3.5. stars rounded up. Overall, I enjoyed this middle grade novel set in Nova Scotia that incorporates horseback riding, friendship, history, and Mi'kmaq legend. Twelve-year-old Aislinn expects to have the best summer ever at Summerwood camp with her friend Jill and her favourite horse Firefly. But it's not long before things aren't going as planned. Jill is distracted by a boy and Aislinn's competitiveness annoys her fellow campers. But things get even worse when Aislinn starts seeing things no one else does and she learns that Summmerwood is to be sold to a developer.
There is a lot going on in this book, but the portrayal of the the kids and their interactions was what I liked best. I also enjoyed the spiritual elements, and how they were treated as real. The developer storyline was the weakest aspect and the resolution pretty unbelievable. For the most part, the incorporation of indigenous characters and lore appeared to be done with some sensitivity; I just wish the most engaging storyline didn't also have a whiff as white saviourism. Thanks to Netgalley and Nimbus Publishing for the advanced copy

I am so excited to write a review for Spirit of Summerwood! It brought back many childhood memories with horses and riding, even the descriptions of barn & horse smells from the mind of a horse lover was perfectly described. I always enjoy an exciting mysterious element to any book too.
I couldn’t put it down, I wanted to constantly read and find out what happens next. It’s a fantastic read for any horse lover out there that needs a twist of spooky as well.
I hope Vivien writes more like this as I’m absolutely hooked and anxious for more