Romantasy

Review: Daughter of the Cursed Moon by A.D Dalley

May 31, 2026

Synopsis:

I am shadow-blessed. I do not fear the light nor her wrath.

Syra Lunatici, a Luanthian blessed with shadow magic, learned early in life that her very existence was dangerous within the Solerian-ruled Kingdom of Tavari. Since the night of The Cleansing, she has been forced to hide her identity, her silver hair, and the shadows that writhe in her blood. She has worked for years to achieve her dreams of becoming a Potion Master to better care for the fellow Luanthians in the Old Quarter, but a chance encounter with a wounded man changes the course of her fate.

Thrust into a world of prophecy and adventure to find a cure for an illness that has plagued Tavari for a century, Syra must venture across unforgiving deserts and snowy forests with a group that includes the Solerian Prince Kairen and his loyal Captain of the KingsGuard, Roan Delmar. Born Luanthian, now a Solerian Convert, Roan Delmar is dangerous and keen to uncover the hidden past that could be Syra’s undoing. Will she be able to keep her true identity hidden in shadows and deceit or will the cleansing fire of the stake be Syra’s fate?

Review:

From the very first pages, I could tell this was a book I was going to enjoy, and that feeling stayed with me throughout. The story is set in a world shaped by a long-standing divide between two groups that once lived in harmony, until conflict turned one into the ruling power while the other was oppressed. It’s clear from the start that this kind of imbalance could never lead to lasting peace.
When a deadly illness began to spread, affecting everyone regardless of their background, blame is quickly placed on the already disadvantaged side – despite the lack of real proof. In the search for a cure, an unlikely group of characters comes together, each with their own past, motives, and reasons for joining the journey.

Syra, who lost her mother at a young age, has spent her life hiding who she truly is to avoid punishment – or worse. What stood out most to me was her determination to help others, no matter their background or beliefs. She repeatedly puts herself at risk, quietly protecting those like her while keeping her own identity hidden. Just as she begins preparing for a future role, unexpected strangers enter her life and change everything.
The story feels like a true adventure. From travelling by ship to crossing deserts and icy landscapes, the journey is full of variety. The group of five, brought together by prophecy, may seem unlikely at first, but their different backgrounds quickly create strong connections. Their interactions, humour, and growing bond made this especially enjoyable to read. I instantly connected with Syra and admired her strength and resilience – plus, the slow-burn romance added an extra layer without taking over the story.

Overall, this was such a fun and engaging read. The cast felt well-balanced, the world-building was clear without being overwhelming, and the magic system was easy to follow. I was hooked almost immediately – this is exactly the kind of story that works for me. For a debut novel, this was done very well. The pacing worked well and the reading experience was exceptional to me. The overall vibe just did something to me 🙂

🌙 Recension: Daughter of the Cursed Moon (Book 1) by A.D Dalley
📚 Genre: Romantasy
📅 Release Date: May 31, 2026
📗 available in various formats – included in Kindle Unlimited
📱 Read as: Kindle
💸 I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
🗣️ Language: English
📆 Pages: 468
⭐️ 5/5