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The Chosen #2
Hunted
*Updated to include the short story Homecoming.*
A mother desperately searches for her son...
Realizing she's capable of more than she ever suspected...
While resisting the pull of a mysterious man who offers more questions than answers...
Emma Thompson and Will Davenport may have escaped from the Vinco Potentia, but the secret political organization is far from their only problem. The trail to Jake is growing colder every day, but when Emma begins to display unusual powers of her own, Will wonders if her role in the prophecy is more significant than anyone ever believed.
To find out, they delve into Emma’s past while she struggles against a subconscious force – a force that takes the form of a man who knows too much, shares too little, and may be the biggest threat to her future yet.
A mother desperately searches for her son...
Realizing she's capable of more than she ever suspected...
While resisting the pull of a mysterious man who offers more questions than answers...
Emma Thompson and Will Davenport may have escaped from the Vinco Potentia, but the secret political organization is far from their only problem. The trail to Jake is growing colder every day, but when Emma begins to display unusual powers of her own, Will wonders if her role in the prophecy is more significant than anyone ever believed.
To find out, they delve into Emma’s past while she struggles against a subconscious force – a force that takes the form of a man who knows too much, shares too little, and may be the biggest threat to her future yet.
398 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2011
496 people are currently reading
1285 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 221 reviews
May 18, 2012
I had one or two issues with the first book in this trilogy (Chosen), but it was a non-stop action thriller which I was unable to put down, and I bought Hunted as I was dying to know what happened next.
Unfortunately, I'm left feeling pretty disappointed. This book has the same issues as the first (Some stylistic issues, and Jake is not remotely credible as a 5 year old, gifted or not) but also has a few of its own on top.
After the nonstop action of the first book, I found the first half of this book flat - the action didn't pick up until 60% of the way through. The main crux & explanation of the story doesn't happen until the final chapter, which made it feel rushed, and left me with a general "Huh?" feeling when I'd finished.
The addition of the love triangle really didn't work for me. Usually a love triangle adds a gripping dimension as I'm dying to see if the hero/ine choses who I want them to chose, but in this case it didn't make Emma seem torn or conflicted, she just came off as a tramp :/ Her character in this book is really quite unpleasant - she's manipulative and bitchy to a guy who has risked his life saving her time and time again and I couldn't bring myself to root for her at all.
I actually deleted this book when I was about 1/3 of the way through because I was having to force myself to continue, but in the end re-downloaded because I've never given up on a book before. I did finally end up gripped by the storyline in the final 1/4 of the book, but that wasn't enough to redeem it for me. Much as I'd like to know how the trilogy ends, I don't think I can bring myself to read the third.
Unfortunately, I'm left feeling pretty disappointed. This book has the same issues as the first (Some stylistic issues, and Jake is not remotely credible as a 5 year old, gifted or not) but also has a few of its own on top.
After the nonstop action of the first book, I found the first half of this book flat - the action didn't pick up until 60% of the way through. The main crux & explanation of the story doesn't happen until the final chapter, which made it feel rushed, and left me with a general "Huh?" feeling when I'd finished.
The addition of the love triangle really didn't work for me. Usually a love triangle adds a gripping dimension as I'm dying to see if the hero/ine choses who I want them to chose, but in this case it didn't make Emma seem torn or conflicted, she just came off as a tramp :/ Her character in this book is really quite unpleasant - she's manipulative and bitchy to a guy who has risked his life saving her time and time again and I couldn't bring myself to root for her at all.
I actually deleted this book when I was about 1/3 of the way through because I was having to force myself to continue, but in the end re-downloaded because I've never given up on a book before. I did finally end up gripped by the storyline in the final 1/4 of the book, but that wasn't enough to redeem it for me. Much as I'd like to know how the trilogy ends, I don't think I can bring myself to read the third.
February 17, 2015
This book was so frustrating in parts, between Emma And James I felt that Will was trapped in his own special hell. It definitely is an "I have got to see what happens next" book an keeps you pulled in! You know I had to jump into the next book as soon as I finished! What an ending! Good job Denise Grover Swank!
April 11, 2012
Upon finishing Chosen…I immediately went to the author asking for the next book in the series. I just couldn’t imagine reading just one book-I HAD to get answers and I had to have a resolution. She kindly sent me the final two books in the series for review. Thank you again Denise!
Once again, Ms. Swank delivers a fast-paced thrill ride which wastes no time drawing your attention and keeping it. The story continues right from where it left off, however, the dimensions change and new characters are introduced. There are major insights for the female main character which pull you through the whole book.
The main female character finds herself facing new paranormal strengths and weaknesses. Her drive and determination never waver, yet she is continually surprised by her strength and downplays it. She rises out of a past of deceit and evil and pulls herself up to begin again and renew her sense of love and faith in others. She finally begins to trust.
At the same time, the character dynamics shift tremendously leaving everyone confused through most of the book. New characters are introduced who you will love to hate, yet complexities are renewed and expanded. Some will help her and some will tear her resolve apart. At times the main female character feels a bit off her game…she seems to lose her focus and her drive in this book. While she always regains it, it’s tough to watch her struggle as she’s always been driven and had such focus on her mission. She stumbles a bit in this book, but I believe she had to in order to make sense of the events taking place. I am confident in the third book she will regain her footing and again become the heroine we’ve all grown so attached to and in tune with.
