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The Offered #1
Tithe
Welcome to the Tithe, where life is bought with death and love is paid with sacrifice.
Two things are ever certain in Ironcross: the beasts outside the wall and the Tithe.
When Senna Rhys turns eighteen, she must go through the Tithe, a rite of passage to adulthood that claims ten souls for the treaty with the wall. The unpaired are chosen first—securing the next generation to supply the Tithe is the foundation of Ironcross’ survival!
We’re encouraged to champion the concept of the Tithe and not dwell on the detail. ‘Sacrifice the few to save the many’ is not a motto that promotes healthy town morale. I’ve avoided thinking about it for most of my life, but there’s no escaping it now.
Welcome to the Tithe!
There’s Gabriel, the gorgeous boy next door with blue, blue eyes. He’s been my best friend since forever. He’s the keeper of my heart.
There’s Kane, arrogant and self-assured and darkly beautiful. He wants everything but my heart and has an irritating habit of catching me when I fall.
There’s Ironcross. The wall that keeps the beasts out. The fear that keeps us in. The Alders who rule with ruthless clarity.
Above all else, there’s the Tithe. The pact and sacrifice and pairings that bind our world.
Tithe is a post-apocalyptic romance and adventure with some disturbing themes set in a dark, dystopian world.
Two things are ever certain in Ironcross: the beasts outside the wall and the Tithe.
When Senna Rhys turns eighteen, she must go through the Tithe, a rite of passage to adulthood that claims ten souls for the treaty with the wall. The unpaired are chosen first—securing the next generation to supply the Tithe is the foundation of Ironcross’ survival!
We’re encouraged to champion the concept of the Tithe and not dwell on the detail. ‘Sacrifice the few to save the many’ is not a motto that promotes healthy town morale. I’ve avoided thinking about it for most of my life, but there’s no escaping it now.
Welcome to the Tithe!
There’s Gabriel, the gorgeous boy next door with blue, blue eyes. He’s been my best friend since forever. He’s the keeper of my heart.
There’s Kane, arrogant and self-assured and darkly beautiful. He wants everything but my heart and has an irritating habit of catching me when I fall.
There’s Ironcross. The wall that keeps the beasts out. The fear that keeps us in. The Alders who rule with ruthless clarity.
Above all else, there’s the Tithe. The pact and sacrifice and pairings that bind our world.
Tithe is a post-apocalyptic romance and adventure with some disturbing themes set in a dark, dystopian world.
186 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 14, 2020
495 people are currently reading
867 people want to read
About the author
Claire Vale
10 books36 followersClaire Vale lives in a small town outside London. When she's not thigh-deep in real life, you'll find her head-and-heart-deep in the tangled lives of her characters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
September 9, 2020
This was fantastic!
I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was sold on Dystopian Romance and the premise seemed intriguing enough.
Senna Rhys is turning 18 and is entering into adulthood, where she is one of many that enter into a mandatory 2 week stay at a facility. During this stay, their four Alders will determine who will be Tithed.
Senna's best friend Gabriel is also entered, as well as all of her friends from her Tithe year.
All they know is that they must "pair" with someone in their Tithe year, and if they don't find a pair, they are to be 'Tithed to the Wall'.
They don't know what is beyond the wall, other than the rumors of beasts, but they also don't know what to expect from the 2 weeks they will spend together to determine who will be Tithed.
Knowing that there are other books in this series, made it all the more exciting, as it's a relatively short read. I wanted to keep picking it back up and hoped desperately for answers.
A lot of my questions were answered and not too much was given away while still answering enough to keep the story interesting and fun.
This was truly great and I'll be buying the second book today; I'll also be buying the third book that comes out on September 22nd!
✨Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.✨
I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was sold on Dystopian Romance and the premise seemed intriguing enough.
Senna Rhys is turning 18 and is entering into adulthood, where she is one of many that enter into a mandatory 2 week stay at a facility. During this stay, their four Alders will determine who will be Tithed.
Senna's best friend Gabriel is also entered, as well as all of her friends from her Tithe year.
All they know is that they must "pair" with someone in their Tithe year, and if they don't find a pair, they are to be 'Tithed to the Wall'.
They don't know what is beyond the wall, other than the rumors of beasts, but they also don't know what to expect from the 2 weeks they will spend together to determine who will be Tithed.
Knowing that there are other books in this series, made it all the more exciting, as it's a relatively short read. I wanted to keep picking it back up and hoped desperately for answers.
A lot of my questions were answered and not too much was given away while still answering enough to keep the story interesting and fun.
This was truly great and I'll be buying the second book today; I'll also be buying the third book that comes out on September 22nd!
✨Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.✨
January 8, 2026
Audiobook. MC is immature and most of the characters are too. It felt like to young for me. Will I finish? Not sure, but it helps if I can find the second in audiobook too. There is just no way I would get through it if I had to read it.
June 15, 2022
Hoping for more
I have to agree with others that there is much missing in this book. No understanding as to what happened to the world and why they live in this dictatorship government. No world building at all. I too found it hard to like Senna but am willing to try the next book in the series.
I have to agree with others that there is much missing in this book. No understanding as to what happened to the world and why they live in this dictatorship government. No world building at all. I too found it hard to like Senna but am willing to try the next book in the series.
September 15, 2022
The story starts off with our heroine on her 18th birthday. Two days before the tithe. Ironcross is a small community that the first settlers walled themselves in when the plague devastated the world and left what is called ferocious beasts outside the wall. Then a family, the Alders, made a deal with the beasts. The Tithe in which ten people who just turned 18 will be sent to the wall. What that means isn’t really explained to the people. All they know is once it’s tithe year over the course of two weeks ten will be gone, never to be seen again.
To tell the truth, I have no idea how I feel about this book. I skimmed. I wasn’t totally invested in the characters. I can’t even tell if this was a love triangle or quadruple or more than four people. There really is too much going on with the whole partner situation. I’m still confused about what exactly the Tithe is. Actually, to be completely honest, I'm just confused.
The heroine started out with the right guy. The guy who was good for her, but I guess he’s the hero, makes a hard moral decision and it throws everything off balance. I don’t think I will go on with the series. I am just not interested in seeing what happens to those who have been tithed and those who haven’t.
To tell the truth, I have no idea how I feel about this book. I skimmed. I wasn’t totally invested in the characters. I can’t even tell if this was a love triangle or quadruple or more than four people. There really is too much going on with the whole partner situation. I’m still confused about what exactly the Tithe is. Actually, to be completely honest, I'm just confused.
The heroine started out with the right guy. The guy who was good for her, but I guess he’s the hero, makes a hard moral decision and it throws everything off balance. I don’t think I will go on with the series. I am just not interested in seeing what happens to those who have been tithed and those who haven’t.
May 26, 2020
The first book in The Offered series, Claire Vale’s Tithe follows Senna, an eighteen-year-old who, according to the laws of Ironcross, must take part in the tithe. During the process, ten teens are selected to be cast outside of Ironcross and, because of a long-standing agreement, are offered to the beasts that dwell past the walls.
Paired couples are safer than unpaired, so the pressure is fierce to find a mate within the tithe, but not for Senna. Senna loves her best friend Gabe, and they enter the tithe promised to one another. However, with the mounting fear of the unknown and the harsh penalties for not adhering to the rules pressing down on them, can they survive the dangers of the tithe?
In this dystopian world, a walled-off community sacrifices ten teens to the beasts that live outside. What are these beasts? How dangerous are they? What is really outside the wall? These are the questions that plague Senna and Gabe (and the reader) and propel the plot. Though the premise is similar to other stories in this genre, the creative tithe process and the exceptional character-development is different.
Senna is a complex and relatable character. She has so many contradictory emotions, which is expected considering the tremendous amount of pressure that she is under. Her trustworthiness and loyalty are her best traits, but I also like her intellect and the fact that she questions the things in society that either bother her or don’t make sense. These qualities could make her a wonderful asset to her community or a risk.
The majority of this story takes place in a governmental/military compound during the weeks before the teens are chosen for the tithe. This is where the teens go through physical and emotional tests and trainings. As Senna and Gabe grow closer, so does the tithe, and tensions mount. Senna’s attraction to Kane, one of the trainers, doesn’t help.
Gabe is the sweet, handsome, and endearing boy-next-door type, whereas Kane is the older, enigmatic, brooding hunk who has seen his fair share of tragedy. Where the love between Gabe and Senna is sweet and strong, the attraction between Senna and Kane is electric.
I enjoyed this love-triangle because it kept me guessing. I questioned both men’s motives throughout the story. I mean, with everything at stake, Gabe’s timing seemed a little too convenient. Does Gabe truly love Senna as more than a friend, or did he propose to her because he’s desperate to stay out of the tithe? He seems to love her, but is that enough? And how does Kane really feel about Senna? His actions make it seem like he has feelings for her (especially at the end of the story – oh my word!), but he is so closed off that it is impossible to tell. This is an interesting love triangle that I suspect will be further explored in the rest of the series (hopefully).
A well-paced and interesting dystopian novel with a strong and likable protagonist, Tithe is a great introduction to the world of Ironcross. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series! Thanks so much to Booksirens for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
https://onebookmore.com/2020/05/10/re...
Paired couples are safer than unpaired, so the pressure is fierce to find a mate within the tithe, but not for Senna. Senna loves her best friend Gabe, and they enter the tithe promised to one another. However, with the mounting fear of the unknown and the harsh penalties for not adhering to the rules pressing down on them, can they survive the dangers of the tithe?
In this dystopian world, a walled-off community sacrifices ten teens to the beasts that live outside. What are these beasts? How dangerous are they? What is really outside the wall? These are the questions that plague Senna and Gabe (and the reader) and propel the plot. Though the premise is similar to other stories in this genre, the creative tithe process and the exceptional character-development is different.
Senna is a complex and relatable character. She has so many contradictory emotions, which is expected considering the tremendous amount of pressure that she is under. Her trustworthiness and loyalty are her best traits, but I also like her intellect and the fact that she questions the things in society that either bother her or don’t make sense. These qualities could make her a wonderful asset to her community or a risk.
The majority of this story takes place in a governmental/military compound during the weeks before the teens are chosen for the tithe. This is where the teens go through physical and emotional tests and trainings. As Senna and Gabe grow closer, so does the tithe, and tensions mount. Senna’s attraction to Kane, one of the trainers, doesn’t help.
Gabe is the sweet, handsome, and endearing boy-next-door type, whereas Kane is the older, enigmatic, brooding hunk who has seen his fair share of tragedy. Where the love between Gabe and Senna is sweet and strong, the attraction between Senna and Kane is electric.
I enjoyed this love-triangle because it kept me guessing. I questioned both men’s motives throughout the story. I mean, with everything at stake, Gabe’s timing seemed a little too convenient. Does Gabe truly love Senna as more than a friend, or did he propose to her because he’s desperate to stay out of the tithe? He seems to love her, but is that enough? And how does Kane really feel about Senna? His actions make it seem like he has feelings for her (especially at the end of the story – oh my word!), but he is so closed off that it is impossible to tell. This is an interesting love triangle that I suspect will be further explored in the rest of the series (hopefully).
A well-paced and interesting dystopian novel with a strong and likable protagonist, Tithe is a great introduction to the world of Ironcross. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series! Thanks so much to Booksirens for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
https://onebookmore.com/2020/05/10/re...
July 5, 2020
Thank you to Book sirens for a copy of the book in return for an honest review.
So they say don't judge a book by its cover, but it's what first attracted me to this book, and I'm glad it did. This is the kind of book I love to read, dystopian and relatable. Ok, I'm not a YA any more but I think this book will appeal to YA and adults alike. The characters are likeable and a little confusing at times. I found my self both liking and disliking Gabe, and I'm looking forward to seeing how his character develops in the series. Our protagonist is likeable too, and believe me that's important as there's nothing worse than a leading lady who you can't relate too, or worse, want killed off! So far all of the characters have that feel to them, I want to know more and I want to see how they will change.
This book is clearly the first of a trilogy, it takes place in the "selection" camp and it ends with us knowing nothing about what's outside the walls. In fact it leaves us wondering whether there are any monsters, given that Kane opts to join them. I personally thought he was going to offer himself to Senna and she'd go home get her velvet cloak and then jump the wall with Kane following her. But no. Im sure she will have to don the velvet cloak at some time though right? There are so many roads that this could now go down! I only hope the author doesn't make is wait too long for the next installment as I have a feeling this could be one hell of a trilogy. Fingers crossed.
A definite must for fans of dystopian fiction. Yes there is a love story in there too, and it's quite intense for YA, but not too heavy of awkward. It also raises questions about love, relationships and the greater good. Would hurt the one you love to save another's life?
So they say don't judge a book by its cover, but it's what first attracted me to this book, and I'm glad it did. This is the kind of book I love to read, dystopian and relatable. Ok, I'm not a YA any more but I think this book will appeal to YA and adults alike. The characters are likeable and a little confusing at times. I found my self both liking and disliking Gabe, and I'm looking forward to seeing how his character develops in the series. Our protagonist is likeable too, and believe me that's important as there's nothing worse than a leading lady who you can't relate too, or worse, want killed off! So far all of the characters have that feel to them, I want to know more and I want to see how they will change.
This book is clearly the first of a trilogy, it takes place in the "selection" camp and it ends with us knowing nothing about what's outside the walls. In fact it leaves us wondering whether there are any monsters, given that Kane opts to join them. I personally thought he was going to offer himself to Senna and she'd go home get her velvet cloak and then jump the wall with Kane following her. But no. Im sure she will have to don the velvet cloak at some time though right? There are so many roads that this could now go down! I only hope the author doesn't make is wait too long for the next installment as I have a feeling this could be one hell of a trilogy. Fingers crossed.
A definite must for fans of dystopian fiction. Yes there is a love story in there too, and it's quite intense for YA, but not too heavy of awkward. It also raises questions about love, relationships and the greater good. Would hurt the one you love to save another's life?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2024
This book flowed well, but it's a bit confused on who it wants to be so it leaves you feeling undecided on what to think of it. I've read other books with similar concepts, and I wasn't expecting a crazy new approach to it, but it felt too.. Generic?
Edit: after reading book 2 (Silk), if you haven't hated this so far I'd recommend reading the second together with this as if it were one longer book. It does provide a bit more of context and world building.
Edit: after reading book 2 (Silk), if you haven't hated this so far I'd recommend reading the second together with this as if it were one longer book. It does provide a bit more of context and world building.
March 14, 2024
Ha estado bien, nada del otro mundo pero me leeré el segundo porque estuvo entretenido. El chaval con el que está no me cae bien pero no creo que duren así que eso nice.
March 22, 2023
The Tithe is a treaty with the beasts, to basically toss out 10 teenagers, like sacrificial lambs, to feed beats, and keep them from entering the community and basically eating everyone. No one knows anything more. Maybe the Alders, but they don't say anything relevant. It's a weird cult type vibe. Pair up with someone or get out. And even paired up you may still get tithed.I like some of the characters in this book. Unfortunately, I can't stand Senna. I know she's the MC but she is so unbelievably annoying. She has made it to her 18th year (her Tithe year) basically ignoring the fact that the Tithe exists. Then when it arrives, she still ignores it. She believes her best friend is the love of her life, even tho he dated every other girl available before finally kissing her less than 48hrs before the Tithe. Gabe and Senna are best friends and know they belong together. Yet NEVER acted on it. Yea, right. He proposed to her. Confesses his love. They even have sex. Then SUDDENLY he realizes that his family has 3 children. 2 sisters, twin, and himself. Which means 1 is pretty much gonna get tithed. Him, or one of the girls when their tithe comes. So he decides to sacrifice himself. I find it odd that he only came to that conclusion after arriving to the Tithe. 14 days to do activities and hopefully pair up with someone, but no matter what 10 people will be tithe to the wall. So Gabe decided not to pair with Senna, hoping his friend would settle for her. Gabe wants to volunteer and in turn save his sister's. Because only 1 person can be taken from a family. They won't completely destroy a family by taking all the kids. Senna is an only child. So she's more likely not to be tithed. She wants to scare Gabe into changing his mind. Wants to make him pick HER over his sisters. He said she's part of his family, he said he lived her, so he's just being stubborn,right? She should learn to take her head outta her ass and not think she's more important than his sister's.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2021
I do not normally read dystopian novels, but I was in the mood to read one, so thought I would check this book out. The cover is also gorgeous and is part of the reason I wanted to read it. I received an advance review copy for free(thank you to Book Sirens and the author), and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
From the start, I was pretty into the book. I thought it was an interesting idea that where they lived there is a wall that separates humans from the monsters, and there is a Tithe each year where they send ten humans to the wall as a peace treaty with the monsters.
However, this first book really didn’t explain much about the monsters, or how this pact between the humans and monsters came about with the wall. Senna did explain a bit about how her world is ruled and controlled, but that’s about it. I mean I really got nothing from the book. It seemed to primarily focus on Senna and her story and experience through the two week stay at the facility, which is fine, but I love world building and would like to know more about the world, which I guess will be expounded on in the second book. All I understood is that a bunch of teens are sent to a facility where they live for two weeks getting to know each other(I guess) so that the boys and girls can pair up, and exercising(really, that’s like all they did), as well as learning more about what is right and wrong and being responsible for your actions and choices. I was really confused about the point of all that, but I guess it truly was so that the boys and girls get to know each other and decide who to pair with so they are not Tithed, although apparently that doesn’t guarantee that they are not Tithed(I guess).
I wanted to like Senna, but she was a bit wishy-washy about everything. About how she disagreed with the Alders rule and the decisions they make, the punishments that are done for those who disobey, and yet she said at the beginning that it’s like a totalitarian government, but we make our choices and decisions and made it sound like she is okay with the government. Then she seemed to be indecisive about the guy she loves allowing the attraction of another guy to distract her. I do admire how she keeps a level head, and wants to help others, but she did seem to be a bit selfish at times only thinking about her feelings, and not Gabe’s(as an example).
I’m not a fan of love triangles(and I feel like this one has one going on), but the way this book ended makes me curious to know how the story continues. Maybe I will get more answers about the monsters and the world.
From the start, I was pretty into the book. I thought it was an interesting idea that where they lived there is a wall that separates humans from the monsters, and there is a Tithe each year where they send ten humans to the wall as a peace treaty with the monsters.
However, this first book really didn’t explain much about the monsters, or how this pact between the humans and monsters came about with the wall. Senna did explain a bit about how her world is ruled and controlled, but that’s about it. I mean I really got nothing from the book. It seemed to primarily focus on Senna and her story and experience through the two week stay at the facility, which is fine, but I love world building and would like to know more about the world, which I guess will be expounded on in the second book. All I understood is that a bunch of teens are sent to a facility where they live for two weeks getting to know each other(I guess) so that the boys and girls can pair up, and exercising(really, that’s like all they did), as well as learning more about what is right and wrong and being responsible for your actions and choices. I was really confused about the point of all that, but I guess it truly was so that the boys and girls get to know each other and decide who to pair with so they are not Tithed, although apparently that doesn’t guarantee that they are not Tithed(I guess).
