What do you think?
Rate this book
The Hightower Trilogy #1
Moonlit
Tanzy Hightower is not crazy. At least that’s what she tells herself. She also tells herself that the shadows in the woods aren’t living, murderous beings. Only one of these things can be true. On the third anniversary of her father’s death, Tanzy revisits the woods and the shadows that took him. She quickly realizes they now have their sights set on her. Neither Tanzy nor life as she knows it escapes them unchanged.
Two strangers seem too willing to help her navigate her new reality: Vanessa Andrews, a doctor’s trophy wife with a southern drawl and a history Tanzy can appreciate, and Lucas, a quiet, scarred man with timing that borders on either perfect or suspect. But Tanzy has secrets of her own. Desperate for answers and revenge, Tanzy must put her faith in their hands as her past comes calling, and the shadows close in.
Will her choices shed light on the shadows of her past, or will they bring forth the darkness within her?
Two strangers seem too willing to help her navigate her new reality: Vanessa Andrews, a doctor’s trophy wife with a southern drawl and a history Tanzy can appreciate, and Lucas, a quiet, scarred man with timing that borders on either perfect or suspect. But Tanzy has secrets of her own. Desperate for answers and revenge, Tanzy must put her faith in their hands as her past comes calling, and the shadows close in.
Will her choices shed light on the shadows of her past, or will they bring forth the darkness within her?
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 24, 2013
40 people are currently reading
2213 people want to read
About the author
Jadie Jones
5 books165 followersSouthern gal. Momma. PNW transplant. Especially fond of family, sunlight, and cookie dough. Writing fantasy under pen name Jadie Jones. Publishing southern gothic thrillers under real name Casey Dunn. (SILENCE ON COLD RIVER - Pegasus Crime - 2020.)
I wrote my first book in seventh grade, filling one hundred and four pages of a black and white Mead notebook. Back then I lived for two things: horses and R.L. Stine books. Fast forward nearly twenty years, and I work with horses and hoard books like most women my age collect shoes. Its amazing how much changes... and how much stays the same.
The dream of publishing a novel has hitch-hiked with me down every other path I've taken (and there have been many.) Waitress, farm manager, road manager, bank teller, speech writer, retail, and more. But that need - the call from within to bring pen to paper - refused to quiet. Finally, in 2009, I sat down, pulled out a brand new notebook, and once again let the pictures in my head become words on paper.
Then I got married. Moved. Life sped up the way that it does, claiming each day faster than the last. I became a mother, and my manuscript reverted to something I would do one day. Thankfully, babies take naps, and there's only so much daytime television a person can stomach. And Tanzy, that main character of mine, was shouting at me from my office: "Hellooo? We aren't done yet, Jadie." So I pulled her out. I read our story. I tore it to pieces. And then I put it back together again.
As a child, my grandfather would sit me in his lap and weave tales about the Cherokee nation, and a girl who belonged with horses. His words painted a whole new world, and my mind would take flight. My hope - my dream - is that Tanzy's journey does the same for you.
So where does "Jadie Jones" come from? It's a pen name I created to honor two fantastic women who didn't get the chance to live out their professional dreams. First, my grandmother - a mother of four during post World War II America, who wanted to be a journalist so bad that even now when she talks about it, her blue eyes mist and she lifts her chin in silent speculation. And second, a dear friend's mother who left this world entirely too soon. To Judy Dawn and Shirley Jones, Jadie Jones is for you. It's been a pleasure getting to know her.
Keep current on my southern gothic thriller work: https://www.rittlit.com/authors/?auth...
I wrote my first book in seventh grade, filling one hundred and four pages of a black and white Mead notebook. Back then I lived for two things: horses and R.L. Stine books. Fast forward nearly twenty years, and I work with horses and hoard books like most women my age collect shoes. Its amazing how much changes... and how much stays the same.
The dream of publishing a novel has hitch-hiked with me down every other path I've taken (and there have been many.) Waitress, farm manager, road manager, bank teller, speech writer, retail, and more. But that need - the call from within to bring pen to paper - refused to quiet. Finally, in 2009, I sat down, pulled out a brand new notebook, and once again let the pictures in my head become words on paper.
Then I got married. Moved. Life sped up the way that it does, claiming each day faster than the last. I became a mother, and my manuscript reverted to something I would do one day. Thankfully, babies take naps, and there's only so much daytime television a person can stomach. And Tanzy, that main character of mine, was shouting at me from my office: "Hellooo? We aren't done yet, Jadie." So I pulled her out. I read our story. I tore it to pieces. And then I put it back together again.
As a child, my grandfather would sit me in his lap and weave tales about the Cherokee nation, and a girl who belonged with horses. His words painted a whole new world, and my mind would take flight. My hope - my dream - is that Tanzy's journey does the same for you.
So where does "Jadie Jones" come from? It's a pen name I created to honor two fantastic women who didn't get the chance to live out their professional dreams. First, my grandmother - a mother of four during post World War II America, who wanted to be a journalist so bad that even now when she talks about it, her blue eyes mist and she lifts her chin in silent speculation. And second, a dear friend's mother who left this world entirely too soon. To Judy Dawn and Shirley Jones, Jadie Jones is for you. It's been a pleasure getting to know her.
Keep current on my southern gothic thriller work: https://www.rittlit.com/authors/?auth...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
March 22, 2013
I don't normally read paranormal but I was excited to get my hands on this one. I love books with horses. Usually when I read a novel, my main focus is on the characters, writing style and plot, but then there are times when the language stands out just as much. The best of both worlds. When I read the first paragraph of Moonlit, I knew that I was going to lose myself not only in the story but in the language as well:
"Virginia's trees look like they're burning. Most of them blaze crimson or gold, but some still have a chokehold on their green. I wish they'd give it up already. Leaves are more beautiful when they're dying."
And so Moonlit begins. From here the story rolls from one twist to another with many vivid characters whose motives are hard to predict. I found myself being suspicious of everyone, wanting to tell Tanzy to be very careful. The deeper I fell into the plot, the more questions kept rising to the surface. But not to worry, all of my questions were answered. Appropriate for all ages, if you love paranormal fantasy mixed with suspense, mystery and other-worldly romance, you'll love this novel!
And the best part, the story continues :)
"Virginia's trees look like they're burning. Most of them blaze crimson or gold, but some still have a chokehold on their green. I wish they'd give it up already. Leaves are more beautiful when they're dying."
And so Moonlit begins. From here the story rolls from one twist to another with many vivid characters whose motives are hard to predict. I found myself being suspicious of everyone, wanting to tell Tanzy to be very careful. The deeper I fell into the plot, the more questions kept rising to the surface. But not to worry, all of my questions were answered. Appropriate for all ages, if you love paranormal fantasy mixed with suspense, mystery and other-worldly romance, you'll love this novel!
And the best part, the story continues :)
September 3, 2015
ASDFGHJKL—that pretty much sums up my feelings. I was freaking out for most of the book because, to quote Samwise Gamgee, how could it turn out happy? Well, it wasn’t all sunshine and roses, but I found this to be a most satisfactory and awesome ending to a fantastic series. I am sad to bid Lucas and Tanzy and Jayce and Moonlit farewell, but I am not so cruel as to wish more trouble upon them. No, not that cruel at all.
The plot:
Twisty. The plot was twisty. I kept getting hit by first this shock then that shock. I could never quite predict what was happening and I loved it. This was plotting on the level of Brandon Sanderson and I cannot get over the complexity and planning that must have gone into this—just plain awesome.
The characters:
I’m not sure I can talk about Tanzy without talking about Lucas and I can’t talk about the two of them without rampant fangirling. You should not make the mistake that assuming this story is a romance, it is far more about the adventure, I think. However, my little fangirl heart wants what it wants. I will ship them to the day I die.
For the first time ever, we see into the minds and thoughts of characters besides Tanzy. We get a peek into Jayce, Hope, Lucas, even Vanessa.
There were many twists, as I said, but perhaps the greatest one of all was when I found myself sympathizing with Vanessa. Yes, VANESSA. That was probably the last thing I ever saw coming, seconded only to love-hating Asher by the end. The twist about those two was the last thing I expected and I can do nothing but laud the author for how well she set that up.
A fabulous conclusion to a masterfully written trilogy and when our dear Ms. Jones comes out with her next book, I will fight anyone and everyone for the first spot in line.
The plot:
Twisty. The plot was twisty. I kept getting hit by first this shock then that shock. I could never quite predict what was happening and I loved it. This was plotting on the level of Brandon Sanderson and I cannot get over the complexity and planning that must have gone into this—just plain awesome.
The characters:
I’m not sure I can talk about Tanzy without talking about Lucas and I can’t talk about the two of them without rampant fangirling. You should not make the mistake that assuming this story is a romance, it is far more about the adventure, I think. However, my little fangirl heart wants what it wants. I will ship them to the day I die.
For the first time ever, we see into the minds and thoughts of characters besides Tanzy. We get a peek into Jayce, Hope, Lucas, even Vanessa.
There were many twists, as I said, but perhaps the greatest one of all was when I found myself sympathizing with Vanessa. Yes, VANESSA. That was probably the last thing I ever saw coming, seconded only to love-hating Asher by the end. The twist about those two was the last thing I expected and I can do nothing but laud the author for how well she set that up.
A fabulous conclusion to a masterfully written trilogy and when our dear Ms. Jones comes out with her next book, I will fight anyone and everyone for the first spot in line.
March 22, 2013
This is a fantastic book. The author throws in twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book. It's fast moving and almost impossible to put down. I cannot wait to see where Ms. Jones is going to lead us on Tanzy's continued journey.
March 21, 2013
I absolutely loved this book! You really feel like you're right there with Tanzy with everything she experiences. And she experiences some pretty amazing things. I can't wait to see what happens next.
August 2, 2013
I have another addition for my Shelf of Awesome! I downloaded this awhile ago, but like so many other Kindle books, it was allowed to sit neglected and ignored, gathering digital dust on my electronic shelves. Then I finally opened it when I was on the train and bored out of my mind, thinking I would “just start it,” but forty minutes later, I was nearly 20% in and had to pry myself from the screen. I had high hopes when I started for magic, mystery, a teen heroine, hints of romance, and best of all—horses! Ms. Jones delivered all of that mixed into a plot with twists, turns, and a villain who deserves to be in the Dark Lord Hall of Fame alongside Voldemort, Sauron, and Mordred.
The plot:
When I began Moonlit, I had no clue it was a reincarnation story. I admit my experience with reincarnation plots is limited, but I very much liked the way this one was handled. There were parts that I wanted to be condensed or shortened, but, I’ll be truthful, those were either because my phobia of hospitals was rearing its head or I wanted to see more of Lucas (I’ll explain who he is in a minute). Overall, the plot flows smoothly quickly, and has one or two good hairpin turns at the end. There was one part in particular that I thought should have been expanded and elaborated more, but the lack of detail turned out to be a part of the storyline. The author did an excellent job of subtly hinting at the final twist so that it didn’t feel contrived and ends with a cliffhanger that is driving me insane.
The characters:
I really liked the MC, Tanzy Hightower. I sympathized with the problems she was going through even before all the supernatural elements popped up in her life. She came across as a little lost, but stronger than she gave herself credit for and good at the core. There is this one part (I won’t tell you where it is for fear of spoilers) where I wanted to slap Tanzy and shake her and scream “YOU BLOODY MORON!!!” but I still became quite fond of her.
Now let me tell you about Lucas. Lucas is an immortal who has been around since the dawn of time, is an ex-villain, and has been in love with Tanzy for over a thousand years. We know that Lucas has a dark side and is capable of true evil, but when he was around Tanzy or Spera (Tanzy’s past incarnation), I wanted to say “aww” and sigh with girlish fancy. The words “so sweet” come to mind and it seems I have a fetish for overtly protective romantic interests with unpleasant pasts who are centuries (in this case millennia) old. There was one point when I feared that we would be faced with a love triangle, but my worries were unfounded and everything came together.
Our primary villain is Asher, also an immortal like Lucas. I seem to be coming across a lot of antiheroes with “A” names—Atticus, Agamemnon, Arobynn—anyway, Asher is a sick, twisted piece of work and I would not be overly opposed to jubilatory dancing atop his grave should he snuff it. He is devious and cunning, though at one point I did wonder why he would go through the trouble of doing legwork himself when he has legions of minions at his beck and call. I confess I have my fingers crossed that he will meet his end soon.
That review ended up being a lot longer than I intended, but I am entitled to occasional fangirling. I am anxiously anticipating the release of the next installment and after reading the author’s updates on her progress with the sequel, I’m both panicked and elated. I shall live in torturous agony awaiting the next book, but in the interim, I advise everyone who likes action, magic, romance, and horses to pick this up!
The plot:
When I began Moonlit, I had no clue it was a reincarnation story. I admit my experience with reincarnation plots is limited, but I very much liked the way this one was handled. There were parts that I wanted to be condensed or shortened, but, I’ll be truthful, those were either because my phobia of hospitals was rearing its head or I wanted to see more of Lucas (I’ll explain who he is in a minute). Overall, the plot flows smoothly quickly, and has one or two good hairpin turns at the end. There was one part in particular that I thought should have been expanded and elaborated more, but the lack of detail turned out to be a part of the storyline. The author did an excellent job of subtly hinting at the final twist so that it didn’t feel contrived and ends with a cliffhanger that is driving me insane.
The characters:
I really liked the MC, Tanzy Hightower. I sympathized with the problems she was going through even before all the supernatural elements popped up in her life. She came across as a little lost, but stronger than she gave herself credit for and good at the core. There is this one part (I won’t tell you where it is for fear of spoilers) where I wanted to slap Tanzy and shake her and scream “YOU BLOODY MORON!!!” but I still became quite fond of her.
Now let me tell you about Lucas. Lucas is an immortal who has been around since the dawn of time, is an ex-villain, and has been in love with Tanzy for over a thousand years. We know that Lucas has a dark side and is capable of true evil, but when he was around Tanzy or Spera (Tanzy’s past incarnation), I wanted to say “aww” and sigh with girlish fancy. The words “so sweet” come to mind and it seems I have a fetish for overtly protective romantic interests with unpleasant pasts who are centuries (in this case millennia) old. There was one point when I feared that we would be faced with a love triangle, but my worries were unfounded and everything came together.
Our primary villain is Asher, also an immortal like Lucas. I seem to be coming across a lot of antiheroes with “A” names—Atticus, Agamemnon, Arobynn—anyway, Asher is a sick, twisted piece of work and I would not be overly opposed to jubilatory dancing atop his grave should he snuff it. He is devious and cunning, though at one point I did wonder why he would go through the trouble of doing legwork himself when he has legions of minions at his beck and call. I confess I have my fingers crossed that he will meet his end soon.
That review ended up being a lot longer than I intended, but I am entitled to occasional fangirling. I am anxiously anticipating the release of the next installment and after reading the author’s updates on her progress with the sequel, I’m both panicked and elated. I shall live in torturous agony awaiting the next book, but in the interim, I advise everyone who likes action, magic, romance, and horses to pick this up!
April 17, 2013
I really wanted to love this book, but if I am being honest, I didn't love it. The author is super sweet and this was a good first novel.
I think the concept is a good one, and overall, the main character's development was great. I liked the main character a lot. There seems to be more to her under the surface than what is on the page. I would love to read more about it within the story.
You can see the author's writing potential and where it could lead. I think the reason I only liked Moonlit instead of loving it, was editing fail. I think that the book editors needed to do a better job. The raw material was there, but the way parts of it were pieced together needed some help. There are parts of the story that seem to skip a bit and others where moments go on too long. There are phrases that are repeated a bit too much. If an editor was paying a bit more attention, that would not have happened.
As this is the first in a trilogy, I am expecting some good things for the next installment. I am excited to see where Jadie Jones' writing will go, because the talent is there.
I think the concept is a good one, and overall, the main character's development was great. I liked the main character a lot. There seems to be more to her under the surface than what is on the page. I would love to read more about it within the story.
You can see the author's writing potential and where it could lead. I think the reason I only liked Moonlit instead of loving it, was editing fail. I think that the book editors needed to do a better job. The raw material was there, but the way parts of it were pieced together needed some help. There are parts of the story that seem to skip a bit and others where moments go on too long. There are phrases that are repeated a bit too much. If an editor was paying a bit more attention, that would not have happened.
As this is the first in a trilogy, I am expecting some good things for the next installment. I am excited to see where Jadie Jones' writing will go, because the talent is there.
October 25, 2018
As a child, my grandfather would sit me in his lap and weave tales about the Cherokee nation, and a girl who belonged with horses. His words painted a whole new world, and my mind would take flight. My goal in crafting Tanzy's story, one that travels across the globe and a thousand years into the past, was to do the same for every reader who picks up this book.
I am honored by anyone who chooses to read and/or review this book, and I welcome any feedback.
www.JadieJones.com
I am honored by anyone who chooses to read and/or review this book, and I welcome any feedback.
www.JadieJones.com
March 22, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! And like my rating says, I did think it was amazing :) . I expected for there to be a story of a young woman and the trials of life. Instead I was taken on an adventure that crossed time and kept me enthralled until the very last page! I am sincerely hoping there is a sequel? Please!? :)
March 23, 2013
Can't wait to read this highly anticipated debut from a rising star.
Just finished this book. It was everything I hoped it would be (intrigue with just the right amount of action). I had to take a sick day at work because I could not put it down! Can't wait to see what happens with Tanzy next!
Just finished this book. It was everything I hoped it would be (intrigue with just the right amount of action). I had to take a sick day at work because I could not put it down! Can't wait to see what happens with Tanzy next!
May 9, 2018
Okay, whaaaat? What a ride! (She says a bit cheekily) That was amazing, but you can’t just leave me hanging there…I’m in limbo… wondering what’s going to happen next? I can’t wait to read more!!
I wasn’t really sure what to expect with this book, but I was most definitely pleasantly surprised. At first when I saw the cover with the horse (even though it is a pretty cover) I kind of sighed inwardly, thinking it was going to be too typically the girl and her horse and drama like one of those horse movies.(Just not my cup of tea really, even though I do actually like horses)
Well….yeah, there is a girl and her horse and drama….AND heartache and carnage and an unseen world and an unseen king and betrayal and “magic”. It also has some great unique concepts and all in all it made this book such a thrilling experience.
The book is set in three parts. Tanzy is our 18year old main character. The first part is basically Tanzy’s “normal” life happening, but you find yourself sitting on the edge of your seat with anticipation of what’s to come…bracing yourself. For what exactly…you are not sure. There is a glimpse here and there suggestion that something larger is at play.
Part two is when it starts getting real…and ‘things’ start hitting the fan. About a third in , there was this moment where I was just like…wait….what the hell just happened? Well...there’s a few of those! As the story unfolds I often found it difficult to understand the whole concept/what was being explained…in the same way that Tanzy would have been confused while being confronted with the unseen world. (Which is kinda cool, experiencing what the main character would experience....what I’m trying to say is that we don’t have MORE information than Tanzy) I also had a sense of trepidation on behalf of Tanzy and I felt so untrusting of every new person entering her life…skip a few sentences ahead and I quote:
““I don’t know who to trust,” I admit aloud…
“Trust no one.” She says, leaning forward.”
Dum dum dummmmm…
Part three is mostly a kind off ‘through the looking glass’ experience and everything falls into place a bit more..understanding begins to dawn and you get to experience a whole new world. (For me personally I struggled a bit to keep up with the ‘scene’ changes and descriptions of what everything looks like…however, it is needed…it just slowed down my reading a tad bit.)
So many feelings…but I can’t go in to more detail as I don’t want to spoil anything. Tanzy was a great character to follow and I enjoyed her growth and determination. The story intrigued me throughout the whole book and kept me reading. I loved the new concept behind the story and I’m excited to follow the rest of this series.
I was given this e-book by Parliament publishers in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn’t really sure what to expect with this book, but I was most definitely pleasantly surprised. At first when I saw the cover with the horse (even though it is a pretty cover) I kind of sighed inwardly, thinking it was going to be too typically the girl and her horse and drama like one of those horse movies.(Just not my cup of tea really, even though I do actually like horses)
Well….yeah, there is a girl and her horse and drama….AND heartache and carnage and an unseen world and an unseen king and betrayal and “magic”. It also has some great unique concepts and all in all it made this book such a thrilling experience.
The book is set in three parts. Tanzy is our 18year old main character. The first part is basically Tanzy’s “normal” life happening, but you find yourself sitting on the edge of your seat with anticipation of what’s to come…bracing yourself. For what exactly…you are not sure. There is a glimpse here and there suggestion that something larger is at play.
Part two is when it starts getting real…and ‘things’ start hitting the fan. About a third in , there was this moment where I was just like…wait….what the hell just happened? Well...there’s a few of those! As the story unfolds I often found it difficult to understand the whole concept/what was being explained…in the same way that Tanzy would have been confused while being confronted with the unseen world. (Which is kinda cool, experiencing what the main character would experience....what I’m trying to say is that we don’t have MORE information than Tanzy) I also had a sense of trepidation on behalf of Tanzy and I felt so untrusting of every new person entering her life…skip a few sentences ahead and I quote:
““I don’t know who to trust,” I admit aloud…
“Trust no one.” She says, leaning forward.”
