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Girl with the Gifts
Transformation has a cost, and the price is everything she loves.
Aviana “Avi”, a perfume chemist, is about to earn the promotion she’s dreamed of. But when Pacific Perfume’s prized lavender oil is sabotaged, Avi becomes the convenient scapegoat.
Determined to clear her name, Avi plunges into a hidden world, forging unlikely alliances and drawing the attention of an enemy whose reach is ruthless and resolve relentless.
When her plan goes horribly wrong, she’s forced to partner with the last man she wants in her her ex-fiancé, Fritz.
Fritz can no longer keep his secret locked he isn’t human. She isn’t human.
They’re Grounders. And with each passing day, Avi’s dormant power, Slyfen, tests the limits of her control.
Fritz vies to stand by her side, but Avi must rise alone to become who she was never meant to be, for some truths burn hotter than fire.
Aviana “Avi”, a perfume chemist, is about to earn the promotion she’s dreamed of. But when Pacific Perfume’s prized lavender oil is sabotaged, Avi becomes the convenient scapegoat.
Determined to clear her name, Avi plunges into a hidden world, forging unlikely alliances and drawing the attention of an enemy whose reach is ruthless and resolve relentless.
When her plan goes horribly wrong, she’s forced to partner with the last man she wants in her her ex-fiancé, Fritz.
Fritz can no longer keep his secret locked he isn’t human. She isn’t human.
They’re Grounders. And with each passing day, Avi’s dormant power, Slyfen, tests the limits of her control.
Fritz vies to stand by her side, but Avi must rise alone to become who she was never meant to be, for some truths burn hotter than fire.
- GenresAudiobook
361 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
June 13, 2026
So this is definitely a book one, and please take that into consideration. When you rate and review and you're listening to this book because yeah, it's got some major questions that you're left with. And that usually happens with fantasy when you have a series. I don't know how many books is gonna end up being in this series. But at the very least 3, I'm guessing
Very action-packed and kind of bounces around a bit from one action to another because. Things are coming at this girl and they just keep on coming. They don't really like letting her breathe
So you've got hours upon hours of one thing. After another happening and it can get a little hard to
Keep track of which wear. Everything is going
But it does start getting better at the end, which is usually what happens in fantasy trilogies.The first book is a mass of everything.The second book sets up the stage for the third book, and the third book wraps it up in a little bow. And that is why I gave this a 4 star, because as a very least 3 book trilogy, for this story, it's about the same as most others. It throws a lot of information at you
And trying to keep it all straight does get a little hard, but that's why it's so long.
Very action-packed and kind of bounces around a bit from one action to another because. Things are coming at this girl and they just keep on coming. They don't really like letting her breathe
So you've got hours upon hours of one thing. After another happening and it can get a little hard to
Keep track of which wear. Everything is going
But it does start getting better at the end, which is usually what happens in fantasy trilogies.The first book is a mass of everything.The second book sets up the stage for the third book, and the third book wraps it up in a little bow. And that is why I gave this a 4 star, because as a very least 3 book trilogy, for this story, it's about the same as most others. It throws a lot of information at you
And trying to keep it all straight does get a little hard, but that's why it's so long.
June 16, 2026
✨ Book & Audiobook Review ✨
This story pulled me in fast with its mix of mystery, fantasy, and emotional angst—and it only got better from there.
Aviana “Avi” is on the verge of everything she’s worked for… until she’s framed for sabotage and her entire world comes crashing down. What starts as a fight to clear her name turns into something so much bigger—secrets, hidden identities, and a power inside her that refuses to stay buried.
And Fritz 😮💨
The ex-fiancé tension is EVERYTHING. The history, the heartbreak, and the secrets he’s been keeping add such a heavy emotional layer. Their dynamic is messy, complicated, and full of that second-chance angst we all love.
The fantasy elements—especially the reveal of the Grounders and Avi’s power, Slyfen—bring a darker, more dangerous edge to the story. Watching Avi struggle to control it while also finding her strength made her growth feel raw and real.
🎧 The audiobook takes it to another level.
Alexis Paige delivers such a powerful performance as Avi—you can feel every ounce of her fear, anger, and transformation.
Will Collyer brings depth and intensity to Fritz that makes his character even more compelling and emotionally charged.
Together, they create an immersive experience that makes it impossible to stop listening.
🔥 High-stakes fantasy
🔥 Second chance romance
🔥 Hidden identities & power awakening
🔥 Emotional, character-driven story
🔥 Incredible narration
What stood out most is that Avi’s journey is truly her own. She’s pushed to her limits, forced to confront who she is, and rises stronger—even when it costs her everything.
If you love fantasy with angst, tension, and powerful character growth—plus narration that fully brings it to life—this one is a must-listen. 🎧🔥
Because becoming who you’re meant to be… isn’t supposed to be easy.
This story pulled me in fast with its mix of mystery, fantasy, and emotional angst—and it only got better from there.
Aviana “Avi” is on the verge of everything she’s worked for… until she’s framed for sabotage and her entire world comes crashing down. What starts as a fight to clear her name turns into something so much bigger—secrets, hidden identities, and a power inside her that refuses to stay buried.
And Fritz 😮💨
The ex-fiancé tension is EVERYTHING. The history, the heartbreak, and the secrets he’s been keeping add such a heavy emotional layer. Their dynamic is messy, complicated, and full of that second-chance angst we all love.
The fantasy elements—especially the reveal of the Grounders and Avi’s power, Slyfen—bring a darker, more dangerous edge to the story. Watching Avi struggle to control it while also finding her strength made her growth feel raw and real.
🎧 The audiobook takes it to another level.
Alexis Paige delivers such a powerful performance as Avi—you can feel every ounce of her fear, anger, and transformation.
Will Collyer brings depth and intensity to Fritz that makes his character even more compelling and emotionally charged.
Together, they create an immersive experience that makes it impossible to stop listening.
🔥 High-stakes fantasy
🔥 Second chance romance
🔥 Hidden identities & power awakening
🔥 Emotional, character-driven story
🔥 Incredible narration
What stood out most is that Avi’s journey is truly her own. She’s pushed to her limits, forced to confront who she is, and rises stronger—even when it costs her everything.
If you love fantasy with angst, tension, and powerful character growth—plus narration that fully brings it to life—this one is a must-listen. 🎧🔥
Because becoming who you’re meant to be… isn’t supposed to be easy.
June 21, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of this audiobook. There is so many moving components in this and a lot is being thrown out but it doesn't deter from the overall narrative. In fact I felt like it enhanced it because you're getting the foundation, the basis, the facts, that are making this story while also leaving room for growth and more to come. As for the narration, Alexis Paige and Will Collyer did a fantastic job at narrating this. They were able to switch between the characters effortlessly. And they also brought out all the emotions in this book. It was easy to get lost in the story because of these narrators. They brought this book to life and had me fully invested from beginning to end. It is a well crafted fast-paced fantasy romance that will surprise you. I'm excited for the next piece of the story and can't wait to find out what's coming next. Thanks so much to High Gravity Productions and the author for a copy of this. All thoughts are my own and freely expressed.
June 24, 2026
I got pulled in from the very beginning of this book! The FMC has her entire world, everything she knows, turned upside down and she still worries about everyone around her. I feel that energy! The author left us hanging over a cliff! This is most definitely a book one and it is a hreat start! Can't wait to hear what comes next!
June 27, 2026
Unique plot. Interesting characters. Absolutely a 5 star read.
June 19, 2026
This book is full of heart mystery and
wonder. I am team Raiden all the way. what stood out most to me was the theme of embracing change and finding strength in who you are. Can't wait for the next sequel.
wonder. I am team Raiden all the way. what stood out most to me was the theme of embracing change and finding strength in who you are. Can't wait for the next sequel.
June 27, 2026
There were too many things that I loved about this story to list. The characters really come to life. And it was so difficult to choose between Raiden and Fritz. I chose Raiden by the way. The big secret reveal had me on the edge of my seat. Not a dull moment.
September 8, 2026
Girl with the Gifts by Joanna St. Amour
Fantasy * Paranormal * Hidden Identitites * Ex Fiance * Second Chance * Angst * Power Awakening (Magic) * Mystery
⭐⭐⭐🌶️?
📖361 pages 🎧12h54
🎙️Narrated by Alexis Paige and Will Collyer
First, please don't let my 3 star rating deter you if you're a big fan of heavy fantasy and intricate world-building. This rating is very much a reflection of my reading preferences, rather than me thinking this was a poorly written book. I do read heavier fantasy occasionally, but it's not something I naturally reach for. When there's a lot of lore, history, world-building, and detailed descriptions to absorb, it can take me a while to wrap my head around everything. And unfortunately, my brain has a tendency to go, “That's nice... anyway...” and wander off. That's what happened here a few times.
And honestly, I strongly suspect I would have rated this much higher if I were a bigger fantasy reader. There is an incredible amount of world-building and lore packed into this story. We have the Grounders, Slyfen powers, other worlds, magic, mysteries, and plenty of history and mythology to unpack. The author has clearly put a lot of thought into creating this world.
There isn't currently a series title or any information confirming whether this is going to become a series, but I'm honestly surprised if this is the end of this world. There is simply too much world left to explore. Maybe we'll continue following these characters, maybe we'll meet an entirely new cast, but I definitely feel like there are more stories hiding within this universe.
Now, let's address that 🌶️+❓. I accidentally didn't update my notes when I finished the book, and then I was delayed in writing this review. While I usually have a ridiculously good memory for the books I've read and can recall most of what happened, apparently my brain has decided that the answer to “Was there explicit spice?” is now classified information. I tried doing a quick search to confirm, but I couldn't find anyone specifically mentioning it, so I'm leaving the question mark there. There is a chance there wasn't any explicit spice at all. If you've read this one and remember better than I do, please feel free to save me from myself.
One thing I can say with absolute certainty is that I really enjoyed the audio narration. Alexis Paige and Will Collyer both did a fantastic job pulling me into the story. Poor FMC gets thrown from one situation into another with barely a moment to breathe, and Alexis especially did a great job conveying everything she was experiencing and keeping her reactions feeling believable within the fantasy setting.
Overall, this wasn't necessarily a book that perfectly matched my reading preferences, but I can absolutely see why it would work for someone who loves detailed fantasy worlds and getting completely immersed in the lore. And honestly, if that's your kind of fantasy, don't let my three stars scare you away. This one may be much more your cup of tea than mine.
Fantasy * Paranormal * Hidden Identitites * Ex Fiance * Second Chance * Angst * Power Awakening (Magic) * Mystery
⭐⭐⭐🌶️?
📖361 pages 🎧12h54
🎙️Narrated by Alexis Paige and Will Collyer
First, please don't let my 3 star rating deter you if you're a big fan of heavy fantasy and intricate world-building. This rating is very much a reflection of my reading preferences, rather than me thinking this was a poorly written book. I do read heavier fantasy occasionally, but it's not something I naturally reach for. When there's a lot of lore, history, world-building, and detailed descriptions to absorb, it can take me a while to wrap my head around everything. And unfortunately, my brain has a tendency to go, “That's nice... anyway...” and wander off. That's what happened here a few times.
And honestly, I strongly suspect I would have rated this much higher if I were a bigger fantasy reader. There is an incredible amount of world-building and lore packed into this story. We have the Grounders, Slyfen powers, other worlds, magic, mysteries, and plenty of history and mythology to unpack. The author has clearly put a lot of thought into creating this world.
There isn't currently a series title or any information confirming whether this is going to become a series, but I'm honestly surprised if this is the end of this world. There is simply too much world left to explore. Maybe we'll continue following these characters, maybe we'll meet an entirely new cast, but I definitely feel like there are more stories hiding within this universe.
Now, let's address that 🌶️+❓. I accidentally didn't update my notes when I finished the book, and then I was delayed in writing this review. While I usually have a ridiculously good memory for the books I've read and can recall most of what happened, apparently my brain has decided that the answer to “Was there explicit spice?” is now classified information. I tried doing a quick search to confirm, but I couldn't find anyone specifically mentioning it, so I'm leaving the question mark there. There is a chance there wasn't any explicit spice at all. If you've read this one and remember better than I do, please feel free to save me from myself.
One thing I can say with absolute certainty is that I really enjoyed the audio narration. Alexis Paige and Will Collyer both did a fantastic job pulling me into the story. Poor FMC gets thrown from one situation into another with barely a moment to breathe, and Alexis especially did a great job conveying everything she was experiencing and keeping her reactions feeling believable within the fantasy setting.
Overall, this wasn't necessarily a book that perfectly matched my reading preferences, but I can absolutely see why it would work for someone who loves detailed fantasy worlds and getting completely immersed in the lore. And honestly, if that's your kind of fantasy, don't let my three stars scare you away. This one may be much more your cup of tea than mine.
June 16, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed diving into Girl With The Gifts, a simply wonderful introduction to Joanna St. Amour, who is a brand-new author to me. From the very beginning, I was completely swept up and captivated by the beautiful fantasy world she has created, filled with exceptionally well-written characters and a storyline that I devoured in no time at all.
The plot follows Aviana “Avi,” a perfume chemist on the verge of a dream promotion, whose life is upended when she becomes the convenient scapegoat for a case of sabotaged lavender oil. Determined to clear her name, Avi plunges into a hidden world where she must forge unlikely alliances, drawing the attention of a ruthless and relentless enemy. When her plans go horribly wrong, she is forced to partner with the last man she wants in her life—her ex-fiancé, Fritz. However, Fritz is harboring a massive secret that he can no longer keep locked away: neither of them is human. They are Grounders, and with each passing day, Avi's dormant power, Slyfen, tests the limits of her control. Though Fritz vies to stand by her side, Avi must ultimately rise alone to become who she was never meant to be, proving that transformation has a cost, and some truths burn hotter than fire.
This incredible story is brought to life by the stellar duet narration of Alexis Paige and Will Collyer, whose performances made it easy to get lost in the magic. It is a beautifully crafted, fast-paced fantasy romance that I highly recommend.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The plot follows Aviana “Avi,” a perfume chemist on the verge of a dream promotion, whose life is upended when she becomes the convenient scapegoat for a case of sabotaged lavender oil. Determined to clear her name, Avi plunges into a hidden world where she must forge unlikely alliances, drawing the attention of a ruthless and relentless enemy. When her plans go horribly wrong, she is forced to partner with the last man she wants in her life—her ex-fiancé, Fritz. However, Fritz is harboring a massive secret that he can no longer keep locked away: neither of them is human. They are Grounders, and with each passing day, Avi's dormant power, Slyfen, tests the limits of her control. Though Fritz vies to stand by her side, Avi must ultimately rise alone to become who she was never meant to be, proving that transformation has a cost, and some truths burn hotter than fire.
This incredible story is brought to life by the stellar duet narration of Alexis Paige and Will Collyer, whose performances made it easy to get lost in the magic. It is a beautifully crafted, fast-paced fantasy romance that I highly recommend.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 18, 2026
Heads up - This book is book 1 in a series, there is nothing on the cover or in the description that tells you this, but the story does continue with more books.
This is a fantasy novel that follows a perfume chemist named Avi, whose life falls apart when she is framed for sabotage and then discovers hidden truths about herself.
To be honest, I really struggled with this one, and the writing style was just not for me at all. It felt way too over-described in a frustrating way, and I don't mean the world building, but in a 'telling me' everything rather than 'showing me' style of writing.
The plot and world building has a lot of information given to you. Between the heavy lore and the clunky writing, it felt like a bit of a chore to get through in places.
Avi gets pulled into a complex web involving dangerous secrets, new worlds, hidden identities, and her newly awakened powers. She finds out all her friends have been lying to her and nothing is as she thought it was. She never seemed too bothered that she'd been lied to by everyone she knew, just accepted it and moved on.
🎧 Listening to the performance by narrators Alexis Paige and Will Collyer is honestly the best part of the whole book. They do a fantastic job bringing distinct voices and personalities to the characters, making it much easier to get lost in the performance even when the story itself starts to drag. 🎧 #HighGravityProductions
📚 Fantasy
📚 Hidden identities
📚 Second chance romance
📚 Power awakening
📚 Mystery
This is a fantasy novel that follows a perfume chemist named Avi, whose life falls apart when she is framed for sabotage and then discovers hidden truths about herself.
To be honest, I really struggled with this one, and the writing style was just not for me at all. It felt way too over-described in a frustrating way, and I don't mean the world building, but in a 'telling me' everything rather than 'showing me' style of writing.
The plot and world building has a lot of information given to you. Between the heavy lore and the clunky writing, it felt like a bit of a chore to get through in places.
Avi gets pulled into a complex web involving dangerous secrets, new worlds, hidden identities, and her newly awakened powers. She finds out all her friends have been lying to her and nothing is as she thought it was. She never seemed too bothered that she'd been lied to by everyone she knew, just accepted it and moved on.
🎧 Listening to the performance by narrators Alexis Paige and Will Collyer is honestly the best part of the whole book. They do a fantastic job bringing distinct voices and personalities to the characters, making it much easier to get lost in the performance even when the story itself starts to drag. 🎧 #HighGravityProductions
📚 Fantasy
📚 Hidden identities
📚 Second chance romance
📚 Power awakening
📚 Mystery
June 28, 2026
Girl With the Gifts is an epic fantasy with mystery, suspense, intrigue, betrayal, family secrets and more. Aviana “Avi” is working as a perfume chemist and hoping for a promotion. On her way home one evening, she’s almost kidnapped. She’s rescued by Raiden who tells her he is a private detective. Avi asks for his help with a problem at work. Things take a turn in another direction and eventually she crosses paths with her ex-fiancé Fritz. However, Fritz gives her some startling news. What happens? Sit back, relax and get ready for a wild ride.
The duet narration by Alexis Paige and Will Collyer was beyond extraordinary. Alexis Paige was spectacular as sweet, kind, quiet, reserved, uncertain Avi. All of her fear, pain, anger, uncertainty, vulnerability, disbelief, strength, determination, growing confidence and love. She gave each and every female character their own unique voice and personality. Will Collyer was superb as sweet, possessive, obsessive, protective, loyal, loving Fritz and kind, caring Raiden. This audiobook was brought to life masterfully by these talented voice actors and High Gravity Productions. I highly recommend listening to this fabulous audiobook.
Thanks to the author and High Gravity Productions for this ALC.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Story 5 stars Narration 5 stars
The duet narration by Alexis Paige and Will Collyer was beyond extraordinary. Alexis Paige was spectacular as sweet, kind, quiet, reserved, uncertain Avi. All of her fear, pain, anger, uncertainty, vulnerability, disbelief, strength, determination, growing confidence and love. She gave each and every female character their own unique voice and personality. Will Collyer was superb as sweet, possessive, obsessive, protective, loyal, loving Fritz and kind, caring Raiden. This audiobook was brought to life masterfully by these talented voice actors and High Gravity Productions. I highly recommend listening to this fabulous audiobook.
Thanks to the author and High Gravity Productions for this ALC.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Story 5 stars Narration 5 stars
June 26, 2026
I enjoyed the blend of mystery, action, and second-chance romance as Avi is forced to confront both a dangerous conspiracy and the truth about who she really is.
Avi is an easy protagonist to root for as she goes from ambitious perfume chemist to discovering a world she never knew existed. The gradual reveal of the Grounders and the Slyfen powers kept me invested, and the reunion with her ex-fiancé, Fritz, added emotional tension without overshadowing the larger story. While the pacing slowed in a few places as the world-building unfolded, the payoff made it worthwhile.
The audiobook enhanced the experience. Alexis Page captures Avi’s determination, vulnerability, and growing confidence beautifully, while Will Collyer brings warmth and depth to Fritz, making his loyalty and hidden struggles feel authentic. Together, they create an engaging listening experience that brings the characters and emotional moments to life.
Avi is an easy protagonist to root for as she goes from ambitious perfume chemist to discovering a world she never knew existed. The gradual reveal of the Grounders and the Slyfen powers kept me invested, and the reunion with her ex-fiancé, Fritz, added emotional tension without overshadowing the larger story. While the pacing slowed in a few places as the world-building unfolded, the payoff made it worthwhile.
The audiobook enhanced the experience. Alexis Page captures Avi’s determination, vulnerability, and growing confidence beautifully, while Will Collyer brings warmth and depth to Fritz, making his loyalty and hidden struggles feel authentic. Together, they create an engaging listening experience that brings the characters and emotional moments to life.
June 13, 2026
3.5 stars rounded up:
Overall once I got into this story I enjoyed it it wasn't what I was expecting and it ended without finishing out the full story but I would like to check out the next in the series to find out where it goes next.
The narrators did a good job with this story and kept me wanting to know what would happen next.
Thank you to the author and High Gravity Audio for this ALC copy!
I wrote a longer review on my blog: https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...
*High Gravity Audio books ALC *Romantic Fantasy *Slow Burn *Elemental Abilities
*found family *Family drama *love triangle (kind of) *mystery *just kisses *action
*Ending *secrets revealed
Overall once I got into this story I enjoyed it it wasn't what I was expecting and it ended without finishing out the full story but I would like to check out the next in the series to find out where it goes next.
The narrators did a good job with this story and kept me wanting to know what would happen next.
Thank you to the author and High Gravity Audio for this ALC copy!
I wrote a longer review on my blog: https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...
*High Gravity Audio books ALC *Romantic Fantasy *Slow Burn *Elemental Abilities
*found family *Family drama *love triangle (kind of) *mystery *just kisses *action
*Ending *secrets revealed
August 18, 2026
I was not prepared for The Girl With The Gifts, it had me hooked from the first few chapters. This was an amazing fast paced fantasy that laid out the story in the perfect way that you were never confused. Avi (FMC) never thought she was anything but human, but she’s no human, she’s a grounder. Her group of friends were also her secret protectors, the action will keep your heart pumping from beginning to end. You will disappear in to the world of The Girl With The Gifts, and not be the same. Alexis Paige and William Collyer did such an amazing job bringing this book to life. They voiced all the characters so well, and every one of them sounded unique. The way the book ended made me feral for what’s to come.
June 17, 2026
This fantasy blends mystery, emotional angst, and high stakes into a captivating story. Avi’s journey from betrayal to self-discovery is compelling, while the tension-filled history with Fritz adds plenty of heartache and depth.
The audiobook is especially impressive, with Alexis Paige and Will Collyer delivering performances that bring every emotion to life. A strong pick for fans of character-driven fantasy with secrets, romance, and hard-earned growth.
The audiobook is especially impressive, with Alexis Paige and Will Collyer delivering performances that bring every emotion to life. A strong pick for fans of character-driven fantasy with secrets, romance, and hard-earned growth.
June 22, 2026
🎧💜 This was such a unique listen! I went in expecting a fantasy romance and got a whole lot more. Perfume chemistry, hidden powers, secrets, betrayals, and an ex-fiancé forced back into the picture👀 Sign me up. Avi’s journey from disgraced chemist to discovering who she really is kept me hooked. Alexis Paige and Will Collyer did a great job bringing the story to life, and now I need to know what happens next. 🎧✨📚💜
July 3, 2026
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. The action scenes were well written. It was suspenseful not knowing what was going to happen next. I'm not sure what to think of the love triangle. This book has action, secret identity, magic, mystery and plenty of wtf moments.
Did Not Finish
June 29, 2026This got so odd so fast. It just was not going well together. I wasn’t very interested in the characters and the whole perfume thing seemed so trivial.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews