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Lunar Eclipse
Moon De Cruz hasn’t had an easy life. Born a slave, she’s stationed aboard a Bramalian trader ship for twenty years. Miraculously, she survives a pirate attack and flees in an escape pod. As she crashes onto an uninhabited planet, she learns to become one with nature.
Four years later, Captain Beaux Lestarion is orbiting a virgin planet that appears rich in natural resources. She shuttles miners to the surface, but unexpected complications suggest someone is deliberately sabotaging their efforts to probe for stones, ores, and minerals.
When Moon saves Beaux’s life, Beaux is drawn to the beautiful young woman against her better judgment. Moon doubts a seasoned and cynical captain working for the government can help to defend the planet―no matter how attractive she might be. Reluctant allies or secret enemies―can love survive the challenge?
Cover Artist: Gun Brooke
Genres: Romance / Speculative Fiction
Tags: Other Worlds, Women in Uniform, Space Opera, Age Gap
Four years later, Captain Beaux Lestarion is orbiting a virgin planet that appears rich in natural resources. She shuttles miners to the surface, but unexpected complications suggest someone is deliberately sabotaging their efforts to probe for stones, ores, and minerals.
When Moon saves Beaux’s life, Beaux is drawn to the beautiful young woman against her better judgment. Moon doubts a seasoned and cynical captain working for the government can help to defend the planet―no matter how attractive she might be. Reluctant allies or secret enemies―can love survive the challenge?
Cover Artist: Gun Brooke
Genres: Romance / Speculative Fiction
Tags: Other Worlds, Women in Uniform, Space Opera, Age Gap
- GenresScience FictionLesbian
242 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2019
16 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Gun Brooke
40 books226 followersGun Brooke resides in the countryside in Sweden with her very patient family. A retired neonatal intensive care nurse, she now writes full time, only rarely taking a break to create web sites for herself or others and to do computer graphics. Gun writes both romances and sci-fi. She is the recipient of the 2009 Alice B. Medal for "body of work."
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 5, 2019
3.50 Stars. I’m a Brooke fan and have read a lot of her back catalogue. Since there are not a ton of lesfic sci-fi books out there, I am always happy when Brooke puts a new book out. Her sci-fi series called Exodus was a lot of fun. The first book had some bumps, but I loved the rest of that series. I was hoping I would have a similar reaction to this new standalone book. Instead, I’m a little in the middle. Parts I really enjoyed, others left me feeling a little underwhelmed. It’s the kind of book I’m glad I read, I just didn’t love it like I was hoping too.
Moon has spent her entire life as a slave. After pirates attack the ship she is bound too, Moon is determined to stay alive and finally be free. Will Moon’s vow come true and what will happen to her if she falls for the competent Captain Beaux?
First, I have to give Brooke props for the world building. I loved the planet Haven that Brooke designed. From the animal creatures to other surprises, I really liked how well imagined it all was. There was plenty that felt very fresh and didn’t feel just recycled from one sci-fi book to another. Brooke even included smells and tastes that added these little details that helped make it feel like you were really there on that planet.
I know not everyone loves sci-fi but I don’t think anyone would have trouble reading this story even if you are newer to the genre. It has action and excitement with a romance. There was nothing too technical or hard to read, instead this book is very approachable for any adult reader.
I think the reason I didn’t love this was the romance. Having read plenty of Brooke’s books I know she can write really good romances. I liked the two mains together but I wasn’t feeling any spark. There is so much going on action wise that I don’t think there was enough time to really build the romance up. It seemed like the characters went from a kiss to discussing what their futures could possibly be together. The jump was too quick with not enough of that mushy romantic middle that I love. I think the book needed about 50 more pages that were 95% romance.
All and all I liked this story I just didn’t love it. I don’t think it is Brooke’s best but I would still recommend it to sci-fi or Brooke fans. If you are new to Brooke’s sci-fi I would suggest her Exodus series first, but this book was very readable and entertaining.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
Moon has spent her entire life as a slave. After pirates attack the ship she is bound too, Moon is determined to stay alive and finally be free. Will Moon’s vow come true and what will happen to her if she falls for the competent Captain Beaux?
First, I have to give Brooke props for the world building. I loved the planet Haven that Brooke designed. From the animal creatures to other surprises, I really liked how well imagined it all was. There was plenty that felt very fresh and didn’t feel just recycled from one sci-fi book to another. Brooke even included smells and tastes that added these little details that helped make it feel like you were really there on that planet.
I know not everyone loves sci-fi but I don’t think anyone would have trouble reading this story even if you are newer to the genre. It has action and excitement with a romance. There was nothing too technical or hard to read, instead this book is very approachable for any adult reader.
I think the reason I didn’t love this was the romance. Having read plenty of Brooke’s books I know she can write really good romances. I liked the two mains together but I wasn’t feeling any spark. There is so much going on action wise that I don’t think there was enough time to really build the romance up. It seemed like the characters went from a kiss to discussing what their futures could possibly be together. The jump was too quick with not enough of that mushy romantic middle that I love. I think the book needed about 50 more pages that were 95% romance.
