The Guilded Ones by Namina Forna (Deathless #1)

Deka prayed that her blood would run red, when it doesn't she's killed for the first time. Several deaths later she's offered a choice, become a soldier and fight with her fellow Alaki (near immortal girls) or stay and continue being killed until they find her final death. Deka chose to fight.

This is very much a story about female friendship and empowerment. There is a bit a romance sub plot but it is pretty back burner.

I really enjoyed seeing Deka come into herself. Slowly starting to understand what and who she is. All of the girls that she trained with especially her core group are rounded out really well. They bond overshared trauma. I also really liked their mentor.

The cast is extremely diverse with representation of all types including LGBTQ+.

I'm looking forward to seeing more about the original Guilded Ones in the next book as well as learning more about Deka's role and abilities.