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The Moonlight Market
Sanderson always envied the townies, all smiling faces and holding hands at his performances. He wanted the happy ever after that came with real life, not the pretend one in the twinkling fairy lights of the Moonlight Market. So when the Weaver of Dreams conjured him a normal life, college classes instead of performances, a chance at a boyfriend instead of an audience, he ran for daylight.
Now a year later, he's learned that connecting with someone physically doesn't always lead to a lasting relationship. To get closer to the man of his dreams, Sanderson offers to help Cory find his missing sister. This means navigating the twists and turns of the Moonlight Market, the disorienting world of performers and hawkers, bizarre sights, sounds—and dangers. The sinister Weaver of Dreams offers to forgive Sanderson's obligation in return for a lost soul, for Cory, who is still grieving the death of his parents and the disappearance of his sister. Surrounded by both friends and enemies, Sanderson fights doubts about his budding relationship with Cory while guiding them ever closer to his ultimate dilemma. The debt is valid and the choice is clear–his lover, or his dreams.
The Moonlight Market, a paranormal finalist for the 2017 Southern Magic Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, is a full-length new adult romance brimming with magical realism, fairy tale villains, and quirky characters. If you like your romance to send a shiver down your spine, you'll love The Moonlight Market! Buy your copy now and enter a world of dark fantasy and magic!
Now a year later, he's learned that connecting with someone physically doesn't always lead to a lasting relationship. To get closer to the man of his dreams, Sanderson offers to help Cory find his missing sister. This means navigating the twists and turns of the Moonlight Market, the disorienting world of performers and hawkers, bizarre sights, sounds—and dangers. The sinister Weaver of Dreams offers to forgive Sanderson's obligation in return for a lost soul, for Cory, who is still grieving the death of his parents and the disappearance of his sister. Surrounded by both friends and enemies, Sanderson fights doubts about his budding relationship with Cory while guiding them ever closer to his ultimate dilemma. The debt is valid and the choice is clear–his lover, or his dreams.
The Moonlight Market, a paranormal finalist for the 2017 Southern Magic Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, is a full-length new adult romance brimming with magical realism, fairy tale villains, and quirky characters. If you like your romance to send a shiver down your spine, you'll love The Moonlight Market! Buy your copy now and enter a world of dark fantasy and magic!
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2016
About the author
Aidee Ladnier
15 books366 followersAidee Ladnier, an award-winning author of speculative fiction, believes that adventure is around every corner. In pursuit of new experiences, she’s worked as a magician’s assistant, been a beauty pageant contestant, ridden in hot air balloons, produced independent movies, hiked up a volcano, and is a proud citizen scientist. A lover of genre fiction, Aidee’s perfect romance has a little science fiction, fantasy, mystery, or the paranormal thrown in to add a zing.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 9, 2016
“Why risk the moonlight when the shadows are so treacherous?”
The entire story of this book is a mystical journey through the mysterious moonlight market, a place that might be close to the common reality of the city but as soon as a visitor steps in, it feels like the market is located in entirely different world. Various performers entertain the visitors with their acts and shop owners are selling magical items, that magical place is an entire community full of wonders and mysteries that the reader has the chance to discover along with our main protagonists.
Perhaps the biggest mystery of all in the moonlight market was Niari, the Weaver of Dreams. She might have been cruel but I always found myself wanting to know more about her magical abilities and I wish we could have seen her past and the reason she ended up making deals that would eventually take away valuable things from her victims.
I also wish that the relationship of Cory and Sanderson would be as magical as the moonlight market but unfortunately that wasn’t the case. Their connection for the biggest part of the book doesn’t go beyond the physical aspect, their story immediately begins with a sex scene and they don’t really interact with each other beyond their hook ups until their forced to travel together in order to find Cory’s missing sister.
At that point I was expecting to see their emotional connection, they both were under a lot of stress and I was hoping to see them communicate but that didn’t happen. Instead and even though both were facing serious problems and Cory was so anxious to find his sister they somehow still had the time and were in the mood for more sex.
After all that, i was scared to finish the last part of the book but I was surprised to find a satisfying ending, I finally saw the emotional connection between the main characters that I was so desperately seeking in the rest of the book and I saw growth and strength not only in Cory and Sanderson but in many other people. It seemed to me that by the end of this story a lot of the characters had transformed into a better, more confident version of themselves.
Overall: 3.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed the free copy that I received via Reading Alley.
November 4, 2016
4 Stars
Full Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book via Reading Alley. This has in no way influenced my review.*
This book was only about 200 pages, but it felt longer, and I mean that in a great way. There were developed characters that showed growth throughout the story, there was a sweet and sexy romance, there were touching family moments, there was a fairly simple but still solid plot, and there was even circus!
The author did a great job of making me understand and sympathize with these characters' situations and emotions right away. Cory's parents died years ago, and he gave up pretty much everything (except his education) in order to take care of his little sister, but being her guardian put a major strain on their relationship to the point that they pretty much just argued or didn't talk at all, even though they're the only family each other has left. Sanderson, on the other hand, grew up with a traveling circus family, but all he wants now is to leave that life and stay in one place where he can make friends and date and have some normalcy, and he's tired of always being the one-night-stand but never the boyfriend. Then the two of them run into each other and fool around a couple times, but Cory can't deal with complications and figures Sanderson will eventually tire of him, and Sanderson thinks Cory isn't interested in anything more than sex. That's basically where the story starts, and I loved how much depth the characters had as well as the way all these things and more were explored as the story progressed.
I also just love carnivals and circuses, so I especially liked that aspect of the book. Pretty much the whole book was set at The Moonlight Market, this magical-esque traveling fair with all sorts of vendors and acts. And even though the amount of actual circus-ness in the book was minimal, I was glad that the descriptions of Sanderson's family's act were realistic (well, I couldn't quite figure out what was being described in some parts, but what I could figure out was realistic), and I especially loved that Sanderson had calluses! I know that's a really specific thing to love, but he was also a gymnast, so he would have calluses, and as a former gymnast it made me happy that that detail was included.
