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The Moon and Stars
Matthew Capes, struggling with chronic stage fright, has not sung in front of an audience for ten years. A classical tenor with a magnificent voice, he only dares sing late at night on the empty stage of the Moon and Stars theatre.
When Matthew’s old singing partner Angela – who just so happens to be the woman of his dreams – gets back in touch and offers him the chance to perform in a nationwide tour, his low self-esteem and anxiety stand in the way. But Matthew has a he will sing in the shadows while his handsome and charismatic friend Ralph takes to the stage with Angela. What could go wrong?
Loosely inspired by The Phantom of the Opera , this warm and witty debut novel is the perfect read for fans of David Nicholls.
When Matthew’s old singing partner Angela – who just so happens to be the woman of his dreams – gets back in touch and offers him the chance to perform in a nationwide tour, his low self-esteem and anxiety stand in the way. But Matthew has a he will sing in the shadows while his handsome and charismatic friend Ralph takes to the stage with Angela. What could go wrong?
Loosely inspired by The Phantom of the Opera , this warm and witty debut novel is the perfect read for fans of David Nicholls.
384 pages, Paperback
Published October 20, 2022
5 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
September 5, 2022
I loved this book. Whilst it is one of those books where you can predict a lot of the outcomes, and I don't always like or appreciate that in a book, in The Moon And Stars, that predictability of plot sort of made it more endearing. I was routing for the different characters throughout. Well, actually, I wasn't routing for Chris, but you're not meant to 😂 I found I could really relate to Matthew and his crippling anxiety, and I empathised with him, but if I had to choose a favourite character, I'd choose Lucy. Her sassy protective mechanism, her humour, her softness, her angst.
I often found myself chuckling out loud at a lot of different points whilst reading this book, and there'd be funny bits that I'd have to read out loud to Ben so he could appreciate the humour too - it really brought me out of my PMS funk this past weekend! Overall, I really enjoyed Jenna Warren's writing and would 100% read any future books of hers!
Fans of musical theatre, theatre, bands, a cute story, character development, etc, I recommend giving this book a read!
Oh, and last thing, absolutely loved the chapter titles being musical terminology 👌🏻
I often found myself chuckling out loud at a lot of different points whilst reading this book, and there'd be funny bits that I'd have to read out loud to Ben so he could appreciate the humour too - it really brought me out of my PMS funk this past weekend! Overall, I really enjoyed Jenna Warren's writing and would 100% read any future books of hers!
Fans of musical theatre, theatre, bands, a cute story, character development, etc, I recommend giving this book a read!
Oh, and last thing, absolutely loved the chapter titles being musical terminology 👌🏻
August 20, 2022
Huge thanks to Fairlight Books for sending the proof copy of this beautiful book.
Wonderfully written by Jenna Warren the book gives a nod to The Phantom of the Opera, bringing together music, theatre and romance.
Matthew is a classically trained singer with immense talent yet suffers from crippling stage fright. To still feel in touch with his lifelong dream, he works as a manager at The Moon And Stars Theatre.
When given the opportunity to sing with his old singing partner, who also happens to be the woman of his dreams, he is torn. He longs to duet with her again, however how can he possibly sing in front of an audience?
You had me at Musical Theatre ❤️ I absolutely adored this book, I did not want it to end...... encore, encore!!!!!!! 🎶
Wonderfully written by Jenna Warren the book gives a nod to The Phantom of the Opera, bringing together music, theatre and romance.
Matthew is a classically trained singer with immense talent yet suffers from crippling stage fright. To still feel in touch with his lifelong dream, he works as a manager at The Moon And Stars Theatre.
When given the opportunity to sing with his old singing partner, who also happens to be the woman of his dreams, he is torn. He longs to duet with her again, however how can he possibly sing in front of an audience?
You had me at Musical Theatre ❤️ I absolutely adored this book, I did not want it to end...... encore, encore!!!!!!! 🎶
September 28, 2022
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Incredibly original and different, a poignant story about a lonely, troubled, shy hero, “The Moon and Stars”, by Jenna Warren (Fairlight Books), is told in his perspective and deals with psychological issues and the meanders of music and creativity in an interest way.
Matthew is such a troubled young man; his issues go back to adolescence and remain problematic. The author manages to display both the raw mental pain he experiences and the loving, supporting role of family and friends, often showing itself in indirect ways.
I loved the take on stage fright, anxiety, low-esteem issues and youth self-image, and how the author incorporated these themes into the story through the hero’s often painful life experiences.
It’s hard sometimes to witness such a naked, honest display of vulnerable masculinity; sometimes I felt I was almost violating his inner self…
I also loved that there was some distance and we, readers, could also see how Matthew’s perspectives were tainted and things often weren’t as bad or gloomy as they seemed to him.
I felt the love triangle was well written and really liked how Lucy’s character was developed. Understandably, Angela‘s character was more opaque, with less substance and depth.
