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The Underground Moon
Summers in Tennessee are unfamiliar to fifteen-year-old Rosella Gill, who spent her life growing up in Oregon. But after a traumatic event with her mother that left their family in shambles, Rosella doesn’t plan on seeing her old home again any time soon. Together with her mother and seven-year-old sister Hettie, Rosella finds herself ripped from her old life as they move in with her aunt. Though she doesn’t mind Tennessee, the town they live in is rural and stagnant. Things get surprisingly more interesting, however, when she and Hettie come across a well hidden in a nearby forest and a staircase that descends into it. Underneath, they find a moonlit lake and a forest with trees boasting intricate carvings of children’s faces. Above it all shines an underground moon, which grows a little fuller every time they return. After meeting a man with a haunted past, Rosella begins to realize that the world is not as innocent as it seems, and it has a particular target: her sister.
372 pages, Paperback
First published July 14, 2020
11 people are currently reading
225 people want to read
About the author
Melissa K. Magner
3 books78 followersMelissa K. Magner began writing as a child and never stopped. Inspired by her late grandmother, Patricia M. Kaspar, she writes fantasy novels infused with elements of science fiction, horror, and mystery. She has found freedom in the indie world, crafting unconventional stories about heroines who come into their own power and find love through family, friendship, and self-discovery. Her work has received critical acclaim from IndieReader, Readers’ Favorite, and the BookLife Prize by Publishers Weekly.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
June 10, 2022
Underground Moon is an intriguing read. Magner’s style is deceptively easy to read, and she leads you into a situation that is hauntingly beautiful and yet terrifyingly evil. Her main protagonists, Rosella and Hettie, are victims of a dysfunctional family. Having to move home to Tennessee with their almost catatonically depressed mother, to live with their aunt, they struggle to find new friends and settle. She finds a friend, Ava, and they share their loneliness.
In this vulnerable state, they discover a well that contains an imaginary world that only the young and needy can see. This beautiful world uncannily matches itself to their needs. The Underground Moon takes a darker twist and, like a drug, becomes addictive to those who venture into its realm.
This YA novel deals with issues of family, responsibility, being accepted, same-sex attraction, and sibling bonds. It is a chilling account of the difficulties of living, and the strength of the human spirit. A modern fairy tale with hope being the winner.
In this vulnerable state, they discover a well that contains an imaginary world that only the young and needy can see. This beautiful world uncannily matches itself to their needs. The Underground Moon takes a darker twist and, like a drug, becomes addictive to those who venture into its realm.
This YA novel deals with issues of family, responsibility, being accepted, same-sex attraction, and sibling bonds. It is a chilling account of the difficulties of living, and the strength of the human spirit. A modern fairy tale with hope being the winner.
November 4, 2023
I chose this book because of the cover (pretty, spooky aesthetics are to die for) but the story is as good if not better. It felt like a fairytale at first, especially the beauty of the world below the well, but as the moon grows, the fairytale disappears and things get way more ominous. I adored Ro, Hettie, Ava, and Wayne, but the villain in this story is unmatched. The way it never says a word but you know it is communicating with Hettie, the way it learns about its victims and what they want, the way it gets into Ro’s and Wayne’s dreams when it is threatened by them, the way it keeps its victims literally memorialized in trees, had me legit scared! When I say this is one of the creepiest villains I’ve read I’m not kidding. The book has many layers, like fantasy, horror, family drama, and mystery. It is perfect for every age, young adults and teens mostly, but tweens on the older side too. It’s very creepy and imaginative and sad at some parts too. Highly highly highly recommend to readers who like atmospheric horror and want something unique.
May 18, 2021
wow times 100! really suspenseful, and boy is Magner good at upping the creep factor x a thousand as the book goes on
February 20, 2021
There is no better way to sum up my reaction to this eerie, heart-breaking, terrifying, and inspiring book other than this:
This was a TREAT to read, my gosh. The way the horror of the underground moon/world creeps up on you as a reader is commendable as hell, and the characters are written beautifully, especially the sister bond. This may be one of the best indie novels I've read (if not one of my new favs overall). There's a mix of Gaiman and King vibes, but also something a little different in this book that creates a voice and narrative structure all its own, and legit the whole read I was either emotional, unsettled, or choked up. I don't know if I can call this book "YA" or "horror" or "dark fantasy" because it's all of the above and none at all. And that was part of what made it such a delight.
This was a TREAT to read, my gosh. The way the horror of the underground moon/world creeps up on you as a reader is commendable as hell, and the characters are written beautifully, especially the sister bond. This may be one of the best indie novels I've read (if not one of my new favs overall). There's a mix of Gaiman and King vibes, but also something a little different in this book that creates a voice and narrative structure all its own, and legit the whole read I was either emotional, unsettled, or choked up. I don't know if I can call this book "YA" or "horror" or "dark fantasy" because it's all of the above and none at all. And that was part of what made it such a delight.
August 3, 2025
“I see the place for what it truly is: a graveyard of children.”
The Underground Moon is an atmospheric horror novel that sits squarely in the young adult bracket, in my view best suited for readers ages 11-16 who are drawn to eerie paranormal stories that lean into emotions, supernatural and evil disguised as beauty over jump scares. This is not an adult horror novel and it does not try to be, but don’t underestimate it. There are moments like the line above that sent chills.
Even though I don’t read teen books like I used to, I enjoy this author’s writing and the thematic bite of her style, this ones no different. For older audiences, instances of clarity over subtly might not work for them, but when I put myself in the shoes of a young horror-loving teen, it feels appropriate and expected. Did I like it as much as I loved Of the Sun and Sea? No, but that is to be expected precisely because of the age rating. I still see the author’s writing style and love of characters across the books however.
Simply put this is a story about two sisters trying to survive the neglect of a depressed parent while a supernatural force preys on their vulnerability. Rosella is the kind of protagonist I do not frequently see in novels of this age group, she is cautious, grounded, emotionally mature, yet young in the way she tries so hard to be older than she is. She makes clever choices and she protects her sister, but you never forget she is still a child who is desperate for help, for someone to be the adult her mother can’t be. That desperation is what makes her putting her hope into Wayne so affecting. It is not that she trusts easily but she has run out of options. The tragedy of Wayne’s character, broken by the force now after Rosella’s young sister, Hettie, is lingering and unsettling. His final act in addition to Rosella realizing why he was against helping her initially, was a satisfying emotional tie up that shows the moon as a parasitic entity, while letting Wayne wield his last power over it.
Rosella’s relationship with Hettie is certainly the star of the novel, rooted in deep love and sisterhood. Her relationship with her mother, Gianna, is emotionally impactful and honest about how maddening it is to love someone who refuses to get help and how much it costs a kid to pick up the slack, yet Gianna is not painted as a villain, just someone who is sick. But the story also does not make excuses for the damage she does even if it isn’t something she does maliciously. It was done well, doubly so in a novel intended for teenagers. I cannot skip over Rosella’s relationship with Ava, who was a necessary addition to the cast. I loved moments where Rosella and Ava acted like real teenagers, talking about real things and bonding over loneliness. It made them even more likable and realistic.
This book is a depiction of emotional grooming, in how the moon isolates its victims by offering them what they want. It manipulates Hettie with false comfort and promise of belonging. The fact that it is ultimately brought down by the very person it once destroyed is poetic without being heavy handed or a deus ex machina, rather, it is built up to with care. That is what I deeply appreciate about this author’s writing, is she leans into intricacy in a way that sets up the book for emotional fullness. The most memorable part of the story for me is when the world under the well starts to collapse, and Rosella realizes the forest and the moon’s domain was never expansive, but only as big as a single room, a psychic construct built from grief and memory.
In the end, this book is a story about siblings, more specifically two older siblings, Wayne and Rosella, one who failed and has to live with it, as the moon took Wayne’s younger sister Lila years ago, and one who still has a chance to save her younger sister. It is about survival, not just from monsters, and that really sticks the landing. It is a dark horror fairytale-gone-wrong, especially suited for teenage readers who prefer haunted mysteries that simmer.
The Underground Moon is an atmospheric horror novel that sits squarely in the young adult bracket, in my view best suited for readers ages 11-16 who are drawn to eerie paranormal stories that lean into emotions, supernatural and evil disguised as beauty over jump scares. This is not an adult horror novel and it does not try to be, but don’t underestimate it. There are moments like the line above that sent chills.
Even though I don’t read teen books like I used to, I enjoy this author’s writing and the thematic bite of her style, this ones no different. For older audiences, instances of clarity over subtly might not work for them, but when I put myself in the shoes of a young horror-loving teen, it feels appropriate and expected. Did I like it as much as I loved Of the Sun and Sea? No, but that is to be expected precisely because of the age rating. I still see the author’s writing style and love of characters across the books however.
Simply put this is a story about two sisters trying to survive the neglect of a depressed parent while a supernatural force preys on their vulnerability. Rosella is the kind of protagonist I do not frequently see in novels of this age group, she is cautious, grounded, emotionally mature, yet young in the way she tries so hard to be older than she is. She makes clever choices and she protects her sister, but you never forget she is still a child who is desperate for help, for someone to be the adult her mother can’t be. That desperation is what makes her putting her hope into Wayne so affecting. It is not that she trusts easily but she has run out of options. The tragedy of Wayne’s character, broken by the force now after Rosella’s young sister, Hettie, is lingering and unsettling. His final act in addition to Rosella realizing why he was against helping her initially, was a satisfying emotional tie up that shows the moon as a parasitic entity, while letting Wayne wield his last power over it.
Rosella’s relationship with Hettie is certainly the star of the novel, rooted in deep love and sisterhood. Her relationship with her mother, Gianna, is emotionally impactful and honest about how maddening it is to love someone who refuses to get help and how much it costs a kid to pick up the slack, yet Gianna is not painted as a villain, just someone who is sick. But the story also does not make excuses for the damage she does even if it isn’t something she does maliciously. It was done well, doubly so in a novel intended for teenagers. I cannot skip over Rosella’s relationship with Ava, who was a necessary addition to the cast. I loved moments where Rosella and Ava acted like real teenagers, talking about real things and bonding over loneliness. It made them even more likable and realistic.
This book is a depiction of emotional grooming, in how the moon isolates its victims by offering them what they want. It manipulates Hettie with false comfort and promise of belonging. The fact that it is ultimately brought down by the very person it once destroyed is poetic without being heavy handed or a deus ex machina, rather, it is built up to with care. That is what I deeply appreciate about this author’s writing, is she leans into intricacy in a way that sets up the book for emotional fullness. The most memorable part of the story for me is when the world under the well starts to collapse, and Rosella realizes the forest and the moon’s domain was never expansive, but only as big as a single room, a psychic construct built from grief and memory.
In the end, this book is a story about siblings, more specifically two older siblings, Wayne and Rosella, one who failed and has to live with it, as the moon took Wayne’s younger sister Lila years ago, and one who still has a chance to save her younger sister. It is about survival, not just from monsters, and that really sticks the landing. It is a dark horror fairytale-gone-wrong, especially suited for teenage readers who prefer haunted mysteries that simmer.
October 14, 2023
low fantasy, ya-middle grade is my comfort genre, but this author has a way of taking those genres and then punching you repeatedly in the gut with them. this book hurt me. it made me sad and spooked at the same time. but somehow it was also an incredibly touching story about the love of siblings and friends
September 24, 2022
Loved the depiction of the sisters
The theme of the book concerns neglected children, as explained by this quote from one of the characters:
“How convenient, then, for the world to swallow them up while nobody is looking.”
It’s also beautifully illustrated by Viktoria Davydova.
I loved the beginning of this book. Rosella and Hettie are sisters. They’re close, perhaps closer than most because of their absent father and depressed mother. When they move to live with their aunt, the two sisters need each other more than ever.
I loved the depiction of the sisters. As a person with many sisters, and with the same age gap between me and my next sister as between the characters in this book, I felt the representation was very realistic. Hettie reminded me of myself at that age, and I could be equally as bratty and annoying. Rosella’s love for her sister as well as the heavy burden of being the only responsible adult in their life is well done.
I equally loved the depiction of Ro and Hettie’s parents. It’s realistic but compassionately done.
The world of the underground moon is beautifully described and extremely atmospheric and creepy, at least in the first part of the book, and it’s a great concept.
Unfortunately, I found the story started to lag in the middle of the book. My suspension of disbelief was broken by the characters sitting outside an apartment to find out if a certain person lived in it. Ro had already looked up this character’s address in the phone book, and I’m surprised that the phone book in the mid nineties (when the story is set) didn’t list the apartment number. Also, surely either the buzzer to access the apartment complex or the communal mailboxes would list the apartment number beside the resident’s second name?
There is a lot of repetition in the middle section, with Ro pinning all her hopes on one character for help, and the same conversation being repeated several times. I didn’t find any of the characters’ behavior to be realistic, and I thought it was a shame that such an interesting idea wasn’t developed with more conflict and imagination.
Because of this, the ending lacked the emotional pay off I think the author intended. I also disagree with the idea behind the resolution. Things that steal innocence are usually the most corrupt and seek that which they don’t have. The conclusions the characters came to and the actions they took made no sense to me. I thought it was such a shame as the author writes well, had great characters and a wonderful idea. The story had such potential.
If you look at the potential deeper meaning of the book - how vulnerable children are preyed upon by perverted adults - the ending makes even less sense. I also disagree that innocence and purity are innate in children and nonexistent in adults.
Great idea, talented writer, beautifully presented book. Such a shame the idea and characters weren’t developed further to produce a more satisfying read.
The theme of the book concerns neglected children, as explained by this quote from one of the characters:
“How convenient, then, for the world to swallow them up while nobody is looking.”
It’s also beautifully illustrated by Viktoria Davydova.
I loved the beginning of this book. Rosella and Hettie are sisters. They’re close, perhaps closer than most because of their absent father and depressed mother. When they move to live with their aunt, the two sisters need each other more than ever.
I loved the depiction of the sisters. As a person with many sisters, and with the same age gap between me and my next sister as between the characters in this book, I felt the representation was very realistic. Hettie reminded me of myself at that age, and I could be equally as bratty and annoying. Rosella’s love for her sister as well as the heavy burden of being the only responsible adult in their life is well done.
I equally loved the depiction of Ro and Hettie’s parents. It’s realistic but compassionately done.
The world of the underground moon is beautifully described and extremely atmospheric and creepy, at least in the first part of the book, and it’s a great concept.
Unfortunately, I found the story started to lag in the middle of the book. My suspension of disbelief was broken by the characters sitting outside an apartment to find out if a certain person lived in it. Ro had already looked up this character’s address in the phone book, and I’m surprised that the phone book in the mid nineties (when the story is set) didn’t list the apartment number. Also, surely either the buzzer to access the apartment complex or the communal mailboxes would list the apartment number beside the resident’s second name?
