Sarah A. Parker, the author of When the Moon Hatched, is a rising star in the fantasy genre. Her writing style is a unique blend of lyrical prose and immersive storytelling, which captivates readers and transports them into intricately crafted worlds. With When the Moon Hatched, Parker has demonstrated her ability to create complex characters and a deeply engaging narrative that resonates with fans of fantasy and romance alike.

When the Moon Hatched is set in a world where dragons, revered as creators, have left behind moons formed from their curled-up bodies. This celestial event sets the stage for an epic fantasy narrative that blends elements of rebellion, romance, and magic. The book explores themes of loss, redemption, and the eternal struggle between power and freedom. The story revolves around Raeve, an assassin working for the rebellious group Fíur du Ath, and Kaan Vaegor, a king driven by grief and the pursuit of a mysterious moonshard. Parker’s world-building is rich and detailed, offering readers a glimpse into a universe where the past and present collide with devastating consequences.

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Summary

When the Moon Hatched is a fast-paced fantasy romance that follows Raeve, a skilled assassin affiliated with the rebel group Fíur du Ath. Tasked with carrying out lethal missions without being caught, Raeve’s life takes a dramatic turn when she encounters a renowned bounty hunter employed by The Crown. This meeting sets off a series of events that lead Raeve into the hands of the Guild of Nobles, a powerful group of dual-beaded elementals who intend to use her as a political pawn. Her only hope for freedom lies in death, but fate has other plans.

Parallel to Raeve’s story is Kaan Vaegor, a king burdened by loss and a relentless quest for solace. After slaying a king and donning his melted crown, Kaan’s pursuit of a moonshard brings him to the notorious Gore’s prison, where he discovers Raeve. Their unexpected encounter reveals deep connections between their pasts and the dark truths that bind them. As they navigate the treacherous waters of their reality, Raeve and Kaan must confront the echoes of their pasts and the destructive forces that threaten their future.

The narrative weaves together themes of love, loss, betrayal, and the enduring human spirit. The chemistry between Raeve and Kaan is palpable, with their interactions charged with tension, humor, and undeniable attraction. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into a world of dragons, magic, and a rebellion that challenges the very fabric of their society. When the Moon Hatched is a tale of courage and sacrifice, where every choice comes with profound consequences.

Main Characters

• Raeve: A fierce and skilled assassin who works for the rebel group Fíur du Ath. Raeve is resilient, cunning, and carries the weight of a tragic past. Her journey is one of survival and self-discovery as she navigates the dangerous political landscape she finds herself in.
• Kaan Vaegor: A king burdened by grief and driven by a quest for redemption. Kaan is a complex character, torn between his duties as a ruler and his personal demons. His encounter with Raeve forces him to confront truths about himself and the world he inhabits.
• The Guild of Nobles: A powerful group of dual-beaded elementals who play a significant role in the political dynamics of the story. Their motives and actions are shrouded in mystery, adding layers of intrigue to the plot.

Plot

The plot of When the Moon Hatched is intricately woven, blending action, romance, and fantasy. It follows Raeve’s journey as she navigates the perils of being an assassin targeted by a bounty hunter, ultimately leading to her capture by the Guild of Nobles. Simultaneously, Kaan Vaegor’s quest for a moonshard brings him face to face with Raeve, sparking a series of revelations about their shared past. The story is marked by twists and turns, with each chapter building upon the last to create a narrative that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. Parker masterfully balances the tension between the characters’ personal struggles and the larger political conflicts that drive the story forward.

Writing Style

Sarah A. Parker’s writing style in When the Moon Hatched is evocative and immersive. Her prose is rich with detail, bringing the world she has created to life with vivid descriptions and a strong sense of atmosphere. Parker has a talent for crafting dialogue that is both sharp and meaningful, adding depth to her characters and their relationships. The pacing of the book is well-balanced, with moments of intense action interspersed with quieter, more introspective scenes. This allows readers to fully engage with the emotional journey of the characters while remaining invested in the overarching plot.

Theme

The themes in When the Moon Hatched are both universal and deeply personal. Central to the story are the ideas of loss and redemption, as both Raeve and Kaan are characters who have suffered greatly and are searching for a sense of peace. The book also explores the complexities of power and control, particularly in the way the Guild of Nobles manipulates those around them for their own gain. Additionally, the theme of identity is prominent, as Raeve grapples with her role as an assassin and the person she was before. The interplay between love and duty is another key theme, as Raeve and Kaan’s relationship develops amidst the chaos and danger of their world.

Message

When the Moon Hatched conveys a powerful message about the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring nature of love. It emphasizes the importance of confronting one’s past, no matter how painful, in order to move forward and find redemption. The book also highlights the idea that strength can be found in vulnerability and that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope. Through the characters of Raeve and Kaan, Parker explores the idea that love and sacrifice are intertwined, and that true strength comes from the ability to let go and trust in others.

Strength

• Rich world-building: The setting of When the Moon Hatched is immersive and detailed, offering a unique and captivating backdrop for the story.
• Complex characters: Raeve and Kaan are multi-dimensional characters with compelling backstories and motivations that drive the narrative.
• Engaging plot: The book’s plot is full of twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
• Emotional depth: Parker’s writing is infused with emotion, making the characters’ struggles and triumphs feel real and relatable.

Weakness

• Slow start: Some readers may find the beginning of the book slow, as the world and characters are introduced.
• Complex terminology: The book includes a glossary, but the use of unique terms and concepts may be challenging for some readers to follow.
• Length: The book’s length may be daunting for some, although it ultimately delivers a satisfying and immersive experience.

Reading Experience

Readers of When the Moon Hatched will find themselves fully immersed in Sarah A. Parker’s imaginative world. The book’s vivid descriptions and emotional depth create a reading experience that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Fans of fantasy and romance will appreciate the intricate plot and the chemistry between Raeve and Kaan. While the book may require some patience at the beginning, those who stick with it will be rewarded with a rich and satisfying story that stays with them long after the final page.

Conclusion

When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker is a captivating fantasy novel that blends rich world-building, complex characters, and a compelling plot. While it may have a slow start and complex terminology, the story ultimately delivers an emotionally resonant and thrilling narrative. Raeve and Kaan’s journey is one of love, loss, and redemption, set against the backdrop of a world where dragons become moons and rebellion simmers beneath the surface. Parker’s writing is evocative and immersive, making this book a must-read for fans of fantasy romance.

Recommendation

I highly recommend When the Moon Hatched to readers who enjoy fantasy novels with strong, well-developed characters and a plot that combines action, romance, and emotional depth. Fans of authors like Sarah J. Maas and Leigh Bardugo will likely find this book to be a new favorite. Although the book’s length and complexity may be challenging for some, the overall experience is well worth the effort. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy reader or new to the genre, When the Moon Hatched is a book that should not be missed.

Rating : 4.5/5

Happy Reading!

Available on Amazon : https://www.amazon.com/When-Moon-Hatched-Novel-Moonfall/dp/0063415844

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