It’s frustrating that Matthew is so clueless and blind so many times, but I suppose that’s part of his very low key, unassuming nature. You can also find him a bit naïve and innocent and appreciate that you have these dimensions in a male character.
I liked the way Jenna Warren wrote the attraction between Matthew and Lucy, and the way he is so unaware and even a bit obtuse about it.
The contrast between Angela and Lucy is nice, too.
I loved that this is also a story about the beauty of singing and the wonder of the human voice. And how us, common mortals, can be so enraptured by it.
The secondary characters are awesome and bring so much to the story. I especially liked the band members, the Moon and Stars team and Matthew’s family.
Incredibly original and different, a poignant story about a lonely, troubled, shy hero, “The Moon and Stars”, by Jenna Warren (Fairlight Books), is told in his perspective and deals with psychological issues and the meanders of music and creativity in an interest way.
Matthew is such a troubled young man; his issues go back to adolescence and remain problematic. The author manages to display both the raw mental pain he experiences and the loving, supporting role of family and friends, often showing itself in indirect ways.
I loved the take on stage fright, anxiety, low-esteem issues and youth self-image, and how the author incorporated these themes into the story through the hero’s often painful life experiences.
It’s hard sometimes to witness such a naked, honest display of vulnerable masculinity; sometimes I felt I was almost violating his inner self…
I also loved that there was some distance and we, readers, could also see how Matthew’s perspectives were tainted and things often weren’t as bad or gloomy as they seemed to him.
I felt the love triangle was well written and really liked how Lucy’s character was developed. Understandably, Angela‘s character was more opaque, with less substance and depth.
It’s frustrating that Matthew is so clueless and blind so many times, but I suppose that’s part of his very low key, unassuming nature. You can also find him a bit naïve and innocent and appreciate that you have these dimensions in a male character.
I liked the way Jenna Warren wrote the attraction between Matthew and Lucy, and the way he is so unaware and even a bit obtuse about it.
The contrast between Angela and Lucy is nice, too.
I loved that this is also a story about the beauty of singing and the wonder of the human voice. And how us, common mortals, can be so enraptured by it.
The secondary characters are awesome and bring so much to the story. I especially liked the band members, the Moon and Stars team and Matthew’s family.
December 30, 2022
A talented singer suffers from stage fright , halting his musical career. The story seemed aligned in parts with the tale of the phantom of the opera. I found it difficult to connect with the characters and for me, the storyline was a little light. 2.5 stars, rounded up to 3.
February 20, 2023
I love the idea of a modern Phantom-inspired book in theory; unfortunately, it didn't work for me in practice.
I feel bad for saying this, but as a story, The Moon and Stars is kind of soulless. It just lacks any kind of heart or emotion, and I felt disconnected and bored the whole time I was reading it. It's not particularly well-written, and the story definitely needs to be fleshed out more.
It certainly doesn't help that Matthew is the least compelling character I've read about in a long time. He's an "unattractive" (or at least unconventional) hero with a love for music and with an absolutely debilitating bout of stage fright. He should be interesting or, at the very least, sympathetic. Instead, he's incredibly dull, and his thoughts are about as interesting as watching paint dry. When I found out his self-esteem issues stemmed from teenage acne of all things, I have a full-body eyeroll. Which I immediately felt bad about because bullying and anxiety and childhood trauma are not things to take lightly, but seriously?! He is already a painfully frustrating narrator to begin with, and his whole complex about his appearance was just the last straw for me. I feel like he's supposed to have this unreliable narrator thing going for him, but he comes across as whiny, mopey, and kind of pathetic. It's not a good look.
The story itself is also a disappointment. There's this weird disconnect that made it hard for me to get into the story, and there's no real emotional pull to keep readers invested. Matthew obviously plays a big part of that, but the rest of the story isn't well-written either. The plot is underdeveloped, the pacing is painfully slow, and the writing is stilted and awkward.
The story just lacks depth and substance, which makes The Moon and Stars a tedious read. Events are just recounted in an almost robotic, detached manner, and nothing is really developed. We jump from one scene to another, but it's all told with the excitement of someone giving a book report. Warren never gives me a convincing reason for why I should care about any of it, so the emotional stakes are never really developed. I feel like I just had "but why should I care??" playing on loop in the back of my mind the whole time I was reading it.
The romance feels like it's an obligatory element that Warren just inserted into her story to be published. I actually normally kind of like unrequited love stories, but watching Matthew initially moon and mope over his old flame is seriously so cringe. There's no development. I can't even call it insta-love because the characters have zero chemistry together.
I really have to wrack my brain for something positive to say about The Moon and Stars. There are a few cute moments between Matthew and the band moments toward the end, but by then, it's too little too late. Even then, the heartwarming bits of banter aren't nearly enough to save this story. (Shattered Chandelier is a pretty cool band name, though.)
I briefly skimmed the acknowledgments at the end, and it seems like Jenna Warren put a lot of work into her debut. Unfortunately, it missed the mark for me. I don't think I've ever used the word "painful" so many times in a review, but truly, this was one the driest, most underwhelming stories I've ever had the misfortune of reading. Maybe it would've helped if I'd blasted the Phantom soundtrack of loop while reading, but I have a feeling even Andrew Lyod Webber couldn't have saved this one.
I received an early ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I feel bad for saying this, but as a story, The Moon and Stars is kind of soulless. It just lacks any kind of heart or emotion, and I felt disconnected and bored the whole time I was reading it. It's not particularly well-written, and the story definitely needs to be fleshed out more.
It certainly doesn't help that Matthew is the least compelling character I've read about in a long time. He's an "unattractive" (or at least unconventional) hero with a love for music and with an absolutely debilitating bout of stage fright. He should be interesting or, at the very least, sympathetic. Instead, he's incredibly dull, and his thoughts are about as interesting as watching paint dry. When I found out his self-esteem issues stemmed from teenage acne of all things, I have a full-body eyeroll. Which I immediately felt bad about because bullying and anxiety and childhood trauma are not things to take lightly, but seriously?! He is already a painfully frustrating narrator to begin with, and his whole complex about his appearance was just the last straw for me. I feel like he's supposed to have this unreliable narrator thing going for him, but he comes across as whiny, mopey, and kind of pathetic. It's not a good look.
The story itself is also a disappointment. There's this weird disconnect that made it hard for me to get into the story, and there's no real emotional pull to keep readers invested. Matthew obviously plays a big part of that, but the rest of the story isn't well-written either. The plot is underdeveloped, the pacing is painfully slow, and the writing is stilted and awkward.
The story just lacks depth and substance, which makes The Moon and Stars a tedious read. Events are just recounted in an almost robotic, detached manner, and nothing is really developed. We jump from one scene to another, but it's all told with the excitement of someone giving a book report. Warren never gives me a convincing reason for why I should care about any of it, so the emotional stakes are never really developed. I feel like I just had "but why should I care??" playing on loop in the back of my mind the whole time I was reading it.
The romance feels like it's an obligatory element that Warren just inserted into her story to be published. I actually normally kind of like unrequited love stories, but watching Matthew initially moon and mope over his old flame is seriously so cringe. There's no development. I can't even call it insta-love because the characters have zero chemistry together.
I really have to wrack my brain for something positive to say about The Moon and Stars. There are a few cute moments between Matthew and the band moments toward the end, but by then, it's too little too late. Even then, the heartwarming bits of banter aren't nearly enough to save this story. (Shattered Chandelier is a pretty cool band name, though.)
I briefly skimmed the acknowledgments at the end, and it seems like Jenna Warren put a lot of work into her debut. Unfortunately, it missed the mark for me. I don't think I've ever used the word "painful" so many times in a review, but truly, this was one the driest, most underwhelming stories I've ever had the misfortune of reading. Maybe it would've helped if I'd blasted the Phantom soundtrack of loop while reading, but I have a feeling even Andrew Lyod Webber couldn't have saved this one.
I received an early ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 20, 2022
📚Matthew Capes, struggling with chronic stage fright, has not sung in front of an audience for ten years. A classical tenor with a magnificent voice, he only dares sing late at night on the empty stage of the Moon and Stars theatre. When Matthew's old singing partner Angela gets back in touch and offers him the chance to perform in a nationwide tour, his low self-esteem and anxiety stand in the way. But Matthew has a plan: he will sing in the shadows while his handsome and charismatic friend Ralph takes to the stage with Angela. What could go wrong?
It’s a story of Matthew learning to manage his fear and start to change his perception of himself positively. Everytime he called himself ugly or not good enough in any way, my heart ached for him🥺 The storyline is quite simple, but it’s so sensitively-written it’s wonderful. And the side characters are wonderful, too. The ending is heartwarming and wholesome. If you are looking for a good, cosy read for autumn and winter, this is a great book for you!
I enjoyed the theatre setting as well. It intrigued me but the book addresses the problem with the culture as well (too much pressure to be good-looking etc). Obviously, there is a lot of music references especially musicals. I’m not very familiar with them but it didn’t affect my reading experience negatively. But if you are into musicals and theatres, I’m sure you’ll love this book even more than I did🥰
It’s a story of Matthew learning to manage his fear and start to change his perception of himself positively. Everytime he called himself ugly or not good enough in any way, my heart ached for him🥺 The storyline is quite simple, but it’s so sensitively-written it’s wonderful. And the side characters are wonderful, too. The ending is heartwarming and wholesome. If you are looking for a good, cosy read for autumn and winter, this is a great book for you!
I enjoyed the theatre setting as well. It intrigued me but the book addresses the problem with the culture as well (too much pressure to be good-looking etc). Obviously, there is a lot of music references especially musicals. I’m not very familiar with them but it didn’t affect my reading experience negatively. But if you are into musicals and theatres, I’m sure you’ll love this book even more than I did🥰
November 19, 2024
such a fun read, it wasn’t slow at all even if it took me some time to get into it, i loved the characters so much, Lucy was definitely my favourite and i’m so glad her and matthew ended up together as i hated angela ! i hated chris more than anything UGH
i loved the whole aesthetic and how cozy it was, would recommend to any theatre lover and i’m so so glad it ended happily
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
i loved the whole aesthetic and how cozy it was, would recommend to any theatre lover and i’m so so glad it ended happily
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2024
Wow.
First I want to thank Dylan for telling me to read this book.
Secondly I want to thank Jenna Warren for writing this beautiful story.
This story moved me in a way that no book has moved me before. I felt such a connection to Matthew and the way he felt. This book left me feeling warm, confident, motivated and happy.
I am so glad i read it.
First I want to thank Dylan for telling me to read this book.
Secondly I want to thank Jenna Warren for writing this beautiful story.
This story moved me in a way that no book has moved me before. I felt such a connection to Matthew and the way he felt. This book left me feeling warm, confident, motivated and happy.
I am so glad i read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2022
To start with a personal note; I cannot express quite how glad I am that this book is good. Jenna runs the local bookshop in the town where I live, and to be honest we don't always have the same taste in books. I was somewhat dreading reading their debut novel; what if I didn't like it? I might never be able to go in the bookshop again! So it is with delight that I can say that this is actually a good book, I read it in a single day and enjoyed it immensely. Well done Jenna, and congrats on the publication!
The Moon and Stars is an upbeat and comforting contemporary fiction novel. While I wouldn't quite go as far as rom-com, it definitely has a warm wit to it and enough romantic elements that it's certainly leaning in that direction. The story follows Matthew, a classically trained opera singer who, due to crippling anxiety, has not performed on stage in almost a decade. Now working behind the scenes in a struggling theatre, they find themselves struggling with regrets and missing the music in their life. In comes Angela, an old friend and crush from music school, who offers Matthew the chance to sing on a new album. Matthew accepts, but is still unable to sing on stage and so drafts in their charismatic and handsome friend Ralph to be a body-double, miming on stage to Matthew's voice. Alongside this plot, we also have Matthew joining a band and slowly trying to get over their stage-fright.
From the setup, you can probably guess the broad strokes trajectory of the plot. But this familiarity comes across as wholesome and charming rather than repetitive or trite; it feels like a lovingly told tale, playfully twisting some familiar elements into a cosy narrative blanket that you can wrap yourself up in. You can imagine the love-triangle issues that arise; the clueless protagonist who ultimately learns their lesson at the end of the day and becomes a better person; the setbacks, the last-minute triumphs. It's all in there, and every beat is hit exactly on cue. To use a musical metaphor in keeping with the content: it doesn't necessarily matter that someone is not playing an original song, there is a joy in listening to someone perform something well-known but performing it excellently.
A large part of why the book works so well is the pathos, and the humanity of the characters. Everyone present is deeply relatable, and all are struggling with expectations in one way or another. They are frustratingly real humans, who don't always manage to communicate what they mean, and push each other away without intending to. But they are trying! And you can't help but root for them. When they have setbacks, you're really feeling it with them. When Matthew has a sudden clear flash of regret at their life choices when they drop a packet of wotsits; oof, I've been there mate. And when they do have breakthroughs, you're cheering with them. There's just the right amount of drama, rooted in the believable characters and their varying wants, to keep the book rolling without feeling over-the-top at any point, or stretching on for too long. All of the main cast are great, even when you don't like them you understand them. The supporting cast too is fun: the gruff and man-of-few-words father and supportive but slightly-overbearing mother; Jenna captures a very clear and relateable family dynamic swiftly and efficiently.
The whole book is also a great love letter to music, theatre, and performance. There is a great theatrical vibe that suffuses the novel, and the passion for the stage and the music is clear to see. It also looks at how obsessions can be damaging; being so singularly focused on anything will naturally lead to the exclusion of other things. For Matthew this is a key lesson; learning that music is not all there is to life, and that obsessing over past events can blind you to other opportunities in the present. The interactions with their bandmates and particularly Lucy the singer are great, as Matthew learns to be less of a snob and, frankly, less of a dick. It's a very satisfying character arc; as is Lucy's, actually.
Somewhat familiar beats, but written with love, humour and humanity.
The Moon and Stars is an upbeat and comforting contemporary fiction novel. While I wouldn't quite go as far as rom-com, it definitely has a warm wit to it and enough romantic elements that it's certainly leaning in that direction. The story follows Matthew, a classically trained opera singer who, due to crippling anxiety, has not performed on stage in almost a decade. Now working behind the scenes in a struggling theatre, they find themselves struggling with regrets and missing the music in their life. In comes Angela, an old friend and crush from music school, who offers Matthew the chance to sing on a new album. Matthew accepts, but is still unable to sing on stage and so drafts in their charismatic and handsome friend Ralph to be a body-double, miming on stage to Matthew's voice. Alongside this plot, we also have Matthew joining a band and slowly trying to get over their stage-fright.