There is a lot of repetition in the middle section, with Ro pinning all her hopes on one character for help, and the same conversation being repeated several times. I didn’t find any of the characters’ behavior to be realistic, and I thought it was a shame that such an interesting idea wasn’t developed with more conflict and imagination.
Because of this, the ending lacked the emotional pay off I think the author intended. I also disagree with the idea behind the resolution. Things that steal innocence are usually the most corrupt and seek that which they don’t have. The conclusions the characters came to and the actions they took made no sense to me. I thought it was such a shame as the author writes well, had great characters and a wonderful idea. The story had such potential.
If you look at the potential deeper meaning of the book - how vulnerable children are preyed upon by perverted adults - the ending makes even less sense. I also disagree that innocence and purity are innate in children and nonexistent in adults.
Great idea, talented writer, beautifully presented book. Such a shame the idea and characters weren’t developed further to produce a more satisfying read.
March 12, 2021
This book was different than a lot of books I’ve read....in a GREAT way. It mixes lots of genres like dark fantasy and horror and young adult. And there’s SO much to unpack. On the surface it’s a story of two sisters who find a fantastical forest beneath a well with a beautiful moon...but then the older sister, Rosella (Ro) realizes the world/moon is feeding off her younger sister, Hettie (& any children it lures in). But underneath there were sooooo many themes about suffering, pain, loss, trauma, drugs, childhood innocence & vulnerability, and growing up too fast. The last line actually made me cry the hardest and idk why. I’m kind of a crybaby but I was REALLY emotional. I also reallllly loved the female friendship! Reading Ro and Ava made me shocked because there’s not many books with genuine, non-toxic female friendship. On top of that, Wayne was one of the most tragic yet characters I’ve ever read, and the dynamic between Wayne, Ro, and Ava was really unique. They were an interesting trio brought together with common motivations, racing against time. I also love that the hero was not expected. The “twist” was done really well and going back I can see hints throughout the book, but I was still surprised! Consensus: 5/5.
For more reviews and book boards, visit my IG! @katiebreads
For more reviews and book boards, visit my IG! @katiebreads
September 5, 2020
I read Magner’s debut novel Jinx a year back and I was a really big fan of it, so when I saw on Goodreads that The Underground Moon was released, I jumped right on buying it…and I will happily say, it's a good one. It’s rare to find a small/indie author that really makes a presence and consistently writes books that keep readers hooked, so I’m really happy I came across this small niche of YA. The characters in this novel were really what made it…I have an older sister who is a lot like Ro [kind of cautious and a little bossy, but always looked out for me] and some of the conversations Ro and Hettie had made me tear up. I also love, love, love Rosella and Ava’s relationship (not gonna lie, I kind of shipped them at some points, but it’s a rare book where main characters don’t end up together in some sense of the word, and the Ava/Ro platonic bond (and mother-like bond to Hettie) truly tugged at my heartstrings.) Also, the illustrations were a beautiful touch, I rarely see those in longer novels.
January 19, 2021
I give a spoiler-free positive review of The Underground Moon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpOKy...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpOKy...
July 24, 2021
I've of my life read maybe five books in my life that have left me inspired, touched, in awe, and a hot freaking mess. This book is one of them. I swear, I will slap anyone who says indie books aren't on the same level as trad. books, because this book surpasses most of the trads I have read. It's original, it's fantastical, it's haunting as hell.... buckle up because I cannot contain myself. Also, there may be *SPOILERS* - you've been warned.
For starters, this is exactly my kinda book - a mix of urban fantasy and dark fantasy and horror and YA...it reminds me a King book for a slightly younger audience. But there's also a lot of subverted tropes, especially when it comes to the YA part of the book.
Run-down:
The book follows Rosella and her little sister Hettie after they moved to Tennessee to live with their aunt after their mom attempted suicide. Because of how severely depressed their mother is, Rosella finds herself as Hettie's 2nd parent, and because of this they spend a lot of time together. When exploring a forest near their aunt's house, Hettie and Rosella find a well in a grove and stairs leading into it, and when they finally go beneath, they find a little forest with an underground moon. And this part really creeped me out while i was reading- every tree in the forest has a child's face carved on it. But the girls keep returning and every time they are greeted with some kind of cool thing like music and jewelry, or animals, or something. And Rosella notices the moon grows a little bit each time. In the interest of not spoiling TOO much, Rosella begins to realize the place is "off" but she's a bit too late because Hettie is slowly losing herself to the place and becoming obsessed with it. So Rosella ends up teaming up with Ava (a girl she meets who ends up becoming her friend, who was probably my favorite character) and Wayne (a middle-aged man with terrifying and tragic connections to the well) to rush against time for a cause that's LITERALLY life and death. I'll shut up here.
Characters:
The main character is a 15 y/o gal named Rosella who basically, from the start, is in charge of her little sister Hettie, who is 7. And let me just say, the accurate representation of children was astonishing. I have read a lot of books with kids in it, but they're either too mature, too immature, or just unrealistic in what they want and do. Hettie felt just right. She's dependent but not a baby, she can voice her thoughts and feelings but also has limited experience, and she treats her older sister the same way my young sis used to treat me lol...they love us, but also hate us when we tell them what to do. Rosella (Ro) was also great as a character. There are times when she feels overly-mature, but then you remember what she had to go through with her mom's suicide attempt and you're like "oh shit, right. There's a reason why she's like this." Ro is also refreshing in a lot of senses because traditional YA females always seem to be ultra-brave and out there, but Ro is cautious. And she also IS NOT INTERESTED IN ROMANCE. In YA, that's practically unheard of. For a hot minute I thought maybe she and Ava would get together at the end, but they don't, and while I was a little shocked, I was also impressed. There's LGBTQ+ rep (Ava is gay ), and Ro supports her and Ava even gets a scene where she stands up to a girl she liked but who turned on her, but that's it. It isn't forced where the two of them get together simply because Ava's gay. In fact, Ro lowkey gives me ace vibes?. It's not explicitly stated, but I wonder. Now onto Wayne. If you like heroes you don't expect, Wayne's your guy. I kind of had a feeling about Wayne's backstory/that he was connected to the well, but his motivations are really fleshed out and he's given TERRIFYING and TRAGIC reasons as to why he's the way he is. I'll stop myself here because the decision made at the end really had me f*cked up and shocked.
Themes:
So there were a lot of themes I noticed, the first being the vulnerability of kids. There were A LOT of relevant implications about the danger a lot of kids find themselves in because of predators (in this case that would be the underground moon because it preys on kids so it can eat), and also a lot of subtle nods to how frustrating it is when kids are dismissed and how it only puts them in more danger. Another theme I liked was mental illness. There's A LOT of mental illness in this book - the first is the mom's depression and her suicide attempt. The memory of the attempt is lead up to gradually and is done in a really great way, and the book also doesn't make the mom out to be a shitty person because of what she's been through and how it manifests in her being an absent parent. She's a side character so the depression is experienced through Rosella's perception of it, but I really like how Magner made Rosella sway between resentment and guilt and anxiety...it felt really realistic and how a person may actually react in this situation, especially as a kid. Then there's PTSD and alcoholism, which Wayne has, and also trauma that Hettie and Ro deal with because of their mom and how it makes them prime targets for the underground moon. This is probably where I should say this book gets heavy at times, but these sensitive issues aren't just thrown around, they're really examined and looked at under both a fantasy and realistic lens and there's no real "value-driven" commentary on things like depression, PTSD, neglect, and so on. It's just there with all of its complexity, and nothing is "cured" by the end, there's just more hope for a fixer-upper future.
TLDR:
What I liked: Fantastical storyline with real world implications/commentary, great rep. of kids (Hettie but also Ava/Ro with teens), LGBTQ+ rep (Ava and possibly Ro?), realistic mental illness depiction (mother & Wayne mostly), creepy as hell (all of it), style of writing
What I didn't like: it could've been longer??? Maybe gone even deeper into a backstory with Wayne? But I also kind of liked the length because it suits ya-focused audiences so....I'm out of ideas.
Anyways, to those of your that read my review, thank you! This book is definitely geared toward teens/young adults but I can see older adults reading it to and appreciating some of the themes I noticed. This book made me all kinds of unsettled, all kinds of emotional, and all kinds of glad I read it.
For starters, this is exactly my kinda book - a mix of urban fantasy and dark fantasy and horror and YA...it reminds me a King book for a slightly younger audience. But there's also a lot of subverted tropes, especially when it comes to the YA part of the book.
Run-down:
The book follows Rosella and her little sister Hettie after they moved to Tennessee to live with their aunt after their mom attempted suicide. Because of how severely depressed their mother is, Rosella finds herself as Hettie's 2nd parent, and because of this they spend a lot of time together. When exploring a forest near their aunt's house, Hettie and Rosella find a well in a grove and stairs leading into it, and when they finally go beneath, they find a little forest with an underground moon. And this part really creeped me out while i was reading- every tree in the forest has a child's face carved on it. But the girls keep returning and every time they are greeted with some kind of cool thing like music and jewelry, or animals, or something. And Rosella notices the moon grows a little bit each time. In the interest of not spoiling TOO much, Rosella begins to realize the place is "off" but she's a bit too late because Hettie is slowly losing herself to the place and becoming obsessed with it. So Rosella ends up teaming up with Ava (a girl she meets who ends up becoming her friend, who was probably my favorite character) and Wayne (a middle-aged man with terrifying and tragic connections to the well) to rush against time for a cause that's LITERALLY life and death. I'll shut up here.
Characters:
The main character is a 15 y/o gal named Rosella who basically, from the start, is in charge of her little sister Hettie, who is 7. And let me just say, the accurate representation of children was astonishing. I have read a lot of books with kids in it, but they're either too mature, too immature, or just unrealistic in what they want and do. Hettie felt just right. She's dependent but not a baby, she can voice her thoughts and feelings but also has limited experience, and she treats her older sister the same way my young sis used to treat me lol...they love us, but also hate us when we tell them what to do. Rosella (Ro) was also great as a character. There are times when she feels overly-mature, but then you remember what she had to go through with her mom's suicide attempt and you're like "oh shit, right. There's a reason why she's like this." Ro is also refreshing in a lot of senses because traditional YA females always seem to be ultra-brave and out there, but Ro is cautious. And she also IS NOT INTERESTED IN ROMANCE. In YA, that's practically unheard of. For a hot minute I thought maybe she and Ava would get together at the end, but they don't, and while I was a little shocked, I was also impressed. There's LGBTQ+ rep (Ava is gay ), and Ro supports her and Ava even gets a scene where she stands up to a girl she liked but who turned on her, but that's it. It isn't forced where the two of them get together simply because Ava's gay. In fact, Ro lowkey gives me ace vibes?. It's not explicitly stated, but I wonder. Now onto Wayne. If you like heroes you don't expect, Wayne's your guy. I kind of had a feeling about Wayne's backstory/that he was connected to the well, but his motivations are really fleshed out and he's given TERRIFYING and TRAGIC reasons as to why he's the way he is. I'll stop myself here because the decision made at the end really had me f*cked up and shocked.
Themes:
So there were a lot of themes I noticed, the first being the vulnerability of kids. There were A LOT of relevant implications about the danger a lot of kids find themselves in because of predators (in this case that would be the underground moon because it preys on kids so it can eat), and also a lot of subtle nods to how frustrating it is when kids are dismissed and how it only puts them in more danger. Another theme I liked was mental illness. There's A LOT of mental illness in this book - the first is the mom's depression and her suicide attempt. The memory of the attempt is lead up to gradually and is done in a really great way, and the book also doesn't make the mom out to be a shitty person because of what she's been through and how it manifests in her being an absent parent. She's a side character so the depression is experienced through Rosella's perception of it, but I really like how Magner made Rosella sway between resentment and guilt and anxiety...it felt really realistic and how a person may actually react in this situation, especially as a kid. Then there's PTSD and alcoholism, which Wayne has, and also trauma that Hettie and Ro deal with because of their mom and how it makes them prime targets for the underground moon. This is probably where I should say this book gets heavy at times, but these sensitive issues aren't just thrown around, they're really examined and looked at under both a fantasy and realistic lens and there's no real "value-driven" commentary on things like depression, PTSD, neglect, and so on. It's just there with all of its complexity, and nothing is "cured" by the end, there's just more hope for a fixer-upper future.
TLDR:
What I liked: Fantastical storyline with real world implications/commentary, great rep. of kids (Hettie but also Ava/Ro with teens), LGBTQ+ rep (Ava and possibly Ro?), realistic mental illness depiction (mother & Wayne mostly), creepy as hell (all of it), style of writing
What I didn't like: it could've been longer??? Maybe gone even deeper into a backstory with Wayne? But I also kind of liked the length because it suits ya-focused audiences so....I'm out of ideas.
Anyways, to those of your that read my review, thank you! This book is definitely geared toward teens/young adults but I can see older adults reading it to and appreciating some of the themes I noticed. This book made me all kinds of unsettled, all kinds of emotional, and all kinds of glad I read it.
March 9, 2022
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Immediately, I was captivated by the author's voice. Normally, I don't like urban fantasy/magical realism, but I loved this book. The descriptions are lyrical and also masterfully provide insight into the characters and plot. Also great - the tension, pervasive symbolism, and robust characterization. The dialogue is also realistic and well-done. Rosella is a compelling and likable character from the start.
I liked the themes of sisterhood, real life vs fantasy, and the role of nature (including the character names). I also love the drawings, including the tension the moon icons provided - art in YA should be more common!
I liked the themes of sisterhood, real life vs fantasy, and the role of nature (including the character names). I also love the drawings, including the tension the moon icons provided - art in YA should be more common!
April 2, 2021
oohh this book was good! It's like a creepy, haunting fairy tale that is set in the real world but ends up being more like a horror story than a fairy tale. But it also speaks to the broader issues of the things that lure and harm children and how being a child is so vulnerable and dangerous but can also be beautiful and magical, just like the underground world. definitely horror, dark fantasy, urban fantasy vibes but also goes beyond that to touch on real life issues, which made this such an intriguing book.
January 24, 2021
This is a wonderfully written book with a lot of important themes (under the umbrella of a dark fantasy-focused story). Once it got going, I literally could not put it down.
July 1, 2023
Just my kind of book. A beautiful fairytale gradually comes undone, revealing an unsettling truth, while also a heartfelt story about sisters.
December 23, 2023
Dark Fantasy, unlikely heroes
This book is an impressive depiction of how trauma and dysfunctional families can endanger kids. It’s done through the fantasy genre, but the parallels with reality were done well.
