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Moonlands
Fifteen-year-old Ashley has a complicated life. There's no doubt her overachieving parents love her, but they are wrapped up in their own worlds for so much of the time it leaves her feeling like she's alone.
Like a lot of teenagers, Ashley dreams of other worlds, but unlike a lot of teenagers, her world is about to collapse as rifts to an ancient fae kingdom begin to open all around her. With the arrival of a supernatural hit-squad intent on killing her, and an unexpected inheritance, Ashley's London is about to become a magical and mysterious warzone where the prize is Ashley herself.
Ashley has to find out the secrets of her own life before she is killed. Balancing ancient prophecies, schoolwork, and the love of her life is difficult to say the least! Take part of the wonderful world of Moonlands.
Like a lot of teenagers, Ashley dreams of other worlds, but unlike a lot of teenagers, her world is about to collapse as rifts to an ancient fae kingdom begin to open all around her. With the arrival of a supernatural hit-squad intent on killing her, and an unexpected inheritance, Ashley's London is about to become a magical and mysterious warzone where the prize is Ashley herself.
Ashley has to find out the secrets of her own life before she is killed. Balancing ancient prophecies, schoolwork, and the love of her life is difficult to say the least! Take part of the wonderful world of Moonlands.
Audible Audio
First published March 15, 2013
About the author
Steven Savile
247 books250 followersSteven Savile (born October 12, 1969, in Newcastle, England) is a British fantasy, horror and thriller writer, and editor living in Sala, Sweden.
Under the Ronan Frost penname (inspired by the hero of his bestselling novel, Silver) he has also written the action thriller White Peak, and as Matt Langley was a finalist for the People's Book Prize.
Under the Ronan Frost penname (inspired by the hero of his bestselling novel, Silver) he has also written the action thriller White Peak, and as Matt Langley was a finalist for the People's Book Prize.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
May 4, 2015
I was extremely interested in this book after the first chapter. It was exciting and weird but I was curious to see what happened next. The overall concept isn’t all that original (girls thinks she’s normal but she’s actually an heir to a supernatural kingdom) but I think the execution was pretty good.
The characters are interesting and fun. I didn’t really connect to any of them but I didn’t mind. One thing that I really didn’t like was how a character become a love interest. Just… why? It annoyed me. I wasn’t a bad fan of the main character toward the end. She forgives anyone and everyone if they save her life, never mind what they’ve done. She wasn’t very empowering toward the end of the book.
My favorite thing about this book is how extremely well written it is. I really liked the writing style and even though it was slow at times, the writing style was just great.
Overall, not of my favorites from the year but one of best written. If you like supernatural YA with some fluffy romance, this book is probably for you.
The characters are interesting and fun. I didn’t really connect to any of them but I didn’t mind. One thing that I really didn’t like was how a character become a love interest. Just… why? It annoyed me. I wasn’t a bad fan of the main character toward the end. She forgives anyone and everyone if they save her life, never mind what they’ve done. She wasn’t very empowering toward the end of the book.
My favorite thing about this book is how extremely well written it is. I really liked the writing style and even though it was slow at times, the writing style was just great.
Overall, not of my favorites from the year but one of best written. If you like supernatural YA with some fluffy romance, this book is probably for you.
March 16, 2015
I received a free copy of this e-book on NetGalley in exchange for a review.
2.5
This book starts out so well, but kind of slows down towards the middle and then dramatically dives to a fiery death.
This is a mix of fairy-tales, blended together to create a new and unique world. Ashley thinks she's an ordinary girl until she finds out she's really an heir to the Moonlands kingdom--which is currently being ruled a king who doesn't want to give up his power and so he's going to kill his daughter to keep it (the throne belongs to females only). She's been raised in the non-magical London, until one day her aunt dies, who was one of her protectors, and things are set into motion to for Ash to set about achieving her destiny.
I thought that the beginning of the book was very strong and rather intriguing. You have medley of interesting characters. The only problem was that occasionally Savile got a bit wordy with his descriptions. The plot also doesn't start moving until the middle of book, but while it wasn't noticeable then because of all the build up, it shows in the latter part of the book where everything seems a bit rushed. I expected more trouble to cross her path while she's in Moonlands aside from a pack of wolves.
The characters also didn't annoy me until the later part of the book. I don't understand the recent trend of redeeming bad guys and making them love interests. Redemption arcs are amazing, but only when done right and only when the character goes through enough trouble to convince me to forgive them. However, this fucking guy ate her teacher, and she forgives him because he saved her life? Not only that but she immediately develops a crush on him. This is so utterly disturbing. That's the other thing; I don't understand how Blaze -- who seemed always a smart man -- to do a 180. He knew from the start what he was doing, but somehow he didn't see it as problematic until his own life is on the line. But even when his loyalty is switching he decides to go kill and eat someone........And you want me to want this character's redemption? Why does he eat people at all? Yeah, he's werewolf or just a wolf, I'd be cool if he just ate animals, but people? And this is the romantic interest... excuse-me... HE ATE SOMEONE!! To me it seems he should have been a much older man who becomes her protector, especially as one of the most powerful Alpha's around, and maybe he has a hot son who becomes a love interest. Otherwise this is just deep level disturbing on so many levels.
Ashley too, was suddenly devoid of all personality after they went into Moonlands. Going from a somewhat believable teenage girl who is confused and frightened by the sudden changes in her life, to an emotionless void. The problem with that was I think, the rushed second part, the plot kind of falls apart because nothing really happens? They just travel for a couple of days, with the only conflict being the pack, but that passes quickly. Then they're in the city for the supposed face-off with the evil king. I wish there was more evil to him than just the desire to keep the throne... I mean, his kingdom seems peaceful and prosperous otherwise? Or was Jax the bad guy? ... or the sickness?
I don't know, I kind of skimmed the last 20% of the novel. I wish the quality of the book didn't plumpet with the second half, but unfortunately it does. Judging by the first half alone this would have been a 4-star read for me. Which I think is just too bad.
2.5
This book starts out so well, but kind of slows down towards the middle and then dramatically dives to a fiery death.
This is a mix of fairy-tales, blended together to create a new and unique world. Ashley thinks she's an ordinary girl until she finds out she's really an heir to the Moonlands kingdom--which is currently being ruled a king who doesn't want to give up his power and so he's going to kill his daughter to keep it (the throne belongs to females only). She's been raised in the non-magical London, until one day her aunt dies, who was one of her protectors, and things are set into motion to for Ash to set about achieving her destiny.
I thought that the beginning of the book was very strong and rather intriguing. You have medley of interesting characters. The only problem was that occasionally Savile got a bit wordy with his descriptions. The plot also doesn't start moving until the middle of book, but while it wasn't noticeable then because of all the build up, it shows in the latter part of the book where everything seems a bit rushed. I expected more trouble to cross her path while she's in Moonlands aside from a pack of wolves.
The characters also didn't annoy me until the later part of the book. I don't understand the recent trend of redeeming bad guys and making them love interests. Redemption arcs are amazing, but only when done right and only when the character goes through enough trouble to convince me to forgive them. However, this fucking guy ate her teacher, and she forgives him because he saved her life? Not only that but she immediately develops a crush on him. This is so utterly disturbing. That's the other thing; I don't understand how Blaze -- who seemed always a smart man -- to do a 180. He knew from the start what he was doing, but somehow he didn't see it as problematic until his own life is on the line. But even when his loyalty is switching he decides to go kill and eat someone........And you want me to want this character's redemption? Why does he eat people at all? Yeah, he's werewolf or just a wolf, I'd be cool if he just ate animals, but people? And this is the romantic interest... excuse-me... HE ATE SOMEONE!! To me it seems he should have been a much older man who becomes her protector, especially as one of the most powerful Alpha's around, and maybe he has a hot son who becomes a love interest. Otherwise this is just deep level disturbing on so many levels.
Ashley too, was suddenly devoid of all personality after they went into Moonlands. Going from a somewhat believable teenage girl who is confused and frightened by the sudden changes in her life, to an emotionless void. The problem with that was I think, the rushed second part, the plot kind of falls apart because nothing really happens? They just travel for a couple of days, with the only conflict being the pack, but that passes quickly. Then they're in the city for the supposed face-off with the evil king. I wish there was more evil to him than just the desire to keep the throne... I mean, his kingdom seems peaceful and prosperous otherwise? Or was Jax the bad guy? ... or the sickness?
I don't know, I kind of skimmed the last 20% of the novel. I wish the quality of the book didn't plumpet with the second half, but unfortunately it does. Judging by the first half alone this would have been a 4-star read for me. Which I think is just too bad.
April 14, 2015
(
I received this book free from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review
)
5 Stars
My head is full of OMG's, but not in a bad way. The Ending! Holy hell, what a plot twist, I was not expecting that, at all. But it's not just the heart clenching plots twist that has my heart almost stopped, NO; it's the soul ripping cliff-hanger! A damn cliff-hanger! Why! Now I will have to painstakingly wait for the next installment.
I will admit, (before I star prising this read), that I wasn’t particularly fond of this book when I first started reading it. Not that it was bad, but the first chapter structure, sentence balance and flow, were off, and it made my eyes wander. This stalled the read for me. I had to put it aside for a day or so. But I was intrigued. There was just something about the world I knew nothing about, that planted itself in my mind, created roots and would not let me forget. It made me pick the book up again.
I'm glad I did.
As I started the next chapter I was enchanted, drugged almost. I couldn't stop, nor could I focus on anything else. Aside from that fist blunder, the story flowed and sparked to life before my eyes.
