Girls Dem Club’s First Book Club Meet: When the Moon Hatched

Spoilers ahead! You have been warned.

Our very first fantasy book club meeting was nothing short of magical, fitting for a 576-page epic with over 70 chapters. With more than eight members joining us for our first meet, we kicked things off with energy, laughter, and some debate.

A Diverse Reading Crew

Our members come from all kinds of reading backgrounds, some lifelong fantasy lovers, others brand-new to the genre. From mythology buffs to self-help devotees, our perspectives brought fresh angles to every discussion.

First Impressions: Songs, Elements, and Class Divides

We encouraged our readers to start with Chapters 1 and 2, where the magic unfolds and the novel's pantheon is described. The introduction of the four elemental deities, who grant magic through song, was an intriguing concept for us all. It also led to comparisons with Avatar: The Last Airbender! We talked about the magic system and the evident tension between those who can use it and those who cannot. While some readers were immediately captivated by the fast-paced opening, others thought the extensive world-building was somewhat overwhelming.

Style, Words, and… a Lot of “Belly”

The group had mixed opinions on the writing style: some appreciated the detailed descriptions, while others thought the prose could be more concise by eliminating "fluff." Certain frequently used words were noticeable, and not always positively. The author seems unconcerned about readers unfamiliar with the language, urging them to consult the extensive glossary from the first page. This proved tricky for our Kindle readers due to access but they rose to the challenge.

Meet Raeve: A Different Kind of Heroine

Raeve, the main character, is a strong and politically conscious young woman influenced by past traumas and a lack of trust. Her sharp intellect and exceptional abilities have made her a favorite among our readers. The story prominently features themes of class struggle, rebellion, sisterhood, and a pursuit of justice, rather than the usual "save the world" arc.

What’s Next for our Book Club

We’ll be meeting every two weeks, tackling about eight chapters a week.

Next up: Chapters 3–18.

Whether you’re here for the politics, the magic, or the slow-burn romance, When the Moon Hatched promises plenty to talk about. And we’re just getting started.