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Gifted: Book one of The Fated Series
Not yet published
Expected 25 Mar 26439 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 25, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of Advanced Reader Copy from Author
Just wow! Was a bit of a slow start but that was necessary in building this awesome world of deception and magic. Merrin is such a strong, smart princess that was drastically underestimated by so many. Her journey in finding her true strength and growth is just amazing. You go through all her ups and downs with her, feeling her happy moments, harsh times and realizations. I really wanted to just give her the biggest hug!
Once I was drawn in I couldn't put this down. There is a cliffhanger but just wow it had me grasping for the next moment and now I'm waiting to see if my thoughts were right. Yes, there is a plot twist and omg, it really threw me!
This is a must read! Love, love, love!
Just wow! Was a bit of a slow start but that was necessary in building this awesome world of deception and magic. Merrin is such a strong, smart princess that was drastically underestimated by so many. Her journey in finding her true strength and growth is just amazing. You go through all her ups and downs with her, feeling her happy moments, harsh times and realizations. I really wanted to just give her the biggest hug!
Once I was drawn in I couldn't put this down. There is a cliffhanger but just wow it had me grasping for the next moment and now I'm waiting to see if my thoughts were right. Yes, there is a plot twist and omg, it really threw me!
This is a must read! Love, love, love!
February 14, 2026
I was given an advanced copy of this title in exchange for my honest review: That being said , I will be purchasing a copy of Gifted for myself and a few others for friends who will love it as much as I did. I ate this story up so quickly, sucked into the story and dying to find out how it ends, I had to go back and read it again to give the author a review it is worthy of her dedication to her characters.
Gifted is a breath of fresh air in a market of fantasy saturated with copy/paste tropes. KD Harding guides the reader through a mystery of self empowerment, found family, and no one is what they appear to be. Merrin a princess is trying to prove her ability to lead by entering the magical academy instead of just having the crown passed to her from her queen mother. There she not not only finds her own strength of character- but she meets a badass best friend Laya, tries to avoid her arranged betrothed, faces the changes in her childhood best friend, and learns that no one is what you think.
KD Harding takes you through past and present though glimpses via magic to build the characters and weaves emotional attachments to even the minor characters with seamless storytelling. Any part of the story that I felt was choppy and amateur is purposeful and partially explained by the ending. This debut novel shows that a good story told by a master does not need spice to keep you on the edge of your seat wanting more. I am excited to see how KD Harding continues this entrancing fantasy.
Gifted is a breath of fresh air in a market of fantasy saturated with copy/paste tropes. KD Harding guides the reader through a mystery of self empowerment, found family, and no one is what they appear to be. Merrin a princess is trying to prove her ability to lead by entering the magical academy instead of just having the crown passed to her from her queen mother. There she not not only finds her own strength of character- but she meets a badass best friend Laya, tries to avoid her arranged betrothed, faces the changes in her childhood best friend, and learns that no one is what you think.
KD Harding takes you through past and present though glimpses via magic to build the characters and weaves emotional attachments to even the minor characters with seamless storytelling. Any part of the story that I felt was choppy and amateur is purposeful and partially explained by the ending. This debut novel shows that a good story told by a master does not need spice to keep you on the edge of your seat wanting more. I am excited to see how KD Harding continues this entrancing fantasy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
Gifted is a compelling YA fantasy with a unique magic system that immediately sets it apart.
Merrin’s growth was one of the strongest elements of the book. Watching her gradually come into herself felt authentic and earned. The concept of the trials added tension and structure to the story, and I really liked how the two trials unfolded, they felt purposeful rather than just obstacles to move the plot forward. Her individual task in Orien’s desert was a standout moment for me, it challenged her in ways that deepened both her confidence and her understanding of who she is. Those quieter but intense moments of personal reckoning really elevated the story.
Her gang of friends was endearing, and I appreciated how their relationships evolved naturally over time. The found-family dynamic felt genuine, and each character had space for individual development rather than blending into the background.
Overall, this was an engaging and imaginative read. The magic system was fresh, the trials were compelling, and the character arcs were satisfying. A strong 4/5 stars from me.
Gifted is a compelling YA fantasy with a unique magic system that immediately sets it apart.
Merrin’s growth was one of the strongest elements of the book. Watching her gradually come into herself felt authentic and earned. The concept of the trials added tension and structure to the story, and I really liked how the two trials unfolded, they felt purposeful rather than just obstacles to move the plot forward. Her individual task in Orien’s desert was a standout moment for me, it challenged her in ways that deepened both her confidence and her understanding of who she is. Those quieter but intense moments of personal reckoning really elevated the story.
Her gang of friends was endearing, and I appreciated how their relationships evolved naturally over time. The found-family dynamic felt genuine, and each character had space for individual development rather than blending into the background.
Overall, this was an engaging and imaginative read. The magic system was fresh, the trials were compelling, and the character arcs were satisfying. A strong 4/5 stars from me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2026
I absolutely love ALL of the book and can’t wait to see what happens next! The twist took me by COMPLETE surprise even though I anticipated some big reveals at the end. I’m hoping to see more dragon action in future books and can’t wait to see how Merrin & Laya work things out!
The world building was perfect. Many books, I find, do it in a way that bores me to tears, but yours was perfect and kind of spread out, which makes that part much more enjoyable.
The storyline is so addictive and there is soooo much room for twists and turns and surprises! I just really am intrigued to see which direction she goes with the story and will absolutely be reading any book K.D Harding writes in the future. First book?! Ma’am?? I would have never known that from reading this book.
The world building was perfect. Many books, I find, do it in a way that bores me to tears, but yours was perfect and kind of spread out, which makes that part much more enjoyable.
The storyline is so addictive and there is soooo much room for twists and turns and surprises! I just really am intrigued to see which direction she goes with the story and will absolutely be reading any book K.D Harding writes in the future. First book?! Ma’am?? I would have never known that from reading this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fourth Wing meets From Blood and Ash meets The Black Mage series!!! An astounding world of magic and gods, good and bad. Going to be a favorite series of all ages!! New and unique takes on a favorite genre, with wonderful imagery and storytelling! 10/10 book that will have a dedicated spot in my personal library!! Cannot recommend this book enough to friends and family, hoping everyone reads this!!!
February 15, 2026
I enjoyed every second of this book, it draws you in from the very beginning ! I love when a book hooks you right away and builds the world as you go. I have been in a bit of a reading slump but this cured it. If you like fantasy you definitely need to give it a try ! Great book and safe for those that don't want spice. Thankful I got the chance to be a arc reader for Gifted.,it is one I need to buy for my shelf.
Review of advance copy
OMG. Do yourself a favor and get this book, you will not be disappointed. Imagine being one of the first to start a new series that you know for sure will be on everyone's top 5 list. Grab your cup of coffee and favorite candy sit back and enjoy the journey this book takes you through. Recommend for everyone
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book genuinely surprised me—in the best way. As someone who reads a lot of fantasy, I’m usually pretty good at spotting the twists before they land. That wasn’t the case here. I kept thinking I had a handle on where the story was heading, and I was wrong more than once. That unpredictability alone made the reading experience feel fresh and exciting.
The pacing is fast, and at times the transitions felt a little abrupt or jumpy. That said, it never pulled me out of the story. If anything, it added to the urgency of everything unfolding around Merrin. For a debut novel, it’s impressive. The scope of the world, the political tension, the magic, and the emotional stakes are ambitious, and K.D. Harding handles them with confidence.
One of the strongest elements is the world-building. It’s layered in naturally rather than delivered in heavy blocks of exposition, which makes it easy to stay immersed. The academy setting, the trials, and the undercurrent of shifting loyalties all create a story that feels expansive without being overwhelming.
Merrin is a compelling lead—determined, flawed, and driven to prove she is more than her title. Her relationships, especially with Laya, add heart to the story. The dynamic between strength, vulnerability, and loyalty is handled well, and the side characters feel purposeful rather than decorative. There’s clearly more to uncover with several of them, which makes me curious to see how future books will develop their arcs.
What stood out most to me is that this story doesn’t rely on predictable tropes or unnecessary embellishments to hold attention. It’s character-driven, layered with mystery, and confident in its own direction. You can see the foundation for something much bigger being built.
For a first book, Gifted sets a high bar. I’m looking forward to seeing where the series goes next.
The pacing is fast, and at times the transitions felt a little abrupt or jumpy. That said, it never pulled me out of the story. If anything, it added to the urgency of everything unfolding around Merrin. For a debut novel, it’s impressive. The scope of the world, the political tension, the magic, and the emotional stakes are ambitious, and K.D. Harding handles them with confidence.
