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Of River and Spirit: A Sweet YA Shapeshifter Romance
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 23, 2026
About the author
Allison Blanchard
5 books71 followersAllison Blanchard is a young adult romantasy author and creative writing teacher at Brookwood High School in Gwinnett County, Georgia. She holds a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in literacy, as well as degrees in English Creative Writing and French. Allison is the author of the Forget Me Not trilogy (Martin Sisters Publishing, Inc.) and is currently working on her new YA Romantasy series, The Bloodwright Chronicles. She lives in Bethlehem, Georgia, with her husband and their two dogs. When she is not writing or teaching, you can find her with a book in hand, drinking obscene amounts of coffee, and listening to Taylor Swift.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
July 25, 2026
Allison Blanchard delivers everything you could possibly hope for and more in this heartfelt, touching story of the intertwined lives of Adeline and Cole. It's a gripping story that delves into the complexities of born bonds, tribal secrets and a love that transcends lifetimes. My heart longed for a story like this, full of legends, truth in tales and a strong green flag MMC. I didn't know how much I was missing, until I finished reading Of River and Spirit.
Adeline is shy, loyal, and convinced she's ordinary.
Cole is kind, guarded, and carrying far more than he lets on. Watching their friendship slowly become something more while the secrets surrounding them unraveled kept me completely invested. I especially adored Adeline and Cole's relationship; their bond was truly captivating.
What really made this stand out, though, was the way Allison brought Native legends to life. It felt fresh, immersive, and unlike anything else on my shelf.
Every new reveal made me want to keep turning the page. The native tribal legends were so entertaining and gave off serious Jacob Black vibes! I'm incredibly excited to see where Adeline and Cole's story takes us next.
If you're looking for an emotional YA paranormal romance with friends to lovers, a shape-shifter MMC, slow burn, small-town vibes, and mythology woven beautifully into the story, this one belongs on your TBR.
Adeline is shy, loyal, and convinced she's ordinary.
Cole is kind, guarded, and carrying far more than he lets on. Watching their friendship slowly become something more while the secrets surrounding them unraveled kept me completely invested. I especially adored Adeline and Cole's relationship; their bond was truly captivating.
What really made this stand out, though, was the way Allison brought Native legends to life. It felt fresh, immersive, and unlike anything else on my shelf.
Every new reveal made me want to keep turning the page. The native tribal legends were so entertaining and gave off serious Jacob Black vibes! I'm incredibly excited to see where Adeline and Cole's story takes us next.
If you're looking for an emotional YA paranormal romance with friends to lovers, a shape-shifter MMC, slow burn, small-town vibes, and mythology woven beautifully into the story, this one belongs on your TBR.
July 22, 2026
My teenage self was absolutely kicking her feet reading this. I grew up reading Twilight and was always team Jacob. This book gives all the feels of "if Jacob got a better story", and also a twist. Maybe a little Rowan Whitethorn from Throne of glass vibes sprinkled in there as well. ✨
Obsessed. 🤌🏼
This story follows Adeline, who gets her life flipped upside down (again) after meeting Cole - a transfer student from the local Native American Reservation. Their relationship is slow and sweet and exactly the type of book I would want my two daughters reading. No spice but just the right amount of longing and butterflies.
“The way you two look at each other . . . it’s like you would burn the world down for him. And he would rip the sky apart for you.”
•Slow burn
•YA Fantasy
•Friends to lovers
•Small town
•Shifters
•Native American legends
•Secrets
I am so incredibly thankful I got the opportunity to read this book and support this amazing author. Thank you Alison Blanchard and Varus Publishing for the ARC.
Obsessed. 🤌🏼
This story follows Adeline, who gets her life flipped upside down (again) after meeting Cole - a transfer student from the local Native American Reservation. Their relationship is slow and sweet and exactly the type of book I would want my two daughters reading. No spice but just the right amount of longing and butterflies.
“The way you two look at each other . . . it’s like you would burn the world down for him. And he would rip the sky apart for you.”
•Slow burn
•YA Fantasy
•Friends to lovers
•Small town
•Shifters
•Native American legends
•Secrets
I am so incredibly thankful I got the opportunity to read this book and support this amazing author. Thank you Alison Blanchard and Varus Publishing for the ARC.
July 28, 2026
Beautifully crafted story. I wasnt feeling well today and this book hit every spot. Super easy to read and digest and great main characters. Adeline and Cole are super young, which I don't usually like, but for the story this author created it worked and made it so sweet. Love the native american representation here along with the lore.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you loved twilight, This book is the story Jacob deserved but better!
I am so thankful to Allison Blanchard for an advanced readers copy of this book, because it cured the Twilight Quileute Tribe craving I’ve had for 18 years. While these are not wolf shapeshifter per se, they are still shapeshifters in an even more interesting way.
The story follows Adeline and Cole, Cole is part of a Native American tribe who decided to attend high school at the regular high school instead of the reservation school. From the very beginning there is a connection between them and instead of falling into the relationship category, they become very close friends and each other’s support system.
I loved how realistic the way they spoke and interacted felt to high schoolers and even how they managed their emotions. It made me feel like I was in high school myself all over again. Another thing I also loved was that the story was more focused on the plot and the role both Adeline and Cole played in this paranormal fantasy world and not just their romantic relationship. I was so hooked in wanting to understand the legend and what did everything mean that before I know I was at the end of the book and wanting more.
If you love YA non spice books, shapeshifter plot lines, ancient legends and Native American references, conflict between rival territory and tribe, high school popularity and gossip drama, mysterious prophecies and young first love, then this is a book you definitely want to read.
I am so thankful to Allison Blanchard for an advanced readers copy of this book, because it cured the Twilight Quileute Tribe craving I’ve had for 18 years. While these are not wolf shapeshifter per se, they are still shapeshifters in an even more interesting way.
The story follows Adeline and Cole, Cole is part of a Native American tribe who decided to attend high school at the regular high school instead of the reservation school. From the very beginning there is a connection between them and instead of falling into the relationship category, they become very close friends and each other’s support system.
I loved how realistic the way they spoke and interacted felt to high schoolers and even how they managed their emotions. It made me feel like I was in high school myself all over again. Another thing I also loved was that the story was more focused on the plot and the role both Adeline and Cole played in this paranormal fantasy world and not just their romantic relationship. I was so hooked in wanting to understand the legend and what did everything mean that before I know I was at the end of the book and wanting more.
If you love YA non spice books, shapeshifter plot lines, ancient legends and Native American references, conflict between rival territory and tribe, high school popularity and gossip drama, mysterious prophecies and young first love, then this is a book you definitely want to read.
July 25, 2026
This was such a different book from Allison Blanchard’s debut, but somehow it still had everything I love about her writing. She has this way of creating stories that are full of hope, heartache, and connections that feel real.
I’ll admit, there were moments that reminded me of the feeling I had reading Twilight years ago. It is not because it’s the same story, but because I got completely swept up in the mystery, the yearning, and wanting to know what was coming next.
Adeline is shy, loyal, and convinced she’s ordinary. Cole is kind, guarded, and carrying far more than he lets on. Watching their friendship slowly become something more while the secrets surrounding them unraveled kept me completely invested.
What really made this stand out, though, was the way Allison brought Native legends to life. It felt fresh, immersive, and unlike anything else on my shelf. Every new reveal made me want to keep turning the page.
If you’re looking for an emotional YA paranormal romance with friends to lovers, a shape-shifter MMC, slow burn, small-town vibes, and mythology woven beautifully into the story, this one belongs on your TBR.
Thank you, Allison, for trusting me with another ARC. I already need book two because I’m not ready to leave this world just yet.
I’ll admit, there were moments that reminded me of the feeling I had reading Twilight years ago. It is not because it’s the same story, but because I got completely swept up in the mystery, the yearning, and wanting to know what was coming next.
Adeline is shy, loyal, and convinced she’s ordinary. Cole is kind, guarded, and carrying far more than he lets on. Watching their friendship slowly become something more while the secrets surrounding them unraveled kept me completely invested.
What really made this stand out, though, was the way Allison brought Native legends to life. It felt fresh, immersive, and unlike anything else on my shelf. Every new reveal made me want to keep turning the page.
If you’re looking for an emotional YA paranormal romance with friends to lovers, a shape-shifter MMC, slow burn, small-town vibes, and mythology woven beautifully into the story, this one belongs on your TBR.
Thank you, Allison, for trusting me with another ARC. I already need book two because I’m not ready to leave this world just yet.
Review of advance copy
Can you say? A M A Z I N G!!!
If you love twilight and was hoping for a better ending for Jacob this is the one you need to read. Why you may ask? Because it is even better than what we hope for. When I tell you I was hooked since page one, I sure was. Allison has written yet another book that you don't want to put down or you want to take your time to not miss any details of the story. We have Adeline who was living life as best as she could. When one day Cole walked into her life and it did a 360 change for sure. Nothing was the same but it was the best adventure she was going to encounter. From learning about the Native American tribes he was part of, to the stories of ancestors, to rivalry, to family members not being accepting of their friendship, highschool drama and gossip and many more. When I tell you, you will want to pick this book up because you won't regret it. We have shape shifters, magic, no spice, mystery, action and more ♡
If you love twilight and was hoping for a better ending for Jacob this is the one you need to read. Why you may ask? Because it is even better than what we hope for. When I tell you I was hooked since page one, I sure was. Allison has written yet another book that you don't want to put down or you want to take your time to not miss any details of the story. We have Adeline who was living life as best as she could. When one day Cole walked into her life and it did a 360 change for sure. Nothing was the same but it was the best adventure she was going to encounter. From learning about the Native American tribes he was part of, to the stories of ancestors, to rivalry, to family members not being accepting of their friendship, highschool drama and gossip and many more. When I tell you, you will want to pick this book up because you won't regret it. We have shape shifters, magic, no spice, mystery, action and more ♡
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author and Varus publishing for the ARC to read and review 🫶
This is one of my favorite reads so far this year. From the moment I signed up to ARC read for this, I knew it was going to impact me in such a good way.
Allison Blanchard delivers everything you could possibly hope for and more in this heartfelt, touching story of the intertwined lives of Adeline and Cole. It’s a gripping story that delves into the complexities of born bonds, tribal secrets and a love that transcends lifetimes.
My heart longed for a story like this, full of legends, truth in tales and a strong green flag MMC. I didn’t know how much I was missing, until I finished reading Of River and Spirit.
Allison blanchard creates an all consuming, comforting love story. One that will stick with me for as long as their love exists.
My heart is so full and warm with admiration for this story. I absolutely loved it to pieces and I cannot wait to read more 💙
This is one of my favorite reads so far this year. From the moment I signed up to ARC read for this, I knew it was going to impact me in such a good way.
Allison Blanchard delivers everything you could possibly hope for and more in this heartfelt, touching story of the intertwined lives of Adeline and Cole. It’s a gripping story that delves into the complexities of born bonds, tribal secrets and a love that transcends lifetimes.
My heart longed for a story like this, full of legends, truth in tales and a strong green flag MMC. I didn’t know how much I was missing, until I finished reading Of River and Spirit.
Allison blanchard creates an all consuming, comforting love story. One that will stick with me for as long as their love exists.
My heart is so full and warm with admiration for this story. I absolutely loved it to pieces and I cannot wait to read more 💙
Review of advance copy received from Autre
5 stars, no question.
It was nothing but an AMAZING journey.
I loved the writing style so much, it made everything so easy to read and just pulled me in from the start.
This book is different from the typical fantasy world, where it starts directly in a magic setting or where powers are seen as normal... in this one, everything was wrapped in myths and legends, and with each passing moment, the uncertainty that maybe everything is real after all just kept growing.
I loved how it wasn't overwhelming with descriptions or details, there was only what was necessary to make the story feel alive.
I adored the sweet moments between Adeline and Cole, the smooth shift from just friends to something more was just wonderful.
As a first book in a series, it did its job perfectly, introducing the world, the characters, and the stakes, all of it. Now I just need the next one.
It was nothing but an AMAZING journey.
I loved the writing style so much, it made everything so easy to read and just pulled me in from the start.
This book is different from the typical fantasy world, where it starts directly in a magic setting or where powers are seen as normal... in this one, everything was wrapped in myths and legends, and with each passing moment, the uncertainty that maybe everything is real after all just kept growing.
I loved how it wasn't overwhelming with descriptions or details, there was only what was necessary to make the story feel alive.
I adored the sweet moments between Adeline and Cole, the smooth shift from just friends to something more was just wonderful.
As a first book in a series, it did its job perfectly, introducing the world, the characters, and the stakes, all of it. Now I just need the next one.
July 23, 2026
🦅 ARC Review 🦅
This book was sooooooooooo good. It was such a steady climb and it was perfect! The FMC is a shy and timid high school girl, considered a loner, out of the blue this gorgeous boy, our MMC, came out of the blue and everything changes 🤭 I really felt like this was an alternative story for Bella Swan choosing our forever hopes of it being Jacob. The warm body, the lingering, the mystery and change; it allllllll worked out so beautifully. One thing that really stuck out to me was the longer chapters in this book, the best way I can describe it is it felt more like a movie than it did a tv series episode. I’ve never felt that way about a book because I feel they generally jump around a lot, but this one really was in line with time and space. I throughly enjoyed this book and I CANNOT wait for the next. Allison you always have a way with words!
This book was sooooooooooo good. It was such a steady climb and it was perfect! The FMC is a shy and timid high school girl, considered a loner, out of the blue this gorgeous boy, our MMC, came out of the blue and everything changes 🤭 I really felt like this was an alternative story for Bella Swan choosing our forever hopes of it being Jacob. The warm body, the lingering, the mystery and change; it allllllll worked out so beautifully. One thing that really stuck out to me was the longer chapters in this book, the best way I can describe it is it felt more like a movie than it did a tv series episode. I’ve never felt that way about a book because I feel they generally jump around a lot, but this one really was in line with time and space. I throughly enjoyed this book and I CANNOT wait for the next. Allison you always have a way with words!
July 31, 2026
Book 1 of The Spirit Bound Series. And a wonderful start it is! Look forward to more from this world.
'Of River and Spirit is an atmospheric, no-spice YA paranormal romance featuring friends-to-lovers sweetness, shapeshifter magic, a loyal protective hero, Native legends, small-town secrets, and a tender romance set beneath the mountains and stars of Montana.'
The characters were very appealing and likeable and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Varus Publishing Core Readers and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'Of River and Spirit is an atmospheric, no-spice YA paranormal romance featuring friends-to-lovers sweetness, shapeshifter magic, a loyal protective hero, Native legends, small-town secrets, and a tender romance set beneath the mountains and stars of Montana.'
The characters were very appealing and likeable and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Varus Publishing Core Readers and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Allison did it again. Another book you just can’t put down!!
Of River and Spirit is the first in her Spirit Bound series. This story reminds me of the various Twilight book but oh so much better and more mature! It’s filled with legends coming to life, found magic, found love, no spice slow burn, and a story of true love and sacrifice.
Allison’s writing is superb, hooking you from the first page!
If you are a fan of Twilight, shape shifters, magic, and mystery, then this is for you!
I can’t wait for the next 2 books to see how this series turns out!
Many thanks to the author, Allison, for the ARC to read and review.
Of River and Spirit is the first in her Spirit Bound series. This story reminds me of the various Twilight book but oh so much better and more mature! It’s filled with legends coming to life, found magic, found love, no spice slow burn, and a story of true love and sacrifice.
Allison’s writing is superb, hooking you from the first page!
If you are a fan of Twilight, shape shifters, magic, and mystery, then this is for you!
I can’t wait for the next 2 books to see how this series turns out!
Many thanks to the author, Allison, for the ARC to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author and Varus Publishing for the ARC copy.
I think the premise of the story is quite sweet and the characters are relatable. I appreciated weaving in of Native American folklore and the awareness of the dynamics between the indigenous and nonindigenous characters. The plot and pacing are solid. I think the thing that didn't quite work for my taste is that I wanted the main character to be more active in her story. The dialogue felt at times like not how real teenagers (or people) talk but sort of neatly polished and a little formal. I'll admit I haven't read a YA novel in a while so some of this may be more aligned with the genre standard than I am used to!
I think the premise of the story is quite sweet and the characters are relatable. I appreciated weaving in of Native American folklore and the awareness of the dynamics between the indigenous and nonindigenous characters. The plot and pacing are solid. I think the thing that didn't quite work for my taste is that I wanted the main character to be more active in her story. The dialogue felt at times like not how real teenagers (or people) talk but sort of neatly polished and a little formal. I'll admit I haven't read a YA novel in a while so some of this may be more aligned with the genre standard than I am used to!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25 stars ⭐!
Thank you Allison Blanchard for allowing me to be apart of your ARC and Street Team for Of River and Spirit.
This is a perfect start to a sweet shifter story, perfect for Twilight Jacob fans. It was had myths becoming true and non native curiosity. It also has tribal rivalries that are generations old.
It as is a perfect YA romance which is the perfect mix of cringe and cute, which would how it would naturally been in real life.
Definitely looking forward to where this series goes!
Thank you Allison Blanchard for allowing me to be apart of your ARC and Street Team for Of River and Spirit.
This is a perfect start to a sweet shifter story, perfect for Twilight Jacob fans. It was had myths becoming true and non native curiosity. It also has tribal rivalries that are generations old.
It as is a perfect YA romance which is the perfect mix of cringe and cute, which would how it would naturally been in real life.
Definitely looking forward to where this series goes!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Man on man…. I couldn’t begin to tell you how much I absolutely love Allison’s writing and storytelling. I fell in love with her debut novel and now here I am with the opportunity to read an ARC of “Of River and Spirit” and now even more in love and obsessed with her second book.
Of River and Spirit completely swept me away with its atmospheric blend of folklore, mystery, and heartfelt romance. Rather than relying on nonstop action, this story takes its time, allowing you to truly connect with its characters and become immersed in this world where ancient legends are more than just stories.
Allison has such a gift for writing a romance that unfolds with intention. The slow-burn between Adeline and Cole never felt rushed—it was built on friendship, trust, patience, and unwavering loyalty, making every small moment between them feel meaningful. Watching their bond gradually transform into love while they faced impossible truths together had me smiling more times than I can count. Their relationship felt genuine, tender, and incredibly easy to root for.
By the time I reached the final page, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye. I found myself wanting to spend more time with these characters, uncover more of the tribal legends, and dive even deeper into the rich folklore woven throughout the story. Now comes the hardest part—waiting for book two. I can’t wait to see where Allison takes Adeline and Cole next, because it truly feels like their journey is only just beginning.
Thank you again Allison for gifting me this ARC and allowing me to be on your street team.
Of River and Spirit completely swept me away with its atmospheric blend of folklore, mystery, and heartfelt romance. Rather than relying on nonstop action, this story takes its time, allowing you to truly connect with its characters and become immersed in this world where ancient legends are more than just stories.
Allison has such a gift for writing a romance that unfolds with intention. The slow-burn between Adeline and Cole never felt rushed—it was built on friendship, trust, patience, and unwavering loyalty, making every small moment between them feel meaningful. Watching their bond gradually transform into love while they faced impossible truths together had me smiling more times than I can count. Their relationship felt genuine, tender, and incredibly easy to root for.
By the time I reached the final page, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye. I found myself wanting to spend more time with these characters, uncover more of the tribal legends, and dive even deeper into the rich folklore woven throughout the story. Now comes the hardest part—waiting for book two. I can’t wait to see where Allison takes Adeline and Cole next, because it truly feels like their journey is only just beginning.
Thank you again Allison for gifting me this ARC and allowing me to be on your street team.
July 21, 2026
Disclaimer: I received an ARC in exchange for a review.
The book was a work of art with Native American mythology. If you enjoy learning more about Native American culture and legends then this book is for you! Cole and Adeline were such a sweet couple filled with immense yearning. The story between Cole and Adeline was beautifully written. Cole’s character showed how yearning is much better than any spice. If you like Native American folklore, sweet romance, yearning, and redemption then you should most certainly pick up “Of River and Spirit.” I can’t wait for book 2!
The book was a work of art with Native American mythology. If you enjoy learning more about Native American culture and legends then this book is for you! Cole and Adeline were such a sweet couple filled with immense yearning. The story between Cole and Adeline was beautifully written. Cole’s character showed how yearning is much better than any spice. If you like Native American folklore, sweet romance, yearning, and redemption then you should most certainly pick up “Of River and Spirit.” I can’t wait for book 2!
July 23, 2026
I finished this book in 1 day, it follows Adeline and Cole who is part of a Native American Tribe with many Legends and secrets. When Adeline sees Cole walk in to his first day of class being the new kid she feels a spark of energy between them she can’t ignore soon Adeline and Cole’s friendship forms to something more, she realizes that that pull she felt was only because she is part of those secret legends . Now Adeline and Cole must uncover and help one another navigate these tribal secrets. This book is Friends to lovers, no spice, shapeshifter, Native legends small town secrets.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a really fun read! The main reason I gave it three stars is because it ended up being very different than the books I typically read, so I had a bit of trouble really getting into it. I did really like the twists and unexpected events that occurred throughout the story. If you like legends, secrets, chosen characters, and romance without spice, this book is for you!!
July 25, 2026
This was an advance copy and I had a hard time putting it down this is also book 2 I recommend this book to anyone I was reading it to my grandchildren and they were loving it as well you fall in love with the characters
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews