Review of The Lunar Codex

[Verna Coy]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Lunar Codex" by Annie O'Connell.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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Book One of the Codex Chronicles, The Lunar Codex by Annie O'Connell, is a novel of fantasy and mystery. Jace lost his parents at the age of three, and he was blessed to have a loving aunt and uncle. Uncle Roman and Aunt Cora stood by him and raised him as their son. Making friends was challenging with the constant moving necessary for Uncle Roman's job. Amazingly, this new house and neighborhood provide some great friends, and at 15 years of age, Jace feels like he's finally in a place where he fits in. When he finds out that his name is Christian Michael Volk and that he is a witch-werewolf, things get dramatic. Aunt Cora and Uncle Roman have been hiding him for years, and there's someone out to get him? Who is it, and how can they escape? To find out, you must read this adventure through the realm of fantasy!

What I liked best about the book was how the characters developed within the storyline. Jace's insecurities and strengths were perfectly matched to the personalities of his family and friends. I loved the family feel of the humor that Jace shared with his Uncle Roman and Aunt Cora. It brought the closeness of emotional connection to the book. Readers will identify with that aspect.

This book is written for the Young Adult genre. It covers many aspects of the teenage lifestyle and social difficulties while carrying the plotline into even more adventurous territory. The narrative is told in the first person from Jace's perspective. This writing style gives the narrative a personal feel that suits the book. Jace and his friends are typical teenagers, which will resonate with readers.

There were a few negatives with this book. The pacing at the beginning of the book was slow. Halfway through the book, the pace picks up with the first real mention of magical elements. Aside from the occasional and somewhat oblique comment in that direction, the book's first half is essentially the story of normal teenagers and the dramas they can whip up each day. After this point in the book, the pace quickened, and the story became much more interesting.

Another awkward aspect was changing the main character's name halfway through the book. Also, giving the main character the name of Christian while making him a cross between a witch and a werewolf seems a bit out of place.

This book achieves a rating of 3 out of 4 stars for these reasons. I found it to be exceptionally well-edited. It will appeal most to fans of fantasy stories with a twist and those who enjoy darker elements such as witchcraft. There is occasional profanity sprinkled throughout the book that ranges from mild to severe.

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The Lunar Codex
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[Amy Luman]

I’m looking for a new series and this just might be it. I am intrigued with how Jace fits in with his aunt and uncle despite not being their biological child. Probably a result go living with them from such a young age. Maybe his magical powers just fit and he feels accepted? I’ll have to read and find out.

[Patty Allread]

I enjoyed your review. Maybe the author could have put more hints of fantasy and hints that Jace/Christian was different from normal teenagers through the book's first part.

[Mvuruzo]

I’m looking for a new series and this just might be it. I am intrigued with how Jace fits in with his aunt and uncle despite not being their biological child. Probably a result go living with them from such a young age. Maybe his magical powers just fit and he feels accepted? I’ll have to read and find out.

I hope it appeals to you. Wishing you a wonderful reading experience. I am new here, but I hope to adapt soonest.

[Gideon Olomofe]

I'm also a fan of fantasy stories. It used to be interesting as characters develop in a story because it makes the story come life and more real. But I regretted the inappropriate features you come across

[Mildred Echesa]

Fantasy books are usually exciting and have some interesting back story, just like this book. I enjoyed so much of your review, and it made me pick interest in reading the book

[ellimctreph]

Wow. What a glowing review, I might have to pick this up!

[Verna Coy]

I’m looking for a new series and this just might be it. I am intrigued with how Jace fits in with his aunt and uncle despite not being their biological child. Probably a result go living with them from such a young age. Maybe his magical powers just fit and he feels accepted? I’ll have to read and find out.

His fitting in was one of the best aspects of the early part of the book. Thanks for your comment!

[Verna Coy]

I enjoyed your review. Maybe the author could have put more hints of fantasy and hints that Jace/Christian was different from normal teenagers through the book's first part.

I agree. Putting in a few more hints would have helped a lot. Thanks for your comment!

[Verna Coy]

I'm also a fan of fantasy stories. It used to be interesting as characters develop in a story because it makes the story come life and more real. But I regretted the inappropriate features you come across

Yes, as stories developed they become more real and that's why we love them so much. Thanks for the great comment!

[Verna Coy]

Fantasy books are usually exciting and have some interesting back story, just like this book. I enjoyed so much of your review, and it made me pick interest in reading the book

Thank you for your nice comments!

[Jydel]

I love fantasy and The Lunar Codex is definitely a book I would love despite the negative aspects mentioned. The review is enlightening.

[Sopulu Ezidimma]

I think the reason they moved was cos they were hiding not because of uncle romans job. Its quite an interesting book. Great review.

[Destiny Freedom]

The review of the Lunar Cordex is amazing, I would love to this one out.

[Peace10]

My love for fantasy fiction is never-ending, especially if it has to do with supernatural beings.