Wayward Reviews

Delve into the realms of Chinese mythology, following a young woman’s perilous journey to save her mother and challenge the powerful Celestial Emperor, with a dash of romance and emotional depth it’s definitely a action packed story.

Book Synopsis

Book Details

Pages: 512

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

Publisher: Harper Voyager

Format: Hardback

A young woman’s quest to free her mother pits her against the most powerful immortal in the realm, setting her on a dangerous path where those she loves are not the only ones at risk…

Growing up on the moon, Xingyin is accustomed to solitude, unaware that she is being hidden from the powerful Celestial Emperor who exiled her mother for stealing his elixir of immortality. But when her magic flares and her existence is discovered, Xingyin is forced to flee her home, leaving her mother behind.

Alone, powerless, and afraid, she makes her way to the Celestial Kingdom, a land of wonder and secrets. Disguising her identity, she seizes an opportunity to train in the Crown Prince’s service, learning to master archery and magic, despite the passion which flames between her and the emperor’s son.

To save her mother, Xingyin embarks on a perilous quest, confronting legendary creatures and vicious enemies, across the earth and skies.

But when treachery looms and forbidden magic threatens the kingdom, she must challenge the ruthless Celestial Emperor for her dream —striking a dangerous bargain, where she is torn between losing all she loves or plunging the realm into chaos.

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Review

* Non-Spoiler Review*

My dive into Chinese Mythology retellings and I am here for it! The Daughter of the Moon Goddess has everything I like in a fantasy novel, interesting conflict, love triangles, immersive world building and refreshing magic.

I was hoping to finish this book in January but time got away from me, I found that the main character Xingyin has a good balance of character flaws and growth that made me root for her. The love triangle was a classic trope that I am not made at, but I couldn’t get over the detail which Tan went to in her world building – I absolutely adored it.

Overall, I think this is a wonderful book to dip your toes into when it come to Chinese Mythology retellings. I have already put the second book on my want to read list – highly recommend.

Spice Rating: 2/6 – See my rating system here

Book Rating: 4/5