Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.

Book: Forest of Souls

Author: Lori M. Lee

Book Series: Shamanborn Book 1

Rating: 5/5

Diversity: Southeast-Asian inspired characters and setting!

Recommended For...: fantasy, southeast Asian ownvoice, magic

Publication Date: June 23, 2020

Genre: YA Fantasy

Recommended Age: 16+ (spiders, violence, gore)

Publisher: Page Street Kids

Pages: 400

Synopsis: Sirscha Ashwyn comes from nothing, but she’s intent on becoming something. After years of training to become the queen’s next royal spy, her plans are derailed when shamans attack and kill her best friend Saengo.

And then Sirscha, somehow, restores Saengo to life.

Unveiled as the first soulguide in living memory, Sirscha is summoned to the domain of the Spider King. For centuries, he has used his influence over the Dead Wood—an ancient forest possessed by souls—to enforce peace between the kingdoms. Now, with the trees growing wild and untamed, only a soulguide can restrain them. As war looms, Sirscha must master her newly awakened abilities before the trees shatter the brittle peace, or worse, claim Saengo, the friend she would die for.

Review: Overall I thought this book was really well done! The characters were well developed and I adored Sirscha and Saengo’s relationship. I thought the writing was well done and the setting and world building was amazing. I also thought the plot, in particular the problem Sirscha encounters, was very unique in terms of what I’ve read before. It was action packed and easily one of my favorite YA high fantasy novels.

However, I did think that beginning was a little slow (but well crafted) and I’d be lying if I didn’t say that I didn’t want Saengo and Sirscha to be more than friends, but they’re very well suited to be sisters of heart in this novel.

Verdict: Highly recommend!