Book Review – The Hunter’s Moon by O.R. Melling

The Hunter’s Moon by O.R. Melling

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


It’s not often that I find a good book about the fairy lore of Ireland that isn’t a book of old tales. The Hunter’s Moon was an adventure from start to finish. The plot revolves around two young girls, Findabhair and Gwen, whose plans to visit the ancient Faerie sites and historical monuments, only to be caught up in the world of Faerie itself when the King of the Fairies takes Findabhair for his queen. It is not long after that Gwen becomes “fairy-touched” as well.

I became interested in reading this book first because of how much took place in different parts of Ireland. Then I was pulled in by the world of Faerie and the lore that went with it. O.R. Melling does a fantastic job of putting two modern girls into an Arthurian, mythical tale, akin to the Pearl Poet’s “Gawain and the Green Knight”, abounding in monsters and daring, heroic quests – my favorite kind of story!

I already loved fairy lore, but now I want to learn more about the history of it, not only to better understand the references in The Hunter’s Moon, but also because it is simply fascinating. I was surprised at how much Christianity Melling incorporated into the fairy lore, but I don’t know to the extent they are actually connected historically, and I will need to do some fun research.

Melling also did a great job with the characters: all are very strong, especially Gwen. Here is a girl of sixteen going on the adventure of a lifetime. She holds her own very well, but I am happy to say she is not afraid to ask for help when she needs it, which I think is something many of us need to learn. She is loyal to all her friends, and they in turn are loyal to her, and are also people who won’t shy away from an adventure.

My biggest criticism for this book is that I feel the climax of the book came very last minute, and I wish there would have been more hints to it earlier and more incorporated with the references to fairy lore that were already in place. The conclusion seemed a bit rushed, and I think it could have used another 50-100 pages.

Overall The Hunter’s Moon is full of nonstop adventure from start to finish. I recommend this book to those who love Ireland, fairies, and daring quests!

I’m eager to see what Melling has in store in the next book of the series, The Summer King.



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