Reviews with content warning for Torture - When the Moon Hatched

I was worried to start this book as it had been so hyped up on booktok - but it did not disappoint. For being an almost 700 page book it was a very quick read. The writing was easy to access and meant that becoming engaged in the universe was very quick. Sarah A Parker created well developed fantasy world, with its own fleshed out planet, time, "religion" and laws, and did so without making the reader feel like they were stumbling over names or confused about the rules of the land.

I loved how engaging all the characters were and the fact that as readers we were given POVs not just from the main female character Raeve, but others as well. I loved the slow burn between the two main protagonists and how it developed over the couse of the novel - it was a good progression. The author created a brilliant cast of characters and I can't wait to read more (though I'm not happy I have to wait until fall 2025).

I think the only criticism I would have is that there were some phrases that the female lead says/thinks that seem anachronistic to world she exists in so I was a little taken out of the story - but it happened only once or twice, so it was really just a minor annoyance.

Overall an amzing book and if you like fantasy this is a must read!

Content Warnings

kbam23's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Content Warnings

gabbyeleene's review against another edition

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adventurous dark emotional tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This book took me on a journey. Around the middle when Raeve escaped Kaan and fell into the river, I thought that section was a lot - too much happened in such a short time, kind of gave me whiplash. Overall this book was great and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

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stephlhunter's review against another edition

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adventurous mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

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thelibraryskeeper's review against another edition

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adventurous dark emotional medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

When I first heard about this book I heard it described as a fantasy novel that could stand on its own if there was no romance, but also a romance novel that could stand on its own if there was no fantasy. Upon completion both are certainly true. When the Moon Hatched has easily found its way into a shortlist of my favorite books of all time.

I have to say the main reason for my rating is because of the care the author put into creating this world. I heard her speak to the time she put into the world and the magic system. That she got lost in it fully understanding it before creating the story of the main characters and beyond. I adored this book and cannot wait for book two. Although I want Sarah to take her time with it. With the amount of care that went into this book I know it's going to be good.

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christinastentzel's review against another edition

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5.0

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aramsay's review against another edition

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adventurous dark medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

For me, this book was the epitome of “trust the process”. I was so confused to begin with, as the world and the characters are so rich and you need time to dig your teeth into them. Also the language was so descriptive and beautiful. I fell in love with the characters and their intricacies. I laughed out loud, shouted and swooned. And the 🌶️! Perfectly placed in the story, well written and 🔥. 5⭐️ from me

Content Warnings

kinsportch's review against another edition

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adventurous tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

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