YA Romance • Drama • Supernatural
Summary
If you haven’t heard, Twilight is celebrating its 20-year-anniversary, and to honor that, I’ve been revisiting the iconic saga, and New Moon felt like the perfect read for Halloween season. What screams October more than a romantic supernatural tale between two forbidden lovers, wrapped in melancholy, heartbreak, and moonlight?
Let me preface this by saying: I watched the movies long before I opened the books, and like most adaptations, the books are better tenfold. If you want the vampire/werewolf vibe without the cinematic cringe, this is it.
New Moon picks up with Bella Swan, still reeling from her intense relationship with Edward Cullen, the century-old vampire who stole her heart. After a dangerous incident, Edward decides their love puts Bella at too much risk, and he leaves. What follows is a raw, all-consuming depression that swallows Bella whole.
In Edward’s absence, something unexpected happens. Bella begins to reconnect with the world outside the Cullen family, most notably with Jacob Black, her childhood friend. Their bond grows stronger, and with it, Bella begins to heal. Jacob is warm, grounded, and fiercely loyal. This is a stark contrast to Edward’s cold intensity.
Teenagers, beware: this is not a love story to romanticize. Bella’s obsession with Edward borders on self-erasure, and Meyer doesn’t shy away from showing how destructive that can be. However, that’s what makes the story compelling! It’s a portrait of emotional unraveling, and the slow, painful process of stitching yourself back together following young heartache.
Book Series Turned Movie Phenomenon
I loved this book, particularly because Edward isn’t the entire focus of it. His absence allows Bella’s emotional landscape to take center stage, and it’s messy, painful, and deeply relatable. New Moon explores how easy it is to confuse love with control, and how heartbreak can both destroy and rebuild us.
The writing captures Bella’s inner turmoil with haunting clarity. She loves him. She can’t let go, and yet, Jacob offers her something different. Something safe. Real. The stakes are high, and the supernatural elements only amplify the emotional tension.
If you’ve only seen the film, I highly recommend reading the book. The emotional depth, the pacing, and Bella’s internal monologue offer a richer experience. I think that this is where the novels and movies differ the greatest because after finishing this portion of the Bella/Edward/Jacob saga, I can’t imagine anyone still choosing Team Edward over Team Jacob. I’m sure I’ll get flack for squandering this epic romance, but I had to stand my ground. Edward is bad news, whereas Jacob is the Labrador (ha ha) lying in wait to pledge his undying loyalty to her.
Final Thoughts
New Moon is a must-read for Twilight fans, especially those craving emotional complexity and supernatural drama. It’s a story about breaking, healing, and the blurry line between love and obsession. Whether you’re Team Edward, Team Jacob, or Team Bella-Needs-Therapy, this book will leave you feeling something.
If you’re interested in reading the book, click here to purchase it. By using my affiliate link to purchase the novel, I make a small profit from its sale. I’m a book lover, hopefully like you, looking to turn my dream into a reality. Each contribution brings me one step closer to making that come true. Thank you!
For more book recommendations, click here.
Her Voice Rising 