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Moon Shadow
The world has turned upside down, and they are all falling through it—literally.
Ilis never wanted to be queen, but with Beriyth on the brink of ruin, she has no choice. Famine is spreading, her army is in shambles, the Moon hangs blood-red in the sky, and a nation of shapeshifters is closing in—ruthless, relentless, and wearing whatever forms they choose.
But war is no longer Ilis’s only nightmare.
A force unseen is catching people up into the sky, only to send them plummeting back down moments later. Whispers name it the Night Thief, a being that claims what it wants without mercy. Gravity is shifting, ancient magic unraveling, and time is running out.
If Ilis and her allies don’t uncover the truth soon, there may be nothing left to save.
The sky is hungry. And it is still not full.
____________________
Also by Rachel Shinnick
Book 1: Moon Thief
Book 2: Moon Shadow
Book 3: Coming Soon!
Look out for more books! Join the Future House Publishing newsletter for updates on the latest sci-fi/fantasy releases.
Ilis never wanted to be queen, but with Beriyth on the brink of ruin, she has no choice. Famine is spreading, her army is in shambles, the Moon hangs blood-red in the sky, and a nation of shapeshifters is closing in—ruthless, relentless, and wearing whatever forms they choose.
But war is no longer Ilis’s only nightmare.
A force unseen is catching people up into the sky, only to send them plummeting back down moments later. Whispers name it the Night Thief, a being that claims what it wants without mercy. Gravity is shifting, ancient magic unraveling, and time is running out.
If Ilis and her allies don’t uncover the truth soon, there may be nothing left to save.
The sky is hungry. And it is still not full.
____________________
Also by Rachel Shinnick
Book 1: Moon Thief
Book 2: Moon Shadow
Book 3: Coming Soon!
Look out for more books! Join the Future House Publishing newsletter for updates on the latest sci-fi/fantasy releases.
481 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 5, 2025
9 people are currently reading
9 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
December 2, 2025
After reading and falling in love with Moon Thief last year I of course couldn’t wait for the second book and now that I have finally read it I have one thing to say…
Rachel!! When I catch you Rachel!
All jokes aside though, I loved this so much! Seeing Ilis struggle to find the balance between her old life and new one was so beautifully executed.
Between the multiple POVs I never once found myself being pulled out of the story. I loved getting to see what was going on with all of my characters and for the first time I found miscommunication (or lack there of) to actually be such an integral part of our characters story. The narrative from both sides of the world are so similar due to a new natural phenomenon that is occurring but also so different as both sides don’t know if it’s happening to one another.
There were times when as the reader I found my self yelling at certain characters because I knew things they didn’t know and they had it all wrong. (Yes, I know they can’t hear me but that won’t stop me.)
I am of course looking forward to what comes next for our little group (and of course bugging Rachel until the release date, haha!)
Rachel!! When I catch you Rachel!
All jokes aside though, I loved this so much! Seeing Ilis struggle to find the balance between her old life and new one was so beautifully executed.
Between the multiple POVs I never once found myself being pulled out of the story. I loved getting to see what was going on with all of my characters and for the first time I found miscommunication (or lack there of) to actually be such an integral part of our characters story. The narrative from both sides of the world are so similar due to a new natural phenomenon that is occurring but also so different as both sides don’t know if it’s happening to one another.
There were times when as the reader I found my self yelling at certain characters because I knew things they didn’t know and they had it all wrong. (Yes, I know they can’t hear me but that won’t stop me.)
I am of course looking forward to what comes next for our little group (and of course bugging Rachel until the release date, haha!)
November 25, 2025
Imagine the struggle of being a pirate—plundering, sword fighting, and all—then suddenly being the chosen one to rule and care for a kingdom. While that would be certainly be too much pressure for me, our main character, pirate-queen, Ilis, has to worry about much more than just ruling a kingdom . . . . Can she handle it? Or, will she fall back to her old ways?
While I may be one of the world’s biggest grammar snobs, I would actually let my hypothetical, future children read this book! What we read as children greatly impacts the way we communicate, write, read, and think in the future! This book offers great, relatable characters who feel realistic in their growth and personality traits. My personal favorite is either Kat or Kanaph, but Ilis and Cogs are amazing characters too! I find Ilis’ actions in dealing with her family history, old love life, and the needs of her people to be fitting for her and applicable to a wide audience. Who here has never had old feelings for an ex pop up before? No one? That’s what I thought.
The book also presents strong themes of self-confidence, following one’s intuition, friendship, teamwork, mental health, and having empathy for other’s experiences.
Lastly, while I typically find mid-book point of view changes to be a lazy author hack, Shinnick uses point of view to tell two simultaneous stories in an easy-to-follow, story—enhancing kind of way! I rate this book a solid 8.4/10 for being well-written, having great themes, and having awesome characters!
November 12, 2025
After reading "Moon Thief," I couldn't wait to get my hands on the sequel. Now, after finishing "Moon Shadow," I'm positively jittering with anticipating. The last page reminded me of the final moments of "Back to the Future Part 2," where you HAVE to watch the next movie right away.
I wish I had a sliver of Rachel Shinnick's imagination. The world she's built is interesting, believable, and fun to walk around within. The narrative thrust of this sequel is compelling, Ilis and Malcolm are great, the action scenes kept me turning the pages... Shinnick even found a way to make dream sequences important to the plot! I really don't have any complaints! Seek out the first two books in this trilogy, and join me in eagerly awaiting the conclusion.
I wish I had a sliver of Rachel Shinnick's imagination. The world she's built is interesting, believable, and fun to walk around within. The narrative thrust of this sequel is compelling, Ilis and Malcolm are great, the action scenes kept me turning the pages... Shinnick even found a way to make dream sequences important to the plot! I really don't have any complaints! Seek out the first two books in this trilogy, and join me in eagerly awaiting the conclusion.
November 19, 2025
This book was absolutely incredible. With nearly everyone she holds dear on the opposite side of the world, Ilis embarks on a journey of selflessness and humility as she accepts the queenship of Beriyth and attempts to save her new people from a whole host of terrors wreaking havoc on the land. Along the way, she learns the value of wise counsel, and begins to understand how important it is to rely on the people you trust.
The writing itself is excellent. With the split perspective, each character had their own distinct voice, but I never felt drawn out of the story when the perspective shifted (which is a rare thing). I loved the pacing of it as well. The beginning is slow and intentional as it sets up the emotional context of the story, but the momentum steadily builds until the final chapters are hitting you with breakneck speed that make the book impossible to put down.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fantasy novel full of heart, magic, lore, high stakes, beautiful imagery, and a FMC whose internal conflict is more complex than a survival drive or a love triangle. Ilis is an incredible, realistic (and yet still epic) main character, and her story is nothing short of a masterpiece.
The writing itself is excellent. With the split perspective, each character had their own distinct voice, but I never felt drawn out of the story when the perspective shifted (which is a rare thing). I loved the pacing of it as well. The beginning is slow and intentional as it sets up the emotional context of the story, but the momentum steadily builds until the final chapters are hitting you with breakneck speed that make the book impossible to put down.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fantasy novel full of heart, magic, lore, high stakes, beautiful imagery, and a FMC whose internal conflict is more complex than a survival drive or a love triangle. Ilis is an incredible, realistic (and yet still epic) main character, and her story is nothing short of a masterpiece.
December 13, 2025
Shinnick’s sophomore YA fantasy, Moon Shadow, deepens the luminous world first introduced in Moon Thief, carrying readers further into a realm still trembling from imbalance and hard-won hope. In this sweeping continuation, the consequences of restoring the Moon ripple outward, revealing that salvation often demands more than courage—it demands surrender, wisdom, and sacrifice.
Ilis returns not merely as a pirate shaped by survival, but as a leader burdened by responsibility and unfinished reckonings. As new threats rise and old wounds resurface, she must navigate the fragile tension between freedom and duty. Shinnick expands her already rich world-building with greater emotional depth, weaving ancient lore and deeply human relationships into a narrative that feels both epic and intimate.
Moon Shadow solidifies Shinnick’s voice as one of confidence and vision within YA fantasy. With layered characters, resonant themes, and a story that lingers long after the final page, this sequel shines not only as a continuation, but as a bold step forward—proof that even restored light casts long, meaningful shadows.
The sky is hungry. And it is still not full.
Ilis returns not merely as a pirate shaped by survival, but as a leader burdened by responsibility and unfinished reckonings. As new threats rise and old wounds resurface, she must navigate the fragile tension between freedom and duty. Shinnick expands her already rich world-building with greater emotional depth, weaving ancient lore and deeply human relationships into a narrative that feels both epic and intimate.
Moon Shadow solidifies Shinnick’s voice as one of confidence and vision within YA fantasy. With layered characters, resonant themes, and a story that lingers long after the final page, this sequel shines not only as a continuation, but as a bold step forward—proof that even restored light casts long, meaningful shadows.
The sky is hungry. And it is still not full.
November 23, 2025
Gravity is no longer working. After the moon takes its place in the sky again, it doesn’t seem to want to cooperate. Roof shingles, mountain rocks, and birds are the first things to be lifted from the ground and then dropped back to the earth. Then the tides get lower, and the danger turns very real for everyone. And Ilis has to rule a kingdom at the same time!
I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone that loves Ilis and her gang of classmates, royals, and pirates. And, of course, a good love story. And a cliffhanger! Can’t wait for the next book to come out!
I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone that loves Ilis and her gang of classmates, royals, and pirates. And, of course, a good love story. And a cliffhanger! Can’t wait for the next book to come out!
December 4, 2025
What an adventure! Ilis’ journey of having her heart split on two different sides of the world was a captivating experience. New and old characters created a whimsical dynamic for the new queen of the under. I loved the split perspective throughout this read which gave rich dialogue throughout this ride, R.Shinnicks world building and story telling continue to amaze me on this beautiful journey she takes you on! Since “Moon Thief” I couldn’t wait for what’s next and here I am again saying “I can’t wait for what’s next” but for the time being I will soak up “Moon Shadow” for all its glory.
November 17, 2025
What an adventure!
This took me on one wild ride and I enjoyed every single bit.
Thank you Rachel for allowing me to arc read this for you. An absolute privilege.
The story telling and character and world development was fast paced and easy to follow. The characters were enjoyable and loveable and I wanted more with each page.
Rachel’s writing is immersive and entertaining to keep you invested throughout.
Highly recommend if you love a world with dragons and pirates!
This took me on one wild ride and I enjoyed every single bit.
Thank you Rachel for allowing me to arc read this for you. An absolute privilege.
The story telling and character and world development was fast paced and easy to follow. The characters were enjoyable and loveable and I wanted more with each page.
Rachel’s writing is immersive and entertaining to keep you invested throughout.
Highly recommend if you love a world with dragons and pirates!
December 1, 2025
This book is gorgeously written and so compelling, with amazing storytelling and hilarious, tender characters, epic battles, and fascinating world building. The story is simultaneously endearing and deeply courageous, full of complex characters reckoning with their own minds in a thrilling land of adventure, soft romance, pirates, fantastical beasts, and, of course, a new queen. READ THIS BOOK!!! I genuinely loved it, and I adore Ilis so much.
November 22, 2025
I considered giving this four stars because it wasn’t long enough! I want more!!! Such a good read, a thrilling adventure set in such a rich environment full of intriguing characters. Highly recommend!
December 6, 2025
Have just started Moon Shadow and love the symbolism and depth of story I am already reading. Can’t wait to finish it and see where this next adventure takes Ilis and all those she loves, and is responsible for.
November 29, 2025
I LOVE LOVE THIS BOOK. WHY IS IT BETTER THAN THE FURST ONE LIKE GIRL? THE CHARACTERS AND THE ENDING LITERALLY BROKE ME. AHHHHHHHH IM LITERALLY CRYING RN
December 5, 2025
the world of moon thief gets bigger, bolder, more dangerous, and more enjoyable with every chapter
December 25, 2025
Absolutely fantastic! Just keeps getting better and better.
This picks up right where Moon Thief leaves off. Lilia is now the queen of Beriyth, a reluctant queen, that doesn’t feel like she’s good enough. Her character arc is beautifully written and we see her struggle with her new role and all she left behind. Can she still be a pirate AND a Queen?
Now that the Moon is back where it belongs, things still aren’t right. The moon is blood red and she has no idea what that means. While trying to heal her new Kingdom, a new threat makes an entrance and she decides to face her heartache and get her crew back together for one final heist.
If you’re looking for:
* YA Fantasy
* Unique plot and world
* Dragon bond
* Found family
* Shapeshifters
* Plot twists
* Pirates
* Mermaids
* Leviathan island! (yes exactly!)
* Hiest
Then this series has all the ingredients for an amazing adventure!
This picks up right where Moon Thief leaves off. Lilia is now the queen of Beriyth, a reluctant queen, that doesn’t feel like she’s good enough. Her character arc is beautifully written and we see her struggle with her new role and all she left behind. Can she still be a pirate AND a Queen?
Now that the Moon is back where it belongs, things still aren’t right. The moon is blood red and she has no idea what that means. While trying to heal her new Kingdom, a new threat makes an entrance and she decides to face her heartache and get her crew back together for one final heist.
If you’re looking for:
* YA Fantasy
* Unique plot and world
* Dragon bond
* Found family
* Shapeshifters
* Plot twists
* Pirates
* Mermaids
* Leviathan island! (yes exactly!)
* Hiest
Then this series has all the ingredients for an amazing adventure!
December 1, 2025
If you want a fantasy read with lots of incredibly creative creatures, hilarious characters, and tons of hope, Ilis and the gang is where its at! This series is so much fun to read! A pirate thief FMC taking on the world to protect those she loves, a hunky Prince determined to win her over, and an unexpected group of friends devoted to help save the world along the way, SIGN ME UP! This was an easy 5Star read that gave me all the feels I love in a book! I wasn't sure how Rachel was going to top Moon Thief, but this second installment in the series did exactly that! She has cemented herself as an auto-buy author with her creativity and beautiful storytelling! Well done girl!!!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews