To me, this book can easily be divided into two main components: Plot and Vibes. As far as Vibes are concerned, it absolutely delivered! The mysterious cafe, the magical cats, the zodiac symbolism – it was like a Pinterest board come to life. The author was inspired by artwork to write the book, and that’s really reflected in the atmosphere. Everything is so vividly imagined, and feels very visual and tangible.

The actual plot was… fine. I liked the main characters and their intertwined lives, but I would have liked them to come back together a bit more at the end. Their starting points were all interlinked, it just would have been nice to have that be more significant as their stories went on.

The audiobook has three different narrators, which I really liked – it gave each character a distinct voice, and all the narrators did an excellent job. It did really highlight, though, how separate their storylines were, and made them feel slightly more detached from each other.

Overall this was an enjoyable listen for whimsical fantasy fans, but didn’t quite deliver on the plot for me.

I received a free copy for an honest review.

A coffee shop that appears out of nowhere, attracting people who need just a push to get their life back on track. But the catch is, the cafe takes no orders! With a mix of astrological approaches & magical realism, guiding people to help them discover their lost charm it a sweet story.

The book has a calm narrative, despite the troubles of life it speaks of & it makes a really good cozy book to read when you feel low on a gloomy day. It's surely not a reread type, but the aspects of magic amalgamated so well into the story that you will enjoy the journey.

This gave me many parallels to ‘Before the Coffee gets Cold’ in that we have a host of various characters who seem to stumble upon a mysterious and magical coffee shop just when they need them. The people are all connected from childhood or through various degrees of separation which we discover as the book progresses.
If you’ve been stung by the Japanese cat book “scam” (cats on the cover but not in the book!) don’t worry, they are a big feature of this read!
What’s very different here is the focus on astrology and the influence of the planets on our lives and personalities. I learnt a lot although couldn’t always remember the information as I let this book gently wash over me.

I found it a little repetitive to be honest, as we hear a lot of stories and memories twice just from the different characters’ perspectives, which often I found redundant and didn’t add anything much of interest.
Overall it’s a cosy, reflective read that makes you think about decisions made in life, human connection and the way the stars might be watching out for us.

I liked listening to it as an audiobook and enjoyed the different narrators who I believe are Japanese native speakers, which gave it a really authentic feel!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for access to this book.

"The Full Moon Coffee Shop," by Mai Mochizuki and narrated by Sadao Ueda; Tomoko Komura; and Yuriri Naka is a heartwarming tale that effortlessly blends magical realism and self-discovery. From the moment I pressed play on the audiobook, I was enchanted by the unique premise: a transient coffee shop in Kyoto that opens only under the full moon, run entirely by talking cats. It’s not just a narrative; it's an experience that wraps you in its warm embrace, much like a cosy cup of tea on a chilly night.
The story revolves around a cast of characters who find themselves at a crossroads in their lives—a screenwriter struggling to find her voice, a lovesick director yearning for clarity, a stylist seeking validation, and a video game developer grappling with failure. As they found their way to the enigmatic coffee shop, I felt as though I was joining them on a journey of reflection and insight. The cats, each with their distinct personalities and wise advice, served as both guides and companions, gently nudging the characters to confront their pasts and discover their destinies.
Listening to the audiobook was a delightful experience! The trio of narrators—Sadao Ueda, Tomoko Komura, and Yuriri Naka—brought the characters and their stories to life with such vividness. Each narrator’s unique voice added a layer of depth to the narrative, creating a wonderful dynamic that kept me engaged from start to finish. I felt as if I were sitting in the café, sipping aromatic coffee and soaking in the wisdom dispensed by these charming feline baristas.
What truly resonated with me was the underlying theme of kindness, particularly towards animals. The interactions between the characters and the cats reminded me of the bond I share with my pet—one that is filled with unconditional love and an unspoken understanding. It made me reflect on how enriching our connections with animals can be in our journeys of self-discovery.
The wisdom imparted by the café’s staff, combined with the heartwarming stories of its patrons, offered me insights that I didn’t anticipate. Some of the advice hit home so strongly that I found myself pondering it long after the audiobook concluded. It’s a testament to Mai Mochizuki’s skill in weaving life lessons into her storytelling in a way that feels both magical and grounded.
This story explores themes of destiny, choices, and the delicate balance between dreams and reality. However, the unique twist of talking cats and a mystical coffee shop set this tale apart, making it a refreshing addition to the genre.
I finished the audiobook in one day—it was nearly impossible to pause! The combination of a captivating plot, rich character development, and a touch of ethereal magic left me wanting more.
I truly enjoyed this experience and am looking forward to discovering more from Mai Mochizuki in the future.

