Her Purpose

by Shelley D. Hiers

In the village of Sha’nigh, it is tradition when one reaches a certain age to leave their family behind and embark on a Wander in order to find their purpose and their true name. Only then can they return as a recognized member of the village. As one young girl sets out on this brave journey, she meets Dog, a wise but elusive Guardian, and proof that the world outside her village is full of magic and mystery. Dog presents her with a choice: continue in the tradition of her people or seek out a new path. During her journey, she meets a band of fantastical characters—a mystical spider, a group of outcasts named The Marked Ones, a giant bumblebee, a mysterious scholar, and a homeless prince.
With the stars to guide her and the winds at her back, she searches through enchanted forests, fords a magical ever-changing river, and explores a secret world of knowledge hidden deep inside a mountain. But nothing is as it seems. Her journey has unknowingly caused darkness to stir amongst the shadows. With the help of the family she’s built along the way, can she find her purpose and fulfill her destiny before the darkness claims her for itself?

315 pages, Paperback

Published January 17, 2022

Reviews

[Dawn M Burks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Throughly enjoyed my book.

[Anya Josephs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had no idea what to expect when I picked up "Her Purpose" by Shelley D. Hiers, a debut novel the author was kind enough to send me a review copy of. Y'all, this book is STUNNINGLY good. It blew my mind with the beauty of the writing and the poignancy of the story. I highly recommend everyone chase it down as soon as possible!

Okay, on to the story. "Her Purpose" is set in a world where children undergo a coming-of-age ritual, traveling through the world alone, before they can receive their names and their adult places in the community. The protagonist (who is unnamed) meets a host of fantastical, mythological characters who guide and hinder her on her journey, both to return home safely and to discover who she truly is--her purpose in the world.

This book reads like a particularly beautiful fable. The writing is lyrical and restrained. If you like Neil Gaiman's "Stardust" or "Ka" by John Crowley, you might especially enjoy this. It also has a stunningly gorgeous, emotionally unforgettable conclusion. It's appropriate for YA audiences, but I think every reader (not just of fantasy!) would like this.

[Novels and Brew · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a magical journey from start to finish! I never knew what to expect next. It was wholesome, exciting, and sentimental. It was very unique to any fantasy book I’ve read before. And it was such an epic adventure. It follows a nameless young girl on her journey to find her purpose. For a little backstory she is from the village of the Sha’nigh, And in that village when a child comes of age, they go on a journey to find their purpose, and when they do, they come back and choose their name. It’s super interesting. So this girl (And her giant bumble bee friend) go on a magical adventure. From magic knitting, to talking animals, and enchanted forests, this book was super creative. And enjoyable. I really loved reading it.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with this story. I picked it up while at Med fair a year ago. It is a beautifully written story that reminds me of some of my favorite childhood stories such as The king and his six friends. I watched the story play out in my mind because of the excellent detail that was given without being overwhelming or over done. This is a book that can span several ages of readers. I look forward to reading more from this new author.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book blew me away. The intricate details, the story itself, and the moral were all intriguing. I'm not much of a fantasy reader, but this book was riveting.
First time Author Shelley Hiers knocked it out of the park.
Congratulations

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting if you like this kind of book. I read it because my great granddaughter had read it and loved it. She wanted me to read it. It was not a waste of my time, if fact I wouldn't mind reading it again now that I know how it ends.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic tale of self-discovery and adventure, filled with whimsy and adventure. We can all relate the the little girl in many ways. Can’t wait to see where the characters go next.

[Emily Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It's a beautiful story that left me laughing and crying and wanting more! I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a new fantasy adventure, well worth the read.