BOOK REVIEW: Daughter of the Moon Goddess by @suelynntan

4.5 Stars

After hearing Sue Lynn Tan talk about her book at VoyagerCon, I was desperate to read it!
The story is a fantasy inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess "Chang’e" and focuses on her daughter Xingyin who secretly travels from the moon to the Celestial world to work undercover in the hopes of freeing her mother from the enchantment keeping her on the moon. It is a JAM PACKED story filled with adventure, friendship, romance, betrayal, action and so many twists and turns you won't know what hit you! Especially as the story is SO fast paced and in my opinion holds enough content for two books! The worldbuilding is also incredible with SO much culture, politics and history.

Our lead female Xingyin is an absolute star! She is such a complicated character as she is so brave yet vulnerable and smart yet naive. I loved her personal journey and the amount she learns about the world, fighting, people/relationships and herself is staggering! I adored her determined nature and how much she would do for those she loves.
The two lead males and love interests are the crown prince Liwei and the warrior Wenzhi. They are both such interesting characters in themselves and I loved their interactions and individual relationships with Xingyin.

The fantasy parts of the story were simply incredible and included elemental magic, dragons and magical items. I don't know where some of the unique ideas came from, for instance using clouds as transport was genius!

The writing was absolutely beautiful! So lyrical and an absolute joy to read.
The only reason this review isn't a 5 star is because I felt the book almost held too much and thought that this duology should probably be a trilogy. I also felt there was some internal reflection from Xingyin that could have been reduced as it became a little repetitive.

Overall, an imaginative, beautiful, magical and action packed debut. I could not recommend it more - preorder this book now!

Please note that I was #gifted this ebook in exchange for an honest review.

Quality Rating: Three Stars
Enjoyment Rating: Three Stars

Ultimately, Daughter of the Moon Goddess wasn't for me, and the cutesy romance was not enough to keep me around. I made it 19% of the way through and had been considering giving up from very early on. I wanted to give it a chance and see how the early story developed, but more and more I realised most of my problems were with the writing style and general storytelling decisions which weren't going to change. I don't think it's a bad book, but its style is not something I want to invest more time into.

This book reads like middle grade, probably aspiring to jump into teen themes a little later in the series. There's so much inner monologuing (with a protagonist who collects information pretty slowly) and little actual drama in the outside world. Xingjin really didn't seem that bothered by anything happening to her, including what you'd imagine are some pretty traumatic experiences.

I'm also slightly sad that the worldbuilding is a little sparse. We get some little tidbits of what I believe to be Chinese myth (apologies if I'm a little off), but considering this is literally set on the moon there's very little description or aesthetic inclination to help us build what I imagine must be a fantastical empire on a celestial body - a really cool and unique thing to this story.

The reason I gave up where I did was the lack of direction in the actual story. Xingyin is supposed to get somewhere to escape the events at the beginning of the book, but she isn't very rushed to do so. I sort of forget she had that goal. Every obstacle she faces on the way to that goal is also very easily tied up without much input from the protagonist herself.

As I say, I don't think Daughter of the Moon Goddess isn't worth reading, it just isn't for me. I was expecting something aimed at a higher age range, whereas this reads very middle grade to me - nothing wrong with that, it just wasn't what I was expecting and lends itself to a few of my pet peeves that just makes reading it not as enjoyable an experience.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5 stars
Daughter of the Moon Goddess is the debut novel of Sue Lynn Tan. It is a take on the Chinese Mythology story about Chang’er, the Chinese moon goddess.

This book has been on my most anticipated releases for 2022 from the moment I learned of its existence, and it did not disappoint!

This book is one wild ride and I loved every second of it! The book starts off with Xingyin hiding on the moon together with her mother, but that soon changes when she accidentally uses her powers. From there on, the story takes you on a journey together with Xingyin in a quest to free her mother from the moon.

The plot is very fast-paced, but it fits perfectly with everything that happens. If the plot would’ve been slower, it wouldn’t have reached me and grabbed me as it did now. There is a sense of urgence because of the fast-paced plot and it fits perfectly with Xingyin’s mission of wanting to free her mother.

The attention to details everywhere gives you a cinematic feeling. I’m familiar with c-dramas, so I could perfectly picture the setting, clothing and everything around it. But even if you aren’t familiar, the details given, the world-building, everything makes it very easy to do so. The little bits of information given here and there aren’t disrupting the flow of the story, but adding to it.

Together with the attention to details, the writing is very poetically done. It was beautifully written, in a way that just flows off the pages. It reminded me a bit of music, the way it was written, with build-ups and it slowing down. Even when reading battle scenes, it didn’t take away from the writing style or the battles being harder to understand. It just worked the whole time and it gave me a very satisfying feeling while reading this story.

Xingyin is truly a wonderful character to follow. She is a bit timid and unknowing about the world at the beginning, which is completely understandable. Seeing her grow up and becoming the woman she is at the end was very satisfying to read. I loved how she grew into herself, her power, grew in the relationships she has, in everything. She is strong and relatable. Prince Liwei and captain Wenzhi are both awesome strong male characters that really make you feel a lot of things and both in other ways. While they didn’t really develop as much as Xingyin, they were more rounded as characters already from the very start.

The relationships in this book are just as beautifully written as everything else. The main focus of this book is the journey Xingyin goes on, so I was very happy that the romance didn’t overpower that point or was too much. The mother-daughter relationship between Xingyin and Chang’er was the whole drive of this book, and I loved it. Xingyin would do anything for her mother, and that love was beautiful to see. The many friendships she has were really sweet to read. While I’m usually not a fan of love triangles, the way it was written in this book, with her two love interest, it wasn’t as annoying as I would’ve thought. I did have a favourite I was rooting for, but the way it was written it really made me doubt my own preferences at some points, which is really amazing looking back at it.

Overall, it was a captivating debut book with a beautiful journey and I can’t wait to see what more is going to happen in this world!

Thank you Netgalley and HarperVoyager for the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.
This book was really amazing to read and I just couldn't put it down once I started reading it, though part I of the book was a little bit slower than the rest of the book.
I loved all the characters so much but Xingyin was definitely my favorite one. I couldn't believe how much her character developed throughout the book. I loved how she became such a strong female main character.
The relationships were really cute and they so real to me. Even though I don't usually like the love triangle trope this one was so well done that I didn't even mind that much.
The plot was really interesting and I didn't predict most plot twists, some of them even blew me away.
Although the magic system was really interesting to read, it sometimes laked on descriptions of how this magic actually worked.
Overall I definitely enjoyed reading this book, I absolutely loved the Chinese Mythology in the book.

I was super excited to be able to sink into this lyrical mythological retelling of the tale of Chang'e, the Chinese goddess of the Moon, especially after @sammys.shelves raved about it after her read, and it didn't disappoint! Thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins and Sue Lynn Tan for the opportunity to read in advance.

Bits I liked:
- beautifully written with evocative imagery, without becoming superficial
- strong, relatable characters across the board
- twisty plot that kept the pace up and caught me out a few times!
- feels like a full standalone story with a few open strands for thought (though is the first in a duology, exciting!)
- balance of magic & action with the more emotional or philosophical side, without getting preachy
- romance without needing any gratuitous spice (I appreciate many enjoy it, it's just not for me!), and without it being the only focus for the MC

Bits I liked less:
- love interests felt a bit "super handsome man falls for surprisingly not-conventionally-beautiful girl, shock-horror" trope, though I did like how the characters developed
- those few unanswered questions felt unfinished before I realised there was a second book, but I'm unsure what more the story has to offer (though now I'm thinking of it, there's quite a few subtle nuggets left, so perhaps I'll be pleasantly surprised!)
- MC felt like she flip-flopped a lot on her feelings and spent a long time going over it, which got a bit grating, but I'm not really into the emotional romance genre so that's just personal preference (more dragons please!)

It actually took me ages to write that as I struggled to think of anything that was less than enjoyable. The Chinese fantasy/xianxia/xuanhuan/wuxia genres really interest me, so this has been a really enjoyable read, and I hope to discover more. 5 stars from me!

The best book I have read all year. I can’t even describe how good this book was, the writing is beautiful, I could picture the amazing settings, the gorgeous palaces, the clothes, the food, everything. From page one I was addicted to this magical book and I’ve never rooted for characters so much before.
This has become one of my all time favourite books, I could literally sit and re read it right now. My heart now forever belongs to Liwei

Debut fantasy inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess - imprisoned on the moon by the Celestial Emperor. Her (secret) daughter, Xingyin, flees the moon to avoid discovery but is determined to find a way to free her mother. So begins her journey from penniless servant to prince's companion to warrior.

There's a lot to fit into this one book and I wish it had been divided up into more than a duology because the imagery is lush and beautiful but we don't get enough time in some of the places or with some of the supporting characters.

However, the central characters and relationships are well done. Xingyin develops well as a main character, becoming more confident in herself, pursing her goals whilst growing into an adult and dealing with complications life & love throw at her.

If you like romance in your fantasy then this is for you: friends to lovers, and friends to lovers to enemies.

A strong debut with a compelling story, likeable characters and good world building.

I absolutely loved this book! I don’t do spoilers but I would 10/10 recommend this book to anyone that will listen! Can’t wait for it to come out as I will be adding this book to my physical shelf!

Thank you so much to Sue Lynn Tan, NetGalley and HarperCollins for this wonderful ARC.

It's important to note that I am not at all familiar with Chinese Mythology. It's also important that you know that this book has single-handedly made me want to read more into the topic and explore more stories similar to the tale of the Chinese Moon Goddess.

Xingyin has known nothing but life on the moon with her mother, Chang'E. A moment of curiosity on Xingyin's part leaves the two of them vulnerable. The Celestial Empress pays them a visit and Xingyin soon discovers that her mother has been harboring a larger secret; her. Disovering that her existence is secret, Xingyin must flee the moon and evade capture. She finds herself in the Celestial Kingdom and soon finds how far she will go to protect herself and more importantly, her mother.

Special thanks to Sue Lynn Tan for not only reading my gushing praise in a DM but also replying to it! I cannot wait to see what else is in store for Xingyin.

What I loved:
- Everything. FINE, I'll elaborate.
- Xingyin's bond with her mother is BEAUTIFUL. Her motivation to do everything that she does is driven largely by the love for her mother and we, as the reader, want what she wants just as much as she does.
- The world building is so on point. SLT as clearly spent a lot of time on the details and it shows. I was completely enamoured with the description of the Celestial Kingdom and the other areas we visit in the book.
- Adding on to world building, we also encounter some magical creatures and have some pretty incredible battles - so vivid and brilliantly written!
- Prince Liwei and Captain Wenzhi - I loved them both but I know a number of you would prefer one or other other depending on your book boyfriend 'type' - I implore you to read and tell me who you prefer!!
- The tugs on my heartstrings. I gasped, I cried, I giggled - not necessarily in that order.

What I disliked:
- That book 2 in this duology isn't already out.

Read if you like:
- Mythological retellings
- Strong female MC's who knows how to use a bow and arrow
- Books like; The Poppy War, We Hunt The Flame, Circe
- Friends-to-Lovers-to-Enemies-to-Who Knows!?
- Collecting book boyfriends

Will I reread? YES!

A wonderful expansion of the existing Chang’e story! Xingyin, the protagonist, is well-written and has great depth, as well as going on her own journey of growth. A rich fantasy world with a pacy plot, beautiful descriptions and a couple of surprises - it was a brilliant read.

A gorgeously told fantasy that deserves a place kn every fantasy lovers bookshelf. Perfect for fans of Laini Taylor and Roshani Chokshi.

Daughter of the Moon Goddess introduces us to Xingyin, the titular daughter of the Moon Goddess (Chang’E), who has been hidden away on the moon. I watched a talk where Sue Lynn Tan mentioned that she wanted to change the way that the tale of Chang’E is told, making it so that Chang’E is actually taking the elixir for a good cause (instead of the narrative of it being for selfish reasons) and really what could be better than for her to have taken it to save the life of her child? That begins the mother-daughter bond in this story, which absolutely will have you crying at how beautiful it is. It’s clear that both Chang’E and Xingyin will take whatever risks that they can for each other and it will tug at the heartstrings of anyone who has a similar bond with their parental figure(s).

Chang’E has done well to hide her daughter (fearing punishment for both of them if the Celestial Emperor and Celestial Empress had found out about her), but one day Xingyin accidentally loses control of magic she didn’t know she had, alerting the Celestials to something strange on the moon. Panicking, Chang’E and Ping’Er decide it’s best to hide her with Ping’Er’s family, though along the way soldiers attack and Xingyin instead ends up alone.

This first part (the story is split into three main parts) is focused on Xingyin learning to find her place in the Celestial Kingdom. Starting off as a servant, she ends up in a chance meeting with a peculiar man who ends up being Prince Liwei. There are cinnamon rolls and then there are super sweet cinnamon rolls who are the most adorable thing ever, Liwei is the latter. He needs a companion for his studies and Xingyin competes for the position. Studying with Liwei over years, they form a close friendship which is adorable to watch, and it ends up being a fantastic friends-to-lovers story full of depth. But… it doesn’t last. His parents think that Xingyin is a commoner only (as she obviously hides her parentage from everyone around) so they make sure that no romance can stay by having Liwei become engaged to a Princess from another kingdom, to form a stronger alliance.

“The sun and the moon. A matched pair.”
That’s all I’ll mention of that particular romance, to save any huge spoilers, but around that time I really did not like him for it but… well, read it to see what happens.

When training with the Prince, Xingyin discovers she’s a very talented archer (just like her father, Houyi), which leads a General to offer her place in the army should she wish. Part two of the story is essentially her growing into a renowned, loved warrior… whilst getting a little close to a Captain called Wenzhi. I really liked him in part two, he was forever protecting Xingyin in battles against mythical creatures (and their appearance in DOTMG is another reason why I loved this story) and he was just so cute to her… Eventually, Xingyin proves herself to the extent that she can win any favour from the Emperor, but the Emperor is callous and sends her on a quest to release the dragons and take their pearls before he’ll grant it. That’s the basis of part three.

Now, dragons! I adore whenever a story has them in and I wholeheartedly appreciate it so much more when the dragons are revered, kind creatures. Big tick for DOTMG with that! They’re protectors first and foremost and although we don’t see too much of them, I fell in love with them a little as characters.

Throughout the story, Xingyin’s character growth is incredibly easy to see. She begins as a timid girl, unsure of herself and what she can do, and at the end her actions and love for others build her into a fierce, confident woman who is only afraid of doing things that would go against her honour or harm her mother.

‘If I had learned anything over these years, it was that no one won in a war, not even those who thought they did.’
If you’re reading this review thinking the story sounds like it has a lot going on, it absolutely does. It’s crazy how many things happen and how many worlds Sue Lynn Tan transports us to but it’s all aided by fantastic world-building. And… if you love the idea of magical clothing then this has in too! Things such as cranes that dance around skirts, aided by a person’s own magic, it just all sounded so beautiful. Even, the transportation! Celestials form clouds which they travel on and I’m seriously hoping we’ll get some fan art of that because the vision in my head is gorgeous but I’d love to see it created by a talented artist!

But Xingyin is both a beauty and a fierce warrior. She knows how to protect herself and she’s not afraid to do so (although she gets a lot more confident with this as the story goes on). Throughout the story she forms bonds of friendship easily, which leads the story to having a little element of found family, particularly with select fellow warriors like the adorable Shuxiao and General Jianyun.

The fact that such a mesmerising story is a debut is stunning, and I honestly can’t wait to see where the sequel goes.

I spent half of this book mentally composing a letter to the author. How can she do this? Splitting such a beautiful story into two! That is not something I could accept. ABSOLUTELY NOT! Leaving Xingyin's fate hanging at the end . . . I can never be ready for this. Well, like-minded readers can rest assured; there is no cliffhanger as such. Certainly, there are loose ends to be tied, more secrets to unravel but the present plot wraps up perfectly.
Obsessed as I am with all the C dramas, the Mid-autumn festival is not an unfamiliar one. But I was a stranger to the story of the moon goddess in whose honour it is celebrated. This came as an eye-opener adding another version to the stories which either condemn or empathise with her. And what a story it is! From the very beginning till the last page there is not even a single dull moment. A warrior woman, a celestial prince, dragons and magic . . . that is an ideal recipe to a cosy evening if there is one.
Sue Lynn Tan's polished and beautiful writing immerses you completely and the world-building will definitely strike a chord with any ardent C drama fan. Action scenes are so vivid and even the love triangle is handled quite smoothly (got conflicted on that one). All in all, a spectacular debut without a doubt! Waiting eagerly for the sequel.

Daughter of the Moon Goddess is the story of a woman growing up and becoming a badass warrior. The thing that stays out the most of this reading is the quote “I can keep myself safe”. This is so empowering and inspiring. I think this is the story of a generation. Our generation being able to be anything we want.

I absolutely adored this reading. The characters were amazingly written. You can see them grow up and evolve and become inspiring person. They want to change the world without wanting to be the heroes. It happens almost regardless of their will, they are heroes because of how it seems normal for them to do good.
The plot was really well done as well. There are some real plot twists in here like woooow. I love how you can really expect what’s going to happen in the next chapter because of how things are always unpredictable. It’s epic and lovely and powerful. Everything you want a fantasy to be.
The world was enchanting and dreamy.

I’m so impressed with this book it is definitely a book you’ll want to read in 2022.

Honestly, I nearly gave up on Daughter of the Moon Goddess within the first few chapters. I found the start of this book both too fast and too slow. The story kicks off very quickly, but although lots of things were happening at the beginning of the novel, the plot really dragged during Part I. It took me a while to warm up to Xingyin (and I feel like I didn't really like her until Part II), and I didn't buy how quickly her relationship with Liwei developed.

That being said...if you're feeling similarly to me, don't give up on this book!

Part II is where the story properly begins, and where you get to see Xingyin really grow as a character. Although her naturally being an amazing archer because of her dad didn't really make sense (although I suspended my disbelief due to the mythology-inspired world), I liked seeing a female protagonist who was a good soldier, but wasn't very skilled at politics and wasn't necessarily the most feminine character.

Xingyin's relationships with the two love interests, Liwei and Wenzhi, were also well-fleshed out from Part II onwards. While I found Liwei pretty boring at the beginning of Daughter of the Moon Goddess, by the end he really grew on me, and Wenzhi gave me serious second-male lead syndrome.

I liked Sue Lynn Tan's dreamy and atmospheric writing (although her writing style was another element of the book that grew on me over time), and I also enjoyed the primary theme of love, both romantic and platonic.

However, my rating for this book is still only 3.5 or 4 stars for several reasons. Firstly, a lot of the twists were very predictable. I don't think I was surprised by any plot twist in this book. Secondly, as I previously stated, the first 30% or so of the book was a bit of a slog to get through. Finally, although I enjoyed seeing Xingyin's relationships with Liwei and Wenzhi develop throughout the course of this book, I felt that her friendships (for example with Shuxiao) and relationships to other side characters could have been further explored.

So overall, while Daughter of the Moon Goddess isn't reinventing the wheel, if you're looking for a fun and easy fantasy read with an interesting protagonist (albeit one who makes some pretty poor decisions), I would give this book a read.

Wow
Spoiler alert, I loved this book.

The first half was my favorite part - aka Xingyin’s time spent in the Celestial Palace. I felt so much because of her longing, the forbidden love, and when she started training as a soldier, it was so good. The second half was definitely more action packed - maybe too much for my taste but still entertaining nonetheless. I just loved the woman Xingyin became : still vulnerable, flawed and a little bit broken, but also determined, fierce and lovable. To be honest, she’s the perfect heroine to me.

Love is such a big theme in this book and I was obsessed.
First, the unconditional love Xingyin has for her mother, it drives her forward in this book.
And then, we’re given a love triangle. I must admit that I loved the love interests even though some stuffs bothered me in both relationships. I know now which one I would pick and I don’t think it’s going to be Xingyin’s choice, sadly. But I also came to realize that in the end, I’m rooting for her and her happiness. That’s all. I’m excited to see how things will wrap up in the upcoming book.

The way I visualised the world was mind blowing. I was completely enchanted by the descriptions and the places we went to. The magic system was so cool and I need to know more about it, especially a certain ability…

Besides the entertaining and spellbinding story, the lovable characters and the wonderful aesthetic of the setting, the writing style is what blew me away. I think Sue Lynn Tan could have written anything, I would have been pleased. It was so beautiful and lyrical, that I got hooked on the story from the beginning and I highlighted so many sentences because of their meaning or the emotions they convey.

To conclude, this book is a masterpiece, inside and out - look at this stunning cover!
I’m going to order a copy right this second… while patiently waiting for the sequel.

Daughter of the Moon Goddess is jam-packed, the plot it’s amazing and the characters and their relationships are intriguing and very well done. I couldn’t stop reading. I loved the Chinese mythology, such a rich culture.

I actually wish there was more, because the book for was amazing. I can’t wait for the next one.

Arc generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

Straight of the bat I have to say this is absolute a 5 star book for me. I loved it, with every inch of my being. I loved the beautiful imagery that Sue Lynn Tan weaved with her words, I loved the characters, oh, how I adored them, I loved the action, the quest, the ending. I loved it all.

@suelynntan debut novel is truly beautiful and jumped straight in to my top 10 books of all time, I can't wait for the second.

I can't say too much without fear of giving away vital pieces of plot in my excitement but I highly, highly recommend this story to anyone and everyone.

Xingyin has become one of my favourite characters ever, I love how fierce and loyal, intelligent, strong willed, brave and defiant she is. She makes no excuses for herself and fights for what she loves always. I adored the dynamic between her and Liwei and warmed with every scene they had together.

I really can't safely say any thing more except I now know my judgement of character is impeccable (if you know, you know 🤣)

Sue Lynn Tan, I applaud you, your writing is magical and immersive and so beautiful. I feel so lucky to have had the chance to have early access and review this masterpiece. So thank you to @harperfictionpr and @netgalley also. I can't wait to own the finished copy.

Thankyou, NetGalley, for letting me read this book.

This is a big fat romp of a story. So many adventures, so many twists and turns, a great central character who develops from frightened child to First Archer of the Celestial Army as the story proceeds. And all set in a world infused with faar eastern mythology - the Celestial Empire, cloud chariots, and wise and noble dragons. This is a book for long winter evenings, a book to sink into and just enjoy the story. I loved it.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

This debut with its absolutely incredible lyrical writing transports you to the celestial realm, where the main character Xingyin is forced from home and decides to infiltrate the court in hopes to free her mother.

Daughter of the Moon Goddess is absolutely jam packed and easily has enough content for two books, which makes it incredibly fast paced, yet Sue Lynn Tan manages to weave in enough breathing room to connect to the characters and really pulls you into the story.

The world-building is expansive, and easily transports you into a kingdom filled with drama, political intrigue and folklore. It really feels like a c-drama condensed in one novel and I loved it. It was as if everything took place an enchanting fairytale, and the descriptions really brought the scenes to life, which made sometimes formulaic plots still feel engrossing and satisfying to read.

I also really liked Xinyin as a protagonist. She’s easy to root for, and you genuinely feel for her loneliness, anguish of having to abandon her mother and how she always; unyieldingly prioritises her family over everything. It was great to see how she carves out a place for herself in this world and how she bloomed into a strong and fierce character.

Though I’m usually not the biggest fan of romance-heavy books, I really liked how it was woven into this story. This is definitely one of the rare books that manages to pull of a love triangle - it never felt like it was put into the story just for the sake of having one, and I was genuinely conflicted about which relationship I rooted for the most.

However, though I enjoyed Xinyin and the other major characters, their characterisation became stagnant after a little while. I feel like this was most noticeable with the two love interests and I’m hoping to read more character growth and exploration of their flaws in the sequel.

Finally, this is a solid fantasy debut with vivid world-building, easy to root for characters and an accessible plot. The writing is evocative and skilful and I will definitely be checking out anything this author writes next. I think this adult fantasy would also appeal to fans of YA and readers who want to read a sweeping East-Asian high fantasy story!