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Ruby Moon embodies a tale of grief, guilt, and romance set on the shores of Lake Superior in Ontario during the mid 1890’s. Jenay, a young woman of mixed French and Ojibwe descent, must survive the trauma of causing a horrific accident. Her maturity accelerates as the challenges of grief, and romance enter the scene.

Amidst this drama, Jenay is caught in a web spun by Renault, a rich, charming man who once threatened ruination of her father’s shipping company but now seeks something even more valuable–Jenay. Renault, her past enemy, suddenly becomes her friend then something more . . . Will she leave the man she loves for this new found affection?

Jenay must find where her strength lies in order to face the challenges life brings her or be washed away like driftwood on the tumultuous shores of Lake Superior. Life’s richest dramas are played out under the banner of two ruby colored moons and become the hidden gems which forge her into a mature strong woman. Jenay realizes God is by her side, using even the harsh events of life to create something precious in her.

363 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2019

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Jenny Knipfer

14 books426 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
Profile Image for David Fitz-Gerald.
Author 19 books252 followers
January 19, 2020
“The flowers and trees seemed to speak her name...”

This book revolves around its heroine, Jenay Follett, a young woman who lived with her small family in Webaashi Bay, a fictional town on the shores of Lake Superior. Her small family included her father, John Pierre, and his sister, Jenay’s Aunt Angelica. Jenay’s mother, Celeste, was a Native American from the Ojibwe tribe that lived in the woodlands surrounding the Great Lakes. Celeste didn’t survive Jenay’s childbirth. Jenay spent a great deal of time in the company of her mother’s sister, Aunt Maang-ikwe. The book is full of linguistic references to the French and Ojibwe languages, for example, the French word for aunt, or taunt is frequently used. Jenay preferred spending time in the woods learning about plants and natural remedies from her Aunt Maang-ikwe. Aunt Angelica was too proper and was overly concerned with fancy garments. Ultimately, Jenay got much strength and knowledge from both aunts. This wisdom is one of the best aspects of this book.

Jenay was independent and rebellious. She had dark, messy hair and wore a doeskin skirt. Jenay was not concerned with how she looked. As the author put it, “The flowers and trees seemed to speak her name, her language.” Jenay’s Aunt Angelica was unable to convince her to be more lady-like but as the events in the book unfolded, Jenay was forced to grow up fast and mature well beyond her years. Jenay is a most likable heroine, and the readers will enjoy empathizing with her.

It was touching reading the Author’s Note after finishing Ruby Moon. The love, wisdom, and personal touches the author wove into this novel were very endearing. I love the little bird that perches between sections of the book within its chapters. I like to think of the bonuses as part of the book, including the quotes, Bible verses, and Herbal Salve Recipe. I think the author’s willingness to share her personal story will inspire others―and increase awareness about the challenges she has struggled with. Near the end, she states, “I consider the writing of this novel a determined miracle.”

Just look at what can happen when faith, miracles, and an unstoppable human spirit get together. The characters were well constructed, the villain was sufficiently menacing, and the story was a tale well worth following. I enjoyed reading Ruby Moon and I am happy to recommend it.
Profile Image for Lori.
1,892 reviews136 followers
August 4, 2020
I gave this story a five star because of the setting of the book and the way the author has described the scenes in the story. In turn, that made me feel like I was there feeling the frustrations of Janay as she comes of age and learning right along with her.
The Bible verses that were in there the author managed to somehow make them fit perfectly.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story even as I was skeptical at the beginning. But, now I'm glad I finished it all the way through along with the theme of faith and forgiveness.
Janay has led an interesting life. There have been many times that I've felt much like she does while growing up. I've asked myself many times why we women have to go through certain things in life.
It's great that this book has a little bit of everything woven in to make a perfect read!
How wonderful it would be to see Lake Superior then for myself. To think how untouched and unspoiled it would look. Thanks to this author I was able to "see" that.
Lake Superior is the most beautiful lake of the five and my favorite place to visit.
I wouldn't have come across this book if it weren't for JustReads tours. I'm glad I did.
It was a fresh and delightful read all at the same time.
I highly recommend. You won't regret it one bit. Hours will have flown by before you know it.
I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Paula Singleton.
191 reviews2 followers
December 22, 2020
Good historical fiction

