A review by mags_reads_
Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan

adventurous emotional inspiring lighthearted relaxing sad 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? It's complicated

5.0

Daughter of the Moon Goddess is inspired by the legend of Chang’e, the Chinese moon goddess, where a daughter’s quest to free her mother pits her against some of the most powerful immortal in the whole realm. Fleeing from her home, Xingyin ends up in the Celestial Kingdom, the home of those who imprisoned her mother, and becomes a companion to the Crown Prince Liwei, mastering archery and magic. Then, across the span of a few years, she embarks on her most dangerous quest yet in exchange for her mother’s freedom. 
Not only did Daughter of the Moon Goddess have the COOLEST Chinese dragons, but it began an enchanting, magical, and romantic duology that weaves Chinese mythology into a sweeping adventure of immortals and magic, of loss and sacrifice— where love vies with honor, dreams are fraught with betrayal, and hope emerges triumphant. 
This book was constantly tugging on my heartstrings. Xingyin’s love and sacrifice for her mother is absolutely beautiful. The love triangle between the kind prince and ruggedly handsome warrior had me my stomach in knots and butterflies. But… what I loved most about this book is that even though its a New Adult Fantasy, it read like a YA, which led me to focus and become enthralled with the adventure and Chinese culture. The writing had a subtle beauty to it that made this a thrilling, but also comforting read at the same time. 
It has been 5 days since I finished this book and I am still heartbroken… destroyed… and left with a giant gaping hole in my heart. I can easily say that Daughter of the Moon Goddess is one of my favorite reads of 2022, so far. When I finished the last page, I felt like I was saying goodbye to Xingyin, as a friend, and I won’t see her again for 9 more months. Even days after finishing, I am finding myself picking it back up to reread my favorite parts. If you love Mulan, this is the perfect book for you!