Before the eighth and final book of the Green Rider series, Kristen Britain tells the backstory of fan-favorite character Laren Mapstone. Green Rider trainee Tavin Bankstone is not thrilled to travel with Lieutenant-Rider Laren Mapstone. Although acclaimed for her battles against the Darrow Raiders,  Laren is emotionally closed off and cold. When Laren is injured in an attack, they seek refuge in a waystation. But as Laren's emotional control comes down, Tavin must quickly learn to control his empathic abilities before it destroys them both.

Although I love the Green Rider series, Spirit of the Wood felt like an unnecessary side story only the most diehard Green Rider fans will enjoy. Since it was described as Laren Mapstone's backstory, I found Spirit of the Wood extremely disappointing. Instead, the novella was more about Tavin Bankside than Laren, only giving the barest details of Laren's past. With tempered expectations, you might enjoy this one but feel free to skip it and wait for the final installment of the Green Rider saga.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from DAW through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.