I started writing this review as soon as I finished Forest of Souls but I decided to sleep on it- because I was a) confused, and b) torn between a rating. In the end I have to give it a 4/5, leaning towards a 3.9.

The first thing I have to say is that this was a beautiful and enchanting book. It read like a carefully crafted fairy tale that wrapped its vines so tight around you that you just had to finish it. The world-building was lush and on point, and the overall plot was very intriguing. I was fully prepared to fall hard for this book, and I did, for the most part.

Just a few things fell flat for me:

- after about 100 pages...it felt like not a whole lot happened. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed reading about Sirscha and Saengo reading books and roaming around, but it just felt very tame for about 200 pages.

- some characters motives could have been alluded to or explained in a better manner. The plot twists and the 'secret motives for the big bad's felt a bit lackluster.

- there were times I really was hoping that Sirscha would connect the dots (for example, she notices a detail earlier in the book. Later when something is revealed,that was foreshadowed by that detail, she doesn't even acknowledge that clue and instead comes off as if it was a big surprise) ...if that makes sense?

Now for the things I loved:

- hecka strong and empowering female friendship that is so so so good (I really do love Sirscha and Saengo)

- a YA Fantasy novel that isn't bogged down with unnecessary romance

- Asian inspired world and characters (because I can't be the only one tired of the same old white Ya Fantasy)

- The Sisters (such a cool and well thought of concept, would have loved to see/learn more about them)



All in all, this book will be a hit and I guarantee many readers will fall in love with it.

Well done to Lori M. Lee, I look forward to reading your other works that are to come.

I really loved this book! I hate that I read it so fast and now its over. This book was on the top of my reading list for the year and it did not disappoint. The plot was super interesting and I know the teens at my library will love this book. I will be purchasing this book for my libraries YA collection.