This was my first book by this author. I really enjoyed reading about Jenay's story. This book was part mystery,which you really don't find out about until three fourths of the way in the book. It is also a coming of age story in the 1890`s. Jenay had two very different aunts that helped raise her, one an Indian and one a strict old maid. The had such different styles but were just what she needed at different times in her life. Jenay is to inherent her deceased fathers ore shipping company and this book ended very interesting for her business. Can't wait to see what happens in the next book as this definitely left a cliff hanger.
Profile Image for Katja Labonté.
Author 31 books341 followers
March 17, 2021
2 stars & 2/10 hearts. I have mixed feelings about this book. The narrator’s language was too modern, which brothered me. I disliked the content of this book. There were some mentions of wanting a woman, thinking about her body, her sharing her body, etc; mentions of a period; a slightly detailed birthing scene; La Rue & a woman make love in a hotel room... and the whole problem of La Rue wanting Jenay & assaulting her. And I felt like the story was really aimed at married couples, all about having secrets & getting attracted to another man. The religion was half-Catholic and I wasn’t sure if the characters were saved, and there was some Native American spiritualism mixed in. On the other hand, the French & Indian language was perfectly woven into the dialogue (I found one mistake but the author will be changing it). I loved Jacque. And there were some good little lessons run through the book. Basically, I won’t read this again, but I don’t completely regret reading it. Recommended age: 18+

A Favourite Quote: “Strangely, I am not anxious about it. I have this strange sense of peace that I am sure can only be coming from God. How thankful I am for this assurance that no matter what happens, I will be well, our little family will be well. Nothing comes to us that does first not go through the hands of a loving and wise God. I am trusting in that fact alone.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “How good it is to hear the roll of the waves of Gitchi-gami. It was the music of wind on water. The repeating sound was soothing to her soul.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “‘Botheration!’ exclaimed John Pierre Follett out loud to himself. ‘The man obviously does not comprehend the meaning of the word, NO!’”

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
Profile Image for Jane.
1,307 reviews45 followers
August 2, 2020
Jenay, the main character in Ruby Moon, is part Ojibwe - Jenny Knipfer is as well; she wrote this book based on her Native American heritage. For most of the book, there are 2 timelines which start out about a year apart and gradually meld into one timeline near the end of the book. I had a hard time getting used to this layout and for a while found myself flipping back to be reminded of the dates. I understand the reason behind it. This method does help build the suspense of the story.
Jenny Knipfer has developed likeable characters and her plot is intriguing. The book is not without sadness and may bring tears to readers who have experienced some of the same situations. Knipfer deals with some difficult topics which, according to the end notes, she researched before including them in the story.
A discussion guide is included at the end of the book making Ruby Moon a potential choice for a book club. Ruby Moon is the first book in Jenny Knipfer’s By the Light of the Moon series. I look forward to reading other titles in this series.
Ruby Moon is adult historical fiction. I am not sure I would place it in a K-12 Christian school library. The only reason for this is the description of the birthing process which is probably not appropriate for most teens.
I received a complimentary copy of Ruby Moon. This is my honest review.

17 reviews4 followers
August 8, 2020
Ruby Moon is the first book in a trilogy. I enjoyed the story. Jenay went through do much in a couple of years. We see her strength, how she learned to trust the Lord and how she did her best to uphold her standard. What I enjoyed most was learning about the Ojibwe. I like historical fiction and the author did not disappoint. The book shows the labour of love that was put into the story. The detail, the style and the plot twist are commendable. The author shed light on the effect of trauma. It's important to always advocate for your health. The story is unique. I didn't really like the flashbacks at first but I got used to it. All in all, it was a pleasant book to me.
Profile Image for Jackie.
30 reviews15 followers
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August 21, 2020
This book was so interesting and unique. I loved that the main character isn't your typical protagonist. She is a strong independent heroine who knows her own mind. I loved that she was not your traditional protagonist for the time period. I also enjoyed all of the additional pieces of writing that added to the story like: Bible verses, letters, quotations, and dates which mimicked journal entries. In some parts the description of the setting and objects in the setting overwhelmed and took away from the development of characters and plot. Overall, I absolutely would recommend this book to someone who loves historical fiction set around the Victorian era.
Profile Image for Amanda  H.
834 reviews53 followers
October 23, 2020
This is a wonderful book that brings to life an interesting part of history. I enjoyed getting to know Janay as she works out what is missing in her memories about what happened leading up to her holding a bloody knife. Janey struggles to figure out how she fits into the two worlds she is born into, which I found to be a unique story in and of itself.

Overall, I enjoyed this book and thought that the pace was well done. I look forward to reading the other books in this series!

I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review.
13 reviews
April 11, 2020
Ruby Moon by Jenny Knipfer was new to me author. I won this book and I am so glad I did. The first is where you meet every one. From then on this book picks up momentom. There is a twist which I did not see. I am thankful for getting this book. Jenny's writing is flowing and the knowledge of plants and nature. Lived it. I can't wait to read Blue Moon and Silver Moon.
Profile Image for Regina Walker.
Author 28 books176 followers
August 7, 2020
In Ruby Moon, Jenny crafted realistic, powerful characters in a robust world. I was sucked in from page one and carried on a journey that I enjoyed immensely. I'm immediately starting to read the next book in her series- Blue Moon. I definitely recommend Ruby Moon!
(I received a free copy of Ruby Moon. This review is my own, and I strive to always be honest in my reviews.)
Profile Image for BooksCoffee.
1,068 reviews
May 25, 2020
In this poignant, tautly-paced three-book series, Knipfer elegantly explores grief, guilt, romance, and faith.

Set on the shores of Lake Superior in Ontario during the mid-1890s, the first book in the series tells the coming-of-age story of Jenay, a young woman of mixed French and Ojibwe descent, who after causing a horrific accident must learn to survive the trauma. The second installment narrates the story of the unwed Vanessa Gulet who is forced to give her newborn son to her married twin sister, Valerie, to raise. But she finds it hard to let go of the child, unaware of the chaos her impulsive decision will bring in her sister’s life. In the final installment releasing in June of this year, Knipfer pens an absorbing tale of life on the home front in Webaashi Bay, Ontario, as Luis, Oshki, and Jimmy set on to join the war as part of the Canadian Expeditionary Forces.

The storyline in the series follows the trajectory of Jenay, Vanessa and their children’s lives from the late 1800s through WWI and its aftermath. The narrative stays intriguing as it flashes back and forth in the past and the present with the flashback chapters from the protagonists’ lives forming the axis of the story. Knipfer seamlessly Interweaves various storylines and stays focused on the richness of the Ojibwe culture, faith, and family ties.

Readers struggling with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) will appreciate the journey of the Gulet twins as a vehicle for emotional healing. The large cast of characters in this multi-generation saga provides depth and richness to the several connected storylines; each character is thoroughly sketched and possesses his or her own fears, insecurities, hopes, desires, and inner voice; Jenay, who started her journey as a teenager surprises with her strength, faith, and the gift of love; all the other characters, especially Luis, Oshki, and Jimmy are compelling, their time in war offers both a grim perspective on life in the trenches and horror of war on a soldier’s psyche.

Christian symbolism woven into the story along with the open, faith-based questions about the very nature of reality will delight readers of faith.

Readers who love being trapped in a character's mind should relish this finely written, gripping series.

