ARC Review of 'The Spirit Dragon's Keeper' by Catarina Lilliehöök

Wow—this book took me by surprise in the best way. The Spirit Dragon’s Keeper is a beautifully written, emotionally grounded fantasy that feels both deeply mythical and fiercely human. It follows Mila, a Sámi girl who’s kidnapped and brought to a Chinese temple under mysterious circumstances. What follows is part survival story, part spiritual journey, and part martial arts epic. The world is rich with folklore and ancient wisdom, and Mila’s inner voice is unforgettable—raw, poetic, and full of quiet strength.

There’s no flashy magic here (at least not yet)—instead, it’s about intuition, energy, resilience, and identity. And the slow reveal of her mysterious powers feels incredibly earned. I loved the cultural fusion of Sámi and Chinese traditions, the sensory writing, and how real Mila felt.

If you’re tired of generic fantasy and want something that speaks to the soul, this book is for you. I can’t wait to see where the series goes next—because this feels like the beginning of something truly special. – Karen Gallen, Reviewer.