All and all I liked this story I just didn’t love it. I don’t think it is Brooke’s best but I would still recommend it to sci-fi or Brooke fans. If you are new to Brooke’s sci-fi I would suggest her Exodus series first, but this book was very readable and entertaining.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
November 25, 2019
Lunar Eclipse by Gun Brooke is a beautiful combination of speculative fiction and romance.
This is the story of Moon de Cruz and Captain Beaux Lestarion. Moon has been a slave for all of her life. She was bought and lived as a servant on a cruise ship going from planet to planet for most of her young life. When that ship was attacked and destroyed by pirates, through a set of almost miraculous events, Moon manages to flee in an escape pod. She is the only survivor. She eventually crash lands onto an uninhabited world. Though she is sometimes lonely, she also enjoys the fact that she is finally living as a free person on a lovely planet. About four years later this idyllic life is threatened when a space ship arrives filled with businessmen and miners intent on finding and taking the resources of what they think is a totally uninhabited planet. The captain of the ship also lands with the group and Moon, who is watching them from a distance, immediately takes notice of her. Moon feels she must keep these folks from hurting what she feels is her planet, but she also feels a real attraction to Beaux that complicates everything.
This story touched my heart. I’ve read several of Ms. Brooke’s romance novels before, but this is my first time reading any of her speculative fiction. I must say I am very impressed with how well she makes this world seem real. Her world building skills are well represented in this book. Part way through, I was almost wishing I could live on this planet myself. The two main characters are very likeable and easy to connect with. The chemistry between the two is very evident from the moment they first set eyes on each other. The story flows easily and kept my interest all the way through. There is even a plot twist that surprised me and made the story more interesting.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and can recommend it to anyone who loves a wonderful romance set into a speculative fiction story.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections:
https://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
This is the story of Moon de Cruz and Captain Beaux Lestarion. Moon has been a slave for all of her life. She was bought and lived as a servant on a cruise ship going from planet to planet for most of her young life. When that ship was attacked and destroyed by pirates, through a set of almost miraculous events, Moon manages to flee in an escape pod. She is the only survivor. She eventually crash lands onto an uninhabited world. Though she is sometimes lonely, she also enjoys the fact that she is finally living as a free person on a lovely planet. About four years later this idyllic life is threatened when a space ship arrives filled with businessmen and miners intent on finding and taking the resources of what they think is a totally uninhabited planet. The captain of the ship also lands with the group and Moon, who is watching them from a distance, immediately takes notice of her. Moon feels she must keep these folks from hurting what she feels is her planet, but she also feels a real attraction to Beaux that complicates everything.
This story touched my heart. I’ve read several of Ms. Brooke’s romance novels before, but this is my first time reading any of her speculative fiction. I must say I am very impressed with how well she makes this world seem real. Her world building skills are well represented in this book. Part way through, I was almost wishing I could live on this planet myself. The two main characters are very likeable and easy to connect with. The chemistry between the two is very evident from the moment they first set eyes on each other. The story flows easily and kept my interest all the way through. There is even a plot twist that surprised me and made the story more interesting.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and can recommend it to anyone who loves a wonderful romance set into a speculative fiction story.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections:
https://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
January 1, 2020
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Brooke writes interesting sci-fi lesfic, and this has an interesting premise, but didn’t quite hit the mark in some places. This features MC Moon, a slave aboard a pleasure ship who escapes as it’s about to explode and ends up on an isolated planet. Beaux is the captain of a ship transporting miners and executives of some company that wants to mine on Moon’s planet. Both characters are interesting, but there’s not enough time to fully flesh them out/explore their backstories.
Plot wise, Moon realises why Beaux and the miners are there and tries to sabotage their plans while also saving Beaux from some of the more dangerous animals that live on the planet. Through a series of events Moon ends up assisting Beaux and her team to save the workers from the planet when it retaliates (yes, you read that right).
Turns out, this is a strange planet with mythical beings and the ability to change/heal itself and set animals on its attackers. Moon has come to coexist with the planet and other inhabitants (I won’t spoil how) and is therefore attuned to what will happen and spends a lot of time warning people not to do things and then saving them when they do. There’s also two really shallowly drawn bad guys who want to mine the planet (though I did wonder how they even knew about it and the special item they wanted to extract from it).
This also features a romance between Moon and Beaux, but the romance didn’t gel for me for a few reasons: 1) they’d known each other about a week by the end of the book and had spent most of that time running around the planet trying not to get killed, 2) Moon is an escaped slave, she’s also young and has spent the last four years by herself, 3) by her own admission she doesn’t even know what kissing is until Beaux does it to her, and there wasn’t enough time to explore how this would have affected her (or the psychology of falling for the first person to be nice to you/save you and the consent issues around not even knowing what sex is).
The world building was interesting, I especially loved Dancer, an animal that Moon has befriended who is both cute and extremely loyal. The other animals/fauna were also interesting, but I found the explanation of how Haven existed and managed to do what it did hard to swallow.
I’m not sure whether BSB have a word/page limit on their books, but suspect so. I think this would have been better if it had been longer and/or split into two books to give Brooke enough time to explore all of the threads in the book. It seemed like she was trying to do too much in too little space. There were also some wording/grammar errors.
Overall, this had an interesting premise, but it felt too rushed, especially the romance. 3.25-3.5 stars.
Brooke writes interesting sci-fi lesfic, and this has an interesting premise, but didn’t quite hit the mark in some places. This features MC Moon, a slave aboard a pleasure ship who escapes as it’s about to explode and ends up on an isolated planet. Beaux is the captain of a ship transporting miners and executives of some company that wants to mine on Moon’s planet. Both characters are interesting, but there’s not enough time to fully flesh them out/explore their backstories.
Plot wise, Moon realises why Beaux and the miners are there and tries to sabotage their plans while also saving Beaux from some of the more dangerous animals that live on the planet. Through a series of events Moon ends up assisting Beaux and her team to save the workers from the planet when it retaliates (yes, you read that right).
Turns out, this is a strange planet with mythical beings and the ability to change/heal itself and set animals on its attackers. Moon has come to coexist with the planet and other inhabitants (I won’t spoil how) and is therefore attuned to what will happen and spends a lot of time warning people not to do things and then saving them when they do. There’s also two really shallowly drawn bad guys who want to mine the planet (though I did wonder how they even knew about it and the special item they wanted to extract from it).
This also features a romance between Moon and Beaux, but the romance didn’t gel for me for a few reasons: 1) they’d known each other about a week by the end of the book and had spent most of that time running around the planet trying not to get killed, 2) Moon is an escaped slave, she’s also young and has spent the last four years by herself, 3) by her own admission she doesn’t even know what kissing is until Beaux does it to her, and there wasn’t enough time to explore how this would have affected her (or the psychology of falling for the first person to be nice to you/save you and the consent issues around not even knowing what sex is).
The world building was interesting, I especially loved Dancer, an animal that Moon has befriended who is both cute and extremely loyal. The other animals/fauna were also interesting, but I found the explanation of how Haven existed and managed to do what it did hard to swallow.
I’m not sure whether BSB have a word/page limit on their books, but suspect so. I think this would have been better if it had been longer and/or split into two books to give Brooke enough time to explore all of the threads in the book. It seemed like she was trying to do too much in too little space. There were also some wording/grammar errors.
Overall, this had an interesting premise, but it felt too rushed, especially the romance. 3.25-3.5 stars.
December 9, 2019
This is very good. There's a ton of great stuff happening here that will impress fans of Brooke and of science fiction. Our two leads are distinctly different, and are excellent on their own. There's some fun and intricate world building, and some great action sequences.
Beaux is a captain aboard a commissioned space ship that finds a seemingly pristine planet. When they land, though, Beaux and her crew find out this is not the case. Moon is a survivor of a massive star cruiser crash and is an ex slave. She is rightfully concerned about the sanctity of her Haven and of her own safety as a runaway. Once Beaux and Moon realize they have to work together to stop a corrupt mining company from harming the planet, they find out far more about each other, and the planet than they expected.
So, there's hints throughout the book that the planet, dubbed "Haven" by Moon, is sentient. And the way the author explores that is great fun. It gives some room for an interesting twist that I did not really see coming. I also loved that Moon's pet doggo thing, Dancer, is such a big part of the story. I think he helps Moon and Beaux come closer together just by being himself.
If anything, I'd say I was a little distracted by some of the dialog. It strays a little too much into exposition dump, which did slow down some action sequences. It also made for some clunky conversations, to the point where I was like, "Did she really need to say it in that way?" Luckily those problems are regulated towards the end of the book, where the most important action has already ended.
For those who like a solid Lesbian Sci-fi read, this is great. It doesn't rely on the romance between Moon and Beaux, as they're constantly moving, but they do get some quieter moments to work on their relationship. I appreciate that, especially since they are up against some really tight timetables, and both were often injured, too. There's also the fact that Moon really didn't understand the feelings she was having on account of her being isolated all her life. It wouldn't have made sense for them to fall into bed together until much later on in the book. If they did, it would have made their romance feel very off-putting. It was a balance that played out very well.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Beaux is a captain aboard a commissioned space ship that finds a seemingly pristine planet. When they land, though, Beaux and her crew find out this is not the case. Moon is a survivor of a massive star cruiser crash and is an ex slave. She is rightfully concerned about the sanctity of her Haven and of her own safety as a runaway. Once Beaux and Moon realize they have to work together to stop a corrupt mining company from harming the planet, they find out far more about each other, and the planet than they expected.
So, there's hints throughout the book that the planet, dubbed "Haven" by Moon, is sentient. And the way the author explores that is great fun. It gives some room for an interesting twist that I did not really see coming. I also loved that Moon's pet doggo thing, Dancer, is such a big part of the story. I think he helps Moon and Beaux come closer together just by being himself.
If anything, I'd say I was a little distracted by some of the dialog. It strays a little too much into exposition dump, which did slow down some action sequences. It also made for some clunky conversations, to the point where I was like, "Did she really need to say it in that way?" Luckily those problems are regulated towards the end of the book, where the most important action has already ended.
For those who like a solid Lesbian Sci-fi read, this is great. It doesn't rely on the romance between Moon and Beaux, as they're constantly moving, but they do get some quieter moments to work on their relationship. I appreciate that, especially since they are up against some really tight timetables, and both were often injured, too. There's also the fact that Moon really didn't understand the feelings she was having on account of her being isolated all her life. It wouldn't have made sense for them to fall into bed together until much later on in the book. If they did, it would have made their romance feel very off-putting. It was a balance that played out very well.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 30, 2019
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley and Bold Stroke books in exchange for an honest review.
What can I say about Gun Brooke that hasn’t already been said. She is an amazing story teller and although I am not a huge sci fi fan, if she wrote it, then I’m sure as heck going to read it.
This story centers around Moon De Cruz, a slave for 20 years that escapes to save her life when the vessel that she serves is destroyed. She is the sole survivor and promises herself that wherever the escape pod sends her she will never be a slave again . She lands on an uninhabited planet which she names Haven and makes a life for her self. Together her and the “pup” she saves makes a way for themselves amongst this beautiful planet.
However that all changes when a commercial vessel lands bent on destroying the land by drilling and taking the natural resources. This is where Moon meets Beaux, the Captain of the commercial vessel and its crew. Moon is intrigued by Beaux and is bent on finding out if she is part of the plans meant to destroy the only home she has ever known.
Without giving more away there was so many twists and turns to the book that I just couldn’t stop reading and you, the reader, will find that out as well.
I can see this book as a series!
What can I say about Gun Brooke that hasn’t already been said. She is an amazing story teller and although I am not a huge sci fi fan, if she wrote it, then I’m sure as heck going to read it.
This story centers around Moon De Cruz, a slave for 20 years that escapes to save her life when the vessel that she serves is destroyed. She is the sole survivor and promises herself that wherever the escape pod sends her she will never be a slave again . She lands on an uninhabited planet which she names Haven and makes a life for her self. Together her and the “pup” she saves makes a way for themselves amongst this beautiful planet.
However that all changes when a commercial vessel lands bent on destroying the land by drilling and taking the natural resources. This is where Moon meets Beaux, the Captain of the commercial vessel and its crew. Moon is intrigued by Beaux and is bent on finding out if she is part of the plans meant to destroy the only home she has ever known.
Without giving more away there was so many twists and turns to the book that I just couldn’t stop reading and you, the reader, will find that out as well.
I can see this book as a series!
December 4, 2019
This was my first book by Ms. Brooke, and I enjoyed it a great deal. Her characters feel familiar but in a good way. Like people I knew from years ago and just hooked back up with. Everyone's motivations were clear and relatable.
The world of Haven was a wonderful surprise and an important character in its own right. Dancer and his "kind" were unique and seemed to be both wolf-like and yet on their way to evolving into something more advanced. I wanted to read more about them! The...Gods? Entities? of Haven were of particular interest to me. I was fascinated by them. They were hard to envision at first, but I was left with the impression that they could be any size they wished and take on any shape. They were both the protectors of Haven and yet its heart as well. I think Ms. Brooke could easily expand on these beings in another book.
As for Moon and the ship's crew... I was so pleased with how they were all interacting by the end. In fact, between the characters, Haven and all of the wonderfully original beings, I was left wanting more! I hope the author writes more set on Haven. I would happily buy every word.
The world of Haven was a wonderful surprise and an important character in its own right. Dancer and his "kind" were unique and seemed to be both wolf-like and yet on their way to evolving into something more advanced. I wanted to read more about them! The...Gods? Entities? of Haven were of particular interest to me. I was fascinated by them. They were hard to envision at first, but I was left with the impression that they could be any size they wished and take on any shape. They were both the protectors of Haven and yet its heart as well. I think Ms. Brooke could easily expand on these beings in another book.
As for Moon and the ship's crew... I was so pleased with how they were all interacting by the end. In fact, between the characters, Haven and all of the wonderfully original beings, I was left wanting more! I hope the author writes more set on Haven. I would happily buy every word.
December 8, 2019
* An ARC was given to me via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
If you are a fan of the sci-fI genre I don't think that you would want to miss this book. I personally fell in love with the description of planet Haven and its unique creatures.
Moon is a young slave living in a cruise ship and serving rich people who travel from planet to planet. One day pirates attack the ship she is bound too and Moon is lucky to survive by escaping and traveling alone for months in a family escape pod and crashing in Haven, an uninhabited and magical planet.
I would totally recommend this story as it kept me interested till the last page. As a huge sci-fi fan I would really love to see Beaux and Moon in a series as in my opinion this book ended too soon. There was little time for the romance and this is the only reason I couldn't give my five stars rating . Tbh I was really surprised by the authors choice to give such a small space to the romantic part of the story as she writes romantic and intimate scenes really well. It's still a highly recommendable book that you shouldn't miss.
If you are a fan of the sci-fI genre I don't think that you would want to miss this book. I personally fell in love with the description of planet Haven and its unique creatures.
Moon is a young slave living in a cruise ship and serving rich people who travel from planet to planet. One day pirates attack the ship she is bound too and Moon is lucky to survive by escaping and traveling alone for months in a family escape pod and crashing in Haven, an uninhabited and magical planet.
I would totally recommend this story as it kept me interested till the last page. As a huge sci-fi fan I would really love to see Beaux and Moon in a series as in my opinion this book ended too soon. There was little time for the romance and this is the only reason I couldn't give my five stars rating . Tbh I was really surprised by the authors choice to give such a small space to the romantic part of the story as she writes romantic and intimate scenes really well. It's still a highly recommendable book that you shouldn't miss.
December 19, 2022
This author alternately writes books on thematic romance and speculative fiction and although I am not a fan of this latest genre, speculative fiction or fantasy, I have liked all her books so far. Because the worlds she recreates have been very much to my liking and she also gets the protagonists to catch me from the beginning.
In this book, in addition to a utopian planet within the general dystrophy of the plot, the two main characters are strong, aware and with the general good above anything else. And besides the human protagonists, there are many more very important characters in the story, we must apply some effort to make us an image of what she sometimes describes us. And I don't know if I have achieved it at all, I don't think it's relevant either.
And some of the things that happen is that ideal world would be good for us today in our world. It is a utopia but it would be a great thing, the idea that a planet can preserve itself with all kinds of mechanisms against any attack that could weaken it.
In short, this story has been quite entertaining, with action, its moments of tension and a bit of romance, maybe too little for my taste, but I had a good time reading it.
An advanced reading copy has been sent to me by the publisher Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley for my honest review
In this book, in addition to a utopian planet within the general dystrophy of the plot, the two main characters are strong, aware and with the general good above anything else. And besides the human protagonists, there are many more very important characters in the story, we must apply some effort to make us an image of what she sometimes describes us. And I don't know if I have achieved it at all, I don't think it's relevant either.
And some of the things that happen is that ideal world would be good for us today in our world. It is a utopia but it would be a great thing, the idea that a planet can preserve itself with all kinds of mechanisms against any attack that could weaken it.
In short, this story has been quite entertaining, with action, its moments of tension and a bit of romance, maybe too little for my taste, but I had a good time reading it.
An advanced reading copy has been sent to me by the publisher Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley for my honest review
February 16, 2020
If one enjoys visiting new worlds at the far reaches of space with vivid and clever word choice that builds up a myriad of dazzling images for one's mind, then this is the book for you!
Cruz de Moon, the only survivor from a destroyed luxury spacecraft, finds herself on Haven, a world untouched by humans. Gun Brooke's description of this beautiful world and the dangers that come with it are revealed as the reader learns alongside Moon how Haven functions and reacts to outside threats, such as Beaux and the corporation she is tasked to protect as they mine for potential resources. And Moon is on Haven's side, and Haven knows it.
Beaux and Moon's relationship is a slow burn, as the focus is on the world around them and one's relationship with the planet itself. There is mystery and peril at every turn, whether from the creatures of Haven itself or the suspicious corporation that only seeks to profit from Haven's secrets.
Honestly, reading this story reminded me of visiting a land much like is depicted in the Hayao Miyazaki movie, Princess Mononoke. Many of the creatures described I felt were similar to some of the creatures Miyazaki has portrayed in that work and others. The detailed beauty of nature was also a real treat and it made me want to go to Haven and experience its wonders for myself.
This book is a treat for anyone who wants a nice journey to a far away world with just the right amount of action and adventure to keep one's interest.
Cruz de Moon, the only survivor from a destroyed luxury spacecraft, finds herself on Haven, a world untouched by humans. Gun Brooke's description of this beautiful world and the dangers that come with it are revealed as the reader learns alongside Moon how Haven functions and reacts to outside threats, such as Beaux and the corporation she is tasked to protect as they mine for potential resources. And Moon is on Haven's side, and Haven knows it.
Beaux and Moon's relationship is a slow burn, as the focus is on the world around them and one's relationship with the planet itself. There is mystery and peril at every turn, whether from the creatures of Haven itself or the suspicious corporation that only seeks to profit from Haven's secrets.
Honestly, reading this story reminded me of visiting a land much like is depicted in the Hayao Miyazaki movie, Princess Mononoke. Many of the creatures described I felt were similar to some of the creatures Miyazaki has portrayed in that work and others. The detailed beauty of nature was also a real treat and it made me want to go to Haven and experience its wonders for myself.
This book is a treat for anyone who wants a nice journey to a far away world with just the right amount of action and adventure to keep one's interest.
November 29, 2021
This isn't Uber sci-fi, other than the beings every other thing really felt relatable in a way. We have the really adorable dog like being...I truly fell for the many ways he was portrayed. Then we have the planet itself which just reminded of me the Jehova Witness paradise pamphlets I read in my teen years (lol).
Then comes the visitors to the planet...the human factor (evil and those with good intentions) is something very relatable. And of course the bridging of loneliness even if the participants often are unaware they're partaking in a process.
Bottom line an entertaining read.
Then comes the visitors to the planet...the human factor (evil and those with good intentions) is something very relatable. And of course the bridging of loneliness even if the participants often are unaware they're partaking in a process.
Bottom line an entertaining read.
November 17, 2019
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Moon born a slave she has been stationed on a trader ship for twenty years when a chance to escape happened she take it. She vow never to be take again and go by the named her mother given her Moon and not the name of the people who had her 833 sge landed on planet that seems to have no human life but strange creatures she learns to adapt to her surrounding and made a life for herself.
Captain Beaux is hire to take some business people to find a planet that have natural resources. She doesn't really care or trust Drak and his associates but when he excuse her and crew of sabotaging she feels something is going on and vow to find out.
Moon who doesn't trust the government decide to keep a close on them. When she saves Beaux they are both drawn to each other and they both must rely on each other to save themselves and everyone when they get attack.
I love sci-fi books and this was a good read.
Moon born a slave she has been stationed on a trader ship for twenty years when a chance to escape happened she take it. She vow never to be take again and go by the named her mother given her Moon and not the name of the people who had her 833 sge landed on planet that seems to have no human life but strange creatures she learns to adapt to her surrounding and made a life for herself.
Captain Beaux is hire to take some business people to find a planet that have natural resources. She doesn't really care or trust Drak and his associates but when he excuse her and crew of sabotaging she feels something is going on and vow to find out.
Moon who doesn't trust the government decide to keep a close on them. When she saves Beaux they are both drawn to each other and they both must rely on each other to save themselves and everyone when they get attack.
I love sci-fi books and this was a good read.
December 14, 2019
I loved it! It is a story that I will go back to again and again. I have a lot of Gun Brooke books on my bookshelves and have rated them highly on Goodreads. When I read the other reviews that are currently posted I was really disappointed in the reviewers, as they seem to grade down the stars given for rather minor imperfections. This story flows smoothly from start to finish and is hard to put down. The characters are interesting, especially Moon as more and more of her back story is filled in and Dancer as more and more of his back story is filled in. The story might be a little 'over the top' on environmentalism, but being a fan of Greta Thunberg I did not really think so. One of the features of this story that really rang true for me is that I have lived alone for the last fifty years and have only rare physical contact with other people. I think this is captured extremely well in the story as Beaux has to work her way through Moon's years of isolation from any human touch and even longer from any loving touch.
November 16, 2019
I believe Gun Brooke writes the best lesfic space sci-fi. When you read this book (and her others like The Supreme Constellations series) you feel immersed in the story like it could really be happening. It feels so realistic that as you bond with the characters you forget you're reading something that couldn't possibly happen for centuries. I love her characters, especially the underdogs like Moon (and Kellen from SC) who are so strong and capable despite the terrible things they endured in their pasts. The strong and determined leaders like Beaux (and Rae from SC) becomes the ones who are saved. The ending was absolutely perfect. I highly recommend this book and all of Gun Brooke's works, sci-fi or not.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 29, 2019
A great read. I’m a Brooke fan and a huge fan of sci-fi
I don’t think it is Brooke’s best but I would still recommend it to sci-fi.
The two main characters are very likeable and easy to connect with.
If I recommend this book? absolutly!
I don’t think it is Brooke’s best but I would still recommend it to sci-fi.
The two main characters are very likeable and easy to connect with.
If I recommend this book? absolutly!
January 19, 2020
Ok read, it missing a lot
This was an ok read. Beginning was great, but this story was missing a lot. Other than haven World building was almost non-existent and even that was never really explained that well.
Motivations and backstory of almost all the people except for moon was barely there.
Relationships were not developed as well and the captain of a starship gives up everything to live on a planet with moon. Moon doesn’t give up anything.....moon and the captain’s relationship felt sort of forced because we didn’t have a lot of time to see what their dreams and motivations and who they really are.
Haven sounded interesting but not enough time to truly explore its secrets.
A lot of stuff happens but no single item from haven, to the other worlds, to the slave trade, to the galaxy, villains or romance. None of it was giving the time and focus it deserved.
Compromise could be reached where the captain could still be part of the galaxy and moon could be an ambassador for haven. While haven itself could provide a service to galaxy etc. so much lost potential.
This was an ok read. Beginning was great, but this story was missing a lot. Other than haven World building was almost non-existent and even that was never really explained that well.
Motivations and backstory of almost all the people except for moon was barely there.
Relationships were not developed as well and the captain of a starship gives up everything to live on a planet with moon. Moon doesn’t give up anything.....moon and the captain’s relationship felt sort of forced because we didn’t have a lot of time to see what their dreams and motivations and who they really are.
Haven sounded interesting but not enough time to truly explore its secrets.
A lot of stuff happens but no single item from haven, to the other worlds, to the slave trade, to the galaxy, villains or romance. None of it was giving the time and focus it deserved.
Compromise could be reached where the captain could still be part of the galaxy and moon could be an ambassador for haven. While haven itself could provide a service to galaxy etc. so much lost potential.