A must read for fans of historical fiction.
Profile Image for Erica Nicole Pait.
162 reviews1 follower
September 4, 2020
Ruby Moon is a lovely tale of grief and growth and love and life. Oddly enough, this book that is geared towards adults has a protagonist who is 15/16 for most, if not all, of the book. I loved the characters in this story, and I'm hoping to see more of them in the coming days as I dive into Blue Moon and Silver Moon. I truly enjoyed the story and the premise of the book. I found it fairly unique, which is hard to achieve when you're on your 3000th Christian fiction ;) (I actually have no clue how many I've read... don't quote me on that, haha) There are a number of different perspectives, sometimes we switch back and forth between first and third person, sometimes between past and present tense. And the cover is gorgeous
A few things that really did bug me- there was so much telling instead of showing. A lot of descriptions of people and places were info-dumped instead of coming out naturally through dialogue or actions. I also wish that sometimes we could have just told the story in order rather than jumping back two days in a memory. (The bigger jumps didn't bother me, but when it's just a few days, just tell it straight) The accents were also slightly distracting, and didn't produce the right sounds in my heads like most good book accents do.
Overall, I liked the book a lot and I'm excited to read the next one (Especially since this book ended on what I consider a cliffhanger) but there were still things that made me want to throw the book in frustration.

This is my honest review, but I did receive this book for a tour
1,393 reviews14 followers
January 30, 2020
It does not always happen but when it does it feels miraculous. I'm talking about when you read a book and you are immersed in it. I started to read the first page and when I stopped two hours had passed. I read during dinner. I read after dinner. I woke up and I read. When I got to the last page I closed the book and held it to my heart.

Ruby Moon is the story of Jenay Follet ,a young woman in the 1890s, who is half Native American on her mother's side and feels a strong connection to her mother's people the Ojibwe tribe. This causes tension with her father's sister her Aunt Angelica. This situation is just the beginning of Jenay 's trials and tribulations as she deals with conflicts in business, love and murder.

What make this epic novel stand out is the lyrical, poetic and honest writing from its author. The very first page is almost a sonnet and one of the best beginnings to a book I have every read. As you read it becomes clear this isn't just a clear cut romance or mystery there is very much a spirituality to this story and it fills your soul. Luckily, this book is the first in the Light of the Moon series and I have Blue Moon to read next.

The author, Jenny Knipfer, has her own miraculous story and I encourage you to visit her Instagram account and blog. She is an inspiration besides being a truly talented writer.

I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for E.B. Roshan.
Author 12 books88 followers
August 5, 2020
I found the story of one eventful year in the life of the young half-French, half Ojibwe woman Jenay, to be a vivid and memorable one. At seventeen, Jenay faces troubles many older women would be floored by, and overcomes them with courage and grace.
Her elderly aunt, an Ojibwe woman named Maang-ikwe, besides being an important supportive figure in Jenay's life, is an interesting character in her own right, with her knowledge of herbs and medicinal plants, and her love for God's creation.
At first, I didn't like the way the author jumped from date to date in the distant and more recent past, and switched back and forth between first and third person narration while telling Jenay's story, but in the end I decided that for this story, it works, because so much of the story is about Jenay's struggle to deal with the consequences of an event she doesn't fully remember, and the guilt of being caught in a strange and confusing situation.
While the story has its slower parts, and the writing, in particular the dialogue, at times seems a little stilted, overall, Ruby Moon is a fine tale, and would be enjoyed by anyone who loves Christian historical fiction.

Reviewer's Note: I received a free copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
3 reviews
January 18, 2020
From prologue to epilogue, Jenny Knipfer’s Ruby Moon carries the reader through the enthralling catacombs of Jenay Follet’s mind to solve a murder mystery. This story uniquely cross-examines the past and present of all the major players on the stage, good guys and bad guys alike, which lends to the story’s theme of redemption as well as serving to discover the characters’ motivations and interests.
Faith and forgiveness are large themes in Jenay’s story, and these strengthen her on every shaky step she takes toward unraveling her mystery. Through all her heartbreak, Jenay learns to put more trust in God and the people around her, despite all the physical, mental, and emotional pain she endures. This story is very inspirational in that way and is a good lesson on how to appreciate and focus on the world around you.
The main issues I found with this novel are with the tense and title theme. Sometimes the tense switch between third and first person is a little abrupt. Knipfer uses first person from Jenay’s perspective on occasion, mostly when she is writing in her journal or penning a letter, but in the few places where she is doing neither of those things, first person seems odd, though it does let the reader into Jenay’s head a little more. The title of Ruby Moon also seems to be written a little forcefully into the story toward the end. Perhaps that could have been strung more throughout like the other themes.
Overall, Knipfer’s characterization is stellar in this novel, and she skillfully ties in themes of faith, forgiveness, and trust. The mesh of cultures in this novel are delightful and refreshing, as is the way she carries the readers through the story in non-chronological order using different perspectives and tenses. For the most part, these shifts are easy to follow because she gives section headers that note the date, making it easier for the reader to fit the puzzle pieces together. The non-chronology also makes for a more stimulating read. While I questioned it at first, this style fits so well with the story.
If you are looking for a whodunnit, this is not your book. This is more of a “how did this happen?” type of novel, but it will have you perching on your chair wondering what’s next.
Profile Image for Ksenia.
104 reviews
January 29, 2020
It is indeed a delightful story, well worth reading.

I truly enjoyed reading “Ruby Moon”! It captured me from the very first page.
The author Jenny Knipfer poured her love to God, plants, traditions, and music into this magnificent story.
Facing the feeling of guilt became the central theme of the novel. It is explored explicitly through the main character, Jenay—a young woman who commits unintentional blood-shedding. The story is set in 19th-century Canada. Unfortunately, far too many people like Jenay have experienced the same traumatic events in real life.
Also, the emphasis is placed on the importance of preserving cultural traditions.
The overall vibe of this novel is mesmerizing. It reminded me so much of M. Mitchell’s “Gone with the Wind”, and both had a profound impact on me. Such a delightful work, Mrs. Knipfer!
Profile Image for Ksenia.
104 reviews
January 29, 2020
It is indeed a delightful story, well worth reading.

I truly enjoyed reading “Ruby Moon”! It captured me from the very first page.
The author Jenny Knipfer poured her love to God, plants, traditions, and music into this magnificent story.    
Facing the feeling of guilt became the central theme of the novel. It is explored explicitly through the main character, Jenay—a young woman who commits unintentional blood-shedding. The story is set in 19th-century Canada. Unfortunately, far too many people like Jenay have experienced the same traumatic events in real life. 
Also, the emphasis is placed on the importance of preserving cultural traditions. 
The overall vibe of this novel is mesmerizing. It reminded me so much of M. Mitchell’s “Gone with the Wind”, and both had a profound impact on me. Such a delightful work, Mrs. Knipfer!
Profile Image for Rebekah Palmer.
Author 7 books23 followers
August 25, 2020
I loved the setting of Lake Superior in this historical fiction novel.

It's been a long while since I've related to a main character: Jenay reminded me of myself at age 16 and 17 (albeit due to time period and post modernity I did not have a husband as a teenager).

I liked that her best friend Lucretia was supportive of her in their letter writing and much enjoyed the Ojibwe presence along with the Jesuit missionary.

It was a good reminder to read how the circumstances presented in the novel were written from the 19th century handling of such actions. With the #metoo movement of today more who experience such self-inflicted guilt are finding more resources than historically available for women.
13 reviews
October 23, 2019
I enjoyed the historical plus the Ojibwa/Canadian backgrounds.Kept me wondering what was going to happen with the different characters. I was so into the plots and how they interwove, I could hardly put the book down. Can't wait until I read the next one.
Profile Image for Stella Potts.
516 reviews9 followers
July 27, 2020
This is an enchanting story set on the shores of Lake Superior in Canada in 1893-94 and follows Janay with her life struggle of loss and grief, love and faith. Janay is a mix of Ojibwe Indian and French and as such her life is woven together of both cultures. This is historical fiction at it’s finest as it is well written and well researched and a wonderful storyline. This is the first book of a series with Blue Moon the next in line and Silver Moon is the third book in the series and is a new release. The books will be much better read in order.
Profile Image for Deana Dick.
3,081 reviews134 followers
October 25, 2020
It was easy to be intrigued by this story with an opening of Jenay holding a knife in her hand trying to remember what happened. That sent shivers down my spine. It did take me a bit to catch on that details matter in this book. I learned that I needed to be alert to dates that are at the beginning of each chapter. The author cleverly takes us back and forth in time and slowly unravels who Jenay is. Oh how I cried about the mother she never knew. She sometimes wondered if her mother would be proud of her as she realizes she is a bit different than others around her.

I loved her free spirit and how comfortable she was with her heritage. It was just the right combination to make her unique but very in tune with nature. Her thirst for knowledge is witnessed throughout the story. I loved the faith element and how the author used it to compliment the story with biblical principles. Her father is a blessing with his wisdom of God.

Jenay is learning new things everyday about her heritage and I was very interested in learning about her culture. As she experiences new things she embraces the thought that God has a plan for her life. I loved reading how Jenay became more confident and allowed her heart to open up to new adventures. I was unprepared for the darkness that overcame Jenay after a traumatic event happens. The story takes a turn as we discover what the beginning of the book was about.

The author depicts a young woman who becomes a fixation for someone. This person is angry that her affection is bestowed upon someone else. Even though I thought the character was despicable I liked how the author used him to show us what greed and jealousy can do to someone. There are moments that I wanted Jenay to realize that the enemy was slithering into her life and tempting her to betray someone. Her memories of a certain event will cause an avalanche of guilt as she relives an unthinkable encounter. Through everything she faces, her faith grows as she is surrounded by family and friends. The ending is good but leaves readers with a bit of a cliffhanger. I know I will be reading the next books available in this series so I can see where the author takes us next on our journey.

God measures a person not from outward appearance, like mankind does, but looks at the heart of an individual to truly see what is there.”

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
4 reviews
December 17, 2020
Intriguing

From start to finish this book will keep you intrigued. The prologue alone will spark your interest. The dialogue was a little hard to follow at first, but the story line will keep you reading!
Profile Image for Stephanie Matthews.
Author 2 books45 followers
September 6, 2019
“Ruby Moon” is author Jenny Knipfer’s debut novel, and what a story she has created. Go back in history to the late 1800’s and follow the journey of 16 year-old Jenay as she goes through the trials of life: death, murder, love, and spiritual awakening- you know, typical 16 year-old stuff.
There’s definitely a lot of good to take away from Knipfer’s first book, some of it is personal enjoyment. 1) It’s set in Canada. And written by not a Canadian. That’s an automatic win. 2) Both Homer and Hippocrates were quoted. Can’t go wrong. 3) The Ojibwe pronunciation guide at the front was a bit excessive for the needs of the book, but it was great to see. It just goes to introduce the obvious and clear interest Knipher has for her subject of Ojibwe life and the turn of the last century history.

There is, however, a reason why I couldn’t give a full five-stars, and the biggest reason can be summed up in that Knipher has a writing style of showing not telling. It takes away from the good story she has created, and it has a trickle down effect to a lot of other areas of her writing, such as characters that boarder on cliché. The book also jumps around a lot in the timeline with variously good and negative effects. Much of the tension during the first half of the story is created by rectifying the “future” with the “present” which creates good tension that made me keep wanting to read, but it is all the other jumping back into the past that breaks the flow.

Knipher has put together a story she is clearly very invested in, and that really comes through well on the pages. Her plot is engaging, and when she hits her stride, her descriptions are strong and paint wonderful pictures. 4-stars and a thumbs up to keep writing!
203 reviews3 followers
November 30, 2020
Ruby Moon began with quite a mystery. Scenes went back and forward in the life of young Jenay with the reader trying to piece together the pieces of the puzzle. Along the way, the reader gets to know Jenay and the depth of who she is. As she is trying to make her way as a young lady, different aspects of her unique heritage make her ponder the next part of her journey.

I must admit at first I felt like the scenes going back and forward in time left me in confusion to begin with. As I got further into the lives of the characters and the story line, it became easier to go back and forth. If you are hesitant, don’t let that get in the way. Push through so you can enjoy the full story line. The unique way the author weaved the story adds to the mystery to create an imaginative story.

I liked how the characters were written as well as the real struggle between Jenay’s feelings and thoughts. I enjoyed how God was written throughout the story with redemption for a character that I didn’t expect. I also liked learning more about the French/Canadian and Ojibway People as I was reading. It is one reason I enjoy reading historical fiction because it expands my horizons.

I would recommend reading this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
Profile Image for MaryAnn Bell.
321 reviews
October 31, 2020
Ruby Moon embodies a tale of grief, guilt, and redemption…

On the shores of Lake Superior in Ontario during the mid 1890’s, Jenay, a young woman of mixed French and Ojibwe descent, must survive the trauma of causing a horrific accident.

Amidst this drama, Jenay is caught in a web spun by Renault, a rich, charming man who once threatened ruination of her father’s shipping company but now seeks something even more valuable…

Jenay must find where her strength lies in order to face the challenges life brings her or be washed away like driftwood on the tumultuous shores of Lake Superior. Life’s richest dramas are played out under the banner of two ruby colored moons and become the hidden gems which forge her into a mature strong woman. Jenay realizes God is by her side, using even the harsh events of life to create something precious in her.

Fans of historical fiction, Christian historical fiction, split-timelines, and mystery will enjoy this stimulating read!

My Thoughts: This was such an entertaining novel. The author captures the readers' attention from the very first word. This is the story of a young woman who is forced to grow up quickly. A wonderful story with history, especially about the Ojibwe It is a book with lots of facts about medicinal plants. This book kept my attention until the very end. The reader will find characters they love, and others they have a dislike for; in the end, it makes for a good storyline. I did appreciate that the author wrote as the people would speak, it made it more natural and gave the reader an idea of the language that was used by the Ojibwe. This was a joy to read and I look forward to more in this series.
Profile Image for Connie Hill.
1,881 reviews47 followers
October 30, 2020
Ruby Moon by Jenny Knipfer is Book 1 in the By the Light of the Moon series. This book is set in 1894. However, it flashes back to a year before. In this book we meet Jenay, She is French and Ojibwe descent. She walks through a traumatic experience. We see in the opening of the book her reaction to this experience. Then the author winds back time and we start to peel back all that has happened. I have not read a book like this before. At first I was a little bit confused, then I caught on and kept clicking my kindle to to see what happened next. We also meet Renault. Renault tried to ruin Jenay's fathers shipping business in the past. However, now Renault has his eyes set on Jenay. Can they look past the past?

Jenay sets her faith in God. She has overcome so many challenges. She is such a strong character. Her mother died while having her - and she spent a lot of time in the care Aunt Maang-ikwe. She would prefer to be outside - learning about the healing power of plants and other things that are sacred to the Ojibwe tribe. I went and looked up the Ojibwe tribe. The author's research is impeccable. I learned a lot.