From the setup, you can probably guess the broad strokes trajectory of the plot. But this familiarity comes across as wholesome and charming rather than repetitive or trite; it feels like a lovingly told tale, playfully twisting some familiar elements into a cosy narrative blanket that you can wrap yourself up in. You can imagine the love-triangle issues that arise; the clueless protagonist who ultimately learns their lesson at the end of the day and becomes a better person; the setbacks, the last-minute triumphs. It's all in there, and every beat is hit exactly on cue. To use a musical metaphor in keeping with the content: it doesn't necessarily matter that someone is not playing an original song, there is a joy in listening to someone perform something well-known but performing it excellently.
A large part of why the book works so well is the pathos, and the humanity of the characters. Everyone present is deeply relatable, and all are struggling with expectations in one way or another. They are frustratingly real humans, who don't always manage to communicate what they mean, and push each other away without intending to. But they are trying! And you can't help but root for them. When they have setbacks, you're really feeling it with them. When Matthew has a sudden clear flash of regret at their life choices when they drop a packet of wotsits; oof, I've been there mate. And when they do have breakthroughs, you're cheering with them. There's just the right amount of drama, rooted in the believable characters and their varying wants, to keep the book rolling without feeling over-the-top at any point, or stretching on for too long. All of the main cast are great, even when you don't like them you understand them. The supporting cast too is fun: the gruff and man-of-few-words father and supportive but slightly-overbearing mother; Jenna captures a very clear and relateable family dynamic swiftly and efficiently.
The whole book is also a great love letter to music, theatre, and performance. There is a great theatrical vibe that suffuses the novel, and the passion for the stage and the music is clear to see. It also looks at how obsessions can be damaging; being so singularly focused on anything will naturally lead to the exclusion of other things. For Matthew this is a key lesson; learning that music is not all there is to life, and that obsessing over past events can blind you to other opportunities in the present. The interactions with their bandmates and particularly Lucy the singer are great, as Matthew learns to be less of a snob and, frankly, less of a dick. It's a very satisfying character arc; as is Lucy's, actually.
Somewhat familiar beats, but written with love, humour and humanity.
September 12, 2022
I thought this book had a really interetsing premise and it didn't disappoint me. It was well written with a fantastic storyline and well developed characters. I couldn't put it down.
August 24, 2022
Matthew Capes, struggling with chronic stage fright, has not sung in front of an audience for ten years. A classical tenor with a magnificent voice, he only dares sing late at night on the empty stage of the Moon and Stars theatre.
When Matthew’s old singing partner Angela who just so happens to be the woman of his dreams gets back in touch and offers him the chance to perform in a nationwide tour, his low self-esteem and anxiety stand in the way. But Matthew has a plan: he will sing in the shadows while his handsome and charismatic friend Ralph takes to the stage with Angela. What could go wrong?
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Fairlight Books
I just reviewed The Moon and Stars by Jenna Warren. #TheMoonandStars #NetGalley
When Matthew’s old singing partner Angela who just so happens to be the woman of his dreams gets back in touch and offers him the chance to perform in a nationwide tour, his low self-esteem and anxiety stand in the way. But Matthew has a plan: he will sing in the shadows while his handsome and charismatic friend Ralph takes to the stage with Angela. What could go wrong?
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Fairlight Books
I just reviewed The Moon and Stars by Jenna Warren. #TheMoonandStars #NetGalley
January 15, 2023
As well as books, I also review Theatre so any time I get to review a book about theatre I get very excited!
This book was super cute. Possibly a little too saccharine in places, but overall very good. It’s lovely based on The Phantom of the Opera and there are a few subtle hints throughout, but you don’t need to know the story.
The characters provide a variety of personalities common in the theatre world and although Matthew spends most of the story having a pity party, once he meets Lucy he starts to find himself. She was my favourite character and their relationship is fantastic, especially how they meet and the little tiffs they have before becoming friends. I also enjoyed Matthew’s colleagues who provided a lot of humour.
Angela is a bit of a spoilt brat, but her character is true to life – many women rely on the friendship of a man who is in love with them and whilst she wasn’t pleasant, she had her own issues. Her and Ralph’s behaviour shows how selfish they both are, giving no real consideration to Matthew until they’re faced with their own challenges.
At this story’s heart is a group of friends trying to save a theatre. During covid many theatre goers were worried about the future of the West End and this aspect will really resonate with readers. Matthew’s journey was lovely to see and you can’t help but root for him the whole way, even though we don’t want him to end up with Angela!
A lovely hidden gem of a story that tugged on my heartstrings and – surprisingly – made me cry!
This book was super cute. Possibly a little too saccharine in places, but overall very good. It’s lovely based on The Phantom of the Opera and there are a few subtle hints throughout, but you don’t need to know the story.
The characters provide a variety of personalities common in the theatre world and although Matthew spends most of the story having a pity party, once he meets Lucy he starts to find himself. She was my favourite character and their relationship is fantastic, especially how they meet and the little tiffs they have before becoming friends. I also enjoyed Matthew’s colleagues who provided a lot of humour.
Angela is a bit of a spoilt brat, but her character is true to life – many women rely on the friendship of a man who is in love with them and whilst she wasn’t pleasant, she had her own issues. Her and Ralph’s behaviour shows how selfish they both are, giving no real consideration to Matthew until they’re faced with their own challenges.
At this story’s heart is a group of friends trying to save a theatre. During covid many theatre goers were worried about the future of the West End and this aspect will really resonate with readers. Matthew’s journey was lovely to see and you can’t help but root for him the whole way, even though we don’t want him to end up with Angela!
A lovely hidden gem of a story that tugged on my heartstrings and – surprisingly – made me cry!
August 31, 2024
OH MY GOD! Where to begin! I am a big musical theatre nerd for starters and when I picked up a book with the most beautiful cover I’d ever seen, that had STARS on it (stars are my favourite) and THEN to find out it was about musical theatre! It feels like the book was written with me in mind lol. I bought the book from Book Corner and met Jenna Warren so it’s signed!! Ahhhhhhhhhhh!! (Honestly if you ever find yourself in Saltburn by the sea, go and look in this adorable book shop) Okay so I’m fan girling really hard right now but the book is SO good! Read it right now! I got so emotionally invested. I personally react out loud to books and I got shouted at to shut up so many times lmao! The plot is delectable! (I won’t spoil it but AHHHHH it’s so good!!) I 100% didn’t binge this book… okay so I’m not fooling anyone but ahhhhhhh read it! Read it! Just go read it! It’s officially my favourite book now, will be wittering non stop about it to people for weeks. Why are you still here? GO READ IT!
July 18, 2022
This was a light, enjoyable romantic novel, full of music, theatre, and some good characters. The story is a very familiar one, and it does utilise many very well used, familiar, romantic tropes, but it uses them in a such a way that I quite liked spotting and anticipating them. The characters work well, particularly some of the supporting cast, and the author has managed to avoid any being annoying. I found this quite fun, easy to read, and it made me smile. Despite knowing exactly where the story was going, I liked the journey.
My thanks to the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review.
My thanks to the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review.
October 23, 2023
Well, a big shout out to the indie presses like Fairlight Books for publishing novels like The Moon and Stars by Jenna Warren.
I woke at 1 am and spent the next two and a half hours reading this book. I finished it this morning.
What kept me up?
I couldn't put it down.
And it's not a thriller, or crime or a sexy romp. It's gentle and entertaining and character led and heartfelt and at the end of every chapter, I wanted to know what happened next.
And I did find out what happened to every character, every piece of action and when I wanted to shake our main character, Matthew, well, I did start to shake him, the action turned.
My big question though, is 'why?'
Why don't I see The Moon and Stars in every shop window up and down the country? Is it on front table displays in Watertstones? Has it been translated into 100 different languages?
When I read wonderful books published by wonderful small presses, and I don't see them everywhere, and reviewed everywhere, I despair. I want to know why...only, disappointingly, I do know why.
This book by Jenna Warren is warm, gentle, quietly amusing, clever. It delves into the human condition and what is really important in life through excellent character portrayal and perfect plotting.
What we can do to help non-celebrity little known writers, who may not have a 'marketing handle' is to take word of mouth publicity about the real product, the book, to a whole new level.
It shouldn't be about money and clout and fame. Books that are best sellers should be about well written stories.
The Moon and Stars by Jenna Warren is a very well written story.
There. And I'm staying on my soap box about this!
Bravo Jenna Warren!
I woke at 1 am and spent the next two and a half hours reading this book. I finished it this morning.
What kept me up?
I couldn't put it down.
And it's not a thriller, or crime or a sexy romp. It's gentle and entertaining and character led and heartfelt and at the end of every chapter, I wanted to know what happened next.
And I did find out what happened to every character, every piece of action and when I wanted to shake our main character, Matthew, well, I did start to shake him, the action turned.
My big question though, is 'why?'
Why don't I see The Moon and Stars in every shop window up and down the country? Is it on front table displays in Watertstones? Has it been translated into 100 different languages?
When I read wonderful books published by wonderful small presses, and I don't see them everywhere, and reviewed everywhere, I despair. I want to know why...only, disappointingly, I do know why.
This book by Jenna Warren is warm, gentle, quietly amusing, clever. It delves into the human condition and what is really important in life through excellent character portrayal and perfect plotting.
What we can do to help non-celebrity little known writers, who may not have a 'marketing handle' is to take word of mouth publicity about the real product, the book, to a whole new level.
It shouldn't be about money and clout and fame. Books that are best sellers should be about well written stories.
The Moon and Stars by Jenna Warren is a very well written story.
There. And I'm staying on my soap box about this!
Bravo Jenna Warren!
October 9, 2022
This is one of those book where the premise was better than execution. The story had everything going for it: anxiety rep, "unique/unattractive" hero, musical setting, phantom of the opera retelling,... What ultimately made me dislike this book was the hero. First of he gave me serious "nice guys" vibes, always going on about how unfair it is that women aren't interested in him, because of his looks, which is a bit of a risky premise for a heroe's character in my opinion. There is no indication that he himself doesn't also place a lot of weight on a woman's looks and his interactions with women that weren't the love interest really weren't all that convincing that he's a nice person. He actually tells a women "you wouldn't understand" in a situation that was already weird and about a concept he very easily could have explained.
The second issue with this book is the actual storytelling. I never really connected with any of the characters and it felt like watching the action through a screen instead of really being immersed. This also made it difficult to get a handle on Angela, because the book is written from Matthew's point of view and Angela doesn't feel fully fleshed out.
Overall just not the book for me and I think some of the issues mentioned above could have been fixed with a well done edit.
I received this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
The second issue with this book is the actual storytelling. I never really connected with any of the characters and it felt like watching the action through a screen instead of really being immersed. This also made it difficult to get a handle on Angela, because the book is written from Matthew's point of view and Angela doesn't feel fully fleshed out.
Overall just not the book for me and I think some of the issues mentioned above could have been fixed with a well done edit.
I received this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
November 3, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley and Fairlight Books for the e-ARC of this book!
This book follows a story of Matthew Capes, the troubled young man and trained singer who has severe stage fright that goes back through his teenager and college times. He only can sing at night in the theatre he's working on, when the theatre already closed--thus, his coworker thought there's a singing ghost in the theatre. As his old duet partner, Angela, reconnect with him again and asked him to be featured in her album, how does Matthew would be able to settle his stage fright issues and will he finally belongs to the music?
I really like the interesting take from the author on describing how frightened and traumatize Matthew is because of "mindless' words from others. It shows how such words could hold a huge damage and affecting people's lives for god knows until when. The story was well written, and the characters have wonderful growth/development that's makes me feels good. I like how the way it's written to make us see and understand how troubled and blind Matthew is. But in the end, despite all the struggles to find himself, his strength, and his confidence again, I love how supportive friends and family are having a huge role on it.
Also, I love Lucy, James, Dan, and Charlotte character. Gosh I wish Shattered Chandelier band was real! the whole musical references are also make me giddy and giggling!
Overall, this has been an amazingly beautiful, admiring, honest, and fantastic read for me.
This book follows a story of Matthew Capes, the troubled young man and trained singer who has severe stage fright that goes back through his teenager and college times. He only can sing at night in the theatre he's working on, when the theatre already closed--thus, his coworker thought there's a singing ghost in the theatre. As his old duet partner, Angela, reconnect with him again and asked him to be featured in her album, how does Matthew would be able to settle his stage fright issues and will he finally belongs to the music?
I really like the interesting take from the author on describing how frightened and traumatize Matthew is because of "mindless' words from others. It shows how such words could hold a huge damage and affecting people's lives for god knows until when. The story was well written, and the characters have wonderful growth/development that's makes me feels good. I like how the way it's written to make us see and understand how troubled and blind Matthew is. But in the end, despite all the struggles to find himself, his strength, and his confidence again, I love how supportive friends and family are having a huge role on it.
Also, I love Lucy, James, Dan, and Charlotte character. Gosh I wish Shattered Chandelier band was real! the whole musical references are also make me giddy and giggling!
Overall, this has been an amazingly beautiful, admiring, honest, and fantastic read for me.
October 18, 2022
I loved this book. The story of Matthew, whose chronic stage fright has prevented him from doing what he loves, drew me in from the start. The characters are believable and the plot well-paced and interesting. I could relate to the main character and enjoyed watching him change and develop as the story moved towards its conclusion.
Jenna Warren writes with an easy informality which endears the narrator/protagonist to the reader, allowing you to witness his hopes and fears first-hand. This keeps you reading, keen to find out his fate and how the interplay between the other characters affect it.
This is a book about how small triumphs can lead to large ones. It reminds us of the power of kindness and how friendship and community carry immense potential to transform us. A moving and enjoyable read. Highly recommended.
Jenna Warren writes with an easy informality which endears the narrator/protagonist to the reader, allowing you to witness his hopes and fears first-hand. This keeps you reading, keen to find out his fate and how the interplay between the other characters affect it.
This is a book about how small triumphs can lead to large ones. It reminds us of the power of kindness and how friendship and community carry immense potential to transform us. A moving and enjoyable read. Highly recommended.
August 27, 2024
I'm sure there are flaws & a 5 star is very high for a first novel but I actually loved this.