Spoilers will follow, so please only continue if you have read it or don't mind. Many books involve consequences of children not being listened to or dealing with being overlooked. A Series of Unfortunate Events comes to mind first. The Underground Moon takes those concepts and twists them into a story that is indeed similar to the poster villains of Gaiman and King. We see an entity that feeds on vulnerable children and capitalizes off the ignorance and absentness of adults. But the underground moon feels more similar to the Beldam than Pennywise. The moon shows children what they want and need; it lures them in, then poisons them. It learns everything from their names to what they wish for, then makes a fairytale world out of the victim’s desires to pull them in and take them over until it finally has enough of a hold on them to start eating. To make things creepier, the world (or the moon, essentially the brain of the world) keeps its victims memorialized in trees. It’s terrifying, morbid, and at the same time, not a conventional antagonist. This also made for an incredibly original and memorable concept.
The main character, Rosella, is a refreshing depiction of a teen. She is mature, responsible, and loving, while displaying logic that falls right in line with what would be expected of a teenager. Her determination is notable too. She is willing to take risks and push to help her sister even if this means grasping at straws. This was a sound parallel to reality: a teen doing what she can with nonexistent guidance won’t always make choices the way an adult would, but her ambition and courage are admirable.
Ava, Hettie, and Wayne are memorable side characters. In fact, all the side characters were distinct enough to not feel like part of the background, but rather characters with backstories who actively affect the plot. Ava specifically was a likable character. Her friendship with Rosella was written just as endearingly as Rosella and Hettie’s sisterhood. It was charming that Ava and Hettie got along well too and bonded over liking art. Wayne was a decidedly notable character too. Extra heartbreaking was his history with the moon and his devotion to his sister Lila, which was a strong mirror to Ro’s devotion to Hettie, and a haunting reminder of the moon’s lasting impact on its victims. The ending was wrapped up nicely, no loose ends. It was strong and emotional: a great example of the unlikely hero trope. It can be a risk to include the su*cide of a character, however, it can be done as a plot point but still executed carefully. For example, Lord Asriel and Mrs Coulter in The Amber Spyglass, Violet in American Horror Story, Nell in Haunting of Hill House, and more. Specifically, The Amber Spyglass mirrors The Underground Moon with death depicted as a heroic sacrifice, yet the plot is executed in the context of an impossible fantasy scenario, severing potential connections between character and reader. Likewise, the consequential grief felt after the fact makes it clear the death might have achieved a purpose, but overall has a negative impact on other characters, namely Ro and Ava. I also appreciated the “off camera” nature of the act, as well as Ro’s mother committing to get help for her own su*cidal ideation at the end of the book, which offered hope for the Gill family. Now, for the downsides of the book. There were a few instances where the story was slow, especially for readers into fast paced horror instead of psychological or supernatural. There’s not too much action in this book, minus the end and a few short scenes in the middle. For some readers, this may make the story boring. But I found that the eerie, “will she go back, won’t she go back” worries Rosella had with Hettie kept the suspense moving. Mirroring the moon’s gradual hold on its victims, the story carefully builds in eeriness, starting as more of a fantasy but culminating in more of a horror. It ties up neatly and is a good standalone, mostly for teens, but for adults too, especially those readers who enjoy something fantastical and sinister.
This book is an impressive depiction of how trauma and dysfunctional families can endanger kids. It’s done through the fantasy genre, but the parallels with reality were done well.
Spoilers will follow, so please only continue if you have read it or don't mind. Many books involve consequences of children not being listened to or dealing with being overlooked. A Series of Unfortunate Events comes to mind first. The Underground Moon takes those concepts and twists them into a story that is indeed similar to the poster villains of Gaiman and King. We see an entity that feeds on vulnerable children and capitalizes off the ignorance and absentness of adults. But the underground moon feels more similar to the Beldam than Pennywise. The moon shows children what they want and need; it lures them in, then poisons them. It learns everything from their names to what they wish for, then makes a fairytale world out of the victim’s desires to pull them in and take them over until it finally has enough of a hold on them to start eating. To make things creepier, the world (or the moon, essentially the brain of the world) keeps its victims memorialized in trees. It’s terrifying, morbid, and at the same time, not a conventional antagonist. This also made for an incredibly original and memorable concept.
The main character, Rosella, is a refreshing depiction of a teen. She is mature, responsible, and loving, while displaying logic that falls right in line with what would be expected of a teenager. Her determination is notable too. She is willing to take risks and push to help her sister even if this means grasping at straws. This was a sound parallel to reality: a teen doing what she can with nonexistent guidance won’t always make choices the way an adult would, but her ambition and courage are admirable.
Ava, Hettie, and Wayne are memorable side characters. In fact, all the side characters were distinct enough to not feel like part of the background, but rather characters with backstories who actively affect the plot. Ava specifically was a likable character. Her friendship with Rosella was written just as endearingly as Rosella and Hettie’s sisterhood. It was charming that Ava and Hettie got along well too and bonded over liking art. Wayne was a decidedly notable character too. Extra heartbreaking was his history with the moon and his devotion to his sister Lila, which was a strong mirror to Ro’s devotion to Hettie, and a haunting reminder of the moon’s lasting impact on its victims. The ending was wrapped up nicely, no loose ends. It was strong and emotional: a great example of the unlikely hero trope. It can be a risk to include the su*cide of a character, however, it can be done as a plot point but still executed carefully. For example, Lord Asriel and Mrs Coulter in The Amber Spyglass, Violet in American Horror Story, Nell in Haunting of Hill House, and more. Specifically, The Amber Spyglass mirrors The Underground Moon with death depicted as a heroic sacrifice, yet the plot is executed in the context of an impossible fantasy scenario, severing potential connections between character and reader. Likewise, the consequential grief felt after the fact makes it clear the death might have achieved a purpose, but overall has a negative impact on other characters, namely Ro and Ava. I also appreciated the “off camera” nature of the act, as well as Ro’s mother committing to get help for her own su*cidal ideation at the end of the book, which offered hope for the Gill family. Now, for the downsides of the book. There were a few instances where the story was slow, especially for readers into fast paced horror instead of psychological or supernatural. There’s not too much action in this book, minus the end and a few short scenes in the middle. For some readers, this may make the story boring. But I found that the eerie, “will she go back, won’t she go back” worries Rosella had with Hettie kept the suspense moving. Mirroring the moon’s gradual hold on its victims, the story carefully builds in eeriness, starting as more of a fantasy but culminating in more of a horror. It ties up neatly and is a good standalone, mostly for teens, but for adults too, especially those readers who enjoy something fantastical and sinister.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2025
I don’t always like first-person present tense, but it works well in this book. Seeing the story pan out through the eyes of a 15 year old who has been forced to grow up too fast made the book’s message that much more impactful. The themes of childhood, sisterhood (or just sibling-hood), and trauma were written extraordinarily. Rosella was a great protagonist.
The story follows Rosella and Hettie after they move to Tennessee with their mother to live with their aunt. Due to their mother’s struggle with mental health, the girls are pretty much on their own. Because of this, Rosella has adopted a role that is equal in parts “sister” and “mom” to Hettie. Though she worries about all things you’d expect a teen to worry about, like a new school, making new friends, and fitting in, she also finds herself looking after Hettie and trying to push down resentment for her mother, whose depression has cast an unintentional but harmful divide between herself and her children. When the girls come across a well that leads into a small, hidden world, they are entranced. The atmosphere is done beautifully here, from the trees to the underground moon itself. But not all is well. The creeping horror of the underground moon’s growth each time they return and the final revelation when the Rosella bird lands on Ro’s arm is built up tremendously.
With the help of a new friend, Ava, who is as lonely and lost as Ro, they try to keep Hettie from reentering the well, but something is off. The once talkative and outgoing Hettie has become dazed, withdrawn, and obsessed with the world beneath the well, moon most of all. But it turns out the three of them aren’t the only ones who can see it. A man named Wayne also can, the town recluse who spends most of his time either drunk or recovering from a hangover. When Ro pursues him and demands answers, she realizes that the well, or more specifically, the moon, has been taking children for generations and adding them to its growing collection of trees after feeding on them… and Wayne was the only victim to survive it.
Despite the YA/teen age rating, this book covers a lot. Childhood innocence is a theme, but so are the consequences of leaving children without guidance. The gray-area of “teens” comes into play, with Ro fighting between childhood and adulthood. But despite the roles Ro is caught between, she is at her core a loving, devoted sister. Ava is also a great supporting character, and the friendship between the two of them was written very well. Wayne, however, was my favorite character. The reasons why he was so against helping Rosella in the beginning shows the way trauma sticks with us which was shown in a more real sense in the moon’s constant presence in his life. The end, of course, was just as heart-breaking as it was a fitting end to the world and the moon’s predatory cycle.
This is a book that will leave you thinking about it long after you have put it away. It is more than just a dark fantasy, it is also a commentary, and an ode to childhood, friendships, and sisterhood.
The story follows Rosella and Hettie after they move to Tennessee with their mother to live with their aunt. Due to their mother’s struggle with mental health, the girls are pretty much on their own. Because of this, Rosella has adopted a role that is equal in parts “sister” and “mom” to Hettie. Though she worries about all things you’d expect a teen to worry about, like a new school, making new friends, and fitting in, she also finds herself looking after Hettie and trying to push down resentment for her mother, whose depression has cast an unintentional but harmful divide between herself and her children. When the girls come across a well that leads into a small, hidden world, they are entranced. The atmosphere is done beautifully here, from the trees to the underground moon itself. But not all is well. The creeping horror of the underground moon’s growth each time they return and the final revelation when the Rosella bird lands on Ro’s arm is built up tremendously.
With the help of a new friend, Ava, who is as lonely and lost as Ro, they try to keep Hettie from reentering the well, but something is off. The once talkative and outgoing Hettie has become dazed, withdrawn, and obsessed with the world beneath the well, moon most of all. But it turns out the three of them aren’t the only ones who can see it. A man named Wayne also can, the town recluse who spends most of his time either drunk or recovering from a hangover. When Ro pursues him and demands answers, she realizes that the well, or more specifically, the moon, has been taking children for generations and adding them to its growing collection of trees after feeding on them… and Wayne was the only victim to survive it.
Despite the YA/teen age rating, this book covers a lot. Childhood innocence is a theme, but so are the consequences of leaving children without guidance. The gray-area of “teens” comes into play, with Ro fighting between childhood and adulthood. But despite the roles Ro is caught between, she is at her core a loving, devoted sister. Ava is also a great supporting character, and the friendship between the two of them was written very well. Wayne, however, was my favorite character. The reasons why he was so against helping Rosella in the beginning shows the way trauma sticks with us which was shown in a more real sense in the moon’s constant presence in his life. The end, of course, was just as heart-breaking as it was a fitting end to the world and the moon’s predatory cycle.
This is a book that will leave you thinking about it long after you have put it away. It is more than just a dark fantasy, it is also a commentary, and an ode to childhood, friendships, and sisterhood.
October 22, 2022
Surprising Twists and Turns Ahead
Though this book appears to be a simple young adult and fantasy fiction story it is so much more. The author weaves a multi layered tale in 364 pages. This is a teen tale. This is a mystery story. This is a horror story. Add to that mix the author is building the relationship of Ro and Hettie which is the centerpiece of the story. Hettie is seven. Ro is fifteen or sixteen. That age difference is huge but not addressed clearly. As well there is the unsaid thing going on with the two girls mother and her ham-handed attempt to deal with it on her own and in her own way. There is the relationship with Aunt Vivian where the Gills are staying for the summer. As well as the real conflict within the story. The author takes on a bunch in this story. The concept is good. Really enjoyed the twist of the story and the discovery of the unexpected. It felt a little bit like Stephen King’s It at times. High praise. Yet juggling all these relationships and the threat with the inclusion of Ava and her personal issues and the mysterious Wayne with his issues took the story places that as a casual fantasy fiction reader might not have wanted to explore. There are a number of issues broached in this book. Be prepared. I understand that people have issues but the discovery and revelation of those things needed more time to feel organic. Not a slam. Ro appears incredibly bright at times but at other times incredibly naive. Just wanted more time to believe a bright girl would go alone to meet a drunk in his apartment. The storytelling is well-done, but there are moments where there is a push to familiarity that left me scratching my head as a reader. The monster story is interesting. This is a monster story and it is a good story. Really thought the author handled the monster story trope well. Enjoyed the characters. Ro is the main character and Hettie and Ava play second to Ro. Wish there was more time spent on the teen living alone in an apartment by herself. If there’s anything I would wish was done a little better it would be making Ro more accessible. The story is told mostly in Ro’s head. Though the main character is extremely introspective just wished that Ro’s dialogue and conversations felt more like a fifteen year old.
Though this book appears to be a simple young adult and fantasy fiction story it is so much more. The author weaves a multi layered tale in 364 pages. This is a teen tale. This is a mystery story. This is a horror story. Add to that mix the author is building the relationship of Ro and Hettie which is the centerpiece of the story. Hettie is seven. Ro is fifteen or sixteen. That age difference is huge but not addressed clearly. As well there is the unsaid thing going on with the two girls mother and her ham-handed attempt to deal with it on her own and in her own way. There is the relationship with Aunt Vivian where the Gills are staying for the summer. As well as the real conflict within the story. The author takes on a bunch in this story. The concept is good. Really enjoyed the twist of the story and the discovery of the unexpected. It felt a little bit like Stephen King’s It at times. High praise. Yet juggling all these relationships and the threat with the inclusion of Ava and her personal issues and the mysterious Wayne with his issues took the story places that as a casual fantasy fiction reader might not have wanted to explore. There are a number of issues broached in this book. Be prepared. I understand that people have issues but the discovery and revelation of those things needed more time to feel organic. Not a slam. Ro appears incredibly bright at times but at other times incredibly naive. Just wanted more time to believe a bright girl would go alone to meet a drunk in his apartment. The storytelling is well-done, but there are moments where there is a push to familiarity that left me scratching my head as a reader. The monster story is interesting. This is a monster story and it is a good story. Really thought the author handled the monster story trope well. Enjoyed the characters. Ro is the main character and Hettie and Ava play second to Ro. Wish there was more time spent on the teen living alone in an apartment by herself. If there’s anything I would wish was done a little better it would be making Ro more accessible. The story is told mostly in Ro’s head. Though the main character is extremely introspective just wished that Ro’s dialogue and conversations felt more like a fifteen year old.
July 4, 2022
It took me a little while to get into this book, but once I did, I was hooked on this unique YA urban fantasy/horror story. While the action starts out slow, the tension builds and significantly picks up the pace about two-thirds of the way through. The ending is unexpected and emotional.
The story follows Rosella, a 15-year-old girl, who moves across the country with her ailing Mom and her 7-year-old sister to live with her Aunt in a small, rural Tennessee town. While exploring the woodlands in their new town, Rosella and Hettie stumble upon a hidden world. Hettie becomes increasingly enthralled with this underground fantasy world, while Rosella gets the sense that something isn’t quite right.
