Published by Zephyr, an imprint of Head of Zeus, 2023.

I really enjoyed being transported to the exotic landscapes of Indica (an alternate colonial India) for this magical middle-grade adventure inspired by Indian myths and legends. Gita Ralleigh brings this world wonderfully to life on the page: lush jungle humming with wildlife; a bustling market town rich with vibrant colours and fragrance; a huge palace dominating the skyline; and crowds of pilgrims worshipping at a magnificent temple. There’s a welcome dash of steam punk too – mechanical elephants and a giant airship.

The story centres around fierce orphan girl, Minou Moonshine, who lives with her adopted grandmother on a makeshift barge in the shadow of the General’s palace. Under the tyrant’s rule, life in Moonlally is hard: the monsoons have failed and worship of the native people’s goddess, the Dark Lady, is forbidden. Minou embarks on a quest to bring back the floods, restore the Queendom and unleash the ancient power of the Dark Lady.

I loved the depiction of rebellion and resistance. Central to the plot is an underground resistance group called the Green Orchids: a group of rebels plotting to overthrow the General. We witness secret meetings, admire their ingenious methods of communication, and grasp the power of words and storytelling as a means to spread dissent and challenge tyranny.

I also enjoyed a story with a Queendom and a female deity at its heart. Not to mention a sassy, headstrong and fiercely loyal female lead. Minou is bright, quick-witted and a skilled fighter. Just the kind of person you’d want on your side.

The Destiny of Minou Moonshine is an exciting adventure story given extra depth through its exploration of faith, repression, cruelty and the abuse of power.

Rating: 💙💙💙💙

Suitable for children aged 10+

Thank you to Zephyr for sending me this book to review.