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.

Genres: Fantasy

396 pages, Paperback

Published 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.

[Gracie Auteri · Rating 4 out of 5]

review is advance copy receives from author.

This book far exceeded what my expectation were for it being a debut novel. The plot was interesting yet it had simplicity that all ages would be able to enjoy since it’s a YA book, it did have the complexity that teens would be able to grasp and enjoy as well. The book jumped right into the plot and did not get drawn out for half the book while we wait for the plot to happen which I believe many younger readers would appreciate. You are able to get a personal inside to the main character l ,Sybil, and we aren’t left questioning what she was thinking, I even had moments when I was getting frustrated with her which I love to see happen. It just shows that you can truly get in touch with the characters in the book. The characters were written for teenagers to enjoy which I believe the author hit the mark on that. Overall Lee did a fabulous job at creating a book her target market will enjoy as well adults who enjoy reading YA as well.

[Amara]

I had very high hopes going into this arc! But unfortunately I wasn’t able to finish it. I wanted to give it a fair chance so I waited until I was at least 100 pages in since that’s when the plot and characters are usually cemented a bit.
I don’t doubt that this author is very talented, but unfortunately the writing style wasn’t my cup of tea. It was a lot of information up front and expository which for me personally makes me feel a bit disconnected from the story. I also couldn’t really connect with the characters, although the world, plot and concept seemed very interesting! I wish I was able to get into it because I love the idea but unfortunately it just wasn’t for me.
If you do like that type of writing style I definitely think you would love this and should give it a chance!!!
Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!
I definitely think this book is still worth checking out!

[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.”

[B.W. Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome to a world that is almost familiar and yet filled with magic. J.P. Lee introduces a compelling scene of political intrigue and personal struggle that tugs at your desire to explore its depths and nuances. A true YA tale, it follows Sybil through coming of age experiences, family loyalty struggles, questions of morality, and budding relationships. I would recommend this book to any young adult (or young at heart!) who loves non-occult magic, clean (kissing only) romance, relational and political twists and turns, and all-is-not-as-it-seems! Warning: it leaves you wanting to know what happens next!

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

*4.5 Star Rating rounded to 5*

Review to come!!

[Trish · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was immediately drawn to this book for numerous reasons: the tropes (listed below), shifters! (this was my first time reading with the magic of shifting), the cover (it's gorgeous), and the "must read" for fans of Suzanne Collins and Rebecca Ross. I love going into books pretty blindly, so I let these things lead me to read Shift.

So how did I like it? Well, I flew through it in three days. I couldn't put it down! The concept of shifting was new to me and not what I expected, the fantastical world building set in the 50's based on America was very interesting, and the internal and external battles the main characters (who are siblings) go through along the journey are so emotional, yet fun to follow! I was flipping through pages to see where this story would go and I loved it! We do end on a cliffhanger, but it's not one of those that left me unsatisfied; it just left me eager and ready for book two.

The author wrote in a post that Shift was written to address the question: What would it look like to have a group of people who thought what was right was actually wrong? Whew! This book will have you thinking about how systems/castes can impact everything you've ever known. This aspect gave me Red Rising vibes, in a YA way.

Tropes:

- Political Intrigue
- Sibling Duo
- No Spice Romance
- Found Family
- Survival
- Betrayal & Loyalty

If you're looking for a new world, that has a powerful FMC (love Sybil), is fast-paced, will shock you with twists and turns, and is suitable for younger readers and all readers who enjoy less intensity and spice - this is for you!

Thank you to the author for the Advanced Copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoughts:

If you're into:
✅Spice Free Romance
✅Sibling Duos
✅Shape shifters
✅High Stakes
Then I think this book is for you! ✨

Characters:
•At first, I would say that the FMC annoyed me to death, now hear me out I really just didn't like the way she acted and her attitude as well... Then it got me thinking... Maybe the reason she annoyed me so was because I see myself in her. She's 17 (which I just became recently), she's got a temper/attitude, she does things knowing she'll probably regret the consequences, and she has an older brother that she cares about dearly.
•I would say the characters here aren't perfect, they're human. Their actions although aren't great, are things that an average person would probably make. You don't know the villain in the story because you could say they all are in their own way.
•I might sound crazy for this but I genuinely felt bad for President Calloway (Spoiler alert) Not only did Sybil cause the news to ruin his reputation, his wife left him, his kids are probably gone too, I'd in my own way also go crazy if those things happened to me. Although yes, I don't like the way he started treating them or referring them as slaves near the end but I genuinely would like to see more of his story.

Pacing:
Around the start it's quite slow, it quickens around the 100+ page mark and then you'll be speeding through it like there's no tomorrow. Would I say it's a bit rushed? Sure. Would I say I enjoyed it anyways? Yes.

Ending:
The world building, the characters, the type of storyline? It's quite unique and I enjoyed it a lot, I really wanted to see a shapeshifter story where it isn't just the side character in a fantasy novel and I'm so glad that I was able to ARC read for this one! Can't wait for the next books in the series ✨💕

[Becksreadingbooks -Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you love books that keep you on your toes? This book did it. Shift takes us into a world in which it's divided by the magic system that you are born with. Now Shifts can be born into any family of any magic system but they are not kept by their family. Shifts are considered lower than dirt in the world and treated that way. They are able to shift and look like other people. Sybil and her brother, Arthur, were given up together from the same family. Sybil was 6 months old and Arthur was 3 years old. Sibling shifts are not heard of in the Berog, which is where they live. Shifts are hired due to their ability to Shift for jobs and this happens once a month. However, the Shifts are treated poorly and live in a secluded fashion, uneducated, and in a very primitive environment until they are old enough to be hired or too old/injured to be hired anymore. They hunt for food and live a very poor existence in their Berog. They are kept this way by the others and their family is the Berog as a whole and their cabin where they are raised as a small part of their world.

Sybil is too young to start Shiftwork at 17 but Arthur has been highly sought after for his work. Then suddenly the two siblings are hired for a job together, even though Sybil is considered under aged! This book quickly pulls you into Shiftwork and you are challenged to think about what you feel that Shiftwork is considered to be good or bad. Sybil is caught up in an intense project that she has to complete, no matter her feelings as time goes by. Sybil has everything in her world challenged by this job. Does she believe in the way Shifts have been forced to live or does she want more now?

J.P. Lee wrote an amazing story about a set of people disliked for their abilities and thrown out of society because of it. This book is an excellent book & I thoroughly enjoyed reading it!

I was given an ARC with no requirement or expectation of a review. These thoughts are mine alone and my review is the summary of my thoughts on this book.

[Robyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is her debut novel but it absolutely doesn’t feel like a debut. J.P. Lee writes like a seasoned pro!
This story made me want to stay up way too late. The setting is well described so I could imagine being there. The plot is unique and well written. I love that they can shapeshift into other people.
She’s young and hasn’t ever seen anything outside of where she lives. She’s offered a wild opportunity that will be an incredible adventure but also dangerous. Not only the experience, but it will also help her family.
I thoroughly enjoyed this! It’s clean but still has danger, magic, scheming, plot twists and overall is just a really good story! I can’t wait for the next one!
Thank you J.P. Lee for letting me read it early!

[OliJaneReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shift was a fresh YA novel with an interesting take on shapeshifting. I enjoyed that it was set in the US, so I didn’t have to learn a new world along with a new magic system. I will say that I still struggle with the magi categories, but I think I would’ve had an easier time if I read it quicker.

The Shifts are simple and short-tempered, so you have to get used to their basic dialogue. As such, I feel like I had a difficult time connecting with the Shift characters.

I’m hoping for more Conrad and Killian, because I am super intrigued by both of them!

Sybil’s operation throughout the middle of the book kept me on the edge of my seat. I anticipate a lot more action like this in the rest of the series, and I’m excited to see what happens!

-

I received an ebook arc copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own!

[Byraxis is Reading]

okay so imagine six of crows got cozy with the Appalachian mountains, sprinkled in some shapeshifter chaos........that's what Shift is.
sybil is the kind of morally grey girlie who's just trying to survive a world that's decided she's the villain before she's even spoken, and watching her navigate underground magic crime + unexpected government ops + a brother with Secret Vibes had me reading with my jaw on the floor 👀
the political intrigue is chef's kiss, the found family crumbs are being savoured, and the worldbuilding feels like a dark fairytale version of America.
I have so many questions and trust issues and I simply cannot wait for book two
📖 if your tbr needs: shapeshifters, undercover ops, loyalty tested to its limits, and a protagonist finding herself in the messiest way possible — this is your next read.

I got this arc from author and qpbooktours. Thank you so much to both for choosing me to read this story.

Bookstagram 🐈Blog

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shift, the first book in the Shiftwork Chronicles series, is the debut novel of J.P. Lee. I just finished reading it, and I’m already excited for book 2! Like with many fantasy novels, I was so impressed by the creativity and detail put into it, all while crafting a story that is also entertaining. I simultaneously powered through the book wanting to know what happened next and then what happened after that and so on but also not wanting it to end. I suppose I’ll have to try to patiently wait for book 2 to come out! Shift scored 5 out of 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me. Highly recommend!

[Jack Puryear · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book felt unique in the sea of fantasy. A 1950s setting in America that has magic yet still felt like the America I’ve read about. The concept was intriguing: what does it look like for an ostracized group of people whose sole role in society is to do the dirty criminal work of the “polished” society.

The magic system felt unique which was refreshing!

[Cailyn Stapleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!!! The characters are so full of life and the plot kept me guessing right up until the end! The shifting concept was well thought out and executed perfectly! This book is slightly outside of the genres I usually stay within but Shift definitely has me wanting to read more books like this! The best part is that this is the first book in the series!

[Thistle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to the author and qpbooktours for providing me with the. All oppiniona nd reviews are mine and mine alone

From the misty Appalachian Highlands to a world tangled in secrets and power, Shift delivers everything I love in YA fantasy: high stakes, dangerous magic, and characters who feel painfully real. Sybil’s journey hit especially hard… that constant pull between loyalty, identity, and the need to prove yourself? Yeah, I felt that.

The shapeshifter lore was dark and addictive, the political intrigue kept me on edge, and the found family moments made it all hurt in the best way. And just when you think you know who to trust… you don’t.

[Abi Plested · Rating 4 out of 5]

This took me a bit to get into - page 1 we're thrown in the deep end with an explanation of the different peoples and the history which instantly scared me as too much to take in! I actually still felt by the end I didn’t quite understand that so maybe it would have been better drip fed through the book instead of info-dumped at start. But that aside, the book was great - well fleshed out characters, a ‘different from the done to death romantasy’ storyline and set up well for book 2. I still don’t know who to trust and that’s been very well played out.

[Ashley Churbock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shift was such a unique book in so many ways! This is the first shapeshifter book I have read and this element really made the book so fun for me to read!

Sybil, the FMC, is so strong, bold, and exactly what I love in a FMC. You’ll root for her the entire way and loved the unfolding of her story. Her underdog vibes really tugged at my heartstrings and made me instantly want to see her successful.

I loved the suspense building and the twists in the book that kept me reading. I am so excited for book 2 to see where Lee takes this!

I appreciated the ARC copy and chance to read Shift.

[Hanna M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to author J.P. Lee for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this wonderful book!

The premise was incredibly unique, the characters well-written, the dialogue engaging, and the antagonists… The antagonists! I was second-guessing their motives the entire way through.

The book left me with a lot of unanswered questions in all the right ways. I was left feeling like I have to know more, shocked by the outcome.

The only thing I saw that could potentially be fixed was the beginning. I feel like the first chapter had a lot of information right off the bat (which is necessary in a sense). I just feel it could have been paced better as it almost immediately took me out of the story.

Regardless, I highly recommend this book and I’m thankful to have had the opportunity to be a part of its ARC team. If there’s a second book in the future, I will definitely be reading!

[Summer · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a clean low-fantasy story with a dystopian twist, add Shift to your TBR.

I could not put this book down and found myself thinking about its premise long after I finished it. While it’s entertaining, it also makes you question the lengths those in authority will go to in order to oppress people they deem “unworthy.”

The novel is packed with political intrigue, survival, and high stakes. Shapeshifters add another layer of tension through covert operations that constantly keep you guessing. You’ll find yourself questioning loyalties and redefining who the real enemies are.

It’s geared toward young adults, but adults will absolutely enjoy it too.

If you loved Six of Crows, the Hunger Games, and Divine Rivals, then this is may be your next favorite read.

I received an ARC from the author/publisher, but his honest review is voluntary.

[Aubrey Hedman · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ when I tell you that this book is 10/5 stars, this book is so beyond amazing, beautifully written, believable, and I just could not put this book down.

From the beginning you remain hooked and you fall in love with Sybil and the adventure that alters the trajectory of her life forever.

the romance, the tensions, the betrayals, the conflicts, this book truly has it all. there's intrigue and just enough to cause the reader to have questions as the story plays out.
I absolutely am planning to buy a physical copy to read again and again.

The ending of this book made me go "Wait, what?" and now I have to waiiiit for the the next one to come out! 😭😭
But I look forward to it and I can guarantee I will be pre-ordering book 2 as soon as it's available.

extremely talented author, I genuinely cannot believe this is her debut novel!! she is absolutely amazing. Buy, buy, buy this book!!!
there's kisses, romance but sooo clean and so well written-it doesn't even feel like it needs more to fill out the story any more. ✨️
J.P. Lee has, undoubtedly, earned her spot as one of my favorite authors.

[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

[Samantha Dillard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Would you be willing to temporarily become someone else if it would benefit your family? That’s what the main character does in J.P. Lee's dystopian novel Shift releasing one week from today. The Shifts who live in Appalachia in an alternate universe are not trusted by most. Is that because they can shapeshift and take on the form of other people, or is it because they are criminals-for-hire–or both?

Sybil is just about to come of age to be able to start taking on jobs when Career Days roll around, when everything changes. The government takes over Shift registration and puts a halt to new jobs for now–except one that Sybil and her brother are hand-selected to handle. She travels with him to D.C.--her first time in the big city and enjoying the finer things in life. The siblings have to work together on an op full of deception and designed to ruin one man’s political standing and personal reputation.

When she returns home following her successful first op, she’s alarmed to find that everything has changed. Shifts are being treated like prisoners in their own home, with guards keeping them in check and watching their every move. How is her op connected to the changes that are happening to her kin’s way of life?

This book has characters that older teens and adults can easily relate to in an engaging plot that immerses you in the life of Shifts and the political environment in this alternate America. I appreciated that the settings were places that do actually exist, just changed to fit the alternate universe Lee created. The characters are all faced with tough decisions where there isn’t necessarily always a clear right or wrong.

I loved this story. I anticipated being entertained by the idea of shifting, but I was drawn in to this world and plot much more than I expected to be. By the end I was fully invested in Sybil’s story, her experience on her first op as a Shift, and her mistreatment by the government upon her return home. I loved the world that Lee created, and the idea of the Shifts. And, of course, the romance in the story sweetened the deal for me, a hopeless romantic–I loved the way Lee incorporated it seamlessly, even though it wasn’t the main plot.

If you are a fan of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins or the Out Of Time series by Nadine Brandes, you should absolutely pick up Shift. The story is different, but the feeling is similar. If you’re interested in YA dystopian, stories that take place in Appalachia, shapeshifting, magic, or alternate universe America–or just want a fresh story that hasn’t been done before!–I’d also recommend checking out Shift. Just be warned it does have a cliffhanger ending and I am already eagerly awaiting the next book!

I give this book 5 stars because I enjoyed it so thoroughly and believe everyone should at least give it a shot.

Discover for yourself what it means to be a Shift.

Content info: no spice, mild language (two words, if I remember correctly), violence, death

[Mel DeWitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Ya fantasy pulled me in right away, and I think part of that is because it felt familiar. The setting being rooted in America, with places like the White House and recognizable states, made it so easy to visualize without having to build a whole new world in my mind! But at the same time, it’s layered with such a unique concept.

Sybil has always been taught that as a Shifter, she and her people don’t belong with the rest of society. While others possess different forms of magic, the outside world has spent decades perfecting what magic is acceptable—and what isn’t—sorting people into categories based on their abilities and perceived worth. Meanwhile, the Shifters remain hidden away in Appalachia, called upon only for special ops, useful but never fully accepted. And for a long time, that life felt…normal. Even good enough, until Sybil is sent out on an op of her own with her brother. What she experiences beyond the mountains begins to unravel everything she thought she understood about her people, about the world, and about where she truly belongs.

The idea of people being able to shift into others and quietly influence politics? That had me completely hooked. It felt both creative and believable, which made it even more intriguing. I found myself thinking, “Okay but…what if?” more than once. It definitely leans YA, but in a way that still feels engaging and thought provoking as an adult reader.

Beyond the concept, the story is packed with action, secrets, and those moments where you’re questioning who you can trust.

It hits many fun tropes: political intrigue, hidden identities, sibling dynamics, loyalty vs. betrayal, and even a touch of clean romance without it feeling overdone.

It kept me turning pages because I needed to know what was really going on. There’s a deeper thread running through it too about identity, truth, and how easily things can be manipulated, and it honestly made my brain light up in the best way.

It’s one of those reads that’s entertaining but also lingers with you after, making you think about the world a little differently…which, let’s be honest, is already wild enough as it is!!


Well done, J.P. Lee ❤️

[Mychaela Bardakjy · Rating 3 out of 5]

When J. P. Lee reached out to me and asked if I’d like to help promote her debut novel, Shift, a mix between The Hunger Games and Six of Crows, I jumped at the opportunity.

The premise of Shift is unique and intriguing: an alternate version/reality of America circa 1950’s, with different classes of magic amongst the people; and a small group of people living in Appalachia who have the ability to shift their features into other humans, who are seen as lesser than other people, and who are hired by the “elite” to do their dirty work. There’s a mix of low fantasy and lots of political intrigue, as well as a large emphasis on class systems. The Shifts live secluded and uneducated until Career Day when they can be hired for criminal work.

I was very intrigued by Sybil’s story and how her first job was going to go. Seeing how she navigated time outside Appalachia, held her own, but also had to work through mistakes and struggles felt authentic based on her age and experience. There is so much going on behind the scenes and so much that as the reader we don’t know, so some of the twists and info that was brought out towards the end was surprising and leaves the reader with questions about what really is going on deep within the government.

While this is a solid debut novel, it fell a little flat for me personally. There’s a big expository part at the beginning that is difficult to follow and is too much of an info dump in my option. I also felt there was a lot of telling instead of showing, and I found a few parts of Sibyl’s job to just be too unbelievable or almost too easy at times. These are all specific to me and based on what I typically enjoy in my reads, so while I didn’t overly love it, I still recommend it, think a lot of people will enjoy it, and still may read book 2 to get those questions I have answered.

[Kami Topf · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW:
3.75⭐

This was a very original story and the sort of dystopian America was interesting. I will say I didn't fully understand it, or the magic system and caste system until 60-70% of the way through.

I enjoyed the sort of political thriller aspect around 10-35% of the book when the main character was in D.C. The FMC, Sybil, is a shift. They are a small group of people who can shape shift and live in a community in Appalachia. They're ostracized and treated as dangerous outcasts and criminals.

The worldbuilding could have been more fleshed out. I would have liked to learn more about the Southwards and Westwards, etc. cause apparently there are elves? They were mentioned once so I never got a full grasp of what the world consisted of.

It was kind of hard to get a read on Sybil and I didn't feel a connection to any of the characters. With so many people living in their community there were a lot of names. She very clearly had a strong relationship with her brother Art which was nice, even though sometimes it was a little rocky.

I also felt her relationship with Xavier and some of the other shifts would have done well to be fleshed out better.

She just felt a little dramatic and annoyed me sometimes but I admired her desire to defend her "family". The shifts went through a lot and didn't know who to trust. They were easily manipulated by the political figures.

It felt like there were some unnecessary parts/parts that were dragged out. The ending for example. Generally speaking this took me a little longer to read because I wasn't super invested in it or the characters. I was reading it to finish it, not to read it, if that makes sense.

[The Page Ladies Book Club · Rating 4 out of 5]

Career Day, but make it shapeshifters, criminal magic, and a surprise call from the White House.🐺🔥🇺🇸

Sybil has grown up hidden in the Appalachian Highlands in a secret community of shapeshifters who use their magic for criminal operations. It’s gritty. It’s intense. It’s all she’s ever known. And with Career Day looming, which, by the way, is not your average, what do you want to be when you grow up? situation, she’s desperate to prove she belongs.

Then boom, a representative from the White House handpicks her for a high-stakes mission.

Excuse me??

Watching Sybil get pulled from her shadowy mountain world into a bigger, more dangerous political game was SO compelling. The tension between loyalty to her people and the unsettling feeling that she’s being used? Perfect! And don’t even get me started on the secrets her older brother is keeping. The betrayal vibes were vibing.

What I loved most was how layered this felt. It’s not just shapeshifting coolness, though. Yes, that part is awesome. It’s about identity. About being rejected by the country you live in. About figuring out who you are when the system and your own family might not be telling you the whole truth.

Fast-paced, twisty, and packed with intrigue, this felt like a fantastical version of America where nothing is as simple as good vs. evil.

✨️Thank you, Storygram Tours and J.P. Lee, for sharing The Shift with me!

[Amy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review 4.5 ⭐️ this book is an upper YA dystopian fantasy book. Set in Virginia, Washington, and the surrounding Appalachian area. I grew up in Pennsylvania and am familiar with this setting, so it was really fun to see it portrayed well and used as the backdrop of this story. I enjoyed the magic system. It is not dark or mystical, more like special abilities these people have. The Shifts ability was really unique, and I enjoyed learning about it through Sybil. The life of the Shifts is hard and has shaped these characters into gritty people with little compassion or remorse. At times, this can make their actions difficult to read about, and make the characters difficult to like. But these characters are real and believable; easy to understand their motives in the moment even if you don’t agree. This book contains violence, blood, and death, but is not overly gory or descriptive. Occasional use of bad language; think Hunger Games or Divergent type level. There is some kissing and mention of an affair, but nothing is on page or descriptive. No spoilers but that aspect is all very appropriate in content for upper YA audiences. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I’m on the edge of my seat for announcements about book 2 now! A wonderful job by @jpleeauthor ! Thank you to J P Lee for the opportunity to advance read and review this book! Highly recommended for fans of dystopian style books.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

So first, let's talk about setting. If you have not ever been to the Appalachian Mountains then it may be difficult for you to picture the beauty and serenity of the beorg. The peacefulness of the forest, the smell of the trees, the crisp cold water flowing in the streams, and the clear mountain air. This is where I was born and raised and I'm drawn to this area like a moth to a flame.

When I first met Sybil and her kin in their small community, I was instantly reminded of District 12 from the Hunger Games. Living in cabins and barely surviving on a minimal existence, they are a simple people who are mostly unaware of the frivolities and amenities of the other lives led outside their boundaries.

Until they are required to leave for an op. And though she misses her mountains and clean air and trees, once out in the main world at large, Sybil, begins to appreciate many of the finer things taken for granted by those living on the outside.

This new young adult fantasy is an interesting new take on magic with mind readers and shape shifters. I haven't read a large variety of YA fantasy series but to me, Shift is the perfect blend between Hunger Games and Divergent, two of my favorites I have read outside of the Harry Potter series.

The ability to shape shift was a new concept to me. I tried to imagine being able to do that and thought about how odd it would feel to be in someone else's body. It reminded me of drinking polyjuice potion!

I definitely recommend it to both the young adult crowd and adults and can't wait to see what happens to Sybil and the other Shifts in book two.

[Bookishbeyondpages · Rating 5 out of 5]

okay so I got the arc copy of this book through qpbooktours… i was NOT prepared for this book to absolutely hijack my brain chemistry

Shift is giving:
shapeshifter crime family
shady government ops
trust issues so severe you start side-eyeing EVERYONE
and somehow it all WORKS.....

sybil… oh my GOD. i love her, i support her, i would also like to gently shake her and say “bestie please think” but like in a loving way. her whole journey of trying to prove herself while realizing everything around her might be a lie?? yeah that hurt. thanks.

ALSO the brother situation??? i’m not okay. i will not elaborate but just know i am emotionally compromised.

the vibes are immaculate: tense. messy. dramatic. a little unhinged. extremely addictive.
i went into this thinking “this sounds fun”
i left like “i would die for these chaotic people and their terrible decisions”

anyway. 5 stars. no notes. i need book 2 immediately!!!!!

💀🔥 Read the full chaos on my blog.

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