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The Hunting Moon by Susan Dennard

2 reviews

natashaleighton_'s review against another edition

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adventurous emotional mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

The second instalment in Susan Dennard’s the Luminaries series was just as lush and beautifully atmospheric as the first, with more monsters (and mysteries) to delve into. 

Continuing on where book one left off, we once again follow Winnie Wednesday who, having passed her trials (and survived a werewolf bite) has become a bit of celebrity in Hemlock Falls. And yet, despite finally getting what she’s always wanted, Winnie isn’t satisfied. The Whisperer, is still out there and Winnie can’t make anyone believe in its existence. 

With former best friend Jay Friday the only person she can turn to, and mysterious clues left by Winnie’s father, she might just get answers to the events that took place four years ago— and maybe even find proof of his innocence.

But with the fate of Hemlock Falls resting in the balance and secrets growing (along with the bodies left in The Whisperer’s wake) Winnie finds herself questioning everything she thought she knew about being a Luminary. And answering some of the most difficult questions of all: where do her loyalties lie, and what is she willing to risk for them?

I really enjoyed this! The stakes are still high and the action still deliciously intense. Plus, we get more stunning illustrations of the Nightmares Winnie encounters— which was one of my favourite aspects of book one. But, I admit loved Winnie (and the emotional development we see her undergo) the most. 

Having secured her family’s place among the Luminaries (and Clan Wednesday) once more, Winnie’s rose tinted glasses have been well and truly removed. Giving us a front row seat to some of the complex, morally grey politics that make up the organisation. We don’t delve into this too heavily though but, given how things transpire in that phenomenally explosive ending— I’m looking forward to (hopefully) exploring it in more depth in the next book. 

I was a little disappointed that Winnie’s newfound friends (Bretta, Emma and Fatima) aren’t nearly as present as I would’ve liked. As Winnie spends a lot of time emotionally detached from the people around her, both in an effort to solve the clues left by her father, and work through the trauma she endured during the hunting trials. I did however love the slow burn intensity still simmering between Winnie and brooding former bestie (and love interest) Jay. 

Their chemistry is incredible and seeing Winnie finally open up to someone after years of closing herself off emotionally was really gratifying. As was watching their paranormal investigations begin to unravel some of the unanswered questions I had at the end of The Luminaries. 

Though I admit, I did manage to guess the identity of the werewolf, so wasn’t all that surprised when my suspicions were confirmed. I did however love how nuanced and emotionally charged Winnie’s reaction to the news was. 

Overall, an incredibly enjoyable YA fantasy (and solid sequel) that has me eagerly anticipating the next book already. 

Also, thanks to Blackcrow PR and Daphne Press for this stunning finished copy. 

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kassidyreads's review against another edition

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adventurous funny mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0


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