Step into the mystical world of the Soul Seekers, where ancient shamanic powers and a battle between good and evil unfold in the enchanting deserts of New Mexico! Written by Alyson Noël, a New York Times bestselling author, this young adult fantasy series follows Daire Santos, a teen discovering her destiny as a Soul Seeker—one who navigates the realms of the living and the dead. With its intoxicating blend of supernatural thrills, romance, and coming-of-age drama, Soul Seekers has captivated readers worldwide.
Perfect for fans of magical realism and heart-pounding adventures, the series weaves Native American mythology with a modern twist, making it a standout in young adult fiction. Let’s explore how this spellbinding saga began, its core stories, and why it continues to resonate.
How Soul Seekers Began
Alyson Noël, inspired by her fascination with shamanism and mysticism, crafted the Soul Seekers series after diving deep into research for her earlier works, The Immortals and Riley Bloom series. Her travels to New Mexico, where she interviewed local teens and Native Americans, shaped the series’ vivid setting—a fictional town called Enchantment. Noël’s three-day shamanism course and studies of ancient spiritual practices fueled the series’ authentic yet imaginative mythology, blending reverence for tradition with creative storytelling.
The Heart of Soul Seekers
The Soul Seekers series spans four gripping books, each building on Daire Santos’s journey. Fated (2012) introduces Daire, a 16-year-old plagued by visions, who learns from her grandmother, Paloma, that she’s a Soul Seeker destined to battle the evil Richter family. In Echo (2012), Daire’s romance with Dace Whitefeather deepens, but his connection to the Richters complicates their fight against Dace’s evil twin, Cade. Mystic (2013) sees Daire racing to save Dace’s soul, while Horizon (2013) delivers a climactic showdown where love and sacrifice determine the fate of Enchantment.
The series shines through its themes of destiny, identity, and resilience, wrapped in a supernatural tapestry of shamanic visions and spirit worlds. Set against New Mexico’s rugged landscapes, the story’s cultural richness and Native American influences create a unique vibe. Noël’s fast-paced prose and emotional depth make Daire’s transformation from a world-weary teen to a powerful Seeker both relatable and inspiring.
Why Soul Seekers Resonates
Soul Seekers has left a mark on young adult fantasy by blending mystical traditions with modern teen struggles, appealing to readers who crave diverse, character-driven stories. Its exploration of shamanism and Native American lore sets it apart, offering a fresh take on the genre. The series’ option for a film adaptation by Cheyenne Enterprises, with a focus on Native actors, hints at its potential to reach new audiences. Fans praise its immersive world-building and emotional stakes, cementing its status as a cult favorite.
- Publication Years: 2012–2013
- Number of Books: 4
- Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
- Setting: Enchantment, New Mexico
Ready to embark on a magical journey? Grab Fated and dive into the Soul Seekers’ spellbinding world of destiny and adventure!