Nawlins: School of the Gifted

by Deric Augustine

Welcome to Nawlins School of the Gifted, a prestigious all-Black academy for gifted
young wizards, where the vibrant culture of New Orleans intertwines with ancient
powers. Hidden from the world, this magical institution is a place where legacies are
forged, and young wizards uncover their extraordinary destinies.

For fifteen-year-old Donna Marie Guillory from the Bronx, life has always been a
battle—fighting for her mother’s health, for her family’s survival, and against a world that
often seems stacked against her. But when a letter arrives inviting her to Nawlins,
Donna discovers a hidden part of herself, a power she never knew she possessed.

At Nawlins, Donna finds more than a community; she uncovers a rich history and
strength unlike anything she’s ever known. However, as she delves into her family’s
mysterious past, she finds herself at the heart of a centuries-old conflict that threatens
the very foundation of the school and possibly the fate of the entire world.
Armed with her newfound abilities and unyielding determination,
Donna must navigate treacherous alliances and confront a darkness that
once tore her family apart. But she won't do it alone. An unexpected ally, someone
she believed she lost forever will stand by her side.

Nawlins is more than a story of magic , it celebrates resilience, heritage and the power of self discovery. Step into a world where the past shapes the present and every choice carries the weight of generations.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Black Author

383 pages, Paperback

Published August 5, 2025

Reviews

[Demetrius · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! That ending! 🤯. I can’t wait for the next book!

[MJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This YA fantasy had me hooked from page 1. I was completely invested in the FMC Donna throughout the whole book.

This book is what the black community needed when Harry Potter came out. Because representation matters and this book represented! I loved all of the NOLA culture and the snippets of NY spoke to my east coast soul (The wheat timbs in the summer!)
The world building wasn’t overwhelming and made the story very easy to follow.

The characters backstory, climax and the plot twist all lead up to a jaw dropping finale that I didn’t see coming. I look forward to seeing what’s next for this family.

I recommend this book to all! It’s also a great book if you are interested in dipping your toe into the fantasy pool ☺️

***I received this Advance readers copy in exchange for my honest review***

[Denisha’s Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had the absolute pleasure of seeing this book through start to finish. I have read every version of it and I must say this final one is brilliant.

It is thoughtful, exciting and my favorite ya fantasy book ever! I can’t wait to see this book take the world by storm.

[bookmarksandbarbells]

An actor from my favorite show wrote a book about magic in my favorite city?? YES x a million

[Octavia Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

More please!

I genuinely enjoyed this book so much. This book had everything. I cant wait to see what’s next for Lincoln.

[BrownBookNerd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome to Nawlins. A vibrant, magical world where the rich culture of New Orleans meets ancient wizardry.

Let me start by saying that this is a genre that I wouldn’t usually pick up but I’m so glad that I did. I enjoyed following Donna, a black girl, on her journey from the Bronx to discover her powers and family history at Nawlins School of the Gifted. This story was all about resilience, heritage, and self discovery.

This was just too good and I’m so happy I read it! Once I started, couldn’t put it down! Thank you to the author and PrettyGirlsDoRead for the advanced copy 🤎

[Lo✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing! The storyline, the history, the action—top tier.
Donna Marie’s journey felt heavy at times, like she was carrying so much more than she should, but she never stopped pushing forward. And when you realize that what she saw as shortcomings were really her powers waking up? Chills.

Nawlins was magical in every way—from the legacy-filled students to the rich culture, unique classes, and bold fashion styles repping hometown pride. But beneath all the sparkle is a deep history… and some truths about the Elders that don’t sit right in today’s world. 👀

And that cliffhanger?? Baby, I partially did NOT see that coming.
An absolute page-turner from start to finish.

✨ NAWLINS drops August 5th—get into it! ✨

#Nawlins #NawlinsSchooloftheGifted #DonnaMarie #PGDR #PrettyGirlsDoRead #BlackYAFantasy

[Angelbelle Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and PGDR for the early copy. All opinions are my own.

Let me find out I have magical powers. Y’all would be so sick of me 😂. Over here making concoctions and creating spells for any and everything

Donna and Lincoln’s relationship was so sweet and I loved how similar to one another they were. Both self-sacrificing and loyal to those they love

Lincoln took his role serious. The way he immediately went into protective mode and made sure she was straight 🥹💕

I wish sweet Donna could have stood up for herself a bit more because a couple of people deserved to be cussed out 😑. The way I would have waved my wand and “Kutoweka” and slapped some folks 🤷🏾‍♀️

Favorite character award definitely goes to Mr. Whiskers with his little feisty self 🏆 Cats really just go from best friend vibes to ignoring you like it’s nothing 🥴

But the way this story ended 😬😭 yikes

If you’re looking for a YA academia fantasy with strong family bonds add Nawlins to your tbr

[Brandy Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must read. It pulls you in on the very first page. Think Harry Potter but better. The secrets this school holds is unfolded perfectly throughout the book. Donna Marie lived her life mostly as a normal teen. What she thought was anxiety turns out to be her powers. An accident sends her to the emergency room and a nurse draws her blood and notices something that only wizards can see. She was invited to tour a school in New Orleans which she thought was for overachievers but she quickly finds out that it’s a front. She finds truth in the dreams that she has been having.

The writing style of this book is very enjoyable. That cliff hanger tho. lol

Can’t wait to she what unfolds in the next story. Will Donna save Link?
Will link let Jai teach him her ways?
Will Donna and Chad become a thing?
Questions that I need answers to. Deric did his BIG ONE with this story.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,25⭐

- Buddy read with Charlotte -

Gotta be honest, the reason I read it because it's written by Deric. But man, I am so glad I did! Loved the characters and the storyline. It was well written and the world building was good and not overwhelming. And then tat twist in the epilogue, can't say I saw that coming!! And it makes me even more curious for more.

[Orlanda · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have a lot of feelings about this book, the writing style, the lack of editing? Full review to come.
2 1/2-3 ⭐️

[Ja’Lia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nawlins by Deric Augustine is a deeply heartfelt YA fantasy that completely blew me away. Set in a hidden wizarding school in New Orleans, this book blends magic, culture, and personal identity in a way I’ve never seen before. Augustine’s writing is powerful and purposeful — every chapter pulses with emotion, heart, and soul.

We follow Donna Marie and Lincoln, two teens navigating not only a secret magical world but also the complex realities of family, legacy, and self-discovery. The worldbuilding is rich and original, deeply rooted in the spirit of New Orleans. The spells, the history, the politics — it all feels fresh and important. It’s a story about belonging, power, and resilience, with twists I didn’t see coming and an ending that left me needing book 2!!!

What makes Nawlins so special is how personal it feels. The characters are diverse, full of life, and unapologetically real. The themes of generational trauma, cultural pride, and the fight for change are handled with so much care. It’s not just a fantasy book — it’s a celebration of Black magic, strength, and identity.

If you’re looking for something new, soulful, and unforgettable in YA fantasy, Nawlins is it. Deric Augustine has written a debut that feels both revolutionary and long overdue. Five stars isn’t enough.

[DOMINIQUE Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Nawlins School of the Gifted by Deric Augustine is a refreshing and much needed addition to the YA fantasy genre. The story beautifully blends magic, family, culture, and history in a way that feels both new and familiar. From the rich New Orleans setting to the authentic dialogue and dynamic characters, this book pulls you into its world effortlessly. The pacing allows you to really connect with the main characters and their personal growth, while the magical elements and school dynamics keep you hooked from start to finish.

The world building is immersive without being overwhelming, and the way the author weaves in themes of resilience, found family, and self discovery gives the story so much heart. There are moments of humor, emotional depth, and plenty of twists that will leave you eager for the next book in the series. If you’re looking for a YA fantasy that brings something fresh to the genre while celebrating Black culture and community, this is definitely a must-read. Overall I give this a 4.25 ⭐️

[PrincezzBookie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great fantasy read. I think its been a minute since I have been so pulled into a fantasy and this one did it for me.
I was hooked by chapter 2.
I love the protectiveness that Donna has over her mom and their relationship. I love Aunt Jaquie, the is n so supportive and silly.
I know it was hard for Donna finding out all these hidden abilities, so for her to go and find some true friends was so sweet.
There is no shortness of craziness in this book, the twists were great and perfectly timed.
The ending!!! OMG when is the next book. This isn't so much of a cliffhanger but more of a...whats happening next. Can't wait to read more from this author.

[Morgan Gayles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finding out you’re a wizard, got a long lost brother, and have to help save all the students at your new magic school?? I mean yeah… finished reading in one setting. This was such a solid blend of fantasy and real NOLA history. Various layers of culture, grief, family ties, and southern resilience. The epilogue had me literally tossin’ my Kindle across the bed like… excuse me, WHAT?! Like be so serious right now! I was NOT ready for that twist, and I’m still tryna recover. All I know is that book two needs to be in my hands by Christmas, no excuses … You can’t just leave us with a Marvel-style post-credits scene like that LOL

[Shelby Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an incredible debut from Deric! And that epilogue!? 😭

I had such a fun time following Donna and Lincoln - who doesn't want to be in a world of wizards!? The world building was incredibly well done, it truly felt like being in New Orleans and the characters were so likeable (minus the odd few). The mystery between Donna and Lincoln had me hooked from the very beginning, I loved seeing all of the secrets unravel as the story went on. An amazing debut fantasy, you'd never know it was Deric's first ever novel!

[Shi_Bookish_Babe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast paced heartwarming seeing black wizard come together learning about the history and culture behind New Orleans the whole backstory and the ending with a cliffhanger.

[Nina · Rating 3 out of 5]

A solidly YA book, but I think one that would be a hit once it's found. It has a lot going on, including school drama, magical powers, and family trauma. A perfect mix.

[The Book Jawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was one of the lucky readers to receive an ARC copy of this book. Anytime I can read anything g fantasy or mystical, I am super happy and this book did not disappoint. For this to be debut novel, I must say that the author did a really great job. I particularly loved the FMC Donna Marie and not just because my mother’s name is the same but because of her tenacity. She did not back down to any challenge.

While I enjoyed this read, I felt like there were quite a few predictable plots and there was some fluff that made the book a little longer than it needed to be.

This book read just like a movie to me which made it that much enjoyable and I look forward to book 2.

[Sherley's Reading Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my second YA fantasy of 2025 and I’m already hooked. I absolutely love this genre, and 𝐍𝐚𝐰𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐬: 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐝 reminded me exactly why. These kinds of stories, when done well, don’t just entertain; they transport you to another world, one that is captivating and absolutely beautiful. 𝐍𝐚𝐰𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐬: 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐝 swept me away from the very first page.

Let’s talk about Donna and Lincoln, the unforgettable heart of this story. These two, at such young ages, displayed a strength I truly admired. When we meet Donna, she’s just 15, already burdened with adult responsibilities. With her father gone before she was born and her mother battling serious illness, Donna has taken on the role of provider, working to support her family. But everything changes when she receives an invitation to attend Nawlins, a magical school for the gifted. It’s there she discovers that she’s not just an ordinary girl. She’s a wizard with a rich history and unimaginable power.

Watching Donna grow was one of the highlights of the book. At first, she’s weighed down by her circumstances, unable to fully be a child. But once she’s at Nawlins, surrounded by other students like her, she begins to let go of some of those burdens. She finds a place where she belongs, where she can explore who she is beyond the struggle. Her journey is a beautiful blend of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. This is a true coming-of-age story, and the found family element gave it such heart and warmth.

Now, Lincoln, what a sweetheart he was! I really enjoyed seeing his bond with Tamia, and the way he protected and cared for Donna, even before the full truth of their connection was revealed, was so moving. He brought a quiet strength and compassion that balanced the story beautifully.

The secondary characters shined, too. I adored Chad and his friendship with Donna. And Mr. Whiskers, the cat? Instant favorite. Equal parts mysterious and adorable, he brought charm and a touch of magical intrigue every time he appeared.

The world-building was exceptional. Augustine brings New Orleans to life with stunning detail and cultural richness. The city isn’t just a setting. It’s a living, breathing character, full of rhythm, flavor, and history. The language, traditions, and spiritual heritage of Black culture are seamlessly woven into the story’s magical elements, grounding the fantasy in a deep and resonant truth.

And let’s not forget the plot twists. The final chapters had me reeling! They were packed with revelations, action, and emotional payoffs I didn’t see coming. At times, it felt like a thriller with the way it kept me guessing. Once I started, I had to finish it. I read the whole thing in a single day. No spoilers, but that ending? Let’s just say... I gasped out loud and flipped back through the last few pages in disbelief. Book two can’t come soon enough!