As for the plot, that was, as I said above, fairly simple but still interesting, and it worked because this was a more character-focused book.
So to wrap this up... This book had romance, family, character growth, magic, & circus and was overall a touching and enjoyable read!
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes character-focused books, sexy but sweet m/m romance, magic, and circus.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Full Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book via Reading Alley. This has in no way influenced my review.*
This book was only about 200 pages, but it felt longer, and I mean that in a great way. There were developed characters that showed growth throughout the story, there was a sweet and sexy romance, there were touching family moments, there was a fairly simple but still solid plot, and there was even circus!
The author did a great job of making me understand and sympathize with these characters' situations and emotions right away. Cory's parents died years ago, and he gave up pretty much everything (except his education) in order to take care of his little sister, but being her guardian put a major strain on their relationship to the point that they pretty much just argued or didn't talk at all, even though they're the only family each other has left. Sanderson, on the other hand, grew up with a traveling circus family, but all he wants now is to leave that life and stay in one place where he can make friends and date and have some normalcy, and he's tired of always being the one-night-stand but never the boyfriend. Then the two of them run into each other and fool around a couple times, but Cory can't deal with complications and figures Sanderson will eventually tire of him, and Sanderson thinks Cory isn't interested in anything more than sex. That's basically where the story starts, and I loved how much depth the characters had as well as the way all these things and more were explored as the story progressed.
I also just love carnivals and circuses, so I especially liked that aspect of the book. Pretty much the whole book was set at The Moonlight Market, this magical-esque traveling fair with all sorts of vendors and acts. And even though the amount of actual circus-ness in the book was minimal, I was glad that the descriptions of Sanderson's family's act were realistic (well, I couldn't quite figure out what was being described in some parts, but what I could figure out was realistic), and I especially loved that Sanderson had calluses! I know that's a really specific thing to love, but he was also a gymnast, so he would have calluses, and as a former gymnast it made me happy that that detail was included.
As for the plot, that was, as I said above, fairly simple but still interesting, and it worked because this was a more character-focused book.
So to wrap this up... This book had romance, family, character growth, magic, & circus and was overall a touching and enjoyable read!
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes character-focused books, sexy but sweet m/m romance, magic, and circus.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
July 5, 2017
Title: Moonlight Market
Author: Aidee Ladnier
Series:
Publisher: Loose Id LLC
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: August 15, 2016
Genre(s): Paranormal Male/Male Romance
Page Count: 194 pages
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
The Moonlight Market is a magical story where the strange and unusual come to life. Cory Long is trying so hard to keep what is left of his family intact. All he has left is his younger sister, Poe. An accident took so much from him and his sister. Now he just needs to stick to the plan. Get his degree and take care of his sister. He doesn’t have time for anything else including Sanderson Beets. The hook-up that makes him wish for something for himself. When Poe takes off leaving a cryptic note saying that she is joining the Moonlight Market, Cory begins a crazy adventure with Sanderson as his guide. Sanderson’s family are performers traveling from one place to another, but Sanderson wants something different. He wants stability. Sanderson makes a deal with a woman not to be trusted. The Dream Weaver gives Sanderson a shot at college, but when she demands payment to continue his education, Sanderson offers Cory’s memories of their time together hoping for a chance to make new memories. Unfortunately, the Dream Weaver wants more than Cory’s memories, she wants Cory. The chemistry between Cory and Sanderson starts off as a hot hook-up, but Sanderson wants more. As the story continues the relationship has the opportunity to grow to more than just the physical. The pacing is fast and interesting in a strange sort of way. If you take away the sexual aspect this story reminded me of the Goose Bump series that I use to read to my children when they were younger. There is also a little Dorian Gray going on. The story does have an edge of your seat dramatic ending. I loved how we learned about these characters. Not your typical flashback or way to build up the characters. I enjoyed this story in all its strangeness.
PLOT: 4 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 4 Stars
PACING: 4 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of The Moonlight Market provided by the Loose Id LLC I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
Author: Aidee Ladnier
Series:
Publisher: Loose Id LLC
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: August 15, 2016
Genre(s): Paranormal Male/Male Romance
Page Count: 194 pages
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
College senior Cory Long tracked his missing sister to the magical Moonlight Market to bring her home. Instead, he found a disorienting world of performers and hawkers, bizarre sights and sounds, and one very familiar showman, Sanderson Beets. Like a drowning man, he latched onto Sanderson, trusting him to navigate the twists and turns of the Market as unerringly as he had steered Cory to passion in their furtive trysts on campus.
But Sanderson was tired of being the quickie in the alley.
Sanderson Beets had escaped the Moonlight Market to attend college, hoping to settle into a normal life, maybe meet someone and fall in love. To obtain that new life he made a dangerous bargain. And when the sinister woman known as the Weaver of Dreams is involved, second chances always come with strings attached...and sacrifices. Sanderson’s debt has come due, and the only payment he has to offer is Cory and their chance at a relationship.
Review:
The Moonlight Market is a magical story where the strange and unusual come to life. Cory Long is trying so hard to keep what is left of his family intact. All he has left is his younger sister, Poe. An accident took so much from him and his sister. Now he just needs to stick to the plan. Get his degree and take care of his sister. He doesn’t have time for anything else including Sanderson Beets. The hook-up that makes him wish for something for himself. When Poe takes off leaving a cryptic note saying that she is joining the Moonlight Market, Cory begins a crazy adventure with Sanderson as his guide. Sanderson’s family are performers traveling from one place to another, but Sanderson wants something different. He wants stability. Sanderson makes a deal with a woman not to be trusted. The Dream Weaver gives Sanderson a shot at college, but when she demands payment to continue his education, Sanderson offers Cory’s memories of their time together hoping for a chance to make new memories. Unfortunately, the Dream Weaver wants more than Cory’s memories, she wants Cory. The chemistry between Cory and Sanderson starts off as a hot hook-up, but Sanderson wants more. As the story continues the relationship has the opportunity to grow to more than just the physical. The pacing is fast and interesting in a strange sort of way. If you take away the sexual aspect this story reminded me of the Goose Bump series that I use to read to my children when they were younger. There is also a little Dorian Gray going on. The story does have an edge of your seat dramatic ending. I loved how we learned about these characters. Not your typical flashback or way to build up the characters. I enjoyed this story in all its strangeness.
PLOT: 4 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 4 Stars
PACING: 4 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of The Moonlight Market provided by the Loose Id LLC I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
September 1, 2016
I received a copy of Moonlight Market from Reading Alley in exchange for my honest review.
I would categorize MM as a UF read, not a romance as categorized at Amazon. Despite Sanderson and Cory having several sexual encounters they are relatively brief. There wasn't enough non-sexual interaction to make me feel any connection between the two main characters. There is a mention that there might be some fate thing going on between the two, but it doesn't ring true for me. I would say this is a HFN book.
The story really focuses on Cory's search for his sister and Sanderson's getting out of debt for his university tuition to one of the other market performers.
I liked the market setting and the variety of people we meet there. The danger was conveyed effectively as well. The writing about the main characters' actions was a bit of a muddle when at the market. Cory and Sanderson waiver back and forth on a number of issues and actions. ("No I won't do that!" then the next minute he is. "I am going to do this." and starts then the next thing you know he's off in another direction.) Was this deliberate on the part of the author as a way to show that the market could possibly mess with people's minds? Is it because these are two young people who want one thing but are compelled to go against that by the influences of other people in their lives? I'm not sure which left me unsatisfied.
The book could have used 50 more pages to develop the characters and story line better.
I would categorize MM as a UF read, not a romance as categorized at Amazon. Despite Sanderson and Cory having several sexual encounters they are relatively brief. There wasn't enough non-sexual interaction to make me feel any connection between the two main characters. There is a mention that there might be some fate thing going on between the two, but it doesn't ring true for me. I would say this is a HFN book.
The story really focuses on Cory's search for his sister and Sanderson's getting out of debt for his university tuition to one of the other market performers.
I liked the market setting and the variety of people we meet there. The danger was conveyed effectively as well. The writing about the main characters' actions was a bit of a muddle when at the market. Cory and Sanderson waiver back and forth on a number of issues and actions. ("No I won't do that!" then the next minute he is. "I am going to do this." and starts then the next thing you know he's off in another direction.) Was this deliberate on the part of the author as a way to show that the market could possibly mess with people's minds? Is it because these are two young people who want one thing but are compelled to go against that by the influences of other people in their lives? I'm not sure which left me unsatisfied.
The book could have used 50 more pages to develop the characters and story line better.
October 12, 2016
Hot, Romantic, and Original!
Genres: Erotica, lgbqt, romance, fantasy, adventure
The Moonlight Market is a charming tale of romance, adventure, and magic. At first you're thrown into something hot and heavy. That's the first tug on a long spool of thread (Ha! You'll only get it if you read the story) that is unraveled throughout the chapters of this book. The author likes to keep you on your toes by throwing you all around the story. (Past, present, future, dream, reality) Usually, this kind of writing I find confusing. However, the author of this book has managed to do this in such a way that keeps the story light and engaging. Instead of frustration, you feel excitement. You want to know how these little snippets fit into the big picture. Now onto the story line...
Cory and Sanderson are the two main characters in this book. Personally, I fell in love with their relationship right away. They're both afraid to express themselves, so instead they start out as a steamy hook up. (The sex scenes in this are amazing, by the way!)
It's after the fact that readers learn more about these two. Mainly, you learn about their family lives/how their strained family relationships came to be. I'm trying very hard to keep away from spoilers.
So I'll just say both back stories are explained throughout the rising action of this novel. And both combine to create a heart throbbing climax to this incredibly original story about family, finding what's been lost, and a spectacularly described carnival aka The Moonlight Market. Five stars!
I received a copy of this book free via reading alley in exchange for an honest review.
Genres: Erotica, lgbqt, romance, fantasy, adventure
The Moonlight Market is a charming tale of romance, adventure, and magic. At first you're thrown into something hot and heavy. That's the first tug on a long spool of thread (Ha! You'll only get it if you read the story) that is unraveled throughout the chapters of this book. The author likes to keep you on your toes by throwing you all around the story. (Past, present, future, dream, reality) Usually, this kind of writing I find confusing. However, the author of this book has managed to do this in such a way that keeps the story light and engaging. Instead of frustration, you feel excitement. You want to know how these little snippets fit into the big picture. Now onto the story line...
Cory and Sanderson are the two main characters in this book. Personally, I fell in love with their relationship right away. They're both afraid to express themselves, so instead they start out as a steamy hook up. (The sex scenes in this are amazing, by the way!)
It's after the fact that readers learn more about these two. Mainly, you learn about their family lives/how their strained family relationships came to be. I'm trying very hard to keep away from spoilers.
So I'll just say both back stories are explained throughout the rising action of this novel. And both combine to create a heart throbbing climax to this incredibly original story about family, finding what's been lost, and a spectacularly described carnival aka The Moonlight Market. Five stars!
I received a copy of this book free via reading alley in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2016
WELCOME TO THE MOONLIGHT MARKET
Aidee Ladnier has woven a Great story of loss love and finding what you are looking for.
Great characters and story that kept me hooked .
I recommend this story to all who read romance.
5 Moonlight Stars
Aidee Ladnier has woven a Great story of loss love and finding what you are looking for.
Great characters and story that kept me hooked .
I recommend this story to all who read romance.
5 Moonlight Stars
March 21, 2017
It's good, I couldn't put it down, but I was irritated with Poe. She just walked away, not bothering to talk, but Cory was the one to blame because he didn't pay attention enough? She kept withholding parts of herself away from Cory, not trying to get through to him, but it was Cory who should have known better. It pissed me off. She was a spoiled little princess far too interested and invested in her own pain but somehow all the blames were Cory's. Ugh.
September 16, 2016
Letting go.
Sep 10, 2016
I liked this book but I felt at loose ends about it. It was very "Alice Through the Looking Glass" at times. (Okay, MOST times.) I haven't read a Steampunk novel but if you can 'see'
the characters with high boots, corsets, lot of lace [women] and wool trousers with braces [men], then I believe I have just read a steampunk novel.
Cory, still trying to be the Dutiful Son to parents that died in a car crash, is trying to keep he and his sister together. (She, Poe, was in the crash with them.) Poe is now 19 and wants her own life. She's done therapy, getting skin grafts for her burns, etc. but it is now time for her to move on. She meets a wonderful guy who is helping her cope with her fire problem and she chooses to run away to the Midnight Market.
While on campus, to have a bit of a social, Cory meets Sanderson at an LGBTQ meeting. They hit it off. It seems Sanderson's family is a performance troupe at the Market and they need him to perform, in between helping Cory locate his sister.
These characters felt real to me and I enjoyed how they developed and grew. The sex scenes were superb, being more sensual and less chaotic (hurried?) than a month or so down the line. (Oops! Did I say that??)
January 29, 2017
This is my first book by Aidee Laidner and I was pleasantly surprised. The prose was tight and the character’s plight engaging, and just a tad frightening because the Weaver was defiantly scary. I had to keep telling myself that I would get an HEA/HFN, just keep reading whenever she came on page.
Cory was trying so hard to hold on to what remained of his fractured family and with every passing year, he was more depressed and miserable. Both him and Poe kept saying, “it’s what our parents would want” but it obviously wasn’t working. Cory was denying himself any sort of happiness and I kept waiting for the explanation why once I realized Poe wasn’t a child but nineteen years old. I could understand why he kept pushing Sanderson away if Poe had been much younger.
I wasn’t sure if I could connect with Sanderson because he was a circus performer. Even a child I wasn’t interested in Big Top performances but when I got to see him put on the act and how he was such a different person to Cory’s eyes, giving an almost mystical feel to the surroundings I was hooked. He was suddenly a character with two faces/personalities and more depth. I eagerly wanted to know more about him.
Like I said, the Weaver was creepy. I would be one who avoided her at all cost and wanted to thump Sanderson for thinking she had his best interest at heart. She was sinister and the flashes of… a predator and possibility a thing of evil the author gave of her was awesome.
Between Cory and Sanderson there is a bit of back and forth where they tell themselves, “No, I’m not going to do…” and then the next paragraph they do the opposite. It was frustrating sometimes but in a couple of cases was understandable, especially when they were pushed by outside forces. There are touching family moments even though I wanted to thump Poe for how she treated Cory. Sanderson made a couple of bad decisions but he tried to rectify them. The last quarter of the book was a fast paced page turner that kept me on my toes.
All in all, this was a very enjoyable read. The writing was tight, giving the story a mystical feel, especially when they entered the market. Cory had my heart from the beginning. The foreshadowing around the Weaver made my skin crawl. Definitely a book that I would recommend to friends.
Reviewed by Rachelle for Crystal's Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
Cory was trying so hard to hold on to what remained of his fractured family and with every passing year, he was more depressed and miserable. Both him and Poe kept saying, “it’s what our parents would want” but it obviously wasn’t working. Cory was denying himself any sort of happiness and I kept waiting for the explanation why once I realized Poe wasn’t a child but nineteen years old. I could understand why he kept pushing Sanderson away if Poe had been much younger.
I wasn’t sure if I could connect with Sanderson because he was a circus performer. Even a child I wasn’t interested in Big Top performances but when I got to see him put on the act and how he was such a different person to Cory’s eyes, giving an almost mystical feel to the surroundings I was hooked. He was suddenly a character with two faces/personalities and more depth. I eagerly wanted to know more about him.
Like I said, the Weaver was creepy. I would be one who avoided her at all cost and wanted to thump Sanderson for thinking she had his best interest at heart. She was sinister and the flashes of… a predator and possibility a thing of evil the author gave of her was awesome.
Between Cory and Sanderson there is a bit of back and forth where they tell themselves, “No, I’m not going to do…” and then the next paragraph they do the opposite. It was frustrating sometimes but in a couple of cases was understandable, especially when they were pushed by outside forces. There are touching family moments even though I wanted to thump Poe for how she treated Cory. Sanderson made a couple of bad decisions but he tried to rectify them. The last quarter of the book was a fast paced page turner that kept me on my toes.
All in all, this was a very enjoyable read. The writing was tight, giving the story a mystical feel, especially when they entered the market. Cory had my heart from the beginning. The foreshadowing around the Weaver made my skin crawl. Definitely a book that I would recommend to friends.
Reviewed by Rachelle for Crystal's Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
August 26, 2016
Review copy provided via Reading Alley in exchange for an honest review.
Great tale
To elude a fight with his younger sister, Cory Long, decides to attend an on campus LGBTQ meet up. There he hooks up with Sanderson Beets, a member of the LGBTQ volunteer admin. A day or so later his sister runs away/abandons him leaving a note telling him she's leaving with the Moonlight Market. Cory goes in search. In the process he runs into Sanderson who volunteers to help him since he was once a member of a troupe that attended the event.
Sanderson has his own set of problems. His debt to a witch is called in. Sanderson has to find a lost soul and turn the individual over to the witch. Cory seems like the perfect candidate. Sanderson is totally gone on Cory but doesn't want to lose his much hard earned freedom. But the debt must be paid and the witch is determined to get her due.
This was such an intriguing story and I wasn't altogether sure what to expect. It had a bit of a Rumpelstiltskin feel to it and was such an easy read to try to breeze through if left uninterrupted. I enjoyed it immensely.
I like that the characters emotional state, wants and needs were well showcased in the story. It really allowed readers to better know the characters, their flaws and the norm for them.
At the start I hated Poe so much. I thought she was such a selfish little immature brat. The way she went about leaving Cory was horrible. It felt like a slap in the face and I felt she wronged Cory horridly by doing so. My irritation at her selfishness lessened the enjoyment of the story. I was extremely vexed when the story focused on her cowardly actions and her needs. She's nineteen no longer a kid who shouldn't think of her actions and the conquences.
Sanderson too was a bit like Poe. A bit selfish and willing to do anything so that he could live a happy life. But I was glad he saw the errors of his way and even tried to right it.
The romantic development was just right for the story. Cory and Sanderson only know each other for a few days (maybe four?) but it feels like longer. They get close while searching for Poe and learn a lot about each other and they just click.
That being said the reunion between siblings were bittersweet and brought tears to my eyes.
I was glad there was that closure and everyone found a new way.
Great tale
To elude a fight with his younger sister, Cory Long, decides to attend an on campus LGBTQ meet up. There he hooks up with Sanderson Beets, a member of the LGBTQ volunteer admin. A day or so later his sister runs away/abandons him leaving a note telling him she's leaving with the Moonlight Market. Cory goes in search. In the process he runs into Sanderson who volunteers to help him since he was once a member of a troupe that attended the event.
Sanderson has his own set of problems. His debt to a witch is called in. Sanderson has to find a lost soul and turn the individual over to the witch. Cory seems like the perfect candidate. Sanderson is totally gone on Cory but doesn't want to lose his much hard earned freedom. But the debt must be paid and the witch is determined to get her due.
This was such an intriguing story and I wasn't altogether sure what to expect. It had a bit of a Rumpelstiltskin feel to it and was such an easy read to try to breeze through if left uninterrupted. I enjoyed it immensely.
I like that the characters emotional state, wants and needs were well showcased in the story. It really allowed readers to better know the characters, their flaws and the norm for them.
At the start I hated Poe so much. I thought she was such a selfish little immature brat. The way she went about leaving Cory was horrible. It felt like a slap in the face and I felt she wronged Cory horridly by doing so. My irritation at her selfishness lessened the enjoyment of the story. I was extremely vexed when the story focused on her cowardly actions and her needs. She's nineteen no longer a kid who shouldn't think of her actions and the conquences.
Sanderson too was a bit like Poe. A bit selfish and willing to do anything so that he could live a happy life. But I was glad he saw the errors of his way and even tried to right it.
The romantic development was just right for the story. Cory and Sanderson only know each other for a few days (maybe four?) but it feels like longer. They get close while searching for Poe and learn a lot about each other and they just click.
That being said the reunion between siblings were bittersweet and brought tears to my eyes.
I was glad there was that closure and everyone found a new way.
September 8, 2016
A great M/M story with a plot full of mystery
A copy was provided to me by the ReadingAlley in exchange for an honest and unbias review.
Cory meets Sanderson and a LGBTQ meet up and they hook up in a closet afterwards.
Cory feels he can't have more then a quick hook up because of the weight of responsibility he feels to his sister and their dead parents. But it's obvious he wants more, but he fights himself consistently on it.
Sanderson wants to put roots down, he made a deal with the devil to get out of the circus lifestyle and go to college. He feels a connection with Cory and wants to pursue it, they hook up again, but Sanderson just starts to feel used.
But then Cory needs help finding his wayward sister, she's run off to the fair to join a troupe and Sanderson's there, helping out family when his debt is called in.
Will Sanderson help Cory find his sister, or will he just use him, like he felt used, to pay off his debt?
I really enjoyed this fast paced story. The majority of the story happens at the fair grounds, but we still learn about their pasts and hopes for the future.
Poe, the sister, even gets her voice heard. I really liked Cory and Sanderson. There was a bit of angst, and will they, won't they, and he wouldn't would he? There was quite a bit of mystery, and the reader not getting the whole picture, but I felt it was written will with enough clues to not make it hard to follow, and guess at what was happening.
Although I found the sex scenes sometimes strangely timed, they were hot and went to prove the boys really did want each other.
I liked all the supporting characters, I found they added to the story and mystery really well. I would happily recommend this book to anyone who like M/M romance with a little bit of angst, a plot full of mystery and two hot guys!
A copy was provided to me by the ReadingAlley in exchange for an honest and unbias review.
Cory meets Sanderson and a LGBTQ meet up and they hook up in a closet afterwards.
Cory feels he can't have more then a quick hook up because of the weight of responsibility he feels to his sister and their dead parents. But it's obvious he wants more, but he fights himself consistently on it.
Sanderson wants to put roots down, he made a deal with the devil to get out of the circus lifestyle and go to college. He feels a connection with Cory and wants to pursue it, they hook up again, but Sanderson just starts to feel used.
But then Cory needs help finding his wayward sister, she's run off to the fair to join a troupe and Sanderson's there, helping out family when his debt is called in.
Will Sanderson help Cory find his sister, or will he just use him, like he felt used, to pay off his debt?
I really enjoyed this fast paced story. The majority of the story happens at the fair grounds, but we still learn about their pasts and hopes for the future.
Poe, the sister, even gets her voice heard. I really liked Cory and Sanderson. There was a bit of angst, and will they, won't they, and he wouldn't would he? There was quite a bit of mystery, and the reader not getting the whole picture, but I felt it was written will with enough clues to not make it hard to follow, and guess at what was happening.
Although I found the sex scenes sometimes strangely timed, they were hot and went to prove the boys really did want each other.
I liked all the supporting characters, I found they added to the story and mystery really well. I would happily recommend this book to anyone who like M/M romance with a little bit of angst, a plot full of mystery and two hot guys!
January 11, 2021
Story : ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Narration : ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I absolutely loved journeying into the mystical and mysterious Moonlight Market.
The world building was unique, engaging, descriptive and drew me in.
Cory and Sanderson were likeable, well fleshed out characters and I liked following their story.
I loved the element of magic introduced in the book with a carnival cum circus setting.
I found the storyline to ve highly compelling and entertaining overall.
Christopher Rourke performs a brilliant and near perfect audio delivery which made listening to this all the more enjoyable.
Narration : ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I absolutely loved journeying into the mystical and mysterious Moonlight Market.
The world building was unique, engaging, descriptive and drew me in.
Cory and Sanderson were likeable, well fleshed out characters and I liked following their story.
I loved the element of magic introduced in the book with a carnival cum circus setting.
I found the storyline to ve highly compelling and entertaining overall.
Christopher Rourke performs a brilliant and near perfect audio delivery which made listening to this all the more enjoyable.
May 9, 2020
Astounding. This story was magical (no pun intended). It was very reminiscent of The Night Circus (one of my all time fave books, ever). It also had a bit of Neil Gaiman in there (the Market from Neverwhere, specifically). Add in the hot, and you've got The Moonlight Market.
The one thing that would have made it better was to build the supporting characters up some. Especially Sanderson's family - I think that would have made me feel closer to the story.
The one thing that would have made it better was to build the supporting characters up some. Especially Sanderson's family - I think that would have made me feel closer to the story.
January 9, 2017
Original setting, good story
I loved the unusual setting and the author's style. This is a good M/M romance story, with well-written characters and plot in a refreshingly new setting. I loved reading about these characters. Moonlight Market was a great read and I can't wait to read more from Aidee Ladnier.
I loved the unusual setting and the author's style. This is a good M/M romance story, with well-written characters and plot in a refreshingly new setting. I loved reading about these characters. Moonlight Market was a great read and I can't wait to read more from Aidee Ladnier.
July 10, 2017
3.5 Stars
December 8, 2017
Neither very romantic nor that engaging as a piece of fantasy; I kept waiting for something great or terrible to happen, and got disappointed, all the more so since the book ends in a non-committal way (a weak, unimaginative HFN that provides no closure). On retrospect, this was probably to be expected from the sheer distribution of topics in the story. The amorous intrigue occupies perhaps seventy pages, between the awkward progress of the two heroes towards a relationship and their boring, teenager-like love scenes, all the remainder being filled to excess with two plot points that, if they do not actually boil down to precious little, are nonetheless quite insubstantial because Mrs Ladnier's storytelling failed to develop them in a compelling manner: Cory's search for his (bitch of a) sister and Sanderson's life outside of the Moonlight Market, including the high price his stipend came at. Nor is this novel what I could satisfactorily qualify as paranormal, since the one and only character who indeed wields power, Niari, the Weaver, a mysterious, gloomy hag whose tent looks like an extension of her persona, does no give us a grand show of magic when at last her abilities are put to the fore as she is confronted by Sanderson over his debt. The very decision to stage Niari as an antagonist without turning her into a truly dark character, let alone a force of evil, needed a good deal of nuances; this balancing act seems off, for her character remains hazy under the gaudy veneer she is given cortesy of a prose style meant to elicit applause because of its richly layered texture full of synonyms and recherché vocabulary but which actually comes at the price of artificiality (this is what I like to call being doctus cum thesauro, learned through the use of a thesaurus). The caracters demanded much more depth, particularly those of Cory (your run-off-the-mill undergraduate student with entirely too much free time on his hands) and Sanderson; as both of them stand, I felt a disconnect with them from the start. The same applies to the world building insofar as the Moonlight Market and its more or less mystical underbelly go; they should have been fleshed out a lot more, which was easy enough to do by curbing down non-essential parts such as the evocations of Sanderson's academic dreams or Cory's anguish over his sister. Unfortunately, all the literary work Mrs Ladnier is capable of seems to have been spent instead on the rather affecté writing, resulting in an entertaining but narrow-minded and fuzzy narrative.
October 27, 2016
Moonlight Market is an M/M story about wanting love, fighting against love, and struggling not to let it go. Then add in some wacky characters, a missing sister, a magical twist in the plot, and you have a great read. I typically don’t read many LGBQT type books, but I really enjoyed this one. It does contain explicit sexual scenes, but the story isn’t drowning in them like some books I’ve come across. There’s a good balance with the explicit content. I found the growing relationship between Cory and Sanderson to be quite sweet. The author’s writing flowed nicely, which is a big plus for me. I hate the nuisance of seeing repeating errors or when I have to re-read sentences, and I had no problems here. As an independent reviewer for Romance Authors That Rock, I give (5) stars and recommend this book to mature audiences 18+ who have an open mind with same sex relationships and enjoy books with love, mystery, magic, drama, and an HEA.
October 2, 2022
3.5 Stars
Parts of this were super creepy- not scary just creepy. I’m not sure I really felt the connection between the Cory and Sanderson; Sanderson seemed much more invested while Cory just wanted to find his sister. I didn’t like Poe’s treatment of her brother. She was selfish but in the end I understood even though I felt for Cory so much. The Market was engrossing and magical with all sorts of interesting characters. It ended well and with hope for a happy future.
I wasn’t sure about the narration at first, it was a little echoey, but his voice grew on me and his accents were excellent.
Parts of this were super creepy- not scary just creepy. I’m not sure I really felt the connection between the Cory and Sanderson; Sanderson seemed much more invested while Cory just wanted to find his sister. I didn’t like Poe’s treatment of her brother. She was selfish but in the end I understood even though I felt for Cory so much. The Market was engrossing and magical with all sorts of interesting characters. It ended well and with hope for a happy future.
I wasn’t sure about the narration at first, it was a little echoey, but his voice grew on me and his accents were excellent.
March 29, 2017
Not bad. Just not for me. Found the characters and plot just a bit too jumpy.
September 10, 2016
3.5 Stars
I gotta say my first thoughts is that this would be much better as a movie. Not Burton. Probably Del Toro.
That being said this was a fun, fast read. Though I wish it would have been longer; a little more development and some of the issues I had with it might have vanished. In that sense the relationship felt a little rushed, but it was charming and sweet so it evened out.
Can I just say that I loved The Weaver. She was dangerous and spooky without being outright evil. Because, come on, everyone else is going back on their deals with her; I'd be angry too.
The characters were varied and thought out. The sexy times were well written and seemed befitting of early 20-somethings; the hurried off the path hookup, texting the roommate to have some private time. Though there were some moments that had me thinking the author should put down the thesaurus.
All in all it was a nice, light read. And I still stand by my first thought: it would be great as a movie. I mean that final scene with The Weaver! That would be incredible on film!!! For this being my first book from this author I am intrigued. The idea was really creative and the execution not too shabby. I'll have to keep my eye out for her other books.
Thank you to Netgalley and Loose ID LLC for a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Incoming Rant:
I gotta say my first thoughts is that this would be much better as a movie. Not Burton. Probably Del Toro.
That being said this was a fun, fast read. Though I wish it would have been longer; a little more development and some of the issues I had with it might have vanished. In that sense the relationship felt a little rushed, but it was charming and sweet so it evened out.
Can I just say that I loved The Weaver. She was dangerous and spooky without being outright evil. Because, come on, everyone else is going back on their deals with her; I'd be angry too.
The characters were varied and thought out. The sexy times were well written and seemed befitting of early 20-somethings; the hurried off the path hookup, texting the roommate to have some private time. Though there were some moments that had me thinking the author should put down the thesaurus.
All in all it was a nice, light read. And I still stand by my first thought: it would be great as a movie. I mean that final scene with The Weaver! That would be incredible on film!!! For this being my first book from this author I am intrigued. The idea was really creative and the execution not too shabby. I'll have to keep my eye out for her other books.
Thank you to Netgalley and Loose ID LLC for a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Incoming Rant:
November 11, 2016
3.5 / 5 Stars
Not your usual fantasy story, I couldn't wait to know what was going to happen with the characters in the end.
Cory is busy with collegue and work as a professor's assistant. Too busy that he doesn't notice his sister, with whom he has a strained brother-sister relationship, has left him. He knows their have trouble and don't talk as they used to, but after their parents' death, thingswent from bad to worse. Just when he's trying to relax, he meets Sanderson, a very handsome guy who gave up the life in the circus in exchange of what his family consider a boring existence. What nobdy knows is that he bargained for this freedom but now he has to pay the price and time is running.
I liked the main plot because it was different and I couldn't guess what was going to happen to Cory in the end. The description of the different people and their role at the Moonlight Market, their eccentric behavior and somewhat shady disposition to help Cory find her sister, make their journey entertaining and disturbing at the same time.
Nonetheless, I couldn't connnect with the characters, their interaction felt empty most of the time and I could only see glimpses of Cory's and Sanderson's attraction. But when it did show, it was worth it, they were real good together. Sadly, it was not enough, their secenes together seemed cut short. Also, after all that Cory went through, he was pretty calm... shock maybe?... wasn't he concerned about the over-the-top strange things going around him? I think he lost his instinct of self preservation somewhere along the way. I did like Sanderson, he acted a bit too naive and innocent but that was what made him so charming.
On the other hand, I didn't like Poe, Cory's sister. I just couldn't. I get that she went through a rough time, that she was dealing with a bunch of stuff. But the way she did things didn't show maturity, far from it, it showed how selfish she acted in the first place.
All in all, I will look up the rest of the author's work, I enjoyed her writing style and would like to try more of her books.
*I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book, which was provided by Reading Alley*
Not your usual fantasy story, I couldn't wait to know what was going to happen with the characters in the end.
Cory is busy with collegue and work as a professor's assistant. Too busy that he doesn't notice his sister, with whom he has a strained brother-sister relationship, has left him. He knows their have trouble and don't talk as they used to, but after their parents' death, thingswent from bad to worse. Just when he's trying to relax, he meets Sanderson, a very handsome guy who gave up the life in the circus in exchange of what his family consider a boring existence. What nobdy knows is that he bargained for this freedom but now he has to pay the price and time is running.
I liked the main plot because it was different and I couldn't guess what was going to happen to Cory in the end. The description of the different people and their role at the Moonlight Market, their eccentric behavior and somewhat shady disposition to help Cory find her sister, make their journey entertaining and disturbing at the same time.
Nonetheless, I couldn't connnect with the characters, their interaction felt empty most of the time and I could only see glimpses of Cory's and Sanderson's attraction. But when it did show, it was worth it, they were real good together. Sadly, it was not enough, their secenes together seemed cut short. Also, after all that Cory went through, he was pretty calm... shock maybe?... wasn't he concerned about the over-the-top strange things going around him? I think he lost his instinct of self preservation somewhere along the way. I did like Sanderson, he acted a bit too naive and innocent but that was what made him so charming.
On the other hand, I didn't like Poe, Cory's sister. I just couldn't. I get that she went through a rough time, that she was dealing with a bunch of stuff. But the way she did things didn't show maturity, far from it, it showed how selfish she acted in the first place.
All in all, I will look up the rest of the author's work, I enjoyed her writing style and would like to try more of her books.
