Review of The Ghost Moth

[Anu Anand]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Ghost Moth" by Leslie Garland.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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“The Ghost Moth: A Red Grouse Tale” by Leslie Garland is a book inspired by a chilling experience shared by one of the author’s friends, Joe, during their monthly meetups at the Red Grouse inn. Joe’s wife, Elizabeth, had gifted him a book called The Ghost Moth, which is set during the Reformation era. The story is about a young priest named Adam Callow, who is torn between his love for a woman named Eve Lilith and his commitment to the Church.

Intrigued by the book’s settings, Joe, Elizabeth, and their son, Harry, visit the eerie location depicted on the book cover: a bizarre-looking tree with a cave hidden in its head-shaped roots. Unsettling things begin to happen when Harry enters the cave despite his mother's warning. After returning home, Harry starts feeling unwell and says he saw a beautiful woman in the cave, wearing a golden dress, who is calling for him, just like the one in the book. Joe begins to notice some eerie similarities between the story and their own experience. What could be the connection between the things happening to Joe’s family and the historical events in the book?

The book was very engaging. I got to know more about Christian beliefs and texts. The key point discussed in the book is how the Church, during the Reformation era, had often associated celibacy with being closer to God, which created negative views on women, marriage, and sexuality. The book also discusses how the teachings of the founding fathers of the Christian Church, such as Saint Paul, Saint Augustine, and Saint Jerome, have often been misinterpreted by their followers. The author provides references from original religious texts, like the Book of Genesis and Confessions, and explains what they might have originally meant and how people have misunderstood these concepts over time.

My favorite characters in this book are Brother La Roche and Novice Brother Michael Venn. Their debates on topics like celibacy, the Church’s view on sexuality, and the way women were often seen as temptations or even accused of witchcraft were very thought-provoking and insightful. The author maintained a respectful tone and balanced both sides while discussing these controversial topics.

Even though the central theme of the book is Christianity, it encourages critical thinking rather than simply presenting traditional views. I liked how the author made sure that wrongdoings in the name of religion are also a crime. I enjoyed the discussion in the book despite not being a Christian myself, so I think this book could be enjoyed by anyone regardless of their background.

Overall, I rate this book 5 out of 5, and there is nothing I dislike about this book. It was very engaging and thought-provoking. The editing of this book was done impeccably; I could only find three errors in it. Also, the book is more suitable for adult readers because it includes mature themes and graphic descriptions of violence.

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The Ghost Moth
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[Priya Murugesan]

A very intriguing plot. I would love to read about Adam and know more about his dilemma. Thanks for your awesome review, Anu!

[Mark Lazarus]

The mix of historical fiction, eerie supernatural elements, and thought-provoking discussions on religion sounds really intriguing. I like that it encourages critical thinking and presents different perspectives without being dismissive. It seems like a powerful read for anyone who enjoys stories that challenge conventional beliefs.

[Amy Luman]

This is really terrifying. It’s hard for me to believe, really believe, any of this. Joe experienced any consequences for his behavior and i think that I want to see where this goes. Thanks!

[The Keeper Jr]

Interesting story! I would love to read this book soon. If a non-Christian can enjoy reading this book, then I'm definitely gonna try it. Good job on the review!

[Arshadq]

The story seems very intriguing, and the family's story is one that I could someday read. Although I'm not a Christian myself, I would still be open to reading a book that has Christian teachings in it. Great review!

[Gerry Steen]

This is a book for me. I enjoy reading historical fiction novels that are thought-provoking. I am glad that this book, which covers the topic of Christian history, is one that encourages critical thinking. I am adding this book to my bookshelves. Thank you for reviewing this book.

[Stephen Christopher 1]

Hi Anu, I was going to pass on this book as it sounded too religious. However, as you're not a Christian and neither am I, yet you enjoyed the discussion, I'm interested again, as the story sounds interesting.

[Julie Marie Basil]

This is a very well-written review and it leaves me very interested to find out more about this story. I think it speaks well of the author's writing abilities that you were able to enjoy this book with strong Christian themes despite not being of the Christian faith.

[Elavarasi Charles]

The holy texts come with as many interpretations as the number of readers. The author seems to be addressing the issues that are brought by such misinterpretations and resultant misguidings, especially against the welfare of women. Doing that with the help of an interesting thriller plot makes me want to grab a copy. Thanks for such an interesting review!

[Seetha E]

I would love to read this book. I appreciate that it highlights how religious texts are often misinterpreted and propagated. It is possibly because it suits some groups within that time frame, but in the long run, it does more harm to the religion, followers, and their faith, and society in general, creating unnecessary unrest. I would love to read and review this book. I appreciate your detailed review. Thank you @Anu Anand