One of the strongest elements is the world-building. It’s layered in naturally rather than delivered in heavy blocks of exposition, which makes it easy to stay immersed. The academy setting, the trials, and the undercurrent of shifting loyalties all create a story that feels expansive without being overwhelming.
Merrin is a compelling lead—determined, flawed, and driven to prove she is more than her title. Her relationships, especially with Laya, add heart to the story. The dynamic between strength, vulnerability, and loyalty is handled well, and the side characters feel purposeful rather than decorative. There’s clearly more to uncover with several of them, which makes me curious to see how future books will develop their arcs.
What stood out most to me is that this story doesn’t rely on predictable tropes or unnecessary embellishments to hold attention. It’s character-driven, layered with mystery, and confident in its own direction. You can see the foundation for something much bigger being built.
For a first book, Gifted sets a high bar. I’m looking forward to seeing where the series goes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Huge thanks to K.D. Harding for the ARC e-copy of her debut YA fantasy "The Gifted" Book 1 of the Fated Series! Let me tell you, she did NOT disappoint. For a debut novel, I was incredibly impressed. 👏I read a lot of fantasy and romantasy (both Adult and YA), and The Gifted is right up there with the best. It gives off major Fourth Wing Basgiath vibes mixed with the trials beneath the mountain in ACOTAR.
What to expect:
*Found Family & Shifting Allegiances
*Unique Magic System & Menacing New Monsters
*High-Stakes Trials & Deep Mystery
While the world-building takes a moment to settle into (as with any new series), I was hooked from the start. The pacing is incredibly fast, drifting between the real world, memories, and a dream world—I was constantly on the edge of my seat!
I loved the dual female leads. Princess Merrin, the heir apparent and army leader, is so determined to prove she can inspire her people, not just rule them. Then there's her best friend, Laya, who has the fiercest personality. Their bond as they navigate Frallia Academy is the heart of the book.
With so many "incidents", twists, and undetermined alliances, I truly didn't know who to trust. K.D. keeps you guessing until the very last chapter. AND THAT ENDING!? Oof! I am dying for Book 2 & I’m definitely adding the physical copies to my collection. Well done, K.D.!
Quote from the book "THROUGH FIRE AND BLOOD YOU WILL BE REBORN"
What to expect:
*Found Family & Shifting Allegiances
*Unique Magic System & Menacing New Monsters
*High-Stakes Trials & Deep Mystery
While the world-building takes a moment to settle into (as with any new series), I was hooked from the start. The pacing is incredibly fast, drifting between the real world, memories, and a dream world—I was constantly on the edge of my seat!
I loved the dual female leads. Princess Merrin, the heir apparent and army leader, is so determined to prove she can inspire her people, not just rule them. Then there's her best friend, Laya, who has the fiercest personality. Their bond as they navigate Frallia Academy is the heart of the book.
With so many "incidents", twists, and undetermined alliances, I truly didn't know who to trust. K.D. keeps you guessing until the very last chapter. AND THAT ENDING!? Oof! I am dying for Book 2 & I’m definitely adding the physical copies to my collection. Well done, K.D.!
Quote from the book "THROUGH FIRE AND BLOOD YOU WILL BE REBORN"
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review | 4.5⭐️
I really enjoyed Gifted, and it’s absolutely earning a spot on my ARC trophy shelf. I’ll be honest though, there were a few moments where I felt a little lost and wasn’t totally sure what was happening. That might’ve been intentional, because by the time I hit the end… the twist had me questioning everything.
Merrin is a princess determined to prove she’s worthy of leading, so instead of simply inheriting the crown from her queen mother, she chooses to enter a magical academy and earn her place. While she’s there, she doesn’t just find her strength, she’s forced to grow through every complication possible: meeting her badass best friend Laya (we love a strong side character), trying to dodge an arranged betrothal, navigating the unsettling changes in her childhood best friend, and realizing very quickly that no one is quite what they seem. There’s so much underlying tension.
The story kept me turning pages because it constantly felt like something bigger was building under the surface. Just hoping questions would be answered. There’s so much room for plot twists, turns, and surprises going forward, and I’m genuinely excited to see where the K.D. takes the next book.
Also… I’m going to need book two to come with way more dragons.
I really enjoyed Gifted, and it’s absolutely earning a spot on my ARC trophy shelf. I’ll be honest though, there were a few moments where I felt a little lost and wasn’t totally sure what was happening. That might’ve been intentional, because by the time I hit the end… the twist had me questioning everything.
Merrin is a princess determined to prove she’s worthy of leading, so instead of simply inheriting the crown from her queen mother, she chooses to enter a magical academy and earn her place. While she’s there, she doesn’t just find her strength, she’s forced to grow through every complication possible: meeting her badass best friend Laya (we love a strong side character), trying to dodge an arranged betrothal, navigating the unsettling changes in her childhood best friend, and realizing very quickly that no one is quite what they seem. There’s so much underlying tension.
The story kept me turning pages because it constantly felt like something bigger was building under the surface. Just hoping questions would be answered. There’s so much room for plot twists, turns, and surprises going forward, and I’m genuinely excited to see where the K.D. takes the next book.
Also… I’m going to need book two to come with way more dragons.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was given a copy of this by the author prepublication. This is my first Arc to read and review. That being said I couldn’t have been happier to have this as my first arc. The detail and world building is absolutely amazing. It pulls you in giving a vivid picture of the magical world she has created.
If you love fantasy with academia and trials this book is for you. The FMC is a strong empowering female. The friends she makes along the way help her character grow and realize she isn’t as alone as she thought. She doesn’t like the status quo and is determined to change it.
I love most how detailed the book was. I never knew what direction it was going. I never knew what was going to happen next which is refreshing. The side characters to me are important. I liked the side characters that were created I wished there would have been more back story on some of them. We got snippets and I’m sure as the story unfolds through more books we will get them. Overall I loved the book and can’t wait for book 2!
If you love fantasy with academia and trials this book is for you. The FMC is a strong empowering female. The friends she makes along the way help her character grow and realize she isn’t as alone as she thought. She doesn’t like the status quo and is determined to change it.
I love most how detailed the book was. I never knew what direction it was going. I never knew what was going to happen next which is refreshing. The side characters to me are important. I liked the side characters that were created I wished there would have been more back story on some of them. We got snippets and I’m sure as the story unfolds through more books we will get them. Overall I loved the book and can’t wait for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
When I stumbled upon one of K.D's posts on TikTok about this book, I knew immediately that it was one I wanted to read. And then when ARC signups were open I RAN to fill it out. And let me tell you- I'm so glad I did and so grateful to have been accepted.
It's been a long time since I've been immediately drawn into a story and invested in it from page one. PAGE ONE!!
I was constantly theorizing and making notes only for those theories to have been completely wrong 😂 and I'm not mad about it- cause that plot twist was way better than what I was thinking anyways lol.
If you love trials, an academy setting, witty banter, found family, magic and secrets- I highly recommend giving this one a go. It'll be out in the world for everyone to enjoy on March 25, 2026!
Thank you so so much, K.D, for allowing me the honor of ARC reading your debut! I cannot wait for everyone else to love it as much as I did and to see what you've got hidden up your sleeve for Merrin and Co next!
It's been a long time since I've been immediately drawn into a story and invested in it from page one. PAGE ONE!!
I was constantly theorizing and making notes only for those theories to have been completely wrong 😂 and I'm not mad about it- cause that plot twist was way better than what I was thinking anyways lol.
If you love trials, an academy setting, witty banter, found family, magic and secrets- I highly recommend giving this one a go. It'll be out in the world for everyone to enjoy on March 25, 2026!
Thank you so so much, K.D, for allowing me the honor of ARC reading your debut! I cannot wait for everyone else to love it as much as I did and to see what you've got hidden up your sleeve for Merrin and Co next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was given the chance to be an ARC reader for a new book, Gifted by K.D. Harding. Gifted is a fantasy novel about Merrin Gan, heir to the Elfkin throne. In order to prove she is NOT like her mom, the queen, she enters the magical academy. Along the way, she discovers that people aren’t who she thought they were, which ends up being good in many ways but also not good in others. There are many secrets that she has to unravel while at the academy, all while becoming the heir that she wants to be for her kingdom. There are gods, new kinds of magic, and even dragons! This book is a refreshing change to the normal fantasy genre. I am so grateful I was able to review the book and I look forward to reading more in the series! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was A- mazing!!!
I loved the whole thing the world building, the characters, the secrets, Trials everything!
Merrin the FMC is a bada$$ i love her character. I enjoyed that she grew from the beginning being closed off to fully opening herself up by the end.
The side characters were also great. especially Laya. She is a fierce friend even if there is some secrets.
I cannot wait to see what happens with Sieros in the future.
That ending geeze what a cliffhanger! So thankful for being to recieve an arc of this book. I hope book 2 is in the works I cannot wait ❤️
I loved the whole thing the world building, the characters, the secrets, Trials everything!
Merrin the FMC is a bada$$ i love her character. I enjoyed that she grew from the beginning being closed off to fully opening herself up by the end.
The side characters were also great. especially Laya. She is a fierce friend even if there is some secrets.
I cannot wait to see what happens with Sieros in the future.
That ending geeze what a cliffhanger! So thankful for being to recieve an arc of this book. I hope book 2 is in the works I cannot wait ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I couldn’t put this book down. I was given an advanced copy of this book and it had so many twists, so mysterious. I have more questions than answers. I will say it switched perspectives twice I believe and I had to guess who the person was, that’s the only problem I came across. Which im sure will be fixed or was done on purpose to keep us guessing but, I’m ready for book 2 and this one hasn’t been published yet. I absolutely enjoyed this book and cannot wait for your future projects. 5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
K.D. Harding's debut novel is a welcome change to the world of fantasy. The story starts slow, laying much needed groundwork for the rest of the story. Just when you think you understand what is happening, the next chapter reveals you know nothing. The betrayal, secrets, and found family are all what you might expect in a fantasy novel but have been done in a new way that leaves you wanting the next book immediately.
K.D. Harding's debut novel is a welcome change to the world of fantasy. The story starts slow, laying much needed groundwork for the rest of the story. Just when you think you understand what is happening, the next chapter reveals you know nothing. The betrayal, secrets, and found family are all what you might expect in a fantasy novel but have been done in a new way that leaves you wanting the next book immediately.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As someone who reads a lot of fantasy, but finds them to be repetitive, I really enjoyed reading Gifted! The friendship that blossoms between Merrin and Laya stole my heart. Everyone needs a Laya in their life. A confident, strong woman who knows when a good manicure is needed.
I am so excited for book 2 and thankful that I was given the opportunity as an ARC reader! The plot twist had me so anxious and reading as fast as I could. Counting down the days until the next one!
I am so excited for book 2 and thankful that I was given the opportunity as an ARC reader! The plot twist had me so anxious and reading as fast as I could. Counting down the days until the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
It was slow to get into, but that’s mostly cause of all the world building and character introductions.
It’s a romantasy, but heavy on fantasy.
It’s giving Fourth Wing Vibes, but where Merrin is giving Mira and not Violet. She’s strong and knows herself. She cares and doesn’t trust easy (with plenty of reason).
Fantasy academia, with war school vibes. I loved the found family trope in this one.
It definitely wound up sucking me in, and now I need book 2 ASAP.
It’s a romantasy, but heavy on fantasy.
It’s giving Fourth Wing Vibes, but where Merrin is giving Mira and not Violet. She’s strong and knows herself. She cares and doesn’t trust easy (with plenty of reason).
Fantasy academia, with war school vibes. I loved the found family trope in this one.
It definitely wound up sucking me in, and now I need book 2 ASAP.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I did get this book as an arc read but these are my own personal thoughts and feelings. This book hooked me from the very beginning! I absolutely loved Merrin and watching her character growth. My favorite character definitely is Laya, she was just so funny, kind, an amazing friend, and very skilled 🤭. I definitely recommend this book and can’t wait to jump back into this world when the next book(s) come out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was given the opportunity to be an arc reader for Gifted. This book started out with the world building which I appreciate so much. It really helped me understand this world I was delving into. I am loving the characters so far and can’t wait to continue reading this and more from K.D. Harding.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really loved being an ARC reader for this book. I found myself getting lost in Merrin's world and not able to put my kindle down. The way you get pulled in and left wanting more was great. I loved this fantasy and how you just never knew what was going to come next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Can’t wait for more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Was given the opportunity to ARC read this, and it was really my pleasure. This book has all the good tropes, Dark akademia is one of my big weaknesses. The worldbuilding did not lack anything, the story development was good and we do love the twists. Without furter ado, this is one if my top ARCs, it is a good time and well spent one as well. Thank you to the author, I will be sure to follow you along your journey! give yourself a good clap on the shoulder, well done.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews