Are You Feeling Lost and Burnt Out? Read This Book
March 5, 2024/
A book review of Moon Soul by Nathaniel Luscombe
Published: March 11th 2024 by Dragon Bone Publishing Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 (4.75 stars) Genres: Cozy Fantasy, Cozy Sci-fi, Adult Fiction
Disclaimer: Thank you Nathaniel Luscombe, Book Sirens and Dragon Bone Publishing for sending me this ebook. All thoughts and opinions are 100% honest and my own.
CW/TW: Grief, abandonment and death of a parent.
Cover of ‘Moon Soul’ by Nathaniel Luscombe with tropes added.
A Cozy Everyday Relatable Novella
August hates her job. It leaves her so completely and utterly drained at the end of the day that she cannot actually live her life. After another gruelling day, August decides that enough is enough and quits.
At first, she rests and recovers. Then, she goes out into the spire, searching for a job that will feed her soul. Along the way, August discovers new and exciting passions, develops friendships and learns how to enjoy life to the fullest.
This Was Written for Me (and maybe for you, too)
I have never related to a book or character more in my entire life. I actually read this book the week I got a new job and submitted my resignation for my current job, which left me with nothing at the end of the day. So, I saw my own story reflected in the pages of Moon Soul.
“Dedicated to anyone feeling lost and alone in their twenties. You are seen.”
Nathaniel Luscombe
The dedication really says it all, and the story lived up to that promise; I finished the novella feeling seen.
A Soft Yet Strong Female Main Character
August is a strong character who is both scared of the changes she is making in her life and knows she needs these changes. She tends to think her problems through before she acts (yet another reason I relate to her). I absolutely loved watching August grow and build the life she wanted; it gave me hope for myself.
A Note on Cozy
If you’re looking for a fast-paced, adventurous book, steer clear of cozy anything. Being a part of a cozy sub-genre means the story is low-stakes, comfortable and, of course, cozy. Moon Soul is no exception, with the book’s premise being to follow August in her daily life as she finds her place in the spire.
Themes & Lessons
The themes of acceptance, forgiveness and the importance of self-care are strong throughout the story. August is learning to be a productive and contributing member of society while balancing caring for herself and her needs. During this journey, she learns to accept her decision to quit a job that only she can do, and she forgives not only herself but also her parents for their past choices.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I loved this novella. It’s a short read that anyone going through changes in life or feeling lost or alone should read, especially those in their twenties. After finishing this book, a small part of me felt seen and healed.
I rated this novella 4.75 stars. If you enjoy cozy fantasies, found family tropes or deep character growth and development in your books, then definitely check this out.