Posted on Leave a comment

Isle of Stars: The Second Book of Moon Mountain by Jess Porto

Intense and dark; a riveting psychological fantasy…

Porto’s second installment in the Moon Mountain series plunges readers into the murky depths of memory, identity, and self-determination. Once a formidable force, Morgan Thomas is now a prisoner in her own mind—her body hijacked by a malevolent force, leaving her trapped in a labyrinth of illusions. Her only hope lies with Vera Gallagher, a former enemy turned reluctant ally. But as Vera navigates the fractured terrain of Morgan’s psyche, treachery and deceit lurk at every corner.

Porto expertly blends fantasy and psychological suspense, converting Morgan’s broken subconscious into an eerie battleground. Each desolate setting reflects the turmoil within her, amplifying the story’s tension. Morgan’s desperate fight to reclaim her identity feels raw and immediate, and the shifting dynamics between her and Vera—from mistrust to a fragile alliance—add emotional depth. The novel’s pacing is taut, escalating with each twist and turn until a final, nerve-wracking confrontation that brings their struggle to a gripping crescendo.

At its core, the novel delves into the nature of identity and the role of memory in shaping the self. As Morgan battles to regain control of her mind, the story raises profound questions about how memories define us and what happens when they are erased. By setting much of the narrative within Morgan’s subconscious, Porto blurs the line between reality and illusion, illustrating how perception shapes our world. The ever-changing landscapes of Morgan’s mind serve as a metaphor for the uncertainty of reality and the arduous journey toward self-understanding. Fans of the series will appreciate this deeper exploration of Morgan and Vera’s psyches, while newcomers will be captivated by the raw intensity of their struggles and the hope that emerges against all odds.

A dark yet ultimately uplifting tale of fighting back when all seems lost.


Buy now

Pub date January 10, 2024

ISBN  979-8218317942

Price $16.99 (USD) Hardcover, $16.99 Paperback, $4.99 Kindle edition, $0.00 Kindle Unlimited

Leave a Reply