I did have some doubts about Ash, but not as many as I had about Blackwater Blaze. I had him paged as a ruthless blood thirsty, singled minded monster. I was hoping he was going to get killed off. But I was proven wrong. He proved to be so much more than my first impression.
Back to Ash.
My doubt’s, or say, dislikes about Ash happen up on her introduction. She did an overuse YA cliché that made me cringe. I'm not pretty, I'm not special As she paints a mural of another world on her wall, yeah not special at all -_- . That aside, she grew fast. She used her brain to connect the dots. She tried to keep things in her control even when it looked like the end was near. She made the first move; she swallowed her fear and rose above it all. She made choices with knowledge and grace way beyond her years, ones that most teens could never fathom. Power is hard to give up.
It warmed my heart to see that Ash's parents didn't do the YA disappear. Her mother dove right in, and in doing so became one of my favourite characters.
The world of the Moonlands was described masterfully. It was like Steven Savile had personally been there and I was reading first hand accounts. It made me wanted to go there and see that exquisite world myself. I hung on every world, every detail no matter how small. There is a pureness about that world, one we hardly ever see in our concrete jungles. Magnificently Dangerous.
I highly recommend the read. It’s unlike any world you have very read about. It’s a world that only a dream could create and only a writer can bring to life.
Happy Reading
-Emily
5 Stars
My head is full of OMG's, but not in a bad way. The Ending! Holy hell, what a plot twist, I was not expecting that, at all. But it's not just the heart clenching plots twist that has my heart almost stopped, NO; it's the soul ripping cliff-hanger! A damn cliff-hanger! Why! Now I will have to painstakingly wait for the next installment.
I will admit, (before I star prising this read), that I wasn’t particularly fond of this book when I first started reading it. Not that it was bad, but the first chapter structure, sentence balance and flow, were off, and it made my eyes wander. This stalled the read for me. I had to put it aside for a day or so. But I was intrigued. There was just something about the world I knew nothing about, that planted itself in my mind, created roots and would not let me forget. It made me pick the book up again.
I'm glad I did.
As I started the next chapter I was enchanted, drugged almost. I couldn't stop, nor could I focus on anything else. Aside from that fist blunder, the story flowed and sparked to life before my eyes.
I did have some doubts about Ash, but not as many as I had about Blackwater Blaze. I had him paged as a ruthless blood thirsty, singled minded monster. I was hoping he was going to get killed off. But I was proven wrong. He proved to be so much more than my first impression.
Back to Ash.
My doubt’s, or say, dislikes about Ash happen up on her introduction. She did an overuse YA cliché that made me cringe. I'm not pretty, I'm not special As she paints a mural of another world on her wall, yeah not special at all -_- . That aside, she grew fast. She used her brain to connect the dots. She tried to keep things in her control even when it looked like the end was near. She made the first move; she swallowed her fear and rose above it all. She made choices with knowledge and grace way beyond her years, ones that most teens could never fathom. Power is hard to give up.
It warmed my heart to see that Ash's parents didn't do the YA disappear. Her mother dove right in, and in doing so became one of my favourite characters.
The world of the Moonlands was described masterfully. It was like Steven Savile had personally been there and I was reading first hand accounts. It made me wanted to go there and see that exquisite world myself. I hung on every world, every detail no matter how small. There is a pureness about that world, one we hardly ever see in our concrete jungles. Magnificently Dangerous.
I highly recommend the read. It’s unlike any world you have very read about. It’s a world that only a dream could create and only a writer can bring to life.
Happy Reading
-Emily
April 25, 2015
This is one of those books that looked interesting after reading the description. But being YA and with the protagonist being a teenage girl, I'll admit that it wasn't at the top of the to-read list. When our book club picked it for this months book, the pain was taken out of the decision and I dug into it. And I am so glad I did. Any of the minimal apprehension I had was forgotten before I realized it. The characters are interesting and engaging, and they blast through a world that is nothing short of fascinating. The underlying mystery plays out at the perfect pace, allowing some questions to hang in the background while others are quickly answered. It's hard to explain what made this book so much fun without giving anything away, so I'll settle for saying that I'm glad I read it. I look forward to the followup because I can't wait to see what happens next.
March 23, 2015
With Moonlands, we began with a good setting and plot, lots of magic, hidden worlds, many supernatural species, but it did not keep my attention like I thought it would. Relationships between characters felt like they were not full enough for me. Ashley’s childhood background story is non-existent. Details were only given for a few characters added in the story. The multiple first-person viewpoints were never confusing for me. I wish I could this book more starts but it just was not as good as I hopes it would be. * I received this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
December 10, 2016
I wanted to like this book more than I did. A werewolf from the Moonlands has been sent to hunt down and kill a teen schoolgirl in London. The start was dramatic, mysterious, all you'd want from a fantasy chiller.
The wolf then hides out and spends a lot of time thinking about rot, foulness, decay, corpses, stench and more, to make sure we feel it's a horror although nothing much is happening. I tend not to like this kind of descriptive passage but others might enjoy it.
Matters improve when Ashley our heroine is willed a key and address in Clerkenwell by her elderly relative; she is a typical self-absorbed teen girl whose family has recently moved to an address in Mayfair. I am really unconvinced that they would have the money to move here and send her to a school which uses Regent's Park as a sports field. Even if one parent is an accountant and the other runs a talent agency. Anyway Ashley has an odd journey during which she procures some odd items. Only later does she start to make use of them and see the world around her without glamours to hide the crow-people sitting on the gutters or the werewolf at the gate.
Ash tells a teacher what is going on and the teacher starts to hint at matters of magic, then tells her to come back to a room in an old building for a private chat. Bad move. Finding the werewolf munching on someone when she arrives, Ash naturally freaks out and runs home. To find that several local people know more than she does, have been protecting her with earth magic and now want to protect her from the wolf. So Ash... runs away as soon as they go to make preparations. Eh? If she needed to fetch something why wouldn't she tell the nice folks and ask for company?
Ash is also being stalked by something called a Night Gaunt which the werewolf has met in disguise in a junk shop. This pitiless being will suck the life and soul out of anything. This is a nice contrast with Ash's wannabe party girl pal whose inane obsession with celebrity music and parties is sucking the life and soul out of her. So much so, we have to think, that even though Ash runs to her home, she doesn't tell her she's in trouble? Some friend.
A later move in which Ash befriends the person-eating monster is just too unlikely. And how come he instantly stops all the inner dialogue about filth, stench and decay? Up till then it was the only topic of conversation he had. The setting shift to the Moonlands seemed good but I failed to connect with the location somehow - maybe there was too much information about the place thrown at us at once.
The author has written for Doctor Who which explains the London setting and visual aspects of this book. If you liked this read, or if you were as puzzled as I was but liked the London YA scary fantasy idea, try reading Stoneheart by Charlie Fletcher which I found altogether more convincing and scary.
The wolf then hides out and spends a lot of time thinking about rot, foulness, decay, corpses, stench and more, to make sure we feel it's a horror although nothing much is happening. I tend not to like this kind of descriptive passage but others might enjoy it.
Matters improve when Ashley our heroine is willed a key and address in Clerkenwell by her elderly relative; she is a typical self-absorbed teen girl whose family has recently moved to an address in Mayfair. I am really unconvinced that they would have the money to move here and send her to a school which uses Regent's Park as a sports field. Even if one parent is an accountant and the other runs a talent agency. Anyway Ashley has an odd journey during which she procures some odd items. Only later does she start to make use of them and see the world around her without glamours to hide the crow-people sitting on the gutters or the werewolf at the gate.
Ash tells a teacher what is going on and the teacher starts to hint at matters of magic, then tells her to come back to a room in an old building for a private chat. Bad move. Finding the werewolf munching on someone when she arrives, Ash naturally freaks out and runs home. To find that several local people know more than she does, have been protecting her with earth magic and now want to protect her from the wolf. So Ash... runs away as soon as they go to make preparations. Eh? If she needed to fetch something why wouldn't she tell the nice folks and ask for company?
Ash is also being stalked by something called a Night Gaunt which the werewolf has met in disguise in a junk shop. This pitiless being will suck the life and soul out of anything. This is a nice contrast with Ash's wannabe party girl pal whose inane obsession with celebrity music and parties is sucking the life and soul out of her. So much so, we have to think, that even though Ash runs to her home, she doesn't tell her she's in trouble? Some friend.
A later move in which Ash befriends the person-eating monster is just too unlikely. And how come he instantly stops all the inner dialogue about filth, stench and decay? Up till then it was the only topic of conversation he had. The setting shift to the Moonlands seemed good but I failed to connect with the location somehow - maybe there was too much information about the place thrown at us at once.
The author has written for Doctor Who which explains the London setting and visual aspects of this book. If you liked this read, or if you were as puzzled as I was but liked the London YA scary fantasy idea, try reading Stoneheart by Charlie Fletcher which I found altogether more convincing and scary.
July 13, 2013
A novel for young adults that's fully cognisant of the blurry priorities of your average teenage girl, that sits nicely alongside the later Harry Potter books in tone. it succeeds in being the sort of young adult book that fits the genre by featuring fully realised and believable young adults rather than through dumbing down a plot, which means the door is wide open for us old adults to pick it up too.
