Moon Music

Many readers found Faye Kellerman's "Moon Music" to be a compelling and intriguing read, with some describing it as a page-turner that takes flight from the very beginning. The novel's setting in Las Vegas and the surrounding Nevada desert was often highlighted as a strong element, providing a glitzy yet mysterious backdrop for the story. Reviewers appreciated the blend of mystery, murder, and mayhem, noting that it offered plenty of crime scene details to satisfy fans of the genre. Some were charmed by its unique and quirky nature, finding the plot deftly executed and full of interesting twists, even combining elements of crime with a touch of the unusual.

However, the book proved highly divisive, primarily due to an unexpected shift in genre and the inclusion of unconventional or fantastical elements in its latter half. Many readers expressed disappointment, feeling the story veered into a bizarre or ridiculous direction that they were unprepared for, detracting from what started as a crime thriller. Another significant point of criticism revolved around the characters, who were frequently described as unlikable, weird, emotionally damaged, or too distant to evoke interest, with some missing the character development found in the author's other works. Additionally, some reviewers noted issues with the writing quality, including awkward phrasing, repetitive descriptions, and pacing problems, while others found the central mystery too predictable, identifying the culprit early on.

Overall, "Moon Music" stands out as a departure from Faye Kellerman's more established series, receiving a decidedly mixed reception. It is best suited for readers who are open to a crime novel that incorporates strong elements of the fantastical or paranormal and enjoy a darker, more unconventional narrative style. Those who appreciate a unique blend of suspense and mystique set against a vivid backdrop, and are not deterred by morally ambiguous or troubled characters, might find this book appealing. Conversely, readers expecting a straightforward, traditional crime mystery with well-developed, relatable characters and a conventional resolution, especially fans of her Peter Decker series, may find themselves disappointed by its distinctive and often polarizing direction.