<i> I received an advanced readers copy through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review, </i>

I have to say that I never read historical fiction but this book has turned me in the direction of trying some more. It was such a good read.

<b><u>What I liked:</u></b>
- The way the story was told. No heavy amounts of talking, just when into telling the story of the time and coming out of it with scene breaks
- How it handled talk around rape and abortion. Showing the importance of the need to have an escape plan when in a terrible situation
- It shows the even though some people do great things (like going to war) it doesn’t mean they are a good person deep down.

<b><u>What I disliked:</u></b>
- It felt a little description heavy at points but that’s more a personal preference

<b>5 out of 5 stars, I loved everything about this book. It was eye opening and starts a great conversation around the overturn of Roe v. Wade.</b>

In this compelling novel, secrets smolder beneath the surface, igniting a journey of discovery and bravery that transcends the ordinary. The author masterfully unveils the complexities of life in Appalachia, where shadows conceal more than just the landscape. Through the eyes of its captivating female protagonists, we traverse a landscape fraught with challenges, yet illuminated by an extraordinary resilience that defies the odds. A haunting tale that resonates long after the final page is turned, this book is a testament to the indomitable strength found within the heart of Appalachia's daughters.

Thank you #NetGalley for the opportunity to read the ARC of this wonderful story!

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again - any story that centers around women always has me hooked. This was a poignant story about Antigone (“Tig”) Costello trying to uncover the roots of her family’s past. Along the way in her journey of finding the truth, she uncovers stories of the strong and courageous women who fought for themselves and other women during a time where they had no voice and no right to choose. Oftentimes in these stories, the characters meet such dreary ends, so it was so nice to see the women in this book find solace.

I love books about Appalachia, family secrets, and institutions. This book hit all three out of the park. It was deeply haunting, and I absolutely loved it.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union for the opportunity to read The Moonflowers by Abigail Rose-Marie, a stunning debut reinforcing beliefs that as much as some things have changed, the more they have, sadly, stayed the same. It speaks forcefully and eloquently of the power of women when united. Highly recommended

The name and cover of this book caught my eye immediately, but the story that unfolds within its pages will be what stays with me for years to come.

The Moonflowers By Abigail Rose-Marie is a stunning and devastating tale about three women in the hills of Kentucky who fought for the safety of women in a world dominated by brutal men. Told from the perspective of Antigone, Tig for short, the book begins with her as she drifts aimlessly through life as she tries to recover from a sexual assault that she ensured while she was an art student. She finds herself in the hills of Kentucky to paint a portrait of her grandfather who, although portrayed as a town hero, has a disturbing past. Tig uncovers some dark secrets but also unravels a worthy and heroic story. One worth fighting to tell.
The Moonflowers, although a brilliant work of fiction, brings to light a real-life storyline that has been reapeated endlessly over time. Women being controlled, treated poorly by men with little to no protection from the law.... but also the brave women (and men) that dared to fight passionately for the safety of all women.

Thank you #NetGalley, not only for access to read the ARC of this memorable novel but also for adding a new author to my must-read list!