Steven Savile's prose is often lush and colourful, which suits this fantasy of a young girl stumbling over her destiny beautifully. There's plenty of horror along the way, and Savile doesn't shy away from putting it front and centre where necessary, but there's a mountain of whimsy and invention to go along with it. If I have a grumble it's that the first half of the book, in which our heroine Ash discovers that she might have to be much more than an ordinary schoolgirl, is beautifully paced. The climax, as she battles for the fate of a world that sits alongside our own, is also tremendous. The middle, linking these two marvellous halves, feels underdeveloped. Having brought Ash to the Moonlands with her protector (it would be a horrible spoiler to tell you who that is), the plot rushes them with all speed towards the denouement with hardly a moment to appreciate the world that's being fought over. This is a shame, for the things we do learn hint at a glorious creation. It's a small gripe, and forgivable if the author makes good on the potential for further stories that he seeds through the closing chapters.
In short, this is a stylish and striking entry in a genre that was beginning to feel samey since Rowling left the field. Savile might be the man to shake it up again.
Steven Savile's prose is often lush and colourful, which suits this fantasy of a young girl stumbling over her destiny beautifully. There's plenty of horror along the way, and Savile doesn't shy away from putting it front and centre where necessary, but there's a mountain of whimsy and invention to go along with it. If I have a grumble it's that the first half of the book, in which our heroine Ash discovers that she might have to be much more than an ordinary schoolgirl, is beautifully paced. The climax, as she battles for the fate of a world that sits alongside our own, is also tremendous. The middle, linking these two marvellous halves, feels underdeveloped. Having brought Ash to the Moonlands with her protector (it would be a horrible spoiler to tell you who that is), the plot rushes them with all speed towards the denouement with hardly a moment to appreciate the world that's being fought over. This is a shame, for the things we do learn hint at a glorious creation. It's a small gripe, and forgivable if the author makes good on the potential for further stories that he seeds through the closing chapters.
In short, this is a stylish and striking entry in a genre that was beginning to feel samey since Rowling left the field. Savile might be the man to shake it up again.
November 5, 2017
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is very much one of those books that starts off bursting with potential, but doesn't quite match my expectations. The first portion of the book was so good! I was instantly drawn into the story and became so excited. If I had to judge in on the first third or so I'd be saying it was a 4 star book at least. Savile built up the world and setting wonderfully, had a really deep knowledge of London that impressed me, and seemed to have some original ideas on the kinds of creatures I would meet (the Nightgaunt is a wonderful example) and magic I would encounter! However, as I approached the middle of the book, I realised I was beginning to have a problem with the pacing of the book. This was mostly thanks to Savile's tendency to be a little too wordy and repetitive with his descriptions on the surroundings, people and events. I also realised that despite liking the characters, they seemed to suddenly be a little too changeable, flitting from one personality to another, making decisions that I felt didn't quite suit them and it caused a bit of confusion. When I reached the last third of the book, where we finally get to explore the Moonlands, I really felt that the book had a chance of being rescued. However, I was disappointed to find that the plot rushed along far too quickly and it left no time to appreciate the strange new world Ashley found herself in. What glimpses I did get felt strong and magical, but I really wanted more to happen before the climax of the book. There was quite the cliffhanger however, and I'm intrigued enough to want to read more.
For a full review, see here: http://chasedbymyimagination.blogspot...
For a full review, see here: http://chasedbymyimagination.blogspot...
March 6, 2015
Blackwater Blaze is a wolfen. He and his pack are sent to the human world by Redhard Jax to kill the dead queen Tanaquill's heir since she can take the throne of the current king. But now his pack is dead and he is the only one left to kill the girl and he starts to wonder if Redhart Jax had purposely sent him there, knowing that his pack would be killed...Ashley has never felt like she belonged so when her aunt leaves her a weird book, goggles and an umbrella, Ashley is more than confused, after that she sees a teacher being eaten up by a wolfen. Blckwater Blaze is after the girl but with so many protectors he can't get to her but when she is attacked by something else, Blackwater Blaze has no doubt he's been betrayed by Redhart Jax. So together they journey to the Moonlands to find and destroy the king.
Pretty good book but i did find myself skipping through most of the stuff. I felt nothing for Ashley or Blaze in particular.. The plot was awesome but a teeny bit too simple. That's pretty much it for the negatives.
The fact that the whole world functions on moons was enough to intrigue me. The world building is vivid and entrancing and so beautifully described you actually feel like you're in another world. Ashley's bravery to save her world was pretty cool but i think what i liked the most was the ending. A pretty good cliffhanger!
Just a quick thin-i LOVE THOSE NAMES! Redhart Jaz, Blackwater Blaze and Ashkillion! Man i wish people in our world were named like that!
Savile is definitely making his way up the YA ranks!
Pretty good book but i did find myself skipping through most of the stuff. I felt nothing for Ashley or Blaze in particular.. The plot was awesome but a teeny bit too simple. That's pretty much it for the negatives.
The fact that the whole world functions on moons was enough to intrigue me. The world building is vivid and entrancing and so beautifully described you actually feel like you're in another world. Ashley's bravery to save her world was pretty cool but i think what i liked the most was the ending. A pretty good cliffhanger!
Just a quick thin-i LOVE THOSE NAMES! Redhart Jaz, Blackwater Blaze and Ashkillion! Man i wish people in our world were named like that!
Savile is definitely making his way up the YA ranks!
November 6, 2015
I was drawn to this book by its beautiful cover, what I didn't expect was to be totally blown away by the beautiful story inside. Steven Savile really is a master at weaving a fantastically fun, entertaining story. I stayed up until 6am to finish it because I was so engrossed I completely lost track of time.
Every teenage girl can relate to feeling uncomfortable in their own skin and feeling like they don't belong. In Ashley Hawthorne’s case it's actually true. She isn't who she thinks she is, and when her Aunt dies Ashley’s life is thrown upside down and she embarks on a journey of self discovery that may just change everything. It's really difficult to sum up the book so here are some keywords: fantasy, danger, hope, love, family, all weaved into a great story that I think will stand the test of time and people will be reading and enjoying for many years to come.
For me, one of the underlying themes of the book is that family isn't necessarily blood. Which, due to some person issues right now really had an impact on me and made me love the book even more.
The book is worded perfectly, although it is a YA novel, everyone can enjoy it. This is one of my favourite books this year so far and I really want to know what happens next…please, please let there be another book in the making.
Every teenage girl can relate to feeling uncomfortable in their own skin and feeling like they don't belong. In Ashley Hawthorne’s case it's actually true. She isn't who she thinks she is, and when her Aunt dies Ashley’s life is thrown upside down and she embarks on a journey of self discovery that may just change everything. It's really difficult to sum up the book so here are some keywords: fantasy, danger, hope, love, family, all weaved into a great story that I think will stand the test of time and people will be reading and enjoying for many years to come.
For me, one of the underlying themes of the book is that family isn't necessarily blood. Which, due to some person issues right now really had an impact on me and made me love the book even more.
The book is worded perfectly, although it is a YA novel, everyone can enjoy it. This is one of my favourite books this year so far and I really want to know what happens next…please, please let there be another book in the making.
November 21, 2025
Ashley is a teenage girl trying to traverse changing into a new school and being a teen when the fairy world and its horrors comes crashing in around her. You see, Ashley is the true heir to rule the fairy realm but the king, aka her father she never knew, is set on making her truly dead.
I was initially grabbed by this incredibly imaginative story and it held me for quite a while; I found as the story progressed so did it's pull. Don’t get me wrong, I really enjoyed it but the first ½ was definitely more magnetic than the second.
The characters are written with a vivid flare, popping them right off the pages and into your imagination.
Overall, I found the story to be an easy read and entertaining with character names I couldn't help but love. Moonlands is a great new fantasy series for the younger or young at heart reader. 3.5 Stars.
I received this new release copy of Moonlands from BadPress in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for republication April 17, 2015.
I was initially grabbed by this incredibly imaginative story and it held me for quite a while; I found as the story progressed so did it's pull. Don’t get me wrong, I really enjoyed it but the first ½ was definitely more magnetic than the second.
The characters are written with a vivid flare, popping them right off the pages and into your imagination.
Overall, I found the story to be an easy read and entertaining with character names I couldn't help but love. Moonlands is a great new fantasy series for the younger or young at heart reader. 3.5 Stars.
I received this new release copy of Moonlands from BadPress in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for republication April 17, 2015.
April 26, 2015
I DNF'd at 24%.
I started reading this last night and within the 24% of the book I managed to read I had also managed to clean my house, alphabetize my book shelf, prepare tonight's dinner and do a grocery shop. It gets to a point when you realise you need to give up the ghost.
There's nothing inherently wrong with this book. It is very well written - in fact, the writing style reminds me very much of JK Rowling. The premise and world building is great and a couple of the characters even managed to catch my attention. None of of it made me want to read or care and every time I picked it up, I was bored within minutes.
Can definitely see that some would really enjoy this, but it's just not for me.
I started reading this last night and within the 24% of the book I managed to read I had also managed to clean my house, alphabetize my book shelf, prepare tonight's dinner and do a grocery shop. It gets to a point when you realise you need to give up the ghost.
There's nothing inherently wrong with this book. It is very well written - in fact, the writing style reminds me very much of JK Rowling. The premise and world building is great and a couple of the characters even managed to catch my attention. None of of it made me want to read or care and every time I picked it up, I was bored within minutes.
Can definitely see that some would really enjoy this, but it's just not for me.
April 6, 2015
I cannot begin to express how much I loved this book. I wasn't sure what to expect since it was classified as YA. I should have known it would be amazing, as Steven Savile wrote another book that I love, Immortal. This story follows a 15 year old girl as she discovers her true purpose in life. It has everything I look for in a book and I could not put it down. I only have one wish going forward, which is for a sequel to this book. Please?!
June 13, 2015
Review to come.
April 14, 2015
The two main protagonists were intriguing characters, though the rest were fairly flat, and the plot was standard fantasy. But the writing was good and kept me reading along.
July 14, 2021
This was a pretty decent book, but I found that parts of it dragged a lot. Ashley Hawthorne is just an ordinary 15 year old girl with the normal problems of growing up. When her "Aunt" Elspeth dies and leaves her a mysterious envelope, Ashley's life drastically changes. Soon, she finds herself running for her life, accompanied by a handsome young werewolf who was supposed to be her assassin.
The book is part fairytale retelling and part epic fantasy IMO. I had some problems with how rapidly Ashley just accepted everything that was thrown at her. As she follows Blackwater Blaze back to her (supposed) homeland of Moonlands, she encounters all kinds of different creatures along the way and she just seems to know everything about them. When she finds out that she is the daughter of the Queen and King of Moonlands and, therefore, in line to inherit the throne, she just goes along like it's just another day.
I have found that I really don't like epic fantasy that much, so that could be part of the problem that I had with this book. I kept thinking of all of the quests that occur in those books as I listened to this one. And, the ending was pretty much of a letdown and left the reader with a cliffhanger.
The narrator did a great job with her pacing and most of her voices for the different characters were great. Her performance kept me listening long after I would have probably given up if I had been reading a physical book.
The book is part fairytale retelling and part epic fantasy IMO. I had some problems with how rapidly Ashley just accepted everything that was thrown at her. As she follows Blackwater Blaze back to her (supposed) homeland of Moonlands, she encounters all kinds of different creatures along the way and she just seems to know everything about them. When she finds out that she is the daughter of the Queen and King of Moonlands and, therefore, in line to inherit the throne, she just goes along like it's just another day.
I have found that I really don't like epic fantasy that much, so that could be part of the problem that I had with this book. I kept thinking of all of the quests that occur in those books as I listened to this one. And, the ending was pretty much of a letdown and left the reader with a cliffhanger.
The narrator did a great job with her pacing and most of her voices for the different characters were great. Her performance kept me listening long after I would have probably given up if I had been reading a physical book.
August 3, 2020
WHAT WORDS WOULD BE RIGHT , TO EXPRESS JOY OF THIS AUTHOR'S BOOK!😍
AS I DREW TO THE ENDING OF THIS BOOK!I FELT 😢SAD, IT IS THAT WONDERFUL OF A STORYLINE!😍 BUY THIS BOOK NOW!😍😊😀😃😍 YES 👍IT IS THAT WELL WRITTEN AND THE CHARACTERS ARE VERY EASY TO BE SWEPT AWAY BY THEM!😍 I FOUND MYSELF THINKING THAT I HOPED MANY,MANY PEOPLE WILL GET THIS BOOK!😍SO BUY IT NOW AND READ A DELIGHTFUL STORY!😍I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!😍
AS I DREW TO THE ENDING OF THIS BOOK!I FELT 😢SAD, IT IS THAT WONDERFUL OF A STORYLINE!😍 BUY THIS BOOK NOW!😍😊😀😃😍 YES 👍IT IS THAT WELL WRITTEN AND THE CHARACTERS ARE VERY EASY TO BE SWEPT AWAY BY THEM!😍 I FOUND MYSELF THINKING THAT I HOPED MANY,MANY PEOPLE WILL GET THIS BOOK!😍SO BUY IT NOW AND READ A DELIGHTFUL STORY!😍I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!😍
July 14, 2019
Full review to come!
February 19, 2022
Not awful, but I did find myself becoming bored quickly.
May 13, 2015
Ashley tries to be a normal 15 year old girl, but something just does not feel right. She has wealth and lacks for nothing, but still does not fit in. Blackwater Blaze, the alpha of the Wolven pack, has come through the gate between the worlds to hunt down the traitor. When he is attacked, he realizes his mission is more complicated than it first seemed. Ashley and Blaze’s paths cross, causing dire consequences.
This book felt like Harry Potter meets The Never Ending Story, with some awkwardness thrown in. There was a child surrounded by people who knew who she was but kept it a secret from her, until she was thrown right into the secret with no idea what was happening. There was another world that the characters can cross into with bizarre interesting landscapes as well as tons of creatures such as fae, wolven (who are like huge werewolves that are always wolfed out) tiny pixy creatures, huge trapped rock men, and scary faceless slime men who cause the loss of hope. There was one battle after another, full of death and horror, all for the chance to save the princess of a magical kingdom.
I have had a hard time determining if I liked this book or not. It had a rocky start, taking about 50 pages to actually peak my interest and make me slightly invested in the characters because I felt weighed down by rambling descriptions of old England, or some piece of history I know nothing about. I was also surprised by how much the 15 year old character knew about history and the Blitz (which I take to mean the actions associated with WWII). I most certainly did not know the level of detail she did at that age, so it was a little bit of a character disassociation for me of what a 15 year old girl is really like. Once I became interested in the book, something incredible awkward would happen in the plot that made me feel uncomfortable and I would check out of the book, taking a few pages for me to check back into the story. I will explain the awkwardness in a minute.
Ashley was a 15 year old girl who at times was so innocent and naïve that I wanted to wrap her in bubble wrap to protect her. She would go on long random tangents, connecting strange things together that nobody else would see, like the fact “she is not a cat”, which endeared her to me. I can completely relate to the odd associations. But then this sweet sheltered girl would do strange things, like bathe naked in a lake while a wolven watches her, and she is aware he is watching and she shows herself to him because she likes how it makes her feel. Yeah…this was SUPER AWKWARD for me the reader since that was not at all how she had been described for most of the book. And let’s talk about said Wolven love interest, Blackwater Blaze. He eats people. Like no joke, when he is peckish, somebody gets consumed. And Ashley sees him eat somebody, someone she liked and was helping her, right in front of her, and she feels lust for him the next day. I understand feeling trust and forging a bond with someone who saves you, but that does not mean you want them sexually. Ewww. Also, Blaze can smell her desire for him on multiple occasions, which is icky too when this is a young adult book. And he smells when some girl is on her period which makes him want to literally eat her. These things turned me off from the story completely. If this was an adult science fiction book, whatever, but since this is a young adult story, with a very young sheltered girl, I was not happy with the turn of events. If Blaze had stayed as her protector, one of many, and not been a love interest and I would have been much happier with the story. These uncomfortable scenes made me feel icky and took the book out of the young adult category. And yes I mentioned it was kind of like Harry Potter content wiseish, but the thing with the HP books was that Harry evolved and grew as the series went on, not in the middle of the first book and then revert back to innocence a moment later, just to be sexual again. Without the sexual references, the book would have been a solid 4 stars, but with the details my feelings are an iffy 3 stars.
My favorite part of the story was the side characters. There was a motley crew of people all working together to protect Ashley, be it the Juggler, the dwarf, the bus driver, the human mother or the Mere, all with unique personalities and depth that you would not necessarily expect while having this many side characters. They were described so detailed that I could see them and I felt like I knew them as individual people. The sleeper agent was just about the scariest thing ever, reminding me a lot of a mix between the Silence from Dr. Who and the dementors from HP.
I am conflicted over the book. Some things I loved, like the basic plot and fantastical characters, but other things completely ruined the story for me. I may suggest this for an older reader who likes fantasy books about kids.
I received this title from the author in exchange for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com
This book felt like Harry Potter meets The Never Ending Story, with some awkwardness thrown in. There was a child surrounded by people who knew who she was but kept it a secret from her, until she was thrown right into the secret with no idea what was happening. There was another world that the characters can cross into with bizarre interesting landscapes as well as tons of creatures such as fae, wolven (who are like huge werewolves that are always wolfed out) tiny pixy creatures, huge trapped rock men, and scary faceless slime men who cause the loss of hope. There was one battle after another, full of death and horror, all for the chance to save the princess of a magical kingdom.
I have had a hard time determining if I liked this book or not. It had a rocky start, taking about 50 pages to actually peak my interest and make me slightly invested in the characters because I felt weighed down by rambling descriptions of old England, or some piece of history I know nothing about. I was also surprised by how much the 15 year old character knew about history and the Blitz (which I take to mean the actions associated with WWII). I most certainly did not know the level of detail she did at that age, so it was a little bit of a character disassociation for me of what a 15 year old girl is really like. Once I became interested in the book, something incredible awkward would happen in the plot that made me feel uncomfortable and I would check out of the book, taking a few pages for me to check back into the story. I will explain the awkwardness in a minute.
Ashley was a 15 year old girl who at times was so innocent and naïve that I wanted to wrap her in bubble wrap to protect her. She would go on long random tangents, connecting strange things together that nobody else would see, like the fact “she is not a cat”, which endeared her to me. I can completely relate to the odd associations. But then this sweet sheltered girl would do strange things, like bathe naked in a lake while a wolven watches her, and she is aware he is watching and she shows herself to him because she likes how it makes her feel. Yeah…this was SUPER AWKWARD for me the reader since that was not at all how she had been described for most of the book. And let’s talk about said Wolven love interest, Blackwater Blaze. He eats people. Like no joke, when he is peckish, somebody gets consumed. And Ashley sees him eat somebody, someone she liked and was helping her, right in front of her, and she feels lust for him the next day. I understand feeling trust and forging a bond with someone who saves you, but that does not mean you want them sexually. Ewww. Also, Blaze can smell her desire for him on multiple occasions, which is icky too when this is a young adult book. And he smells when some girl is on her period which makes him want to literally eat her. These things turned me off from the story completely. If this was an adult science fiction book, whatever, but since this is a young adult story, with a very young sheltered girl, I was not happy with the turn of events. If Blaze had stayed as her protector, one of many, and not been a love interest and I would have been much happier with the story. These uncomfortable scenes made me feel icky and took the book out of the young adult category. And yes I mentioned it was kind of like Harry Potter content wiseish, but the thing with the HP books was that Harry evolved and grew as the series went on, not in the middle of the first book and then revert back to innocence a moment later, just to be sexual again. Without the sexual references, the book would have been a solid 4 stars, but with the details my feelings are an iffy 3 stars.
My favorite part of the story was the side characters. There was a motley crew of people all working together to protect Ashley, be it the Juggler, the dwarf, the bus driver, the human mother or the Mere, all with unique personalities and depth that you would not necessarily expect while having this many side characters. They were described so detailed that I could see them and I felt like I knew them as individual people. The sleeper agent was just about the scariest thing ever, reminding me a lot of a mix between the Silence from Dr. Who and the dementors from HP.
I am conflicted over the book. Some things I loved, like the basic plot and fantastical characters, but other things completely ruined the story for me. I may suggest this for an older reader who likes fantasy books about kids.
I received this title from the author in exchange for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com
April 7, 2015
Review also at Pinker Than Fiction Reviews.
Moonlands is an incredibly fast paced paranormal YA. While it lacks some character and plot depth, it's an imaginative and fun read.
If there's one thing Moonlands isn't, it's boring. The story moves along too quickly, with enough action to keep a reader hooked until the end. It's an easy read, finished in just hours. In saying that however, Moonlands, isn't an entirely satisfying read. Savile's world is imaginative. The Fae Kingdom, Moonlands, is quite wondrous, and Savile portrays it nicely. The description of Ashley's wall mural alone brings the alternate world to life. Yet there is not a lot of backstory provided. Savile offers the who's, but doesn't exactly delve into the rest of the W's and the how. Ashley has a book that will tell her everything she needs to know but she barely uses it! Um, can I use it? Where does the sickness come from? How did Ashley's human adoptive parents get involved? How and why did Jax decide to serve the sickness? Why is there no comment on Ashley's friend looking through the goggles and seeing the creatures for what they really are? That's just a few questions. There's too much about the Kingdom before Ashley's birth and the King's sickness that is fudged over. Everything revolves around this, so wanting to know more isn't a big ask. So no, Moonlands isn't boring, but it's story, while interesting, isn't everything it could be. But the Moonlands itself and the plethora of creatures it is home to just tips the wanting more balance into willingness to read the next book. Especially considering the huge cliffhanger Savile leaves us with. I kind of hate him for that, let me tell you. All I'll say is, there better be another book, Savile.
Moonland's characters are also a case of so close but not quite. I like them, but they're lacking just enough that I don't love them. I feel for Ashley's sense of not belonging, but then she's so adamant about being ordinary that she fights against finally belonging. The two don't quite gel. Plus a girl who finds out she's being hunted by an assassin and needs to stay safe, so oh hey, she sneaks out in the middle of the night to get an umbrella from her friend, is not one I'm a big fan of. I may be nitpicking, as it's obvious the umbrella is so much more than an umbrella, but come on! I would've liked to see Ashley think a little more and grow beyond the damsel. Speaking of the assassin, Blaze is another inconsistent character. As a killer werewolf he is awesome. But his sudden change from assassin to knight in shining armour? Also doesn't gel. Granted, he's an awesome bodyguard too, but his change in loyalty needs more substance. As it is lacking, so too is a believable relationship between Blaze and Ashley. One day he eats her teacher in front of her the next she wants to kiss him? Right. There are some good moments between the two and it's proof that Savile has the skill to evoke believable emotions, but like the plot, some solid development is all that's missing. Moonlands is also full of side characters and villains that stand out for being fantasy creatures and prevalent to the ongoing story. They tip the balance towards wanting more for the right reasons.
Moonlands doesn't quite make it to great, but there's plenty to enjoy still and I have hope that it'll get better as the series continues.
I received this book through NetGalley from BadPress for review.
Moonlands is an incredibly fast paced paranormal YA. While it lacks some character and plot depth, it's an imaginative and fun read.
If there's one thing Moonlands isn't, it's boring. The story moves along too quickly, with enough action to keep a reader hooked until the end. It's an easy read, finished in just hours. In saying that however, Moonlands, isn't an entirely satisfying read. Savile's world is imaginative. The Fae Kingdom, Moonlands, is quite wondrous, and Savile portrays it nicely. The description of Ashley's wall mural alone brings the alternate world to life. Yet there is not a lot of backstory provided. Savile offers the who's, but doesn't exactly delve into the rest of the W's and the how. Ashley has a book that will tell her everything she needs to know but she barely uses it! Um, can I use it? Where does the sickness come from? How did Ashley's human adoptive parents get involved? How and why did Jax decide to serve the sickness? Why is there no comment on Ashley's friend looking through the goggles and seeing the creatures for what they really are? That's just a few questions. There's too much about the Kingdom before Ashley's birth and the King's sickness that is fudged over. Everything revolves around this, so wanting to know more isn't a big ask. So no, Moonlands isn't boring, but it's story, while interesting, isn't everything it could be. But the Moonlands itself and the plethora of creatures it is home to just tips the wanting more balance into willingness to read the next book. Especially considering the huge cliffhanger Savile leaves us with. I kind of hate him for that, let me tell you. All I'll say is, there better be another book, Savile.
Moonland's characters are also a case of so close but not quite. I like them, but they're lacking just enough that I don't love them. I feel for Ashley's sense of not belonging, but then she's so adamant about being ordinary that she fights against finally belonging. The two don't quite gel. Plus a girl who finds out she's being hunted by an assassin and needs to stay safe, so oh hey, she sneaks out in the middle of the night to get an umbrella from her friend, is not one I'm a big fan of. I may be nitpicking, as it's obvious the umbrella is so much more than an umbrella, but come on! I would've liked to see Ashley think a little more and grow beyond the damsel. Speaking of the assassin, Blaze is another inconsistent character. As a killer werewolf he is awesome. But his sudden change from assassin to knight in shining armour? Also doesn't gel. Granted, he's an awesome bodyguard too, but his change in loyalty needs more substance. As it is lacking, so too is a believable relationship between Blaze and Ashley. One day he eats her teacher in front of her the next she wants to kiss him? Right. There are some good moments between the two and it's proof that Savile has the skill to evoke believable emotions, but like the plot, some solid development is all that's missing. Moonlands is also full of side characters and villains that stand out for being fantasy creatures and prevalent to the ongoing story. They tip the balance towards wanting more for the right reasons.
Moonlands doesn't quite make it to great, but there's plenty to enjoy still and I have hope that it'll get better as the series continues.
I received this book through NetGalley from BadPress for review.
April 4, 2015
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for review.
This is a solid little bit of young adult fantasy. It's a fairly basic tale of a girl who thinks she's nothing special - not smart, not pretty and whatnot, finding out that of course, she is. And this is set in a world that takes familiar fantasy elements - faeries, werewolves and what have you - and at least does a good job with making the Moonlands feel especially lush. Ashley herself is a pretty likable protagonist too, she feels like a teenager but she grows up when she has to, even if she's aided by some convenient magic towards the end. While it's nothing unique, it does at least have a nice little twist on why the villain is villainous, which is nice. I know this sounds rather generic - and to be honest, the book is - but this is one of those cases where that's not necessarily a bad thing.
There are some minor quibbles to be had though. First the author insists that we know the book is set in 2012. There's a reference to Twitter and tweeting and a throwaway line about Ashley listening to music that speaks to "being a teenager in 2012." I'm not sure why he did this: while having it be known that London is in fact a modern one is mildly important (if nothing else to contrast it against the world of the Moonlands), there's no need to go that specific. This book is solid fantasy with the tiniest hint of steampunk. Knowing it's 2012 vs. 2002 does absolutely nothing for the story and ultimately those references just stick out like a sore thumb . The bigger quibble is that there is some definitely borrowing of ideas from Harry Potter. There's a Knight Bus analogue. A bank that she visits to get her bequeath from a deceased aunt was clearly based on Grimmauld Place in the sense that it's wedged between two buildings and non-magical people have no clue that it's even there. It is a bit confusing as to how they exist given that it's made quite clear that London has next to no magic, but there you go. Finally, there's a creature that saps you of happiness and a will to live before killing you. Hello, Dementors. These aren't book-breakers, but it is disappointing that there is such blatant copying going on.
Finally, the end of the book implies that there will be a sequel. I don't see anything on Goodreads to indicate that said book is about to come into existence anytime soon, but that this book is getting a re-release does make one suspect that it'll come along at some point down the road.
This book shatters no molds, and does feel a bit trope-y (let's just say you'll know that one enemy will flip to the other side well in advance of when he does) but it's enjoyable and if you like the idea, you may enjoy it.
This is a solid little bit of young adult fantasy. It's a fairly basic tale of a girl who thinks she's nothing special - not smart, not pretty and whatnot, finding out that of course, she is. And this is set in a world that takes familiar fantasy elements - faeries, werewolves and what have you - and at least does a good job with making the Moonlands feel especially lush. Ashley herself is a pretty likable protagonist too, she feels like a teenager but she grows up when she has to, even if she's aided by some convenient magic towards the end. While it's nothing unique, it does at least have a nice little twist on why the villain is villainous, which is nice. I know this sounds rather generic - and to be honest, the book is - but this is one of those cases where that's not necessarily a bad thing.
There are some minor quibbles to be had though. First the author insists that we know the book is set in 2012. There's a reference to Twitter and tweeting and a throwaway line about Ashley listening to music that speaks to "being a teenager in 2012." I'm not sure why he did this: while having it be known that London is in fact a modern one is mildly important (if nothing else to contrast it against the world of the Moonlands), there's no need to go that specific. This book is solid fantasy with the tiniest hint of steampunk. Knowing it's 2012 vs. 2002 does absolutely nothing for the story and ultimately those references just stick out like a sore thumb . The bigger quibble is that there is some definitely borrowing of ideas from Harry Potter. There's a Knight Bus analogue. A bank that she visits to get her bequeath from a deceased aunt was clearly based on Grimmauld Place in the sense that it's wedged between two buildings and non-magical people have no clue that it's even there. It is a bit confusing as to how they exist given that it's made quite clear that London has next to no magic, but there you go. Finally, there's a creature that saps you of happiness and a will to live before killing you. Hello, Dementors. These aren't book-breakers, but it is disappointing that there is such blatant copying going on.
Finally, the end of the book implies that there will be a sequel. I don't see anything on Goodreads to indicate that said book is about to come into existence anytime soon, but that this book is getting a re-release does make one suspect that it'll come along at some point down the road.
This book shatters no molds, and does feel a bit trope-y (let's just say you'll know that one enemy will flip to the other side well in advance of when he does) but it's enjoyable and if you like the idea, you may enjoy it.
December 18, 2015
AudioBook Review: Stars Overall: 4 Narration 4 Story 4
A dive into a darker fantasy kicked off with a touch of a slow start as the characters are given time to develop. Ashley, at 15, is convinced she is just normal, with busy parents and nothing special to set her apart. Those dreams are all too soon answered and we are off and running in a hard to put down story.
Saville uses his fresh perspective in this fairy tale inspired fantasy. Ash is a wonderfully well-built character: smart, determined and a little daring, even as I felt her appeal wane a bit with the overly used self-deprecating trope of “I’m not special” and a fairly unnecessary love interest later in the story. Sometimes it is perfectly acceptable to have a heroine that is flawed, and learning without the self-deprecation. Her greatest strength is her willingness to do what needs be done: swallowing her fear and moving forward.
World building is second to none in this story, Savile’s descriptions and reveals bring the world to life, giving a sense of a dream come to life. Certainly a high point of the story. The plotting arc moved steadily early on, but in the latter part of the story the elements felt as if they combined to rush to the end: taking a bit of the shine off of the characters. Sadly Ashley lost much of the sparkle that made her special early on in the midst of the rush to the end…..
Additionally, unlike other teen/ya reads, Ashley’s parents are NOT invisible, her mother is totally supportive and wholly involved, diving right in to lend a hand and support her daughter.
Narration for this story is capably provided by Becky Doughty, and her voicing of Ashley is convincing and feels age appropriate. Her ability to vary delivery and pitch changes to delineate the other characters, and a slight diminishment in the brightness of Ashley’s personality as the story went forward and the character did, in fact, seem to lose some of her spine followed the trajectory of the plot nicely.
While answering many questions, leaving more unanswered with the underlying mystery and a touch of a cliffhanger at the end, the story will leave you wanting more. The strength of description and unique world led to the 4 stars for story. The ending and rush to the finish was a touch disappointing, and while I hoped to see a trajectory for Ashley’s character that went upward rather than dither a bit with some of her decisions, I see potential for her to grow and develop further, and I am curious to know what happens next.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title via AudioBook Blast for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
A dive into a darker fantasy kicked off with a touch of a slow start as the characters are given time to develop. Ashley, at 15, is convinced she is just normal, with busy parents and nothing special to set her apart. Those dreams are all too soon answered and we are off and running in a hard to put down story.
Saville uses his fresh perspective in this fairy tale inspired fantasy. Ash is a wonderfully well-built character: smart, determined and a little daring, even as I felt her appeal wane a bit with the overly used self-deprecating trope of “I’m not special” and a fairly unnecessary love interest later in the story. Sometimes it is perfectly acceptable to have a heroine that is flawed, and learning without the self-deprecation. Her greatest strength is her willingness to do what needs be done: swallowing her fear and moving forward.
World building is second to none in this story, Savile’s descriptions and reveals bring the world to life, giving a sense of a dream come to life. Certainly a high point of the story. The plotting arc moved steadily early on, but in the latter part of the story the elements felt as if they combined to rush to the end: taking a bit of the shine off of the characters. Sadly Ashley lost much of the sparkle that made her special early on in the midst of the rush to the end…..
Additionally, unlike other teen/ya reads, Ashley’s parents are NOT invisible, her mother is totally supportive and wholly involved, diving right in to lend a hand and support her daughter.
Narration for this story is capably provided by Becky Doughty, and her voicing of Ashley is convincing and feels age appropriate. Her ability to vary delivery and pitch changes to delineate the other characters, and a slight diminishment in the brightness of Ashley’s personality as the story went forward and the character did, in fact, seem to lose some of her spine followed the trajectory of the plot nicely.
While answering many questions, leaving more unanswered with the underlying mystery and a touch of a cliffhanger at the end, the story will leave you wanting more. The strength of description and unique world led to the 4 stars for story. The ending and rush to the finish was a touch disappointing, and while I hoped to see a trajectory for Ashley’s character that went upward rather than dither a bit with some of her decisions, I see potential for her to grow and develop further, and I am curious to know what happens next.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title via AudioBook Blast for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
April 12, 2015
ARC copy given by NetGalley in exchange for an honset review.
Reviews that start 'I really wanted to like this book...' are a bit of a cop out in my opinion. however in this case I really wanted to be able to award this book a higher rating and I couldn't. The first two thirds of the book are good; engrossing, well-paced, keep-you-guessing - all accompanied with fascinating little snippets of world building and new additions for the bestiary. Unfortunately the last third of the book undoes much of the good work of the first and second thirds. The pace slows to a crawl. Events happen inexplicably with characters acting in strange ways against their established motivations without properly leading the reader to draw the required conclusions. Instead there is the disorienting sense that we are meant to leap to conclusions. I don't need everything spelled out for me but this book does so many one-eighties that it negates its own narrative arc.
As far as characters go I like Ashley but she lacks much agency at the start and has none whatsoever at the end. Things just happen to her - it's all reaction. I was hoping to see character development but instead I got a pencil outline. I like Blaze too but considering the circumstances of he and Ashley meeting, I would have expected a lot more warring with his nature than we got. Add to that some very odd attempts at sexual tension and the promise was pretty much smothered.
And there are plot holes. Everyone, no matter how hard they try, leaves a few tiny holes but in the last third of this there were gaping chunks that just didn't make sense. It really felt like it needed more time spent on it and perhaps another draft or so. This was underlined by the fact that the occasional typos in the earlier half, increased so that there were on average at least one or more, or transposed prepositions and possessives or super-numery words, on every page. We can all forgive the odd error. There's always a couple that make it through but this felt like the last third hadn't been proofread at all.
So what saved it? Well the world building was fabulous. The cast of creatures was weird and wonderful (frankly we just didn't get to see enough of them, they were under used.) There was wry humour and moments of genuine horror. It was on the road to being a great fantasy romp. Ultimately I think it is held back by those things I mentioned and by Ashley's jarring and inexplicable decision making in the last two chapters.
On the other hand I liked the world enough that I would be tempted to try the next book. Make of that what you will.
Reviews that start 'I really wanted to like this book...' are a bit of a cop out in my opinion. however in this case I really wanted to be able to award this book a higher rating and I couldn't. The first two thirds of the book are good; engrossing, well-paced, keep-you-guessing - all accompanied with fascinating little snippets of world building and new additions for the bestiary. Unfortunately the last third of the book undoes much of the good work of the first and second thirds. The pace slows to a crawl. Events happen inexplicably with characters acting in strange ways against their established motivations without properly leading the reader to draw the required conclusions. Instead there is the disorienting sense that we are meant to leap to conclusions. I don't need everything spelled out for me but this book does so many one-eighties that it negates its own narrative arc.
As far as characters go I like Ashley but she lacks much agency at the start and has none whatsoever at the end. Things just happen to her - it's all reaction. I was hoping to see character development but instead I got a pencil outline. I like Blaze too but considering the circumstances of he and Ashley meeting, I would have expected a lot more warring with his nature than we got. Add to that some very odd attempts at sexual tension and the promise was pretty much smothered.
And there are plot holes. Everyone, no matter how hard they try, leaves a few tiny holes but in the last third of this there were gaping chunks that just didn't make sense. It really felt like it needed more time spent on it and perhaps another draft or so. This was underlined by the fact that the occasional typos in the earlier half, increased so that there were on average at least one or more, or transposed prepositions and possessives or super-numery words, on every page. We can all forgive the odd error. There's always a couple that make it through but this felt like the last third hadn't been proofread at all.
So what saved it? Well the world building was fabulous. The cast of creatures was weird and wonderful (frankly we just didn't get to see enough of them, they were under used.) There was wry humour and moments of genuine horror. It was on the road to being a great fantasy romp. Ultimately I think it is held back by those things I mentioned and by Ashley's jarring and inexplicable decision making in the last two chapters.
On the other hand I liked the world enough that I would be tempted to try the next book. Make of that what you will.
April 14, 2016
First off, I need to say thank you to BadPress Publishing for accepting my request to view this book on NetGalley, and to NetGalley for the service that they provide.
'Moonlands' is an urban fantasy book set between Earth and the Kingdoms of the Moon, a magical world where there are seven moons in the sky and thirteen islands lying beneath them. The Kingdoms of the Moon are being ruled by Elbegast, the King Under The Moon, but his daughter, and rightful heir to the throne, Ashkellion, is living in the mortal realm, so he sends a pack of highly trained assassins - the Wolfen - to eliminate his threat to the throne as quickly as possible.
We start the book following the Wolfen Alpha, Blackwater Blaze, as him and his pack flood the streets of London searching for their King's daughter. After most of the pack get destroyed by Targyn Fae, one of the heir's Wardens, Blackwater Blaze continues on his quest on his own, determined not to fail this mission.
Meanwhile, Ashkellion - or Ashley Hawthorne, as she's known at school - is living a normal life, completely oblivious to the fact that magical blood flows through her veins. After the death of her Aunt Elspeth, she inherits some strange items from the crazy old lady, and soon finds her whole life spinning out of control.
This is one of those books where the synopsis sounds amazing, and the idea is brilliant, but the writing just cannot pull it off. I was convinced that 'Moonlands' was a debut novel, because the writing style is clunky and ineffective, so I was mightly surprised when I looked on Steven Savile's Goodreads author profile and he has many, many works already published.
One of the things that really irritated me about the writing style was the constant use of repetition. I lost count of the amount of times Ashley worried about having an over-active imagination, or the amount of times the words 'oleaginous', 'ululating' and 'orrery' were used throughout (so much so that it really felt as though the author was clinging on to the words that he had discovered, rather than using them once to have an effective description - once something has been described as 'oleaginous' multiple times it really does dampen the image it produces). This was quite a long book (or it felt like it, despite the fact that it was under 300 pages) but it could have been drastically cut down if there wasn't as much repetition of facts that I was sure that any reader could recall.
Similarly, at multiple points throughout, the motives of the characters were overly explained.
Read the rest of my review here!
'Moonlands' is an urban fantasy book set between Earth and the Kingdoms of the Moon, a magical world where there are seven moons in the sky and thirteen islands lying beneath them. The Kingdoms of the Moon are being ruled by Elbegast, the King Under The Moon, but his daughter, and rightful heir to the throne, Ashkellion, is living in the mortal realm, so he sends a pack of highly trained assassins - the Wolfen - to eliminate his threat to the throne as quickly as possible.
We start the book following the Wolfen Alpha, Blackwater Blaze, as him and his pack flood the streets of London searching for their King's daughter. After most of the pack get destroyed by Targyn Fae, one of the heir's Wardens, Blackwater Blaze continues on his quest on his own, determined not to fail this mission.
Meanwhile, Ashkellion - or Ashley Hawthorne, as she's known at school - is living a normal life, completely oblivious to the fact that magical blood flows through her veins. After the death of her Aunt Elspeth, she inherits some strange items from the crazy old lady, and soon finds her whole life spinning out of control.
This is one of those books where the synopsis sounds amazing, and the idea is brilliant, but the writing just cannot pull it off. I was convinced that 'Moonlands' was a debut novel, because the writing style is clunky and ineffective, so I was mightly surprised when I looked on Steven Savile's Goodreads author profile and he has many, many works already published.
One of the things that really irritated me about the writing style was the constant use of repetition. I lost count of the amount of times Ashley worried about having an over-active imagination, or the amount of times the words 'oleaginous', 'ululating' and 'orrery' were used throughout (so much so that it really felt as though the author was clinging on to the words that he had discovered, rather than using them once to have an effective description - once something has been described as 'oleaginous' multiple times it really does dampen the image it produces). This was quite a long book (or it felt like it, despite the fact that it was under 300 pages) but it could have been drastically cut down if there wasn't as much repetition of facts that I was sure that any reader could recall.
Similarly, at multiple points throughout, the motives of the characters were overly explained.
Read the rest of my review here!
March 5, 2015
Oh wow. It´s been so long since I read YA fantasy, I forgot how amazing it is. I was browsing through Netgalley when I saw the cover of Moonlands. And I don´t mean the boring edition, but the beautiful one which has a beautiful girl with fiery red hair and a dress so freaking blue, it hurt my eyes. At first I was kinda hesitant to read it, but I couldn´t resist the cover. Oh well, let´s try being adventurous and bold, shall we?
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Lemme just say this, Moonlands did not disappoint. Its vivid, lifelike and rich style of writing won my heart over. I loved the language and the storyline, and could not get enough of it. Though at first reluctant, I was drawn into the story, and genuinely began to enjoy it.
However, I have to say, I think the story would have been much better if it was longer. The characters, while having the potential to be great, didn't have enough depth to them, and left me wanting. And, ohmigosh I can't believe I am saying this, but maybe a little less action? Normally I adore an action packed book, but with Moonlands, I had the feeling as if we skipped over the boring parts to get to the exciting ones. Though I will admit to being an action geek, I can admit that having those boring parts are necessary for me to understand the characters, and to connect to them.
What else can I say? There is a little bit of a romance in the book, but not enough for me. And it came kind of of out of nowhere. I mean, I knew that he was going to be her love interests, but the why of her feelings weren't explained enough. To me, they basically went from being each other's enemies to being lovers. Again, this could be improved with slightly more room for the storyline.
At the end of the day though, it was a good book, and I would certainly recommend it to anyone who likes some action and some royal family drama!
Full review posted on my blog, Panda's Paradise: http://panda-lovin.blogspot.nl/2015/0...
*An eARC was provided to me from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
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Lemme just say this, Moonlands did not disappoint. Its vivid, lifelike and rich style of writing won my heart over. I loved the language and the storyline, and could not get enough of it. Though at first reluctant, I was drawn into the story, and genuinely began to enjoy it.
However, I have to say, I think the story would have been much better if it was longer. The characters, while having the potential to be great, didn't have enough depth to them, and left me wanting. And, ohmigosh I can't believe I am saying this, but maybe a little less action? Normally I adore an action packed book, but with Moonlands, I had the feeling as if we skipped over the boring parts to get to the exciting ones. Though I will admit to being an action geek, I can admit that having those boring parts are necessary for me to understand the characters, and to connect to them.
What else can I say? There is a little bit of a romance in the book, but not enough for me. And it came kind of of out of nowhere. I mean, I knew that he was going to be her love interests, but the why of her feelings weren't explained enough. To me, they basically went from being each other's enemies to being lovers. Again, this could be improved with slightly more room for the storyline.
At the end of the day though, it was a good book, and I would certainly recommend it to anyone who likes some action and some royal family drama!
Full review posted on my blog, Panda's Paradise: http://panda-lovin.blogspot.nl/2015/0...
*An eARC was provided to me from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
April 23, 2015
I received a copy of this story from Net Galley. Yay books.
Spoilers ahead...
So I have some pro's and con's with this story.
I liked the idea of the story. It was really imaginative with the Moonlands and the seven different moons.
I did, however, have some problems. Most of it had to do with me looking too much into the story, but the other was the wording...
And I don't mean wording as in I'm an American and didn't understand the lingo. I've been to London, so I understood some of it. But that part wasn't an issue. While I was reading, there were a few places that I would skip over the words. At first, I thought I was just reading too fast, which I have a tendency to do, so I didn't pay much attention to it. Then I started to reread some of the lines because they just didn't make any sense.
There were words missing, or they were the wrong words. It seemed to get worse as I moved on. Maybe I just got a bad copy, because it seemed like whoever edited the story would have caught that. But, I made up words as I went along that made the sentence make sense, so not all was lost!
Something else I caught was probably not something a lot of other people caught, and the only reason I did was I studied psychology in college and it still has a somewhat part of my life now. There is a part where Ash is talking about left brain vs right brain and she says she more left brained because she creative. That's backwards. Left brain is more logical while the right brain is more creative. I had to look it up because I started to second guess myself.
Another question I have has to do with the moons. I know Ash was asking Blaze all kinds of questions, and this may have been something I skipped over. But, while Ash was talking about photosynthesis, I was more worried about the light. Where does the light from the moon come from? The light from our mom is reflected from sunlight. They don't have a sun.
I guess this is my left brain bringing out the more logical side in me while my right brain is saying "dude, they're magical moons!"
Yep, magical moons. That explains it all.
And this is where the spoiler comes in. Since Ash can't seem to catch a break. The Sickness leaves her biological father to travel to modern day London and inhabits her adoptive father. The hell is that about? Hopefully she has her handy googles ready and sees him for what he truly is.
Spoilers ahead...
So I have some pro's and con's with this story.
I liked the idea of the story. It was really imaginative with the Moonlands and the seven different moons.
I did, however, have some problems. Most of it had to do with me looking too much into the story, but the other was the wording...
And I don't mean wording as in I'm an American and didn't understand the lingo. I've been to London, so I understood some of it. But that part wasn't an issue. While I was reading, there were a few places that I would skip over the words. At first, I thought I was just reading too fast, which I have a tendency to do, so I didn't pay much attention to it. Then I started to reread some of the lines because they just didn't make any sense.
There were words missing, or they were the wrong words. It seemed to get worse as I moved on. Maybe I just got a bad copy, because it seemed like whoever edited the story would have caught that. But, I made up words as I went along that made the sentence make sense, so not all was lost!
Something else I caught was probably not something a lot of other people caught, and the only reason I did was I studied psychology in college and it still has a somewhat part of my life now. There is a part where Ash is talking about left brain vs right brain and she says she more left brained because she creative. That's backwards. Left brain is more logical while the right brain is more creative. I had to look it up because I started to second guess myself.
Another question I have has to do with the moons. I know Ash was asking Blaze all kinds of questions, and this may have been something I skipped over. But, while Ash was talking about photosynthesis, I was more worried about the light. Where does the light from the moon come from? The light from our mom is reflected from sunlight. They don't have a sun.
I guess this is my left brain bringing out the more logical side in me while my right brain is saying "dude, they're magical moons!"
Yep, magical moons. That explains it all.
And this is where the spoiler comes in. Since Ash can't seem to catch a break. The Sickness leaves her biological father to travel to modern day London and inhabits her adoptive father. The hell is that about? Hopefully she has her handy googles ready and sees him for what he truly is.
April 29, 2015
I was sent a copy of this book from BadPress, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. This is another book which I had heard nothing about and I was very interested in the premise, particularly as it was an urban fantasy book set in London, which I haven't really seen much of before.
Just because I only gave this book three and half stars does not mean I didn't enjoy it. I did, I really liked it and found it a fun read. However, I think I was at the wrong age to read this and nothing really leaped out to me to make me want to read more.
The story follows young Ashley Hawthorne who discovers that there are whole other worlds beyond that of ours and that she is actually a huge part of it. I felt like so much happened in one book and I often wanted it to slow down a bit to maybe flesh out the more two-dimensional characters and to explore more about what was going on. I'm not one hundred per cent sure if this is a stand alone novel but it kind of felt like one and I don't think I'll be picking up the rest if there are any more. That's not to say it was a bad book though.
Many of the characters were interesting and if you enjoy urban fantasy, werewolves and magic then you will definitely enjoy picking up this book. It was fast-paced, interesting and it did keep me turning the page to find out more. I especially loved the incredibly creepy creature that destroyed a person's senses (which, in description, reminded me of The Gentlemen from Buffy the Vampire Slayer) and I found it very eerie and sinister.
One thing that did make me a bit less enthused about the book was the Moonlands themselves, as they felt pretty flat and I couldn't imagine so much of it. There was very little description about the world which is also why I feel another book would be useful to explore that. I was so interested in this new place but there was so little about it that I feel like some of the book was missing.
I think if you're in your early-mid teens and enjoyed The Mortal Instruments then you would probably enjoy this book too. I know many people will enjoy the romance that develops in the book and the action towards the end was extremely well written. The author is incredibly talented but I just wish the world was a bit more fleshed out. Overall it was a very solid book but it just wasn't for me!
Just because I only gave this book three and half stars does not mean I didn't enjoy it. I did, I really liked it and found it a fun read. However, I think I was at the wrong age to read this and nothing really leaped out to me to make me want to read more.
The story follows young Ashley Hawthorne who discovers that there are whole other worlds beyond that of ours and that she is actually a huge part of it. I felt like so much happened in one book and I often wanted it to slow down a bit to maybe flesh out the more two-dimensional characters and to explore more about what was going on. I'm not one hundred per cent sure if this is a stand alone novel but it kind of felt like one and I don't think I'll be picking up the rest if there are any more. That's not to say it was a bad book though.
Many of the characters were interesting and if you enjoy urban fantasy, werewolves and magic then you will definitely enjoy picking up this book. It was fast-paced, interesting and it did keep me turning the page to find out more. I especially loved the incredibly creepy creature that destroyed a person's senses (which, in description, reminded me of The Gentlemen from Buffy the Vampire Slayer) and I found it very eerie and sinister.
One thing that did make me a bit less enthused about the book was the Moonlands themselves, as they felt pretty flat and I couldn't imagine so much of it. There was very little description about the world which is also why I feel another book would be useful to explore that. I was so interested in this new place but there was so little about it that I feel like some of the book was missing.
I think if you're in your early-mid teens and enjoyed The Mortal Instruments then you would probably enjoy this book too. I know many people will enjoy the romance that develops in the book and the action towards the end was extremely well written. The author is incredibly talented but I just wish the world was a bit more fleshed out. Overall it was a very solid book but it just wasn't for me!
March 27, 2015
**I received this copy from NetGalley in return for an honest Amazon review.**
This book vastly exceeded my expectations. It truly had a unique premise that really drew me in. Although it is apparent that Moonlands is a young adult novel, Savile writes in a manner that does not limit the age-range of his readers, and many adults would be able to find enjoyment in this book as well. The author’s writing is detailed and wonderfully descriptive. He brings the world that writes about to life, and with that is able to create intricate and believable worlds that draws his readers in.
The characters that Savile has brought to life are colorful, fascinating, and have distinctly vibrant personalities. He does a wonderful job capturing the essence of each character – particularly with Ashley. Ashley is a young girl who is attempting to fit into her high school life, when a new world of imaginative ideas and horrors are thrust upon her. Ashley has many endearing qualities that allow the reader to really connect with her and become personally interested in what is going on in her life and the story. The rest of the characters are also extremely entertaining, and bring a great deal of life to the story as well – however, I did feel that there could have been a bit more depth and development in the characters.
My only critique with Savile’s writing is his occasionally speedy narrative. For the most part, the author expands upon necessary topics and settings in a well-paced manner for readers to understand. However, there are also many times in which I felt the story was becoming just a bit too rushed, and there was no time for the reader to become acquainted with what was occurring before moving on to something new. There were definitely times when I feel that Savile should have eased up on the action and fleshed out the character or plot just a little bit more.
Overall, I would have to give this boo four stars. It was extremely well-written and entertaining, but it just didn’t quite have that ‘wow’ factor that earns five stars. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone with an interest in fantasy!
This book vastly exceeded my expectations. It truly had a unique premise that really drew me in. Although it is apparent that Moonlands is a young adult novel, Savile writes in a manner that does not limit the age-range of his readers, and many adults would be able to find enjoyment in this book as well. The author’s writing is detailed and wonderfully descriptive. He brings the world that writes about to life, and with that is able to create intricate and believable worlds that draws his readers in.
The characters that Savile has brought to life are colorful, fascinating, and have distinctly vibrant personalities. He does a wonderful job capturing the essence of each character – particularly with Ashley. Ashley is a young girl who is attempting to fit into her high school life, when a new world of imaginative ideas and horrors are thrust upon her. Ashley has many endearing qualities that allow the reader to really connect with her and become personally interested in what is going on in her life and the story. The rest of the characters are also extremely entertaining, and bring a great deal of life to the story as well – however, I did feel that there could have been a bit more depth and development in the characters.
My only critique with Savile’s writing is his occasionally speedy narrative. For the most part, the author expands upon necessary topics and settings in a well-paced manner for readers to understand. However, there are also many times in which I felt the story was becoming just a bit too rushed, and there was no time for the reader to become acquainted with what was occurring before moving on to something new. There were definitely times when I feel that Savile should have eased up on the action and fleshed out the character or plot just a little bit more.
Overall, I would have to give this boo four stars. It was extremely well-written and entertaining, but it just didn’t quite have that ‘wow’ factor that earns five stars. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone with an interest in fantasy!
October 24, 2015
Moonlands by Steven Savile is a young adult paranormal mystery/romance novel. Ashley Hawthorne looks like a regular 15 years old girl (almost sixteen), but she is very special. A group of loyal people took her from the Moonlands almost sixteen years ago for her safety. Now someone is out to kill Ashley (aka Ashkellion) before she comes of age at sixteen (and can try and claim the throne). They need to keep her safe.
Blackwater Blaze (and his pack) are sent through the moongate to London to kill Ashley and eliminate the threat to the king. His pack first encounters Targyn Fae (a warden who protects Ashley) and all of the pack is killed except Blackwater Blaze. At daylight Blaze transforms back into a man (because of the sun). He continues to watch Ashley hoping for an opportunity to kill her. Will the wardens be able to keep her safe? What happens when Ashley finds out her true heritage?
Moonlands was a very hard novel to get into to. It took me four tries to read this novel. Once I got about halfway through the book, I found it more interesting and engaging. I think part of the problem was too many characters. It is hard trying to keep track of all the people protecting Ashley, Ashley’s friends, and the characters in the Moonlands. There is also the two separate worlds and the magical elements (as well as the evil forces). There is a lot packed into one book (I just gave you a to-the-point overview). I give Moonlands 3 out of 5 stars. I found the romantic elements a little strange considering that Ashley was only fifteen (almost sixteen). She seems a little young for a to-die-for love (but kids grow up so fast these days). Overall, the premise is very interesting, likeable characters, and interesting setting.
I received a complimentary copy of Moonlands from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...
Blackwater Blaze (and his pack) are sent through the moongate to London to kill Ashley and eliminate the threat to the king. His pack first encounters Targyn Fae (a warden who protects Ashley) and all of the pack is killed except Blackwater Blaze. At daylight Blaze transforms back into a man (because of the sun). He continues to watch Ashley hoping for an opportunity to kill her. Will the wardens be able to keep her safe? What happens when Ashley finds out her true heritage?
Moonlands was a very hard novel to get into to. It took me four tries to read this novel. Once I got about halfway through the book, I found it more interesting and engaging. I think part of the problem was too many characters. It is hard trying to keep track of all the people protecting Ashley, Ashley’s friends, and the characters in the Moonlands. There is also the two separate worlds and the magical elements (as well as the evil forces). There is a lot packed into one book (I just gave you a to-the-point overview). I give Moonlands 3 out of 5 stars. I found the romantic elements a little strange considering that Ashley was only fifteen (almost sixteen). She seems a little young for a to-die-for love (but kids grow up so fast these days). Overall, the premise is very interesting, likeable characters, and interesting setting.
I received a complimentary copy of Moonlands from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...
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