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Blood Moon Bride
Forced into marriage for her valley's survival, Rehya must submit or rebel against a ruthless system? A brilliant, fierce and compelling YA fantasy perfect for fans of The Prison Healer and Children of Blood and Bone, from the acclaimed, award-winning author of Living on Hope Street.
OUR RESISTANCE IS POWER
Ma's tears wet my neck as I backed into our hut. I slumped into Pa's chair. His smell curled around me. I breathed him in as my tears fell and anger bubbled under my skin. I was to be a Blood Moon Bride.
Rehya is a hunter with uncanny magical abilities – and magic has long been outlawed in Mennama Valley.
Every winter, on the night of the Blood Moon, young women enter forced marriages for the valley's advancement and prosperity. But this year Governor Kyra has decreed that girls of just fifteen must become Blood Moon Brides, making Rehya eligible.
When her Pa dies, Rehya's plans of escape evaporate and she is paraded in front of suitors on Show Day. And when she is chosen to be a bride, she lashes out.
As punishment, she is sent to the Nest. There Rehya must should she submit to the life of a Blood Moon Bride, or rebel – and risk everything to fight for justice?
A powerful and fierce YA fantasy novel by the award-winning author of Living on Hope Street.
'A richly realised and provocative fantasy, Blood Moon Bride shows that even in the midst of great hardship, magic can find a way.' - C.S. Pacat, New York Times Bestselling author of DARK RISE
'Richly folkloric and tragically timely, Blood Moon Bride is a visceral tale of fierce women and bright, raging hope, drenched with blood and the light of stars.' - Lili Wilkinson, author of A HUNGER OF THORNS and DEEP IS THE FEN
'I read Blood Moon Bride in one breathless sitting. The story and writing were compelling. I trembled in dread with Rehya, I ran and fought with her. Her struggle was mine and so was her triumph.' - Isobelle Carmody, author of THE OBERNEWTYN CHRONICLES and COMES THE NIGHT
OUR RESISTANCE IS POWER
Ma's tears wet my neck as I backed into our hut. I slumped into Pa's chair. His smell curled around me. I breathed him in as my tears fell and anger bubbled under my skin. I was to be a Blood Moon Bride.
Rehya is a hunter with uncanny magical abilities – and magic has long been outlawed in Mennama Valley.
Every winter, on the night of the Blood Moon, young women enter forced marriages for the valley's advancement and prosperity. But this year Governor Kyra has decreed that girls of just fifteen must become Blood Moon Brides, making Rehya eligible.
When her Pa dies, Rehya's plans of escape evaporate and she is paraded in front of suitors on Show Day. And when she is chosen to be a bride, she lashes out.
As punishment, she is sent to the Nest. There Rehya must should she submit to the life of a Blood Moon Bride, or rebel – and risk everything to fight for justice?
A powerful and fierce YA fantasy novel by the award-winning author of Living on Hope Street.
'A richly realised and provocative fantasy, Blood Moon Bride shows that even in the midst of great hardship, magic can find a way.' - C.S. Pacat, New York Times Bestselling author of DARK RISE
'Richly folkloric and tragically timely, Blood Moon Bride is a visceral tale of fierce women and bright, raging hope, drenched with blood and the light of stars.' - Lili Wilkinson, author of A HUNGER OF THORNS and DEEP IS THE FEN
'I read Blood Moon Bride in one breathless sitting. The story and writing were compelling. I trembled in dread with Rehya, I ran and fought with her. Her struggle was mine and so was her triumph.' - Isobelle Carmody, author of THE OBERNEWTYN CHRONICLES and COMES THE NIGHT
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
377 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2025
9 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
About the author
Demet Divaroren
8 books41 followersDemet Divaroren was born in her mother’s childhood home in Adana, Turkey. She migrated to Australia with her family when she was six months old and grew up on the outskirts of Melbourne.
Her debut novel Living on Hope Street won the 2018 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award’s Prize for Writing for Young Adults and was shortlisted in the 2018 Prime Minister’s Literary Award for Young Adult fiction. Demet is the co-editor of CBCA shortlisted anthology Growing Up Muslim in Australia (A&U) that provides different snapshots of Muslim life, dispelling myths and labels and celebrating diversity.
Blood Moon Bride is her second novel.
Her debut novel Living on Hope Street won the 2018 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award’s Prize for Writing for Young Adults and was shortlisted in the 2018 Prime Minister’s Literary Award for Young Adult fiction. Demet is the co-editor of CBCA shortlisted anthology Growing Up Muslim in Australia (A&U) that provides different snapshots of Muslim life, dispelling myths and labels and celebrating diversity.
Blood Moon Bride is her second novel.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 28, 2025
"Fear, Rehya, is courage in hiding.'
"Not everyone is worth saving.
Maybe not. But justice was worth fighting for."
BLOOD MOON BRIDE is a powerful YA fantasy about fierce women, magic and oppression. It is about the fight for justice and liberation from gender based and political oppression.
In this book, we are introduced to a world where girls are sold off in marriage to produce children that grow up to be another Blood Moon Bride or soldiers to be sacrificed in war. Rehya is our main character and she lives in a village under the rule of Governer Kyra, who not only forces girls into marriage but was responsible for the eradication of an entire race of people - the Alkemmi or as he refers to them, Magic Wielders.
This story of oppression and inequality draws many parallels with reality, drawing to mind the Stolen Generation and the fates of many young girls in other countries. The writing does not shy away from the harsh realities faced by the people in the story, it also weaves strong cultural ideals showing how culture persists, no matter how fragmented or how hard people in power try to stamp it out.
Along with these themes of culture and oppression, we get strong tones of feminism through powerful and bold characters who won't bend to the will of others.
I thought the themes and message of this book are extremely important and definitely reflected in the writing. In terms the plot and story itself, I enjoyed the plot twists and the characters the most.
The second half of the book really made me love this book. The adventure, action and suspense made me fly through the last few chapters. I couldn't really see where the plot was headed until the big revelation at the end, then everything came together in such a satisfying, yet unpredictable way.
The characters were also such a highlight for me, I love a good found family and it would've been to get more insight into them. But despite not having much time in the spotlight, they were all developed really well and as the story progressed you could clearly see how each character grew. Also the magic system was very interesting! I love magic that draws from nature and it was even better because the powers were so unique, I would love to know what other kinds of magic the Alkemmi have!
Probably the only negative for me was the pacing, I was so intrigued by the concept and really enjoyed the second half of the book. But the first half was just a bit too slow; not much was happening and while it was essential for the worldbuilding and backstory, I would've loved a bit more action like what was included in the end of the book. That being said, it's entirely my personal preference for reading.
TL;DR:
BLOOD MOON BRIDE is a powerful YA fantasy about fierce women, magic and oppression. It is about the fight for justice and liberation from gender based and political oppression.
This story draws many parallels with reality, drawing to mind the Stolen Generation and the harsh reality of many young girls in other countries.
It also weaves hope and strong cultural ideals, showing how culture persists, no matter how fragmented it remains or how hard people in power try to stamp it out.
With important messages about feminism and oppression, this book is filled with character development and surprises.
It will take you on Reyha's adventure, following her as she prepares to be sold to a man, as she faces a facility and harsh Assessor meant to "fix" and subdue her and finally, as she decides whether to submit to the will of another or uncover the corruption and try to free her people.
"Not everyone is worth saving.
Maybe not. But justice was worth fighting for."
BLOOD MOON BRIDE is a powerful YA fantasy about fierce women, magic and oppression. It is about the fight for justice and liberation from gender based and political oppression.
In this book, we are introduced to a world where girls are sold off in marriage to produce children that grow up to be another Blood Moon Bride or soldiers to be sacrificed in war. Rehya is our main character and she lives in a village under the rule of Governer Kyra, who not only forces girls into marriage but was responsible for the eradication of an entire race of people - the Alkemmi or as he refers to them, Magic Wielders.
This story of oppression and inequality draws many parallels with reality, drawing to mind the Stolen Generation and the fates of many young girls in other countries. The writing does not shy away from the harsh realities faced by the people in the story, it also weaves strong cultural ideals showing how culture persists, no matter how fragmented or how hard people in power try to stamp it out.
Along with these themes of culture and oppression, we get strong tones of feminism through powerful and bold characters who won't bend to the will of others.
I thought the themes and message of this book are extremely important and definitely reflected in the writing. In terms the plot and story itself, I enjoyed the plot twists and the characters the most.
The second half of the book really made me love this book. The adventure, action and suspense made me fly through the last few chapters. I couldn't really see where the plot was headed until the big revelation at the end, then everything came together in such a satisfying, yet unpredictable way.
The characters were also such a highlight for me, I love a good found family and it would've been to get more insight into them. But despite not having much time in the spotlight, they were all developed really well and as the story progressed you could clearly see how each character grew. Also the magic system was very interesting! I love magic that draws from nature and it was even better because the powers were so unique, I would love to know what other kinds of magic the Alkemmi have!
Probably the only negative for me was the pacing, I was so intrigued by the concept and really enjoyed the second half of the book. But the first half was just a bit too slow; not much was happening and while it was essential for the worldbuilding and backstory, I would've loved a bit more action like what was included in the end of the book. That being said, it's entirely my personal preference for reading.
TL;DR:
BLOOD MOON BRIDE is a powerful YA fantasy about fierce women, magic and oppression. It is about the fight for justice and liberation from gender based and political oppression.
This story draws many parallels with reality, drawing to mind the Stolen Generation and the harsh reality of many young girls in other countries.
It also weaves hope and strong cultural ideals, showing how culture persists, no matter how fragmented it remains or how hard people in power try to stamp it out.
With important messages about feminism and oppression, this book is filled with character development and surprises.
It will take you on Reyha's adventure, following her as she prepares to be sold to a man, as she faces a facility and harsh Assessor meant to "fix" and subdue her and finally, as she decides whether to submit to the will of another or uncover the corruption and try to free her people.
February 12, 2025
╰┈➤ ★★★☆☆
“𝘞𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘰 resist, 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘰𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘵…”
“…𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤 𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦”
|| Themes ||
🌙 Strong Female Character
🔮 Magic
⚔️ War & Oppression
🌙 Rebellion
🔮 Feminism & Equality
⚔️ Power
——
I came this close to DNF this book. I couldn’t get into it (at first), but I wanted to finish it so I could give an honest review. Now that I have finished it, please keep in mind that these are my own opinions about this book, don’t take my dislike for this book affect your own thoughts about this book.
So, firstly, thank you NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the ARC, in exchange for an honest review.
When I read the summary and saw the cover, that is what drew me to wanting to read this, however, I did not enjoy this as much as I had hoped.
The first 60% of this book, I felt like I was lost, confused and the book dragged on forever. But once I got past that 60% the rest of the story felt so much easier to understand and a lot better to read. I guess the stuff before was the anticipation, a bit slow but it all fell into place.
For me personally, I think this book might need to come with some small TWs only because it rubbed me the wrong way with some of the content in the story. For starters, the whole idea of eradicating a whole race of magic wielders and the mention of slaves, felt a little too close to home with First Nations people (again imo, not trying to make it sound political or whatever). It wasn’t overly graphic, just some of the stuff made it sound a little too real. But the approach with the race being magic wielders made it interesting, especially with the lead up to the end, everything made so much sense and it was executed very well.
Despite that small issue I had, I found the last lot of the story intriguing. The twists along the way and near the end definitely made it better. Which is why I decided to give the story 3 stars rather than my original thought of 2 out of 5.
The characters were very well developed and I found that with each mystery/lie uncovered, there was character development. I didn’t have any major issues with the characters (which is good cause sometimes you get some that just really piss you off) just the story itself was a bit slow.
Given that the FMC is only 16, her characteristics were strong minded, has a strong sense of justice and she would not bend for no man, I loved that about her. She would not tolerate BS, especially the torture she goes through. The side characters were also lovely. One of the village ladies reminded me of your usual gossiping aunties 🤣
——
Idk if there was supposed to be a cliffhanger or not, but it had a good ending but at the same time the ending ending felt flat. Like someone yelled something in the crowd and then one of the characters just laughed? Like it wasn’t even a funny comment.
First time reading this author. But, Demet Divaroren, I’d love to see what you’d come up with next!!
“𝘞𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘰 resist, 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘰𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘵…”
“…𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤 𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦”
|| Themes ||
🌙 Strong Female Character
🔮 Magic
⚔️ War & Oppression
🌙 Rebellion
🔮 Feminism & Equality
⚔️ Power
——
I came this close to DNF this book. I couldn’t get into it (at first), but I wanted to finish it so I could give an honest review. Now that I have finished it, please keep in mind that these are my own opinions about this book, don’t take my dislike for this book affect your own thoughts about this book.
So, firstly, thank you NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the ARC, in exchange for an honest review.
When I read the summary and saw the cover, that is what drew me to wanting to read this, however, I did not enjoy this as much as I had hoped.
The first 60% of this book, I felt like I was lost, confused and the book dragged on forever. But once I got past that 60% the rest of the story felt so much easier to understand and a lot better to read. I guess the stuff before was the anticipation, a bit slow but it all fell into place.
For me personally, I think this book might need to come with some small TWs only because it rubbed me the wrong way with some of the content in the story. For starters, the whole idea of eradicating a whole race of magic wielders and the mention of slaves, felt a little too close to home with First Nations people (again imo, not trying to make it sound political or whatever). It wasn’t overly graphic, just some of the stuff made it sound a little too real. But the approach with the race being magic wielders made it interesting, especially with the lead up to the end, everything made so much sense and it was executed very well.
