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The Gifted #1

Discovery

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All twenty-three year old Kate Sutton wants is a quiet relaxing summer after finishing her first year as a guidance counselor. School is out for the year and her swimming pool awaits, but that all changes when she is asked to help three troubled kids in the foster care system. Kate was adopted, but hasn't been able to determine anything about her birth parents. She could have easily been placed in foster care instead of with her family. So, when she was asked to help those kids, she couldn't turn it down.

When strange things begin to happen, Kate discovers that her foster kids are not quite what she had thought and that neither is she. Suddenly, Kate is thrust into a world where people have special gifts and she and the kids are being hunted.

Now she has to learn who she really is and keep the kids safe from discovery. A gorgeous guy keeps showing up everywhere she goes, but is he there to help her or turn her and the kids over to the ones hunting them?

289 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 31, 2015

144 people are currently reading
449 people want to read

About the author

Char Webster

15 books724 followers
Char Webster weaves suspense, mystery, romance and humor into all of her books. She strives to make the paranormal world fit perfectly into real life, where anything seems to be possible.

Reading and getting lost in a story have always been Char Webster's favorite things to do. She has also had a love for writing, which led her to her daytime career in public relations and marketing. After years of writing for others, Char decided to write something for herself.

The Gifted Series fulfills a lifelong dream of creating a world where people can escape reality for a little while. Char Webster loves living in South Jersey because she feels like it is in the center of everything. She love pizza, hot sauce, french fries, dancing, photography and trying new things.

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5 stars
126 (53%)
4 stars
62 (26%)
3 stars
34 (14%)
2 stars
8 (3%)
1 star
5 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
Profile Image for Morgan Barton.
21 reviews
January 28, 2016
So first off can I just say Char Webster this book is absolutely AMAZING!! You just gained a huge fan!! Wow! Is all I can say. From the first chapter I was thoroughly enjoying the book and as I got farther into the book I was in love with it! The characters are all amazing and little Maddie is too adorable! I loved every single one of the characters or at least the good ones that is, they had me laughing most of the book. At one second I could be giggling and the next I was on the edge of my seat holding my breath waiting to see what was going to happen. This book had me going from one emotion to another and let's just say I was almost balling my eyes out towards the end. I loved, loved, loved Nick's and Kate's story! A definite 5 STARS in my opinion. I can't wait to read more from you.
Love, Morgan.

I received an ARC for my honest review of this book.
82 reviews2 followers
January 6, 2016
Can I fan girl out a little bit and just scream about how much I loved this book?!?!?!?

Discovery is not only the first book in The Gifted Series, but this is also the debut novel for new author Char Webster. Let me tell you, she does not disappoint!

Discovery begins by introducing us to Miss Kate Sutton. Kate is not only beautiful, but caring, and smart. After finishing her first year as a guidance counselor, Kate is looking forward to a relaxed summer sitting by her swimming pool, and hanging out with her friends. But fate has other plans. When 23 year old Kate is asked to help three troubled kids in the foster system, she knows she can’t say no.

Soon, this summer is anything but relaxing. Kate discovers that her foster kids have some pretty amazing gifts, and that she is not quite as normal as she thought. Kate knows she has to protect her kids, and learn who she really is. But the hunters are coming…

In a world where you can’t make heads or tails of anything, how do you know who to trust?

When I was asked to read Discovery I honestly agreed without ever reading anything about this book. I just dove right in, threw caution to the wind, and decided to see where the story took me. And this book completely blew me away!

Not only are the characters well developed, and the story engaging; but Char Webster has masterfully woven a plot that makes you consider the possibility that these gifted people are walking among us right now. She pulls you in with some background information on the main character, Kate, pretty much making sure you know that she is the all around bad ass of “normal” women everywhere. Then she does something that not a lot of writers do, she makes her a mom!

Now, I have three kids, and it’s exhausting. But we had time to prepare individually for each one of them. I could not imagine going from being a single 23 year old, to a mom of three in one day! But the author does so with grace and understanding. I feel like the drive to protect her foster kids really gave the story line another dimension. It was really beautiful and touching to see a mom being awesome. It gives the rest of us some hope! :)

Please don’t think it was all rainbows and butterflies. There were definitely some pages that I was screaming, “What are you thinking?” (Yes, in my head I scream at the characters).

When I was finished reading this book, I had to take a few minutes to compose myself…there were so many questions floating around in my head, not in a bad way.

I cannot wait for the second installment of this series, and absolutely hope I am on the reading team when it does!

Happy reading!

I received an ARC for an honest review of this book.

*This review was originally published on bookcrushin.com on November 28, 2015.*
Profile Image for Suzie.
564 reviews11 followers
January 12, 2016
4.5 stars!! Kate likes to help people and by doing so she discovers that she is gifted. She fosters 3 children and what happens next turns her life upside down. She will protect them at any cost and so will Nick. The chemistry between Kate and Nick can be seen by everyone, they should be together but will they be allowed? Entertaining, easy to read and well written. Can't wait to see what happens in the next one!!
Profile Image for I.A. Cintron.
Author 2 books11 followers
October 31, 2016
Oh Char, why do you do this to me? This book has been skipped so many times and now I regret it since its so awesome. Now let's talk about Mr. Dickhead or Brooks as you call him. Can he just die? I hate him so much and so does everyone else. I need Nick and Kate to end up together but the dammed association forbids it for a good reason *cries* I hope Brooks dies in the second book or I will riot!!!
Profile Image for valerie.
43 reviews
December 11, 2015
What a great book.

It hooked me from beginning to end. I didn't want to put it down. I can't wait for next book in series. Wtg Char what a great book. Good luck a d hope to read lots of books from you.
Profile Image for DebbieReadsBooks.
2,773 reviews51 followers
April 24, 2016
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.

All Kate wants to do is help the kids who lost their parents some months ago. But things happen that change her whole outlook on life, and what happened to her own parents all those years ago.

Finding out your ability to sense emotions is a gift, and that gift is what might get you killed is enough to send anyone over the edge, but Kate just wants to help the kids. Add in two men after her attention, a madman who wants the kids and Kate, and some long held rules, and you got a really good book.

Because I did enjoy this, for the most part. It is, I believe, the first book by this author, and in places it shows. Midway, the book seems to runs away with itself and the strength that showed in the book in the first half seemed lacking in the second.

But! I still enjoyed it! Kate is totally blown over by all that happens after the kids arrive, she meets Nick and Robert, and all her past comes to light. I loved that we don't get it all in one go, it comes in dribs and drabs and you have to put it together yourself. Loved being made to wait for it, I really did.

I also loved that we got to hear from everyone. From Kate and Nick, from Robert and the kids. From the bad guy and his henchmen, and from one of the kids the bad guy already has, who wants to get away. Oh!! Loved that little hint, there, Ms Webster, loved it!

It is clean, just some kissing, but it does contain some kidnapping and murder threats, so I'd rate it upper young adult, maybe 15 plus. I'd let my nearly 15 year old daughter read it, if she were that way inclined, but it pains me that she isn't. Pains me deeply, because I'm fairly certain she would love this one.

For a first time author, and the first in the series, a great start. This story will run on into the next book, because, while not really a cliff hanger, the story is left open ended and there is a great deal more to come. I'd really like to read them ( even if they are young adult!)

3 solid stars

**same worded review will appear on Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, Kobo and Barnes and Noble**
Profile Image for Julie Gustafson-Monk.
549 reviews
March 13, 2016
Reviewed by 2 Girls Who Love Books Blog

Discovery was a fantastic read and I couldn't put it down. The story flowed effortlessly. Char Websters writing was excellent. You definitely gained a new reader.

At the start of Discovery you learn of Kate. She has a terrific job helping others. This is her passion and she is very good at it. Her job brings her to meeting three special children that need her help. She goes from being childless to taking on three kids. The kids need her as much as she needs them. Especially when they all realize they have special gifts.
Kate and the kids face some trouble with the help of Nick.
Nick has watched from afar making sure Kate and the kids where ok. But he wasn't prepared for the feelings he has for Kate. Nick learns of some news that could put Kate and the kids in danger. He does everything he can to protect them all. He does a mighty fine job.

This story was a 5 star read for me. Discovery was a page turner and can be a nail bitter at times.
I can't wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Merissa (Archaeolibrarian).
4,203 reviews119 followers
June 8, 2023
What starts off as a 'normal' story about a young woman and her foster kids, quickly becomes something completely different - with mysterious men popping up at unexpected times, new abilities being found, old abilities becoming stronger, and threats, to name but some.

With a new Discovery in every chapter, this book is very well written, with no editing or grammatical errors that I found. The chemistry between Nick and Kate jumps out from the page at you, but it is still unclear as to whether or not they will end up together. I loved the supporting cast of friends that turned up towards the end of the book.

This is an intriguing story, with no clear definition of 'good' and 'evil'. Are the good guys really good? Are the bad really as bad as they are made out to be? I don't yet know for sure, but one thing I do know is that I can't wait to read Exploration, the second book in this series.

* Verified Purchase on Amazon *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 29, 2016
Profile Image for A.M. Johnson.
Author 3 books49 followers
January 29, 2016
WoW!
I totally loved this book!
The story line is wicked, it is really easy to read, well written and flows so nicely you don't realise that it is fairly long, I read it over the course of 1 day and thoroughly enjoyed it.
The main characters are strong, charismatic, smart and are gifted with some very cool powers.
I love Kate, she is strong and so smart, she has such a wonderful heart (& gift).
Nick is well, simply gorgeous, cocky and truly wonderful, as is Robert, Jason and Ryan, cannot wait to get to know them better.
But I really fell for Alex, Zach and little Maddy, what amazing kids, I cannot wait to see how they grow and mature.
But what I really want to see is the demise of Brooks and Louise..
Only complaint I have is that I have to WAIT for book 2 to be written...
And this is Char Webster's DEBUT novel...double wow!!!!
Highly Recommend to ALL who like a solidly good read.

I received a free copy of this from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review
213 reviews
June 17, 2016
I found this story to be mysterious, magical, and a real page-turner that tells a story about some people with special gifts. Gifts that a person could use in the wrong way do evil or the right way to help others. The characters were well developed in a good story. The plot was well thought out with good dialogue among the characters. I liked how one the characters, told the tale of Atlantis and the author was able to intertwine into the story really well to make it sound believable. Kate another great character in the story showed how to love someone who wasn’t family by blood but she deeply cared for them. The climax in the story was really good too. I am giving the story five stars.
Profile Image for Angela.
2,521 reviews10 followers
December 9, 2015
Received a copy for my honest opinion.

Great story line. Kate is a guidance counselor who has always just seemed to know what emotions people are feeling and what needs to be done to help them.
Having been adopted herself, when a friend asks for her help with 3 foster kids she can't say no. But she soon realizes that the kids and even herself have more in common than what they thought.
Great concept. Good chemistry between all of the characters. Can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Rebecca Rogers.
151 reviews16 followers
March 8, 2016
Discovery is a brilliant read by Char, to discover there is more to you than you thought. To feel a love so deeply it must be destiny, to know without a doubt you must keep these innocents safe. Watching Kate as her life turned inside out and upside down after taking in the foster children is amazing. She has such a heart to love, guide and foster the three. I loved this story, the characters were well developed, and it was a very easy flowing read. Do not pass up this chance to watch Kate Sutton learn where she truly comes from, what she is, and how she deals with the everything in between!
Profile Image for Jill Manz.
6 reviews
April 24, 2016
This is a well-done first novel! I really was pulled into the story of Kate, Nick and esp Robert (personal favorite).
There are interesting supernatural elements to the characters, suspense and some very interesting twists. I found one of the surprises towards the end to be very clever. The characters are likable and the "gifts" actually work in quite believably.
While not as nuanced as more experienced novelists, I see a lot of potential in this author's series moving forward. I can't wait to read book two, both for the story to develop and to see Char's growth as a writer
Profile Image for Jen Schoeberlein.
6 reviews4 followers
April 26, 2016
OMG I loved this book so much! It was SO hard to put down. All of the characters have their own quirky personalities, and it was so easy to picture each one. Kate is such an intriguing person, and I love her love story that intertwines with the whole adventure. The kids coming into the story really sucked me in, and the connection she had with them made me fall in love with them. I'm all kinds of giddy to read Exploration, so much I have reread this a few times now haha!! Thanks, Char, for a fantastic read, and I can't wait for book 2!
Profile Image for Amanda.
12 reviews8 followers
Read
November 14, 2016
This book was WOW, Kate was a really smart young lady who lives to help others. When she came across three Siblings who had lost their parents and couldn't settle in any foster home, were threatened to be separated, she stepped in and took them home. She had NO IDEA how her life would change........ This is a roller-coaster of a book and i LOVED it. I am eagerly anticipating book two to see what happens!!!!!!!. This is a series and has a cliffhanger and well worth a read x
Profile Image for BethAnn Redd.
130 reviews4 followers
February 16, 2017
I loved this book the dynamic between Kate, Alex, Maddy and Zach is instant. You feel their connection. This followed up with the reappearing of Nick and Robert, who are on opposing sides yet were best friends at one time and both seem to want to protect Kate. Everything is placed just so... you can not put the book down once you start reading it. I can not wait to start reading book 2!!! I loved everything about it.
Profile Image for Tracy Cox.
408 reviews
July 14, 2016
Amazing!!!!

This book was amazing. It was such a great start to a new series. This story had me hanging onto every word from the very beginning of the book. This story has some great characters in it. I was unable to put it down and finished it in one sitting. I can't wait for the next one.
Profile Image for The Magic of Books Blog.
285 reviews14 followers
May 30, 2016
Discovery (The Gifted series #1) by Char Webster

4 stars
Reviewed by Sara

wow absolutely loved this book keep me an edge and craving more the characters were well developed and thought out i give this a 4 star rating and recommend this to everyone great writing and story plot cant wait to read more .

Late Night Books Reviewer Sara
Profile Image for Heather De Los Reyes.
429 reviews3 followers
March 1, 2016
Loved this supernatural book. Kate is an amazing character who is protecting these foster kids that she feels are the same as her when she discovers things are quite what she thought. It's adventurous, surprising and definitely a must read!
Profile Image for Shawna Graff.
1 review
December 11, 2015
This book was amazing!! My imagination was going crazy. When is book two coming out??
2 reviews
January 20, 2016
I couldn't put the book down and can't wait for the next one.

This was a great book I couldn't put it down and I can not wait for book two to come out.
13 reviews
September 26, 2017
Good Read

Very well written with a snappy plot. The characters are well developed as the action made this one tough to lay down. Don't pass this one up! Char is HOT!
Profile Image for Kathy Mayer.
861 reviews9 followers
January 10, 2024
Wow, I loved the forbidden romance!

Nick is your typical follow the rules type of guy. The Association is the ruling government for people with abilities. Nick works for them. His brother & sister-in-law died in a car crash but there were things that don't add up. So he's looking into it.
Kate is the sweetest woman who has no clue that she has been using her powers on people all along. Kate was adopted. And get this her parents were killed in a car crash. Coincidence? Kate works as a guidance counselor in a high school. Her powers allow her to know what someone is feeling. And with a touch she can change your mood. Kate is called in to help 3 kids that have had 3 foster homes in the last 8 months. After speaking to the kids Kate really thinks she can help them. When she goes to talk to the social worker there is a couple waiting outside on a bench. Kate is feeling the most malevolence & evil from them that it is making her sick. When she learns that they want the 3 kids she immediately insists on taking the kids. The kids have a will that states they can't be split up & are supposed to go to an uncle no one can find. Immediately little 2 year old Maddy sits in Kate's lap. She never go to strangers. Kate gives the kids their own rooms, takes them clothes shopping. And they love the fact that she has a swimming pool. However, Kate soon learns that she has powers just like the kids. Then Nick shows up & Kate is terrified he will take the kids from her. Nick can see how much the kids love het & Kate starts to refer to them as her own. Nick can tell how much they all need each other. Nick doesn't want to split them up. Unfortunately, the couple that wanted the kids don't give up. They are rich, people who have cops on their payroll. They kidnap the kids & it's up to Nick & his former best friends to save them. Later they patch up their friendship.
Profile Image for Jamie Mazzanti.
10 reviews9 followers
November 13, 2017
Magical Paranormal & Exciting Adventure that is a Must Read!!!!

WOW!!! This was such a PHENOMENAL, CAPTIVATING Book. I was so Engrossed & on the Edge of my Seat Excited to see what was going to happen next I couldn't put this Book Down. I Loved Kate & the Kids they & how they came together. I Enjoyed Reading about a Different type of a Paranormal/Magical Race & how the Author brought some Insight into how these People got their Gifts. I Loved all the Guy's for each of their different Unique Characteristics. I felt I was with the characters throughout the whole Book. The Descriptions of everything made me feel not only like I could see what was happening, but I could feel the Emmotional Roller Coaster that was going on. I HIGHLY Recommend Reading this Series. I myself am looking forward to starting Book 3 to see what happen's. This is a Book you don't want to Miss out on Reading. At least give Book 1 a Read & I am sure you will get Hooked on this Amazing, Captivating, Exciting, Mysterious, Breath Taking Edge of your Seat Page Turner of a Book!!!!
7 reviews
July 1, 2019
Different in a really good way!

I really enjoy a good read that is a little different from what everyone else writes! Ms Webster did it well! Kept me engaged. Also, I can't stand grammatical errors and will not finish a book if I find many. I finished this book!!! I don't pay for books until I have read something written by that author. If the free book is poorly written or has not been "proofed" you best believe I will not pay for anything else written by that author. To me, the offer of a "free read" is the best chance an author has of building a fan base! Ms Webster, you have me as a new fan!
Thank you!
Profile Image for Jennifer Beckman.
279 reviews
September 11, 2019
Discover this author

Have had this book on my kindle for a while. I finally got through my TBR
puke and this book and this series. I have read a lot of PNR, and this was a unique take on PNR that I had not read before and I enjoyed it. A tiny bit slow a first, ( but that could be my impatience showing. ) once I started though, I couldn't put it down. I needed to know what was going to happen. And now I'm head to the next book cause there is more to know!!! Enjoy!!!
76 reviews
October 14, 2019
Kate is thrown into a world she never knew existed when she trys to help two troubled teens and their baby sister. When she walked into the Family Services building never dreamed she walk out a foster mother to Alex,Zach and Maddy. When things start to change around her and the gifts she has had all her life finally start to appear but so does a Blue eyed stranger she must choose to trust him for her sake and the childrens.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kellyann.
351 reviews8 followers
July 29, 2017
A fantastic story. The setting is perfect, the writing is flawless and the characters have a way of bringing life to the story. It's fast paced and engaging with twists that are sure to surprise you or pull you in. Definitely a great start to a series. A must read for all to enjoy. I'll recommend this book to my friends for sure.
Profile Image for Nikki.
242 reviews27 followers
October 30, 2017
I had kept pushing this story further and further down on my tbr list and I wish that I had read it sooner! It was amazing from start to finish! This story grabbed me right away and didn’t let go! I loved everything about it: the writing, the magic elements, the romance, and the action! I can’t wait to read the next one!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews

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