𝐍𝐚𝐰𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐬: 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐝 has it all: heart, history, magic, meaning, and a cast of characters I can’t wait to return to. If this is only the beginning of the series, I’m beyond excited for what’s next in this magical world.

[Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

If Wizards of Waverly Place and Harry Potter were to have a love child, that love child would, without a doubt, be Nawlins.

Nawlins is set in a vibrant, beautiful version of New Orleans, where the culture is deeply enriched by ancient wizardry.

Told in dual point of views, this book follows two characters, perfectly weaving their stories together in such a masterful way.

Donna Marie, a wizard that’s carrying the world on her shoulder, unaware that the load on her back, and the load on her mind, affect her magic.

For someone that is a teenager, she is carrying far more than she should, something that seems to be more and more of a reality outside of this magical universe, too.

Lincoln can be described in four words: fiercely protective and loyal. That is seen in how he is with his friends, his family and, more namely, in his relationship with Donna Marie.

Their relationship is born of a likemindedness. Their protective natures, the way that they are so immediately willing to keep those that they love and care for safe, regardless of the consequences for themselves.

Each character was so perfectly created, their humanity in the face of adversity and wizardry, portrayed in a beautiful, soulful, and unforgettable way.

The representation of anxiety was handled perfectly. It was one of the best and most realistic portrayals of anxiety that I have seen in any form of media, which is wild considering this book is fantasy. It weaved itself into the foundation of the storyline so well, it never felt out of place within the rest of the jam-packed story.

I often struggle when it comes to reading fantasy novels, but this wonderfully built magical world was written in a way that didn’t overcomplicate it all, but also not in a way that made it less interesting.

This book truly had me hooked from start to finish, and left me desperately yearning for more.

Despite it being his debut novel, Deric Augustine is a masterclass on how to create such beautiful character dynamics, build imaginative worlds, and brings a new life and vibrancy to the fantasy genre.

This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and it is also, without a doubt, one of my favourite reads of the year thus far, too.

I also have to mention the dedication and how truly heartwarming and beautiful that it was for Deric Augustine to dedicate his debut novel to his parents. In such a monumental move for his career, it shows the love that he has for his parents and how much he wants to make them proud. Rest assured, I think he will have done exactly that.

(Psst, Deric! If by any miracle you see this…a sequel, please?)

[NeiNey.ThaReadinDoula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bold. Black. Magical. A Must-Read YA Fantasy That EATS.

Listen. Nawlins by Deric Augustine? Yeah… this book pulled me in like a spell was cast on page one and didn’t let go until I was sitting on the edge of my bed, clutching my Kindle like it owed me answers. This debut? Not giving debut energy. It’s giving seasoned storyteller with a wand in one hand and my heart in the other.

Let’s talk about Donna Marie. Our girl thought she was dealing with anxiety but surprise, sis is a whole-ass wizard. One ER trip and a nurse peeping her bloodline later, she’s getting invited to a “prestigious” school in New Orleans that’s not what it seems. Think: hidden magic academy with secrets thicker than gumbo. The way this story unfolds? Chef’s kiss. Layered with culture, grief, power, and family legacy—it’s Harry Potter if Harry was a Black girl from NYC with a soft heart, a spine of steel, and actual community behind her.

And speaking of community... the characters?? I loved every last one of 'em (minus the ones who needed to be Kutoweka’d outta the storyline). Donna and Lincoln’s bond was so wholesome. Ride or die. Loyal. Protective. Soft, but in a way that still gets sh*t done. And baby, Mr. Whiskers? He had more attitude than half the humans I know. Easily my favorite sidekick.

Deric’s writing is fluid and cinematic—it wraps you in the humidity of the South and drops you into dreamscapes that feel both ancient and familiar. The pacing? Perfect. The worldbuilding? Rich but never overwhelming. And the drama?! Cliffhangers, dream revelations, family secrets, new powers, and yeah—maybe a love triangle. 👩🏾‍🍳💋

But that ending??? I literally asked myself “wait, what just happened?!” because that twist in the epilogue?? RUDE. Absolutely rude. I audibly gasped, then immediately checked for a preorder link. If I don’t have book two in my hands by Christmas, we’re gonna have to hex somebody.

This book represents. It’s what we deserved when fantasy shelves were full of castles but lacking color. From the wheat Timbs in the summer to the deep-rooted New Orleans magic, this is a story that feels ours.

If you're into:
Black girl magic (literally),
Found family with flair,
Coming of age meets coming into power,
Magical schools with dangerous secrets,
And cliffhangers that hurt a little…

Add Nawlins to your TBR immediately. Shoutout to Pretty Girls Do Read and Deric Augustine for the ARC—I’m officially a fan. And Deric? Go ahead and drop that sequel, because we’re not waiting patiently.

[Precious Francis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished Nawlins: School of the Gifted by Deric Augustine, and what a beautiful book!

First of all, I knew all along that the Chancellor was Augustine. I just knew instinctively! So when the revelation finally came, I wasn’t surprised.

Now, let’s talk about the build-up. It took about ten chapters to build the story, and I’m so glad the author took his time because it was incredibly creative. He introduces us to a magical world of wizards, where Donna discovers that she’s a wizard, and not just an ordinary one, but a very powerful one at that!

It reminded me so much of Harry Potter. Harry didn’t even know who he was until he entered the wizarding world, and suddenly everyone was fascinated by him. That’s exactly the feeling I got with Donna. I would describe this as a Black version of Harry Potter, and I mean that in the best possible way.

The book is beautifully written, with short chapters that are straight to the point. I initially expected some romance, but I’m actually so glad there wasn’t any. Instead, we got to experience the beauty of sibling love and friendship. The relationship between Donna and Lincoln, alongside the friendships throughout the story, was genuinely beautiful to read.

Now, the ending! The author left us with a rather open-ended conclusion which makes me believe there has to be a sequel. Especially now that Lincoln is a vampire! I really want to know how that storyline develops and what happens next.

All in all, this was such a beautiful read. Creative, engaging and wonderfully written. I thoroughly enjoyed it!

4 ⭐️

[Alisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would have never guessed this was a debut novel after finishing it. Nawlins touches on so many different aspects of the life of a young black woman trying to find her space in this world, that has really left me speechless. What touched me most was how the pacing of the book allowed for Donna's growth not to be rushed, but taken care of. It gave space for her pain, her longing, and the quiet ways she started to reclaim her voice. Donna literally just longed for the world to see her AS SHE WAS, and my girl fought hard to do so. Outside of the heaviness in this book, I enjoyed the comedic relief. MR.JENKINS?? That's my dawg forever. I really enjoyed the development of his character and I think he played a major role in my feelings towards this book. Overall. I would recommend this to literally anyone. I love the setting of the school, the magic, the comedy, the action, etc. I feel like it was well developed and Deric really took his time with this. I could see this being the perfect outlet for those who no longer support JKR and Harry Potter, but still long for the nostalgia of a school for wizards. Insert that plot twist at the end?? And now we have created a world that could literally go anywhere.

FAVORITE QUOTES:

"A wizards heart is the source of our power, she reminded herself. All those years, not knowing who she really was had kept her powers trapped in the locked cage of her heart. Maybe now she could finally be free."

[Jade A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nawlins ARC Review !!

Am I turning into a fantasy girly? I think yes!

This book was so satisfying from the very first chapter. A teenager finding out she's a wizard and gets accepted into a magical school in New Orleans - OK, Hogwarts, I see you!
Wands at the ready

The history in this book — set in Louisiana, the origins of the campus — was so rich and beautifully written. You can feel how passionate @dericaugustine was when writing. The historical layers didn't distract from the story; they elevated it, adding soul, atmosphere, and meaning.

The main character's journey of healing, finding a chosen family, uncovering long-hidden secrets, and finally feeling seen was incredibly moving. It filled a void — for her and for me as a reader. The themes of connection, identity, and belonging were so heartfelt.

And let's be real - it definitely gave Black Hogwarts, and I LOVED that. If you're a Harry Potter fan looking for something fresh, magical, and unapologetically rooted in culture and history, this is for you.

That cliffhanger, though?? Left me emotionally unwell. I need the next book yesterday.

So grateful to have read this ARC in advance, and I cannot wait for you all to experience it too.

[Lexx · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you sooo much to Pretty Girls Do Read & Deric Augustine for the ARC copy! 🫶🏾

I know this is Deric Augustin’s debut novel, but we can’t telllll! Nawlins was a 10/10 fantasy read that I can’t wait to put on my shelf! This book is literally everything you could ask for out of a fantasy novel. The worldbuilding? Tea. The characters? TEA. THE WRITING? T E A.

We meet Donna Marie at a crossroads point in her life: keep struggling to make ends meet or let this slightly weird woman who knows too much get you into a prestigious school? Obvi we know what she picks. This sends her on a whirlwind semester where she uncovers ALOT about her family—including that she might be the key to saving the Wizard world. Big shoes to fill for a teenager! She does find some help (and a boo or two) on the way 🤭

I loved all the characters in this book bad 😭 The way they all (minus a few) got behind Donna & Lincoln to save the world 🥺 true found family! I found myself giggling like I was apart of the cast 🥰 I hope we see all of them, especially Chadddddddddd, in the next book!

And allll imma say is…. READ THE EPILOGUE 🌚

[Winnie Quick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book healed 12 year old me who was looking for a YA magical fantasy with characters who looked and acted like me. I have a bunch of niblings so the slang the youth preferred is right up my alley. And it felt like I could hear the New Orleans and Bronx accents. Nawlins is so special. I even had the pleasure of attending Deric’s Open House (right before I started reading) where he answered a TON of questions about his creative process.

My favorite character is Mr. Whiskers, by a lot lol. He’s absolutely the perfect cat and conveys his periodic disinterest so well, but he has so much depth to his character. I giggled almost every time he popped up on the page. Levity aside, I cried a couple of times. Starting with the dedications, actually. So much emotion is evoked, and I immediately got attached to Donna Marie and Lincoln.

I’m not gonna be a spoiler queen. This book is amazing - I thought I had every major plot point figured out but that epilogue turned my world upside down. Y’all. If nothing else, the entire book is worth reading for the full effect of the ending. I received a copy of this book from the author via Pretty Girls Do Read and this is my honest review. Easiest 5 stars I’ve given in a while. No rounding necessary. Team Chad and Mr. Jenkins!

[Alexis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nawlins follows a 15 year old that’s going through a tough time in life. She’s facing many hardships, including dealing with her mother’s health. Everything changes when she receives a letter in the mail from Nawlins, a prestigious magical academy. Donna Marie soon discovers that she is a wizard and begins to unravel family secrets.

When I first heard about this book on TikTok a year ago, I knew I would enjoy it. The author did not disappoint with this book. The plot was very engaging, and the world building was easy to follow along. While reading the book, I could picture many of the scenes and appreciated the details. I also liked learning a bit of New Orleans history in the book. Now let’s talk about that ending… I need book two ASAP. That plot twist was good , I was like 50% right about it. I don’t think many people will guess it. Overall, I appreciated the flow of the book. For a debut novel, Deric Augustine did pretty well.

[Lourdes · Rating 5 out of 5]

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

This is a story that you won’t want to put down. You’ll fall in love with the characters, you’ll want to know what happens next on each page, and you may even be waiting by the mail box for your offer letter into Nawlins. Deric has created a story filled with New Orleans history intertwined with black teens/ young adults who all have magical powers. While you’re on a tour of New Orleans that you may not realize , you’re also getting to know the 5 members and their descendants of the Coven who all helped to create Nawlins school for the gifted. The story mainly focuses on Donna Marie who is a New York native teenager who realizes all the strange dreams she’s been having since forever , aren’t only dreams. She’ll discover she’s so much more in many ways.

This is the magical story I”ve been waiting for that can’t be compared to anything else. While I am an adult, I will patient wait to read this series in its entirety as it’s just that amazing.

[Ieshia Shephard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Deric! You know you had NO reason writing this book the way you wrote it! This book makes you feel like you’re in New Orleans! You can hear the accent from Hollygrove & different wards! You will smell those fresh beignets & hot chocolate, coffee, & herbal teas! The spices will dance across your tongue in the Cajun cuisines! To see BLACK characters that posses powers was so empowering! Going through some of OUR history gave me powers! Lincoln & Donna both navigating a new life that neither knew existed & to see the battles they experienced separately made them stronger together! I will say: THAT EPILOGUE!!!! Speechless! Once you start it, you will NOT want to put it down! 5 STARS ⭐️ Welcome to Nawlins, see what gifts are inside! #Nawlins #NawlinsSchooloftheGifted #DonnaMarie #PGDR #PrettyGirlsDoRead #BlackYAFantasy