One of my favorite parts of the book is the bond between the sisters. Rosella is a mother figure to Hettie and the love she has for her little sister is incredibly touching. Most of the time, it seems Rosella is the only person around who pays attention to Hettie and has her best interests at heart. Wayne and Ava are also good supporting characters. I liked the drama-free friendship that developed between Rosella and Ava. I also appreciated the growth we saw in Wayne throughout the course of the book
The book is deeper than it seems on the surface and shows some of the impacts on children who grow up around trauma and loss. The loss of childhood innocence is one of its major themes.
Readers who like fantasy stories that don’t fit neatly into one genre will like this book. People who like YA books without romance and sensible main characters will also enjoy this one.
The beautiful illustrations depicting some of the main scenes are worth noting – the drawings were well done and I looked forward to seeing the next one.
Thank you to Melissa Manger for providing me with a free review copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
To read more of my reviews, visit my book review blog, www.bookpicksandpics.com.
The story follows Rosella, a 15-year-old girl, who moves across the country with her ailing Mom and her 7-year-old sister to live with her Aunt in a small, rural Tennessee town. While exploring the woodlands in their new town, Rosella and Hettie stumble upon a hidden world. Hettie becomes increasingly enthralled with this underground fantasy world, while Rosella gets the sense that something isn’t quite right.
One of my favorite parts of the book is the bond between the sisters. Rosella is a mother figure to Hettie and the love she has for her little sister is incredibly touching. Most of the time, it seems Rosella is the only person around who pays attention to Hettie and has her best interests at heart. Wayne and Ava are also good supporting characters. I liked the drama-free friendship that developed between Rosella and Ava. I also appreciated the growth we saw in Wayne throughout the course of the book
The book is deeper than it seems on the surface and shows some of the impacts on children who grow up around trauma and loss. The loss of childhood innocence is one of its major themes.
Readers who like fantasy stories that don’t fit neatly into one genre will like this book. People who like YA books without romance and sensible main characters will also enjoy this one.
The beautiful illustrations depicting some of the main scenes are worth noting – the drawings were well done and I looked forward to seeing the next one.
Thank you to Melissa Manger for providing me with a free review copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
To read more of my reviews, visit my book review blog, www.bookpicksandpics.com.
December 8, 2023
“The Underground Moon” is similar to “Jinx” as it is also an urban-dark-fantasy for teens. Also similar to “Jinx,” it has a slower build, beginning especially. In my opinion, the gentle pace works better here. One reason is because the eeriness of this book rests on the rural, semi-claustrophobic setting and cast. Larton is a quiet town, a loneliness transferring to those in it. The Gill sisters are completely without parental guidance. Ro and Hettie don’t have any friends outside each other until they meet Ava, but she’s lonely too, painting in her empty apartment and working shifts at the diner while her parents visit family overseas. Ro’s mother, Gianna, is lonely partially because of self-isolation but also because of an inability to socialize. This mirrors Wayne who also self-isolates, and lives his life holed up in a dark apartment mourning his sister and the other children. Now that I write it out I realize how depressing this novel truly is.
But that’s exactly the state the underground moon uses to attract prey. It is an eminently menacing villain. The depiction of grooming tactics was notable and subtle at the same time. This is another place where the gradual tone of the novel worked: Hettie’s descent into obsession with the well, especially with her vulnerability to it as a kid who is quicker to believe the beauty and slower to see the world as it really is. The push-pull between her and Ro, and Ro’s desperation to protect her. Yeah, there were a couple moments here and there where I wanted a little more action, but on the whole it worked. And like “Jinx”, “The Underground Moon”’s ending is built up to remarkably. Most of all, I loved the Sleeping Beauty references between the moon and the witch, and the world and the spinning wheel.
But that’s exactly the state the underground moon uses to attract prey. It is an eminently menacing villain. The depiction of grooming tactics was notable and subtle at the same time. This is another place where the gradual tone of the novel worked: Hettie’s descent into obsession with the well, especially with her vulnerability to it as a kid who is quicker to believe the beauty and slower to see the world as it really is. The push-pull between her and Ro, and Ro’s desperation to protect her. Yeah, there were a couple moments here and there where I wanted a little more action, but on the whole it worked. And like “Jinx”, “The Underground Moon”’s ending is built up to remarkably. Most of all, I loved the Sleeping Beauty references between the moon and the witch, and the world and the spinning wheel.
February 24, 2025
I have not had the chance to read as much lately, so the time I get to read is precious. I was happy to choose The Underground Moon as one of my recents. Stylistically sound and filled of revelations about family, bravery, and sacrifice, this was deeper than I expected for a book for teens. The story drew me to Larton, a rural town in the U.S. south where Ro and Hettie live with their aunt and mother after moving from the northwest. Revisiting the way the author writes character relationships was delightful. No romance needed to create strong bonds. The sister bond was the strongest, in both Hettie and Ro and their mother and aunt. The friend bond with Ro and Ava was also very good, and the role Wayne played in Ro and Ava’s life, and Hettie’s most of all though they do not directly meet, was tremendous.
The book is paced medium to slow, but for the gradual supernatural horror elements, I found this worked. Sometimes there was a sense of claustrophobia with the smaller cast, however I found it an apt stylistic choice to draw attention to the stillness of Larton and one of the reasons why the underground moon was so successful. In some other scenarios, I was wishing for more integration of Ro’s mother and aunt, but the relationships between the main cast members were strong enough to make the story emotionally impactful, which is why it’s not enough to take a star off. Every character makes some kind of impact, and the four “mains” (Ro, Hettie, Ava, Wayne) are the pillars that make this story as strong as it is.
The book is paced medium to slow, but for the gradual supernatural horror elements, I found this worked. Sometimes there was a sense of claustrophobia with the smaller cast, however I found it an apt stylistic choice to draw attention to the stillness of Larton and one of the reasons why the underground moon was so successful. In some other scenarios, I was wishing for more integration of Ro’s mother and aunt, but the relationships between the main cast members were strong enough to make the story emotionally impactful, which is why it’s not enough to take a star off. Every character makes some kind of impact, and the four “mains” (Ro, Hettie, Ava, Wayne) are the pillars that make this story as strong as it is.
July 4, 2023
Don’t read this book unless you are prepared to be sucked in, have your emotions messed with, and end up like 🤯 😥
Its ominous and atmospheric and haunting and sad but also hopeful and beautiful. The characters are written soooo well. The Underground Moon is the first novel Ive read by Melissa K. Magner and I went into this book not knowing what to expect as I always do with authors I haven’t read. Well obviously that was a good choice because after a semi-mild start, I was so transported into the story that I flew through it. Ava has my heart but Ro is a great character too. She’s mature, level-headed and smart but also thrown into a situation no teenager should ever deal with so it makes sense when she does desperate things. She goes from being cautious to literally doing whatever it takes to save her little sister and it was very easy to empathize with her desperate choices because, well, she's only 15! But I liked how she came across more mature than an avg 15 y/o because with what she's had to deal with, it makes sense that she'd adjust to be more adult than she really is or at least pretend. My favorite part was the ending because it took the story full circle, re: Wayne’s arc. he went from being the exact opposite of hero to being the epitome of a hero. It was sooooo good. It captured me the whole way through.
