Is 'All Our Hidden Gifts' Based On A True Story?

'All Our Hidden Gifts' isn't based on a true story, but it cleverly weaves elements of real-life occult practices and tarot symbolism into its narrative. The book draws from historical mysticism, blending it with modern teen drama to create a compelling supernatural thriller. The author clearly did her research on divination and witchy traditions, making the fictional world feel grounded and authentic. While the characters and events are invented, the themes of self-discovery and hidden talents resonate deeply with real struggles many face. The magical system feels plausible because it's rooted in actual esoteric lore, just amplified for storytelling.

The tarot deck central to the plot mirrors traditional decks, but with artistic liberties taken to suit the story's needs. The portrayal of coven dynamics and psychic abilities reflects common tropes in witchcraft fiction, yet avoids clichés through fresh character dynamics. It's the kind of book that makes you wonder—could magic be real? That's the mark of great fantasy: feeling so tangible, you almost believe it.

As someone who devours both fiction and occult nonfiction, I can confirm 'All Our Hidden Gifts' is pure fantasy—but deliciously informed fantasy. The author sprinkles just enough authentic tarot terminology (like the Hanged Man's symbolism) to lend credibility while crafting an original mythology. The protagonist's journey from skeptic to spellcaster mirrors real coming-of-age transformations, just with more spectral interventions. What makes it feel 'true' is how accurately it captures the emotional weight of discovering one's identity, albeit through magical means. The sisterhood bonds and rivalries echo real teen dynamics, amped up with supernatural stakes.

Nope, not a true story! It's fiction with style. The book takes inspiration from actual tarot and witchcraft history but spins it into something new. Think less biography, more 'what if magic was real and messed up high school life?' The characters face problems anyone might—friendship drama, family issues—just with added creepy prophecies. The magic system's rules are consistent enough to feel believable, even if they're made up for the plot.

The magic in 'All Our Hidden Gifts' is fictional, but its emotional core is brutally real. The way characters grapple with power—both mystical and personal—reflects genuine adolescent turmoil. The tarot deck's eerie accuracy parallels how fortune-telling often hits uncomfortably close to home in reality. While no one's actually summoning spirits (as far as we know), the book taps into universal fears about destiny and the unknown. It's fantasy that understands truth isn't about facts, but about feelings.

Definitely not nonfiction, but it borrows from real occult aesthetics. The novel's strength lies in merging familiar tarot imagery with fresh twists—like the protagonist's evolving relationship with her cards. The supernatural elements serve as metaphors for real-world issues: social exclusion, self-doubt, and the terror of growing up. It's the kind of book that makes you side-eye your own 'hidden gifts' afterward.