If you’re a fan of young adult fantasy, full of magical abilities, secret societies, and a dash of danger, The Gifted Society by Tatiana White is a book that should be on your radar! This novel introduces us to Alexia, a sixteen-year-old girl with a dangerous secret and a world on the brink of magical chaos. Combining a fierce female lead with thrilling fantasy elements, this novel is an action-packed read for young adults, even if it comes with a few bumps along the way. Also, don't miss out on the giveaway below!
My Review
The Gifted Society by Tatiana White presents an imaginative world of teen magic-users, secret realms, and high stakes—perfect for readers who love stories about hidden powers and teenage heroes navigating dark dangers. While the story captures attention with its unique premise, it balances thrills with some dense sections that may require patience from readers.
The Plot
At the heart of this story is Alexia, a sixteen-year-old hiding a powerful secret: she’s a Varien, able to shoot stars from her skin—a gift that brings more danger than wonder. After witnessing her best friend Sarai being wrongfully accused of murder and subsequently taken away to face a grim fate, Alexia must conceal her powers even further. When a tragic accident involving her abilities exposes her secret, Alexia is forced to go on the run.
Her journey brings her to Greta, a quirky antique shop owner who introduces her to The Grove, a secret realm for Variens like herself. Within this sanctuary, she finds not just safety but also a mission: to save Sarai from being sacrificed by the Revenirs, a mysterious and deadly secret society.
While The Gifted Society delivers plenty of intrigue and a rich backstory, the plot sometimes feels weighed down by heavy world-building. There are moments where the story could have benefited from more action and fewer information dumps. However, for fans of young adult fantasy, the detailed lore will likely add to their appreciation of the story’s depth.
The Characters
One of the standout aspects of the novel is Alexia herself. White masterfully crafts a teenage protagonist who feels relatable—Alexia is tough, sassy, and resourceful, a heroine that readers can root for. Her internal struggles, particularly regarding her dangerous abilities and the desire to protect those she loves, add depth to her character.
Alexia’s journey is complemented by a quirky and colorful cast of characters, from her fiery roommate at Malveaux Prep Academy to her sarcastic teleporter mentor, Kyle. Each character brings their own energy to the story, providing much-needed levity amidst the darker themes. Greta, in particular, adds an interesting dynamic as the mysterious guide and shop owner, injecting some humor and heart into the mix.
However, while the characters are engaging, there are moments where the dialogue and interactions feel bogged down by the story's world-building—resulting in slower pacing at times.
The Setting
The world of The Gifted Society is fascinating, with Malveaux Prep Academy and The Grove offering magical havens for Variens. The idea of a hidden school where teens can hone their abilities will definitely appeal to readers who enjoy stories set in magical academies. The history of The Grove is also rich with mystery, creating a sense of foreboding as Alexia and her friends dig deeper into its secrets.
Tatiana White’s descriptions are vivid, painting clear pictures of the fantastical elements, from the eerie Revenirs to the serene but perilous Grove. The setting provides an immersive backdrop for the plot, even if some aspects could have used a bit more action to keep the momentum going.
What I Liked
I absolutely loved Alexia as the main character. White has created a believable and dynamic teenage girl with a fiery attitude that readers will connect with, especially in the young adult demographic. Her courage, vulnerability, and determination are compelling, and I think young readers will relate to her struggles, both as a Varien and as a teenager grappling with loyalty, friendship, and self-discovery.
The premise of hidden magical powers and secret societies is also exciting, and White does an excellent job of building tension around the stakes Alexia faces. The friendships she forms throughout the book are heartfelt and add a layer of warmth to the intense plotline.
What I Didn’t Like
One of the main issues I had with The Gifted Society was the pacing. There’s a lot of world-building, which, while interesting, tends to slow the story down. Some sections felt a little heavy with information, making it harder to stay engaged during parts of the book. I found myself wishing for more action scenes or thrill moments to break up the dense sections of exposition.
That being said, this is a personal preference, and readers who love richly detailed fantasy worlds may find this aspect enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Overall, The Gifted Society by Tatiana White offers an imaginative dive into a world of magic, danger, and friendship. It’s an enjoyable read for young adults, particularly those who love fantasy stories filled with complex characters and moral dilemmas. While the pacing can feel a bit slow due to the extensive world-building, the strong protagonist and intriguing plot make it a worthwhile read. If you’re a fan of teen fantasy adventures with a strong dose of friendship and sacrifice, give this one a try.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐/5
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