43 pages • 1 hour read
Gallant
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Book Brief
310
Novel • Fiction
England • Early 20th Century
2022
YA
13+ years
Super Short Summary
Gallant by V. E. Schwab tells the story of Olivia Prior, an orphaned girl with a speech disability who discovers that she is the heir to an estate with a mysterious and dangerous legacy. As Olivia begins to uncover the truth behind this legacy, she struggles with the question of how to make a home out of a place that is defined by tragedy and populated by people who struggle to share their own losses and secrets. This novel contains references to suicide, murder, ableist language and viewpoints, and animal death.
Mysterious
Dark
Fantastical
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
126,344 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Gallant by V. E. Schwab is lauded for its atmospheric storytelling and compelling protagonist. Readers appreciate the haunting, gothic ambiance and lush prose. Criticisms include a slower pace and a plot some find predictable. Overall, it remains a beautifully crafted tale with a strong emotional core.
Who Should Read Gallant?
A reader who would enjoy Gallant by V. E. Schwab likely appreciates atmospheric, Gothic tales with strong, complex characters. Similar to fans of The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett and The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, they crave a blend of eerie, dark mystery and heartfelt narrative.
126,344 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Matthew Prior
Matthew Prior
A tragic character who is deeply affected by the family's curse and whose past loss and burden define his interactions with others. He is dedicated to fulfilling the Prior family's responsibilities and plays a key role in guiding Olivia.
The Master of the House
The Master of the House
The primary antagonist, characterized by his eerie appearance and cunning nature. He aims to escape the shadow-realm to enter Olivia's world, representing a threat that drives the narrative's conflict.
Hannah and Edgar
Hannah and Edgar
Caretakers of Gallant who have been with the Prior family for generations. They serve as parental figures to Matthew and Olivia, offering support and helping Olivia redefine her understanding of family.
310
Novel • Fiction
England • Early 20th Century
2022
YA
13+ years
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