I wanted to like Senna, but she was a bit wishy-washy about everything. About how she disagreed with the Alders rule and the decisions they make, the punishments that are done for those who disobey, and yet she said at the beginning that it’s like a totalitarian government, but we make our choices and decisions and made it sound like she is okay with the government. Then she seemed to be indecisive about the guy she loves allowing the attraction of another guy to distract her. I do admire how she keeps a level head, and wants to help others, but she did seem to be a bit selfish at times only thinking about her feelings, and not Gabe’s(as an example).
I’m not a fan of love triangles(and I feel like this one has one going on), but the way this book ended makes me curious to know how the story continues. Maybe I will get more answers about the monsters and the world.
April 4, 2021
I rarely read a dystopian's book, and when I do, I tend to compare them to the Hunger Games or Giver. However, the blurb of this book intrigued me. I started with high expectations.
I'll start with all the things that I found right.
The plot: The plot kept my interest. And I didn't find any plot holes.
The characters: The characters were interesting enough to keep me engaged in the story.
Character arc: I see a character arc going, and I hope it will continue in the next two books.
The structure of the story was tight and cohesive.
What I didn't like.
Worldbuilding: the author didn't spend much time in this area. I'll like to know the structure of the world of this Dystopia. How it works, from where they get their goods, how large is the community vs. the wall? I would have loved to know why there was this tithe. What caused the tithe? Was there a war? All we got was that it was a totalitarian government. Okay, got it, but give me more; under a totalitarian government, there is structure, and there are several types of totalitarian governments.
Length of the book: I am a fantasy book lover. 180 some pages just tickled my brain. I'm not too fond of books that short. I feel I am being cheated, and in this case, It was that case. I was left with so many questions unanswered I wanted to toss the book.
The romance and Senna: She could not have been more selfish.
The two weeks of training were a piss poor replica of the tributes' training in the hunger games. What was the purpose of those two weeks of training? I am still trying to think of the purpose. According to the book, it was for the kids to pair up, but even if pairing up didn't guarantee, the Alderswould not choose them.
This book had a lot of potential.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'll start with all the things that I found right.
The plot: The plot kept my interest. And I didn't find any plot holes.
The characters: The characters were interesting enough to keep me engaged in the story.
Character arc: I see a character arc going, and I hope it will continue in the next two books.
The structure of the story was tight and cohesive.
What I didn't like.
Worldbuilding: the author didn't spend much time in this area. I'll like to know the structure of the world of this Dystopia. How it works, from where they get their goods, how large is the community vs. the wall? I would have loved to know why there was this tithe. What caused the tithe? Was there a war? All we got was that it was a totalitarian government. Okay, got it, but give me more; under a totalitarian government, there is structure, and there are several types of totalitarian governments.
Length of the book: I am a fantasy book lover. 180 some pages just tickled my brain. I'm not too fond of books that short. I feel I am being cheated, and in this case, It was that case. I was left with so many questions unanswered I wanted to toss the book.
The romance and Senna: She could not have been more selfish.
The two weeks of training were a piss poor replica of the tributes' training in the hunger games. What was the purpose of those two weeks of training? I am still trying to think of the purpose. According to the book, it was for the kids to pair up, but even if pairing up didn't guarantee, the Alderswould not choose them.
This book had a lot of potential.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 8, 2020
I picked this book because I liked Hunger Games and I generally like dystopian fantasies. I couldn't put it down and probably would have finished it in one night if I hadn't started it at 10pm and had work the next day. I really want to know what happens next!
Despite the parallels to Hunger Games, Tithe does not read like a copy and presents its own unique story and complex characters. In many ways, I found the character interaction much more plausible than Hunger Games although some elements of their world (like skinny jeans) seemed a bit too modern for the dystopian society.
I found the web of complex character interactions and morality interesting and compelling, and presented well while maintaining Senna's tone. I thought the concept of pairing interesting, and I like how Senna's friend at one point calls her out for trying to ignore something that's happening. I also really liked how the author tried to present the Alderman's views behind the system and that it was never condoned as acceptable, more of an immoral/unethical requirement that has to be carried out to the best of people's abilities and those people are trying to be moral but it's a terrible job no matter how you look at it.
Lastly, a big plot point at the end took me completely by surprise and it's usually tough to catch me on those plot twists. Really well done and I'd read again!
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Despite the parallels to Hunger Games, Tithe does not read like a copy and presents its own unique story and complex characters. In many ways, I found the character interaction much more plausible than Hunger Games although some elements of their world (like skinny jeans) seemed a bit too modern for the dystopian society.
I found the web of complex character interactions and morality interesting and compelling, and presented well while maintaining Senna's tone. I thought the concept of pairing interesting, and I like how Senna's friend at one point calls her out for trying to ignore something that's happening. I also really liked how the author tried to present the Alderman's views behind the system and that it was never condoned as acceptable, more of an immoral/unethical requirement that has to be carried out to the best of people's abilities and those people are trying to be moral but it's a terrible job no matter how you look at it.
Lastly, a big plot point at the end took me completely by surprise and it's usually tough to catch me on those plot twists. Really well done and I'd read again!
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 26, 2020
The first book in the latest trilogy ("The Offered") by Young Adult author Claire Vale, TITHE introduces us to a group of young adults at the beginning of their transition into adulthood. In Ironcross, this ritual is the Tithe - an offering to the beasts prowling outside the walls protecting Ironcross and its people from a dangerous post-apocalyptic world.
The impact of the tithe offering on the lives of the villagers is highlighted in the interaction between young lovers Senna and Gabe; and Senna and her father. Imagine being a parent who knows your child has a chance of being the price the rest of the village has to pay to remain safe!
Vale writes with an easy and fast pace, and raises tough questions about individual rights versus the rights of the community/society. In the era of the COVID pandemic, TITHE shows a world with a bleak future but also some hope as the characters of the young adults start to mature.
As this is Book One in the trilogy, the end was left open - Vale is a master at writing a suspenseful end hook, and I was left wanting to read more, so I immediately bought Book 2 of The Offered Trilogy, called Silk and carried on reading!!
The impact of the tithe offering on the lives of the villagers is highlighted in the interaction between young lovers Senna and Gabe; and Senna and her father. Imagine being a parent who knows your child has a chance of being the price the rest of the village has to pay to remain safe!
Vale writes with an easy and fast pace, and raises tough questions about individual rights versus the rights of the community/society. In the era of the COVID pandemic, TITHE shows a world with a bleak future but also some hope as the characters of the young adults start to mature.
As this is Book One in the trilogy, the end was left open - Vale is a master at writing a suspenseful end hook, and I was left wanting to read more, so I immediately bought Book 2 of The Offered Trilogy, called Silk and carried on reading!!
January 24, 2021
I love dystopian books, and the premise of this one hooked me in with ease. I loved the concept of the ten tithed souls as a treaty with the wall and the beasts on the other side.
What makes this book a four (and a half) for me, is that all we really know of the world is what is told to us through the protagonist, Senna. I wanted a little more world-building, maybe a small glimpse of the beasts we hear about to spark a little more fear of the tithe. I don't really understand how there is a treaty with the wall or beasts if they aren't human. How is there any agreement at all? I also wish there was a little bit more to the tithing process besides some exercise courses and a few Alder required activities. I was hoping for a little more action out of that part of the book.
The characters are flawed and seem pretty realistic to me, especially for impulsive 18-year-olds who are forced to immediately make a difficult and final life choice. The ending had a bit of a surprise and I definitely plan to read the next book to discover more of the story.
I received an advanced review copy for free from book sirens, and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
What makes this book a four (and a half) for me, is that all we really know of the world is what is told to us through the protagonist, Senna. I wanted a little more world-building, maybe a small glimpse of the beasts we hear about to spark a little more fear of the tithe. I don't really understand how there is a treaty with the wall or beasts if they aren't human. How is there any agreement at all? I also wish there was a little bit more to the tithing process besides some exercise courses and a few Alder required activities. I was hoping for a little more action out of that part of the book.
The characters are flawed and seem pretty realistic to me, especially for impulsive 18-year-olds who are forced to immediately make a difficult and final life choice. The ending had a bit of a surprise and I definitely plan to read the next book to discover more of the story.
I received an advanced review copy for free from book sirens, and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
January 30, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was definitely not expecting to enjoy this as much as I did! I really loved the way the author created the characters, the setting, and the world in which I was immersed in, and totally invested in.
I thought it was going to be Hunger Games, reworked, and to some degree there were definite similarities, however it was different enough to make it's own mark.
I read this in two sittings, and ended up staying up until 01:11am to finish this book, thank goodness it was a Friday night and I didn't need to get up early the next day.
The characters were likeable and relatable, the story itself was interesting and this is definitely a series that I am going to be reading to its conclusion, and an author that I will keep an eye out for, for more of her work.
Highly recommended if you enjoy post-apocalyptic stories with a bit of romance and the angst of whether or not you need to drink the kool-aid! This does end on a cliff hanger of sorts, so don't expect a neatly wrapped up ending.
I was definitely not expecting to enjoy this as much as I did! I really loved the way the author created the characters, the setting, and the world in which I was immersed in, and totally invested in.
I thought it was going to be Hunger Games, reworked, and to some degree there were definite similarities, however it was different enough to make it's own mark.
I read this in two sittings, and ended up staying up until 01:11am to finish this book, thank goodness it was a Friday night and I didn't need to get up early the next day.
The characters were likeable and relatable, the story itself was interesting and this is definitely a series that I am going to be reading to its conclusion, and an author that I will keep an eye out for, for more of her work.
Highly recommended if you enjoy post-apocalyptic stories with a bit of romance and the angst of whether or not you need to drink the kool-aid! This does end on a cliff hanger of sorts, so don't expect a neatly wrapped up ending.
June 20, 2024
This story revolves around the approaching secretive event "tithe" wherein 10 individuals will be tithed to the wall. The book starts out great, it gives a brief look into the normal lives of the characters. The fmc is smart, kind and caring those around her, but is dramatic and selfish at times, adding depth to her personality. While the mmc is the typical charming character but has his flaws.
I love the dystopia theme on which the story is based and the way it unfolds. The plot twist contradicts previous words of a certain character 👀 and took me by surprise but added an exciting touch. As the book approaches the end, the romance dynamics between the characters get confusing but adds an intriguing element that kept me interested.
The uncertain romance dynamics and the mystery surrounding the events post tithe has piqued my interest for the sequel. I would definitely recommend this book to the fans of "The hunger games".
July 24, 2022
Sacrifice?
The world as we know it is gone. The walled town is filled by Aldermen. There are laws that must be followed. One is the Tithe. It is a treaty signed by the Aldermen years and years ago. On November 1 everyone who has reached the age of 18 must report for the Tithe. 10 of these will be given to the wall for the monsters who live in the forest outside the wall. As long as they Tithe these 10 people the monsters will not climb the wall and attack the town. Seena and Gabe are part of the group this year as well as some of their friends. For two weeks they are grouped up and perform different tasks assigned by the Aldermen. What is really on the other side? Who will be chosen to go to the other side? Is there escape from the monsters on the other side? This is an awesome story that I couldn't put down. I can't wait to dive into the next book!
The world as we know it is gone. The walled town is filled by Aldermen. There are laws that must be followed. One is the Tithe. It is a treaty signed by the Aldermen years and years ago. On November 1 everyone who has reached the age of 18 must report for the Tithe. 10 of these will be given to the wall for the monsters who live in the forest outside the wall. As long as they Tithe these 10 people the monsters will not climb the wall and attack the town. Seena and Gabe are part of the group this year as well as some of their friends. For two weeks they are grouped up and perform different tasks assigned by the Aldermen. What is really on the other side? Who will be chosen to go to the other side? Is there escape from the monsters on the other side? This is an awesome story that I couldn't put down. I can't wait to dive into the next book!
April 20, 2023
Decent Trilogy
I have just finished the series and it was a decent read. Not boring but also not exciting or spectacular. The MF character was just not likeable to me which made it a little harder to get onto. She was stubborn (and not in a good way ) and I don't think a single decision she made was done for any of the right reasons . The writing was good over all but didn't exactly build a world you could dive into . You kinda have to just draw your own conclusions or catch on to things that elude to where they are . Over all it was interesting enough to keep me reading until I finished the whole series but I'm not gonna lie. I did skip a lot of the filler content that didn't add to the story line.
I have just finished the series and it was a decent read. Not boring but also not exciting or spectacular. The MF character was just not likeable to me which made it a little harder to get onto. She was stubborn (and not in a good way ) and I don't think a single decision she made was done for any of the right reasons . The writing was good over all but didn't exactly build a world you could dive into . You kinda have to just draw your own conclusions or catch on to things that elude to where they are . Over all it was interesting enough to keep me reading until I finished the whole series but I'm not gonna lie. I did skip a lot of the filler content that didn't add to the story line.
December 10, 2024
This was a compelling read, although the romantic angst was quite drawn out, and I still feel like I’ve only read part of a story. There’s an outcome, but readers don’t get to experience it yet. I have read other books with steeper cliffhangers, and I tend to think the authors simply wrote one really long book, chopped it into thirds, and labeled it a trilogy—with minimal (or zero) resolution of plot threads at the ends. As far as Tithe, I felt invested in the story, but I’m torn as to whether to continue or just to give up in annoyance. I’m also amazed that the two main characters hooked up twice with not even a hint of a thought about whether Senna would get pregnant. I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s revealed she’s pregnant in the next book. But maybe that would be too realistic.
April 20, 2023
I think some people are too hard on books. IMHO, if it's a good story and it's told well, that's enough for five stars from me. If it's part of a series and makes me want to read more, that's enough for a five-star review from me. After all, if I didn't like it enough to give it five stars, why bother continuing?
This is one of those books. I love the characters (Kane fits my MO for dark, handsome badboys with a hero complex perfectly) and the concept is intriguing. This story made me laugh and cry (sometimes at the same time). It's well worth the read if you ask me. I'm already knee-deep in the rest of the series!
This is one of those books. I love the characters (Kane fits my MO for dark, handsome badboys with a hero complex perfectly) and the concept is intriguing. This story made me laugh and cry (sometimes at the same time). It's well worth the read if you ask me. I'm already knee-deep in the rest of the series!
June 27, 2020
Beautifully heartbreaking. I’m utterly speechless. This does not have the typical happy ending that is expected, but that’s what makes it real. I was rooting for the characters even when the outcome was clear. There were use enough twists in the right spots to keep you on your toes without feeling completely thrown together. Each twist made sense and after reading it, you know it was the right choice for the characters (even if it crushes you).
Matched meets Hunger Games in this book of the largest rollercoaster of emotions I’ve read this year.
Matched meets Hunger Games in this book of the largest rollercoaster of emotions I’ve read this year.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2021
I enjoy coming of age novels and this one set in a supposedly benign totalitarian regime is nicely written.
The premise of the tale is each year the regime hands over ten 18 year olds to 'whatever' is outside their perimeter wall. If the 18 year old is not paired with a person of the opposite gender they are more likely to be sacrificed.
The story follows closely 1 group of the 33 18 year olds
This story is to be continued.....
I received a free copy of this book and this is my honest voluntary review.
The premise of the tale is each year the regime hands over ten 18 year olds to 'whatever' is outside their perimeter wall. If the 18 year old is not paired with a person of the opposite gender they are more likely to be sacrificed.
The story follows closely 1 group of the 33 18 year olds
This story is to be continued.....
I received a free copy of this book and this is my honest voluntary review.
July 2, 2023
Loved it!
I started this book intrigued but not sure what to expect. Little by little, I was drawn into this uncomfortable futuristic world and the characters who live there. Eventually, I could hardly put it down, and now I am eager to start the second book in the series. So many difficult questions about love, honor, strength, courage, justice, ethics and morality. The author has produced a solid book and series. I can't wait to travel on with Senna and her Tithe mates to find out what happens!
I started this book intrigued but not sure what to expect. Little by little, I was drawn into this uncomfortable futuristic world and the characters who live there. Eventually, I could hardly put it down, and now I am eager to start the second book in the series. So many difficult questions about love, honor, strength, courage, justice, ethics and morality. The author has produced a solid book and series. I can't wait to travel on with Senna and her Tithe mates to find out what happens!
May 26, 2024
Not Bad, But Not Great
This was a pretty good read, but there was very little about it that was new or original. It felt like reading Hugh Howey’s Wool series, combined with The Hunger Games, and flavored with a bit of Divergent.
It was your typical post-apocalyptic dystopian novel in which the main character is a headstrong, whiny, self centered, narcissistic teenage girl. Oh, and the love triangle is very prevalent as well.
I enjoyed reading it, but I’m not rushing out to buy the second one.
This was a pretty good read, but there was very little about it that was new or original. It felt like reading Hugh Howey’s Wool series, combined with The Hunger Games, and flavored with a bit of Divergent.
It was your typical post-apocalyptic dystopian novel in which the main character is a headstrong, whiny, self centered, narcissistic teenage girl. Oh, and the love triangle is very prevalent as well.
I enjoyed reading it, but I’m not rushing out to buy the second one.
October 14, 2020
Definitely a book for fans of hunger games with this authors own unique flair. This highlights young budding love as well as what that looks like to different people. The characters are young adults facing life decisions and commitments. It’s book one of a series so there are still many unanswered mysteries surrounding the state of their lives, which lends to a “ maze runner” feel as well. Never the less, I very much would love book 2. All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
December 31, 2023
It was a relatively short read, and I’m hoping the second book is better than the first. The first 100 or so pages felt unneeded, it was really just the FMC going on about how much she loves her boyfriend and making out.. it’s a dystopian novel, give me more dystopian. I wish the author had gone more into the backstory of the Tithe. I don’t think it was a terrible read, but certainly not the most exciting. Senna’s a little annoying, but Kane is DELICIOUS and I need more of him.
January 11, 2024
This book whilst well written, has very odd world building that is full of holes and will fall apart once you start thinking about it for too long.
Although they seemingly live in an “authoritarian” regime, they still have full understanding of how life was lived in the past, still wear modern clothes and have films, despite the fact they had to rebuild a community 100 odd years ago, and only have a population of around 2500 140 years later.
Although they seemingly live in an “authoritarian” regime, they still have full understanding of how life was lived in the past, still wear modern clothes and have films, despite the fact they had to rebuild a community 100 odd years ago, and only have a population of around 2500 140 years later.
January 13, 2024
I really liked this book, but there were some inconsistencies in the writing and it caused me to flip back pages, at times, to make sure I didn’t miss something.
There love story is cute to follow and the ending wasn’t what I expected, which I love. I’m not too big into YA novels but I really liked this one. I liked how the characters acted their age and weren’t trying to act so much older like in some YA books.
There love story is cute to follow and the ending wasn’t what I expected, which I love. I’m not too big into YA novels but I really liked this one. I liked how the characters acted their age and weren’t trying to act so much older like in some YA books.
March 12, 2024
Dystopian romance is my new favorite genre and this one doesn’t disappoint. I liked that the readers still does not know what the Tithe entails by the end of the book- it created a sense of urgency and displacement that makes me want to keep reading to find out all the answers. The downfall of Senna and Gabe was poetic and the result surprised me! I was definitely kept guessing and shocked at the end. Starting book 2 immediately!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2020
This is a quick, sensational read. I couldn't put it down. Fans of Hunger Games and Divergent will love Tithe. The characters are dynamic and the relationships will draw you in. Not to mention a great cliffhanger ending. I'm looking forward to book #2.
Thank you so much to the author and BookSirens for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you so much to the author and BookSirens for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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