One-line summary:

Tithe is a dark and thrilling urban fantasy novel that follows the story of Kaye, a teenage girl who discovers a hidden world of faeries and becomes entangled in a dangerous game of power and deceit.

The Unveiling of a Hidden World

In Tithe, author Holly Black introduces readers to a hidden world of faeries that exists alongside the human realm. The story revolves around Kaye Fierch, a sixteen-year-old girl who has always felt like an outsider. Kaye’s mother is a struggling musician, constantly on the move, and Kaye has spent her life traveling from place to place. When they return to Kaye’s childhood home in New Jersey, she reconnects with her childhood friend, Janet, and her life takes an unexpected turn.

During a late-night walk in the woods, Kaye witnesses a brutal attack on a stranger. As she rushes to help, she discovers that the victim is not human but a faerie knight named Roiben. This encounter leads Kaye to uncover her own connection to the faerie world and reveals her ability to see through their glamours. She soon finds herself caught in a dangerous game of power and deceit, where alliances are fragile, and betrayal lurks at every corner.

A Dark and Thrilling Adventure

As Kaye delves deeper into the world of faeries, she becomes entangled in a web of intrigue and danger. She discovers that there are different factions within the faerie realm, each with their own agendas and secrets. Kaye’s ability to see through glamours becomes a valuable asset, sought after by both the Seelie and Unseelie Courts. She must navigate this treacherous world, making alliances and enemies along the way.

Kaye’s journey takes her from the gritty streets of New Jersey to the enchanting faerie realm. She encounters a variety of mythical creatures, from mischievous brownies to fearsome goblins. Alongside her newfound faerie companions, Kaye must confront her own fears and insecurities, discovering her own strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

A Coming-of-Age Story with a Twist

At its core, Tithe is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the blurred lines between good and evil. Kaye’s journey forces her to confront her own inner demons and make difficult choices. She grapples with her own sense of belonging and learns to embrace her unique abilities.

Throughout the novel, Holly Black weaves a dark and atmospheric tale, filled with suspense and unexpected twists. The narrative is infused with elements of folklore and mythology, adding depth and richness to the story. Black’s vivid descriptions bring the faerie realm to life, immersing readers in a world that is both enchanting and dangerous.

Key Takeaways:

• Tithe explores the hidden world of faeries, blending urban fantasy with elements of folklore and mythology.
• The novel follows the journey of Kaye, a teenage girl who discovers her own connection to the faerie realm and becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of power and deceit.
• Themes of identity, self-discovery, and the blurred lines between good and evil are explored throughout the story.
• Holly Black’s atmospheric writing and vivid descriptions bring the faerie realm to life, creating a dark and thrilling reading experience.

“The real world is where the monsters are.”

In conclusion, Tithe is a captivating urban fantasy novel that takes readers on a dark and thrilling journey into the hidden world of faeries. With its engaging storyline, complex characters, and exploration of themes such as identity and self-discovery, this book is sure to leave readers eagerly turning the pages. Holly Black’s vivid descriptions and atmospheric writing style make the faerie realm come alive, immersing readers in a world that is both enchanting and dangerous.