Who Would Like This Book:
If you enjoy modern fantasy with a hefty dose of mythology, magic, and gods walking among us, "The Gate Thief" is a treat. Orson Scott Card weaves an imaginative world where the stakes are cosmic but the struggles remain relatable, especially for teens and fans of YA fantasy. The magic system is clever, the lore is rich, and readers who love books like Percy Jackson (but with a Norse twist) or Sanderson’s worldbuilding will likely get a kick out of it. If you enjoy coming-of-age stories mixed with high school drama and supernatural showdowns - plus some deep dives into comparative religion - the series delivers.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers have found issues with repetitive exposition, convoluted magical explanations, and a storyline that sometimes veers into awkward territory around gender roles. If heavy-handed philosophy, endless dialogue, or a high school setting packed with teenage angst isn’t your thing, this might frustrate you. Additionally, those sensitive to dated or stereotypical depictions of women, or who dislike noticeable author soapboxing on certain topics, may not enjoy parts of the narrative.
About:
In 'The Gate Thief', Orson Scott Card continues his quasi mythological tale featuring Danny, a powerful Gate Mage, as he navigates saving the world from evil forces while dealing with fellow mages who view humans as inferior. The book delves into complex world-building with elements of philosophy, mythology, and teenage angst, all while exploring the dynamics of power, morality, and cosmic conflicts. The plot unfolds with twists and turns, leading to a cliffhanger ending that sets the stage for a larger conflict.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
There may be themes involving violence, battles, and some philosophical discussions that could be intense for younger readers.
Has Romance?
There are elements of teenage romance, but they are not the central focus of the narrative.
From The Publisher:
In this sequel to The Lost Gate, bestselling author Orson Scott Card continues his fantastic tale of the Mages of Westil who live in exile on Earth in The Gate Thief, a novel of the Mither Mages.
Here on Earth, Danny North is still in high school, yet he holds in his heart and mind all the stolen outselves of thirteen centuries of gatemages. The Families still want to kill him if they can't control him…and they can't control him. He is far too powerful.
And on Westil, Wad is now nearly powerless-he lost everything to Danny in their struggle. Even if he can survive the revenge of his enemies, he still must somehow make peace with the Gatemage Daniel North.
For when Danny took that power from Loki, he also took the responsibility for the Great Gates. And when he comes face-to-face with the mages who call themselves Bel and Ishtoreth, he will come to understand just why Loki closed the gates all those centuries ago.
The Mithermages series
The Lost Gate
The Gate Thief
Gatefather
Ratings (11)
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Reader Stats (15):
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What can you read after
The Gate Thief?
About the Author:
ORSON SCOTT CARD is the author of the international bestsellers Shadow of the Giant, Shadow Puppets, Shadow of the Hegemon, and Ender's Shadow, and of the beloved classic of science fiction, Ender's Game, as well as the acclaimed fantasy series The Tales of Alvin Maker. He lives in Greensboro, North Carolina.
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