On the night of the full moon, an unwary Kyoto resident may well find themselves stopping to patronise a rather unusual coffee shop - one that has appeared in that spot just for the purpose of that encounter, and is run on the principles of the zodiac, with service and life wisdom being dispensed by cats!

I enjoyed this book, particularly the way that the various human characters are able to absorb the life lessons provided, and also how their lives intertwine with each other. The narrator also did an excellent job.

I sometimes find with translated Japanese stories that the use of language is a little too spare and can sometimes feels stilted, even when I like the ideas. This book was different in that (while I am not the greatest fan of the zodiac itself), the language feels more contemporary and flows more easily. If you like the other stories in this genre, you will certainly like this one!

The Full Moon Coffee Shop is a cozy and beautifully written short story collection. It's also the first book in a series, so if you enjoy this book, more stories are on the way. The book is about a cafe run by cats who give advice to people. All the stories are lovely and emotional. There were several narrators who fit perfectly with the stories. I really enjoyed listening to them. It was a really short book, and I enjoyed it a lot. If you like cats, astrology, and food, you should definitely pick up this book. I hope the other books in this series will also be translated. Thanks to Netgalley and Octopus Audio for the audio arc.

This audiobook is really well read but I didn't take to the narrative style or main character and ultimately, didn't finish it because I'm not the correct audience for the book. I can absolutely understand why many people will love it.

very lovely. a fun take on the genre of 'unassuming places to learn life lessons', akin to toshikazu kawaguchi. definitely one to recommend for anyone after a warm, easy, but meaningful read.

Nice little stories told from two angles however the narration was hard to follow. Authentic and sweet would be better as written word. Thank you #NetGalley for the audiobook to review.

'The Full Moon Coffee Shop' is the latest offering in the popular 'feel good' genre, where unhappy/unsatisfied people undergo transformative events that enable them to sort out their problems. It's wish fulfilment of course - everyone wants to believe that life can get better - so it's no wonder lots of readers love this type of story. What's more unusual with this novel is the emphasis on astrology as the way to achieve a better life, something I don't personally believe in but many millions do.

The story is rather bizarre and magical realist. The characters - five linked middle aged people living or working in Kyoto - stumble across a pop-up cafe run by giant talking cats. The cats hand out beverages and cod psychology along with astrological advice that enables each of the characters to make positive changes in their lives. I never understood why there needed to be talking cats involved, or even a mystical element. If the author wants to encourage readers to take astrology seriously, this isn't the way to do it. I suppose it's quirky and some people like that, but to me it just seemed pointless and gimmicky.

The writing style is readable and I enjoyed the parts set in the 'real world' where we learn about the characters' histories and see their interactions in normal situations. But I didn't appreciate the magical realist elements and the lengthy treatises on astrology. I didn't find those enlightening and it hasn't made me feel any more interested in my horoscope than I was before. I kept waiting for the real story to take off, and eventually realised the story was no more than these people being given fairly obvious advice by talking felines, dressed up in a lot of astrological trimmings. I did like how the different threads came together, and I imagine Mochizuki is able to write a good plot if she isn't diverted by magical realistic strangeness.

It works reasonably well as an audiobook in that it is easy to follow, and saves stumbling over Japanese pronunciations. I didn't like the first narrator very much, as I found her delivery stilted and the rhythm didn't flow right, making it hard to listen to. But the second two narrators were both fine. I was pleased that all three narrators were Japanese or of Japanese heritage, as is right for a work with Japanese characters set in Japan.

Personally this book wasn't really for me although as I say it does have some redeeming features. The fact the writing style is decent and the characters interesting means it may well go down a lot better with readers who like magical realism or those who believe in astrology or are keen to learn more about it.

This is a beautiful book.

It’s not what I expected, especially the astrology, but it’s so well written and joyous I wanted to keep going back to it.

The characters are flawed but interesting and the cats are brilliant! I’d love to go to the cafe!

Would recommend to anyone who is not sure where they are going in life and needs a reminder of the mysteries of the universe.

Like a big hug!

The Full Moon Cafe appears in Kyoto just where it is needed. And on this full moon, five people in different phases of their lives are drawn there: A down-on-her-luck screenwriter, an actress with a scandalous affair, a TV director in the middle of the heartbreak, a failed video game developer, and an unhappy stylist. There they are served fantastic tea, snacks, and coffee - by talking cats. Guided by the cats, the guests embark on a spiritual journey, using the cats' astrological knowledge to recognize the way to put their lives back on the right track. Paths that intertwine as if guided by the stars.

It's a nice feel-good story, with good characters, and a sweet positive message. Charming, but a little too esoteric for me. It is a sweet story that intertwines the lives of five characters. I love that the book has magical cats, but I probably would have enjoyed it more if the characters' therapeutic conversations had a less astrological, esoteric explanation. On the other hand: magical cats serve pancakes and tea!

To the Audiobook: All the readers did an amazing job. They captured the characters, set the ambiance of the scenes well, and were a joy to listen to.

I love the fact that this book has cats in it, honestly makes it so much better compared to if it was all humans. As someone who loves cats it was a real nice experience to listen to this story.

“The Full Moon Coffee Shop” by Mai Mochizuki is a heartwarming and enchanting tale that effortlessly blends whimsy with profound life lessons. Set under a glittering full moon in the mystical streets of Kyoto, this magical coffee shop is no ordinary café. It has no fixed location or opening hours and appears only when someone truly needs it. Run entirely by wise and talkative cats, this unique haven serves up not just the finest coffees and fragrant teas, but also a generous helping of life-altering wisdom.

The story centers around a diverse cast of characters, each struggling with their own personal dilemmas. From a down-on-her-luck screenwriter to a lovesick TV director, a misunderstood stylist, and a failed video game developer, the patrons of the Full Moon Coffee Shop are as varied as they are relatable. Through their encounters with the shop’s feline guides, these lost souls embark on astrological journeys that force them to confront their pasts, and ultimately discover their true purpose in life.

What makes this book truly special is its ability to blend together the magical and the mundane in a way that feels both uplifting and deeply personal to the reader/listener. The talking cats, with their sage advice and intuitive understanding, are more than just charming companions—they serve as mirrors reflecting the characters’ deepest fears and desires. As the characters’ paths intertwine, the audience is reminded of the interconnectedness of all lives, and the idea that even the most unexpected encounters can lead to profound transformations. The experience is greatly enriched by the splendid narration provided by Sadao Ueda, Tomoko Komura, and Yuriri Naka who deliver a great listening experinece to the ears of audiobook fans.

The Full Moon Coffee Shop is a celebration of the serendipitous moments that lead us to where we need to be. It's a gentle reminder that it's never too late to rediscover our purpose, and that sometimes, the most unlikely guides can lead us to the most remarkable revelations.

For those who have ever felt lost or in need of a little magic, this book offers a comforting escape. Much like Matt Haig’s “The Midnight Library” or John Strelecky’s “The Café on The Edge of The World” book series , it is a story that lingers long after the last page is turned.

Special thanks to NetGalley, Octopus Audio | Brazen, and the editorial team for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC in audiobook format and to you, my reader, for taking the time to read this honest personal book review.

If you are interested in other of my book reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads! #TheFullMoonCoffeeShop #NetGalley #LifeLongLearning

<i> Note: This review is based on an ARC copy </i>

What a wonderful whimsical story. A cafe that appears when people are struggling or on the wrong path, so when they need it the most and they receive guidance and support. But wait for it, the cafe has cats as the servers, talking ones. I mean it sounds like a brilliant idea to me! A talking cat cafe would definitely make me feel better if I was struggling. It covers a lot of real life problem woven in and finding solutions. Just a lovely thought provoking listen.

An inspiring story with a soothing voice of the narrator. I always love to read Japanese fiction, because they always have a deep and meaningful story plot. This cafe is such a magical cafe. If there is a cafe like this in real life, please let me know! I am impressed by the imagination of the author and thank you to the narrator who makes the story even more enjoyable!

Many thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for my copy.

Pub date: Aug 29, 2024

"The stars don't decide your future, all they do is to help you choose one for yourself."

I absolutely love the reference of cafe, cats and stars used in this book to guide the different protagonists find back their spark or the path to find success and hope.
The cafe appears only to selected people and once you enter you cannot order a food/drink for yourself. Only the hosts, three talking cats can offer you an item to eat. The item are suitable and matches your need meanwhile the hosts go through your history and star chart to help you understand your issue of life and guide you to tackle with it.
I absolutely love the execution of all the elements in this book.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of this book!

What an enjoyable listen this was. From the word go I was hooked into the story, both the narrator and author did such a good job sinking us into the lives of each of the protagonists which is even more impressive given how short this novel is!

Overall, a very light hearted story, fluffy, and highly enjoyable. I finished it in one day.

Thank you to the publisher and to Netgalley for providing me with a free audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed The Full Moon Coffee Shop, it felt like such a refreshing little pallet cleanser, not too heavy and fully lush.

The Full Moon Coffee Shop had just the right amount of magic, I think my favourite bits were the cats.

I definitely will be revisiting The Full Moon Coffee Shop when I need something light and fluffy to cleanse my soul.

Mai Mochizuki's The Full Moon Coffee Shop is one of those soothing stories that will warm your heart when you need it the most.
Unfolding around different characters, the Full Moon Coffee shop tells the story of those souls that get lost at some point in their lives. A writer who's lost her fame because of the new generation's interests; a renowned actress who becomes the victim of the backlash of the press after discovering that the man she is having a relationship with is married; a young woman who does not thrive in her career anymore, etc. All of them are connected, without knowing, and they will encounter the full moon coffee shop and their talking cats: Venus, Chronos, and the Master. If only they are willing to listen to the stars, maybe, only maybe, will they find the missing piece to complete their happiness puzzles.

I was offered the opportunity to listen to the audiobook of this novel, published by Brazen, Octopus Audio—thank you and Netgalley for that opportunity!

First, I have to say that it was my first story by Mai Mochizuki. I thought the translation by Jesse Kirkwood read really well, and I absolutely loved the fact that the narrators were all Japanese! It was a delight listening to the Japanese sentences being narrated in proper Japanese, even though I couldn't get what was being said, and I even thought that their little accents gave this je-ne-sais-quoi that made the audiobook very special. Also, I greatly appreciated the fact that the publishing house hired both female and male narrators to adapt to the characters. Amazing job on this work!

When it comes to the story itself, having read another novel with similar themes and a very close concept not long ago, I enjoyed my reading but was not blown away (note: it was not my attention in the first place anyway, since I knew what I was getting myself into). What grabbed my attention was the fact that (1) the café was held by cats and (2) the cats were talking. It made me vaguely think about Studio Ghibli's The Cat Returns, which contributed to making me create a sort of vibe around the story. And frankly speaking, I liked it! In addition to that, there is astrology!!! The cats have the planets's names and can read the astrological chart of each visitor, something which helps them re-orientate their lives depending on their birth chart. Considering that cats are very important in Japan (they bring luck!), I thought that associating them with stars was nice and cute, in some ways.

Again in this novel, all the tales are like threads woven together into a beautiful tapestry. Their point of convergence, which I will not reveal to avoid spoilers, was really heart-warming and beautiful! So generally, it's a very good audio for a nice little story that won't require too much concentration; if you've read Aoyama Michiko's "What You Are Looking for is in The Library," Tawagushi Toshikazu's "Before the Coffee gets Cold" series, or any Japanese novels that enter the genre, you will appreciate your reading! I will recommend this story to my readers who are fans of books, cats, and astrology.