By the Moon

by Holly Bowen

“What choice do I have? My people, dead. My home, gone. Of course I will travel. For Seylon.”

A new mage in training, sixteen-year-old Feyla’s life shatters irreversibly when she is urged to journey to Anguard, the realm’s capital. She must travel to request aid against the forest beasts that threaten to destroy her village.

Torn between helping her people and ensuring her own survival, Feyla trains her fledgling powers before forging west. Alone she enters the Hold, a mountain fortress, where instead of impaling her, warrior Guthnick agrees to guide her across the snowy peaks.

Yet bigger challenges lie in wait. Hawks with talons sharp as knives circle the path to Anguard, and they must pass the fiery Pit of the Honourless, the realm’s prison. Even if she does reach the capital, the fortressed city does not simply open its gates to any mere villager.

Can Feyla survive the path to Anguard before the beasts destroy the only home she has ever known? Scroll up to buy By the Moon and find out!

By the Moon is a fast-paced quest story, with themes of found family, the chosen one, and the hero’s journey. It will resonate with readers of The Halfmen of O, Horizon Zero Dawn, and The High Mountain Court. This is book one of the Anguard Archives series.

Genres: Fantasy

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 21, 2025

About the author

Hi! I'm Holly, a lifelong reader turned author. Between Wind and Stone is my newest YA fantasy release, the second book in the Anguard Archives series. My novels are fast-paced with high vibes. I love to write about brave FMCs in beautiful realms, and the best compliment I've ever had is that my books 'feel like the fantasy you grew up on.'

I live in Taupo, New Zealand, with my partner, two young sons, and an extremely destructive puppy. When I'm not drinking cappuccinos and writing in our local cafés, you can find me swimming in the lake or hiding in our garden sauna, making up stories in my head.

Reviews

[Gem Bowman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, a beautifully immersive fantasy that balances heart, intrigue, and adventure!

As a fan of fantasy and gaming-style worlds, I was instantly drawn to this story and it absolutely delivered. What I really appreciated was that it had all the magic and mystery I love without being overly dark or heavy. It struck the perfect balance: full of depth and high stakes, but also uplifting and hopeful.

From the very beginning, I was completely invested in Feyla (the main character). She’s dynamic, feisty and deeply relatable, and I cared about her journey straight away. The world-building was another standout for me it was rich, vivid and described in a way that made everything feel tangible.
One scene that has stayed with me set in a remote mountain village "The Hold" was so well written I could see it unfolding like a movie in my head.

The story kept me turning pages, wondering what would happen next, but I never felt lost or overwhelmed. It was exciting and comforting at the same time, like the best kind of adventure tale.
By the end I felt totally satisfied with the arc of this first book, but I’m so ready to dive into the next installment. It feels like the beginning of a brilliant series.

I normally listen to audiobooks, so it’s rare for me to read a physical copy as an advanced reader but this one was a genuine page-turner.
If you love character-driven fantasy with a strong, engaging protagonist and a richly imagined world, I highly recommend picking this up.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this beautiful book as an ARC, for a honest review.

I loved disappearing into Freyla’s world. The characters were well developed and loveable. The journey Freyla takes you on is magical, descriptive and heart-warming.

I found myself rooting for Freyla and her village. Feeling the many emotions through the ups and downs.

By The Moon is an engaging page turner that will take you on an unforgettable adventure.

[K a s s · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, and honestly? I’m impressed.

Let’s start with the setting - moody, mysterious, and filled with just enough danger to keep everyone close to the village (thanks to the roaming beasts, no biggie). The world-building is super immersive, and I was living for the level of detail. It felt like a movie was playing in my head the entire time - always a good sign.

Our girl Feyla is 16 and full of that chosen-one energy. Look, I say I’m tired of the whole “teenager must save the world” trope, but the truth is… I eat it up every time. And this one? It delivers. Feyla’s growth feels real. Every trial (and there are plenty!) levels her up in a way that’s satisfying without being overdone.

Speaking of satisfying: the magic system is pretty unique and honestly had me intrigued. Holly (the author) has clearly thought of everything — the little details really carry this story. You can tell she put a lot of love into this world.

But let’s talk side characters, because wow. Seosha quietly cheering Feyla on? Adored her. The mountain boys? Loved them. Maya? Obsessed. The pixies?? Don’t even get me started — I want a whole spin-off. Each character added something special and helped make Feyla’s journey feel rich and layered.

Now, a quick moment of silence for Raven not being the love interest. I wanted more romance (I always do), but I’ll forgive it because everything else just worked. There is a subtle “who do we trust?” vibe running throughout, which added a nice tension to the story.

If you like coming-of-age fantasy this one’s worth your time. Can’t wait for book two.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful and magical adventurous tale.

P.s. I can’t wait to see where Feyla goes next and what her journey as a training mage will be like.

[Joshua Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thrilling twist and blend of the heros journey, and a call to adventure. We have a youthful heroine Feyla, in a world of beasts, pixies and dark characters.

I feel like this is just a dip into the start of several novels for Feyla as I am left with more questions than answers about her world. Such questions like the history of her parentage, and the significance of the moon.

I look forward to the next book in the series.

[vanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much, it was so easy to fall into Feyla's world and go on an exciting adventure with her. I can't wait for the next one and I am also looking forward to reading it to my kids. Holly did such a special job writing this debut novel.

[Deanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holly Bowen is a debut author that I stumbled across on Instagram and I’m so glad I stuck around to read an arc!

I really enjoyed this story! It took me a little bit to get into as the prose was quite lengthy but by 40%-50% I was getting really sucked into it. I enjoyed not only the world-building but the way we got to see a lot of the world through Feyla’s eyes. That earlier prose ended up being useful to describe all the places and people she encountered.

I am very interested by what will happen next! Each new village that Feyla came across was fascinating and had me wanting to know more and by the end I was so intrigued. The book thankfully didn’t end on a cliffhanger but it did leave me wanting more.

This was a fun YA fantasy read with an interesting magic and world and I cannot wait to see where Bowen takes us next.

[Lee-Ann Hiscox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful story of courage and sacrifice. You'll be rooting for Feyla throughout the book. Looking forward to what's in store for the rest of Feyla's story.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly I want to say thank you to the author Holly Bowen for giving me an ARC copy of this beautiful, magical, and whimsical YA book to read. I appreciate you so much!

✨ About By The Moon ✨
Sixteen-year-old mage Feyla’s life flips upside down when she’s told to head to Anguard, the capital, to ask for help against the forest beasts threatening her village.

Caught between duty and survival, she trains her magic and sets off alone—until gruff warrior Guthnick agrees to guide her through the dangerous mountains.

But getting to Anguard won’t be easy. Deadly hawks, a fiery prison, and a city that doesn’t welcome strangers all stand in her way.

✨ My Review ✨

I’m a big fan of fantasy stories, especially ones with a bit of a video game vibe, and this one grabbed my attention. It was the perfect mix of intense moments and feel-good energy without getting too dark. A perfect novel for YA readers

I found it hard to get in to the story straight away, due to the descriptive world building (which isn’t a bad thing at all), but once I was in, I was IN. It was easy to love our FMC, Feyla. She’s got a strong personality, she’s easy to connect with, and I really wanted to see where her journey would go.

Holly is such an incredible writer and I was so impressed at her ability to immerse the reader in to the world with her descriptive and whimsical language. A lot of this book felt like reading on a cloud, and then being dragged back down to earth during all of those intense moments.

All in all I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to read more of Feylas journeys!

[Brody Hitchcock · Rating 5 out of 5]

​A truly enchanting and unputdownable read, By the Moon by Holly Bowen is an absolute masterpiece of fantasy. I was so into this book that I devoured it in a single day, something I rarely do. The world-building is rich and immersive, pulling you into a land of magic, peril, and self-discovery. The plot is a thrilling whirlwind of challenges and triumphs that kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. It’s a book that reminds you of the best parts of fantasy, delivering both a powerful story and a sense of wonder.

​The journey of Feyla, our new mage protagonist is amazing. I loved following her as she learned to navigate her powers while embarking on a treacherous journey to Anguard. Her growth feels earned and authentic, and you can't help but root for her. Holly has created a compelling character and an exciting world, and I cannot wait for the next book. I’m eager to see how Feyla's power will grow and what new adventures await her. This book is a must-read.

[Gracey Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! I read the ARC for an honest review and it did not disappoint! Hard to believe it’s a debut—the writing is polished, the characters memorable, and I found the world-building rich and immersive. I was hooked by chapter 3 and it kept me up past bedtime more than once.

The author has a beautiful writing style which transported me right into Feyla’s life. Beautifully described, I could almost feel the landscapes, sensations and emotions as if I were right there experiencing it.

It was well paced for me and the story had very enchanting and unique quality with lots of cool details and fascinating creatures along the way. I’m really hoping there’s more to come because I’d love to dive back into this world!

I think it would appeal to lots of readers, whether you’re a longtime fantasy fan or just love a great adventure. I’m usually a histfic reader and really loved this story. Highly recommended!

