Today's Read Contributor V.E. Schwab’s Gallant is a hauntingly beautiful and atmospheric young adult novel that blends gothic mystery, family secrets, and a touch of the supernatural. Known for her talent in world-building and creating rich, emotional narratives, Schwab once again delivers a compelling story that transports readers into a world where the boundaries between the living and the dead are disturbingly thin.
The story centers around Olivia Prior, a mute girl with a troubled past who has been raised in an orphanage after being abandoned by her family. The one thing that connects her to her family is a mysterious journal written by her late mother, which contains cryptic entries about Gallant, an imposing manor that seems to be the key to Olivia’s past. After receiving an unexpected invitation to the manor, Olivia embarks on a journey that leads her into the heart of the mysterious Gallant, where she uncovers dark secrets about her family, her mother’s tragic history, and the haunting world that exists just beyond the walls of the house.
Gallant shines because of its richly atmospheric setting. Schwab expertly captures the eerie, otherworldly qualities of Gallant and its surroundings. The manor itself is a character in its own right—shadowed, silent, and full of untold histories. The gothic vibe is palpable, evoking a sense of unease and wonder that permeates the story. Schwab’s prose is lyrical and evocative, painting vivid images of the grim beauty that defines the world Olivia enters, drawing readers into a place that feels both magical and ominous.
Olivia is an incredibly compelling protagonist. Despite her lack of speech, Schwab effectively conveys her emotional depth and inner world. Olivia’s journey toward self-discovery is touching, especially as she uncovers not only the truths about her family but also the emotional baggage she has carried with her for so long. Her silence becomes a powerful metaphor for her isolation and longing, but her resilience and determination to uncover the truth make her an inspiring and empathetic character. Readers will root for her as she unravels the tangled mysteries of her past, making her a truly memorable heroine.
The novel’s plot moves slowly at first, but Schwab weaves an intriguing narrative filled with mystery and suspense. The story explores the concept of parallel worlds, with Gallant serving as a gateway to a shadowy dimension where things are not quite as they seem. The tension builds gradually as Olivia uncovers more about her family’s dark history and the sinister forces that linger in Gallant. The plot is sprinkled with eerie encounters, emotional moments, and the thrill of discovery, though it may feel a bit predictable for some readers who are familiar with Schwab’s style.
The themes of grief, family, and identity are central to Gallant, and Schwab explores them with subtlety and grace. As Olivia uncovers the truth about her mother’s death and the hidden history of Gallant, she grapples with feelings of abandonment, loss, and her own place in the world. The story is not only about uncovering dark secrets but also about learning to confront one’s own fears and find strength in the face of overwhelming odds.
One of the most unique aspects of Gallant is the duality of the world Schwab creates. The book is split between the living world and the dark, twisted version of Gallant, which has been overtaken by ghosts, shadows, and forgotten memories. The eerie contrast between these worlds creates a chilling, immersive atmosphere that makes the stakes feel incredibly high for Olivia and the people she meets along the way.
In conclusion, Gallant is a beautifully written, atmospheric novel that is equal parts gothic mystery and heart-wrenching emotional journey. V.E. Schwab once again proves her mastery of storytelling with a dark, immersive world and a cast of characters who are complex and compelling. While the pacing can feel slow at times, the payoff is worth it, as the novel builds toward a powerful, satisfying conclusion. Fans of Schwab’s previous works and readers who enjoy stories with an eerie, magical twist will find much to love in Gallant. It’s a haunting, poignant tale that will linger with readers long after they turn the last page.