One of the things I loved about this book was the Bible verses in each chapter. They tie into the chapter so well. The story is a unique one. I have never read something like this before. I look forward to reading more from this author.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program. All thoughts are my own.
1,288 reviews
October 27, 2020
Ruby Moon, by Jenny Knipfer, is book one in the Light of the Moon series. The story takes place in 1893 to 1894 in Webaashi Bay, Canada, along the shore of Lake Superior. This is the story of a very strong 16 year, Jenay, who lost her mother as a very young child and was raised by her father and aunts. After losing her father at 16, she has to learn his business and learn about his uncertain business dealing. She also marries at a very young age. The story bounces back and forth between the two years as Jenay struggles to overcome the nightmares and regain her memory after a tragic accident.
This is a well written story that has many good messages within it. The story shows of the blending of the French and Ojibwe culture and how Jenay was able to learn great lessons from both. One of the themes that stands out to me in this story is when her Ojibwe aunt tells her that a hard things in life have a way of deepening her routes to help her become stronger to go through storms in life. I enjoyed the teaching of the use of herbs from the Obijwe culture and the warning that they must be used carefully and not to harm others. This is a multi time line story. The chapters are marked with the date so it is easy to keep the times separated.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,783 reviews47 followers
November 2, 2020
Historical Fiction and Romance are genres that I really enjoy reading. I have
to say this particular book took me a bit to really get into it, as it didn't seem like
it had much Historical storyline to it. A few chapters in, I started getting more
into the book as the Storyline was reflecting more of the Historical Fiction aspect.

Jenay, is a young, half-French, half Ojibwe woman woman who is dealing with
the aftermath and pain of causing an accident that was very traumatic. Jenay
is trying to deal with life at hand and then things get interesting. Renault, a man
who once tried to destroy her Father's Shipping company, enters her life once
again. Renaulthas one thing in mind and that is to win the heart of Jenay. Will
Jenay learn to deal with trauma that is on her heart? Does Jenay trust Renault
after his past with her family? Will there be a romantic connection between her
and Renault?

Ruby Moon is Book in the By the Light of the Moon series. I must admit, once I
started understanding the storyline, I couldn't put the book down. The story flowed
nicely and was a very interesting and unique book. TheChristian aspect and Bible
verses throughout help tell the story and strength of the characters. I really enjoyed
Ruby Moon and I am looking forward to reading more of this series. GREAT BOOK!
Profile Image for Erin.
2,108 reviews17 followers
October 27, 2020
Setting. Lake Ontario in the 1890s. Okay, I’m hooked. I really want to visit the Great Lakes and I love historical fiction so of course, this was going to be one book that I couldn’t put down. This is also book one in a series so you’re going to want to look for the others books as well and read the whole series.

Where is her strength? Where is her God? Jenay causes a horrific accident. Her enemies become her friends and her whole world is upside down. How does she know what to do? Who can she trust?

This is a great book and you feel so much for Jenay as you go through the struggles with her. The language was a bit too modern for the book but that happens a lot. This book does have some scenes that aren’t quite what I’d want my daughter reading but nothing that would make it a bad book. I will personally be reading the rest of the series.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Profile Image for Brenda Webb.
Author 2 books9 followers
March 4, 2020
Ruby Moon is the first book in the By The Light of the Moon series, by talented author Jenny Knipfer.

The novel is set during the 1890s on the shores of Lake Superior. The protagonist, Jenay, is a young girl of French and Ojibwe descent, on the brink of adulthood. She causes an accident that has life-changing implications and will haunt her for the rest of her life. The story explores family, hurt, forgiveness, and first love.

The writing is poetic and lyrical and it was easy to get lost in the beautiful words. Biblical references add a deep, spiritual element to the story.

Ruby Moon is fast-paced and well-written. The plot is multi-dimensional and you will find yourself holding your breath, waiting to see what happens next.

I'm looking forward to reading the next books in the series.

Jenny Knipfer is an inspiration to other authors and I encourage you to visit her website and blog to read about her own struggles and triumphs. A truly remarkable woman!
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