The Blackheart dragons have returned.
As a young Moonlight Walker wolf, Sakura bristles at the tight leash her family insists on keeping her on. She yearns to join the pack and run under the glow of silvery moonlight. Still for reasons no one will explain to her, she’s forced to remain within the boundaries of the secluded forest she calls home.
All that changes when the ruthless Blackheart dragons invade, incinerating their peaceful forest and kidnapping members of her pack. Courage put to the test, Sakura begins a perilous quest to save her family.
Yet beyond the forest, not all is what it seems. Loyalties are tested. Enemies become allies. A destiny is revealed that pits the Wolf King against the Dragon King to claim the ultimate prize—for the Blackhearts will stop at nothing to reign over her world. Murder, treachery and deceit are nothing to them.
As the drums of war sound, can one wolf save the lives of many? Or will Sakura’s fate be decided by those eager to destroy her?
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Vicious dragons, good-natured wolves, and epic battle scenes make Moonlight Walkers, a suspenseful young adult fantasy, a worthwhile read. Moore leaves much to the imagination, including the reason for enmity between the dragons and wolves, that adds to the thrill.
Prose: Moore's style is expressive and elegant, boasting a satisfying balance of dialogue as well as description.
Originality: Steering away from the conventional, Moonlight Walkers features dragons with a decidedly human feel to them, though their inner dragon nature evolves more as the story progresses. The worldbuilding, prolific yet straightforward, may seem familiar at times to genre fans.
Character Development/Execution: Sakura is young, ambitious, and inexperienced—an easily relatable character for younger readers. Moore's theme of a female heroine trying to save her family is refreshing, and secondary characters are equally likable and believable.
Date Submitted: August 28, 2022
