The Moonlight Blade

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I’m heartbroken this story fell short for me. On paper (pun intended), it had lots of traits that usually fall into my preferred checklist: an Eastern vibe, a contest, a motley crew of characters that become a team or group of friends, as well as a misfit who becomes crucial.

But honestly, while the details were beautiful, the characters outside of Narra seemed distant and just out of reach, the plot tries to twist on itself, and key moments seem downplayed. Honestly, I knew too much about the inconsequential things, and not enough about those critical moments that shape a story. Key mysteries aren’t solved, and the ending seemed to resolve quickly after some long and difficult chapters.

Overall, a long and difficult read.