The Moment You Know, authored by D.E. Daniel, is a richly woven tapestry of human emotions capturing the profound impacts of love, loss, and self-discovery. Through the life of its protagonist, Ellie, Daniel invites readers into a story that is not only deeply personal but also universally resonant.

The novel opens with Ellie facing a series of life-altering events that thrust her into a journey of self-reflection and transformation. Recent widowhood and the discovery of a personal betrayal set the stage for her emotional voyage. Daniel expertly crafts Ellie's initial despair with such authenticity that it is almost palpable. The strength of the narrative lies not just in the description of these events, but in its exploration of Ellie's response to them. It's a poignant reminder of how pivotal moments can redefine our lives.

As the story unfolds, Ellie's journey takes her from the familiarity of her home in the United States to the unfamiliar landscapes of Europe—a symbolic manifestation of her internal journey from the known to the unknown. Here, Daniel’s descriptive prowess shines as she paints each European setting with vivid brushstrokes, making locales like the rustic French villages and the bustling streets of Rome come alive. Each setting is not just a backdrop but an active participant in Ellie’s journey, reflecting her inner turmoil and eventual healing.

One of the novel’s strongest points is its character development. Ellie is a relatable protagonist whose evolution is both believable and inspiring. Each character she encounters contributes to her journey in significant ways, whether it's the charming yet mysterious art collector in Paris or the old school friend she reconnects with in Italy. These characters are well fleshed out, with their own layers and complexities, adding depth to the narrative. The dialogues are crisp and carry the emotional weight of the scenes effectively, capturing the nuances of each interaction.

Another compelling aspect of The Moment You Know is its exploration of themes such as the nature of grief and the process of healing. Daniel handles these subjects deftly, avoiding cliches. Instead, she offers nuanced observations about the way grief can shape us, often dwelling on the subtle shifts in Ellie’s perceptions and interactions. The narrative doesn't rush Ellie’s healing process, which adds an element of realism to the story. It’s a refreshing take in a literary world where characters often overcome significant obstacles without the realistic portrayal of time and struggle.

The writing style of D.E. Daniel is both lyrical and accessible, balancing beautiful prose with an engaging narrative pace. Her ability to weave philosophical insights about life and relationships seamlessly into the dialogue and prose enriches the reading experience. There’s a philosophical undertone to the book which prompts readers to reflect on their own 'moments' of realization and change.

However, no novel is without its shortcomings. At times, the pacing feels uneven, especially in the middle section where Ellie’s introspections might seem prolonged for some readers. Furthermore, while the use of European settings is generally effective, there are moments where the environmental descriptions threaten to overshadow the emotional developments of the story. This is a minor critique, however, in an otherwise captivating narrative.

The book culminates in a powerful ending that feels both earned and hopeful. The climax ties together the main themes succinctly, and readers are left with a sense of closure for Ellie’s story while also contemplating the ongoing nature of life's journey. It's an ending that strikes the perfect balance between resolution and open-endedness, prompting a lingering contemplation that is the hallmark of any great book.

In conclusion, The Moment You Know by D.E. Daniel is a compelling portrait of a woman's journey through grief to self-discovery. It combines beautiful prose, well-crafted characters, and thoughtful explorations of life’s significant questions. This novel is likely to appeal to those who appreciate stories of personal transformation and narratives that delve deeply into the heart of human emotional experiences. While the pacing may be slow for some, the overall journey is enriching and affirmatively life-affirming, making it a recommended read for those who find beauty in the resilience of the human spirit.