129 books
—
20 voters
Goodreads helps you keep track of books you want to read.
Start by marking “Gifted (Donovan Circus, #1)” as Want to Read:
Gifted
(Donovan Circus #1)
by
Librarian's note: Alternate cover edition of ASIN B007VT34J2.
Even in a world of freaks, being a Firestarter is considered a dangerous Gift.
Lucy was born with the ability to create and control fire. She longs to leave the human world for one filled with Earthshakers, Transporters, and Chameleons, to name a few. When she rejoins the circus, it’s everything she hoped it could ...more
Even in a world of freaks, being a Firestarter is considered a dangerous Gift.
Lucy was born with the ability to create and control fire. She longs to leave the human world for one filled with Earthshakers, Transporters, and Chameleons, to name a few. When she rejoins the circus, it’s everything she hoped it could ...more
Kindle Edition, 299 pages
Published
June 2015
by Liz Long
(first published April 18th 2012)
Friend Reviews
To see what your friends thought of this book,
please sign up.
Reader Q&A
To ask other readers questions about
Gifted,
please sign up.
Be the first to ask a question about Gifted
Community Reviews
Showing 1-30
Start your review of Gifted (Donovan Circus, #1)
So, the truth behind circus performers is finally revealed and Liz Long has done an amazing job bringing this high tension, YA fantasy to life! GIFTED is filled with fabulous characters, a little young romance, danger, and a deadly mystery to unravel.
Lucy thought it would be like going home, to somewhere she would belong, be accepted and not have to hide her gift after tragedy struck and she was a teen alone in the world. The biggest problem seems to be her talent, she is a Firestarter and feare ...more
Lucy thought it would be like going home, to somewhere she would belong, be accepted and not have to hide her gift after tragedy struck and she was a teen alone in the world. The biggest problem seems to be her talent, she is a Firestarter and feare ...more
This was pretty good, not quite my thing and I won't go on to the next book. Nonetheless, a well written novel.
OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG READ THIS READ THIS RIGHT NOW! DOOOO IT! IF YOU AREN'T READING THIS BOOK YOU ARE MISSING OUT! .... so now that i had ...wait no i got a little more in me.. REEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAADDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD IIIIIIITTTTTTTT! okay so now that i am done gushing and having my little freak out on how awesome this book was i will tell you alllll the many many many many many many many many many many reasons why it was so AWESOME!
Okay so first and for most the plot! oh how i lo ...more
Okay so first and for most the plot! oh how i lo ...more
Lucy has now lost both her mother and her father so she is running away to the circus. The Donovan Circus is full of Gifted people and Lucy feels that may be the only place she will truly belong. With the gift of being a Firestarter, it may be a little harder fitting in, especially being a female Firestarter, which is rare. Returning to the circus life is anything but easy though. She must earn the trust of the other members and work her way up. Thankfully she is not the only new person starting
...more
I love (LOVE) finding awesome new authors and Liz Long is certainly one to watch.
Gifted is Liz Long's debut novel and I have to say, what a promising debut!! Gifted is well thought out, has likeable characters (I love Lucy), (<-- No, I am not plugging the old sitcom right there, although I do love 'I love Lucy' too) and the pacing is great.
At the very beginning, I was afraid that it was going to turn into a slow book, which I personally don't like. However, I was pleasantly surprised when the pa ...more
Gifted is Liz Long's debut novel and I have to say, what a promising debut!! Gifted is well thought out, has likeable characters (I love Lucy), (<-- No, I am not plugging the old sitcom right there, although I do love 'I love Lucy' too) and the pacing is great.
At the very beginning, I was afraid that it was going to turn into a slow book, which I personally don't like. However, I was pleasantly surprised when the pa ...more
I was immediately engaged as we are introduced to the circus and the world of the gifted through Lucy. Unfortunately this introduction phase went on a little too long and my interested flagged a little but don't despair. Things picked up soon as Lucy and her new friends go for a night on the town and from then on the story and action flowed nicely. Lucy is likable. The stupid love triangle less so. It is not a real love triangle because you have nice guy fire starter Keegan whom Lucy has a coupl
...more
What it's about:
Gifted is the story of Lucy Sullivan, a young woman grieving the semi-recent loss of both her parents. The book opens as she contacts Sheffield Donovan, owner and Ringmaster of the Donovan Circus, to ask if she can join up. Lucy was raised in the circus until her parents left to have a normal life. Now that her parents are gone, Lucy is anxious to re-enter a world where she can feel comfortable, accepted, and understood. She's never felt truly at home in the world outside the cir ...more
Gifted is the story of Lucy Sullivan, a young woman grieving the semi-recent loss of both her parents. The book opens as she contacts Sheffield Donovan, owner and Ringmaster of the Donovan Circus, to ask if she can join up. Lucy was raised in the circus until her parents left to have a normal life. Now that her parents are gone, Lucy is anxious to re-enter a world where she can feel comfortable, accepted, and understood. She's never felt truly at home in the world outside the cir ...more
From http://readingandwritingurbanfantasy....
At a Glance
I had so much fun reading this book. It got better and better with each page. Gifted has an original concept that makes you sit up and take notice.
The Good
Here's the Story...
Lucy is finally home. Going back to the circus after the death of both her parents seems like the perfect idea. It's a place where she can be herself once again. No more hiding her fiery gift. She will finally fit in among people like her, the gifted. Just as her life ...more
At a Glance
I had so much fun reading this book. It got better and better with each page. Gifted has an original concept that makes you sit up and take notice.
The Good
Here's the Story...
Lucy is finally home. Going back to the circus after the death of both her parents seems like the perfect idea. It's a place where she can be herself once again. No more hiding her fiery gift. She will finally fit in among people like her, the gifted. Just as her life ...more
I gave it a chapter, but despite being about a circus full of superpowers, I was bored. The writing was a touch on the stilted side, but not terrible— I could have put up with it if I’d cared about the story.
Apr 15, 2016
Jo Michaels
rated it
it was amazing
Recommends it for:
those who love books about paranormal abilities
I grabbed a paperback copy of Gifted on Amazon after watching copies fly off a table at a book signing conference. There was this innate need inside me to find out what secrets were hidden on the pages. Full disclosure: I'm a total geek over X-Men. Total. Geek. I used to play the video game at the arcade (Storm was my favorite character to play as), I own all the movies, and I love supernatural ability stories--I'm also a huge Heroes fan. Why did I bother telling you all that? Because if you lov
...more
Before I review, you must know something about me. I have a whole collection of books I've started reading and never finished. My attention span is quite short, so if a book doesn't suck me into the story almost immediately, I move on to something else. Life is too short to read bad books.
I was captivated in the first few pages. The story doesn't start off slow and ease you into this supernatural world. It assumes you're an intelligent reader who can figure it out as the story moves along. I lov ...more
I was captivated in the first few pages. The story doesn't start off slow and ease you into this supernatural world. It assumes you're an intelligent reader who can figure it out as the story moves along. I lov ...more
Let me first say I received this book free, in exchange for a fair and honest review:
I'll resist the temptation to repeat the comparisons that some others have made to this book and "X-Men". Not because the similarities aren't there, I'd just rather go down my own path. Many of the main characters in this book do have powers - and they're just as cool as those possessed by the X crew - but there the comparison ends. Wolverine et al seek to rid the world of the bad guys - the folks in "Gifted" a ...more
I'll resist the temptation to repeat the comparisons that some others have made to this book and "X-Men". Not because the similarities aren't there, I'd just rather go down my own path. Many of the main characters in this book do have powers - and they're just as cool as those possessed by the X crew - but there the comparison ends. Wolverine et al seek to rid the world of the bad guys - the folks in "Gifted" a ...more
Lucy is gifted, like so many others in the world with a special power, hers is fire. Lucy is a firestarter, someone who can create and control fire. Soon after the death of both her parents she decides it's time to return to the place she spent part of her childhood, the Donovan Circus. There gifted people, mixed with a few actual humans, put on an amazing show to entertain the masses. Lucy will make new friends and start to feel like she belongs again, but before the good feeling can sink in so
...more
May 20, 2015
Lenore Kosinski
rated it
liked it
·
review of another edition
Shelves:
kindle,
won-it-or-gifted
3.5 stars -- LOVED the uniqueness of the world that Ms. Long gives us. Seriously, why aren't there more books set in circuses? Definitely a cool premise, and was executed well with a lot of description to make you feel like you could really imagine it. Strangely enough, I almost felt like there was too much description...it made for a slower beginning. So while I appreciated having a vivid picture, I kept wanting something to happen a lot sooner than it did.
Lucy was intriguing. I didn't always g ...more
Lucy was intriguing. I didn't always g ...more
Lucy is a firestarter. What does that mean? It means that she can control fire and manipulate it to do her bidding...whatever that might be. After her parents die, she joins the Donovan Circus, an organization that is full of talented individuals called the 'Gifted.' They're basically people with superpowers who make a living as circus freaks. Mind readers, runners, earthshakers, you got it. But when people start showing up charbroiled to a crisp (AKA dead), all fingers point to Lucy, the newcom
...more
May 18, 2012
Mlpmom (Book Reviewer)
rated it
really liked it
·
review of another edition
Shelves:
kindle-books,
kindle-lending
This is the third book I have read that involved a circus of some form or another and really, I don't know why I don't read more of them. I have loved every single one of them.
And while they have all been different reads, they have all been just as fabulous and unique as this one was.
I really enjoyed the paranormal aspect in this novel. The characters, the family feel of the circus, the mystery behind the deaths, the details. Everything was just very well done.
I am so sorry it has taken me so l ...more
And while they have all been different reads, they have all been just as fabulous and unique as this one was.
I really enjoyed the paranormal aspect in this novel. The characters, the family feel of the circus, the mystery behind the deaths, the details. Everything was just very well done.
I am so sorry it has taken me so l ...more
Jun 19, 2012
Marcy Kennedy
rated it
really liked it
·
review of another edition
Shelves:
urban-fantasy
I enjoyed the unique premise of a whole community of "gifted" hiding in plain sight as circus performers. The plot pulled me in right away as Lucy Sullivan joins the circus after the deaths of her parents. Although she grew up in this circus, her family left for a "normal" life and her father forbid Lucy from practicing her Firestarter gift. The story's suspense revolves around Lucy learning why her family left and who is causing the accidents and murders at the circus.
After a strong beginning, ...more
After a strong beginning, ...more
I have to admit that I am a little surprised at how much I enjoyed this book! I've never been a fan of the circus theme, so I think under normal circumstances I wouldn't have bought this book; however, I met the author at a conference and after talking with her about the book (and other things!) I decided to give it a try. I'm so glad I did!
I truly believe Liz Long is an author to watch. Not only is Gifted a very interesting and engaging story, but Long's writing is terrific. She strikes the per ...more
I truly believe Liz Long is an author to watch. Not only is Gifted a very interesting and engaging story, but Long's writing is terrific. She strikes the per ...more
This is a tale of twists and turns. While some of it can be predictable, it is a thrilling tale. Lucy came of as being whiney and weak in the beginning, but as the story progressed she became a stronger character ready to lead her army of gifted. I liked the blend of different powers that was done well. interesting, ready for the next one.
Good
This is a very good book. It has strong characters and the main character is great you can see everything as you read as if you were there. There is action, magic, mystery, friendships and love. So grab it and enjoy reading a great book.
This is a very good book. It has strong characters and the main character is great you can see everything as you read as if you were there. There is action, magic, mystery, friendships and love. So grab it and enjoy reading a great book.
I have found a new series to love
I love the circus, and this series is perfect. The details all felt authentic, like I was on the grounds with the crew. Lucy is a wonderful character and I can't wait to see what happens next!
I love the circus, and this series is perfect. The details all felt authentic, like I was on the grounds with the crew. Lucy is a wonderful character and I can't wait to see what happens next!
FULL REVIEW CAN BE FOUND AT http://oneguysguidetogoodreads.blogsp...
My Thoughts on Gifted:
As I type this I have JUST finished Gifted and have so much to say I can't hardly get it all down in time. Let me just say this: I am completely and utterly speechless. I love paranormal, I love New Adult fiction, and I LOVE anything circus themed but holy-hell Batman, I was NOT expecting that read to effect me the way it did. Woah. Seriously. If I was to do a Top 5 Reads of 2014 (that weren't necessarily ...more
My Thoughts on Gifted:
As I type this I have JUST finished Gifted and have so much to say I can't hardly get it all down in time. Let me just say this: I am completely and utterly speechless. I love paranormal, I love New Adult fiction, and I LOVE anything circus themed but holy-hell Batman, I was NOT expecting that read to effect me the way it did. Woah. Seriously. If I was to do a Top 5 Reads of 2014 (that weren't necessarily ...more
♥ Find my reviews on Blogger ~ Reviews by Bookish Sarah
- - -
Gifted is the story of 23-year-old Lucy Sullivan. After the death of both of her parents, Lucy makes her way back to the only family she has left - the Gifted folks of Donovan Circus. Lucy was raised in the circus until her parents decided to leave so that Lucy could live a “normal” life.
As a Firestarter, someone who can create and control fire, Lucy has never felt like she could be her true self outside of the circus. It's a constant ...more
Wow.
Lucy is leaving one chapter of her life for a new one. Being raised in a circus was the most amazing life for Lucy. Then her parents took her away to live a “normal” life for a while. After they passed away, Lucy could only think to be surrounded by those like her. With her new life being threatened, she must step up to her potential. This was an exciting story. Would most definitely love to read more. Very well done.
Lucy is leaving one chapter of her life for a new one. Being raised in a circus was the most amazing life for Lucy. Then her parents took her away to live a “normal” life for a while. After they passed away, Lucy could only think to be surrounded by those like her. With her new life being threatened, she must step up to her potential. This was an exciting story. Would most definitely love to read more. Very well done.
Interesting story
This is an interesting story. I look forward to reading the other books in the series when I get the chance.
This is an interesting story. I look forward to reading the other books in the series when I get the chance.
The exposition was shoe-horned into every conversation. Lots of talking, little action until the end.
Overview:
Lucy Sullivan was special. "Gifted". She possessed the supernatural ability to create and control fire. She spent the first several years of her life as part of The Donovon Circus, alongside her parents. Lucy's father was delighted that his daughter had inherited had inherited his gift of of being a Firestarter. He even said that his proudest moment was when Lucy, as a toddler, first discovered her gift by burning up the sofa. When Lucy was 12, however, her parents decided to retire fro ...more
Lucy Sullivan was special. "Gifted". She possessed the supernatural ability to create and control fire. She spent the first several years of her life as part of The Donovon Circus, alongside her parents. Lucy's father was delighted that his daughter had inherited had inherited his gift of of being a Firestarter. He even said that his proudest moment was when Lucy, as a toddler, first discovered her gift by burning up the sofa. When Lucy was 12, however, her parents decided to retire fro ...more
Reminded me a bit of Brandon Sanderson's Calamity series in some parts. I bought the 4 book series for 99 cents so I'll keep going
Fun Under the Big Top
It's been twelve years since Lucy Sullivan's parents left Donovan Circus and took her to live in the human world. Her parents are gone now, both dead before their time, and Lucy wants to return to her roots...and her own kind. Donovan Circus, one of the few places in the world that shelter and provide for gifted supernaturals like Lucy, is the only place where she can embrace what she really is: a Firestarter.
She's fitting back into the circus life well enough, making friend ...more
It's been twelve years since Lucy Sullivan's parents left Donovan Circus and took her to live in the human world. Her parents are gone now, both dead before their time, and Lucy wants to return to her roots...and her own kind. Donovan Circus, one of the few places in the world that shelter and provide for gifted supernaturals like Lucy, is the only place where she can embrace what she really is: a Firestarter.
She's fitting back into the circus life well enough, making friend ...more
This is a great book by Liz Long. It revolves around Lucy who is a firestarter. After her parents died she went back to the circus where her father was a firestarter until they decided to leave the circus. Sheffield, the owner of Donovan Circus, offered her a chance to come back to the circus if she ever wanted to. There she would be around others who were gifted. She stayed with Delia who is a Runner. Lucy is introduced to Jade who is telekinetic, Marty who is an Unbreakable, Lucinda who is a W
...more
| topics | posts | views | last activity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supernatural Gift | 1 | 2 | May 28, 2015 10:25AM |
Readers also enjoyed
Liz Long is a USA Today bestselling author of YA and urban fantasy, most recently The Brighton Duology. She is a magazine editor in Roanoke, VA, and when not writing, can be found drinking happy hour prosecco, attempting hand lettering, or cuddling her dog, Fisher. She is the Director of the Roanoke Regional Writers Conference and the annual Roanoke Author Invasion, as well as a public speaker, co
...more
Other books in the series
Donovan Circus
(5 books)
News & Interviews
You might know comedian Colin Jost from his work as the co-anchor of Saturday Night Live’s Weekend Update, or perhaps you know him as Scarlett Joha...
39 likes · 8 comments
No trivia or quizzes yet. Add some now »