Dum dum dummmmm…
Part three is mostly a kind off ‘through the looking glass’ experience and everything falls into place a bit more..understanding begins to dawn and you get to experience a whole new world. (For me personally I struggled a bit to keep up with the ‘scene’ changes and descriptions of what everything looks like…however, it is needed…it just slowed down my reading a tad bit.)
So many feelings…but I can’t go in to more detail as I don’t want to spoil anything. Tanzy was a great character to follow and I enjoyed her growth and determination. The story intrigued me throughout the whole book and kept me reading. I loved the new concept behind the story and I’m excited to follow the rest of this series.
I was given this e-book by Parliament publishers in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2019
Thank you to Parliament press for the copy for review! 3.7/5 🌟
What if there was a world parallel to ours. Like two plays side by side on a stage, and this other world wants something from us.
Tanzey Wildwood (loving the name) is doing her normal birthday traditions of going with her dad to their horse pasture, and farm, and riding with him. Then disaster strikes. She sees something in the form of a dark shadow and the next thing she knows her dad and his horse are gone. Over the edge and in the river, but a day later only the horse is found. There’s something off about her mother and you just know she knows of this parallel world, where Tanzey’s father is. Tanzey doesn’t know this.
We watch these characters struggle through different forms of grief and lies to keep this unseen world just as it’s named. Tanzey finds herself on a mission to discover.
For a first novel, the concept wasn’t bad, but the style of writing in my opinion dragged. Sadly!
I wasn’t sure what to expect but there were some surprises in the plot. It definitely ended leaving open ended questions and I hope the second book delves more into a formulated storyline and the mission. I’d also like to add that the cover to this book is stunning and is ultimately what caught my eye!
What if there was a world parallel to ours. Like two plays side by side on a stage, and this other world wants something from us.
Tanzey Wildwood (loving the name) is doing her normal birthday traditions of going with her dad to their horse pasture, and farm, and riding with him. Then disaster strikes. She sees something in the form of a dark shadow and the next thing she knows her dad and his horse are gone. Over the edge and in the river, but a day later only the horse is found. There’s something off about her mother and you just know she knows of this parallel world, where Tanzey’s father is. Tanzey doesn’t know this.
We watch these characters struggle through different forms of grief and lies to keep this unseen world just as it’s named. Tanzey finds herself on a mission to discover.
For a first novel, the concept wasn’t bad, but the style of writing in my opinion dragged. Sadly!
I wasn’t sure what to expect but there were some surprises in the plot. It definitely ended leaving open ended questions and I hope the second book delves more into a formulated storyline and the mission. I’d also like to add that the cover to this book is stunning and is ultimately what caught my eye!
October 7, 2017
I received an e-copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not sure what I was expecting going into this book but it certainly was not this. I picked up my Kindle to try out the first few chapters and ended up finishing the whole book. The story sucked me in completely and I greatly enjoyed Tanzy's character as well as the the others.
I especially liked the world-building as well as the descriptions of the Unseen World. Normally when I read YA fantasy, it feels like I've read parts of it before in other books but the fantasy aspect in this book was refreshing and I don't recall reading something too similar to it in a long time.
I enjoyed the journey this book took me on and although I guessed a couple of the plot reveals beforehand they weren't overtly obvious and enjoyable nonetheless. I will definitely be picking up the sequel when it comes out - I'm not quite done with Tanzy and the Unseen World just yet!
I'm not sure what I was expecting going into this book but it certainly was not this. I picked up my Kindle to try out the first few chapters and ended up finishing the whole book. The story sucked me in completely and I greatly enjoyed Tanzy's character as well as the the others.
I especially liked the world-building as well as the descriptions of the Unseen World. Normally when I read YA fantasy, it feels like I've read parts of it before in other books but the fantasy aspect in this book was refreshing and I don't recall reading something too similar to it in a long time.
I enjoyed the journey this book took me on and although I guessed a couple of the plot reveals beforehand they weren't overtly obvious and enjoyable nonetheless. I will definitely be picking up the sequel when it comes out - I'm not quite done with Tanzy and the Unseen World just yet!
June 7, 2013
Horses, mysterious characters and fiendish creatures of the shadows! I had to read Moonlit.
Tanzy moved to Wildwood Farm when she was 8 years old. It’s like a dream come true for a young girl with a passion for all things horses.
She loved it, but now, ten years later, the place she calls home is a living hell.
It’s been a year since her father died. She’s watched her loving mother spiral downward, drowning in a bottle of vodka, and blaming her.
Today is Tanzy’s birthday. No big deal for her until she hears a terrifying cry from the woods and receives a phone call from a strange man telling her – “Be careful today… It’s an important day.” His voice is thick with urgency. “I need you to be careful. I need you…”
Not long after, there is an incident at the stables, a black, blurry something emerges from the woods and stalks her. Her horse startles and crashes into a gate. Her and the horse are a bit scraped up but okay.
It makes her remember the strange phone call.
It’s been a strange day and Tanzy lies down in the office to take a nap.
A rumbling voice wakes her up. She clears the sleep from her eyes and takes in the tall drink of water peering around the door.
His name is Lucas and he is from animal control, checking on them about the strange noises in the woods.
She later discovers animal control had already come and gone and they had found something.
What had they found? Who was Lucas? What did it have to do with her? And what did it want with the horses?
My thoughts
I’ve always had a passion for horses. They are so noble and spirited.
I had to read this book.
Moonlit has some horror, mystery, and supernatural elements in it. Everything to make me happy.
Tanzy is wise for her age but also insecure, which makes her genuine and likable. She has a lot going on and handles it the best she can, lacking some necessary, need to know information.
The mysterious Lucas turns out to be very important. I had no idea who he was or what his connection was to Tanzy, and I was pleasantly surprised when I found out.
Several characters in this book are not who they appear to be. The author threw in some zingers and made this quite a mystery.
It was exciting to be reading along and all of a sudden I’m going, “What! Who!”
Everything in the story has a place and time, flowing smoothly back and forth, explaining key elements from the past that affect the present day.
I couldn’t be happier with the ending, and I’ll be looking for more of this thrilling adventure.
I would recommend this book to all ages. It has something for everyone.
Tanzy moved to Wildwood Farm when she was 8 years old. It’s like a dream come true for a young girl with a passion for all things horses.
She loved it, but now, ten years later, the place she calls home is a living hell.
It’s been a year since her father died. She’s watched her loving mother spiral downward, drowning in a bottle of vodka, and blaming her.
Today is Tanzy’s birthday. No big deal for her until she hears a terrifying cry from the woods and receives a phone call from a strange man telling her – “Be careful today… It’s an important day.” His voice is thick with urgency. “I need you to be careful. I need you…”
Not long after, there is an incident at the stables, a black, blurry something emerges from the woods and stalks her. Her horse startles and crashes into a gate. Her and the horse are a bit scraped up but okay.
It makes her remember the strange phone call.
It’s been a strange day and Tanzy lies down in the office to take a nap.
A rumbling voice wakes her up. She clears the sleep from her eyes and takes in the tall drink of water peering around the door.
His name is Lucas and he is from animal control, checking on them about the strange noises in the woods.
She later discovers animal control had already come and gone and they had found something.
What had they found? Who was Lucas? What did it have to do with her? And what did it want with the horses?
My thoughts
I’ve always had a passion for horses. They are so noble and spirited.
I had to read this book.
Moonlit has some horror, mystery, and supernatural elements in it. Everything to make me happy.
Tanzy is wise for her age but also insecure, which makes her genuine and likable. She has a lot going on and handles it the best she can, lacking some necessary, need to know information.
The mysterious Lucas turns out to be very important. I had no idea who he was or what his connection was to Tanzy, and I was pleasantly surprised when I found out.
Several characters in this book are not who they appear to be. The author threw in some zingers and made this quite a mystery.
It was exciting to be reading along and all of a sudden I’m going, “What! Who!”
Everything in the story has a place and time, flowing smoothly back and forth, explaining key elements from the past that affect the present day.
I couldn’t be happier with the ending, and I’ll be looking for more of this thrilling adventure.
I would recommend this book to all ages. It has something for everyone.
May 24, 2013
This book starts out Tanzy who has a bad relationship with her mother after her father's death. She spends her time working on the Wildwood Farm where strange things are going on, and they seem to be happening around Tanzy then she gets a phone call from a "him" that is worried about her. What does he want or care that she stay safe on her birthday?
This book was OMG amazing when Tanzy gets in a freak horse accident she meets Vanessa and thinks Vanessa is a saving grace spending time with the injured Tanzy at the hospital, but no one in this book is what they seem and there are so many secrets, that only surface at the end when Tanzy goes on a Origin journey to find out what her past life is about.
So many people all out for Tanzy and those who want to protect her go about it the wrong way. Definitely a great book for those who love paranormal with a hint of romance, so many interesting and dark characters. I also loved the horse themed with this book. I can't wait to see what Jadie Jones does with Tanzy next, the cliffhanger with Tanzy's mother was awesome! A great book everyone would love!
This book was OMG amazing when Tanzy gets in a freak horse accident she meets Vanessa and thinks Vanessa is a saving grace spending time with the injured Tanzy at the hospital, but no one in this book is what they seem and there are so many secrets, that only surface at the end when Tanzy goes on a Origin journey to find out what her past life is about.
So many people all out for Tanzy and those who want to protect her go about it the wrong way. Definitely a great book for those who love paranormal with a hint of romance, so many interesting and dark characters. I also loved the horse themed with this book. I can't wait to see what Jadie Jones does with Tanzy next, the cliffhanger with Tanzy's mother was awesome! A great book everyone would love!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2016
Horses have always been a passion for 18-year-old Tanzy Hightower and she is connected with them in a way no one else is. They sense the things outside the farm, unexplainable things. When Tanzy takes a terrifying ride right into the heart of the woods everything she knows comes into question.
It is quite clear that the author knows a thing or two about horses and that is abundantly shown in her writing style. Tanzy’s troubled history was striking and pulled me right into the story, galloping alongside her journey. Tanzy was definitely not a character that I would want to have anyone look up to. I wanted to keep hitting my head against the wall at all of the horrible decisions she choose to make. Overall, the climax was predicable but it was an enjoyable story.
Note: I received this ARC book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
It is quite clear that the author knows a thing or two about horses and that is abundantly shown in her writing style. Tanzy’s troubled history was striking and pulled me right into the story, galloping alongside her journey. Tanzy was definitely not a character that I would want to have anyone look up to. I wanted to keep hitting my head against the wall at all of the horrible decisions she choose to make. Overall, the climax was predicable but it was an enjoyable story.
Note: I received this ARC book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Read
April 5, 2013Jadie, you did a very good job on writing this book. I think it's my favorite book out of "Starseed", "The Mist on Bronte Moor" and this one. It is really interesting and I think that there were a lot of thrills when you twisted the story up near the ending. The parts that surprised me most was when she went to see her Origin and she touched Asher, and he could see her clearly, when she touched Spera, but she acted as though nothing had happened, when she learned that Lucas had killed her father, and when in the end she gets to see her real mom, Hope. Something I thought I should mention, is that you should seriously think about making another book. "Moonlit 2." I think you should definatly tell about the was against Asher, Vanessa, and Donna, and Tanzy and her army.
Thanks for writing the book. I felt like I was litterally with Tanzy at all times!
Thanks for writing the book. I felt like I was litterally with Tanzy at all times!
March 16, 2013
Everything has a beginning, but for Tanzy, her origin is the end of it all. Jones weaves a fantastic fantasy story that follows Tanzy as she goes into her past to find her origin. I’m looking forward to the next installment of this series to see if Tanzy overcomes the scandals of the people she trusted. Moonlit was a clean YA read with a sweet romance between Tanzy and Lucas. The cover of Moonlit matches the beautiful writing within.
March 30, 2013
Absolutely brilliant! Stellar writing and an original, captivating story. I hope I don’t have to wait too long for the sequel.
April 3, 2013
Awesome read!! Couldn't put it down. It's adventurous, intriguing and so descriptive that you feel like you are right there.
December 5, 2018
* Review can be found at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/ *
Tanzy has a great life- it's her birthday, she is in her senior year of high school, and she gets to go spend the day riding her horse at the ranch her father manages. But when something odd happens out on the ride with her father and a rain storm starts, the worst scenario occurs and her father disappears, presumed dead. The event causes her mother to shut down and Tanzy to go down a dark, lonely path that leads nowhere with many unanswered questions.
Wildwood was so different from anything I have ever read before. Honestly, I could not predict what would happen next since everything was a twisty hot mess, and I had no idea who to trust. And the paranormal aspect was unique and kinda creepy, making this story standout from any other. The descriptions of some of the supernatural elements were so detailed I felt as if I was experiencing them right along with the characters.
Side note here- this was a really heartbreaking book, way more than I expected when I first started reading. The beginning 40% just filled me with sorrow and made me want to hug Tanzy. Who by the way, is a fantastic main character. She was strong and capable, while at the same time being empathetic and caring. She had to grow up way too fast and I wanted to do an intervention for her in the worst of ways. Jadie was able to create a story where I was emotionally connected to Tanzy and I rooted for her and cared for her as if she was a real person.
This is the first book in what I would consider a New Adult paranormal trilogy that I highly recommend for anyone who wants to connect emotionally with the characters they are reading about as well as someone looking for something entirely different.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy.
Tanzy has a great life- it's her birthday, she is in her senior year of high school, and she gets to go spend the day riding her horse at the ranch her father manages. But when something odd happens out on the ride with her father and a rain storm starts, the worst scenario occurs and her father disappears, presumed dead. The event causes her mother to shut down and Tanzy to go down a dark, lonely path that leads nowhere with many unanswered questions.
Wildwood was so different from anything I have ever read before. Honestly, I could not predict what would happen next since everything was a twisty hot mess, and I had no idea who to trust. And the paranormal aspect was unique and kinda creepy, making this story standout from any other. The descriptions of some of the supernatural elements were so detailed I felt as if I was experiencing them right along with the characters.
Side note here- this was a really heartbreaking book, way more than I expected when I first started reading. The beginning 40% just filled me with sorrow and made me want to hug Tanzy. Who by the way, is a fantastic main character. She was strong and capable, while at the same time being empathetic and caring. She had to grow up way too fast and I wanted to do an intervention for her in the worst of ways. Jadie was able to create a story where I was emotionally connected to Tanzy and I rooted for her and cared for her as if she was a real person.
This is the first book in what I would consider a New Adult paranormal trilogy that I highly recommend for anyone who wants to connect emotionally with the characters they are reading about as well as someone looking for something entirely different.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy.
October 10, 2017
This was such an amazing, intense read. And it wasn't at all what I was expecting. I honestly don’t know what I was expecting. But I was blown away. Jones did an great job with each chapter that exploded with twists and turns, with the world building that brought the story to life and with the intensity and energy that flowed from the pages.
In just a short time, Tanzy’s life is forever changed and only unravels into further chaos from there on out. She endures so much heartbreak and her trust in others is is demolished from the start. But she was still such an amazing character with an beautiful soul. My favorite part with her was towards the very end. It was interesting seeing her fate played out. I won’t say anything else about it but it was really well done, well written, and gave me a larger knowledge about where Tanzy came from and who she is.
Definitely intense (I think I said that already...but it is!!!), creatively plotted, beautifully written...this book is a must read and I highly recommend. I look forward to seeing where this series leads. 5 Stars.
In just a short time, Tanzy’s life is forever changed and only unravels into further chaos from there on out. She endures so much heartbreak and her trust in others is is demolished from the start. But she was still such an amazing character with an beautiful soul. My favorite part with her was towards the very end. It was interesting seeing her fate played out. I won’t say anything else about it but it was really well done, well written, and gave me a larger knowledge about where Tanzy came from and who she is.
Definitely intense (I think I said that already...but it is!!!), creatively plotted, beautifully written...this book is a must read and I highly recommend. I look forward to seeing where this series leads. 5 Stars.
October 5, 2017
The world inside a world.....
This is my very first book by Jadie Jones all I've to say is once you get started with this well written story you won't want to put it down. Tanzy is a very strong character in her own right. Her love for horses is uncany as is her love for her parents. She must learn the truth before everything changes in her world.
I would recommend this story to anyone who belives in magic and horses. I have not read anything close to this story so there is nothing to compare it with. Just have an open mind to anything happening and you will be surprised as I was.
This is my very first book by Jadie Jones all I've to say is once you get started with this well written story you won't want to put it down. Tanzy is a very strong character in her own right. Her love for horses is uncany as is her love for her parents. She must learn the truth before everything changes in her world.
I would recommend this story to anyone who belives in magic and horses. I have not read anything close to this story so there is nothing to compare it with. Just have an open mind to anything happening and you will be surprised as I was.
January 18, 2018
I had the pleasure of working on this book while it was in edits and I can't tell you how much I enjoyed it! Such a creative story-line with complex characters who are easy to get invested in.
Read
June 26, 2018
Rating and review to come!
September 29, 2017
Great read
I loved the storyline and the characters. It was very well written and the descriptions we very well written out
I loved the storyline and the characters. It was very well written and the descriptions we very well written out
January 31, 2020
Tanzy thought she saw something in the woods, then she heard the howl. She told herself it was just coyotes.
Tanzy's father's death ended life as she knew it. Not only did she lose her father, she lost her mother and her horse, Moonlit. She had not ridden since.
Dana McDaniel has been running the farm. She knows horses and Tanzy trusts her. She didn't push her to get back on a horse, just left a note saying, "Hopewell needs a ride....." She mounted Hopewell and felt like she had come home.
It is the anniversary of her father's death. She receives a call telling her to be careful. She wonders if it is someones idea of a sick joke.
Tanzy had fallen asleep at Dana's desk and awoke to see Lucas. His eyes were almost black and his face had two scars running down his cheek. She does not know him and is surprised by her immediate attraction to him.
Tanzy took Hopewell on their nightly ride. She had disregarded the warning telephone call and the night would end in a vicious attack on her.
When she awoke after the riding accident, they told her she was lucky to be alive. The only thing that saved her was Dr. Metcher and his miracle drug.
Dana told her, while she was in the hospital, there had been a fire at the farm and there was no sign of the horses. They had not died in the fire, just seemed to vanish into thin air.
She meets Vanessa, Dr. Andrews wife. He is one of Tanzy's doctors. Vanessa told her she got lonely at home during the nights her husband worked, so she came to read to patients at the hospital and had been reading to Tanzy while she had been unconscious.
Tanzy asks her about Ryan, the medical student who was assigned to her. There was something puzzling about him, but she couldn't put her finger on what it was.
Tanzy had tried to keep the accident from her mother, but she showed up anyway.
She was brutal when she told her that Tanzy was not hers. She said she was done with her. She is speaking but Tanzy can no longer understand what she is saying. She walks out the door and Tanzy begins to vomit blood and feels like she is dying, again.
Lucas takes her hand and pulls her back, but when she open her eyes, it is Ryan and Dr. Andrews standing over her. She waits for an MRI and Cat scan with Ryan and proceeds to tell him about the golden horseshoes she keeps seeing on peoples palms. But he doesn't explain.
Vanessa confides in her, telling her about seeing things others don't. She said it made them special and they had to stick together. She told Tanzy she saw what happened to her. Vanessa explained that her visions had started after a bad car accident.
When Tanzy was released from the hospital, she stayed with Vanessa and Dr. Andrews. She thought it was the kindness of strangers but would soon find out it was so much more than that.
Who can she trust as the world she knows crumbles around her and she finds her true purpose in life?
5 STARS - Would Buy It For Them (lol)
The cover made me choose this book. It is so beautiful. I love the horses. Wildwood, the horse farm in Shenandoah Valley, made me think of Bonanza. Does that date me?
I was amazed by everything in this book. I loved it. It took me places that I haven't been before and didn't see coming. It was riveting from beginning to end. I can hardly believe this is Jadie Jones' debut novel.
This novel has everything and more that you would want in a paranormal story. It was very well written and the characters come alive on the pages. Watch out for the twists and turns and be careful of who you trust.
Even after being warned, Tanzy takes her nightly ride on Hopewell. When someone tells you don't go in the woods, then don't. It is not going to end well. I always laugh when I come across this example in the books I read. Don't open the door. Don't go down in the basement..........
I was crushed when I realized I wouldn't find out what happened to Tanzy until the next book. I hope Jadie Jones is a fast writer because I can hardly wait to get my hands on Book II.
I received this book in return for an honest and unbaised review.
Jadie Jones
Tanzy's father's death ended life as she knew it. Not only did she lose her father, she lost her mother and her horse, Moonlit. She had not ridden since.
Dana McDaniel has been running the farm. She knows horses and Tanzy trusts her. She didn't push her to get back on a horse, just left a note saying, "Hopewell needs a ride....." She mounted Hopewell and felt like she had come home.
It is the anniversary of her father's death. She receives a call telling her to be careful. She wonders if it is someones idea of a sick joke.
Tanzy had fallen asleep at Dana's desk and awoke to see Lucas. His eyes were almost black and his face had two scars running down his cheek. She does not know him and is surprised by her immediate attraction to him.
Tanzy took Hopewell on their nightly ride. She had disregarded the warning telephone call and the night would end in a vicious attack on her.
When she awoke after the riding accident, they told her she was lucky to be alive. The only thing that saved her was Dr. Metcher and his miracle drug.
Dana told her, while she was in the hospital, there had been a fire at the farm and there was no sign of the horses. They had not died in the fire, just seemed to vanish into thin air.
She meets Vanessa, Dr. Andrews wife. He is one of Tanzy's doctors. Vanessa told her she got lonely at home during the nights her husband worked, so she came to read to patients at the hospital and had been reading to Tanzy while she had been unconscious.
Tanzy asks her about Ryan, the medical student who was assigned to her. There was something puzzling about him, but she couldn't put her finger on what it was.
Tanzy had tried to keep the accident from her mother, but she showed up anyway.
She was brutal when she told her that Tanzy was not hers. She said she was done with her. She is speaking but Tanzy can no longer understand what she is saying. She walks out the door and Tanzy begins to vomit blood and feels like she is dying, again.
Lucas takes her hand and pulls her back, but when she open her eyes, it is Ryan and Dr. Andrews standing over her. She waits for an MRI and Cat scan with Ryan and proceeds to tell him about the golden horseshoes she keeps seeing on peoples palms. But he doesn't explain.
Vanessa confides in her, telling her about seeing things others don't. She said it made them special and they had to stick together. She told Tanzy she saw what happened to her. Vanessa explained that her visions had started after a bad car accident.
When Tanzy was released from the hospital, she stayed with Vanessa and Dr. Andrews. She thought it was the kindness of strangers but would soon find out it was so much more than that.
Who can she trust as the world she knows crumbles around her and she finds her true purpose in life?
5 STARS - Would Buy It For Them (lol)
The cover made me choose this book. It is so beautiful. I love the horses. Wildwood, the horse farm in Shenandoah Valley, made me think of Bonanza. Does that date me?
I was amazed by everything in this book. I loved it. It took me places that I haven't been before and didn't see coming. It was riveting from beginning to end. I can hardly believe this is Jadie Jones' debut novel.
This novel has everything and more that you would want in a paranormal story. It was very well written and the characters come alive on the pages. Watch out for the twists and turns and be careful of who you trust.
Even after being warned, Tanzy takes her nightly ride on Hopewell. When someone tells you don't go in the woods, then don't. It is not going to end well. I always laugh when I come across this example in the books I read. Don't open the door. Don't go down in the basement..........
I was crushed when I realized I wouldn't find out what happened to Tanzy until the next book. I hope Jadie Jones is a fast writer because I can hardly wait to get my hands on Book II.
I received this book in return for an honest and unbaised review.
Jadie Jones
July 7, 2015
Eighteen year old Tanzy is a horse expert with a hidden and painful past. While out for a ride one night in the woods, she and her horse are chased by mysterious dark creatures, perhaps the same ones that killed her father on a ride several years before. After a terrible fall during the chase, Tanzy miraculously survives, but with strange new visions of people and markings that no one else appears to see. When a new friend, Vanessa, takes her under her wing, Tanzy begins to uncover the meaning behind the strange occurrences, including past lives and reborn souls, the divide between other worlds, and keeping evil out.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when going into this book, but all of the twists took me by surprise. The beginning of the book was a bit slow to start, but picked up considerably after Tanzy was released from the hospital and started on her adventure and road to self-discovery. At that point, I became really invested in Tanzy’s story and was dying to find out all of her secrets right alongside her. The book becomes very “fantasy like” (don’t know how else to describe it) at one point, and while I don’t typically read fantasy, I was drawn into this world that Jones had created nonetheless. While I was a bit confused at times, I became increasingly intrigued to discover what was going on. Perhaps I’ll even read more fantasy now, even though I’m not usually drawn to it.
Let’s talk about the characters! I really liked them and felt that they really made this story a great one. Vanessa is a really interesting character that adds a lot to the mix. She’s a young, rich doctor’s wife that Tanzy meets at the hospital. She does a lot of wonderful things for Tanzy, but you also get a foreboding sense with her too. She seems to be keeping a lot of secrets, and does some strange things. Why is she so interested in Tanzy? What was her past life like?
Then there’s Lucas, another mysterious character, and love interest for Tanzy. He has some strange abilities of his own, and will keep you guessing throughout the novel.
Tanzy, of course, was a great character. I sensed her frustration at not knowing and understanding what was happening to her, and I felt that frustration with her. She had a rough life to start with, but now things have gotten just plain weird… and creepy. I really enjoyed going on this journey with her to discover her true past and soul.
I can’t go much more into detail without giving away major plot points of the story, but just know that I was surprised at where the novel ended up, and in a good way. Jones has a real talent for writing. I’ll be waiting for the sequel on this one! For fans of YA and fantasy, I think you’ll really dig this story…. bonus points if you’re into horses, too!
Note: I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when going into this book, but all of the twists took me by surprise. The beginning of the book was a bit slow to start, but picked up considerably after Tanzy was released from the hospital and started on her adventure and road to self-discovery. At that point, I became really invested in Tanzy’s story and was dying to find out all of her secrets right alongside her. The book becomes very “fantasy like” (don’t know how else to describe it) at one point, and while I don’t typically read fantasy, I was drawn into this world that Jones had created nonetheless. While I was a bit confused at times, I became increasingly intrigued to discover what was going on. Perhaps I’ll even read more fantasy now, even though I’m not usually drawn to it.
Let’s talk about the characters! I really liked them and felt that they really made this story a great one. Vanessa is a really interesting character that adds a lot to the mix. She’s a young, rich doctor’s wife that Tanzy meets at the hospital. She does a lot of wonderful things for Tanzy, but you also get a foreboding sense with her too. She seems to be keeping a lot of secrets, and does some strange things. Why is she so interested in Tanzy? What was her past life like?
Then there’s Lucas, another mysterious character, and love interest for Tanzy. He has some strange abilities of his own, and will keep you guessing throughout the novel.
Tanzy, of course, was a great character. I sensed her frustration at not knowing and understanding what was happening to her, and I felt that frustration with her. She had a rough life to start with, but now things have gotten just plain weird… and creepy. I really enjoyed going on this journey with her to discover her true past and soul.
I can’t go much more into detail without giving away major plot points of the story, but just know that I was surprised at where the novel ended up, and in a good way. Jones has a real talent for writing. I’ll be waiting for the sequel on this one! For fans of YA and fantasy, I think you’ll really dig this story…. bonus points if you’re into horses, too!
Note: I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2014
The saying that 'You can't judge a book by its cover' never rang as true for me as it did with this book. While the cover is stunning, it made me think this was a book solely about horses. Since I'm not an avid horse-lover, initially I didn't think this was the book for me. But then I read the back cover and I was hooked. And after reading the story, the cover makes so much more sense to me. So I tell all of you nay-sayers (nay - get it?)READ.THIS.BOOK. Seriously, it made it to my 'favorites' shelf, which is a pretty hard thing to do.
This is book one in a three book series still in progress. Book two will be out mid-2014, and I believe book three will be out later in 2014, maybe early 2015.
Tanzy Hightower lives, breathes and dreams horses. She has worked on a horse farm most of her life, along with her father. She knows without being told not to venture past the tree line, because strange things lurk out there. The horses know it, Tanzy knows it, but it is never spoken of. Then a horrible accident happens to someone she loves and Tanzy feels the guilt and remorse for many years to come. But it's not until something happens to Tanzy that the strange shapes in the forest become real, and Tanzy's life takes on a very different twist. New friends come into her life, but can she trust them? Why do they act like they've known her forever, and how do they have information about her past?
The horses are portrayed as loyal, majestic and highly intuitive (not like the kind who just randomly throw you off their back without provocation or warning, but I digress).
Author Jadie Jones has a very poetic lilt to her writing. It is at once spiritual and beautiful, and she easily makes you see in your mind's eye the terrain, the characters and the scenes as they unfold.
Remember this is not a stand-alone book, so while there are unanswered questions at the end of book one, most of the ones introduced in the beginning of the story are explained; setting up a very nice little backdrop for book two.
I recommend this book for readers 15+.
This is book one in a three book series still in progress. Book two will be out mid-2014, and I believe book three will be out later in 2014, maybe early 2015.
Tanzy Hightower lives, breathes and dreams horses. She has worked on a horse farm most of her life, along with her father. She knows without being told not to venture past the tree line, because strange things lurk out there. The horses know it, Tanzy knows it, but it is never spoken of. Then a horrible accident happens to someone she loves and Tanzy feels the guilt and remorse for many years to come. But it's not until something happens to Tanzy that the strange shapes in the forest become real, and Tanzy's life takes on a very different twist. New friends come into her life, but can she trust them? Why do they act like they've known her forever, and how do they have information about her past?
The horses are portrayed as loyal, majestic and highly intuitive (not like the kind who just randomly throw you off their back without provocation or warning, but I digress).
Author Jadie Jones has a very poetic lilt to her writing. It is at once spiritual and beautiful, and she easily makes you see in your mind's eye the terrain, the characters and the scenes as they unfold.
Remember this is not a stand-alone book, so while there are unanswered questions at the end of book one, most of the ones introduced in the beginning of the story are explained; setting up a very nice little backdrop for book two.
I recommend this book for readers 15+.
May 29, 2017
The first half of Moonlit was incredibly slow. There's quite a bit of plot progression going on, but so little is explained in that first half that you aren't even aware that the plot is moving at all. Really. From the first half of the book, I could have sworn that this was the story of a girl who lost her father in a horse-riding accident, who is working to get past his death. And finds out she has magical powers.
And then you hit that halfway point, where Tanzy goes to see her Origin. And the book changes drastically. It goes from "let's go horse shopping, you're my BFF!" to "everyone is out to kill Tanzy" in a heartbeat.
I liked the second half of the book. The whole "past life, genetic experiment, will destroy the world" thing was interesting, and I loved all of the various twists and betrayals and reverse-betrayals that happened. Some of the betrayals were plainly visible, but others were actually surprising.
In the first few chapters while Tanzy is in the hospital, it looks like the book is getting ready to set up a love triangle, but it quickly rights itself. And while the romance is integral to the plot, it isn't overbearing, or the only thing the story focuses on. I liked that the story was able to move on without Tanzy fawning over someone every few pages, and the fact that the guy she is obsessed with isn't some flawless, chiseled specimen. It made her feel like a stronger, more realistic character.
I understand books that throw in heavy romances as a plot point, or the entire plot of a story - they're playing to women's obsession with hot relationships. But when the relationship is the only thing that defines your female protagonist, it's very hard to connect with her. So I enjoy books like this that can take a romantic approach, but still work on actual characterization outside of the relationship.
Aside from the snail-paced start, this was a pretty good book. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
And then you hit that halfway point, where Tanzy goes to see her Origin. And the book changes drastically. It goes from "let's go horse shopping, you're my BFF!" to "everyone is out to kill Tanzy" in a heartbeat.
I liked the second half of the book. The whole "past life, genetic experiment, will destroy the world" thing was interesting, and I loved all of the various twists and betrayals and reverse-betrayals that happened. Some of the betrayals were plainly visible, but others were actually surprising.
In the first few chapters while Tanzy is in the hospital, it looks like the book is getting ready to set up a love triangle, but it quickly rights itself. And while the romance is integral to the plot, it isn't overbearing, or the only thing the story focuses on. I liked that the story was able to move on without Tanzy fawning over someone every few pages, and the fact that the guy she is obsessed with isn't some flawless, chiseled specimen. It made her feel like a stronger, more realistic character.
I understand books that throw in heavy romances as a plot point, or the entire plot of a story - they're playing to women's obsession with hot relationships. But when the relationship is the only thing that defines your female protagonist, it's very hard to connect with her. So I enjoy books like this that can take a romantic approach, but still work on actual characterization outside of the relationship.
Aside from the snail-paced start, this was a pretty good book. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
April 11, 2015
Different and unique story line that’s full of twists and turns. Reads like a fantasy mystery.
Moonlit by Jadie Jones is a blending of genres that explores the themes of reincarnation, battle between good and evil, friendship, betrayal, and destiny. It is book one of the Moonlit Trilogy so it does have a continuing story line.
At the beginning of the story we join main character, Tanzy Hightower, as she arrives to work at Wildwood Farm.
Wildwood Farm is a symphony of motion. Boots and hooves march down the concrete aisle. A working horse tattoos a path on the dirt floor of the indoor arena, his steady trot like a heartbeat. Most of the time I fit here, I’m a note in this melody. But some days the song is too loud. Other days I don’t hear it at all. – Tanzy, Moonlit by Jadie Jones
Moonlit has a different and unique story line that is full of twists and turns. It reads like a fantasy mystery with a blend of romantic tension, adventure, and magic.
Tanzy’s life is quickly turned upside down after an accident lands her in the hospital. She discovers that there is more to her life than she ever imagined and knowing whom to trust when everything changes is not always easy.
Summary: Moonlit is a great beginning to an interesting and different take on the reincarnation theme. There’s magic, tragedy, and promises of more to come in book 2, Windswept.
Was this review helpful? If so, please consider voting for it on Amazon!
Books in the Moonlit Trilogy
Moonlit (Book 1)
Windswept (Book 2)
Moonlit by Jadie Jones is a blending of genres that explores the themes of reincarnation, battle between good and evil, friendship, betrayal, and destiny. It is book one of the Moonlit Trilogy so it does have a continuing story line.
At the beginning of the story we join main character, Tanzy Hightower, as she arrives to work at Wildwood Farm.
Wildwood Farm is a symphony of motion. Boots and hooves march down the concrete aisle. A working horse tattoos a path on the dirt floor of the indoor arena, his steady trot like a heartbeat. Most of the time I fit here, I’m a note in this melody. But some days the song is too loud. Other days I don’t hear it at all. – Tanzy, Moonlit by Jadie Jones
Moonlit has a different and unique story line that is full of twists and turns. It reads like a fantasy mystery with a blend of romantic tension, adventure, and magic.
Tanzy’s life is quickly turned upside down after an accident lands her in the hospital. She discovers that there is more to her life than she ever imagined and knowing whom to trust when everything changes is not always easy.
Summary: Moonlit is a great beginning to an interesting and different take on the reincarnation theme. There’s magic, tragedy, and promises of more to come in book 2, Windswept.
Was this review helpful? If so, please consider voting for it on Amazon!
Books in the Moonlit Trilogy
Moonlit (Book 1)
Windswept (Book 2)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews