The Killing Moon

by NK Jemisin
The Killing Moon cover
Good Books rating 4.28
Fantasy
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  • ID: 4630
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-22
  • ISBN: 9780748129997
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2012-05-03
  • Reviews: 4

The Killing Moon by N. K. Jemisin is a captivating fantasy series that delves into the intricate world of Gujaareh, where peace is maintained by the Gatherers, priests of the dream-goddess. These keepers of peace harvest the magic of the sleeping mind to heal and, when necessary, kill those deemed corrupt. However, when a sinister plot unfolds within the city's great temple, Ehiru, the most renowned Gatherer, finds himself questioning everything he believes in. As innocent dreamers are murdered in the goddess' name, Ehiru must protect the woman he was sent to kill or watch his city descend into chaos and forbidden magic. Jemisin's work is celebrated for its breathtaking imagination and narrative boldness, making The Killing Moon a must-read for fans of intricate world-building and thought-provoking fantasy. The novel explores themes of morality, justice, and the consequences of power, all wrapped in a richly detailed and immersive setting.

Reviews
Fantasy Book Review · Alice Wybrew · 2025-10-21
powerful 4.60

The book is described as powerful and enchanting, offering a unique fantasy experience. The reviewer gives it a high rating, praising its originality and depth.

Alice Wybrew from Fantasy Book Review found The Killing Moon to be powerful, enchanting, and unlike anything else in the fantasy genre. They praised the book's originality and depth, noting that it offers a unique and captivating experience for readers. The reviewer also highlighted the well-constructed world and the engaging narrative, making it a standout in the fantasy genre. The emotional and ambitious undertones are praised, making it a standout in the fantasy genre.

Quick quotes

    Powerful, enchanting and unlike anything else out there, The Killing Moon is a feast for the fantasy senses.

    It's easy to read and follow, but at the same time there is this huge, well-constructed world to discover over the course of the novel.

    The Killing Moon is a story of greed and peace, of emotion and ambition, and of a place in our minds and hearts.

Dominic Merrick · 2021-04-10
enchanting 4.00

The prose is described as enchanting and terse, with a spell-like quality that draws the reader in. The reviewer appreciates the simplicity and surprise in the writing style.

Dominic Merrick found the prose of The Killing Moon to be like a spell, simple yet enchanting, with no wasted words. They appreciated the terse style and the surprising elements that kept them engaged. The reviewer also noted the book's ability to immerse the reader in its world, making it a captivating read from start to finish. The emotional and ambitious undertones are praised, making it a standout in the fantasy genre.

Quick quotes

    The prose style is like a spell, seemingly simple but enchanting, no wasted words, terse and at some points managing to be surprising, yet ...

    The Killing Moon is a story of greed and peace, of emotion and ambition, and of a place in our minds and hearts.

    The prose is described as enchanting and terse, with a spell-like quality that draws the reader in.

SFFWorld · 2013-07-14
thought-provoking 4.00

The book explores complex themes of greed, peace, emotion, and ambition, creating a rich tapestry that may initially seem muddled but ultimately resonates deeply. The narrative is both intricate and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impression.

This review delves into the multifaceted layers of 'The Killing Moon,' highlighting its exploration of greed, peace, emotion, and ambition. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the story, noting that it may seem convoluted at first but ultimately offers a profound and meaningful experience. The narrative's ability to weave together these themes is praised, making it a standout work in the fantasy genre. The reviewer also commends the book's ability to evoke strong emotions and provoke thought, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    The Killing Moon is a story of greed and peace, of emotion and ambition, and of a place in our minds and hearts.

    That may seem muddled and over-wrought, but it is not.

    The Killing Moon is a book that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.

Fantasy Cafe · 2012-05-29
excellent 4.50

The book excels in writing, world-building, and character development, making it a standout read. The reviewer found it to be their favorite book of the year.

This review highlights how 'The Killing Moon' is a fantastic book that excels on all levels, from the writing to the world-building and character development. The reviewer was particularly impressed with the intricate details and the richly imagined world. They found it to be their personal favorite read of the year, praising its unique blend of fantasy elements and compelling narrative. The book's ability to captivate and engage the reader from start to finish is a testament to its quality.

Quick quotes

    The Killing Moon is a fantastic book and my personal favorite I've read so far this year.

    It's a book that excels on all levels – the writing, world, and character development are all top-notch.

    The intricate details and richly imagined world make it a standout read.

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