Goodreads helps you keep track of books you want to read.

Start by marking “Talent (Descended from Myth #2)” as Want to Read:

Other editions

Enlarge cover

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

Open Preview

more photos (1)

Talent

(Descended From Myth #2)

Erin McFadden (Goodreads Author)

4.61 · Rating details · 28 ratings · 19 reviews

Porter McGavin spends his nights lost in shattered memories of blood, sand, and ammunition, and his days struggling to hold together the tattered shreds of his life. The combat veteran is barely surviving his battle scars when he's offered a chance to once again have a future with purpose, as a member of The Brotherhood of Guardians, an ancient group of warriors sworn to p ...more

Get A Copy

ebook

More Details... Edit Details

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Reader Q&A

To ask other readers questions about Talent, please sign up.

Be the first to ask a question about Talent

Lists with This Book

This book is not yet featured on Listopia. Add this book to your favorite list »

Community Reviews

Showing 1-48

Average rating 4.61 ·

Rating details

· 28 ratings · 19 reviews

More filters

Sort order

Start your review of Talent (Descended from Myth #2)

Jan 02, 2016 Claire - The Coffeeholic Bookworm rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

I am always on the lookout for a unique story, whether it's a YA, Fantasy or Paranormal Romance. I loved being surprised by the characters and getting drawn into a whole new world. When I read Muse by Erin McFadden a year ago, I knew it was a gem. I met interestingly unique characters like Daniel and Anna and had been with them ever since.

A few days ago, I got the chance to read the second book, Talent and like the first one, I was blown away. Porter Mcgavin was a combat veteran who occasionall I am always on the lookout for a unique story, whether it's a YA, Fantasy or Paranormal Romance. I loved being surprised by the characters and getting drawn into a whole new world. When I read Muse by Erin McFadden a year ago, I knew it was a gem. I met interestingly unique characters like Daniel and Anna and had been with them ever since.

A few days ago, I got the chance to read the second book, Talent and like the first one, I was blown away. Porter Mcgavin was a combat veteran who occasionally had dreams about his last mission, the day when all of his comrades died from a surprise attack. Porter was the only one left alive. He always woke up reeling and grasping for straws, never learning how it all happened and why. With no more family and comrades to boot, he decided to accept Daniel Lyoncourt's offer of training and becoming a Watcher for the Brotherhood of Guardians. There, he realized he could do what he was good at, without worrying about his past.

Claire Montgomery was a broken Talent, her mind had been used for monetary reasons by Sebastian Finn. Rescued by Daniel and the Brotherhood, Claire was having trust issues at people, even though she knew they were only looking out for her. Protecting her. But there was this undeniable connection she felt with a certain Watcher and she didn't undersand why her gift of Influence render her weak and bleeding everytime. Could she be an anomaly? Was there a reason behind the headaches she'd been experiencing? Who was the Watcher and what was his connection to her life?

I have nothing but good words for this sequel. Talent is another addition to my new favorites this year. Claire (oh I really love this name, I wonder why LOL) and her tragic life experiences is keeping her from having a normal life. I totally understand her situation, and I couldn't help but feel bad for her. Porter McGavin also stood out for me, his life during the war and how he managed to stay alive even after his entire group was wiped out made me reach out for him. He isn't perfect, he isn't even as ruggedly handsome as his opponent Ryan Calhoun who seemed to have come out of the pages of GQ magazine. But there's something about his battle scars and wounded spirit that drew me in.

Once again, Erin McFadden delivered a unique story, a far cry from other paranormal romances I've read last year. Her writing improves and the peculiar stories she writes continue to baffle and mystify and captivate me. Guardians, Watchers, Talents and Muses. Sounds generic to you? To me, these sound magnificent. And I will keep on reading Descended From Myth series because I know, great things are happening and soon to happen. Erin, when's book 3 coming out? I want to see Ryan Calhoun again! ...more

flag 3 likes · Like · see review

Jan 04, 2016 Frederic rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: paranomal-romance, favorites

Each time I am reading one book of Erin McFadden, I know it will be a treat, and this one was no exception!!! It is the Third book that she has written, and the third one that I was unable to put down!! I was graciously offered this book for free by the author in exchange of an honest review.

Let me be honest here, sometimes I am struggling while reading New Adult genre. It is always a matter of love them or hate them. Usually I can tell what will be my overall verdict within the first 3 or 4 cha Each time I am reading one book of Erin McFadden, I know it will be a treat, and this one was no exception!!! It is the Third book that she has written, and the third one that I was unable to put down!! I was graciously offered this book for free by the author in exchange of an honest review.

Let me be honest here, sometimes I am struggling while reading New Adult genre. It is always a matter of love them or hate them. Usually I can tell what will be my overall verdict within the first 3 or 4 chapters. Curious about this one? I will let you guess by reading my review!!!!!!

When I began Talent, I had high expectations because I loved the first book of the series(Muse). I must admit that between Claire and Myself, it was not love at first sight. She came across as spoiled and whining, 2 of the worst traits in a character. I was bracing myself for a ride that will be bumpy, but Porter saved the day! His darkness and his suffering just sent an arrow straight to my heart and I was helplessly sold out. I really loved to get to know how Porter background story is intimately linked to what was and is currently happening to Claire.

Speaking of Claire, she grew on me. I was able to suspend any judgment I had about her and in the end I really liked her. She might seem whining, but in the end she is a force to be reckoned with. I absolutely loved the strength that she had toward the end of the story and how she wanted to help Porter in any ways she could. She is absolutely incredible.

I don’t want to get in too much detail about the story, since I might be tempted to reveal some spoilers. I will tell you this: Erin Mcfadden timing and pace is always spot on story line wise. There is never a dull moment, the overall theme of talents (descending from Muse) is exciting and the Guardian Brotherhood is wonderfully crafted. My favorite part of the story was when Claire and Porter travelled together in Porter past to connect the dots. I won’t tell you how though!!!

What a Joy to have Anna and Daniel back!!! I was so excited to see their relationship grow! Instead of exclusively focusing on Porter and Claire story, the second instalment is expanding the whole talents/guardian realm and now I am very excited about the next books to come in the series!!! There are so many possibilities!!!! In my humble opinion, this book has the ingredients that was missing in the first book : a solid realm and a team of characters that I am excited to follow. Muse, was feeling more as a prequel, now we are getting into the nitty gritty and I love it!!!

I hope that we will have the chance to read some more about Ryan Calhoun in the next book!! I can’t wait to get back in Anna, Claire, Daniel & Porter universe!!!
...more

flag 2 likes · Like · see review

Sep 07, 2015 Melvina rated it it was amazing

Are you looking for a new series that is like no other....then look no further...the Descended From Myth series is an awesome and unique series that will immediately pull you into the world of Guardians, Talents and Watchers.

Although the books are in a series they can be read as stand alones.

Talent Book 2 of this series is the story of Porter and Claire.

Porter an emotionally and physically scarred combat veteran seemed to be barely surviving, fighting a losing battle to adjust to civilian life ...more

flag 2 likes · Like · see review

Jan 14, 2016 RO G'ma rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Talent (Descended from Myth Book Two) is the first book I’ve read that Erin McFadden wrote and it is an amazing read. This book can easily be read as a standalone. Ms. McFadden has written a well-crafted and unique story that I enjoyed reading. This book drew me in from the beginning and held me captive until the ending. I’m adding this talented author’s books to my Wish and TBR lists.

This book is about Guardians, Watchers, Talents, and Muses and focuses on Porter Mcgavin and Claire Montgomery. ...more

flag 2 likes · Like · see review

Feb 03, 2016 Jennifer Zamora rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

The first chapter or so kinda had me a little worried. But then the book took off and exploded with action, and held my attention. It was a did not put down, not a did not finish! I wish there had been a little more info and tie in to the year of training in the beginning, but I can live without it.
Porter has more than enough fight left in him. If only he had something left to Fight for. But he will have to come up against his own demons, which means he will have to remember.
Claire spent so many ...more

flag 2 likes · Like · see review

Jan 31, 2016 Shy rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: 2016-books

I find this second book to the series a lot more interesting and engaging than the first one. Though Claire's ability was deemed as less powerful than Anna's I find what she could do highly fascinating.

At first I had questions with regards to Porter being a guardian but the author managed to answer those questions very well. There are also revelations from this book that had me hooked and couldn't stop reading until I find out more.

What I enjoyed the most in this book was how the characters' re ...more

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Sep 07, 2015 Julie McCleary rated it it was amazing

Havr you ever a read a book where from the very first word you are completely hooked?
Erin McFadden's book Talent claimed my attention and more.
Talent is the story of Porter and Claire two broken and damaged people, one through war and loss and the other by abuse and captivity,
Coming together to resolve the mystery surrounding their connection.
I found the book easy to read, the words flowed smoothly and the characters where fascinating.
It is obvious that Ms McFadden has poured her heart and soul ...more

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Jan 28, 2016 Michelle Ferrari-Johnson rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

This is the first book of Erin McFadden's that I have read. Talk about being hooked from the get go. Absolutely love how she grabs your attention and takes you for a ride. I love when an author "makes" me not put their book down!
Such unique characters, Guardians, Talents and Watchers!
I am definitely a fan and already have the other books on my wish list! I will be getting my paws on these somehow!
If you are looking for something unique and extraordinary this series is for you! ...more

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Jul 01, 2016 Bob Platypire rated it really liked it · review of another edition

* I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an HONEST review*

I love this series. I know I've only read the first two, but I really love them. I like hearing about the different people and their gifts, and I enjoy the interactions between the Talents and their Guardians. The danger and thrill, the romance, and how well defined the characters are all add up to a big win with me. I look forward to reading more of the Descended from Myth series!

Bob says: 4 Platypires ...more

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Jan 30, 2016 Angie rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

I've been blown away by Erin's amazing writing ability. Talent has me even more impressed. If your looking for a series with an amazing story line and characters that keep you on your toes. Look no further. Book 2 in this series is absolutely amazing. The whole Talent and Guardian has swept me away. I can only hope that there will be a third book and the sooner the better! ...more

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Jan 14, 2016 Amanda Jane Williams rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

It has been a long time since I have read a book in 24 hours but this one was so good that I could not put it down. We follow Claire (a descendant of a muse) and Porter on a wild ride. It is well worth it though. Porter is damaged goods but then again so is Claire maybe that is why they are so good together. Do not start reading this if you have to be up early the next day.

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Jan 28, 2016 Ariel rated it really liked it · review of another edition

I loved this YA book despite the fact I have not read book one. I recommend this for those who are looking for a unique YA book.

flag 1 like · Like · see review

Jan 20, 2019 Emma rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

The Author Continues to Develop

I liked this story even more than the first one. The characters all gained some depth and there were even more storylines introduced. I still love hearing the tale from multiple perspectives and appreciated the fact that people were doing their best to help and care for others. Very easy light reading and a great way to spend a couple hours. I can't wait for the next book to come out. ...more

flag Like · see review

Aug 07, 2018 janice g. phelan rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Talent

Erin McFadden is a good author. Her characters in Descended from Myth books are lively and will keep you interested from start to finish. I found it well worth the money!!!
Jan

flag Like · see review

Apr 05, 2016 Rach Lawrence rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: 2016, gift-from-author, review-request

Review originally posted on Rach Lawrence Books.

*I was provided a copy of Talent by the author in exchange for an honest review. I am not compensated for my honest opinion.*

Claire Montgomery is a Talent who doesn’t trust the very organization charged with protecting her. She is able to see into people’s minds and help correct things that are wrong, this Talent descended from the original nine muses. But when using her Talent, Claire develops headaches and other problems, and those around her are Review originally posted on Rach Lawrence Books.

*I was provided a copy of Talent by the author in exchange for an honest review. I am not compensated for my honest opinion.*

Claire Montgomery is a Talent who doesn’t trust the very organization charged with protecting her. She is able to see into people’s minds and help correct things that are wrong, this Talent descended from the original nine muses. But when using her Talent, Claire develops headaches and other problems, and those around her are at a loss as to why. Now she’s about to be assigned her own Watcher from the Guardians, and she’ll have to figure out who she can really trust to keep her safe.

Porter McGavin has PTSD from serving in the military. He suffers alone, until he’s offered a position with the Guardians and he finally finds a place he fits in. When temporarily assigned to watch Claire, the two find an unexplained connection, but with Claire’s trust issues and Porter’s past coming back to haunt him, it will be a race against the clock to save both their lives.

Talent is book two of the Descended from Myth series and is a paranormal romance. Although a standalone book, there were some issues that were not fully discussed in this book, which may have been more thoroughly delved into in book one. Claire’s past was alluded to many times, and I had a general idea of what had happened to her, but there were missing pieces of information that might have rounded out my understanding of her character.

The first half of the book moved too slowly to hold my attention. The narrative was very telling, trying to catch the reader up on events that had already happened, and we learned about the characters through narrative rather than through actions.

Although the book got off to a very slow start, the second half was much more action packed and held my interest more. The plot was interesting, and I appreciated the connection between Claire and Porter and how their lives were intertwined once things got moving. The way all the pieces of the puzzle came together was satisfying and entertaining.

There were a lot of tense changes, which drew me out of the story, among other editing errors. Long paragraphs where one person’s dialogue was mixed with another person’s thoughts were also distracting. I had a difficult time visualizing Porter because the picture on the cover didn’t match his description in the book. My attention to the plot would have been stronger without these disruptions.

Three stars for this interesting paranormal romance. ...more

flag Like · see review

Jan 03, 2016 Jessica Del Fuoco rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Highly recommended YA Fantasy sequel we’ve been waiting for…

If you liked Muse, you will LOVE Talent, the second book in the Descended from Myth series.

****THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS. PLEASE READ MUSE FIRST BEFORE READING MY REVIEW***

In Muse, we met main characters Anna Saint-James and her Watcher, Daniel Lyoncourt. We were introduced to some characters whose story continues in Talent, specifically that of Claire Montgomery.

Claire was being held in solitary confinement by a former Guardia ...more

flag Like · see review

Mar 07, 2016 Merissa (Archaeolibrarian) rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: coming_of_age, fantasy, mythology

Okay, so I'm fickle. Hands up, I admit it. I didn't think that anyone could knock Daniel of his Hottie Spot, but it appears that Porter has just gone and done it!

Claire is a Talent, but she feels that she isn't really worth much as all she can do is "fix brains." Personally, I think that's brilliant, but that's her lesson to learn. Porter is brought on board by Anna and Daniel, and works hard to prove himself. Three Guardians are chosen to 'fight' for the position of Claire's Guardian, but circu ...more

flag Like · see review

Oct 01, 2016 T. rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

I enjoyed Muse, book one of the series which I picked up free on Amazon. A really interesting concept, but it's the character development and sub-plotting that make this a stand out from a lot of the YA urban fantasy stories. Excellent overall story line and fast action will keep you on the edge of your seat. ...more

flag Like · see review

Jan 18, 2017 Kat rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Oh mi Muse! I was so excited to catch back up to Anna and Daniel that I dove head first into this mesmerizing story. In this book Anna and Daniel were a bit more of background characters. Allowing Claire and our new literary Hunk to takeover the center stage. There are still glimpses of Anna and Daniel so you get to keep track of what they are doing. Claire thinks she is broken and that her gift is nowhere near as helpful as Anna's. Being over playing the third wheel, they begin the process to f ...more

flag Like · see review

Angie rated it it was amazing
Apr 06, 2017

Teri rated it really liked it
Aug 30, 2020

Patti rated it really liked it
Jan 17, 2018

Michele Breaux-Rowley rated it it was amazing
Jul 23, 2015

Jenna W rated it really liked it
Aug 27, 2016

Jada Powell rated it really liked it
Aug 25, 2016

Diane Welch rated it really liked it
Sep 13, 2016

Saint-Paul rated it it was amazing
Apr 17, 2017

Hank Ryan rated it it was amazing
Jul 14, 2016

Jenny Obenour marked it as to-read
Jul 22, 2015

Briony marked it as to-read
Jul 30, 2015

Frederic added it
Aug 18, 2015

Shagurika marked it as to-read
Aug 20, 2015

Laura marked it as to-read
Sep 07, 2015

Lynn marked it as to-read
Sep 07, 2015

JoAnne marked it as to-read
Sep 07, 2015

Kelly marked it as to-read
Sep 08, 2015

AkiraHeartnet marked it as to-read
Sep 30, 2015

Melannie marked it as to-read
Oct 24, 2015

Shannan Williams marked it as to-read
Oct 24, 2015

Jessica Del Fuoco marked it as to-read
Nov 01, 2015

Patricia Wilcoxen marked it as to-read
Nov 28, 2015

Nov 30, 2015 Erin McFadden added it · (Review from the author)

2 likes · Like

Tami czenkus marked it as to-read
Jan 02, 2016

Teri marked it as to-read
Jun 08, 2016

Melannie marked it as to-read
Nov 28, 2015

DHHReview marked it as to-read
Jan 08, 2016

Julie McCleary added it
Jan 14, 2016

Sarah Toussaint marked it as to-read
Aug 25, 2016

new topic
Discuss This Book

There are no discussion topics on this book yet. Be the first to start one »

Recommend It | Stats | Recent Status Updates

Genres

Fantasy > Mythology

2 users

See top shelves…

About Erin McFadden

Erin McFadden

81 followers

Contemporary fantasy author Erin McFadden lives in Indiana with her two daughters. They love reading and watching movies together, as well as camping and hiking in the great outdoors. Erin dreams of packing up and visiting all the magical, historical spots in Europe she has read about.
An unabashed geek, Erin loves science fiction, all things paranormal, and anything involving a conspiracy theory. ...more