The Whisper of Leaves: Book 1 of The Kira Chronicles Nikakis, KS

Kira has lived her whole life in the settlement of Kasheron, bound by rigid rules and forbidden to venture into the forests beyond. But when she discovers she can hear the thoughts of animals and feel the whispers of the land itself, everything changes. Her gift marks her as dangerous — or powerful. Forced to flee, she's thrust into a world of ancient magic, warring clans, and prophecies she never asked to fulfill. K.S. Nikakis crafts a rich fantasy debut with a fierce, uncertain heroine who must learn to trust her abilities before they consume her. The worldbuilding is layered and atmospheric, with politics as sharp as the blade Kira learns to wield. Perfect for readers who crave coming-of-age fantasy with genuine stakes and a protagonist who earns her power the hard way.