Step into the enchanting world of Daughters of the Moon, where five teenage girls in Los Angeles wield extraordinary powers under the glow of the moon! This 13-book young adult fantasy series by Lynne Ewing blends Greek mythology, supernatural thrills, and the messy beauty of adolescence. With a vibrant urban setting and a cast of fierce heroines, it’s a hidden gem that captures the heart of anyone craving a magical coming-of-age tale.
From battling an ancient evil to navigating high school crushes, the Daughters of the Moon series offers a spellbinding mix of action, romance, and self-discovery. Whether you’re drawn to tales of destiny or just love a good supernatural adventure, this series is your ticket to an unforgettable ride.
How Daughters of the Moon Began
Lynne Ewing, an American author and screenwriter, launched Daughters of the Moon in 2000 with *Goddess of the Night*. Known for her work with troubled teens and her knack for crafting relatable young adult stories, Ewing drew inspiration from Greek mythology, particularly the moon goddess Selene. Her goal? To create a series that empowered young readers through strong female characters facing cosmic challenges. Set in the gritty yet glamorous backdrop of Los Angeles, the series reflects Ewing’s love for blending real-world struggles with fantastical elements.
Ewing’s diverse background—growing up across multiple countries and counseling teens—infused the series with authentic voices and emotional depth. Her ability to weave mythology into modern settings made Daughters of the Moon a standout in the early 2000s YA fantasy boom.
The Heart of Daughters of the Moon
The series follows five girls—Vanessa, Catty, Serena, Jimena, and later Tianna—each gifted with unique powers tied to Selene. In *Goddess of the Night*, Vanessa discovers her ability to become invisible, but struggles to control it while dodging a mysterious stalker. *Into the Cold Fire* dives into Serena’s mind-reading gift, tempting her with the dark allure of the evil Atrox. *Night Shade* explores Jimena’s premonitions as she confronts her ex-boyfriend Veto, who may have made a deadly bargain. By *The Talisman*, readers uncover mentor Maggie’s ancient past, deepening the series’ mythological roots.
At its core, Daughters of the Moon tackles themes of identity, choice, and destiny. Each girl faces a pivotal decision at 17: ascend to a higher existence or remain mortal, losing their powers and memories. This high-stakes choice, paired with battles against the Atrox—an ancient evil seeking to unleash chaos—creates a gripping narrative. The Los Angeles setting, with its neon-lit streets and hidden supernatural realms, adds an urban fantasy flair, while Ewing’s fast-paced prose keeps readers hooked.
The series’ strength lies in its diverse heroines, each with distinct struggles—Vanessa’s fear of exposure, Serena’s temptation by darkness, or Jimena’s past as a gang member. These personal battles, woven with romance and friendship, make the series relatable and empowering, especially for young women navigating their own paths.
Why Daughters of the Moon Resonates
Though not as widely known as other YA fantasy giants, Daughters of the Moon carved a niche with its bold female leads and mythological depth. Fans on platforms like Goodreads praise its nostalgic 2000s vibe, fast-paced action, and emotional stakes. The series’ focus on empowerment and self-discovery resonated with teens, particularly those drawn to stories of sisterhood and resilience. Its companion series, *Sons of the Dark*, expanded Ewing’s universe, but Daughters remains the heart of her legacy.
Today, the series retains a cult following, with readers rediscovering its magic through used bookstores or eBay bundles. Its blend of mythology and modern struggles feels timeless, inviting new generations to explore its lunar-powered world.
- Publication Years: 2000–2007
- Number of Books: 13
- Author: Lynne Ewing
- Setting: Los Angeles, California
Grab *Goddess of the Night* and dive into Daughters of the Moon’s spellbinding world of fantasy, friendship, and fearless heroines!