The Moon Pool
"On the island of Ponape in the South Pacific, the cold light of a full moon washes over the crumbling ruins of an ancient, vanished civilization. Unleashed from the depths is the Dweller, a glittering, enigmatic force of monstrous terror and radiant beauty that stalks the South Pacific, claiming all in its path. An inter-national expedition led by American Walter Goodwin races to save those who have fallen victim to the Dweller. The dark mystery behind the malevolent force is Muria, a forgotten, mythic world deep within the earth that is home to a legendary people intent on reclaiming what was theirs long ago. This commemorative edition of The Moon Pool features an introduction by Robert Silverberg, a review of the first edition, and a glossary of the Murian language."--BOOK JACKET.
The Moon Pool is the first novel in a two-book series, followed by The Metal Monster. While it introduces a complete adventure, the overarching mythology and some character arcs continue into the second volume.
The Moon Pool is considered one of A. Merritt's most iconic works and established many of the themes and stylistic elements that would define his later fantasy and science fiction novels, such as ancient civilizations, lost worlds, and mystical powers. It showcases his distinctive blend of adventure, horror, and poetic prose.