As the second installment, it provides answers to questions you’ve had from the beginning but also poses new questions and the promise of answers in the final installment. Because of all the new questions, you remain completely vested yet never bored or feeling the plot line has become stale. It’s a great middle book in a trilogy. It moves you along, evolves the characters while the story becomes more complex, but leaves you excited for the final installment. This book is meant to have the substance and integrity to move you through the series to its conclusion.
At the end of Hunted, I was stunned. I never saw it coming. I am now faced with so many new questions and emotions I can’t even describe it. The third installment will obviously take on a whole new persona as things can NOT continue the way they have even if you want them to. Each book in the trilogy seems to have it’s own persona. I’ve never encountered that before. They each have their own purpose that while part of the “big picture”, has a life of its own right to the end.
Another smash hit by Denise Grover Swank!
Once again, Ms. Swank delivers a fast-paced thrill ride which wastes no time drawing your attention and keeping it. The story continues right from where it left off, however, the dimensions change and new characters are introduced. There are major insights for the female main character which pull you through the whole book.
The main female character finds herself facing new paranormal strengths and weaknesses. Her drive and determination never waver, yet she is continually surprised by her strength and downplays it. She rises out of a past of deceit and evil and pulls herself up to begin again and renew her sense of love and faith in others. She finally begins to trust.
At the same time, the character dynamics shift tremendously leaving everyone confused through most of the book. New characters are introduced who you will love to hate, yet complexities are renewed and expanded. Some will help her and some will tear her resolve apart. At times the main female character feels a bit off her game…she seems to lose her focus and her drive in this book. While she always regains it, it’s tough to watch her struggle as she’s always been driven and had such focus on her mission. She stumbles a bit in this book, but I believe she had to in order to make sense of the events taking place. I am confident in the third book she will regain her footing and again become the heroine we’ve all grown so attached to and in tune with.
As the second installment, it provides answers to questions you’ve had from the beginning but also poses new questions and the promise of answers in the final installment. Because of all the new questions, you remain completely vested yet never bored or feeling the plot line has become stale. It’s a great middle book in a trilogy. It moves you along, evolves the characters while the story becomes more complex, but leaves you excited for the final installment. This book is meant to have the substance and integrity to move you through the series to its conclusion.
At the end of Hunted, I was stunned. I never saw it coming. I am now faced with so many new questions and emotions I can’t even describe it. The third installment will obviously take on a whole new persona as things can NOT continue the way they have even if you want them to. Each book in the trilogy seems to have it’s own persona. I’ve never encountered that before. They each have their own purpose that while part of the “big picture”, has a life of its own right to the end.
Another smash hit by Denise Grover Swank!
March 30, 2012
The second installment in Denise Grover Swank's series has left more questions than answers. I felt like I had just experienced the final episode of "LOST" all over again! I'm not sure what it was about it, but something made it seem forced. Nothing seemed to flow as well this time around.
In addition to Emma and Will's voice, Jake is added as a narrative point of view. It seemed odd at first, but toward the end of the book these three voices seemed to mesh better. But again, it was hard to picture Jake as a 5 year old.
A few new characters were added to fill out the tale. Raphael, a mysterious man, that keeps popping up and saving Emma. Every time he comes around, Emma can't help but be attracted to him. It sets up for a very predictable cycle. Raphael shows up, Emma is pulled to him, Raphael makes a comment about being together and leaves, Emma is sad and disgusted with herself for mentally cheating on Will. It happens a few different times in the book and even by the 2nd time, it's just old.
Another new character comes in the form of James, Will's best friend, who the couple seek out for help in their flight from the organizations hunting them down. James is immediately a despicable character. Foul mouthed, unreasonable, and just plain annoying. Every time he opened his mouth, he was cursing out Will or making wise-ass comments to Emma. This character just never felt right.
The story itself twists and turns with revelations about Emma's past and her coming into a power of her own. Emma is not just a mother with this special child. Now she's special too. A cliff-hanger of an ending really spells out what the point of the story is and is going to be. And even that seemed odd. I was left looking at my Kindle and thinking... "HUH?!?!"
Overall I would only recommend this book to someone who's read the first and enjoyed it. This one was only half as enjoyable as the first. Hoping that the 3rd book redeems the series, or I may just cut my losses on it.
In addition to Emma and Will's voice, Jake is added as a narrative point of view. It seemed odd at first, but toward the end of the book these three voices seemed to mesh better. But again, it was hard to picture Jake as a 5 year old.
A few new characters were added to fill out the tale. Raphael, a mysterious man, that keeps popping up and saving Emma. Every time he comes around, Emma can't help but be attracted to him. It sets up for a very predictable cycle. Raphael shows up, Emma is pulled to him, Raphael makes a comment about being together and leaves, Emma is sad and disgusted with herself for mentally cheating on Will. It happens a few different times in the book and even by the 2nd time, it's just old.
Another new character comes in the form of James, Will's best friend, who the couple seek out for help in their flight from the organizations hunting them down. James is immediately a despicable character. Foul mouthed, unreasonable, and just plain annoying. Every time he opened his mouth, he was cursing out Will or making wise-ass comments to Emma. This character just never felt right.
The story itself twists and turns with revelations about Emma's past and her coming into a power of her own. Emma is not just a mother with this special child. Now she's special too. A cliff-hanger of an ending really spells out what the point of the story is and is going to be. And even that seemed odd. I was left looking at my Kindle and thinking... "HUH?!?!"
Overall I would only recommend this book to someone who's read the first and enjoyed it. This one was only half as enjoyable as the first. Hoping that the 3rd book redeems the series, or I may just cut my losses on it.
Read
July 19, 2023Hunted is an amazing sequel...it had just as much suspense and emotional connections between characters as Chosen. (I was especially touched by Emma and Jake's "connection.") The pace remains fast (much like Emma's mad driving skills) and you are left breathless and wanting more. The story keeps unfolding and I can't imagine what will happen next. I am anxiously awaiting the 3rd book in the series!
December 13, 2012
What an awesome ending! This started off a little slow and I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy it as much as the first but the ending was nuts!! I have to know what happens...on to book #3.
FYI...Austin books club pals...this series has a super romance but nothing too wild and it's a just a bit more focused on the action vs the "steam".
FYI...Austin books club pals...this series has a super romance but nothing too wild and it's a just a bit more focused on the action vs the "steam".
September 29, 2011
Denise -- I think you have a true winner on your hands -- and thank you for allowing me to be a part of it! Now. Get cranking on book 3 -- that cliff hanger was Hunger Games worthy!!!
January 8, 2021
In Hunted the second book in the Chosen Series, Emma Thompson and Will Davenport are on the run as they search for her son Jake. Will asked his childhood friend and fellow ex-Marine for help as they track Jake to Montana.
The hunt for them move quickly from one exciting encounter to another as Emma learns she has powers and how to use them. This part of the story end in a cliffhanger with Emma finding out that she is part of a group of beings that are in a struggle for control. Hunted is full of excitement, moves quickly, has danger with betrayal and ends with Will and Emma separated as she struggles to get her son and Will back too.
The hunt for them move quickly from one exciting encounter to another as Emma learns she has powers and how to use them. This part of the story end in a cliffhanger with Emma finding out that she is part of a group of beings that are in a struggle for control. Hunted is full of excitement, moves quickly, has danger with betrayal and ends with Will and Emma separated as she struggles to get her son and Will back too.
June 28, 2019
Fantastic
Great continuation of Emma’s story can’t wait to read the next part of Emma’s story !! So many twists and turns just has you on the end of your seat
Great continuation of Emma’s story can’t wait to read the next part of Emma’s story !! So many twists and turns just has you on the end of your seat
July 5, 2019
Hunted - the second book in the Chosen series was fantastic! I love the ex-marine turned bad-boy Will and though at times it was a little silly how much this "spell" or "curse" forced him to protect Emma I still fell for it. I love the way Will thinks, takes action, and supports Emma. In this book, Emma begins to see glimpses of her super-natural powers. The last chapters just opened the whole book up for me. I would read and be thinking "oh wow... no way... that makes sense... who IS this guy..." Just page turning, wonderful. The bonus at the end of the book "Homecoming" forms Will's POV when he comes home from Iraq is really great and explains so much about his character and how he got into his job finding Emma.
December 13, 2011
Most reviews I have read start with the blurb off the back cover. I don't think I ever have so for my first time I'm going to share the blurb from Goodreads and then tell you what a roller coaster ride this author takes you on with these characters. The blurb from Goodreads:
Emma Thompson and Will Davenport may have escaped from the Vinco Potentia, but the secret political organization is far from their only problem. The trail to Jake is growing colder every day, but when Emma begins to display unusual powers of her own, Will wonders if her role in the prophecy is more significant than anyone ever believed.
To find out, they delve into Emma’s past while she struggles against a subconscious force – a force that takes the form of a man who knows too much, shares too little, and may be the biggest threat to her future yet.
Hunted is the second book in The Chosen Series. Sitting down, opening this book and reading that first page was like connecting with a friend I had not been around in a while. I was eager to read where Will and Emma were and where they were headed. And boy were they headed somewhere.
I fell in love with all three of the main characters in Chosen. I described them as onions, every character had so many layers to them and each page was like peeling a layer off. In Hunted they did not lose their layers. These characters are so well developed. Emma stays true to character, snarky and stubborn. She is full of love for her son and her wall is still in place guarding them both. However, she is changing, which a great character does. Her wall is weakening and part of that is due to Will and part to the force that takes the form of a man. Yep, a wicked love triangle. One you keep guessing at until the end. That's all I'm saying about that you'll have to read it and figure it out that way. Trust me you'll want to. Will, his character carries his traits with him, but he adds a new trait. One that jeopardizes every move they make. The way Ms. Swank writes her characters brings them to life. I can hear the sarcasm coming from Emma and even Will at times. Bur from Will I hear the pride that comes through her writing and the love, unconditional love.
I don't want to say to much about Jake. Everything he goes through in this book is part of the big picture and I don't want to ruin that. I am going to say, he's just as developed as the other characters. And touched my heart just the same.
There are new characters, that add to this story and keep your attention. No, they didn't still my love for Emma and Will, but they definitely had my attention. James is a childhood friend of Will's that adds to the angst of the book. Brandy was one person Emma did not want to go to. After making her visit Brandy, Will figured out why she didn't want to go to her. There are a few more that add so much to the story, but I don't want to ruin anything.
As I said in this second book of the series there is just as many surprises, twists and emotional curves as the first book. My heart squeezed when I read this line: "You've never seen her drive."
I laughed out loud reading this line: "Of course, James repelled down a forty-foot wall. Of course, I know how to fly a plane. No, Will, these are not of course situations for me."
And then I cried when I read this line: "You've helped me enough. No one can help me now."
There were several instances where I was either laughing or crying at this book and my kids were looking at my oddly.
I did my best to make this book last as long as I could with out just not reading it. I am (as patiently as I can) waiting for the third book in The Chose Series Sacrifice.
Also check out Denise Grover Swank's other books, while you wait for Sacrifice.
Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes A Rose Gardner Mystery (check out my review, I gave it Five-Stars)
Here The first book in her YA Series The Otherside (Posting review shortly. Also a Five-Star read)
Emma Thompson and Will Davenport may have escaped from the Vinco Potentia, but the secret political organization is far from their only problem. The trail to Jake is growing colder every day, but when Emma begins to display unusual powers of her own, Will wonders if her role in the prophecy is more significant than anyone ever believed.
To find out, they delve into Emma’s past while she struggles against a subconscious force – a force that takes the form of a man who knows too much, shares too little, and may be the biggest threat to her future yet.
Hunted is the second book in The Chosen Series. Sitting down, opening this book and reading that first page was like connecting with a friend I had not been around in a while. I was eager to read where Will and Emma were and where they were headed. And boy were they headed somewhere.
I fell in love with all three of the main characters in Chosen. I described them as onions, every character had so many layers to them and each page was like peeling a layer off. In Hunted they did not lose their layers. These characters are so well developed. Emma stays true to character, snarky and stubborn. She is full of love for her son and her wall is still in place guarding them both. However, she is changing, which a great character does. Her wall is weakening and part of that is due to Will and part to the force that takes the form of a man. Yep, a wicked love triangle. One you keep guessing at until the end. That's all I'm saying about that you'll have to read it and figure it out that way. Trust me you'll want to. Will, his character carries his traits with him, but he adds a new trait. One that jeopardizes every move they make. The way Ms. Swank writes her characters brings them to life. I can hear the sarcasm coming from Emma and even Will at times. Bur from Will I hear the pride that comes through her writing and the love, unconditional love.
I don't want to say to much about Jake. Everything he goes through in this book is part of the big picture and I don't want to ruin that. I am going to say, he's just as developed as the other characters. And touched my heart just the same.
There are new characters, that add to this story and keep your attention. No, they didn't still my love for Emma and Will, but they definitely had my attention. James is a childhood friend of Will's that adds to the angst of the book. Brandy was one person Emma did not want to go to. After making her visit Brandy, Will figured out why she didn't want to go to her. There are a few more that add so much to the story, but I don't want to ruin anything.
As I said in this second book of the series there is just as many surprises, twists and emotional curves as the first book. My heart squeezed when I read this line: "You've never seen her drive."
I laughed out loud reading this line: "Of course, James repelled down a forty-foot wall. Of course, I know how to fly a plane. No, Will, these are not of course situations for me."
And then I cried when I read this line: "You've helped me enough. No one can help me now."
There were several instances where I was either laughing or crying at this book and my kids were looking at my oddly.
I did my best to make this book last as long as I could with out just not reading it. I am (as patiently as I can) waiting for the third book in The Chose Series Sacrifice.
Also check out Denise Grover Swank's other books, while you wait for Sacrifice.
Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes A Rose Gardner Mystery (check out my review, I gave it Five-Stars)
Here The first book in her YA Series The Otherside (Posting review shortly. Also a Five-Star read)
February 1, 2012
Celeste’s review:
Summary: Wow. Nail. Biter. What a ride, but it was great! This book picked up right where Chosen left off. Emma and Will have just escaped the compound where they were being held captive. They are now on the run and desperate to find Emma’s son, Jake, who had been kidnapped by different people. At the same time they hope to find some answers as to why anyone would want Jake or Emma in the first place….all they want is to live in peace. Of course, the “bad men” are still after Emma, so rescuing Jake is not that simple. And…more than once a gorgeous, totally sexy stranger mysteriously appears and helps her out. Who is he, or more importantly what is he? Emma has no idea, but she knows that she has a pull towards him that she can’t resist or make sense of. (awww yes, I was so intrigued!)
Thriller with a great dose of paranormal: This novel is totally action packed but slowly started to lean heavily towards the paranormal as it went along. Emma started to come into her powers and she had to learn how to use and control her magic. I loved how this wasn’t just a thriller, (the magic was woven in so nicely) and I suspect the 3rd book in the series will be even more interesting in that department. Some things tied up nicely by the end, but the story didn’t always go as I expected and there’s still a lot left to sort out. I ended up with more questions!
The romance: I have to talk about this unexpected love triangle. I am usually never, ever, ever torn. But gah, this is BAD! Will is totally hot, sexy and tough, and did I mention sexy? I didn’t even expect another love interest to show up and pull me in because Will is that good. Emma has had such a hard life, never catching a break and now things have changed so much for her, although she is scared to believe it. I am going to be wringing my hands with the next book.
Up next: I loved this story and am so looking forward to the 3rd book, Sacrifice, which should come out in March.
Summary: Wow. Nail. Biter. What a ride, but it was great! This book picked up right where Chosen left off. Emma and Will have just escaped the compound where they were being held captive. They are now on the run and desperate to find Emma’s son, Jake, who had been kidnapped by different people. At the same time they hope to find some answers as to why anyone would want Jake or Emma in the first place….all they want is to live in peace. Of course, the “bad men” are still after Emma, so rescuing Jake is not that simple. And…more than once a gorgeous, totally sexy stranger mysteriously appears and helps her out. Who is he, or more importantly what is he? Emma has no idea, but she knows that she has a pull towards him that she can’t resist or make sense of. (awww yes, I was so intrigued!)