Its ominous and atmospheric and haunting and sad but also hopeful and beautiful. The characters are written soooo well. The Underground Moon is the first novel Ive read by Melissa K. Magner and I went into this book not knowing what to expect as I always do with authors I haven’t read. Well obviously that was a good choice because after a semi-mild start, I was so transported into the story that I flew through it. Ava has my heart but Ro is a great character too. She’s mature, level-headed and smart but also thrown into a situation no teenager should ever deal with so it makes sense when she does desperate things. She goes from being cautious to literally doing whatever it takes to save her little sister and it was very easy to empathize with her desperate choices because, well, she's only 15! But I liked how she came across more mature than an avg 15 y/o because with what she's had to deal with, it makes sense that she'd adjust to be more adult than she really is or at least pretend. My favorite part was the ending because it took the story full circle, re: Wayne’s arc. he went from being the exact opposite of hero to being the epitome of a hero. It was sooooo good. It captured me the whole way through.
November 10, 2020
I'm often "on the hunt" for original books that, more and more, I am convinced can't be found in mainstream books. This book has made my list! I'm a biiiig fan of dark fantasy, and while I would say the book could be considered YA/fantasy, there are some parts of the book (i.e. the antagonist) that feel a more horror-like. It's a nice mix of genres that don't confine to one category, which - again - is tricky to find nowadays in brick&mortar/trade books. The gradual approach the story takes to build up the threat of the underground moon was enough to keep me on the edge of my seat from the get-go and the characters were all organic, likable and believable./ Happy I found it. My *one* critique (and this really is nit-picking), is that there could've been a wider net cast over characters to incorporate more of their stories (I'd really like to know more about Wayne, for example - he's so interesting and has a dark, tragic backstory. Even though it is revealed - and gives valid reasons for his character motivations - I still wanted to know more...I wanted a deeper look into his psyche), but I also get that this book is through the eyes of a 15 year-old, so there's a limit to how much can be said or showed. All in all, though, damn was this book a good read.
April 18, 2024
The Underground Moon is a teen young adult dark fantasy that will stick with you. This is the author’s sophomore novel and I found it very well written. Rosella is a refreshing protagonist. As an older sister myself, I liked how she was written, and how she was honest with Hettie and never hid information but communicated it in a way Hettie would understand. The sister dynamic reminded me a little of Nani and Lilo from Lilo & Stitch, or even Katniss and Prim, with an older sister who has to be more mature because of circumstances. The writing is penned in a lovely style that is smooth to read. I also enjoyed the characters, the way the plot was laid out and the messages. There were some scary or disturbing parts but nothing is too graphic. Those parts are just alluded to, not described in detail which I think was appropriate. It is a beautifully designed book, cover and illustrations included, and a memorable story. I enjoy how this author has black and white illustrations in her books. They add to the story and are very good quality. I hope she continues with this. I also liked the fairytale undercurrent of Sleeping Beauty, though mostly the story reminded me of a modern twist of Hansel and Gretel.
June 16, 2022
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was beautifully written. The characters are original and memorable, and the book contains a lot of subtle commentary on how mental illness can tear apart families and leave children vulnerable to outside predators.
Rosella was a likable protagonist who you feel for from the beginning, and her relationship with both Ava and Hettie is enough to pull on your heartstrings!
I also liked the dichotomy between the character Wayne and Rosella's mother Gianna. Both suffer in their own ways but one is because of the underground world and the other is because of depression.
(*Warning for spoiler): Wayne's sacrifice at the end in and Gianna's decision to get help for her illness is harrowing, but well done. While there is hope for Gianna in a more concrete way, Wayne embodies a more hidden kind of hope, which is hope for the future children he has saved. While one character hangs on for her 2 children, the other lets go for hundreds of them.And that, in a raw and harrowing way, leaves "The Underground Moon" as one of the most bittersweet endings I've read.
This book was beautifully written. The characters are original and memorable, and the book contains a lot of subtle commentary on how mental illness can tear apart families and leave children vulnerable to outside predators.
Rosella was a likable protagonist who you feel for from the beginning, and her relationship with both Ava and Hettie is enough to pull on your heartstrings!
I also liked the dichotomy between the character Wayne and Rosella's mother Gianna. Both suffer in their own ways but one is because of the underground world and the other is because of depression.
(*Warning for spoiler): Wayne's sacrifice at the end in and Gianna's decision to get help for her illness is harrowing, but well done. While there is hope for Gianna in a more concrete way, Wayne embodies a more hidden kind of hope, which is hope for the future children he has saved. While one character hangs on for her 2 children, the other lets go for hundreds of them.And that, in a raw and harrowing way, leaves "The Underground Moon" as one of the most bittersweet endings I've read.
September 22, 2023
Something about small towns with sinister mysteries is so unnerving. The horror creeps up, slowly, but it kept me on my toes. The underground world was mystical and well described. That was part of what made things so exciting. The ending was strong and the way everything ties together, neatly and sadly, made the creepiness wash away and end sadly, but hopefully.
I have to mention the illustrations. Those were some of the most beautiful pieces of art I’ve seen in fictional, full length novels. The moon icons too and how they got fuller and then died out were a smart addition. The whole book is very carefully executed. Don’t go in looking for fast-paced horror because you won’t find it. You’ll find something a little slower but memorable.
I have to mention the illustrations. Those were some of the most beautiful pieces of art I’ve seen in fictional, full length novels. The moon icons too and how they got fuller and then died out were a smart addition. The whole book is very carefully executed. Don’t go in looking for fast-paced horror because you won’t find it. You’ll find something a little slower but memorable.
October 1, 2023
It’s reread time. This one is great to start off the early Halloween season, even though the story takes place in summer. My earlier rating still stands, but I’m leaning more toward 4 instead of 4.5 this time around. I was still deeply invested in the book but the gradual pacing in the beginning was a tad more noticeable when I read it a second time, probably because I was itching to get below the well again. I still deeply loved the characters, however, and the journey they took me on was just as emotional as eerie.
Summer or fall, this book is sure to give you chills…and feels. I enjoyed reading it again and the beautiful sisterly relationship, unexpected hero, and themes of family strength were what made this just as much a coming of age as a dark fantasy, horror novel.
Summer or fall, this book is sure to give you chills…and feels. I enjoyed reading it again and the beautiful sisterly relationship, unexpected hero, and themes of family strength were what made this just as much a coming of age as a dark fantasy, horror novel.
July 5, 2021
this is the kind of book that you read and you're like "what is going on in this author's mind because now I'm deeply disturbed and sad but also touched and I can't explain my emotions, thank you".. and i LOVE it. I tried to match this book to other ya fantasy books I've read, but i just can't! it is its own thing and it throws in a little bit of horror and suspense there too. This is a standalone that gives off king or neil gaiman vibes like i've seen some reviews mention, but also vibes all its own, and I really like the voice of this author. this book has been on my tbr for soooo long and i FINALLY read it :D
September 19, 2025
Reading this again five years later is exciting. I still love teen young adult novels, especially darker ones. Still scary and tear-provoking, I noticed much more this time. The moon page breaks that mirror the underground moon’s phases, and the Sleeping Beauty storyline— how critical Hettie was of the princess yet she falls into the same trap… very keen and subtle commentary on how innocence and belief can make it hard for kids to see sinister intentions. This book is more a mix of fantasy, paranormal, drama than pure horror, but it strikes a nice balance. It’s scary insofar as the creepy scenes, but there’s nothing too intense.
November 5, 2025
I enjoyed it! It is definitely a gateway horror book, the kind where you will either really appreciate the creepiness and atmosphere, the specific kind of horror, or you could find it a little bland. Some conversations between characters could have been shorter but it all led to a good ending that fits the book’s themes and message well. If you like kind of weird horror (I do) or are in the age range of books like Coraline or Fablehaven then it will be perfect.
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