Book Overview
Every house has a history, and Lunar bears no exception to the rule. Its secrets have remained buried. Until now.
Recovering from her broken marriage, Fern Jones arrives at the farmhouse eager to begin her new life. But when she discovers a child’s bedroom, perfectly preserved behind an old oak door, she soon comes to terms with the fact that her future is bound to be shaped by Lunar’s past.
With local residents haunted by and equally reluctant to remember the tragedy that happened fifteen years ago, Fern tunes into the whispers and prepares herself to uncover the truth behind the place she’s trying to call home.
After all, there’s no smoke without fire.
Book Overview
Every house has a history, and Lunar bears no exception to the rule. Its secrets have remained buried. Until now.
Recovering from her broken marriage, Fern Jones arrives at the farmhouse eager to begin her new life. But when she discovers a child’s bedroom, perfectly preserved behind an old oak door, she soon comes to terms with the fact that her future is bound to be shaped by Lunar’s past.
With local residents haunted by and equally reluctant to remember the tragedy that happened fifteen years ago, Fern tunes into the whispers and prepares herself to uncover the truth behind the place she’s trying to call home.
After all, there’s no smoke without fire.
- GenresFiction
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 6, 2024
1 person is currently reading
24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 6, 2025
Lunar by Chloe Openshaw is a tragic story about guilt and its effects on so many people's lives. One event had an everlasting impact on everyone around it.
Fern is a woman seeking solitude and a fresh start while also seeking a divorce. Looking for a new beginning, she moves into an old, charming farmhouse, called Lunar. It is also in serious need of repairs. She'll discover that Lunar is full with secrets, which will pique Fern's interest in learning more about its history.
Chloe's storytelling is so vivid that it's easy to imagine and follow along. I really like how the mystery was gradually revealed. Fern's journey uncovers long-buried secrets, and her determination brings shattered lives together in unexpected and healing ways.
Overall, I like this book. This was an emotional read, so keep tissue handy.
Thank you to @LoveBooksTours, and the author @Chloe.Openshaw for the #gifted e-book. All opinions are my own.
Fern is a woman seeking solitude and a fresh start while also seeking a divorce. Looking for a new beginning, she moves into an old, charming farmhouse, called Lunar. It is also in serious need of repairs. She'll discover that Lunar is full with secrets, which will pique Fern's interest in learning more about its history.
Chloe's storytelling is so vivid that it's easy to imagine and follow along. I really like how the mystery was gradually revealed. Fern's journey uncovers long-buried secrets, and her determination brings shattered lives together in unexpected and healing ways.
Overall, I like this book. This was an emotional read, so keep tissue handy.
Thank you to @LoveBooksTours, and the author @Chloe.Openshaw for the #gifted e-book. All opinions are my own.
February 15, 2025
This was a great mix of drama, mystery and healing. It explores grief, trauma, and loss in various forms, and shows the raw emotions of anger, guilt and uncertainty.
The language was beautifully descriptive and vivid, and gives an eerie feel adding to the mysteries of Lunar.
The story merges past and present, as it explores Fern trying to start fresh and move on from her broken marriage, plus the mysteries of feeling watched in the house and strange occurrences, alongside the haunting reminders of tragedy and the events from fifteen years ago.
I enjoyed seeing Fern's inner conflicts as she tries to navigate all the unexpected changes in her life, and all the suspense from the visiting stranger.
It's an emotional and healing journey, and exposes the pain of guilt, fragility of grief, and how loss can affect friends, family and communities. It has a powerfully emotional ending that can't help but move you.
The language was beautifully descriptive and vivid, and gives an eerie feel adding to the mysteries of Lunar.
The story merges past and present, as it explores Fern trying to start fresh and move on from her broken marriage, plus the mysteries of feeling watched in the house and strange occurrences, alongside the haunting reminders of tragedy and the events from fifteen years ago.
I enjoyed seeing Fern's inner conflicts as she tries to navigate all the unexpected changes in her life, and all the suspense from the visiting stranger.
It's an emotional and healing journey, and exposes the pain of guilt, fragility of grief, and how loss can affect friends, family and communities. It has a powerfully emotional ending that can't help but move you.
January 29, 2025
This is such a beautifully written book. It explores the themes of grief and loss (not just through bereavement), guilt and finding yourself again after a tragedy.
The book is focused on Fern who is the new owner of Luna. As she comes to terms with her own life taking a very unexpected turn, she starts to think about the family who lived in the house before her. Fern wants to unravel the secrets so she can feel free to move forward with her new life.
I really liked the writing style; it evoked a sense of the landscape and brought the house to life. I also enjoyed how the story unfolded and we would get little nuggets of information to piece together about what had happened. It is not a fast-paced book, but it kept my attention throughout as the characters were interesting and I was engaged in the story.
The themes were handled well and the author did a great job of exploring how grief can have such a huge and lasting impact. It was a really sad but enjoyable read. The ending really brought everything together.
With thanks to the author and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book to review. This is my honest opinion.
The book is focused on Fern who is the new owner of Luna. As she comes to terms with her own life taking a very unexpected turn, she starts to think about the family who lived in the house before her. Fern wants to unravel the secrets so she can feel free to move forward with her new life.
I really liked the writing style; it evoked a sense of the landscape and brought the house to life. I also enjoyed how the story unfolded and we would get little nuggets of information to piece together about what had happened. It is not a fast-paced book, but it kept my attention throughout as the characters were interesting and I was engaged in the story.
The themes were handled well and the author did a great job of exploring how grief can have such a huge and lasting impact. It was a really sad but enjoyable read. The ending really brought everything together.
With thanks to the author and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book to review. This is my honest opinion.
January 18, 2025
This is such a desperately sad tale that shows us the impact of grief on a family resulting in a mix of events that doesn't just break the family but that sends ripples across the community too.
Fern's only tale is a sad one and her new venture seems a little wobbly as she has to find a new identity outside and away from the comfort she'd known for decades. You can't help but feel angry at her situation but also admiration for her determination in moving onwards and upwards; without wavering and giving in to Cooper. You can see that she's in need of comfort and her relentless quest to find out Lunar's history brings her closer to her new community. At times I thought she was bordering on annoying as I felt some things were intrusive. However, she uncovered the truth and helped people unite. I think she needed a focus to help build herself back up.
Fern's only tale is a sad one and her new venture seems a little wobbly as she has to find a new identity outside and away from the comfort she'd known for decades. You can't help but feel angry at her situation but also admiration for her determination in moving onwards and upwards; without wavering and giving in to Cooper. You can see that she's in need of comfort and her relentless quest to find out Lunar's history brings her closer to her new community. At times I thought she was bordering on annoying as I felt some things were intrusive. However, she uncovered the truth and helped people unite. I think she needed a focus to help build herself back up.
January 30, 2025
This was an absolutely heartbreaking tale about guilt and how it absolutely can destroy the lives of many.
I guessed who was sneaking into the house as soon as it happened, but I still enjoyed the story developing of why she was sneaking in.
Fern is instrumental in the healing of the house and all of the characters impacted through the events of 3rd May 2007. It's really beautiful seeing the healing process, but it also had me sobbing several times.
There's an epilogue that jumps back in time to that fateful day and explicitly lays out what we've discovered through the characters' healing. I don't think this epilogue was particularly required, and scenes were particularly upsetting.
It was incredibly gripping to read, I could barely put it down and finished it over the course of 24 hours. It is beautifully written, and I'd happily read more by this author in the future.
I guessed who was sneaking into the house as soon as it happened, but I still enjoyed the story developing of why she was sneaking in.
Fern is instrumental in the healing of the house and all of the characters impacted through the events of 3rd May 2007. It's really beautiful seeing the healing process, but it also had me sobbing several times.
There's an epilogue that jumps back in time to that fateful day and explicitly lays out what we've discovered through the characters' healing. I don't think this epilogue was particularly required, and scenes were particularly upsetting.
It was incredibly gripping to read, I could barely put it down and finished it over the course of 24 hours. It is beautifully written, and I'd happily read more by this author in the future.
January 26, 2025
This was a desperately sad story about grief and the impact it has not only on a family but also on the wider community.
Poor Fern was battling her own sadness and the grief of her marriage breakdown so I felt her need to uncover the history of Lunar and the event that happened there almost became a distraction, a need to fix something when everything she once knew had broken down around her. Uncovering the mystery behind Lunar, she reunited people and gave them a chance to finally let go of the guilt they had been carrying. All of the characters were really well developed, I could really empathise with them and truly felt their emotions as if they were my own.
The final chapters were unexpected, but I appreciated the viewpoint from that very day, I felt that it rounded the book off nicely.
Thank you to LoveBooksTours for a copy of the book and Tour opportunity.
Poor Fern was battling her own sadness and the grief of her marriage breakdown so I felt her need to uncover the history of Lunar and the event that happened there almost became a distraction, a need to fix something when everything she once knew had broken down around her. Uncovering the mystery behind Lunar, she reunited people and gave them a chance to finally let go of the guilt they had been carrying. All of the characters were really well developed, I could really empathise with them and truly felt their emotions as if they were my own.
The final chapters were unexpected, but I appreciated the viewpoint from that very day, I felt that it rounded the book off nicely.
Thank you to LoveBooksTours for a copy of the book and Tour opportunity.
February 11, 2025
What secret does your home hold? Fern Jones arrives at her new home filled with hopes and dreams for a new future after the dissolution of her marriage vows. With everything seemingly left behind, including a child’s bedroom, the old farmhouse is shrouded in mystery. Chloe Openshaw unravels a hauntingly beautiful, heartfelt tale that reads like poetry.
February 3, 2025
Lunar
Chloe Openshaw
11/06/2024
(note – this is available on KU just in case you need to know)
*Get some tissues – I never cry. This one got me. This is not the normal mystery/thriller that I read and I am thankful for that.
The story follows Fern, a woman seeking healing after a devastating divorce. In search of a fresh start, she moves into an old, charming home, determined to rebuild her life. However, it’s not just the house that captivates her—it’s the secrets hidden within its walls. As Fern settles into her new space, she becomes increasingly fascinated with the history of the house, Lunar, and the lives of those who once called it home. Among the mysteries she uncovers are the belongings of a child, Sam, whose tragic death shattered the Sloan family.
Sam's bedroom, untouched since his passing, remains eerily preserved, and Fern feels compelled to return his things to someone who might cherish them. But the Sloans have long since fallen apart. The parents, Lockie and Elizabeth, have both passed, and the whereabouts of Sam's sister, Charlotte, are unknown. Fern’s search for answers leads her to confront the echoes of grief and loss that still haunt the house, while discovering hidden connections between the past and present.
As Fern’s journey unfolds, she uncovers long-buried truths, and through her determination, she brings together fractured lives in unexpected and healing ways. Amid the sorrow, a quiet thread of hope emerges, proving that even in the darkest moments, there is always the possibility of renewal and reconciliation.
BLURB
Every house has a history, and Lunar bears no exception to the rule. Its secrets have remained buried. Until now.
Recovering from her broken marriage, Fern Jones arrives at the farmhouse eager to begin her new life. But when she discovers a child’s bedroom, perfectly preserved behind an old oak door, she soon comes to terms with the fact that her future is bound to be shaped by Lunar’s past.
With local residents haunted by and equally reluctant to remember the tragedy that happened fifteen years ago, Fern tunes into the whispers and prepares herself to uncover the truth behind the place she’s trying to call home.
After all, there’s no smoke without fire.
Chloe Openshaw
11/06/2024
(note – this is available on KU just in case you need to know)
*Get some tissues – I never cry. This one got me. This is not the normal mystery/thriller that I read and I am thankful for that.
The story follows Fern, a woman seeking healing after a devastating divorce. In search of a fresh start, she moves into an old, charming home, determined to rebuild her life. However, it’s not just the house that captivates her—it’s the secrets hidden within its walls. As Fern settles into her new space, she becomes increasingly fascinated with the history of the house, Lunar, and the lives of those who once called it home. Among the mysteries she uncovers are the belongings of a child, Sam, whose tragic death shattered the Sloan family.
Sam's bedroom, untouched since his passing, remains eerily preserved, and Fern feels compelled to return his things to someone who might cherish them. But the Sloans have long since fallen apart. The parents, Lockie and Elizabeth, have both passed, and the whereabouts of Sam's sister, Charlotte, are unknown. Fern’s search for answers leads her to confront the echoes of grief and loss that still haunt the house, while discovering hidden connections between the past and present.
As Fern’s journey unfolds, she uncovers long-buried truths, and through her determination, she brings together fractured lives in unexpected and healing ways. Amid the sorrow, a quiet thread of hope emerges, proving that even in the darkest moments, there is always the possibility of renewal and reconciliation.
BLURB
Every house has a history, and Lunar bears no exception to the rule. Its secrets have remained buried. Until now.
Recovering from her broken marriage, Fern Jones arrives at the farmhouse eager to begin her new life. But when she discovers a child’s bedroom, perfectly preserved behind an old oak door, she soon comes to terms with the fact that her future is bound to be shaped by Lunar’s past.
With local residents haunted by and equally reluctant to remember the tragedy that happened fifteen years ago, Fern tunes into the whispers and prepares herself to uncover the truth behind the place she’s trying to call home.
After all, there’s no smoke without fire.
February 15, 2025
“🎵… Every single thing to come has turned into ashes
'Cause it's all over, it's not meant to be
So I'll say words I don't believe
Goodbye, goodbye, goodbye
You were bigger than the whole sky
You were more than just a short time…“🎵
~ Bigger Than the Whole Sky by Taylor Swift
3.5 rounded to 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sometimes we all need a reminder that we are not alone, especially when we are overcome with a deep sense of grief, guilt, doubt, even shame. Sometimes, we need a reminder that in the wake of tragedy, healing can occur. Lunar is a beautifully tragic, emotional and atmospheric novel that explores the personal, familial and communal loss of a loved one, the path towards healing, and the value of friendship, all shrouded in the secrets and mystery held within the walls of Lunar.
Openshaw immediately drew me into her novel with the dichotomy of her imagery, as I was captivated by the sense of dark versus light carried from the cover onto the first page and beyond, “Illuminated by the streetlamps, he admired a bumble of birds as they bounded haphazardly from one branch to another, the early morning charm of finches feasting on a bountiful supply of red ruby berries” (pg 6).
I must admit that Lunar was not a book I could read in one sitting, as the story evoked a lot of strong emotions, especially within the last two chapters of the novel. There were also times where the some scenes were in direct conflict with each other. However, through the palpable heartache and angst of Openshaw’s characters, there was always a ray of light, a sense of connection, “an unexpected moment of serenity that ignited his heart, like a lighthouse during a storm” (pg 70).
I feel that the author wrote Lunar as a tool to show the need to let go of guilt and share one's grieving, as well as a call-to-action to step out of our comfort zone in awkward situations and reach out to check in on those we know may be grieving or in distress.
Thank you to @chloe.openshaw and @lovebookstours for my gifted digital copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
'Cause it's all over, it's not meant to be
So I'll say words I don't believe
Goodbye, goodbye, goodbye
You were bigger than the whole sky
You were more than just a short time…“🎵
~ Bigger Than the Whole Sky by Taylor Swift
3.5 rounded to 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sometimes we all need a reminder that we are not alone, especially when we are overcome with a deep sense of grief, guilt, doubt, even shame. Sometimes, we need a reminder that in the wake of tragedy, healing can occur. Lunar is a beautifully tragic, emotional and atmospheric novel that explores the personal, familial and communal loss of a loved one, the path towards healing, and the value of friendship, all shrouded in the secrets and mystery held within the walls of Lunar.
Openshaw immediately drew me into her novel with the dichotomy of her imagery, as I was captivated by the sense of dark versus light carried from the cover onto the first page and beyond, “Illuminated by the streetlamps, he admired a bumble of birds as they bounded haphazardly from one branch to another, the early morning charm of finches feasting on a bountiful supply of red ruby berries” (pg 6).
I must admit that Lunar was not a book I could read in one sitting, as the story evoked a lot of strong emotions, especially within the last two chapters of the novel. There were also times where the some scenes were in direct conflict with each other. However, through the palpable heartache and angst of Openshaw’s characters, there was always a ray of light, a sense of connection, “an unexpected moment of serenity that ignited his heart, like a lighthouse during a storm” (pg 70).
I feel that the author wrote Lunar as a tool to show the need to let go of guilt and share one's grieving, as well as a call-to-action to step out of our comfort zone in awkward situations and reach out to check in on those we know may be grieving or in distress.
Thank you to @chloe.openshaw and @lovebookstours for my gifted digital copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 29, 2025
Where do I start with this? Lunar is the story of a house, but it’s so much more. It’s a story of healing, forgiveness, and new beginnings. When Fran’s world is rocked by the ultimate betrayal, her life is turned upside down. She finds herself having to start over at the age of 50. She buys a rundown, lonely house called Lunar. . Fern knows nothing of the tragic events that turned Lunar from a lovely family home full of love into the neglected, dilapidated structure it has become. Upon the discovery of a child’s room that has been left just as it was a long time before, Fran begins an emotional, heartbreaking journey to discover more about the family who used to call Lunar home. . This is such an emotional and compelling read. The way the author weaves the story of so many lives together with the house at the centre is nothing short of spectacular. Each character has their own heartbreaking story of guilt that they’ve carried for 15 years related to the tragedy at Lunar. Fran is the catalyst that finally brings their feelings to the forefront and starts them on the road to self forgiveness. The emotions this book evokes in the reader takes you on your own rollercoaster of emotions and breaks your heart for the characters. The descriptive language the author uses perfectly depicts the setting and surroundings of the story and brings the characters’ thoughts and inner turmoil alive. This book is an incredible read and I can’t recommend it highly enough.
February 10, 2025
Everything started in this old farmhouse Lunar. A divorced woman named Fern bought Lunar, she moved in with her daughter. The house was a mess, just like her marriage. Until she found this strange kid's room intact, it's like the time just froze. Toys and cloths were scattered in the room. Fern was then trying to return the kid stuff to the previous owner, but she did not know that the kid, Sam, was died in a tragic accident and his parents were passed away too. The connection left was only Sam's sister Charlotte. Things started to get eerily when Fern revealing more and more about the history of Lunar.
The author smartly and carefully wrote this book, especially the different personalities of the characters. Even the house Lunar itself had a bright and clear character. I enjoyed much about the connection between the people in the book. The complexity and detailed were brilliant. The tension created and built to the top and it definitely made me heart beat faster when reading Lunar. The writing style was easy to follow and the length of the chapter were perfect. It was a fast read but it was an emotional read as well. The guilt and hope were fantastically merged in the storyplot.
I have to thank Love Book Tours who gave me the opportunity to read and review the book, also introduced me a new author. As a reader, nothing can please me more about reading a greatly written book.
The author smartly and carefully wrote this book, especially the different personalities of the characters. Even the house Lunar itself had a bright and clear character. I enjoyed much about the connection between the people in the book. The complexity and detailed were brilliant. The tension created and built to the top and it definitely made me heart beat faster when reading Lunar. The writing style was easy to follow and the length of the chapter were perfect. It was a fast read but it was an emotional read as well. The guilt and hope were fantastically merged in the storyplot.
I have to thank Love Book Tours who gave me the opportunity to read and review the book, also introduced me a new author. As a reader, nothing can please me more about reading a greatly written book.
January 31, 2025
Words fail me. I am utterly heartbroken after reading Lunar. What a wonderful novel. I really can't offer any higher praise!
The story was so well written and done so, so sensitively. PTSD was dealt with the utmost care and sensitivity as well. Thank you for that Chloe.
The characters in the book were all easy to like but they all had their own story to tell Fern (who was the main character if you will) in their own time. They all worked well together.
The story was so well written and the premise was interesting. The book is very descriptive and there was very little if not none at all swearing. The story flowed really well and there were no plot holes or any unanswered questions. I did figure out the plot twist with Edith though. I was quite pleased with myself!
Originally the book was sitting at a solid four stars for me. Until the 15 years earlier flashback at the end. It literally broke my heart and I cried for ages after the book finished. For me this handed the book the extra star to make it a 5 star read.
I can't recommend Lunar enough. If you have time please check it out. It was heartbreaking and a wonderful read.
The story was so well written and done so, so sensitively. PTSD was dealt with the utmost care and sensitivity as well. Thank you for that Chloe.
The characters in the book were all easy to like but they all had their own story to tell Fern (who was the main character if you will) in their own time. They all worked well together.
The story was so well written and the premise was interesting. The book is very descriptive and there was very little if not none at all swearing. The story flowed really well and there were no plot holes or any unanswered questions. I did figure out the plot twist with Edith though. I was quite pleased with myself!
Originally the book was sitting at a solid four stars for me. Until the 15 years earlier flashback at the end. It literally broke my heart and I cried for ages after the book finished. For me this handed the book the extra star to make it a 5 star read.
I can't recommend Lunar enough. If you have time please check it out. It was heartbreaking and a wonderful read.
February 15, 2025
✨🔮🌞🌕🍄🌕🌞🔮✨
REVIEW - BOOK TOUR
Lunar - Chloe Openshaw
4/5⭐️
✨✨✨✨✨✨
Wow this one made me feel so much emotion while reading. This was my first read by Chloe and I will totally be back for more. The way her writing made me be able to picture it all was amazing. Fern is our FMC looking for a fresh start while seeking for a divorce. While along the way Fern uncovers deep secrets. It will be very impacting along the ride. Overall it was a great read but it’s not a fast paced one. Totally recommend.
📚📚📚
If you like to read:
- One tragic accident
- A lifetime of grief
- The hope of new beginnings
… You should definitely check this out
📚📚📚
Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words. #AD
@lovebookstours @
✨what’s a favorite movie of yours?
#arc #giftedcopy #books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok
REVIEW - BOOK TOUR
Lunar - Chloe Openshaw
4/5⭐️
✨✨✨✨✨✨
Wow this one made me feel so much emotion while reading. This was my first read by Chloe and I will totally be back for more. The way her writing made me be able to picture it all was amazing. Fern is our FMC looking for a fresh start while seeking for a divorce. While along the way Fern uncovers deep secrets. It will be very impacting along the ride. Overall it was a great read but it’s not a fast paced one. Totally recommend.
📚📚📚
If you like to read:
- One tragic accident
- A lifetime of grief
- The hope of new beginnings
… You should definitely check this out
📚📚📚
Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words. #AD
@lovebookstours @
✨what’s a favorite movie of yours?
#arc #giftedcopy #books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok
January 30, 2025
🌙Book Review: Lunar by Chloe Openshaw🌙
Chloe Openshaw’s Lunar is a beautifully written exploration of grief and how it ripples through families and entire communities. From the very beginning, Openshaw sets the tone with the haunting line:
“The invisible seal that had become wrapped around Lunar had been broken, exposing its hidden secrets.”
The story follows Fern, a woman seeking solace after a broken marriage. Moving into a new home, she shows remarkable strength as she begins to rebuild her life. In her search for comfort, Fern becomes deeply immersed in uncovering the history of Lunar and the lives of those who once inhabited its walls. She must return the child’s belongings to a family member.
The Sloan family fell apart after the death of the young son named Sam. The child’s bedroom in the home was left in perfect condition. The parents Lockie and Elizabeth have passed away, so who can she give the items too. Where is the sister Charlotte?
Through her journey, Fern discovers hidden truths and brings people together in unexpected ways. The heartfelt sadness woven throughout the story is palpable, but there’s also a quiet hope that lingers.
Grab your tissues, because this one touches your core!
Chloe Openshaw’s Lunar is a beautifully written exploration of grief and how it ripples through families and entire communities. From the very beginning, Openshaw sets the tone with the haunting line:
“The invisible seal that had become wrapped around Lunar had been broken, exposing its hidden secrets.”
The story follows Fern, a woman seeking solace after a broken marriage. Moving into a new home, she shows remarkable strength as she begins to rebuild her life. In her search for comfort, Fern becomes deeply immersed in uncovering the history of Lunar and the lives of those who once inhabited its walls. She must return the child’s belongings to a family member.
The Sloan family fell apart after the death of the young son named Sam. The child’s bedroom in the home was left in perfect condition. The parents Lockie and Elizabeth have passed away, so who can she give the items too. Where is the sister Charlotte?
Through her journey, Fern discovers hidden truths and brings people together in unexpected ways. The heartfelt sadness woven throughout the story is palpable, but there’s also a quiet hope that lingers.
Grab your tissues, because this one touches your core!
January 29, 2025
This is a very interesting book. It isn't really just a book about a house and finding a way to move on and make it home. It is about changing, growing, recovering, finding your whole community and bonding and sometimes finding the skeletons who may be in or hiding near the closet.
This book ends up being a unique blend of almost creepy mystery and found family/community fiction, after she tries to leave the Cooper situation and make home at Lunar. I found the blend of the two genres very interesting. The way the author wrote it worked really well, and I liked how it flowed and still maintain a good amount of detail.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters and piece all the information together, trying to figure out exactly what had happened and how it had affected everyone. Fern was a bit too much at points, but I am just a person who doesn't like pushy people, so that is likely why. She still was a good and kind person, just a bit over the top. The conclusion of the book is very interesting and I found the overall book really good.
This book ends up being a unique blend of almost creepy mystery and found family/community fiction, after she tries to leave the Cooper situation and make home at Lunar. I found the blend of the two genres very interesting. The way the author wrote it worked really well, and I liked how it flowed and still maintain a good amount of detail.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters and piece all the information together, trying to figure out exactly what had happened and how it had affected everyone. Fern was a bit too much at points, but I am just a person who doesn't like pushy people, so that is likely why. She still was a good and kind person, just a bit over the top. The conclusion of the book is very interesting and I found the overall book really good.
February 1, 2025
The beauty of the cover is what drew me in, to know there was some kind of mystery and history behind the cover is what kept me engaged.
Fern is beat down; her marriage is ending, her daughter is going to college in the fall, the house she just bought she didn't get a great look at it and it needs more repairs then she was expecting. It also has a history that she wants to get to know, but everyone she talks to will only give her a piece of. With the feeling that she is constantly upsetting people of the town that she really wants to know and be friendly with and feeling like a let down in her own life this book takes you on a journey that life is about growing, changing, accepting, community and letting go.
I'm rounding up from 3.75, it wasn't a favorite of mine and I felt like there could have been more to the story where parts just seemed recycled from chapter to chapter, also the way it was written sometimes threw me off. It would seem to switch characters POV from line to line.
Fern is beat down; her marriage is ending, her daughter is going to college in the fall, the house she just bought she didn't get a great look at it and it needs more repairs then she was expecting. It also has a history that she wants to get to know, but everyone she talks to will only give her a piece of. With the feeling that she is constantly upsetting people of the town that she really wants to know and be friendly with and feeling like a let down in her own life this book takes you on a journey that life is about growing, changing, accepting, community and letting go.
I'm rounding up from 3.75, it wasn't a favorite of mine and I felt like there could have been more to the story where parts just seemed recycled from chapter to chapter, also the way it was written sometimes threw me off. It would seem to switch characters POV from line to line.
February 2, 2025
First of all, what a beautiful cover this book has. As soon as I saw it I could tell that the house had secrets, and I needed to know what they were.
This was a real mysterious page turner. Fern has recently separated from her husband, and buys the beautiful, but run down Lunar house. Chloe writes with such description that you can really clearly see everything. So often an author can take this too far, and the descriptions become boring, but not here, it was the perfect amount. As well as being in desperate need of modernisation, Lunar has secrets. Mainly the perfectly preserved bedroom of a young child. Everyone Fern meets seems to know what happened, or be connected in some way, but no one will talk about it.
The reader knows what happens, but we don't know why, or how and I loved that being revealed slowly. I felt like uncovering the secrets of Lunar really helped Fern grow and start to flourish as a newly single woman, almost as if they were on parallel journeys.
This was a fantastic mystery book, and I'll definitely be looking out for more by this author.
This was a real mysterious page turner. Fern has recently separated from her husband, and buys the beautiful, but run down Lunar house. Chloe writes with such description that you can really clearly see everything. So often an author can take this too far, and the descriptions become boring, but not here, it was the perfect amount. As well as being in desperate need of modernisation, Lunar has secrets. Mainly the perfectly preserved bedroom of a young child. Everyone Fern meets seems to know what happened, or be connected in some way, but no one will talk about it.
The reader knows what happens, but we don't know why, or how and I loved that being revealed slowly. I felt like uncovering the secrets of Lunar really helped Fern grow and start to flourish as a newly single woman, almost as if they were on parallel journeys.
This was a fantastic mystery book, and I'll definitely be looking out for more by this author.
February 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. This is my second book by Chloe and wow, she writes so direct, emotional books. I was drawn to this book for many reasons, one of them being that I am utterly obsessed with the moon 🌙 and from the cover to the title, I knew this book was for me.
It was quite mysterious and bittersweet. I did like Fern, she was moving to a quaint cottage after the breakdown of her marriage. Yet, not all is as it seems. The writing throughout was beautiful and descriptive.
Guilt is such a heavy topic. One that has a bit of stigma around yet, this was written with care, consideration and it was beautiful.
The epilogue for me, was hard hitting. I don’t think it was required yet it also made sense. However, was also quite vivid and upsetting.
This was a great read for me and Chloe Openshaw always surprises me with thinking I’m going to read something and then throwing in twists and taking it down a more emotional, heartbreaking route.
Thanks for having me on your @lovebooktours with you as always and to @chloe.openshaw for another great read.
It was quite mysterious and bittersweet. I did like Fern, she was moving to a quaint cottage after the breakdown of her marriage. Yet, not all is as it seems. The writing throughout was beautiful and descriptive.
Guilt is such a heavy topic. One that has a bit of stigma around yet, this was written with care, consideration and it was beautiful.
The epilogue for me, was hard hitting. I don’t think it was required yet it also made sense. However, was also quite vivid and upsetting.
This was a great read for me and Chloe Openshaw always surprises me with thinking I’m going to read something and then throwing in twists and taking it down a more emotional, heartbreaking route.
Thanks for having me on your @lovebooktours with you as always and to @chloe.openshaw for another great read.
February 1, 2025
Rating: 4.5/5
I loved how descriptive Author Chloe Openshaw’s writing is, creating imagery of the town, the house, and all the story's surroundings. Readers are introduced to Fern, devasted by the breakup of her marriage and ready to start a new one elsewhere. The house she moves into holds secrets. The more time she spends there, mysterious things happen, and she begins to uncover the house's history.
I liked how the house and the town represented an opportunity to grieve, work through trauma, heal, and forgive. Each person had a connection with the past. Fern, in particular, just happened to be the one who bought the house. But in helping others, in turn, I believe she helped herself. Some moments were quite emotional, which I hadn’t expected, as was the ending. But I did enjoy the story overall.
Thank you to Love Book Tours and Author Chloe Openshaw for the gifted Reader Copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved how descriptive Author Chloe Openshaw’s writing is, creating imagery of the town, the house, and all the story's surroundings. Readers are introduced to Fern, devasted by the breakup of her marriage and ready to start a new one elsewhere. The house she moves into holds secrets. The more time she spends there, mysterious things happen, and she begins to uncover the house's history.
I liked how the house and the town represented an opportunity to grieve, work through trauma, heal, and forgive. Each person had a connection with the past. Fern, in particular, just happened to be the one who bought the house. But in helping others, in turn, I believe she helped herself. Some moments were quite emotional, which I hadn’t expected, as was the ending. But I did enjoy the story overall.
Thank you to Love Book Tours and Author Chloe Openshaw for the gifted Reader Copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 2, 2025
When you move into a new house you want to make your mark and make it your own space. But what if there are still remnants of the previous owner left behind. What if a previous resident has trouble letting go or moving on?
Lunar is a juxtaposition between the previous and the current, new owner. It’s a very interesting story that shows the similarities and differences between two people and their approach to loneliness and how they choose to deal with their situation that life has put them in. There are also interesting parallels between other side characters’ history or backstory that mimic each other.
The story is written in a flowing and emotional way that shows, not just describes, the landscape and surrounding area. Allowing the reader to fully immerse themselves in the world and perspective of Fern Jones as she learns to navigate her new life and home alongside her new neighbours.
Lunar is a juxtaposition between the previous and the current, new owner. It’s a very interesting story that shows the similarities and differences between two people and their approach to loneliness and how they choose to deal with their situation that life has put them in. There are also interesting parallels between other side characters’ history or backstory that mimic each other.
The story is written in a flowing and emotional way that shows, not just describes, the landscape and surrounding area. Allowing the reader to fully immerse themselves in the world and perspective of Fern Jones as she learns to navigate her new life and home alongside her new neighbours.
February 5, 2025
I want to thank Love Books Tour and Chloe Openshaw for giving me the arc. However, my opinions are my own.
Rarely does a book stay with me after I'm done, but Lunar stayed with me for days after finishing it. It offers a poignant exploration of grief and its far-reaching effects.
Fern is at a new juncture: her marriage ended, and her daughter will start college in the fall. She buys Lunar House and becomes intrigued by its history.
The family that previously lived in the house suffered an unimaginable loss that not only shattered them but impacted the entire community. As Fern learns more, she starts healing herself and helps mend the broken pieces of that family and her new community.
The prose in this novel is beautiful, filled with nuance and care for the heavy themes of grief, guilt, and loss. The author uses clear, vivid imagery that intensifies the emotions experienced while reading. This novel is somber yet illustrates how healing new beginnings are.
Rarely does a book stay with me after I'm done, but Lunar stayed with me for days after finishing it. It offers a poignant exploration of grief and its far-reaching effects.
Fern is at a new juncture: her marriage ended, and her daughter will start college in the fall. She buys Lunar House and becomes intrigued by its history.
The family that previously lived in the house suffered an unimaginable loss that not only shattered them but impacted the entire community. As Fern learns more, she starts healing herself and helps mend the broken pieces of that family and her new community.
The prose in this novel is beautiful, filled with nuance and care for the heavy themes of grief, guilt, and loss. The author uses clear, vivid imagery that intensifies the emotions experienced while reading. This novel is somber yet illustrates how healing new beginnings are.
February 14, 2025
An emotional story about family, loss, and new beginnings.
After leaving her husband, Fern decides to buy a rundown house called Lunar in a picturesque town only to discover that Lunar has a mysterious past that everyone in the town refuses to talk about. Now Fern is determined to learn more about the house and the family who used to live there.
Beautifully written, vividly detailed, and incredibly atmospheric, this book pulls you in immediately and has you feeling every single emotion. The story is slow paced but flows well and keeps you engaged the entire time.
Each of the characters are unique and complex. I enjoyed learning about each of them and their history with Lunar.
While the book does cover some heavy themes, such as loss, grief, and guilt, the author did an excellent job of handling them with care while also exploring the effects they can have.
I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more books by Chloe Openshaw in the future.
After leaving her husband, Fern decides to buy a rundown house called Lunar in a picturesque town only to discover that Lunar has a mysterious past that everyone in the town refuses to talk about. Now Fern is determined to learn more about the house and the family who used to live there.
Beautifully written, vividly detailed, and incredibly atmospheric, this book pulls you in immediately and has you feeling every single emotion. The story is slow paced but flows well and keeps you engaged the entire time.
Each of the characters are unique and complex. I enjoyed learning about each of them and their history with Lunar.
While the book does cover some heavy themes, such as loss, grief, and guilt, the author did an excellent job of handling them with care while also exploring the effects they can have.
I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more books by Chloe Openshaw in the future.
January 26, 2025
This book is both amazing and heartbreaking! The descriptions, the backstories, the heartache, the friendships to name a few!
I've loved reading Chloe's writing, you can feel the characters feelings, their guilt for how things played out, the feeling of wanting a new start but also being torn between dealing with their grief and wanting to do what's best for everyone, including themselves.
Lunar sounds like an amazing place, a fab stargazing place when the skies are clear but the land also holds a lot of heartache.
When Fern moves in, she wonders why everyone is a bit strange when she mentions which house she's just moved to. Little does she know, the emotion that house on the hill harbours.
A tragic accident, families torn apart, friendships lost, memories treasured but also hold a lot of emotion. Well worth a read!
I've loved reading Chloe's writing, you can feel the characters feelings, their guilt for how things played out, the feeling of wanting a new start but also being torn between dealing with their grief and wanting to do what's best for everyone, including themselves.
Lunar sounds like an amazing place, a fab stargazing place when the skies are clear but the land also holds a lot of heartache.
When Fern moves in, she wonders why everyone is a bit strange when she mentions which house she's just moved to. Little does she know, the emotion that house on the hill harbours.
A tragic accident, families torn apart, friendships lost, memories treasured but also hold a lot of emotion. Well worth a read!
February 10, 2025
If I could leave a one word review it would be wow! And that is just from the writing style.
Chloe's descriptions are so in-depth that you can really visualise the scenes perfectly in your mind.
When I first started reading Lunar I wasn't sure if I would enjoy it because it's not the type of story I usually like to read. I'm glad I stuck with it because the storyline is actually great.
The book is set in a farmhouse named Lunar.
After recently splitting from her husband Cooper, Fern buys Lunar without properly viewing the house. Fern and her daughter Jessie are shocked at how bad the house really is after being neglected by the previous owner for many years. They find 1 room that isn't as bad as the rest of the house. A child's bedroom that looks like it had been abandoned in the middle of being played in, with a train set on the floor, clothes set out and cuddly toys in the bed.
Fern wants to give some of the belongings back to the family of the previous occupants. As she sets out to try to find them she looks into Lunar’s history and then things start to get strange.
People are reluctant to talk about Lunar, so she struggles to find out about who lived there and what had happened to the child whose room was left abandoned.
The sad truth is revealed as Fern digs deeper.
The Sloan family had broken down after the death of Lockie and Elizabeth's young son Sam.
Sam had tragically died in a fire inside the barn at the farmhouse.
Sam's sister Charlotte was sent away to live with her Aunt, then Elizabeth apparently died and Lockie became a recluse, refusing to see or speak to anyone.
Fern then set out to try and find Charlotte to pass on her brother's belongings.
Fern has suspicions that someone has been in her house, so sets up some security cameras.
All is revealed when watching the camera footage back. She is shocked when she finds out that Charlotte was closer than she knew and someone she's already met!
I really enjoyed reading Lunar. The book was so mysterious and emotional. It had me in tears at 1 point. It does have a happy ending though.
Chloe's descriptions are so in-depth that you can really visualise the scenes perfectly in your mind.
When I first started reading Lunar I wasn't sure if I would enjoy it because it's not the type of story I usually like to read. I'm glad I stuck with it because the storyline is actually great.
The book is set in a farmhouse named Lunar.
After recently splitting from her husband Cooper, Fern buys Lunar without properly viewing the house. Fern and her daughter Jessie are shocked at how bad the house really is after being neglected by the previous owner for many years. They find 1 room that isn't as bad as the rest of the house. A child's bedroom that looks like it had been abandoned in the middle of being played in, with a train set on the floor, clothes set out and cuddly toys in the bed.
Fern wants to give some of the belongings back to the family of the previous occupants. As she sets out to try to find them she looks into Lunar’s history and then things start to get strange.
People are reluctant to talk about Lunar, so she struggles to find out about who lived there and what had happened to the child whose room was left abandoned.
The sad truth is revealed as Fern digs deeper.
The Sloan family had broken down after the death of Lockie and Elizabeth's young son Sam.
Sam had tragically died in a fire inside the barn at the farmhouse.
Sam's sister Charlotte was sent away to live with her Aunt, then Elizabeth apparently died and Lockie became a recluse, refusing to see or speak to anyone.
Fern then set out to try and find Charlotte to pass on her brother's belongings.
Fern has suspicions that someone has been in her house, so sets up some security cameras.
All is revealed when watching the camera footage back. She is shocked when she finds out that Charlotte was closer than she knew and someone she's already met!
I really enjoyed reading Lunar. The book was so mysterious and emotional. It had me in tears at 1 point. It does have a happy ending though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2025
Lunar is a house with a past. Lunar is purchased by a woman going through a divorce and wanting an escape. The setting for the house is beautiful in wide open spaces . After moving in Fern notices things about the house. First that it is major need of updating and second that something sad is ties to the house. A child’s bedroom that has not been touched in years. The people of the village are reluctant to talk about the house but Fern is persistent and much of the book is her journey to find out the truth about the house.
This is a book that defies genres. It is a mystery, contemporary fiction, supernatural, and more wrapped in one delightful read. The author skillfully unravels the storyline at a good pace and one that keeps you wanting to read to find out more. If you like unraveling the past and changing the way people think about a situation, you will enjoy this book!
This is a book that defies genres. It is a mystery, contemporary fiction, supernatural, and more wrapped in one delightful read. The author skillfully unravels the storyline at a good pace and one that keeps you wanting to read to find out more. If you like unraveling the past and changing the way people think about a situation, you will enjoy this book!
February 6, 2025
This book absolutely drew me in from the beginning and kept me in its clutches until I finished, which didn't take long because I couldn't put it down.
The book was well written, it was actually stunningly written with a vividly descriptive narrative and rich imagery woven through it that made me feel like I could close my eyes and be right there with the characters. There were parts of this book that truly made my heart break in two and I just wanted to jump in and give them a hug.
The characters are well developed and I found myself drawn to them really quickly, even Fern, who I wasn't entirely sure of at first, there was just something scratching my brain about her.
This is my first book by this author but it definitely won't be my last, I loved it.
The book was well written, it was actually stunningly written with a vividly descriptive narrative and rich imagery woven through it that made me feel like I could close my eyes and be right there with the characters. There were parts of this book that truly made my heart break in two and I just wanted to jump in and give them a hug.
The characters are well developed and I found myself drawn to them really quickly, even Fern, who I wasn't entirely sure of at first, there was just something scratching my brain about her.
This is my first book by this author but it definitely won't be my last, I loved it.
February 7, 2025
I loved this book so much! Fern buys a rundown cottage, Lunar, without knowing it's history. She just wants a new start after leaving her cheating husband, but feels like she's bitten off more than she can chew.
The cottage has a dark history that nobody in the village wants to talk about. The previous resident was an elderly man who died alone, but there is a child's bedroom perfectly preserved upstairs. Fern feels like someone is watching the cottage.
This was a beautifully written book and very atmospheric. I was creeped out by the cottage, but also fell in love with it. The suspense builds throughout the story as the secrets are gradually revealed. It was quite an emotional read too.
The cottage has a dark history that nobody in the village wants to talk about. The previous resident was an elderly man who died alone, but there is a child's bedroom perfectly preserved upstairs. Fern feels like someone is watching the cottage.
This was a beautifully written book and very atmospheric. I was creeped out by the cottage, but also fell in love with it. The suspense builds throughout the story as the secrets are gradually revealed. It was quite an emotional read too.
February 16, 2025
Fern Jones moves to a house in the Cotswolds called Lunar following the break down of her marriage. The belongings of the previous owners remain in the property and Fern feels she should try and uncover who lived there and why they have been left. She discovers a tragic event linked to the house from 15 years ago.
I absolutely loved this book and the writing style of Chloe Openshaw. She describes Lunar and its surrounding landscape beautifully. The characters were real and their stories raw. I felt for all of them in different ways and at different times throughout the book. The author demonstrated great sensitivity and poignancy around the difficult and painful issue of grief. I would highly recommend this book.
I absolutely loved this book and the writing style of Chloe Openshaw. She describes Lunar and its surrounding landscape beautifully. The characters were real and their stories raw. I felt for all of them in different ways and at different times throughout the book. The author demonstrated great sensitivity and poignancy around the difficult and painful issue of grief. I would highly recommend this book.
March 10, 2025
Ferns relationship has broken down and she’s just bought a house named Lunar which holds a great deal of history which she’s about to unravel.
This was written at such a perfect pace, uncovering details gradually, I don’t really know what I expected but I felt content at the end of this read.
The cover of the book is absolutely beautiful and I really enjoyed reading it. Once I read the blurb I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Lunar and I was not disappointed.
I wasn’t too keen on Fern to start with and questioned some of her choices but I soon warmed to her and could see her intentions behind her actions.
I would like to go back and read this again and really focus on some of the parts again after knowing what I know now.
This was written at such a perfect pace, uncovering details gradually, I don’t really know what I expected but I felt content at the end of this read.
The cover of the book is absolutely beautiful and I really enjoyed reading it. Once I read the blurb I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Lunar and I was not disappointed.
I wasn’t too keen on Fern to start with and questioned some of her choices but I soon warmed to her and could see her intentions behind her actions.
I would like to go back and read this again and really focus on some of the parts again after knowing what I know now.
February 2, 2025
I was hooked by this book within the first chapter, it really set the tone well for the story. Our main character, Fern, has recently split from her husband and she is learning to navigate life on her own. Forcing herself to step out of her comfort zone and put herself first for a change. She wants to start afresh and buying Lunar is the first step to creating a better life for herself. There’s a lot of work to do at Lunar as the house seems to have been completely neglected over the years despite an elderly man living there until very recently. In exploring the house further Fern and her daughter Jessie discover a little boys room that looks completely untouched. Wondering why this room in particular seems to be perfectly reserved Fern makes it her mission to find out what happened here. But could delving into the past open wounds to deep to overcome?
I absolutely loved the writing of this extremely emotive story. The introduction of each character and their relevance to the story played out so seamlessly. As the story unfolds you realise the house holds memories for so many people in the small town. These memories are a mixture of good and utterly heartbreaking and I found the story very emotional at times. I was 100% invested in Ferns plight to solve the mystery of Lunar and really felt like I was living it alongside her.
I absolutely loved the writing of this extremely emotive story. The introduction of each character and their relevance to the story played out so seamlessly. As the story unfolds you realise the house holds memories for so many people in the small town. These memories are a mixture of good and utterly heartbreaking and I found the story very emotional at times. I was 100% invested in Ferns plight to solve the mystery of Lunar and really felt like I was living it alongside her.
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