The theatre backstage world, music & musicians - my life! ... It was obvious where it would end but it doesn't matter & it's all the more satisfying for it.
The Phantom of the Opera vibe is there but not at the expense of the very different storyline.
So pleased we got to see Jenna at Crossing The Tees earlier in the year & picked this up because we knew our friend was about to become the West End Phantom!
The theatre backstage world, music & musicians - my life! ... It was obvious where it would end but it doesn't matter & it's all the more satisfying for it.
The Phantom of the Opera vibe is there but not at the expense of the very different storyline.
So pleased we got to see Jenna at Crossing The Tees earlier in the year & picked this up because we knew our friend was about to become the West End Phantom!
December 12, 2022
A very sweet story! I enjoyed all the Phantom of the Opera elements.
It wasn't quite retelling, but the story itself nods heavily towards its similarities to Phantom of the Opera.
I liked seeing Matthew's relationships with Angela, Ralph, and Lucy develop over the course of the story. It did feel like some of the final interactions were lacking a bit of an emotional punch, but despite this, it was still an enjoyable read.
3.5
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
It wasn't quite retelling, but the story itself nods heavily towards its similarities to Phantom of the Opera.
I liked seeing Matthew's relationships with Angela, Ralph, and Lucy develop over the course of the story. It did feel like some of the final interactions were lacking a bit of an emotional punch, but despite this, it was still an enjoyable read.
3.5
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
February 23, 2024
I enjoyed this captivating novel from the first page and soon became fully invested in Matthew's journey towards self-acceptance and understanding.
The narrative is peopled throughout with vivid characters as it unfolds against a backdrop of musical theatre which, for me, was of great interest as I have no experience of theatrical performance other than sitting in an audience. The heart-warming finale was all I could have wished for.
Definitely a delightful read to savour.
The narrative is peopled throughout with vivid characters as it unfolds against a backdrop of musical theatre which, for me, was of great interest as I have no experience of theatrical performance other than sitting in an audience. The heart-warming finale was all I could have wished for.
Definitely a delightful read to savour.
April 19, 2024
I picked up this book from a charity shop and found that it was a signed copy! I am someone who does judge a book by its cover and I picked up this book in dedication to my own moon and stars, Molly.
Such a beautiful book from start to finish. For Jenna Warrens debut novel this is outstanding. Pure emotion and self doubt are prominent themes throughout the story which really resonates with the reader.
Pure gold.
Such a beautiful book from start to finish. For Jenna Warrens debut novel this is outstanding. Pure emotion and self doubt are prominent themes throughout the story which really resonates with the reader.
Pure gold.
June 1, 2024
Absolute masterpiece! I met the author in her bookshop and bought the book. (It’s signed and I show it off A LOT).
The plot of the book is incredible, the writing is perfect and the characters are all so interesting, especially Matthew. I loved seeing him develop through the story.
Several times curbing this book did I laugh and get excited over tiny little scenes, and often my jaw dropped.
Someone tell me when Jenna releases a new book so I can read it immediately!
The plot of the book is incredible, the writing is perfect and the characters are all so interesting, especially Matthew. I loved seeing him develop through the story.
Several times curbing this book did I laugh and get excited over tiny little scenes, and often my jaw dropped.
Someone tell me when Jenna releases a new book so I can read it immediately!
October 15, 2022
This book had a good premise but it didn't keep me interested. I thought the story of Matthew-an incredible singer who suffers from stagefright-was really interesting but personally I prefer a fastermoving plot line. All in all 2.5 stars.
I received this book from Netgalley in an exchange for an honest review.
I received this book from Netgalley in an exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2023
This book is a complete breath of fresh air. Bought in a charity shop I’d never heard of the book or the author and the book looked unread. But from the first page I was intrigued by the story, by the characters and the world of theatre & music. Bit of a cheesy ending and a few far fetched moments but a joy of a book that reminded me of self belief, friendship and the joy of music.
March 25, 2024
Loved it!! As a huge Phantom fan all the nods to the show made me smile. Matthew is such a beautiful character and I love the chosen family he finds through theatre and music to understand and help him
September 7, 2024
We got this at Crossing the Tees Book Festival & didn't know what to expect.
But...as lovers of theatre & with a friend who's the current Phantom..had to give this a go!
What a story, great characters, beautifully described theatre & a happy ending!
It's magical!
But...as lovers of theatre & with a friend who's the current Phantom..had to give this a go!
What a story, great characters, beautifully described theatre & a happy ending!
It's magical!
June 13, 2023
The author of this book runs the bookshop in the town where I live so I couldn’t wait to read it. & it’s gorgeous! A real feel good read. Inspired by Phantom of the Opera. A brilliant debut novel.
July 23, 2023
That was very different to the books I normally read and didn't really finish how I expected. I enjoyed it but there were times I wanted to shake Matthew.
August 12, 2023
Fabulous first novel , well done. I look forward to number 2.
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