Gifted

The Gifted Saga #1

by Kaitlin H. Powell

As long as Beau Hawthorne has known anything, he knows Gifteds are extinct. Once powerful creatures with superhuman abilities, Gifteds were killed for betraying the humans and trying to overthrow the king. For their deceit, they were driven into extinction.

Now, Beau longs to be a scholar in the capital of Alsida and to escape the cruel and cold estate on which he was raised. His adoptive father sends him on a mission into town, where a twist of fate ends with him being attacked. A stranger saves him and tells him why he was targeted.

Beau is a Gifted. They had never gone extinct. They had gone into hiding. Enlisted as a key player in a game he didn’t know was possible, Beau must work with his new friends to stop the threat lurking in the shadows, waiting for the perfect time to strike. Five Gifteds must rise up and save the kingdom before the brink of war destroys Alsida and everyone in it.

With immersive world-building, scintillating action, and characters that leap off the page, Gifted is perfect for fans of Red Queen, The Prison Healer, and Throne of Glass.

559 pages, Paperback

First published October 24, 2023

About the author

Kaitlin H Powell has been writing for as long as she can remember. Ever since she learned how to read, she knew that she would be a writer one day. She self-published her first novel at the age of seventeen and has since dedicated her time to writing novels that actually should see the light of day. Gifted is her YA Fantasy debut.

She lives in Boise with her ever-expanding library of books and her leopard gecko, Ferguson. When she is not writing or reading, she can be found with friends, playing sports, exploring the outdoors, or listening to music.

Reviews

[Kylie Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

got super into this book and couldn’t put it down. started second book immediately. enjoyed the gifted aspect and the quest finding. would be cool to see. this in a movie

[kaitlyns_library · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book falls under the genre of fantasy and the writing style and story does feel very reminiscent of the 2010s type of fantasy story. Thus, this book has an element of comfort. I do wish that the world building was fleshed out a bit more. This book could’ve probably been separated into two and focus more on Beau becoming Gifted in the first book and then have book two be a focus on when he goes on a quest. I think in doing this, the world building and writing could have made a bigger impact and I would’ve enjoyed this book so much more. For the size of this book, it was a very quick read. I’m interested to see how this series progresses, but a cliff hanger definitely would’ve created more shock and anticipation for the next book.

Thank you @bykaitlinhpowell for a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

Publication Date: 24.10.2023

[Shenoah Clegg · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant debut novel from Powell. This page-turner brings to mind the magic of Harry Potter and the intrigue of X-Men, while being a truly unique creation. In this coming-of-age novel about the devastating power of prejudice, we follow Beau as he discovers abilities he never dreamed could exist - let alone in himself - and learns to navigate those powers to protect an even stronger new force in his life: friendship. Written in a manner that will appeal to the young and the only-young-in-spirit, this novel is a winner. Powell has a knack for nailing deeply insightful moments of character development. I found myself wanting to underline multiple passages throughout the book as they struck me as so poignant and relevant to my own (decidedly non-magical) world. Powell understands her characters as fully-fleshed individuals and makes sure the reader does, too.

Can’t wait for the sequel!

[Ciari · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I want to say thank you for sending me an e-arc! I wish I would have started it sooner but life happens.

Anyways—I really enjoyed this story. It’s not often I read a book with a male mc (Beau) but I gave this one a chance and I’m happy I did! The story overall is very unique. I was excited to learn the MC wasn’t overpowered but his power is unique and still strong. I loved following Beau’s journey and his growth. And while the MC was great, thoroughly enjoyed the side characters and the found family that was created with them all. I’m excited to read more and see what’s to come.

Just a heads up, there are minor grammar mistakes that I noticed but nothing major (in my opinion) that would hinder anyone reading this story.

[Rick Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun adventure filled with twists and turns as Beau Hawthorne discovers he’s a gifted and must work with his new friends to find different gifted items. I enjoyed the action throughout this book the author did a great job filling out the characters and bringing the scenes to life. It was fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat, I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Kaitlin H. Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so excited to share Gifted with you all! This book is a love letter to the many books I loved as I grew up. To everyone who had a dream they always came back to, no matter how long it took, this book is for you.

[jeanie c. riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

They were killed few survived!

You will enjoy the characters! They try to change things but humans still preach hatred! Some gifted believe in hating humans! Enjoy!

[Mariyah Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perchance the best book I have read so far .

[Sasha Coles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Proud of you Kaitlin! 🥳

[K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished Powell's novel and I can say that I truly enjoyed every moment spent with this book. It's one of those gems where you can effortlessly pick up where you left off, making it a perfect companion for anyone with a busy schedule. The pacing of this book is spot-on, and the author weaves a story that keeps you turning pages, eager to see what happens next. It's the kind of book that you don't want to put down.

The characters in this story are incredibly personable, and their development throughout the narrative is both relatable and compelling. You find yourself celebrating their victories and empathizing with their challenges.

Powell's book invoked a sense of nostalgia and had the essence of some of my favorite series from high school, with all the excitement, adventure, and emotional depth that I enjoyed in those stories. However, it is still unique, offering a fresh perspective. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series!