October 6, 2020
After a couple of books that were just OK, I enjoyed this book a lot. Moon escapes a spaceship attacked by pirates and lands on a lovely planet she names Haven. She’s alone for four years except for a canine-like animal, Dancer, she raised from a baby. Then along comes another ship, captained by Beaux, which is delivering some miners and company officials exploring this new planet. Of course, things happen. Because this is an entirely new world that not even Moon fully understands, the reader never knows what will happen or why, at least as far as the planet and its inhabitants. The corporate types are kind of predictable in their greed but even that had a twist. Brooke slowly reveals clues throughout and at the end is yet another surprise. Meanwhile, Beaux and Moon grow closer despite their differences and a secret Moon is hiding. The romance isn't strong, which due to my own quirks isn't a problem for me, but if you want romance this may not be for you. Read this for the adventure and world-building. (Haven sounds like a wonderful place to live.) Brooke kept my attention all day with this novel.
February 8, 2020
Lunar Eclipse is a sci fi novel. Ms. Brooke is one of the few sci fi writers whose work I enjoy.
Captain Beaux Lestarion is the captain of the ship which is transporting a company of exploratory miners who are interested in the minerals and other elements possibly found on this planet. Moon de Cruz is a young woman who has had a difficult life. Her first 20 years were spent as a slave on a Bramalian trader ship. She escapes during a pirate attack on this ship and eventually ends up on the uninhabited planet. She has lived on this planet which she names “Haven”.
One very interesting character is the pseudo dog named “Dancer”. Moon raises Dancer from the time he is a pup. It is very interesting that Moon and Dancer can communicate. He can sense things that help to protect Moon on this new planet.
As I have found with many sci fi and paranormal books, it is sometimes difficult initially to get into the story. I believe this is caused by the introduction of different types of characters and story settings. However, if readers give it a chance, good sci fi will be worth the preliminary work of learning the dialogue and plot. This book is worth it! Yes, it was challenging for the first chapter or two, but after that it was smooth sailing.
If you like romances, Lunar Eclipse is for you. I highly recommend this book and give it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Captain Beaux Lestarion is the captain of the ship which is transporting a company of exploratory miners who are interested in the minerals and other elements possibly found on this planet. Moon de Cruz is a young woman who has had a difficult life. Her first 20 years were spent as a slave on a Bramalian trader ship. She escapes during a pirate attack on this ship and eventually ends up on the uninhabited planet. She has lived on this planet which she names “Haven”.
One very interesting character is the pseudo dog named “Dancer”. Moon raises Dancer from the time he is a pup. It is very interesting that Moon and Dancer can communicate. He can sense things that help to protect Moon on this new planet.
As I have found with many sci fi and paranormal books, it is sometimes difficult initially to get into the story. I believe this is caused by the introduction of different types of characters and story settings. However, if readers give it a chance, good sci fi will be worth the preliminary work of learning the dialogue and plot. This book is worth it! Yes, it was challenging for the first chapter or two, but after that it was smooth sailing.
If you like romances, Lunar Eclipse is for you. I highly recommend this book and give it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 23, 2019
I rec'd an ARC from NetGalley/Bold Stroke Books for an un-biased review.
A sci-fi story with romance and angst featuring the planet Haven and leads Moon and Beaux with wonderful descriptions of animals and plants that make the world of Haven come alive in Ms. Brooke's unique way. This is a slow moving action filled and evolving tale that made me long for more. Is there a series in the offing?? Another crisply written book from the author.
I recommend with 4.5 stars
A sci-fi story with romance and angst featuring the planet Haven and leads Moon and Beaux with wonderful descriptions of animals and plants that make the world of Haven come alive in Ms. Brooke's unique way. This is a slow moving action filled and evolving tale that made me long for more. Is there a series in the offing?? Another crisply written book from the author.
I recommend with 4.5 stars
February 29, 2024
Satisfying Sci-fi Romance
I've always loved sci-fi, but have been mostly disappointed with sapphic sci-fi. This book has everything I've been looking for with a subtle, slow developing romantic relationship to boot. It's a very satisfying book: interesting characters, a plausible yet unique plot, twists and turns, and easy to read. I found it hard to put down. This book is just plain fun, and I'll be reading more of Gun Brooke's offerings!
I've always loved sci-fi, but have been mostly disappointed with sapphic sci-fi. This book has everything I've been looking for with a subtle, slow developing romantic relationship to boot. It's a very satisfying book: interesting characters, a plausible yet unique plot, twists and turns, and easy to read. I found it hard to put down. This book is just plain fun, and I'll be reading more of Gun Brooke's offerings!
January 14, 2020
A good sci-fi novel gives you equipment and opportunities that don't exist right now but lets you believe it's completely normal and within our expectations of the future. Gun Brooke manages to do just that with this book, her story is set on the recentely discovered planet Haven which has an defense mechanism against actions that harm the planet and its ecosystem. Wouldn't we love to have that for Earth... sure souds like an idyllic place to place as long you respect your environment.
Ofcourse there is also romance, like we would expect, between a slave who has lived on that planet for 4 years after being the sole survivor when her space ship exploded and the captain that arrives on Haven to transport employees of a company sent out to drill for the resources on Haven. I felt the romance could have used a few more pages, there's a lot of action in the plot and the relationship between the main characters went from kiss to future plans. Which I didn't mind too much because I enjoyed the action and description of the planet but if you are looking for a really mushy romance, this is not the book for you. For any (starting) sci-fi reader who enjoys a romantic development between two women to with it this is a very good pick!
***This book was gracefully sent to me by Bold Stroke Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. ***
Ofcourse there is also romance, like we would expect, between a slave who has lived on that planet for 4 years after being the sole survivor when her space ship exploded and the captain that arrives on Haven to transport employees of a company sent out to drill for the resources on Haven. I felt the romance could have used a few more pages, there's a lot of action in the plot and the relationship between the main characters went from kiss to future plans. Which I didn't mind too much because I enjoyed the action and description of the planet but if you are looking for a really mushy romance, this is not the book for you. For any (starting) sci-fi reader who enjoys a romantic development between two women to with it this is a very good pick!
***This book was gracefully sent to me by Bold Stroke Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. ***
February 29, 2024
I fell in love with this sci-fi romance and it’s characters. I love the premise and the setting but I especially love the characters.
Moon is awe inspiring in her kindness, steadfast determination, and resilience in the face of tragedy and oppression. Her strength and compassion draws you in and doesn’t let you go.
Beaux is confident and sweet. She leads with conviction and strength. She shows kindness as well and is easy to like.
The connection and attraction between the two is strong and sweet. Their interactions are fun and exciting. They both show how capable and caring they are throughout the book.
Dancer is endearing and loyal. He is a great friend and really cares for Moon and Beaux. He also often stole the show with his loveable nature.
The planet where the story takes place is fascinating and entrancing. I love the wildlife and how Moon interacts with the world around her and will do anything to protect it.
I enjoyed the flow of the story and it’s culmination. Brooke did an excellent job weaving this story and I loved every minute of it.
Moon is awe inspiring in her kindness, steadfast determination, and resilience in the face of tragedy and oppression. Her strength and compassion draws you in and doesn’t let you go.
Beaux is confident and sweet. She leads with conviction and strength. She shows kindness as well and is easy to like.
The connection and attraction between the two is strong and sweet. Their interactions are fun and exciting. They both show how capable and caring they are throughout the book.
Dancer is endearing and loyal. He is a great friend and really cares for Moon and Beaux. He also often stole the show with his loveable nature.
The planet where the story takes place is fascinating and entrancing. I love the wildlife and how Moon interacts with the world around her and will do anything to protect it.
I enjoyed the flow of the story and it’s culmination. Brooke did an excellent job weaving this story and I loved every minute of it.
December 8, 2019
A good and very creative, sci-fi, exploration, fighting-for-your-life-against-man-and-beast tale. Fast paced and good world building.
After escaping slavery via an escape pod before the cruise ship on which she was enslaved exploded, Moon De Cruz crash lands on the pristine and uninhabited planet of Haven. Four years later, Beaux - a ship's captain - is hired to bring a mining company to the newly-discovered planet for initial reconnaissance and sampling.
The mining company has nefarious plans which Moon is hell-bent on sabotaging. Beaux and her crew are stuck in the middle. After finding and befriending Moon and uncovering the malice behind the mining executives on Haven, Beaux wants to help Moon. However, Haven itself begins to fight back.
After escaping slavery via an escape pod before the cruise ship on which she was enslaved exploded, Moon De Cruz crash lands on the pristine and uninhabited planet of Haven. Four years later, Beaux - a ship's captain - is hired to bring a mining company to the newly-discovered planet for initial reconnaissance and sampling.
The mining company has nefarious plans which Moon is hell-bent on sabotaging. Beaux and her crew are stuck in the middle. After finding and befriending Moon and uncovering the malice behind the mining executives on Haven, Beaux wants to help Moon. However, Haven itself begins to fight back.
December 11, 2019
I honestly loved the book. The imagery of the alien plant and creatures that Gun creates is absolutely beautiful. The interactions between Dancer and Moon makes my heart happy. I really enjoyed the developing relationship between Moon and Beaux. When Beaux tells Moon she won’t leave her I almost cried. Only thing wish for, is more time to watch the intimacy between them evolve and grow. I cried, at the end, when Beaux revels to Moon that she truly is a free woman. I would love to see more of Haven and all the inhabitants who live there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2019
5 stars
This is yet another amazing story from the author that never disappoints with her books. It's a real page turning fast paced action romantic speculative fiction that kept me gripped all the way through. Very interesting plot, two great leads, an array of very original minor characters, nice age gap romance. Gun Brooke's next book can't come soon enough.
eARC via NetGalley
This is yet another amazing story from the author that never disappoints with her books. It's a real page turning fast paced action romantic speculative fiction that kept me gripped all the way through. Very interesting plot, two great leads, an array of very original minor characters, nice age gap romance. Gun Brooke's next book can't come soon enough.
eARC via NetGalley
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