I was hooked from the cover and description, it had that element that I was looking for. It uses the prehistoric Europe element and that the historical feel worked overall. The characters had that feel that I was looking for and enjoyed how they were written. Emily Jones has a strong writing style and was glad I got to read this.

Thanks to NetGalley and Holiday House for ARC of this book!

The first thing to catch my interest when looking at Nahia was the interesting cover, but what really made me what to read it was the Author's archaeological background. What kind of fiction book would an archaeologist write? Would their background lend a hand to the story in an interesting way? Would I be able to pick it out if it is there?

I'm happy to say that it was exactly what I was hoping for. I'm a huge fan of "sneaking in" learning while reading something for fun -- because, for 1, I don't always pick up non-fiction books for pleasure, and 2, I like to learn casually. Also, being a middle school librarian, I know how important it is to sneak in learning under the guise of fun because... well... middle schoolers.

The beginning of Nahia really highlights what life could have been like from day-to-day in the Mesolithic-Neolithic transition. I found myself nodding when reading about the hunter and gatherer tasks, what the band ate, their summer and winter camps, and lots of other things that I remember learning in my anthropology courses in college. Emily Jones did a great job setting up the story and teaching about the realities of these people's lives at the same time. Even though the extent of my learning was focused the Americas, I felt that a lot of Nahia could've been somewhat interchangeable despite it clearly being European, which I enjoyed a lot since it reminded me of what I already knew.

I felt that the spiritual journeys were interesting, if a little confusing, but that is the nature of drug induced hallucinations. I believe that Jones does a good job of describing the spiritual journeys in a way that feels magical to Nahia (based on what she knows about her world), to help us readers in the modern world see why her trips would feel so powerful, as we in modern times know what's going on and she does not.

I enjoyed that the ending was <spoiler> pragmatic, because it made the entire thing feel so much more real. Nahia's decisions at the end were what I would've expected from her, and I breathed a sigh of relief when she didn't go 'guns a'blazin' and blow up everything just before the end. She was pragmatic throughout, thank goodness. </spoiler>

Lastly, after the story ends, Jones includes more information about her decision making for Nahia and extra information about the time period -- which is always a huge plus for me! Yay, learning! I haven't read many fiction books about Mesolithic/Neolithic peoples, so including further background information about them and other sources for nerds like me who love anthropology was extra sweet.

This is a book that I would love to have on our shelves for the 8th graders to teach them more about a time period that is only touched on so briefly in their history classes. It really puts you in the shoes of a naturalist whose entire life is the world around her, watching as the wave of change comes crashing down. But, the attempted SA makes me think this book is more geared towards high school, though, so I'll only be singing its praises to the high school librarians! And buying a copy for my shelf at home. :]

Thank you Netgalley and Holiday House for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Set against the rich, rugged backdrop of prehistoric times, “Nahia” by archaeologist Emily Jones is a captivating upper YA historical book that takes readers on a journey through the Mesolithic-Neolithic transition. This unique setting, rarely explored in fiction, is a refreshing departure from typical historical stories, as Jones meticulously weaves cultural, spiritual, and environmental details of the era into a powerful coming-of-age story. I really enjoyed the blend of spiritual elements and the unique culture of the time throughout the book. Before going into the review, I do want to note that this is an upper YA book and there is a scene with attempted SA, so younger readers may not want to pursue this book. I do, however, recommend this book for fans of historical fantasy with supernatural elements.

At its heart, “Nahia” is the story of a young woman torn between tradition and her burgeoning individuality. As the daughter of her tribe's headwoman, Nahia has long felt the weight of expectations. However, when she speaks out against a looming threat from foreign invaders, she faces exile and is cast out by her own people. Forced into a new path, Nahia apprentices under Eneko, a young shaman, and discovers not only her own shamanic abilities but also the potential to challenge the norms that bind her. Jones portrays Nahia’s spiritual journey with depth, capturing her growth as she learns to define herself beyond her mother's approval, which may make her relatable to readers. The main focus of this book is on Nahia’s spiritual growth and self-actualization, though there are elements of romance as well as a unique exploration of Nahia’s relationship with her twin sister.

Jones’s experience as an archaeologist is evident in the world-building, which shines with details of prehistoric culture, flora, and the natural landscapes of the setting. The story balances a complex examination of spiritual identity and cultural resilience with Nahia’s personal growth, particularly her complicated relationships. Though her bond with Eneko shifts into romance, it remains a subtle aspect, taking a backseat to her evolving self-identity and her relationship with her twin sister.

While the historical and spiritual elements make for an engaging read, the pacing was a bit slow at times, mainly in the second half where the story shifts to focus on themes of colonization and cultural preservation. Yet, for those who appreciate immersive historical narratives and introspective journeys, Nahia offers a nuanced exploration of adaptation and survival. There is also a detailed and informative author’s note at the end that provides information about the Mesolithic-Neolithic transition, particularly with the history, culture, plants and more, which I appreciated as this note helped me learn more about Nahia and her culture.

Overall, “Nahia” is a beautifully crafted and informative work that delves into an ancient world of complex relationships, both human and spiritual. It’s a must-read for those who enjoy historical fiction with a strong female protagonist and unique setting. While I normally don’t enjoy historical fiction, Jones made this story extremely engaging, especially in exploring the supernatural elements. With a satisfying conclusion, “Nahia” marks a promising debut for Jones, and I definitely can’t wait to read more from Jones.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher.

I went into this book not knowing precisely what to expect. So much historical fiction takes place in time periods that we - the western world - already know quite a bit about (WWII, Victorian England, etc.) and while I do enjoy stories set in those periods, there is something absolutely refreshing about a story set in a time and place that almost NO other fiction story is, as is the case here.

This is a story about a young woman, Nahia, who lives in Spain around 6,000 B.C. It's clear the author did a tremendous amount of research to prepare, and it shows in the incredibly detailed world-building. When Nahia discovers something that her mother - the head of her tribe - does not want known, she is treated as an outcast, banished from her tribe, and forced to rely on the good graces of a young shaman/spiritual leader named Eneko. The majority of the story covers her journey to accept herself in a shamanic role and her efforts to help her family and friends in the tribe that she still cares about.

This story earns major credit for being set in such a unique time and place and clearly supported by deep periodic research, but truthfully, it was hard to keep reading at certain points. It's possible that this story was just not as much for me, but I found myself skimming large sections of the second half, and could not remain as interested. The prose is clean but also, in a way, somewhat dry, and full of extraneous details. The pacing was consistent, but it felt as though not much of any consequence happened, outside of a few key scenes. The romance was incredibly tepid, and I didn't even know it existed (or was meant to exist) until it was more or less over.

Those who enjoy historical fiction set in unique time periods should absolutely give this one a try, and I will likely check out other works by this author, but this one simply wasn't for me, though I do appreciate the opportunity to read and review.

3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.