Despite that small issue I had, I found the last lot of the story intriguing. The twists along the way and near the end definitely made it better. Which is why I decided to give the story 3 stars rather than my original thought of 2 out of 5.
The characters were very well developed and I found that with each mystery/lie uncovered, there was character development. I didn’t have any major issues with the characters (which is good cause sometimes you get some that just really piss you off) just the story itself was a bit slow.
Given that the FMC is only 16, her characteristics were strong minded, has a strong sense of justice and she would not bend for no man, I loved that about her. She would not tolerate BS, especially the torture she goes through. The side characters were also lovely. One of the village ladies reminded me of your usual gossiping aunties 🤣
——
Idk if there was supposed to be a cliffhanger or not, but it had a good ending but at the same time the ending ending felt flat. Like someone yelled something in the crowd and then one of the characters just laughed? Like it wasn’t even a funny comment.
First time reading this author. But, Demet Divaroren, I’d love to see what you’d come up with next!!
March 30, 2025
Thank you SO much to Allen & Unwin for this one. All thoughts are my own.
I loved this SO much. I was captivated right from the start. Rehya is such a strong, fierce, compassionate, wonderful character and I couldn’t help but fall in love with her from page one.
This is a fantasy, but it has elements commonly found in dystopian novels too despite not being set in our world. A bad line of rulers making terrible decisions, forced marriage and conscription, lies and corruption. And magic, which is outlawed.
Every aspect of this was woven together wonderfully and the pacing had me hooked, the urgency of the narrative slowly growing until the climax at the end.
I loved every single side character in this book. They’re all well fleshed out, all brimming with personality. I really loved the found family in this one, the way these kids are so willing to fight for each other.
It was quite refreshing to find no romance between these pages. I LOVE a romance, I predominantly read books with some kind of romance plot, but it was a nice change to pick up a book where there’s too much else going on for anyone to even be considering romance.
I highly recommend this to lovers of YA fantasy with strong female leads.
I loved this SO much. I was captivated right from the start. Rehya is such a strong, fierce, compassionate, wonderful character and I couldn’t help but fall in love with her from page one.
This is a fantasy, but it has elements commonly found in dystopian novels too despite not being set in our world. A bad line of rulers making terrible decisions, forced marriage and conscription, lies and corruption. And magic, which is outlawed.
Every aspect of this was woven together wonderfully and the pacing had me hooked, the urgency of the narrative slowly growing until the climax at the end.
I loved every single side character in this book. They’re all well fleshed out, all brimming with personality. I really loved the found family in this one, the way these kids are so willing to fight for each other.
It was quite refreshing to find no romance between these pages. I LOVE a romance, I predominantly read books with some kind of romance plot, but it was a nice change to pick up a book where there’s too much else going on for anyone to even be considering romance.
I highly recommend this to lovers of YA fantasy with strong female leads.
July 29, 2025
This is not the kind of book I normally read; I'll preface my review by stating that. Young adult fantasy... like this... is not exactly my cup of tea.
But this book I found interesting, and I'll explain why.
I came across it randomly because a friend had downloaded it to my Kindle; while I don't have the same reading tastes as that friend, the book intrigued me because it was so unlike what I usually read.
The book's plot is well-formatted; though the magic is a little obscure (that is, you have to really think about it to make out what's happening; and sometimes you just don't know) you care enough about the characters to persevere.
That is Blood Moon Bride's real strength; the characters. Though the main character is uninspiring to begin with, you care enough about those around her to persevere. Special marks for the Assessor, a strong and frankly terrifying character; but unfortunately signs of weakness lessen her appeal towards the end, though she does have a satisfying character arc.
My biggest issue with this book? Rehya's disregard for motherhood. I get it. In the context of this story, she's practically a child bride being forced to marry an older man.
But this creates a very biased view of marriage... even the joys of marriage such as childbearing and children are painted in a way which causes horror and disgust. While I understand the narrative choice, I think it is a pity that Rehya is so unfeminine in her manner, and displays such disgust at ideas of marriage and child-bearing.
Overall, frankly much better than I expected; and while I wouldn't read it again, and might not recommend it, I'm glad I read it because it introduced lots of interesting ideas.
But this book I found interesting, and I'll explain why.
I came across it randomly because a friend had downloaded it to my Kindle; while I don't have the same reading tastes as that friend, the book intrigued me because it was so unlike what I usually read.
The book's plot is well-formatted; though the magic is a little obscure (that is, you have to really think about it to make out what's happening; and sometimes you just don't know) you care enough about the characters to persevere.
That is Blood Moon Bride's real strength; the characters. Though the main character is uninspiring to begin with, you care enough about those around her to persevere. Special marks for the Assessor, a strong and frankly terrifying character; but unfortunately signs of weakness lessen her appeal towards the end, though she does have a satisfying character arc.
My biggest issue with this book? Rehya's disregard for motherhood. I get it. In the context of this story, she's practically a child bride being forced to marry an older man.
But this creates a very biased view of marriage... even the joys of marriage such as childbearing and children are painted in a way which causes horror and disgust. While I understand the narrative choice, I think it is a pity that Rehya is so unfeminine in her manner, and displays such disgust at ideas of marriage and child-bearing.
Overall, frankly much better than I expected; and while I wouldn't read it again, and might not recommend it, I'm glad I read it because it introduced lots of interesting ideas.
December 14, 2025
I'm not the biggest fantasy reader, but I love to read out of my comfort zone and experience it all.
This book drew me in by the front cover image which promised a hint of magic and I couldn't wait to dive in.
I loved the setting from the start with Rehya and her mum still coming to terms with the loss of her father and the prospect that escaping the slums would now never happen - especially with her mum so unwell.
Instead, Rehya was now destined to become one of the many blood moon brides, sold off to the highest bidder and a life of hard work and childbirth.
When she rebels at the ceremony, she's sent off to The Nest to atone her sins - but what she finds their is so much more than a prison.
I actually felt as though this took me a while to really get into - but I didn't feel bogged down or dislike anything about it - I just didn't feel fully invested.
However, having now finished reading, I really enjoyed the overall read and absolutely need to get my hands on book 2 and find out what happens next.
Although very much a fantasy read, there's certainly a fair few elements here that resonate and mirror elements of the world we live in today and this makes it all the more poignant.
I loved Rehya and her determination to change things.
In contrast to similar reads, this is done through seeking out truths and joining with others like her before staging a rebellion - but the tension builds throughout and leaves us wanting more by those final pages.
This book drew me in by the front cover image which promised a hint of magic and I couldn't wait to dive in.
I loved the setting from the start with Rehya and her mum still coming to terms with the loss of her father and the prospect that escaping the slums would now never happen - especially with her mum so unwell.
Instead, Rehya was now destined to become one of the many blood moon brides, sold off to the highest bidder and a life of hard work and childbirth.
When she rebels at the ceremony, she's sent off to The Nest to atone her sins - but what she finds their is so much more than a prison.
I actually felt as though this took me a while to really get into - but I didn't feel bogged down or dislike anything about it - I just didn't feel fully invested.
However, having now finished reading, I really enjoyed the overall read and absolutely need to get my hands on book 2 and find out what happens next.
Although very much a fantasy read, there's certainly a fair few elements here that resonate and mirror elements of the world we live in today and this makes it all the more poignant.
I loved Rehya and her determination to change things.
In contrast to similar reads, this is done through seeking out truths and joining with others like her before staging a rebellion - but the tension builds throughout and leaves us wanting more by those final pages.
March 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this book it just didn’t excite me the way that I wish it had.
I loved the magic wielders and the differences in how their magic presented itself. I think that was the best part of the book for me. Rehya’s abilities would be incredibly handy in a real world situation.
I think this may resonate more with a younger audience who is new to this type of book and can see themselves more in the characters.
I think I needed more backstory or world building to really connect me with the plight of the story - yes it’s universal but I didn’t have the emotional connection I wanted to really feel all of it. I acknowledge this can be hard to achieve in a stand alone without dragging it out immensely.
The found family group in the Nest was great. Again I wish I had more of an emotional connection with the group.
The plot twist was great! I didn’t really see the twist coming with the war so that was fun. If there was more about this aspect and the journey to find the Alkemmi I would have rated it higher.
The writing style was easy to read and immerse myself into and I would love to read more of this authors work.
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for allowing me to read an early copy of this book. This is my honest opinion.
I loved the magic wielders and the differences in how their magic presented itself. I think that was the best part of the book for me. Rehya’s abilities would be incredibly handy in a real world situation.
I think this may resonate more with a younger audience who is new to this type of book and can see themselves more in the characters.
I think I needed more backstory or world building to really connect me with the plight of the story - yes it’s universal but I didn’t have the emotional connection I wanted to really feel all of it. I acknowledge this can be hard to achieve in a stand alone without dragging it out immensely.
The found family group in the Nest was great. Again I wish I had more of an emotional connection with the group.
The plot twist was great! I didn’t really see the twist coming with the war so that was fun. If there was more about this aspect and the journey to find the Alkemmi I would have rated it higher.
The writing style was easy to read and immerse myself into and I would love to read more of this authors work.
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for allowing me to read an early copy of this book. This is my honest opinion.
December 7, 2025
Fantasy audiobook. The story is interesting, well written. But at times it is tragic. Rehya’s hardships are not overplayed in the narrative, but are uncomfortable to read. But given the chance she, and the women she is surrounded by have the courage to stand up for what is right. Her magic has had to be hidden, but she is going to become a force to be reckoned with. The patriarchal ruler, and his goons, better watch out.
By the end of listening to book one I’m sure book two will be welcome in my library.
This book is fiction, but the subject of subjugation and debasement of women is something that for many in our world is still horribly real. My own daughter grew up in a household, and society where women are seen as equal, and able to carve out any future that they wish. Equal in choice as any male, beholden only to them selves. I wish this aas true the world over.
Although it is not my direct area of education, this book may be a good way for English and Personal support departments to jointly open up discussions of acceptable attitudes, actions towards and rights of women.
Thank you to Bolinda Audio and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
By the end of listening to book one I’m sure book two will be welcome in my library.
This book is fiction, but the subject of subjugation and debasement of women is something that for many in our world is still horribly real. My own daughter grew up in a household, and society where women are seen as equal, and able to carve out any future that they wish. Equal in choice as any male, beholden only to them selves. I wish this aas true the world over.
Although it is not my direct area of education, this book may be a good way for English and Personal support departments to jointly open up discussions of acceptable attitudes, actions towards and rights of women.
Thank you to Bolinda Audio and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
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July 19, 2025Demet is such a wonderful writer and Blood Moon Bride captures themes that really matter to me: feminism and loyalty to family and friends that’s motivated by love and empathy. Sometimes we think the dramas in speculative fiction are unrelated to the real world because fantasy is seen as escapism. In some ways, speculative fiction is escapism, but our world shares Rehya’s challenges of forced marriage and poverty. And it’s always a joy to see those problems vanquished. I especially liked Demet’s inclusion of disinformation in her world building. It felt realistic and too close to our world for comfort.
I am thrilled that my friend and colleague has created such a wonderful book. I made a decision a couple of years ago not to do star ratings for my reviews, but in my heart there are lots of stars and moons and suns for Demet.
I am thrilled that my friend and colleague has created such a wonderful book. I made a decision a couple of years ago not to do star ratings for my reviews, but in my heart there are lots of stars and moons and suns for Demet.
December 6, 2025
Thank you to Bolinda Audio for the ALC.
Plot 3.75/5
Characters 3.5/5
Ending 3/5
Interest 3/5
Overall 3/5
-For the life of me I couldn’t really focus on the this story. Despite listening to it on audiobook, and trying to understand what was going on, my brain just wasn’t receiving any of the information and making sense of it. There were some interesting parts where I could definitely see the sort of female rage plot line that it was trying to convey but I couldn’t really follow along easily.
-Similarly, I could t really identify who was who and who was supposed to have a relation to which character. It was all a bit blurry to me and not having the written book to help along, I didn’t really connect with anyone cause I didn’t know who anyone was. Except for Rehya. She had her moments, seeing as she’s the main character.
-Again, similarly, I didn’t really get the ending from what was going on to where things are supposed to be heading. Unfortunately, I don’t think I’d read a sequel to this book because I just could t follow along. Maybe one day I’ll come back to it but for now, I’ll leave it to the side.
Plot 3.75/5
Characters 3.5/5
Ending 3/5
Interest 3/5
Overall 3/5
-For the life of me I couldn’t really focus on the this story. Despite listening to it on audiobook, and trying to understand what was going on, my brain just wasn’t receiving any of the information and making sense of it. There were some interesting parts where I could definitely see the sort of female rage plot line that it was trying to convey but I couldn’t really follow along easily.
-Similarly, I could t really identify who was who and who was supposed to have a relation to which character. It was all a bit blurry to me and not having the written book to help along, I didn’t really connect with anyone cause I didn’t know who anyone was. Except for Rehya. She had her moments, seeing as she’s the main character.
-Again, similarly, I didn’t really get the ending from what was going on to where things are supposed to be heading. Unfortunately, I don’t think I’d read a sequel to this book because I just could t follow along. Maybe one day I’ll come back to it but for now, I’ll leave it to the side.
April 19, 2025
Every year in Mennama valley, young girls are forced into marriages for the valley’s advancement and prosperity. This year, fifteen year old Rheya is eligible. However, Rheya is fierce, a girl who refuses to bow down to tradition. When she lashes out, she is sent to the Nest, where she will be taught to be subservient and obey her husband. Over here, she discovers magic, which has been outlawed for many years. Rheya must decide whether to submit to the life of a bride, or rebel. I loved this book’s themes of female empowerment, friendship and loyalty. The main character was an amazing strong female lead. The pacing of the story was perfect and it had me hooked all throughout the book.
May 2, 2025
Overall, I was satisfied and enjoyed the story that the author had created. The characters growth over time was good and I think Demet has done a good job. In saying that, I gave this book a 4 out of 5 stars because I did struggle to really get into the plot in the first half of the book, there were sections where I didn’t really feel like a made sense and I couldn’t really get into the story until roughly the second half of part two.
That is honestly my only critique of Blood Moon Bride, I do recommend seeing it to the end because I have more positive feelings about this and think it’s worth giving a read.
That is honestly my only critique of Blood Moon Bride, I do recommend seeing it to the end because I have more positive feelings about this and think it’s worth giving a read.
August 5, 2025
Blood Moon Bride is a powerful novel following a strong female character challenging expectations and a dystopian government.
I enjoyed reading this, and the universe that Demet Divaroren built around me. However, I would say that it borders on a middle-grade novel and felt that it could have more depth in the characters and lore.
The main thing I would say is to not expect great YA themes and romance, rather to enjoy the ride that the main character takes you on
(Sorry, I wrote this review a while after reading and wasn’t sure what to write (-_-))
I enjoyed reading this, and the universe that Demet Divaroren built around me. However, I would say that it borders on a middle-grade novel and felt that it could have more depth in the characters and lore.
The main thing I would say is to not expect great YA themes and romance, rather to enjoy the ride that the main character takes you on
(Sorry, I wrote this review a while after reading and wasn’t sure what to write (-_-))
March 16, 2026
I really liked the idea of this book.
I got hooked straight away - always a good sign
I'm not sure if this book was just too YA for me - its almost like this would be a good book for a young person.....pre-teen almost??
It was way too simplistic IMO, the concepts whilst great were somehow dulled and I just kept waiting for 'more' with the writing.
I give it 3 stars for the potential - the storyline was a great idea
I got hooked straight away - always a good sign
I'm not sure if this book was just too YA for me - its almost like this would be a good book for a young person.....pre-teen almost??
It was way too simplistic IMO, the concepts whilst great were somehow dulled and I just kept waiting for 'more' with the writing.
I give it 3 stars for the potential - the storyline was a great idea
April 16, 2025
This book writes about some big issues in such a good way. It portrays underage marriage within a fantasy realm.
I couldn’t put it down. I think it’s a real good gateway for young people to see and read about a larger issue that affects us in today day and age.
Reyha is a strong female in a world where being female does not leverage enough respect. Male hold the power and rich city males hold even more power. Young woman are married off in arranged marriages at the age of 16 to bore children. Men are then trained to go to war to protect the kingdom.
Betrayal, lies, suppression, gender and financial inequality, fighting for survival and alot of pain.
These are all emotions that Reyha has to go through in fighting for what is right and uncovering the truths.
I couldn’t put it down. I think it’s a real good gateway for young people to see and read about a larger issue that affects us in today day and age.
Reyha is a strong female in a world where being female does not leverage enough respect. Male hold the power and rich city males hold even more power. Young woman are married off in arranged marriages at the age of 16 to bore children. Men are then trained to go to war to protect the kingdom.
Betrayal, lies, suppression, gender and financial inequality, fighting for survival and alot of pain.
These are all emotions that Reyha has to go through in fighting for what is right and uncovering the truths.
April 13, 2025
This book was a nice change of pace for me - it felt almost dystopian with fantasy as a subgenre. It was more of character dive than an action-packed novel, and it definitely had its' blood-boiling moments. I don't know what I would do if I was living in that world. Plus it had a couple of plot twists I never saw coming!
March 8, 2025
*spoiler free*
A fantastically relatable book given our current world events surrounding women’s rights, and with the wiping of history of certain cultures and beliefs. This is a stand alone book, that is accessible for all ages and weaves a narrative that is relatable and poignant in its message!
A fantastically relatable book given our current world events surrounding women’s rights, and with the wiping of history of certain cultures and beliefs. This is a stand alone book, that is accessible for all ages and weaves a narrative that is relatable and poignant in its message!
June 3, 2025
it is pretty good with combining the reality of arranged and forces marriages back in the day, combined with some magic and trying to destroy the evil Governor who is lying to everyone
no spice, wasn't romance at all really but pretty good read to get into
no spice, wasn't romance at all really but pretty good read to get into
July 13, 2025
So proud of my friend Demet and this beautiful book. Such great world-building in this fantasy novel, loved the plot twists, but most of all love the feminist thread about women finding their power and tearing down patriarchy. So deep and well crafted.
September 3, 2025
i wish i could have enjoyed this more to support a fellow aussie but unfortunately for me, it wasn’t giving.
the story was there but for me it just lacked a bit in what i was anticipating it to be about.
i would not go out of my way to recommend but it is an easy read.
the story was there but for me it just lacked a bit in what i was anticipating it to be about.
i would not go out of my way to recommend but it is an easy read.
April 6, 2025
An interesting premise, but I feel it needed to be a bit more fleshed out. Better review coming soon!
December 23, 2025
This was such a good book and I will definitely be listening to it agian when I have more free time it has a very interesting magic system and I enjoyed all the politics and fantasy aspects
April 27, 2025
This was a unique YA fantasy which blended fantasy with a dystopian type world. The story started off a little slow as we follow Rehya through her life and what it means to be a woman in her world. However the whole way through I was super intrigued to find out what was going to happen next and see where the story goes. As we progressed into the book the pace picked up, and there were twists and turns to keep things extra interesting! This book touches on many important topics such as oppression, culture, gender inequality and corruption.
Thank you to Allen & Unwin NZ for the gifted review copy.
Thank you to Allen & Unwin NZ for the gifted review copy.
July 9, 2025
Young women enter into marriages when they turn sixteen to help continue their line and give back to the community. These marriages are decided on by the governor and the men barter what they can give him in exchange for a bride. Rehya should have been safe for one more blood moon cycle, but when the governor lowers the age of marriage she must make a choice: rebel against the system, or buckle under its weight.
The setup for this book definitely has Handmaid’s Tale vibes. Rehya exists in a patriarchal society where a woman’s worth is determined by her ability to bear children and they are forced to take a husband regardless of their wants or needs.
What sets this book apart is the element of magic that is included. Rehya has magic in her blood and must hide this part of herself if she is to survive in a world where those with magical abilities are persecuted.
A story about resistance and female power will always interest me, however, I wasn’t quite gripped by this one. It certainly tackles important topics such as gender inequality and racism, but I did not feel myself connecting to characters in a way that I would have liked to. However, if you’re looking for a YA novel that encourages young women to speak out against an unjust system, then you may enjoy this one.
Thanks so much to Allen and Unwin NZ for sending me a copy to review!
The setup for this book definitely has Handmaid’s Tale vibes. Rehya exists in a patriarchal society where a woman’s worth is determined by her ability to bear children and they are forced to take a husband regardless of their wants or needs.
What sets this book apart is the element of magic that is included. Rehya has magic in her blood and must hide this part of herself if she is to survive in a world where those with magical abilities are persecuted.
A story about resistance and female power will always interest me, however, I wasn’t quite gripped by this one. It certainly tackles important topics such as gender inequality and racism, but I did not feel myself connecting to characters in a way that I would have liked to. However, if you’re looking for a YA novel that encourages young women to speak out against an unjust system, then you may enjoy this one.
Thanks so much to Allen and Unwin NZ for sending me a copy to review!
May 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this book!! it didn’t excite me as much as my 4-5 star reads but it was still such a good book!
I loved the magic wielders in this world, this was definitely the best part of this book (in my opinion) just the way each wielder was so different was so cool!!
There definitely needs to be more back story/ world building which is why I think this didn’t give me a 4 star feeling - which is completely fine!!!
Loved the Nest, and how these characters really bonded but again, there needs to be more connection between these characters, for me to really love them.
I loved the first part of this book, it was really quick paced and it did get right into the plot but I feel like if this was a duology it could have been better ✨
I loved the magic wielders in this world, this was definitely the best part of this book (in my opinion) just the way each wielder was so different was so cool!!
There definitely needs to be more back story/ world building which is why I think this didn’t give me a 4 star feeling - which is completely fine!!!
Loved the Nest, and how these characters really bonded but again, there needs to be more connection between these characters, for me to really love them.
I loved the first part of this book, it was really quick paced and it did get right into the plot but I feel like if this was a duology it could have been better ✨
January 1, 2026
Beautifully written but too YA for me to really connect with. I would have loved a slightly more complicated ending.
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