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Threads of the World Tree #1
Sunderroot
Magic runs through the roots of the Earth. It always has.
Thirteen-year-old Aria Renwood has never belonged anywhere, with her family unknown and the city itself a stranger. When she is pulled from her life in York to a hidden academy deep in Sweden’s ancient forests, everything changes and Aria couldn’t help but feel a spark of excitement at the adventure ahead. Built by Norse mages, Oakspire Academy stands in a land where forest spirits whisper and vaesen roam.
Here, Aria discovers the magic isn’t just real – it’s alive.
And it’s dying.
Nature itself has chosen her, but her powers refuse to be tamed. As shadows rise and the balance of the natural world breaks, Aria must decide whether to run from the destiny that terrifies her or fight for the first home she’s ever known.
The roots are stirring. And Aria is at the heart of it.
Thirteen-year-old Aria Renwood has never belonged anywhere, with her family unknown and the city itself a stranger. When she is pulled from her life in York to a hidden academy deep in Sweden’s ancient forests, everything changes and Aria couldn’t help but feel a spark of excitement at the adventure ahead. Built by Norse mages, Oakspire Academy stands in a land where forest spirits whisper and vaesen roam.
Here, Aria discovers the magic isn’t just real – it’s alive.
And it’s dying.
Nature itself has chosen her, but her powers refuse to be tamed. As shadows rise and the balance of the natural world breaks, Aria must decide whether to run from the destiny that terrifies her or fight for the first home she’s ever known.
The roots are stirring. And Aria is at the heart of it.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 19, 2026
6 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Christina Juhlin
1 book4 followersChristina Juhlin (they/them) is a Swedish-Portuguese fantasy author debuting with Sunderroot, the first in the series Threads of the World Tree.
Their writing draws from their identity as a multicultural queer scientist and their passion for capturing the natural world through photography and visual art. With a master’s degree in conservation biology, Christina brings scientific authenticity into their fantasy worlds. They enjoy exploring themes of ecology, social injustice, while creating a vivid natural world to get lost into.
Christina lives in Sweden with their family. When not writing they enjoy nature photography, hiking and birdwatching.
Their writing draws from their identity as a multicultural queer scientist and their passion for capturing the natural world through photography and visual art. With a master’s degree in conservation biology, Christina brings scientific authenticity into their fantasy worlds. They enjoy exploring themes of ecology, social injustice, while creating a vivid natural world to get lost into.
Christina lives in Sweden with their family. When not writing they enjoy nature photography, hiking and birdwatching.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 18, 2026
Sunderroot is an interesting read that reminds me of a Harry Potter magical school setting and concept, but makes its own.
Aria is a wholesome main character that you easily find yourself cheering on and encouraging through her moments of doubt. She is also surrounded by her found group of friends that are easy to see why she was drawn to them, and how they help her to grow and branch out as the story progresses.
The story starts with a quick moment of unknown insight, and then you find yourself in a future moment in time. I’m interested to find out more about the timeline between those moments and Aria’s backstory and how she found herself in the orphanage.
I thoroughly enjoyed the diversity of characters and the Norse themes woven into the story line. The plot line of the story was easy to fall into, and after a somewhat slow start really kept me engaged in the story and invested in the troubles with the magic.
Overall, I highly enjoyed this book! I found myself eager to learn more about what comes next as I finished!
Thank you, author Christina Juhlin, for allowing me to read an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Aria is a wholesome main character that you easily find yourself cheering on and encouraging through her moments of doubt. She is also surrounded by her found group of friends that are easy to see why she was drawn to them, and how they help her to grow and branch out as the story progresses.
The story starts with a quick moment of unknown insight, and then you find yourself in a future moment in time. I’m interested to find out more about the timeline between those moments and Aria’s backstory and how she found herself in the orphanage.
I thoroughly enjoyed the diversity of characters and the Norse themes woven into the story line. The plot line of the story was easy to fall into, and after a somewhat slow start really kept me engaged in the story and invested in the troubles with the magic.
Overall, I highly enjoyed this book! I found myself eager to learn more about what comes next as I finished!
Thank you, author Christina Juhlin, for allowing me to read an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2026
This book is beautiful.
For me, the mark of a great Young Adult book is when it doesn’t read like it was written “for” a teenager. Christina Juhlin has created a story that works so completely, it is so engrossing and immersive and written with such care, it is truly a book of beautiful words.
The imagery is so lushly woven throughout the story, it feels like every single word was chosen with the utmost care, while the story and the plot flow so well that it seems as though each and every exquisite description of the natural world just fell into place with ease.
The talent to write in a way that is so rich with descriptive language, while progressing the story at the perfect tempo is staggering.
At its heart Sunderroot is a story about belonging, finding your place in the world, embracing yourself and choosing your own path to follow. The friendships and personal growth are utterly beautiful to read and experience.
Reading is something that gives me joy, be it as escapism, or information gathering, or seeing a real world issue through a different lens. There is so much renewed discourse about reading being political (it is.).
Sunderroot blends compassion, understanding, oppression and the idea that the lines between good and evil are more blurred than we realise.
I am absolutely in awe of this book.
For me, the mark of a great Young Adult book is when it doesn’t read like it was written “for” a teenager. Christina Juhlin has created a story that works so completely, it is so engrossing and immersive and written with such care, it is truly a book of beautiful words.
The imagery is so lushly woven throughout the story, it feels like every single word was chosen with the utmost care, while the story and the plot flow so well that it seems as though each and every exquisite description of the natural world just fell into place with ease.
The talent to write in a way that is so rich with descriptive language, while progressing the story at the perfect tempo is staggering.
At its heart Sunderroot is a story about belonging, finding your place in the world, embracing yourself and choosing your own path to follow. The friendships and personal growth are utterly beautiful to read and experience.
Reading is something that gives me joy, be it as escapism, or information gathering, or seeing a real world issue through a different lens. There is so much renewed discourse about reading being political (it is.).
Sunderroot blends compassion, understanding, oppression and the idea that the lines between good and evil are more blurred than we realise.
I am absolutely in awe of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you for the ARC!🎊
Sunderroot by Christina Juhlin is a story that follows Astria, a thirteen-year old orphan who has always known she was different. In a not-so-accidental way, she ends up being driven from what she knows to a new land and school with magic. She discovers her arrival has been predicted, and she's the chosen one. Chosen to do what she doesn't know, throw in bullies, existential crises, and a dangerous plot; her plate is quite full.
Aria's character was really written well. She was definitely depicted right, from being invisible to having a legacy hanging over her and magic she didn't understand. Her overwhelm, emotions and actions were justifiable. I enjoyed the fact that she had good friends who kind of latched on to her no matter how she tried to shake them off. They anchored her most of the time. One character I really loved was Taye. He was a burst of fresh air, even though he seemed so unserious.
I think there's a bit of uncharitable in whether the danger was passed or there's more to come. The ending felt a bit rushed. it left me with a question mark instead of a cliffhanger.
Also, extra applause to the author's diversity. They really did a good job in making the book rich in culture, gender and beliefs. It was done so seamlessly.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoyed Harry Potter or Percy Jackson or basically a fan of YAs. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what's next.
Sunderroot by Christina Juhlin is a story that follows Astria, a thirteen-year old orphan who has always known she was different. In a not-so-accidental way, she ends up being driven from what she knows to a new land and school with magic. She discovers her arrival has been predicted, and she's the chosen one. Chosen to do what she doesn't know, throw in bullies, existential crises, and a dangerous plot; her plate is quite full.
Aria's character was really written well. She was definitely depicted right, from being invisible to having a legacy hanging over her and magic she didn't understand. Her overwhelm, emotions and actions were justifiable. I enjoyed the fact that she had good friends who kind of latched on to her no matter how she tried to shake them off. They anchored her most of the time. One character I really loved was Taye. He was a burst of fresh air, even though he seemed so unserious.
I think there's a bit of uncharitable in whether the danger was passed or there's more to come. The ending felt a bit rushed. it left me with a question mark instead of a cliffhanger.
Also, extra applause to the author's diversity. They really did a good job in making the book rich in culture, gender and beliefs. It was done so seamlessly.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoyed Harry Potter or Percy Jackson or basically a fan of YAs. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what's next.
January 25, 2026
With my Nordic roots, my reverence for the natural world and my love of fantasy fiction, I was excited to read Sunderroot from the moment I started seeing posts about it.
And I was not disappointed!
Yes, it does start a wee bit slowly, but you can feel the story growing with every page, weaving the threads and compelling you to turn those pages to find out what….no spoilers in this review.
Aria is highly relatable as a protagonist and the rest of the characters add real depth to both her and the story.
If you look at the world’s flora and fauna and feel a sense of wonder at the majesty of nature, Sunderroot is a book you need to read. I cannot wait to read this series as it unfolds!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
And I was not disappointed!
Yes, it does start a wee bit slowly, but you can feel the story growing with every page, weaving the threads and compelling you to turn those pages to find out what….no spoilers in this review.
Aria is highly relatable as a protagonist and the rest of the characters add real depth to both her and the story.
If you look at the world’s flora and fauna and feel a sense of wonder at the majesty of nature, Sunderroot is a book you need to read. I cannot wait to read this series as it unfolds!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, thanks to the author for the ARC.
I wish I could give a higher rating. The story reminded me a lot of Harry Potter, an orphan who suddenly finds out she has magic powers and ends up in a magic school. But the mix with Nordic myths gave it a nice twitch, with the differences between mages and wizards and how their connection with magic works. I would like to know more about this world, its creatures and magical elements.
However, I feel the story jumps so much we don't really get to understand the main character, Aria, or her relationship with some of the characters.
The start at the academy is slow and the action happens in the last 100 pages, but at that point I already felt disconnected with the story.
Maybe a younger audience will enjoy more this book.
I wish I could give a higher rating. The story reminded me a lot of Harry Potter, an orphan who suddenly finds out she has magic powers and ends up in a magic school. But the mix with Nordic myths gave it a nice twitch, with the differences between mages and wizards and how their connection with magic works. I would like to know more about this world, its creatures and magical elements.
However, I feel the story jumps so much we don't really get to understand the main character, Aria, or her relationship with some of the characters.
The start at the academy is slow and the action happens in the last 100 pages, but at that point I already felt disconnected with the story.
Maybe a younger audience will enjoy more this book.
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January 25, 2026I received this book as an ARC
I have currently read 33% of the book and here are my though so far:
This book follow a very classic frame. Human child (orphan) discovere one day that they have magical power and then get sent to magic school.
Child is the "Chosen one". Child makes friends, learn magic, have to face bullies while the teachers are complicite with the bullying.
Honestly, everything in the story seems a bit predictable so far and I am also disapointed that things aren't more magical.
I might not finish this book since I am tired of reading stories with bullying. Especially when the adults do absolutly nothing to prevent it (I know adult are often as useless in real life, but I read stories to escape. Not to see real life like reactions)
I have currently read 33% of the book and here are my though so far:
This book follow a very classic frame. Human child (orphan) discovere one day that they have magical power and then get sent to magic school.
Child is the "Chosen one". Child makes friends, learn magic, have to face bullies while the teachers are complicite with the bullying.
Honestly, everything in the story seems a bit predictable so far and I am also disapointed that things aren't more magical.
I might not finish this book since I am tired of reading stories with bullying. Especially when the adults do absolutly nothing to prevent it (I know adult are often as useless in real life, but I read stories to escape. Not to see real life like reactions)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reading this book felt like sitting curled up by the fire with a warm cup of tea surrounded by your favourite people.
In other words: I loved reading this book and cannot wait for the second one.
I was immediately drawn in by the author's writing style. The attention to detail fully immerses you into the setting, without being overwhelming, as you discover this amazing world of magic alongside the main character.
It is a beautiful, beautiful story filled with interesting folklore and relateable characters.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review (and am so grateful I did!)
In other words: I loved reading this book and cannot wait for the second one.
I was immediately drawn in by the author's writing style. The attention to detail fully immerses you into the setting, without being overwhelming, as you discover this amazing world of magic alongside the main character.
It is a beautiful, beautiful story filled with interesting folklore and relateable characters.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review (and am so grateful I did!)
February 19, 2026
Sunderroot is a story about friendship, courage, and our connection to the natural world. It reminded me of why I really enjoy magical stories in the first place!
The characters, magic, norse mythology and a passion for the environment pop out of the pages. Hard to put the book down. Can't wait for book 2!
The characters, magic, norse mythology and a passion for the environment pop out of the pages. Hard to put the book down. Can't wait for book 2!
February 20, 2026
The lush descriptives of nature and emotion give this story a distinct gravitas.
Aria and her new-found friends and community are in a framework that will be familiar to any reader of British magic boarding school books.
The world Juhlin has created shifts the focus north to include Nordic mythology and the Scandinavian awe of nature. The teenage characters are distinctly of our time without spoiling the gentle respect their education holds for ancient and natural wisdom. There are original considerations and creative twists to the magical/fantasy canon that I hope to see in future installments of this series.
(This is a review of an Advanced Reader Copy. I’d like to thank Christina Juhlin for the privilege of reading her book early in exchange for an unbiased review!)
Aria and her new-found friends and community are in a framework that will be familiar to any reader of British magic boarding school books.
The world Juhlin has created shifts the focus north to include Nordic mythology and the Scandinavian awe of nature. The teenage characters are distinctly of our time without spoiling the gentle respect their education holds for ancient and natural wisdom. There are original considerations and creative twists to the magical/fantasy canon that I hope to see in future installments of this series.
(This is a review of an Advanced Reader Copy. I’d like to thank Christina Juhlin for the privilege of reading her book early in exchange for an unbiased review!)
Review of advance copy received from Author
rtc
Review of advance copy received from Author
A great YA read that reminds me of a Harry Potter world, with the discovery of magic and a magic school setting.
I hope to read more of Aria and this world in the future!
I hope to read more of Aria and this world in the future!
February 19, 2026
Descriptive, carefully spun world crafted by an inspired author who loves Norse Mythology and remembers what it was like to be young.
Plot: The plot is quite fast paced and linear, which makes it very easy to follow. Considering the target audiences, I think this book has a strong vibe of the novels/series you’d read in 2010s, which is nostalgic and I liked that. I had questioned a few plot points where it didn’t seem realistic to me, however I think they were necessary to make the plot spin into the right direction. I visualised this story as a 2D cartoon from the 90s, which made it fun and heartfelt, so I wonder if the author had envisioned the same thing.
Characters: Colourful, diverse, and most importantly unique cast of main and secondary heroes really moves the book forward, and the orphaned main character never quite feels alone within the story. I admire the fact that author went out of their way to get multiple different nationalities/ethnic backgrounds into the story, it was a very nice, thoughtful touch.
Setting: The story is modern, with magic imbued within the surrounding world and the main character attempting to understand it. It feels diverse, each character has a unique voice and speech style, and locations are almost familiar in a way – as if it is something that you have seen as a child, like the colourful uniforms and bushy forests and all larger-than-life personalities and their abilities, but you couldn’t quite put your finger on it.
Writing: A very sensory book – I was able to “feel” and “see” the world though the descriptions which were vivid, but not overwhelming or tedious. The language is also light and modern, and I can imagine it being someone’s first favourite fantasy book. Also, book is shamelessly pro-eco which I liked, and uses magical systems as a way to explain why it does so.
In conclusion,, the story is well written for the younger audiences, and I think I would have enjoyed reading it when I was 10-14 years old.
Plot: The plot is quite fast paced and linear, which makes it very easy to follow. Considering the target audiences, I think this book has a strong vibe of the novels/series you’d read in 2010s, which is nostalgic and I liked that. I had questioned a few plot points where it didn’t seem realistic to me, however I think they were necessary to make the plot spin into the right direction. I visualised this story as a 2D cartoon from the 90s, which made it fun and heartfelt, so I wonder if the author had envisioned the same thing.
Characters: Colourful, diverse, and most importantly unique cast of main and secondary heroes really moves the book forward, and the orphaned main character never quite feels alone within the story. I admire the fact that author went out of their way to get multiple different nationalities/ethnic backgrounds into the story, it was a very nice, thoughtful touch.
Setting: The story is modern, with magic imbued within the surrounding world and the main character attempting to understand it. It feels diverse, each character has a unique voice and speech style, and locations are almost familiar in a way – as if it is something that you have seen as a child, like the colourful uniforms and bushy forests and all larger-than-life personalities and their abilities, but you couldn’t quite put your finger on it.
Writing: A very sensory book – I was able to “feel” and “see” the world though the descriptions which were vivid, but not overwhelming or tedious. The language is also light and modern, and I can imagine it being someone’s first favourite fantasy book. Also, book is shamelessly pro-eco which I liked, and uses magical systems as a way to explain why it does so.
In conclusion,, the story is well written for the younger audiences, and I think I would have enjoyed reading it when I was 10-14 years old.
Review of advance copy received from Author
By Bragi, this is a story that the skálds of old would tell around the fire in the longhouse!
Sunderroot follows Aria through a magical version of the real world. A place where magic exists, is alive, and dying.
The way this book paints the crumbling state of magic as a mirror of the environmental decline in the real world is equal parts inspiring as it is scary. It captures how this process is both slow and hard to see, while at the same time all too quick and obvious.
What really had me bubbling with excitement was how things from Swedish customs and Norse mythology were woven into the story in such a natural way and did not feel tacked on or shoehorned in. To make these aspects, especially the Norse ones, feel like they belonged in an otherwise modern and partly international setting (disregarding the magical coating) was impressive. I felt something every time Odin was mentioned, or the völva, Fenrir, Freyr, the list goes on. Hidden gems were everywhere.
I must admit, the passages of kids bullying each other evoked some disturbing memories which caused a great sense of unease. Despite the fact that I was aware that this would be a part of the story before I read it, it was hard to ignore.
On the other hand, books are meant to make you feel, and it did allow me to relate more with the main character and her friends.
I found the pacing of the story excellent. There were several longer jumps in time, weeks/months at a time. However I never felt like I missed something in those jumps or that important events were skipped. Rather it felt like a natural progression and an important way to keep up the cadence.
Over all, this book was a joy to read. For anyone looking for a YA fantasy, with a sense of environmental urgency and a sprinkling of Norse mythology, this one's for you.
Sunderroot follows Aria through a magical version of the real world. A place where magic exists, is alive, and dying.
The way this book paints the crumbling state of magic as a mirror of the environmental decline in the real world is equal parts inspiring as it is scary. It captures how this process is both slow and hard to see, while at the same time all too quick and obvious.
What really had me bubbling with excitement was how things from Swedish customs and Norse mythology were woven into the story in such a natural way and did not feel tacked on or shoehorned in. To make these aspects, especially the Norse ones, feel like they belonged in an otherwise modern and partly international setting (disregarding the magical coating) was impressive. I felt something every time Odin was mentioned, or the völva, Fenrir, Freyr, the list goes on. Hidden gems were everywhere.
I must admit, the passages of kids bullying each other evoked some disturbing memories which caused a great sense of unease. Despite the fact that I was aware that this would be a part of the story before I read it, it was hard to ignore.
On the other hand, books are meant to make you feel, and it did allow me to relate more with the main character and her friends.
I found the pacing of the story excellent. There were several longer jumps in time, weeks/months at a time. However I never felt like I missed something in those jumps or that important events were skipped. Rather it felt like a natural progression and an important way to keep up the cadence.
Over all, this book was a joy to read. For anyone looking for a YA fantasy, with a sense of environmental urgency and a sprinkling of Norse mythology, this one's for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
While I was very excited for this book I have to give it only 3 stars, or in this case, 3 white wolves.
This is the story of Aria an 11-year-old girl who lived in an orphanage. After much trauma and chaos at the orphanage, Aria is transported to a magical school. Here she makes new friends, meets magical creatures, learns all kinds of new skills, meets wonderful teachers with one teacher being a bit scary, and also learns a new sport. As Aria goes through her first year she, along with her new friends, solves the crisis that is causing magic to die. This is a story of personal growth, strength, and a reminder to never give up.
I did love the description of the nature all around her as well as the way the author wrote. I did feel as if I was truly there. It is a beautiful scenery for this amazing school.
However, why I give it 3 stars is that is too closely parallels another magical world which shall not be named yet over 90% of adults and children know about. I accept that with the books, movies, and a new show coming out it is impossible to NOT have some similarities to HP. Yet this author had just one too many similarities for me and the story became predictable.
Some of the similarities to that which shall not be named:
11-year-old child
Hard living situation in the real world
Magical accidents in the real world
Magical transport to a new land
A magical school
A kind nature/animal caretaker
A new sport involving being up in the air
Mean trio of students with one leader and two followers
A world shattering crisis that only the main character can solve
AND MORE...
Is it a sweet magical story with a beautiful setting? Yes. It just did not hold my attention as I started to predict where it was going and where it would end.
I received a free copy of this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the story of Aria an 11-year-old girl who lived in an orphanage. After much trauma and chaos at the orphanage, Aria is transported to a magical school. Here she makes new friends, meets magical creatures, learns all kinds of new skills, meets wonderful teachers with one teacher being a bit scary, and also learns a new sport. As Aria goes through her first year she, along with her new friends, solves the crisis that is causing magic to die. This is a story of personal growth, strength, and a reminder to never give up.
I did love the description of the nature all around her as well as the way the author wrote. I did feel as if I was truly there. It is a beautiful scenery for this amazing school.
However, why I give it 3 stars is that is too closely parallels another magical world which shall not be named yet over 90% of adults and children know about. I accept that with the books, movies, and a new show coming out it is impossible to NOT have some similarities to HP. Yet this author had just one too many similarities for me and the story became predictable.
Some of the similarities to that which shall not be named:
11-year-old child
Hard living situation in the real world
Magical accidents in the real world
Magical transport to a new land
A magical school
A kind nature/animal caretaker
A new sport involving being up in the air
Mean trio of students with one leader and two followers
A world shattering crisis that only the main character can solve
AND MORE...
Is it a sweet magical story with a beautiful setting? Yes. It just did not hold my attention as I started to predict where it was going and where it would end.
I received a free copy of this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A girl with no real home is swept from her ordinary life into a hidden magical academy in the forests of Sweden, where magic is tied directly to the land itself... and that land is in trouble. What starts as an exciting escape quickly turns into something much heavier as Aria learns she’s connected to the fate of nature in ways she doesn’t fully understand.
This felt like a genuinely solid alternative to the magical school story-that-shall-not-be-named, and I love that it exists. It hits similar notes: secret academy, chosen one child, found family, but with meaningful diversity and a strong grounding in Norse folklore. If anyone is looking to heal their inner childhood fantasy reader without supporting JKR, this is honestly a great place to look.
That said, this definitely reads for a slightly younger audience than I usually gravitate toward, and I could feel that in the pacing. The first half leans heavily into introductions and settling into academy life, which isn’t bad, but it didn’t always hold my attention. The sporting event in particular didn’t really work for me and felt unnecessary. Then most of the real action hits in the final third, without quite the steady escalation I would’ve liked.
Still, I appreciated what the story was trying to do thematically. Themes of belonging, choosing your own path, and learning to care for something bigger than yourself landed well. The friendships and emotional beats are sweet, and the setting is genuinely lovely. Even when it didn’t fully grip me, I could see how this would be perfect for the right reader.
Overall, this is a cozy, nature-forward magical school story with strong themes and good characters. I’m really glad it exists.
Thanks to the author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
This felt like a genuinely solid alternative to the magical school story-that-shall-not-be-named, and I love that it exists. It hits similar notes: secret academy, chosen one child, found family, but with meaningful diversity and a strong grounding in Norse folklore. If anyone is looking to heal their inner childhood fantasy reader without supporting JKR, this is honestly a great place to look.
That said, this definitely reads for a slightly younger audience than I usually gravitate toward, and I could feel that in the pacing. The first half leans heavily into introductions and settling into academy life, which isn’t bad, but it didn’t always hold my attention. The sporting event in particular didn’t really work for me and felt unnecessary. Then most of the real action hits in the final third, without quite the steady escalation I would’ve liked.
Still, I appreciated what the story was trying to do thematically. Themes of belonging, choosing your own path, and learning to care for something bigger than yourself landed well. The friendships and emotional beats are sweet, and the setting is genuinely lovely. Even when it didn’t fully grip me, I could see how this would be perfect for the right reader.
Overall, this is a cozy, nature-forward magical school story with strong themes and good characters. I’m really glad it exists.
Thanks to the author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sunderroot is an evocative and exciting novel, with intriguing world-building that bridges a supernatural realm with a very real one. While the pace starts off rather slow, things slowly snowball out of control until Aria is forced to confront the issue head-on.
Right from the beginning I was rooting for Aria’s success—success in escaping the children’s home, success in finding her place at school, and success in saving her new home. Over the course of the book she meets a widely diverse array of friends, all from different places in the world. This book does not hold back when it comes to diversity, especially when discussing a character’s culture, skin tone, or gender identity, and that was a breath of fresh air.
There were very few things that took me out of the immersion. The primary one was the repeated mentions of “main character energy” in one scene—it read more like the author was having fun quoting a modern meme, than anything that actually fit in the story itself. Most uses of modern phrasing melded well with the story, but this one in particular felt as though the story was trying to poke fun at itself. But Sunderroot as a whole does not carry that same sense of self-ridiculing humor or “4th wall” breaking, so those phrases felt out of place.
Overall, I highly enjoyed this book! This book had the gears in my brain turning—what was causing the death of magic? Who was involved? I was rooting for the characters as they figured out the mystery while also navigating the mundane troubles of school life.
Thank you, author Christina Juhlin, for allowing me to read an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Right from the beginning I was rooting for Aria’s success—success in escaping the children’s home, success in finding her place at school, and success in saving her new home. Over the course of the book she meets a widely diverse array of friends, all from different places in the world. This book does not hold back when it comes to diversity, especially when discussing a character’s culture, skin tone, or gender identity, and that was a breath of fresh air.
There were very few things that took me out of the immersion. The primary one was the repeated mentions of “main character energy” in one scene—it read more like the author was having fun quoting a modern meme, than anything that actually fit in the story itself. Most uses of modern phrasing melded well with the story, but this one in particular felt as though the story was trying to poke fun at itself. But Sunderroot as a whole does not carry that same sense of self-ridiculing humor or “4th wall” breaking, so those phrases felt out of place.
Overall, I highly enjoyed this book! This book had the gears in my brain turning—what was causing the death of magic? Who was involved? I was rooting for the characters as they figured out the mystery while also navigating the mundane troubles of school life.
Thank you, author Christina Juhlin, for allowing me to read an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2026
Thank you to Christina Juhlin for gifting me a review copy! This has in no way influenced my reading experience.
When I requested for a review copy of this book, I was aware that I've outgrown the lower YA / upper middle grade books for quite a while now. Looking back, I am definitely not the intended audience for this book but gosh, the nostalgia that came flooding in reading the first few chapters hit me like a tsunami.
A fantastic read overall. Sunderroot is reminiscent of the fantasy books I used to read in the late 2000's and early 2010's. Specifically, it reminded me more of that particular series that must not be named. Orphan kid with unexplained abilities, magical school, bullies, chosen ones, and looming prophecies—it was hard not to compare it with the media that carved its own massive following in pop culture. If I've read Sunderroot back then as a kid, I have no doubt I'd be sooo obsessed with it!
What sets it apart from comparable titles is the ecology-based worldbuilding and how eco-conscious it all was. I don't want to get further political yet (my review draft has more context), so I'm just gonna say that I loved getting to know the magical flora and fauna (which also reminded me of Pokemon) and how it all ties back to their magic!
Full review to come soon because it's quite lengthy! I might have to trim a few things.
When I requested for a review copy of this book, I was aware that I've outgrown the lower YA / upper middle grade books for quite a while now. Looking back, I am definitely not the intended audience for this book but gosh, the nostalgia that came flooding in reading the first few chapters hit me like a tsunami.
A fantastic read overall. Sunderroot is reminiscent of the fantasy books I used to read in the late 2000's and early 2010's. Specifically, it reminded me more of that particular series that must not be named. Orphan kid with unexplained abilities, magical school, bullies, chosen ones, and looming prophecies—it was hard not to compare it with the media that carved its own massive following in pop culture. If I've read Sunderroot back then as a kid, I have no doubt I'd be sooo obsessed with it!
What sets it apart from comparable titles is the ecology-based worldbuilding and how eco-conscious it all was. I don't want to get further political yet (my review draft has more context), so I'm just gonna say that I loved getting to know the magical flora and fauna (which also reminded me of Pokemon) and how it all ties back to their magic!
Full review to come soon because it's quite lengthy! I might have to trim a few things.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read this as a 26yo and I am well aware that I am not the target audience for this YA book. Please take my review with a pinch of salt, I expect younger readers would enjoy this book more.
I liked the setting of the academy and magic system, and the over-arching plot was very intriguing, especially with the ties to climate change and global warming, I wish more was done with that tbh.
The world was very diverse; I was particularly impressed by the non-binary character who was introduced without any awful clunky explanation and the pronunciation guide at the beginning of the book.
My real issue was the main character, Aria. Without spoiling too much, she has one major problem which fills her with a huge amount of anxiety and she spends 90% of the book just worrying about the same thing without listening to any of the advice she's given (or doing anything) to fix it. I found her absolutely exhausting!
I received an advance review copy for free, thank you very much to the author.
I liked the setting of the academy and magic system, and the over-arching plot was very intriguing, especially with the ties to climate change and global warming, I wish more was done with that tbh.
The world was very diverse; I was particularly impressed by the non-binary character who was introduced without any awful clunky explanation and the pronunciation guide at the beginning of the book.
My real issue was the main character, Aria. Without spoiling too much, she has one major problem which fills her with a huge amount of anxiety and she spends 90% of the book just worrying about the same thing without listening to any of the advice she's given (or doing anything) to fix it. I found her absolutely exhausting!
I received an advance review copy for free, thank you very much to the author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sunderroot is a gripping fantasy that blends dark magic, intrigue, and personal discovery into a fast-paced, immersive tale. Christina Juhlin creates a world that is atmospheric, detailed, and alive, with magic systems and stakes that feel high and dangerous.
The protagonist is compelling, navigating difficult choices, secrets, and challenges with a balance of cunning and vulnerability. The plot is filled with twists that keep you guessing, and the pacing is excellent for readers who enjoy tension and emotional stakes. This book is perfect for fans of dark fantasy and character-driven adventure.
The protagonist is compelling, navigating difficult choices, secrets, and challenges with a balance of cunning and vulnerability. The plot is filled with twists that keep you guessing, and the pacing is excellent for readers who enjoy tension and emotional stakes. This book is perfect for fans of dark fantasy and character-driven adventure.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this advanced reader copy to read this with my 12 and 10 year old kids, and we all enjoyed the story. The kids particularly loved the side characters and some of their banter. I particularly liked that nature is the source of magic.
I’d recommend for kids of a similar age. Fun story
I’d recommend for kids of a similar age. Fun story
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed the story. Although it has elements that are familiar, like an orphan that discovers she has magic and has to learn how to use it, this book is different. It uses northern mythology, elemental and nature magic and has a great abundance of LGBTQ+ elements and characters.
The world feels familiar yet magical, colourful and you want to explore it further.
The ending felt a little rushed after all the suspense that built up throughout the book (which I loved, so give me all the suspense in the next book please!) and I had a hunch as to who would turn out to be the culprit. But never would I have thought as to why! That was a nice surprise.
All in all a wonderful read and I'm looking forward to next book to find out more about all the characters and what happened at the wild claiming.
The world feels familiar yet magical, colourful and you want to explore it further.
The ending felt a little rushed after all the suspense that built up throughout the book (which I loved, so give me all the suspense in the next book please!) and I had a hunch as to who would turn out to be the culprit. But never would I have thought as to why! That was a nice surprise.
All in all a wonderful read and I'm looking forward to next book to find out more about all the characters and what happened at the wild claiming.
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