Thriller with a great dose of paranormal: This novel is totally action packed but slowly started to lean heavily towards the paranormal as it went along. Emma started to come into her powers and she had to learn how to use and control her magic. I loved how this wasn’t just a thriller, (the magic was woven in so nicely) and I suspect the 3rd book in the series will be even more interesting in that department. Some things tied up nicely by the end, but the story didn’t always go as I expected and there’s still a lot left to sort out. I ended up with more questions!
The romance: I have to talk about this unexpected love triangle. I am usually never, ever, ever torn. But gah, this is BAD! Will is totally hot, sexy and tough, and did I mention sexy? I didn’t even expect another love interest to show up and pull me in because Will is that good. Emma has had such a hard life, never catching a break and now things have changed so much for her, although she is scared to believe it. I am going to be wringing my hands with the next book.
Up next: I loved this story and am so looking forward to the 3rd book, Sacrifice, which should come out in March.
January 27, 2013
This book picks up with Emma and Will after their escape.
At first it seemed like it would be as good as the first book (although I had some issues with the first one, I still enjoyed it). This one; however, felt as though the author were just trying to give Emma every advantage at her disposal while giving her rationale for being a bitchy, manipulative, irritating character. It felt like the major twink of twinks giving her sudden powers. Sure she struggled to learn how to control them and sure, the whole thing with Will at the end certainly threw a wrench in Emma's life but overall, I really just didn't like the "Oh, they're struggling. Jake's gone so let's give EMMA super powers now :D" kind of feeling that I got from this.
And Raphael. I didn't see a reason for him to have such a complete draw over Emma. I am appreciative that she explained the freaky connection thing going on there but I still have no taste for how Emma just loses herself with him. I mean it's stated numerous times - it's not Raphael's Emma so I don't see a rational explanation for why she's still going all gaga swoon for him. It's ridiculous. I mean she goes from being someone who can be impulsive, strong, and bitchy and resistant (she even says it herself - she never would have allowed Will to get away with what Raphael does) to a completely horny mess in seconds. I hated it.
This book also felt very slow compared to the first book. The characters had lost all of their allure (although I never really did like Jake. Him saying "Mommy" does not negate the fact that he is nothing remotely like a 5 year old). I can't relate to Emma in the slightest. Will just feels like a doormat. James... James is annoying and stupid and rude but I kinda liked him for not putting Emma on a pedestal just because Will likes her. The book's action is severely lacking and the ending is rushed. I'm hoping that the next book can revive some of my initial excitement or I won't bother reading the fourth. :|
At first it seemed like it would be as good as the first book (although I had some issues with the first one, I still enjoyed it). This one; however, felt as though the author were just trying to give Emma every advantage at her disposal while giving her rationale for being a bitchy, manipulative, irritating character. It felt like the major twink of twinks giving her sudden powers. Sure she struggled to learn how to control them and sure, the whole thing with Will at the end certainly threw a wrench in Emma's life but overall, I really just didn't like the "Oh, they're struggling. Jake's gone so let's give EMMA super powers now :D" kind of feeling that I got from this.
And Raphael. I didn't see a reason for him to have such a complete draw over Emma. I am appreciative that she explained the freaky connection thing going on there but I still have no taste for how Emma just loses herself with him. I mean it's stated numerous times - it's not Raphael's Emma so I don't see a rational explanation for why she's still going all gaga swoon for him. It's ridiculous. I mean she goes from being someone who can be impulsive, strong, and bitchy and resistant (she even says it herself - she never would have allowed Will to get away with what Raphael does) to a completely horny mess in seconds. I hated it.
This book also felt very slow compared to the first book. The characters had lost all of their allure (although I never really did like Jake. Him saying "Mommy" does not negate the fact that he is nothing remotely like a 5 year old). I can't relate to Emma in the slightest. Will just feels like a doormat. James... James is annoying and stupid and rude but I kinda liked him for not putting Emma on a pedestal just because Will likes her. The book's action is severely lacking and the ending is rushed. I'm hoping that the next book can revive some of my initial excitement or I won't bother reading the fourth. :|
December 1, 2011
Today's review is on Hunted by Denise Grover Swank
Hunted is the second book in Swank's The Chosen series. This continuing adventure had me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next.
Now that Emma and Will have escaped from the compound of the Vinco Potentia they are once again on the run. Between trying to stay one step ahead of them and the other group that wants Emma dead, the danger's become more heated in more ways than one. Emma begins to have other powers of her own besides the ability to puke when "the bad men" are near.
In an attempt to find out more about why Emma is "special", Will and Emma travel back to her home town and meet Emma's mother and grandmother. Though they do not make much headway with her mother, grandma has the necklace that Aiden; her father, gave her motherb before he disappeared from their lives.
When Will is attacked and beaten badly Emma turns to Raphael for help. But he too has secrets of his own that he is not willing to tell her and pop's up in her dreams. Whenever he touches her she can't help but to be pulled further away from Will.
Though she knows that Will loves her mark or none, she cannot bring herself to return those three little words back to him. After all that she has gone through neither Will nor I can blame her.
It's only at the end of Hunted, when they are the closest to finding Jake that Emma is able to voice her true feelings. When she finds the truth about what has been going on and who has been the controlling force. When she must choose the winner and loose something she loves.
Hunted is another home run book by Swank if I have ever saw one. It maintains the adventure, suspense, action, and emotional drama that many second installment books lack. I just can't wait for the next book where hopefully everything works out the way I want it to.
4 of 5 stars
Hunted is the second book in Swank's The Chosen series. This continuing adventure had me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next.
Now that Emma and Will have escaped from the compound of the Vinco Potentia they are once again on the run. Between trying to stay one step ahead of them and the other group that wants Emma dead, the danger's become more heated in more ways than one. Emma begins to have other powers of her own besides the ability to puke when "the bad men" are near.
In an attempt to find out more about why Emma is "special", Will and Emma travel back to her home town and meet Emma's mother and grandmother. Though they do not make much headway with her mother, grandma has the necklace that Aiden; her father, gave her motherb before he disappeared from their lives.
When Will is attacked and beaten badly Emma turns to Raphael for help. But he too has secrets of his own that he is not willing to tell her and pop's up in her dreams. Whenever he touches her she can't help but to be pulled further away from Will.
Though she knows that Will loves her mark or none, she cannot bring herself to return those three little words back to him. After all that she has gone through neither Will nor I can blame her.
It's only at the end of Hunted, when they are the closest to finding Jake that Emma is able to voice her true feelings. When she finds the truth about what has been going on and who has been the controlling force. When she must choose the winner and loose something she loves.
Hunted is another home run book by Swank if I have ever saw one. It maintains the adventure, suspense, action, and emotional drama that many second installment books lack. I just can't wait for the next book where hopefully everything works out the way I want it to.
4 of 5 stars
November 29, 2011
It's always a nerve wracking thing, to pick up a sequel. Will it let you down? Will it be mostly filler? Will ti take the characters to places you won't like, or that make you unhappy with the direction they're headed?
In HUNTED's case, it's none of the above. The book has substance, and instead of leaving us in the dark as we head toward a final book in a series, it answers plenty of the questions left unanswered by CHOSEN. Of course, plenty more questions pop up in their wake, but they propel us forward on this wild ride (what other kind of ride could it be, with Emma and Will at the wheel?).
There are parts of this book that are tough for readers like me, who love and are rooting for Will, but the emotion issues Emma is dealing with are real and fill out her character more than ever. Even though I'm on Team Will, I'm also on Team Emma figuring out that everyone she loves isn't going to leave her. One of the best things about this series is that even though there is this huge, overarching, dangerous storyline that affects the whole world, it's also a small story about a woman who's never caught a break, and how she figures out how to bury the past and move forward without letting it affect any happiness she might have in the future.
I'm eagerly awaiting the rest of my answers in the next installment.
In HUNTED's case, it's none of the above. The book has substance, and instead of leaving us in the dark as we head toward a final book in a series, it answers plenty of the questions left unanswered by CHOSEN. Of course, plenty more questions pop up in their wake, but they propel us forward on this wild ride (what other kind of ride could it be, with Emma and Will at the wheel?).
There are parts of this book that are tough for readers like me, who love and are rooting for Will, but the emotion issues Emma is dealing with are real and fill out her character more than ever. Even though I'm on Team Will, I'm also on Team Emma figuring out that everyone she loves isn't going to leave her. One of the best things about this series is that even though there is this huge, overarching, dangerous storyline that affects the whole world, it's also a small story about a woman who's never caught a break, and how she figures out how to bury the past and move forward without letting it affect any happiness she might have in the future.
I'm eagerly awaiting the rest of my answers in the next installment.
November 28, 2011
I was captivated by Swank's writing with her Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes and so was moved to give this series a try, though paranormal is not my usual genre. To say I was not disappointed is a terrible understatement. I was absolutely hooked by the first (Chosen) and waited rather impatiently for the second, Hunted. This story is fast-paced and the characters are absolutely wonderful. The way Swank reveals aspects of the mystery and story are masterful and I lost more than a little sleep reading "just one more chapter" or "just one more page." I can't wait to see how the series develops and what Swank has in store for these characters and for the readers. I am a devoted fan now and definitely recommend anything she writes, even if, like me, this isn't your usual genre. So, what are you waiting for? Buy it already!
April 10, 2019
"Hunted" is a great sequel to "Chosen." It's still fast-paced, packed with action, drama, suspense, and romance. The ending was quite surprising as I didn't really see it coming. The only thing that bugged me was Emma; the way she treated Will and the way she flip-flopped when it came to her feelings about him. It felt as though she only considered his feelings when it suited her.
At one point I wanted to tell her to shut up! Will is doing his best to fly a small plane at night in a storm and she's throwing question after question at him. Shut up! Let the guy concentrate on flying the plane. - I know, it's fiction, but still, talk about irritating.
At one point I wanted to tell her to shut up! Will is doing his best to fly a small plane at night in a storm and she's throwing question after question at him. Shut up! Let the guy concentrate on flying the plane. - I know, it's fiction, but still, talk about irritating.
December 17, 2011
This book is a satisfying sequel to an amazing first book! Not did the storyline evolve, but so did the characters- in their personalities, relationships, etc. I didn't think I would come to like the characters any more than I had in the first book, but I did! I truly consider each of them to be a close friend. I look forward to the last book in this series, "Sacrifice", to see what happens to the characters I love so much and how the paranormal element evolves.
I also recommend Chosen, Here, and Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes by Denise Grover Swank.
I also recommend Chosen, Here, and Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes by Denise Grover Swank.
April 5, 2012
I absolutely loved Chosen, so I was excited to see how the story continued in Hunted, and I wasn't disappointed!
The thrill ride of action and emotions continued in this book, leaving me breathless and wanting more in the end. I must admit, I would've been very agitated (in a good way!) if I didn't have Sacrifice ready to read as soon as I finished this as it leaves on a -huge- cliffhanger!
I loved Will and Emma and especially loved getting Jake's point of view.
I can't (well, couldn't) wait to see where this story goes!!! :o)
The thrill ride of action and emotions continued in this book, leaving me breathless and wanting more in the end. I must admit, I would've been very agitated (in a good way!) if I didn't have Sacrifice ready to read as soon as I finished this as it leaves on a -huge- cliffhanger!
I loved Will and Emma and especially loved getting Jake's point of view.
I can't (well, couldn't) wait to see where this story goes!!! :o)
August 7, 2014
There was no way that I couldn't keep going with this series. There was so much I needed to know.
Emma and Will are back! Yay, I love this couple. She is not someone to mess with and Will is just gorgeous! He is every girls hero.
The main story though is exciting and enticing, keeps you on your toes guessing what is next.
I am kicking myself I didn't read this series earlier, but the best part is, I don't have to wait for the next book. Its waiting for me to start now.
Do yourself a favour and get started too.
Emma and Will are back! Yay, I love this couple. She is not someone to mess with and Will is just gorgeous! He is every girls hero.
The main story though is exciting and enticing, keeps you on your toes guessing what is next.
I am kicking myself I didn't read this series earlier, but the best part is, I don't have to wait for the next book. Its waiting for me to start now.
Do yourself a favour and get started too.
August 6, 2012
Denise Grover Swank is quickly becoming a favorite with me! Here's another page-turner that kept me up 'til 1:30am and demanded I purchase Sacrifice immediately. Must Read!!!!
March 11, 2019
(2.50 Stars)
I really do enjoy the writing of Denise Grover Swank and was completely awed by "Chosen" the first story in this series. However, if I am totally honest with myself, "Hunted" wasn't as good as the first book because the story line became a little convoluted and over the top.
Initially, our story evolves around Will and Emma searching for her kidnapped son, Jake. Two factions have decided that one wants Jake and the other wants Emma. Will is her protector and lover willing to do anything for her. Unfortunately, in "Hunted" we are introduced to too many new characters that were not as well developed as the ones in the first read. We meet Raphael, Alex, Senator Warren, James, and Emma's father just to name a few. Each has there own interests in Jake and Emma and no one seems to shine like a true protagonist.
There is plenty of action, running around and confrontations but very little contact between Jake, Emma and Will. Then, in the end something happens to Will that sends the whole thing in a tail spin. While there is a lot going on there wasn't much glue holding the whole thing together. Ms. Swank missed the opportunity to solidify the readers continue interest by infusing too many battles and too many bad guys. I will admit that I will be going on to finish the series but now I am wary of what started out with such great promise. Hopefully, book three will set things back on track.
I really do enjoy the writing of Denise Grover Swank and was completely awed by "Chosen" the first story in this series. However, if I am totally honest with myself, "Hunted" wasn't as good as the first book because the story line became a little convoluted and over the top.
Initially, our story evolves around Will and Emma searching for her kidnapped son, Jake. Two factions have decided that one wants Jake and the other wants Emma. Will is her protector and lover willing to do anything for her. Unfortunately, in "Hunted" we are introduced to too many new characters that were not as well developed as the ones in the first read. We meet Raphael, Alex, Senator Warren, James, and Emma's father just to name a few. Each has there own interests in Jake and Emma and no one seems to shine like a true protagonist.
There is plenty of action, running around and confrontations but very little contact between Jake, Emma and Will. Then, in the end something happens to Will that sends the whole thing in a tail spin. While there is a lot going on there wasn't much glue holding the whole thing together. Ms. Swank missed the opportunity to solidify the readers continue interest by infusing too many battles and too many bad guys. I will admit that I will be going on to finish the series but now I am wary of what started out with such great promise. Hopefully, book three will set things back on track.
November 20, 2020
I have read books by D G Swank before and I love her, so I was very excited to read Chosen.
This book did not disappoint. It follows the story of Emma and her son Jake who live a life on the run from mysterious armed men who are hunting to kill, and appear to get help from a stranger, Will.
This book is supernatural/fantasy, but full of a mother's love for her son. A mother who will do anything to protect him, even giving up her old life to live in hotels from a suitcase. When I chose this book, it was based on the title alone, for my A to Z challenge, so I didn't know what it was going to be about in advance. As I was reading through, I thought that the child, Jake, was the Chosen one, since he is the one with supernatural powers, but it turned out not to be the case.
I couldn't put this book down. It is very well written and kept me wanting more. So much so, that I had to find out what happened next, and next, and next. Not only that, the kindle books have been updated to contain short stories, that give further information about each of the characters, so I had to read those too: Chosen, (short story Emergence), Hunted, (short story Homecoming), Sacrifice, (short story Middle Ground), and Redemption.
Very good, I highly recommend this series.
This book did not disappoint. It follows the story of Emma and her son Jake who live a life on the run from mysterious armed men who are hunting to kill, and appear to get help from a stranger, Will.
This book is supernatural/fantasy, but full of a mother's love for her son. A mother who will do anything to protect him, even giving up her old life to live in hotels from a suitcase. When I chose this book, it was based on the title alone, for my A to Z challenge, so I didn't know what it was going to be about in advance. As I was reading through, I thought that the child, Jake, was the Chosen one, since he is the one with supernatural powers, but it turned out not to be the case.
I couldn't put this book down. It is very well written and kept me wanting more. So much so, that I had to find out what happened next, and next, and next. Not only that, the kindle books have been updated to contain short stories, that give further information about each of the characters, so I had to read those too: Chosen, (short story Emergence), Hunted, (short story Homecoming), Sacrifice, (short story Middle Ground), and Redemption.
Very good, I highly recommend this series.
November 14, 2017
Short review. Action packed second installment. I really struggle with this book not because it wasn't good but because of some of things that went down that had me nearly not finishing book nor the series. I think that love triangle between Will, Emma and Raphael did more harm than good to Emma's character. Not only does it weaken her character but it also makes her unlikable to the point that I started to agree with Will's friend James about dumping her, the saving grace for Emma is her love for her son Jake who she is determined to find him. Will continues to be my favorite character, he never wavers in his loyalty to Emma and wanting to help her find her son and get answers about why this is happening to them. I know there is more to Will's character than what we are being told and can't wait to find out what is. There are more twists and turns in this book that will have you saying What the f--- by the time that it ends.
July 19, 2019
Wow! I say it about every book Denise Grover Swank writes, but wow. This was the second book in the Chosen series, which is listed as "Adult Urban Fantasy". Not my normal genre, but this author has me crossing the lines.
I love the depth that DGS continues to give these characters in the second installation. Book one I mentioned falling in love with Will. This book actually gave a lot more background on him, which I was quite thankful for.
Few authors can commit to such detail in their work, but let me tell you, this book included small details from the last book and little tidbits that I'm sure I'm going to hear more about later. She really makes you think! Can't wait to read the next book! Thank goodness for Kindle Unlimited, right?
I love the depth that DGS continues to give these characters in the second installation. Book one I mentioned falling in love with Will. This book actually gave a lot more background on him, which I was quite thankful for.
Few authors can commit to such detail in their work, but let me tell you, this book included small details from the last book and little tidbits that I'm sure I'm going to hear more about later. She really makes you think! Can't wait to read the next book! Thank goodness for Kindle Unlimited, right?
July 10, 2018
Immediately after finishing the first book in this series I started this one. I think I enjoyed this one a little more than the first since I had time to warm up to the paranormal stuff and create a bond with Emma, Will and Jake. I started to enjoy Jake's character more in this book, as he felt more like a little boy to me. There were definitely times in this book that I wanted to punch Emma, but all of the events throughout the book helped carry along the story. I wanted to cry at the end after what happened with Will and was terrified to go on to book number 3. What an ending! DGS sure knows how to do a cliffhanger!
June 1, 2017
I enjoyed this book as much as the first one. I hate predictable books and none of Denise Grover Swank's books is predictable. This wasn't an exception. Another incredible nail biter book keeping me awake almost all night being unable to put it down. Action, thrill, supernatural packed with incredible amazing characters and they seem so real you just live with them all the way trough shocking, terrible and heartbreaking experiences.
The good thing is I don't have to wait for next book, it's only a click away in my kindle, so I'm starting it now!
The good thing is I don't have to wait for next book, it's only a click away in my kindle, so I'm starting it now!
April 28, 2018
Great series!! The new depth to this story line is amazing. I was already interested in the continuation of this story from the first book but now that a new element has come into play, I am beyond excited to see where the story goes next. I like how there were similar situations that occurred in the first book but they were also very different and not just a repeat of the first book. I also love seeing Emma adjust to everything that is thrown at her and I know she will just become stronger in the next book, both mentally and in other ways.
May 30, 2018
The Hunted was an excellent second addition to the Chosen series. I was not disappointed with the action, suspense, and mystery. The ending left me excited then heartbroken and ready for more. Emma and Will are fantastic characters. They both have depth and emotion. They make bad decisions and have trust issues which make them more realistic.
The Homecoming (the short story at the end of this book) offered great insight into Will and his backstory. I am now able to understand so much about Will and his choices.
The Homecoming (the short story at the end of this book) offered great insight into Will and his backstory. I am now able to understand so much about Will and his choices.
July 20, 2018
A Game Changer
Hunted is a very appropriate tittle for the second installment of the Chosen series. This a a very fast paced book that sound and twists and makes you constantly guess at what is going on and why.
Emma is coming into her powers and trying to navigate this new world she has found herself in. Emma has so many questions and the answers are few.
Will is being pushed to his limits with trying to keep Emma safe, trying to stay ahead of the two groups after them all the while trying to unravel the prophesy.
Hunted is a very appropriate tittle for the second installment of the Chosen series. This a a very fast paced book that sound and twists and makes you constantly guess at what is going on and why.
Emma is coming into her powers and trying to navigate this new world she has found herself in. Emma has so many questions and the answers are few.
Will is being pushed to his limits with trying to keep Emma safe, trying to stay ahead of the two groups after them all the while trying to unravel the prophesy.
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