School for Psychics

The School for Psychics is the first book in a new series by K. C. Archer, due for release 03 April, 2018 from Simon and Schuster. The book covers the recruitment and first year of a group of young paranormals at a training college for psychics of all types from a pyrokinetic (Lucas, inevitably nicknamed 'Pyro') to animal medium (Jillian) and psychometrist (Jeremy).  The main character, Theodora/Teddy is an astral telepath who combines a bad attitude and trust issues with out of control psychic ability. 

The entire setup has a very X-Men/New Mutants vibe, but the author has successfully resisted much of the temptation to play off of the usual stereotypes.  There is, however, a lot of 'cool kids' vs. 'misfits' included as well as breaking curfew and sleeping around.  The sex (clean, and implied rather than graphic), drinking, etc, isn't as disturbing as it would be in another YA novel, since all of the principle players are over the age of consent, but the book certainly feels like a YA book.   All of the content is safe for work, so no need to avoid reading it on the bus commute or lunchtime.

The book is well written technically.  The dialogue flows well and the story moves along at a good clip.  The psychic dialogue was well handled (mostly in italics), and wasn't confusing to read.  I never had trouble figuring out what was going on.

Available in ebook, paperback, and audio formats, 368 pages, due out 3rd April.  I recently saw that the movie rights have already been optioned, so a film is likely at some point.

Three and a half stars, shadowy government agencies, good vs. evil mutants psychics, escapist fun.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher.