Shift: The Shiftwork Chronicles I

by J.P. Lee

Hidden deep in the shadows of the Appalachian Highlands survives a community of shapeshifters, training their twisted magic for criminal purposes against the country that rejected them. For seventeen-year-old Sybil, the mountains and the crime are all she’s ever known. As Career Day approaches, she longs to prove herself to the magical society that both curses and fears her.

When a representative from the White House unexpectedly selects Sybil for a critical operation, she is thrust into an unfamiliar world with higher stakes than she ever imagined. As she faces her first job, Sybil begins to question not only her mysterious new employer but also her older brother, who harbors secrets of his own. With allegiances divided and her way of life threatened, Sybil must decide who she can trust before it is too late and she loses all she holds close.

Set in a richly imagined, fantastical version of America, Shift is an exciting premiere tale of magic, intrigue, betrayal, and loyalty.

396 pages, Paperback

Expected publication April 23, 2026

About the author

J.P. Lee has been storytelling since childhood, writing her first story at the age of eight in a notebook. She completed a full-length fantasy novel during her high school years.

A Durham, North Carolina native, she received a degree in English, Writing, and Rhetoric from North Carolina State University.

Lee loves immersive books into which she can escape, and that is what she desires for her readers. She resides in Tennessee with her husband, son, and two beloved cats. When not writing or reading, she enjoys cooking and taking long walks with her family.

Follow her on Instagram or Facebook: @jpleeauthor.

Reviews

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shift is a dynamic, immersive, and twisty tale where things are not what they appear and intrigue lurks beneath the surface. Lee weaves a masterful story that contemplates morality (or lack thereof) in humanity and blurs the lines between good and bad.

[Jessica P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging and reminiscent of YA novels from the 2010s! A great fit for fans of “The Hunger Games,” “The Cruel Prince,” and “Red Queen.”

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book I just couldn't put down. With such a unique storyline and captivating characters, I was easily drawn in. It's a fantasy that doesn't disappoint, with twists and excitement and an ending that will leave you begging for the next book.
I loved how the story flowed and was paced perfectly. I highly recommend this fascinating read, especially to those who love a good fantasy with a dystopian America type of feel.


I received an early copy, but this review was my own and is voluntary

[Robert L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shift is a fast-moving tale of magic, treachery, intrigue, murder, and sometimes, love. It is a book replete with reckless abandon and life-threatening danger. You will not want to put this book down.I received an Advance Review Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect for fans of The Hunger Games! YA low fantasy set in a fantastical version of the 1950s US.

[Trish · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good! Review pending!