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Child of Prophecy #1
Child of the Moon
At her birth, Neoma was dubbed the Child of Prophecy by the Order of the Moon. A title with great and terrible ties to it. One that should grant her magic enough to take on the vengeful God Aurinko and His army. One the people of Manena put all their hopes into.
When her lack of magical aptitude becomes abundantly clear, Neoma resents being in the mage classes. As her 18th birthday approaches, she learns the Sisters will force her to go through the Anointing Ceremony in order to join the Sisterhood in the Order of the Moon. Will the Moon Mother forsake her in front of her fellow graduates? Or will Her blessing cause a series of events that might just break Neoma?
One thing is for certain: war is on the horizon and the Child of Prophecy is far from ready to face the might of Aurinko.
When her lack of magical aptitude becomes abundantly clear, Neoma resents being in the mage classes. As her 18th birthday approaches, she learns the Sisters will force her to go through the Anointing Ceremony in order to join the Sisterhood in the Order of the Moon. Will the Moon Mother forsake her in front of her fellow graduates? Or will Her blessing cause a series of events that might just break Neoma?
One thing is for certain: war is on the horizon and the Child of Prophecy is far from ready to face the might of Aurinko.
- GenresFantasy
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2022
3 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
April 2, 2023
The second book isn’t out yet. That is distressing to me. I must see what happens next!
What a beautifully crafted world this is! Everything has thought behind it and it weaves into all the stuff our characters encounter!
The author wonderfully incorporates the characters’ beliefs into all aspects of the society. But it never feels overwhelming! In fact, I want to know more!
But the characters are the selling point. We want to walk through this world because we care about what happens to them. We want them to get what they want and we roll our eyes and curse along with them.
I eagerly await book 2. I feel like I’ve made some friends in this book and I prefer not to keep them waiting.
What a beautifully crafted world this is! Everything has thought behind it and it weaves into all the stuff our characters encounter!
The author wonderfully incorporates the characters’ beliefs into all aspects of the society. But it never feels overwhelming! In fact, I want to know more!
But the characters are the selling point. We want to walk through this world because we care about what happens to them. We want them to get what they want and we roll our eyes and curse along with them.
I eagerly await book 2. I feel like I’ve made some friends in this book and I prefer not to keep them waiting.
August 17, 2022
The Child of the Moon leans heavily into the Chosen One trope and basks in it. There are secrets kept from Neoma that hurts her heart, especially around the wish to have a relationship with who she expected to be her Soulstar. She struggles with panic attacks, but often he is right there to help her. While slower paced then I prefer, The Child of the Moon stays true to the feel of YA and those who like a slower paced story will find it enjoyable.
April 26, 2022
Characters
The main character is Neoma — the story is told in the first person through her point of view. Her mother is dead, her father has abandoned her, and everyone believes she is the Child of Prophesy destined to save the world. However, she hasn't awoken to her magic and there are no indications that she still might as her eighteen's birthday rapidly approaches.
I found her a likeable and interesting character. Her abandonment issues, insecurities and panic attacks were portrayed in what seemed a realistic and respectful way. She is her own person and has her strengths that not many people know about, but she's also vulnerable and somewhat dramatic.
Other important characters are Vivia — Neoma's sassy best friend and a powerful mage, Luka — Neoma's friend and love interest and Hemi — a new boy who becomes Neoma's insta-friend. I do believe friendships need time to develop, however, there is a believable enough explanation for the relationship between Neoma and Hemi to start the way it does, and I think it might be a subversion of the insta-love and the love triangle tropes (he seemed to be a good candidate to become Neoma's another love interest), so it was unexpected and enjoyable.
We don't get to know these characters too well, but they feel like real people with distinct personalities nevertheless.
Plot
The plot is straightforward yet gripping. There are a few plot twists and unexpected events, some action and drama. There is also lots of angst between Luka and Neoma. They love each other, but for reasons unknown to Neoma they can't be together — Luka knows something and does everything to distance himself from her, even though he's clearly attracted to her. He's also very protective of her, and she melts every time he's close (which is a lot).
World-building
There is a solid magic system, hierarchy of gods, belief system and political structure. Not everything is explained in the story itself, but there is enough for the world and events to make sense, and there is a glossary at the end that can answer more questions if someone wants to gain a deeper understanding of how everything works. This is a well-structured world that works according to its internal logic.
Impressions
I had lots of fun reading Child Of The Moon! It had a smooth flow that made reading effortless, the characters were likeable and the events kept me invested and intrigued. It was a fast, easy and pleasant read. I was always drawn to the book when I had a moment and curious what would happen next. I'll definitely read the next books in the series, as they promise more exciting adventures.
You might enjoy the book if you like YA fantasy adventures with some classical tropes and are looking for an easy, entertaining read.
This review was first published on my website where you'll find more book reviews, interviews, lists, short stories and more.
The main character is Neoma — the story is told in the first person through her point of view. Her mother is dead, her father has abandoned her, and everyone believes she is the Child of Prophesy destined to save the world. However, she hasn't awoken to her magic and there are no indications that she still might as her eighteen's birthday rapidly approaches.
I found her a likeable and interesting character. Her abandonment issues, insecurities and panic attacks were portrayed in what seemed a realistic and respectful way. She is her own person and has her strengths that not many people know about, but she's also vulnerable and somewhat dramatic.
Other important characters are Vivia — Neoma's sassy best friend and a powerful mage, Luka — Neoma's friend and love interest and Hemi — a new boy who becomes Neoma's insta-friend. I do believe friendships need time to develop, however, there is a believable enough explanation for the relationship between Neoma and Hemi to start the way it does, and I think it might be a subversion of the insta-love and the love triangle tropes (he seemed to be a good candidate to become Neoma's another love interest), so it was unexpected and enjoyable.
We don't get to know these characters too well, but they feel like real people with distinct personalities nevertheless.
Plot
The plot is straightforward yet gripping. There are a few plot twists and unexpected events, some action and drama. There is also lots of angst between Luka and Neoma. They love each other, but for reasons unknown to Neoma they can't be together — Luka knows something and does everything to distance himself from her, even though he's clearly attracted to her. He's also very protective of her, and she melts every time he's close (which is a lot).
World-building
There is a solid magic system, hierarchy of gods, belief system and political structure. Not everything is explained in the story itself, but there is enough for the world and events to make sense, and there is a glossary at the end that can answer more questions if someone wants to gain a deeper understanding of how everything works. This is a well-structured world that works according to its internal logic.
Impressions
I had lots of fun reading Child Of The Moon! It had a smooth flow that made reading effortless, the characters were likeable and the events kept me invested and intrigued. It was a fast, easy and pleasant read. I was always drawn to the book when I had a moment and curious what would happen next. I'll definitely read the next books in the series, as they promise more exciting adventures.
You might enjoy the book if you like YA fantasy adventures with some classical tropes and are looking for an easy, entertaining read.
This review was first published on my website where you'll find more book reviews, interviews, lists, short stories and more.
July 11, 2022
Child of the Moon introduces us to Neoma, the 'Child of Prophecy', who wonders how she's supposed to save her people with the magic she doesn't have. This first installment of her story mixes coming-of-age themes with training montages, shadowy assassins and a great big dollop of slow-burn romance with extra yearning.
Neoma, Luca and their friends are all well-fleshed out, likable characters and I can't wait to see what will happen to them as they continue on their journey.
Neoma, Luca and their friends are all well-fleshed out, likable characters and I can't wait to see what will happen to them as they continue on their journey.
August 1, 2024
This book captured my attention from the beginning and held it throughout. The language and setting reminded me of the classics in fantasy and I was invested in Neoma from the beginning. The interspersed passages from the Book of the Moon added to the depth of the world building. This book is an absolute treat for fantasy readers. A twist on the chosen one trope, an adventure story and romance all wrapped in one. A must read if you love fantasy. The cast of characters are truly memorable, and I am eager to read the next book of the series.
I re read this book and revising my review.
Neoma was declared the Child of Prophecy-a mythical saviour who is supposed to save the world from the mad Sun God Aurinko. Mother Tyra, who called her that is the head of the Order of Sisters of the Moon, women with magic who are chosen by the Moon Mother herself. Though she shows no signs of magic, Neoma is forced to join the mage school and educated among girls with magic because of her destiny as the Child of Prophecy. Her mother had passed away at her birth and her father turned to drink and started neglecting his daughter. Neoma is raised by a neighbour, Tobias, whose son Luca becomes her best friend.
When Luca goes away to join the Brothers, the order of men who are chosen by the Moon mother and whose magic is of a different kind, Neoma is heartbroken, but her other best friend Vivia tries to make up for it. The day of their anointment--the ceremony where the Moon mother marks the forehead of her chosen with a waxing crescent moon--is coming near, and Neoma is showing no signs of any awakening magic. The news of the armies of Aurinko annexing kingdoms and continents have made the people fearful, but Neoma isn't sure she can do anything against them.
With the fate of the world and the expectations resting on her young shoulders, Neoma has to decide if she should go ahead with the ceremony or run off.
I loved Neoma. She is spirited and despite her trauma and anxiety, she manages to keep a healthy amount of optimism. Luca and Vivia are also well realised characters. The writing reminded me of the best parts of classical fantasy and the world building and descriptions are top notch. Though I've already read it once, I thoroughly enjoyed this re-read.
If you love epic and high fantasy, you will love this book.
I re read this book and revising my review.
Neoma was declared the Child of Prophecy-a mythical saviour who is supposed to save the world from the mad Sun God Aurinko. Mother Tyra, who called her that is the head of the Order of Sisters of the Moon, women with magic who are chosen by the Moon Mother herself. Though she shows no signs of magic, Neoma is forced to join the mage school and educated among girls with magic because of her destiny as the Child of Prophecy. Her mother had passed away at her birth and her father turned to drink and started neglecting his daughter. Neoma is raised by a neighbour, Tobias, whose son Luca becomes her best friend.
When Luca goes away to join the Brothers, the order of men who are chosen by the Moon mother and whose magic is of a different kind, Neoma is heartbroken, but her other best friend Vivia tries to make up for it. The day of their anointment--the ceremony where the Moon mother marks the forehead of her chosen with a waxing crescent moon--is coming near, and Neoma is showing no signs of any awakening magic. The news of the armies of Aurinko annexing kingdoms and continents have made the people fearful, but Neoma isn't sure she can do anything against them.
With the fate of the world and the expectations resting on her young shoulders, Neoma has to decide if she should go ahead with the ceremony or run off.
I loved Neoma. She is spirited and despite her trauma and anxiety, she manages to keep a healthy amount of optimism. Luca and Vivia are also well realised characters. The writing reminded me of the best parts of classical fantasy and the world building and descriptions are top notch. Though I've already read it once, I thoroughly enjoyed this re-read.
If you love epic and high fantasy, you will love this book.
August 9, 2025
There might be SPOILERS AHEAD, so read at your own risk.
Absolutely fascinating world-building! All the little tidbits of lore sprinkled throughout the book breathes life into the world, much like Manen in the tales of creation between each part. I adore the language and creative idioms.
The characters are alive and believable. I like Neoma as a protagonist, the prophecy that surrounds her and her feelings about everything. As this is told from her perspective exclusively (in 1st person) we get a unique insight into her mind and thought, and also her fears. To that point, this book has one of the best descriptions of a panic attack I've ever read, told from the one having it. It was so believable.
I have a habit of latching onto and fall in love with side characters, and I adore Hemi. He stole my heart with his jokes, his winning smile and his staff-wielding. I'm also slightly in love with the flirty and confident best friend Vivia. Everyone should have a Vivia in their lives.
The plot is stewing casually in the background, only emerging now and then to reminds us that it's still a thing. It's very interesting and I want to know more! The information we're given hints at something larger at play.
The only downside I can think of is that the story is sometimes a little too fast paced for my liking, but nothing is lost on the way. It's just a preference.
Another thing is that the plot about missing children sometimes go unnoticed for several chapters while the focus is on Neomas training and her feelings for Luca. While these aren't bad things (I loved reading about them) I would have liked a reminder or two, because I have the attention span of a dust bunny. But it all comes back full swing in the end and sets up the next book nicely, and I've very excited to read it when it comes out!
Also, I just want to say: I read it on Kindle, and bless whoever made Dark Mode available, because I couldn't read more than a few chapters before my eyes and head started to complain. I had to put it aside for a day or two. But thanks to Dark More, I devoured the book in a couple of days!
Absolutely fascinating world-building! All the little tidbits of lore sprinkled throughout the book breathes life into the world, much like Manen in the tales of creation between each part. I adore the language and creative idioms.
The characters are alive and believable. I like Neoma as a protagonist, the prophecy that surrounds her and her feelings about everything. As this is told from her perspective exclusively (in 1st person) we get a unique insight into her mind and thought, and also her fears. To that point, this book has one of the best descriptions of a panic attack I've ever read, told from the one having it. It was so believable.
I have a habit of latching onto and fall in love with side characters, and I adore Hemi. He stole my heart with his jokes, his winning smile and his staff-wielding. I'm also slightly in love with the flirty and confident best friend Vivia. Everyone should have a Vivia in their lives.
The plot is stewing casually in the background, only emerging now and then to reminds us that it's still a thing. It's very interesting and I want to know more! The information we're given hints at something larger at play.
The only downside I can think of is that the story is sometimes a little too fast paced for my liking, but nothing is lost on the way. It's just a preference.
Another thing is that the plot about missing children sometimes go unnoticed for several chapters while the focus is on Neomas training and her feelings for Luca. While these aren't bad things (I loved reading about them) I would have liked a reminder or two, because I have the attention span of a dust bunny. But it all comes back full swing in the end and sets up the next book nicely, and I've very excited to read it when it comes out!
Also, I just want to say: I read it on Kindle, and bless whoever made Dark Mode available, because I couldn't read more than a few chapters before my eyes and head started to complain. I had to put it aside for a day or two. But thanks to Dark More, I devoured the book in a couple of days!
April 25, 2023
This book was a pleasant surprise. It follows the life of Neoma, and her struggles with being declared the Child of Prophecy. It's definitely a slower paced fantasy, but I found it thoroughly engaging.
That's not to say it was without issues. The writing could be kind of clunky, and there were some pretty bad mistakes that snuck past editing. I think my biggest complaint is that the character all "sound" the same. Same word choices, same syntax, same sentence structures.
Wait, no. I lie. My biggest complaint is that Neoma cries. All. The. Time. It's understandable, but it does get kind of tedious, especially in the last half of the novel. I read somewhere (or heard it at a conference?) that the best way to make readers cry is by having the character not. Put them through shit, but have them keep the tears bottled up. Let them try to be strong, and the readers will cry for them. As a reader, I've found this to be true. I get a lot more weepy for characters who can't cry for themselves.
So! Was it a perfectly written master piece? Nah, definitely not. But was it worth reading? Absolutely. And, most importantly, I'm looking forward to book 2.
That's not to say it was without issues. The writing could be kind of clunky, and there were some pretty bad mistakes that snuck past editing. I think my biggest complaint is that the character all "sound" the same. Same word choices, same syntax, same sentence structures.
Wait, no. I lie. My biggest complaint is that Neoma cries. All. The. Time. It's understandable, but it does get kind of tedious, especially in the last half of the novel. I read somewhere (or heard it at a conference?) that the best way to make readers cry is by having the character not. Put them through shit, but have them keep the tears bottled up. Let them try to be strong, and the readers will cry for them. As a reader, I've found this to be true. I get a lot more weepy for characters who can't cry for themselves.
So! Was it a perfectly written master piece? Nah, definitely not. But was it worth reading? Absolutely. And, most importantly, I'm looking forward to book 2.
November 19, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. The world building is immersive, the pacing is just fast enough to keep it moving without getting bogged down but it manages to do so without forfeiting necessary information. The characters were well constructed and memorable - the MC, Neoma, is a likeable, sympathetic character facing difficult circumstances. There is a lot of care and nuance to the world and it feels like this would translate really well to the screen. If you like fantasy and seeing the 'chosen one' trope done in a clever way, you'll like this!
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June 23, 2023What really stood out to me about Child of the Moon was the world-building, the magic, and the creation myth. I thought that was really well-done. I wished I connected to the characters better, but I did really enjoy the prominence and importance given to platonic relationships, even though there's a fair amount of romance I did not connect to well. I really liked gods, and there's a some thought-provoking twist to the chosen one trope. Full review here: https://enthralledbylove.com/2023/06/...
September 7, 2022
I really enjoyed this book and was especially hooked after the MC birthday.
It has lots of things I enjoy, I loved the strange places and complex characters.
This book doesn't end with everything tied up in a neat little bow (not a cliff-hanger but I was left wanting more) you will need to wait for the next book to find out what happens and what is in store for the group as they set of on their journey.
I look forwards to reading it.
It has lots of things I enjoy, I loved the strange places and complex characters.
This book doesn't end with everything tied up in a neat little bow (not a cliff-hanger but I was left wanting more) you will need to wait for the next book to find out what happens and what is in store for the group as they set of on their journey.
I look forwards to reading it.
July 13, 2024
I really enjoyed CHILD OF THE MOON! Neoma was named the “child of prophecy” at birth due to her unusual eyes. Now nearly 18, she is the only girl in her village who can’t perform magic and feels like the ugly duckling next to her only friend, who is the star pupil. I found the world building in this moon and stars inspired YA Fantasy-dystopian world to be really nicely done, with sharply defined roles for girls and boys that Neoma challenges as her friend Luca trains her in secret to be a fighter. I loved the impending threat of war and am definitely interested to see what happens in book two! 5/5 stars.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews