YA Fantasy Audiobook Review: Daughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn Tan

Daughter of The Moon Goddess ( The Celestial Kingdom #1)

bought on Audible

Synopsis from Goodreads

Growing up on the moon, Xingyin is accustomed to solitude, unaware that she is being hidden from the feared Celestial Emperor who exiled her mother for stealing his elixir of immortality. But when Xingyin’s magic flares and her existence is discovered, she 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 learn alongside the emperor's son, mastering archery and magic, even as passion flames between her and the prince.

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 in which she is torn between losing all she loves or plunging the realm into chaos.

A captivating debut fantasy inspired by the legend of Chang'e, the Chinese moon goddess, in which a young woman’s quest to free her mother pits her against the most powerful immortal in the realm. Daughter of the Moon Goddess begins an enchanting, romantic duology which weaves ancient Chinese mythology into a sweeping adventure of immortals and magic—where love vies with honor, dreams are fraught with betrayal, and hope emerges triumphant.

8.5/10

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This turned out surprisingly good! I started the book rolling my eyes hard at sugary romance between the prince and his companion. Classic xinxia setup! 

However, they both proved me wrong with their level of maturity. Basically, both ML and FL got over themselves pretty quickly and went on with their lives like adults. 

The secondary romance developed so fast I must have blinked and missed its onset, but it definitely added tension and depth, especially when two men had to work together. * snort* Oh, the antagonism!

I'd say the action sequences were the most interesting and best written and I wished the author elaborated more about Xingyin's missions in the army as I was entertained the most with their descriptions.

Overall, a solid four star read. Will be checking out the next book in the series.