[Jen Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re after a fantasy that pulls you in fast and doesn’t let go, By the Moon by Holly Bowen is exactly that kind of read. From the moment you step into Feyla’s world, you’re right beside her on a quest filled with danger, tension, and unexpected twists—especially when it comes to the pixies, who are far from harmless. Feyla isn’t your typical hero either; it’s her unique way of understanding people and thinking her way through problems that gets her out of some seriously sticky situations, which makes her all the more relatable and interesting. This is the kind of story that keeps you turning pages “just one more chapter” at a time—and when you reach the end, you’ll be wishing there was more waiting for you. Book two please!

[Chantelle Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written journey I didn’t expect to love.

This book was incredibly well written and brought Feyla’s journey to life in such a vivid way. It’s not a genre I usually read, but it didn’t take long for me to get completely pulled in. The characters were all so endearing, and I especially loved seeing Feyla’s confidence grow throughout the story. I’m really looking forward to seeing where she goes next.

[Lauren Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Classic Young Adults fantasy novel - I only wish I’d read this when I was a young adult!!

I didn’t realise that this was going to be a series - or so I assume based on the ending! In a way this had me mildly disappointed just because I didn’t get a conclusive ending, but I’m actually very intrigued to see what a follow up will entail. I feel there is a really great story to be told about Feyla’s next chapter!

[Ashwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing story with a great female protagonist that left me waiting for the sequel!
I don't usually read ya, but am an avid fantasy reader and picked up By The Moon because I wanted to read something in this space written by a Kiwi author. What a great choice!
I loved the world building, the characters and the story as a whole. It's definitely a fun ride, so if you are on the fence you should definitely buy a copy 😎

[Maddy ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

The premise of this story caught my attention from the very beginning. An epic adventure? Magic system? I was sold immediately.

It did take me a little while to get into the story but once I was hooked I couldn’t put it down. I loved the immersive world-building, it was vivid and alluring, pulling you right into the heart of the story.

Feyla’s journey kept me turning pages. It beautifully balanced heart and adventure, and watching her develop through all of her trials and tribulations made me so excited to see what came next!

The way Holly writes is so beautifully whimsical and enthralling. It was so easy to get lost in the world she’s created. I for one cannot wait to continue the epic quest Feyla has found herself on, and can’t wait to (hopefully) see more of the characters she has met along the way. 💖

[Belinda Willcox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book. The story was beautifully written, with just the right mix of magic and adventure. I felt close to the characters, especially Feyla. She was everything I love in a main character, strong, brave, kind, and quietly fierce. Her journey pulled me in completely and stayed with me long after I finished. I didn’t want it to end.

[Ngaire Cullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book. 3 chapters in and I was hooked. Picked up the book after seeing the author was a kiwi and not realising it was part of a series. I am a bit gutted that I now have to wait impatiently for the rest of the series. Guess I will just have to read it again when book 2 comes out!

[Rose Greenfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, very well written and so easy to immerse yourself in it and believe that you were right there with her.
This is the fastest I have read a book in years, it was hard to put down.
I cannot wait for the second book.

[Genelle Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading By The Moon. The images in my mind of all of the places Feyla visited on her adventure were so clear, detailed and magical, thanks to Holly's creative writing. I can't wait for book 2 to find out what Feyla does next!

[Lene Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

With her book By The Moon, Holly Bowen has made an impressive debut. It falls in the category of young adult fiction but, despite not falling in the young adult category myself, it had me spellbound and I loved it. I can't wait to read the next book in the Anguard Archives series

[Jin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book, captured me in right from the beginning and took me on an awesome journey. Can’t wait for book #2

[Abbie Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

A genuinely engrossing read. Totally recommend to anyone!

[Jack Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

By the moon is a classic coming of age fantasy adventure from a talented first time author! Its is a real page turner that challenges you to find a spot to put it down.

Feyla is refreshing as the strong young heroin that dosent have to emulate all the masculine heroic tropes to progress in her quest while still being able to fight against the adversity she faces without moments feeling unbelievable or unrealistic. She reminded me of the young female lead Lireal from garth nix abhorsen series.

If you're looking for a young (or old) adult fantasy with a unique and intriguing magic premise look no further. The ending will leave you wanting more with many intriguing questions still to be answered - Bravo - bring on book 2!

[Margot G · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may be a young adult fantasy novel – but this 68-year-old lapped it up in a three day stunt. Not having read since my last tropical holiday, Feyla kept me company and cosy with tears, whoops of joy and quivering fearful anticipation. An awesome book with such great characters, that I am totally invested in and want to know more about.
Roll-on the trilogy!