*I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book, which was provided by Reading Alley*
August 24, 2016
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Moonlight Market was an interesting story focused on Cory's search for his sister and Sanderson's dilemma over how to pay his debt to the Weaver. What I liked most about the story were the Market itself and all the interesting characters Sanderson and Cory met during their search through the Market, a bit like a mystical, non-Christian Pilgrim’s Progress. I also enjoyed how the fantastical elements were introduced slowly, building up to an exciting end and the gradual unveiling of secrets/back stories. The last quarter of the story was quite riveting.
However, I felt that the relationship between Cory and Sanderson wasn't developed enough. There did not seem to be much reason for them to be drawn to each other other than for sex (of which there are several scenes – but most of them, to me, lacked an emotional resonance) or because of a vague, unexplained “predetermined” or “fated” connection. I also could not fully buy into some of Sanderson and Cory’s actions. They jumped from one decision to the opposite with scant motivation. Maybe that was the effect of the Market, but that was not apparent.
This is probably a personal issue for me, but there were oddly structured sentences in the book that pulled me out of the story because my brain had to reorganize them.
Overall, I found the concept, supporting characters and plot to be entertaining and enjoyable. The story moved along well and I liked the way Cory’s search ended. The relationship between Cory and Sanderson was a HFN with a chance for more, which I thought was appropriate given where they were in their lives and how little they knew each other.
Moonlight Market was an interesting story focused on Cory's search for his sister and Sanderson's dilemma over how to pay his debt to the Weaver. What I liked most about the story were the Market itself and all the interesting characters Sanderson and Cory met during their search through the Market, a bit like a mystical, non-Christian Pilgrim’s Progress. I also enjoyed how the fantastical elements were introduced slowly, building up to an exciting end and the gradual unveiling of secrets/back stories. The last quarter of the story was quite riveting.
However, I felt that the relationship between Cory and Sanderson wasn't developed enough. There did not seem to be much reason for them to be drawn to each other other than for sex (of which there are several scenes – but most of them, to me, lacked an emotional resonance) or because of a vague, unexplained “predetermined” or “fated” connection. I also could not fully buy into some of Sanderson and Cory’s actions. They jumped from one decision to the opposite with scant motivation. Maybe that was the effect of the Market, but that was not apparent.
This is probably a personal issue for me, but there were oddly structured sentences in the book that pulled me out of the story because my brain had to reorganize them.
Overall, I found the concept, supporting characters and plot to be entertaining and enjoyable. The story moved along well and I liked the way Cory’s search ended. The relationship between Cory and Sanderson was a HFN with a chance for more, which I thought was appropriate given where they were in their lives and how little they knew each other.
April 17, 2017
Have I been cursed? Suddenly I'm reading books I don't like more often...
The Moonlight Market failed to engage me on any level possible. I'm not giving the book 1 star simply because I managed to finish it and it wasn't totally unreadable.
Some particular things I didn't like:
- The characters were flat and two-dimensional. Cory is the smart guy in glass with troubled past and family issues. Sanderson is a jock type of character, he's an acrobat, but he wants to go to college to change his life. And obviously, these two are madly deeply in love after couple of words exchanged and a quickie. Because who needs a build-up, right?
- Romance might've been the worst I've recently read. No build-up, barely any chemistry between the characters or any common ground. There's just sex, manipulation, guilt and more sex. Cory, your sister's missing and you chooses to make out with a hot dude. Priorities.
Honestly, it was so annoying to read. All the moony eyes and thoughts about ~connection~ they have with each other. I can go on and on, but it's almost 1 a.m., so let's change topic.
-The plot could've been okay. Big brother tries to find his sister in mysterious circus with his new hookup arm candy/helpful dude. Could've been good, I think... In reality, the plot was boring, predictable and didn't make any sense. Characters made stupid decisions, the dialogues were awkward and the conflict resolution was anticlimactic.
- The third person pov narration usually works for me better the 1st person. However, the novel had 3 povs: 2 mains and the third Cory's little sister pov, which was completely unnecessary and showed up at random.
- The paranormal elements were basically non-existent, the antagonist had powers, but that's about it. Story set in circus with witches and warlocks etc etc had so much potential. And what did we get? Yes, Cory and Sanderson making out behind the tent.
Honestly, I think I like Sanderson's family and the part about Long siblings being shit at dealing with grief and loss. The rest of the novel has gotten in my last damn nerve.
The Moonlight Market failed to engage me on any level possible. I'm not giving the book 1 star simply because I managed to finish it and it wasn't totally unreadable.
Some particular things I didn't like:
- The characters were flat and two-dimensional. Cory is the smart guy in glass with troubled past and family issues. Sanderson is a jock type of character, he's an acrobat, but he wants to go to college to change his life. And obviously, these two are madly deeply in love after couple of words exchanged and a quickie. Because who needs a build-up, right?
- Romance might've been the worst I've recently read. No build-up, barely any chemistry between the characters or any common ground. There's just sex, manipulation, guilt and more sex. Cory, your sister's missing and you chooses to make out with a hot dude. Priorities.
Honestly, it was so annoying to read. All the moony eyes and thoughts about ~connection~ they have with each other. I can go on and on, but it's almost 1 a.m., so let's change topic.
-The plot could've been okay. Big brother tries to find his sister in mysterious circus with his new hookup arm candy/helpful dude. Could've been good, I think... In reality, the plot was boring, predictable and didn't make any sense. Characters made stupid decisions, the dialogues were awkward and the conflict resolution was anticlimactic.
- The third person pov narration usually works for me better the 1st person. However, the novel had 3 povs: 2 mains and the third Cory's little sister pov, which was completely unnecessary and showed up at random.
- The paranormal elements were basically non-existent, the antagonist had powers, but that's about it. Story set in circus with witches and warlocks etc etc had so much potential. And what did we get? Yes, Cory and Sanderson making out behind the tent.
Honestly, I think I like Sanderson's family and the part about Long siblings being shit at dealing with grief and loss. The rest of the novel has gotten in my last damn nerve.
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