Water Moon

A Novel

By: Samantha Sotto Yambao

Narrated by: Cindy Kay

A woman inherits a pawnshop where you can sell your regrets, and then embarks on a magical quest when a charming young physicist wanders into the shop, in this dreamlike fantasy novel.

“Race through a lush world of pure wonder and romance—kites made of wishes that become stars, origami that holds time in its folds, and a night market in the clouds—in this lovely, cozy fantasy reminiscent of Erin Morgenstern's The Starless Sea.”—Booklist (starred review)

On a backstreet in Tokyo lies a pawnshop, but not everyone can find it. Most will see a cozy ramen restaurant. And only the chosen ones—those who are lost—will find a place to pawn their life choices and deepest regrets.

Hana Ishikawa wakes on her first morning as the pawnshop’s new owner to find it ransacked, the shop’s most precious acquisition stolen, and her father missing. And then into the shop stumbles a charming stranger, quite unlike its other customers, for he offers help instead of seeking it.

Together, they must journey through a mystical world to find Hana’s father and the stolen choice—by way of rain puddles, rides on paper cranes, the bridge between midnight and morning, and a night market in the clouds.

But as they get closer to the truth, Hana must reveal a secret of her own—and risk making a choice that she will never be able to take back.

“Highly recommended . . . Readers who have been swept up in the cozy charm of Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi and The Dallergut Dream Department Store by Miye Lee will fall hard for the mix of magical realism, fantasy mystery, and star-crossed romance.”—Library Journal (starred review)

©2024 Samantha Sotto Yambao (P)2024 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

“This new, soft fantasy is the perfect companion to a fuzzy blanket and a comfortable chair: enter a delightful (but still dangerous) world of paper-lantern wishes and origami secrets.”—Book Riot

“Sotto Yambao’s inventive setting pushes the limits of common fantasy tropes, and her thought-provoking exploration of regret, choice, and free will resonates. This whimsical tale will have readers riveted.”—Publishers Weekly

“Race through a lush world of pure wonder and romance—kites made of wishes that become stars, origami that holds time in its folds, and a night market in the clouds—in this lovely, cozy fantasy reminiscent of Erin Morgenstern’s The Starless Sea.”—Booklist, starred review

Beautiful prose, immersive fantasy

While it wasn't terribly exciting, the fantasy had a feverdream quality I enjoyed. The mysterious plot kept me engaged as did the subtle personality and illusive motivations of Hanna. I found it as Imaginative, delicate and bittersweet as a small batch perfume.

Thoughtful meets Creative

The imagination that went into this book is amazing! My visualization of the story definitely developed in my mind as Miyazaki style characters.

The narrator is a little monotone. But I think the characters like Hanna's father are meant to be that way. I do feel like there could have been a little more excitement to her tone though at some points.

I think I would have given this 5 stars if it was just an adventure-mystery book.

Favorite book

Beautiful, magical, heart warming, and still full of twists. It was like navigating a dream. I absolutely loved this book.

Sooo good!

This book is so creatively written that it keeps the reader/listener completely engaged! A must read and even if you don’t love fantasy stories, which would be me, this story line is so interesting and simply fun!

Relationship centered with mythical beings.

Smooth listen full of messages heard by the keen ear. Intrigued by the voice and fluid read.

solid listen

the uniqueness of the story line and world building was good. glad it was a bookclub pick

Dreamy, story-world adventure!

Beautiful, imaginative novel. I felt transported to a Spirited Away-like dream world just on the other side of waking.

Delightful and Thoughtful

Beautifully written and wonderfully told. Very fun escapism. I loved it. Many metaphors and many layers of love to unfold. Highly recommend.

Folding time and the gift of Choice

I am new to reading fiction and I thoroughly enjoyed this book though towards the end it seemed to be rushed but somehow still dragged along. The themes that run through the book were thought-provoking while also being relatable.

One of the best books I've ever read!

From the very beginning to the very end, this story captured my heart and still won't let it go. It's best if you go in knowing as little as possible. Then you can experience the magic of this book for yourself.