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Hunted
Chandra Grey had walked through life believing that she was ordinary, until a chance meeting with a man calling himself a summoner opened her eyes to another world of possibilities.
The summoner's life is one of secrecy, danger, and eternal conflict. Though powerful, the summoners have been forced into hiding; pursued tirelessly for millennia by the group calling themselves hunters, those sworn to destroy the Order of summoners and the demons they command.
The allure of the summoner's power cannot be resisted, and Chandra finds herself drawn into the conflict, discovering along the way that her twin sister has been recruited by the very organization that seeks to destroy the hunters.
The summoner's life is one of secrecy, danger, and eternal conflict. Though powerful, the summoners have been forced into hiding; pursued tirelessly for millennia by the group calling themselves hunters, those sworn to destroy the Order of summoners and the demons they command.
The allure of the summoner's power cannot be resisted, and Chandra finds herself drawn into the conflict, discovering along the way that her twin sister has been recruited by the very organization that seeks to destroy the hunters.
428 pages, Hardcover
Published October 20, 2020
3 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Calvin
13 books54 followersA.J. Calvin is a science fiction/fantasy novelist from Loveland, Colorado known best for The Caein Legacy series and The Relics of War series. By day, she works as a microbiologist, but in her free time she writes. She lives with her husband, a turtle, and a salt water aquarium.
When she is not working or writing, she enjoys scuba diving, hiking, and playing video games.
Be sure to follow A.J. on BookBub for new release alerts and more! https://www.bookbub.com/authors/a-j-c...
For more information on the author and news about her writing, please visit her website at www.ajcalvin.net.
When she is not working or writing, she enjoys scuba diving, hiking, and playing video games.
Be sure to follow A.J. on BookBub for new release alerts and more! https://www.bookbub.com/authors/a-j-c...
For more information on the author and news about her writing, please visit her website at www.ajcalvin.net.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
October 7, 2021
This book was seriously addictive! I really enjoyed HUNTED, the story of an ordinary girl who discovers she has frightening supernatural powers—the ability to summon demons. Chandra Gray is in college and has a fraternal twin (Zandra—more on her later!) when she begins receiving strange phone calls. She soon learns from Ailzak, an experienced summoner that she is a powerful summoner who must learn to control her ability to summon demons. This is a well written novel with a wonderful, detailed world building and a well explained magic system. In addition to summoners, there are also hunters, who seek to destroy the summoners… and someone very close to Chandra may be destined to be her downfall (the setup here was really awesome.) Great pacing, with a good sense of threat/suspense and interesting scenes as we watch Chandra’s training progress.
Each different demon that Chandra learns to summon is intricately described. The scenes with the incubus/succubus was a favorite. I also enjoyed the tension between Ketae/Chandra/Ailzak as Ketae and Chandra were struggling to navigate a romantic relationship and that dynamic began to interfere with her training. The first half of the book is mostly set up and training, which I enjoyed. The second half, after Chandra’s transformation into a summoner and ascension into the leader of the order kicks this urban fantasy into a high-octane thrill ride where one sister is pitted against the other. Please tell me there will be a sequel!
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
Each different demon that Chandra learns to summon is intricately described. The scenes with the incubus/succubus was a favorite. I also enjoyed the tension between Ketae/Chandra/Ailzak as Ketae and Chandra were struggling to navigate a romantic relationship and that dynamic began to interfere with her training. The first half of the book is mostly set up and training, which I enjoyed. The second half, after Chandra’s transformation into a summoner and ascension into the leader of the order kicks this urban fantasy into a high-octane thrill ride where one sister is pitted against the other. Please tell me there will be a sequel!
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
October 12, 2020
I loved this book. The urban fantasy genre is definitely my thing and this book did not disappoint. The characters are built well and are able to grow throughout the journey of the book.
It was easy to follow along, the events were clear and concise. The description provided enough information for me to imagine what was going on without being overly flowery or wordy. (I have a hard time picturing things, and the more details, the harder it is for me to follow along.)
The ending wasn't your typical happy ending, but it wasn't terrible either. I felt like there was a nice resolution to the events. There is room for another story, but it can end here, too.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book.
It was easy to follow along, the events were clear and concise. The description provided enough information for me to imagine what was going on without being overly flowery or wordy. (I have a hard time picturing things, and the more details, the harder it is for me to follow along.)
The ending wasn't your typical happy ending, but it wasn't terrible either. I felt like there was a nice resolution to the events. There is room for another story, but it can end here, too.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2021
Hunted by A.J. Calvin is a fantasy story that brings something new to the genre. Fantasy lovers that are looking for something different than wizards and quests, will be pleasantly surprised by the time they get to the end of chapter one.
The book follows two fraternal twin sisters, and is told from Chandra’s point of view instead of her twin’s. It seems that both Chandra and Xandra have special powers, only they now find themselves on opposing sides in a war that has lasted for thousands of years between the summoners and the hunters. Xandra’s powers allow her to join the hunters, a secret society dedicated to destroying the summoners. Chandra becomes a powerful summoner, able to control demons.
For eight years Xandra believes that her twin is dead until fate and the murder of another summoner at her hands brings the sisters together. Unlike many fantasy books where the characters prevail and have a happy ending, Hunted is a little different. Readers will be satisfied at the story’s conclusion, even though everyone doesn’t “happily ever after”.
Often set in Seattle and Boston, author A.J. Calvin brings these familiar U.S. cities to life. Readers can easily picture themselves walking down the streets, and even the descriptions of the tunnels that exist beneath the cities are realistic. The primary characters are well-rounded. Readers will find themselves identifying with at least one. Whether it’s Chandra trying to stay under her twin’s radar, Xandra, or the summoner formally known as Elliot.
Even though the characters have powers that set them apart from other humans, they still suffer the same emotions. Love, fear, anger, remorse, and even guilt. It does make them more identifiable and helps the story flow smoothly. The only downside is some of the names can be difficult to pronounce. However, it doesn’t take away from the story only gives it an additional element. Hunted is also a story about living an ‘average life’. Sometimes, people learn that they’re not as ordinary as they thought.
“Yes, I suppose I do have some explaining to do,” he replied. “I called you here because you possess a great talent, one that you undoubtedly don’t know that you have. I happened to notice you a little over a week ago—you were in this area of town, with some friends, going to dinner I presume. I could feel your power then, and I knew I must take this opportunity to teach you how to use it.” He shook his head slightly, wonder spreading across his face. “You can become very great, Chandra Grey…You do not need to live an average life; you can become so much more than ordinary.”
If you’re looking for a new spin on fantasy and want to escape from your ordinary life, A.J. Calvin’s novel Hunted is a perfect choice.
The book follows two fraternal twin sisters, and is told from Chandra’s point of view instead of her twin’s. It seems that both Chandra and Xandra have special powers, only they now find themselves on opposing sides in a war that has lasted for thousands of years between the summoners and the hunters. Xandra’s powers allow her to join the hunters, a secret society dedicated to destroying the summoners. Chandra becomes a powerful summoner, able to control demons.
For eight years Xandra believes that her twin is dead until fate and the murder of another summoner at her hands brings the sisters together. Unlike many fantasy books where the characters prevail and have a happy ending, Hunted is a little different. Readers will be satisfied at the story’s conclusion, even though everyone doesn’t “happily ever after”.
Often set in Seattle and Boston, author A.J. Calvin brings these familiar U.S. cities to life. Readers can easily picture themselves walking down the streets, and even the descriptions of the tunnels that exist beneath the cities are realistic. The primary characters are well-rounded. Readers will find themselves identifying with at least one. Whether it’s Chandra trying to stay under her twin’s radar, Xandra, or the summoner formally known as Elliot.
Even though the characters have powers that set them apart from other humans, they still suffer the same emotions. Love, fear, anger, remorse, and even guilt. It does make them more identifiable and helps the story flow smoothly. The only downside is some of the names can be difficult to pronounce. However, it doesn’t take away from the story only gives it an additional element. Hunted is also a story about living an ‘average life’. Sometimes, people learn that they’re not as ordinary as they thought.
“Yes, I suppose I do have some explaining to do,” he replied. “I called you here because you possess a great talent, one that you undoubtedly don’t know that you have. I happened to notice you a little over a week ago—you were in this area of town, with some friends, going to dinner I presume. I could feel your power then, and I knew I must take this opportunity to teach you how to use it.” He shook his head slightly, wonder spreading across his face. “You can become very great, Chandra Grey…You do not need to live an average life; you can become so much more than ordinary.”
If you’re looking for a new spin on fantasy and want to escape from your ordinary life, A.J. Calvin’s novel Hunted is a perfect choice.
November 2, 2020
Hunted has a tightly-constructed plot. Everything is there for a reason and nothing is added just for grins. Calvin does a very nice job of maintaining a steady pace that accelerates perfectly as the plot moves towards its conclusion. Her ideas and descriptions of certain other worldly creatures are original and really bring them to life.
I would have liked to have found out more about some of the backgrounds of the competing groups. This would have made their rivalry even more compelling. While the main characters had a great deal of depth, some of the supporting cast were a bit thinly-drawn.
Overall this was a very entertaining story that I think fans of urban fantasy (or even dark fantasy) will enjoy.
I would have liked to have found out more about some of the backgrounds of the competing groups. This would have made their rivalry even more compelling. While the main characters had a great deal of depth, some of the supporting cast were a bit thinly-drawn.
Overall this was a very entertaining story that I think fans of urban fantasy (or even dark fantasy) will enjoy.
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September 21, 2020Very Good read. Once I started I couldn't put it down. Great story line, wonderful characters, has it all action, romance, family everything you want in a good story. Each new chapter leaves you wanting more and more. I couldn't finish it fast enough.
February 13, 2021
Great read. Story and characters are very well developed with deep connections throughout the book as a whole.
February 9, 2021
In the first chapter, I can already feel the dark vibe surrounding this book. It was good and intriguing. And I like how Chandra narrates because I feel like she's telling the story to me directly.
However, the reason why I DNFed this one is that I have a problem with the main character, Chandra. Going further into the book I can't still find any specific to what actually is her character. All I can see is she easily agreed to most of what Ilzak says, and I can't stop myself from rolling my eyes everytime it happened. I find it also a little clichè when the story starts with Chandra being a powerful summoner without knowing it.
And honestly, it's also problematic because of the overrated tropes were used in this book, and Chandra said in the beginning that all she excelled at are because of her hard work then when the summoner said that he will teach her how to enhanced her gifts she was like "yes. I should do this. I can feel there is something special to me even in the past" I was like "Really, girl?". I mean at first she was reluctant to this "summoning" thing and then when a trick was performed by this summoner she will instantly say yes.
I can't really force myself to push through the book because if I can't vibe with the characters, I will hate the book even further. For me, it didn't also help that the author uses the overrated trope without any twist or in-depth explanation to it.
However, the reason why I DNFed this one is that I have a problem with the main character, Chandra. Going further into the book I can't still find any specific to what actually is her character. All I can see is she easily agreed to most of what Ilzak says, and I can't stop myself from rolling my eyes everytime it happened. I find it also a little clichè when the story starts with Chandra being a powerful summoner without knowing it.
And honestly, it's also problematic because of the overrated tropes were used in this book, and Chandra said in the beginning that all she excelled at are because of her hard work then when the summoner said that he will teach her how to enhanced her gifts she was like "yes. I should do this. I can feel there is something special to me even in the past" I was like "Really, girl?". I mean at first she was reluctant to this "summoning" thing and then when a trick was performed by this summoner she will instantly say yes.
I can't really force myself to push through the book because if I can't vibe with the characters, I will hate the book even further. For me, it didn't also help that the author uses the overrated trope without any twist or in-depth explanation to it.
March 13, 2021
🔘 Hunted by A.J. Calvin 🔘
🚩This story follows an ordinary woman, Chandra Grey, who goes into this dangerous world where her own sister is hunting her.
🚩Once I read what this was about, I instantly knew I wanted to give it a try. It sounded so interesting and I really wanted to read it.
🚩A.J. Calvin has such a beautiful writing style. I really did enjoy the way he structured the story. I absolutely loved the idea of this ordinary woman being hunted by her own sister. I was so certain I would enjoy this, however that wasn’t the case.
🚩I always hate writing bad reviews. I feel like I’m attacking the author, which I am not. I would still give A.J. Calvin another try, even if I didn’t enjoy this one.
🚩This definitely is a personal preference. I’m sure if you’re very into Fantasy then this one is for you. It really was high on fantasy, which I personally do not enjoy as much.
🚩Oh wow did I really dislike the main character. I really thought she was so problematic and unlikeable. I’m still glad I gave it a try honestly because it was beautifully written. The story just wasn’t for me personally.
🚩I was so close to DNF’ing this one, but I knew I couldn’t because I requested it and had to review it. I also think this story should’ve been more character driven. I also think the dialogue was so confusing compared to the rest of the story.
🚩Unfortunately this book wasn’t for me. I do think Fantasy lovers will love it and therefore I would recommend it to you all. I still had a pleasant time with it, but I definitely would’ve not pushed through if it wasn’t because I had requested it.
•Huge thank you to NetGalley and A.J. Calvin for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.•
🚩This story follows an ordinary woman, Chandra Grey, who goes into this dangerous world where her own sister is hunting her.
🚩Once I read what this was about, I instantly knew I wanted to give it a try. It sounded so interesting and I really wanted to read it.
🚩A.J. Calvin has such a beautiful writing style. I really did enjoy the way he structured the story. I absolutely loved the idea of this ordinary woman being hunted by her own sister. I was so certain I would enjoy this, however that wasn’t the case.
🚩I always hate writing bad reviews. I feel like I’m attacking the author, which I am not. I would still give A.J. Calvin another try, even if I didn’t enjoy this one.
🚩This definitely is a personal preference. I’m sure if you’re very into Fantasy then this one is for you. It really was high on fantasy, which I personally do not enjoy as much.
🚩Oh wow did I really dislike the main character. I really thought she was so problematic and unlikeable. I’m still glad I gave it a try honestly because it was beautifully written. The story just wasn’t for me personally.
🚩I was so close to DNF’ing this one, but I knew I couldn’t because I requested it and had to review it. I also think this story should’ve been more character driven. I also think the dialogue was so confusing compared to the rest of the story.
🚩Unfortunately this book wasn’t for me. I do think Fantasy lovers will love it and therefore I would recommend it to you all. I still had a pleasant time with it, but I definitely would’ve not pushed through if it wasn’t because I had requested it.
•Huge thank you to NetGalley and A.J. Calvin for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.•
October 8, 2023
"Hunted" by A.J. Calvin is a thrilling fantasy novel that introduces readers to a world of summoners, demons, and a relentless conflict between good and evil. The story revolves around Chandra Grey, an ordinary woman whose life takes a dramatic turn when she encounters a summoner and discovers her own extraordinary abilities.
The novel excels in world-building, immersing readers in a complex and intriguing universe filled with magic and danger. Calvin crafts a captivating narrative that explores the age-old conflict between summoners and hunters, two opposing forces with their own motivations and secrets. The concept of summoning demons adds an exciting and supernatural dimension to the story.
Chandra is a relatable and well-developed protagonist, and her journey of self-discovery and empowerment is compelling. The moral dilemmas she faces and her determination to protect her twin sister from the hunters add depth to her character.
The pacing is brisk, and the action sequences are well-executed, keeping readers engaged from start to finish. While some plot elements may feel familiar to fans of fantasy literature, "Hunted" offers a fresh take on the genre with its unique premise and well-crafted mythology.
Overall, "Hunted" is a four-star fantasy novel that delivers an exciting and immersive reading experience. It sets the stage for an intriguing series, and fans of magical adventures with a strong protagonist will find themselves eagerly awaiting the next installment.
The novel excels in world-building, immersing readers in a complex and intriguing universe filled with magic and danger. Calvin crafts a captivating narrative that explores the age-old conflict between summoners and hunters, two opposing forces with their own motivations and secrets. The concept of summoning demons adds an exciting and supernatural dimension to the story.
Chandra is a relatable and well-developed protagonist, and her journey of self-discovery and empowerment is compelling. The moral dilemmas she faces and her determination to protect her twin sister from the hunters add depth to her character.
The pacing is brisk, and the action sequences are well-executed, keeping readers engaged from start to finish. While some plot elements may feel familiar to fans of fantasy literature, "Hunted" offers a fresh take on the genre with its unique premise and well-crafted mythology.
Overall, "Hunted" is a four-star fantasy novel that delivers an exciting and immersive reading experience. It sets the stage for an intriguing series, and fans of magical adventures with a strong protagonist will find themselves eagerly awaiting the next installment.
August 1, 2023
Hunted was not at all what I expected—in a good way. An urban fantasy set partly in Seattle, I definitely got the gloomy mood overcasting the story, especially in the last third or so.
The premise was entertaining and had some interesting concepts: summoners being able to summon demons (different kinds of spirits, not just evil beings), and hunters being able to detect demons and destroy them. The main character, Chandra, and her twin sister, Xandra, unknowingly find themselves in these opposing factions.
Over the course of the story, the themes got pretty deep, which I admired. This book explores betrayal, rifts between family members, vengeance, and the cost of said vengeance. The end was very bittersweet—I felt both sides committed some grave wrongs, but there was hope for healing. I noted that the author said she wrote this in a dark time of her life, and I could see how this book might have been a way to process it.
If you like urban fantasy with magical creatures and dark themes, you may like this book.
The premise was entertaining and had some interesting concepts: summoners being able to summon demons (different kinds of spirits, not just evil beings), and hunters being able to detect demons and destroy them. The main character, Chandra, and her twin sister, Xandra, unknowingly find themselves in these opposing factions.
Over the course of the story, the themes got pretty deep, which I admired. This book explores betrayal, rifts between family members, vengeance, and the cost of said vengeance. The end was very bittersweet—I felt both sides committed some grave wrongs, but there was hope for healing. I noted that the author said she wrote this in a dark time of her life, and I could see how this book might have been a way to process it.
If you like urban fantasy with magical creatures and dark themes, you may like this book.
January 22, 2021
'The Hunted' by A.J. Calvin is an urban fantasy with an interesting premise, but never really took off the ground for me, unfortunately. I'm a very character driven reader and prefer a slow burn, but the characters felt one dimensional to me. I wasn't really a fan of the writing style either - it was written from a first person point of view and the language of the narration was very formal, whereas the dialogue was very casual and used slang. It was quite jarring and while I think the formal language was an attempt at sounding serious, it didn't really work and instead it felt quite juvenile.
~ Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this title ~
~ Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this title ~
January 3, 2022
A Gritty Urban Fantasy
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The conflict set up between Chandra and her twin sister Zandra at the beginning kept me flipping through the pages. The thought Calvin put into how each summoner works and into the training regime was carefully planned and well executed. I would have liked to see more of the world because the peeks Calvin does give us are fascinating.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The conflict set up between Chandra and her twin sister Zandra at the beginning kept me flipping through the pages. The thought Calvin put into how each summoner works and into the training regime was carefully planned and well executed. I would have liked to see more of the world because the peeks Calvin does give us are fascinating.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews