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Tabitha Unleashed
“I’ll risk anything to save her. Even the secret of what I am.”
Tabitha Griffin has plenty of things making her life hell—guilt, fear, shame, that suicide attempt thing, and her twin sister’s cancer.
But nothing terrifies her more than being the center of attention.
So naturally, she enters the biggest televised talent competition in the country to win the million-dollar prize that could save her sister’s life.
There’s just one problem.
Tabitha isn’t performing an illusion.
The impossible things she does on stage are real.
As the competition turns her into a national sensation, Tabitha finds friendship, first love, and a reason to believe she might deserve a future after all. But when a growing political movement turns her into an unwilling symbol of queer resistance, every secret she’s fought to protect begins unraveling.
It’s all a distraction from winning the competition. But as her two worlds collide, Tabitha must choose which secrets to keep, which to reveal—and to whom.
Because saving her sister’s life is the only way to save her own.
Tabitha Griffin has plenty of things making her life hell—guilt, fear, shame, that suicide attempt thing, and her twin sister’s cancer.
But nothing terrifies her more than being the center of attention.
So naturally, she enters the biggest televised talent competition in the country to win the million-dollar prize that could save her sister’s life.
There’s just one problem.
Tabitha isn’t performing an illusion.
The impossible things she does on stage are real.
As the competition turns her into a national sensation, Tabitha finds friendship, first love, and a reason to believe she might deserve a future after all. But when a growing political movement turns her into an unwilling symbol of queer resistance, every secret she’s fought to protect begins unraveling.
It’s all a distraction from winning the competition. But as her two worlds collide, Tabitha must choose which secrets to keep, which to reveal—and to whom.
Because saving her sister’s life is the only way to save her own.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
October 9, 2026
.to be ready for that one moment that may never come...
I may not have been the target demographic but Tabitha Unleashed resonated with my inner angsty adolescent self with its urban voice, coming-of-age battle of good and evil, and message of perseverance and courage in the face of heartbreak and shame.
The heroine Tabitha 'Tabby' Griffin is a teenage girl with telekinesis that is connected her emotions. And what is more emotionally stable than a teenage girl? Literally anything else and add in being queer in a red state and twin sister fighting terminal cancer, no one could fault Tabby for being a powder keg. What impacted me the most about Tabby's journey was how she found her way through her self loathing and with a little help learns what triggers and how to channel her rage.
Tabitha's opening act on the in-world talent show American Phenom is called 'Dancing Dollars', a eloquent allusion to the key external conflict of the novel; capitalism and how it is wielded to keep those in power at the top. At first it is securing funds for a experimental cancer treatment for her twin sister Kayla but losing funding is also threat that gets Tabitha's new life line, her girlfriend Becca's dance team suspended and later on the freezing of GoFundMe donations for Kayla. At every turn it really feels like Tabby is being struck down but The Scarlett Storm is coming and she hates injustice.
I may not have been the target demographic but Tabitha Unleashed resonated with my inner angsty adolescent self with its urban voice, coming-of-age battle of good and evil, and message of perseverance and courage in the face of heartbreak and shame.
The heroine Tabitha 'Tabby' Griffin is a teenage girl with telekinesis that is connected her emotions. And what is more emotionally stable than a teenage girl? Literally anything else and add in being queer in a red state and twin sister fighting terminal cancer, no one could fault Tabby for being a powder keg. What impacted me the most about Tabby's journey was how she found her way through her self loathing and with a little help learns what triggers and how to channel her rage.
Tabitha's opening act on the in-world talent show American Phenom is called 'Dancing Dollars', a eloquent allusion to the key external conflict of the novel; capitalism and how it is wielded to keep those in power at the top. At first it is securing funds for a experimental cancer treatment for her twin sister Kayla but losing funding is also threat that gets Tabitha's new life line, her girlfriend Becca's dance team suspended and later on the freezing of GoFundMe donations for Kayla. At every turn it really feels like Tabby is being struck down but The Scarlett Storm is coming and she hates injustice.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What I loved most about this book wasn't Tabitha's sassiness, Stephan's boldness, or Kayla's strength. It was the ability to deal with deep and serious subject matter while keeping the writing light. In this book we see a teenager dealing with depression, living her truth as a gay woman (and the homophobia that accompanies it), and eventually stepping into her power in a spectacular way. But we also see a lightness (exemplified by the best description of the word "etiquette" I have ever heard). Definitely give this one a chance!
October 1, 2026
I was fully and emotionally invested from the first page. Robert did such an amazing job pulling me in as a reader from the very start. This book was such a journey.
There was so much going on at all times, sometimes it was a little bit too much for my liking. Not only that, Tabitha's relationship with Becca completely disappears, even though it was major for the story. Even with my dislike of that aspect of the story it was still really good.
Tabby and Kayla were well written as sisters it seemed like such a realistic family dynamic. Tabby's struggle with depression was well told and in the beginning how much it burdened her. Then it slowly fading as she was making friends and being herself.
Overall it was a fantastic read, I just felt like there was way too much going on at times, which took away from the main heart of the story.
There was so much going on at all times, sometimes it was a little bit too much for my liking. Not only that, Tabitha's relationship with Becca completely disappears, even though it was major for the story. Even with my dislike of that aspect of the story it was still really good.
Tabby and Kayla were well written as sisters it seemed like such a realistic family dynamic. Tabby's struggle with depression was well told and in the beginning how much it burdened her. Then it slowly fading as she was making friends and being herself.
Overall it was a fantastic read, I just felt like there was way too much going on at times, which took away from the main heart of the story.
October 5, 2026
Love this. The whole concept of using her power to enter a reality show was so well done. The sister relationship is so strong. Though the others are also solid. Looking forward to more from this author.
Review of advance copy
I thought this was just a young adult come of age book but it was so much more! Tabitha has a gift and she is a survivor. Her and her twin are a joy to share. This story was about finding hope and finding yourself. The friends were so amazing and helpful, to bring Tabby's dream to life. Can't wait to read more!
Review of advance copy
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I thought the concept of a girl with telekinesis who is using her powers to enter a reality TV competition under false pretenses in order to save her sister was really creative, if not a little over the top, but the characters felt real and I enjoyed rooting for them. It was a new twist on what could have been a basic superhero story, where instead of fighting crime, the protagonist is using her powers to send a captivating and meaningful message to the world about teen suicide, overcoming bigotry, and standing up for others.
You do get some superhero action, which was very well written and captivated me. My one problem with going in the classic superhero route was that the villains were cartoonishly evil. I think it could have benefited with the Sons of God, or the bigots in general, having some nuance. It would have added an interesting complexity to the story.
I loved the relationship between Tabitha and her sister, along with the strong friendships she made a long the way. The strained relationship with her mother I think could have been developed more.
I think this books does a good job at tapping into the high highs and the low lows of teenagerdom. Being a teen feels tumultuous, and you get that when looking through Tabitha’s eyes. From her extreme love of cheese to her deep hatred of injustice, you get a lot of emotion through the pages of this book that I think a lot of teens will be able to relate to and see themselves in.
I would recommend this book, especially if you want an ultimately optimistic read that deals with the tough issues of homophobia, cancer, trauma, suicide, bigotry, etc. with a bit of action and a whole lot of heart.
I received a free copy of this book.
You do get some superhero action, which was very well written and captivated me. My one problem with going in the classic superhero route was that the villains were cartoonishly evil. I think it could have benefited with the Sons of God, or the bigots in general, having some nuance. It would have added an interesting complexity to the story.
I loved the relationship between Tabitha and her sister, along with the strong friendships she made a long the way. The strained relationship with her mother I think could have been developed more.
I think this books does a good job at tapping into the high highs and the low lows of teenagerdom. Being a teen feels tumultuous, and you get that when looking through Tabitha’s eyes. From her extreme love of cheese to her deep hatred of injustice, you get a lot of emotion through the pages of this book that I think a lot of teens will be able to relate to and see themselves in.
I would recommend this book, especially if you want an ultimately optimistic read that deals with the tough issues of homophobia, cancer, trauma, suicide, bigotry, etc. with a bit of action and a whole lot of heart.
I received a free copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The relationship between Tabitha and Kayla is probably my favorite part of the book. Kayla isn't simply the supportive older sister who exists to make Tabitha feel better. She pushes her to confront things she'd rather bury, while also giving her plenty of room to be herself. Their conversations about Tabitha's suicide attempt are difficult but believable, and the scene where Kayla replaces Tabitha's depressing playlist with her own “Big-Sister Shit” playlist manages to be both funny and genuinely touching.
The competition-show storyline gives the book a lot of momentum. Tabitha's performances aren't just spectacle. They become a way for her to reclaim control over a life that has increasingly felt out of control. The later performance, where she publicly reveals four truths about herself, is particularly effective because the spectacle is tied directly to her emotional journey.
Where I think the book could improve is pacing and restraint. There is a lot happening from mental health, sexuality, bullying, superpowers e.t.c and the mystery surrounding Tabitha's abilities. Individually, these are interesting, but occasionally the story seems determined to make every major event carry enormous emotional significance still a few quieter stretches would actually make the biggest moments hit harder.
The competition-show storyline gives the book a lot of momentum. Tabitha's performances aren't just spectacle. They become a way for her to reclaim control over a life that has increasingly felt out of control. The later performance, where she publicly reveals four truths about herself, is particularly effective because the spectacle is tied directly to her emotional journey.
Where I think the book could improve is pacing and restraint. There is a lot happening from mental health, sexuality, bullying, superpowers e.t.c and the mystery surrounding Tabitha's abilities. Individually, these are interesting, but occasionally the story seems determined to make every major event carry enormous emotional significance still a few quieter stretches would actually make the biggest moments hit harder.
Review of advance copy
Tabitha Unleashed is a breathtaking and emotionally charged debut that masterfully blends the high-stakes drama of a televised talent competition with a deeply personal story of survival, identity, and queer resistance. Robert W. Adams crafts a protagonist in Tabitha Griffin who is both achingly vulnerable and fiercely resilient, carrying the weight of her sister’s illness, her own mental health struggles, and a supernatural secret that could change everything. The tension is palpable as Tabitha's impossible real-life "illusions" catapult her to fame, transforming her into an unwilling symbol for a cause she never asked to represent. Adams doesn't shy away from the dark themes of self-harm and internalized shame, but balances them with moments of genuine sweetness, first love, and found family that make the journey worthwhile. This is a compelling start to the Un-Series that will leave readers captivated by its unique premise and deeply invested in Tabitha's fight to save her sister—and herself. (Note: Readers should heed the content notes for mature themes.)
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I must say Tabitha Unleashed caught me off guard in a good way. On the surface, it has the ingredients of a superhero/YA story, a sixteen-year-old girl with telekinetic abilities, a televised talent competition, secret identities, romance, and plenty of high-stakes moments. But underneath all of that, the book is really about a teenager trying to figure out whether she deserves to have a future after believing she had already ruined her past.
My biggest issue is that the story sometimes tries to carry too much at once. There are several things competing for attention from Tabitha's mental health, Kayla's illness, her powers, the television competition, school life, romance, bullying, family secrets, and her growing public profile. Most of these are interesting individually, but putting so many of them together occasionally makes the story feel crowded.
My biggest issue is that the story sometimes tries to carry too much at once. There are several things competing for attention from Tabitha's mental health, Kayla's illness, her powers, the television competition, school life, romance, bullying, family secrets, and her growing public profile. Most of these are interesting individually, but putting so many of them together occasionally makes the story feel crowded.
Review of advance copy
It was such an interesting book to read as it made me think a lot. It made a huge impact on me when the protagonists declares from the very beginning how she was a suicide attempt survivor and how she was there performing, hoping to earn something to help her sister who had cancer. There was so much genuine thought in those pages. It's the tragedy of the fear of losing someone you love so much that keeps you reading. Tabby and Kayla have a strong bond as sisters and it's beautiful to see that. My only critic of the book is that I'd like to hear more Kayla's side and see how she feels about everything. Overall, a good read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tabitha Had Me STRESSED
Besties... this was WAY more emotional than I expected! Tabitha enters a televised talent competition using powers everyone thinks are illusions, hoping to save her twin sister. But friendship, first love, danger, and unexpected attention turn everything upside down. The theater scene had me STRESSED as Tabitha finally realizes her own life is worth fighting for too. Whew! The writing is witty and heartfelt, with Tabitha's sarcastic inner voice bringing humor even during heavier moments. A fun, emotional start with serious depth.
🥀 My ratings and review are my own. 🖤
Besties... this was WAY more emotional than I expected! Tabitha enters a televised talent competition using powers everyone thinks are illusions, hoping to save her twin sister. But friendship, first love, danger, and unexpected attention turn everything upside down. The theater scene had me STRESSED as Tabitha finally realizes her own life is worth fighting for too. Whew! The writing is witty and heartfelt, with Tabitha's sarcastic inner voice bringing humor even during heavier moments. A fun, emotional start with serious depth.
🥀 My ratings and review are my own. 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! What an amazing read! This was powerful, emotional, and inspiring. Tabby is such a strong and brave teen even though she doesn't feel that way. She was an extremely relatable character. The teenage angst is real LOL
The supporting characters were also amazing each with their own strengths. It's incredible how resilient and determined young people can be.
The political commentary was well written and not too over done. B!tch is a regular word in their vocabulary just as a heads up but I thought it really helped speak to her characters. Definitely a must read!
The supporting characters were also amazing each with their own strengths. It's incredible how resilient and determined young people can be.
The political commentary was well written and not too over done. B!tch is a regular word in their vocabulary just as a heads up but I thought it really helped speak to her characters. Definitely a must read!
September 13, 2026
A young teen with a troubled past and uncertain future signs up for a competition to help her twin sister with cancer and learns so much about herself on her journey to win the competition. This is a beautiful book with a raw depiction of a young teen coming into her own power. Set in Florida, where certain policies directed towards queer youth have a huge impact on their well-being, Tabitha becomes an unwitting hero in her quest to save her sister. The book had a slow start, but as I kept reading, I found myself more and more drawn into Tabitha's journey towards herself.
October 9, 2026
If you like the “Extraordinaries Series” then you are going to love Tabitha Unleashed. Haven’t read that series? You are still going to LOVE this story. It’s a sapphic angsty romance with an amazing secondary cast and a premise that will gut you. I ugly cried more than once reading this story and fell in love with everyone. This is the book you want to escape with NOW.
“Thank you, Author Robert W. Adams, for providing this book for review consideration via Gay Book Promotions. All opinions are my own.”
“Thank you, Author Robert W. Adams, for providing this book for review consideration via Gay Book Promotions. All opinions are my own.”
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews