Still Chosen: Another Unwanted Adventure

by Stephanie G. Olson

You’re still The Chosen One. If someone needs to face the new evil in the world, you’re it.

When Phoebe was sixteen, she died to save the world. Not ideal, but it was the only way to destroy the power-mad wizard who was ripping a hole in the universe. Besides, she came back to life, so it all worked out, right? Twenty years later, Phoebe is queen of the realm and while the kingdom is finally at peace, the routine of life has grown dull – until the divine messenger from her youth reappears with evidence of the dead wizard’s return and demands Phoebe stop him once again.

Phoebe has no interest in another harrowing adventure since her personal life fell apart after the last her old friends haven’t spoken to her in years, the “love of her life” is long gone, and she hasn't performed real magic in nearly a decade. But she knows if the wizard turns out to be alive it will be her fault for failing. Oh, and he’ll try to tear apart the universe again. Whatever the evil is, Phoebe needs to get strong enough to stop it from destroying everything she loves, because she’s the only one who can.

It turns out, once you’re The Chosen One, you’re always The Chosen One – and destiny is forever.

Cover art by Greta Sandquist
Cover design by Jason Norman - The Paper Prophet

Genres: Fantasy

347 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 7, 2025

About the author

Stephanie Olson (she/her) is a writer, horror movie enthusiast (especially the bad ones), and Halloween-all-year person. The first story she ever wrote was the gripping tale of a haunted bog. It was created in an attempt to scare her bunkmates at summer camp, and the result was so successful she was banned from writing any more stories that week. She’s been chasing that high ever since.

While horror is her first love, she also enjoys fantasy and mysteries.

Stephanie has a short story published in Spontaneous Combustion Volume II, by Sic Semper Serpent, and has written numerous episodes for the horror anthology podcast, Ghost Wax.

She lives in Minnesota with her husband and dog.

Reviews

[Peyton bookinhand · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very sweet and fun with a big heart!
I loved seeing an older FMC in this fantasy story! Mercury was hilarious and loved his comic relief. Going on an adventure with all the array of characters is just what I have been craving in my fantasy reads!
I can't wait to see what Steph does next! 🥰

[Mariel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was refreshing. I loved reading from an older main character. At some points I did feel like some reactions were a little juvenile - until I realized that I myself, a 30 year old woman, have had panic attacks and gotten angry over far less. I guess it was a good reminder that while we get older, we are not always wiser and have plenty yet to learn. The side characters were also very enjoyable and I didn't see the big plot twist coming which is rare for me. The overall plot was also very fun- I loved watching the "old" characters reuniting and found myself intrigued by the back stories. Overall a really solid read. I would absolutely love to read the prequel even if I know how it ends!

[Matt Cahoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hell of a strong debut novel. The characters, story and setting are super fun. Very satisfying and yet you want another adventure when it's over.

[Colton Mollerud · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun, adventurous adult fantasy novel centered on a 36 year old female main character. This was a really enjoyable read with a mix of lol moments, heartfelt moments and great character development. As someone who reads a lot of YA fantasy it was great to have a book that features a protagonist my own age!

[Sheryl Patricelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!!! I recommend it to EVERYONE who enjoys adventure stories. Especially adults who enjoy Fantasy without “spice”.

I loved how the story shows that friendships and relationships change naturally over the course of life and follows a strong woman learning to depend on and trust others.

The Characters are complex, world is built beautifully, I love the magic aspect. There were funny moments, sad moments, sweet moments. Couldn’t put the book down and hope there are more to come!

The one thing I noticed is just twice the wonderfully chaotic Ethereal creature was referred to with “He/Him” pronouns when the rest of the time it is “They/Them”. But I’m a nitpicker!

[Casey Bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a buddy read! Phoebe is queen of the realm. She is the "chosen one" by the goddesses and has received all magical abilities, not just one like a usual gifted person. Because of this, she and her companions were the ones to save the realm from evil in the past. Appointed to queen and now a bit older, Phoebe is happy with her non-adventurous lifestyle. When a most mischievous figure from her past pops up and whisks her off on another adventure to save the realm, she is reluctant to pick up the mantle again. But once you're the chosen one, you're always the chosen one. We adventure along with Phoebe and companions, some old and some new, as she tries to figure out this new situation and keep her people safe once again. We are hit with some surprising twists and turns, and some emotional truths that could really resonate with readers. I love that we have an FMC in her late 30's in this one! That's my age range and something I rarely see, I feel like. There is a lot of wit and humor woven into the writing, which I enjoyed. Mercury is my favorite, IYKYK. It's a fun and entertaining adventure story, with some emotional depth and top-tier found family! I would say it's on the lighter side in terms of detailing, but sometimes you just want a quick, entertaining fantasy story that's not a 600-page tome with intricate detailing and world-building.  This is that. Great debut!

[Mel Rogers · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an incredibly fun ride this was! Fantasy fans are going to love this tale of adventure, friendship, laughs, and magic. In this debut novel from Stephanie G. Olson, our FMC goes through quite the journey of self discovery. It was so refreshing to read about a 36 year old FMC who is still on a journey of self discovery. We are constantly growing and changing so this story felt so relatable. I loved the touches of magic and humor woven throughout this story as well. While it reads slightly more YA as there isn’t spice (which who says it has to have spice to be considered adult?) it is truly an adult story with an incredible journey. I had so much fun reading this book and I cannot wait to see what Olson has in store for us next!

Stephanie G. Olson kindly gifted me a copy of this book in return for my honest review. Thank you so much for this gift! My opinions are my own.

[sarah_bbgr · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️ - I was intrigued by this book's premise and a desire to support a new indie author, but unfortunately, this one was a bit of a slog. I did not find the protagonist particularly likable and the love interest was as appealing as soggy cardboard. I really enjoyed some of the side characters and, aside from even more *told not shown* backstory, wish they could've been fleshed out further. While I get the idea that so much of this story hinges on the past, overall there was still too much *telling* for me. But, the biggest issue I have with it is the overabundance of emotional intelligence monologues - I'm all for self-reflective characters with the ability to actually communicate, but the narrative got bogged down by everyone having big heart-to-heart/inspiring moments that read like therapy sessions. I wanted more actual adventure and worldbuilding.

[Kadja Andrade · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a really good read! It was refreshing to have an adult female that really acted like her age #amen. There was balance between what I'd love to read when I as a teenager and the maturity of the characters (that were all very well written, BTW).
The plot twist was really good too! As I was reading, I thought every other possibly but the way that the story went. I just felt the romance a bit rushed, but I like the way things went in general. I can't wait to read more books by the author, it was an excellent debut novel, for sure!

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hadn’t realized how much I was missing a relatable perspective in fantasy. Stephanie captured the way friendships age perfectly—the kind you had big moments with, but then life happens? But then the world needs saved again…you know, those friendships.

I hope you see this, Stephanie. It was a delight to imagine you writing this and Colton playing music in the background. Thank you for creating a great read for us millennials escaping into fantasy reads. ❤️

[Kailey Newland · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun and entertaining stand alone story. It's not that dark and twisted - not an anxiety provoking read. The FMC is a truly kind-hearted person, which was refreshing. Mercury, a feline immortal being, has a humorous personality that perfectly embodies what a cat must be thinking. I really liked the magic system and how much the characters use it. I didn’t see the plot twist at the end coming. Loved this little story the whole way.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are into fantasy, you should run out and read this book. The premise is so fun—what if the teenage hero who saved the world is asked to do it all over again when she’s in her 30s? The characters are rich, interesting, and relatable, the magic is fun, and I was invested in this world almost immediately. I loved reading this book.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't usually write reviews, but given the indie author status, I feel compelled. I'm not sure how I stumbled upon this book, but the description was so enticing I instantly ordered it. I would put this in the "cozy fantasy" genre. Not a super complex plot, but some tricky emotional development and cozy feels. I had a really good time reading it!

[Hannah Lang · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what this book would hold for me but it surprised me in the best way! The characters and their growth was phenomenal! I loved the soul searching and the closure everyone but you know who found. And the twist shocked me! I truly did not see it coming! Despite the main character being over 30 it does read as YA but I did not find that to be a barrier to a hell of a good time!

[Jessica Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such a strong debut! I adored the premise and the story was interesting and emotional. The writing was natural and vivid while the characters were sympathetic, flawed but understandable.
I just really loved this story and how it was woven.
I can't wait for more from Stephanie.

[Kalli Caturia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was slow to start and I almost didn’t finish it, but I’m glad I picked it back up! Everything comes together once the adventure crew starts to grow. The ending is unexpected and so wholesome - if you can stick with a slow start, I definitely recommend this book!

[Alexandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story, I love older, more mature heroines with live experience who are no longer as spry and strong but still give everything they have and more.
The plot kept me on my toes throughout and I was thrilled with the solution.
More please!

[Alessandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very well written. Nicely portrayed characters with valid backstories and realistic developments.
The twist was also quite good, although some parts felt a bit strained and forced.
Overall, a nicely construed fantasy story.

[Jessica Willoughby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun

This was a good book that has all the elements I love of a good Romantasy with a powerful female lead who has to save the world but the main character is 36 which I loved. It’s nice to see a story written with a main character not barely able to legally drink.

[Writing With Chaos · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is everything I could have asked for. I don’t like posting spoilers so all I’m going to say is damn. I didn’t see those twists coming. I’m still shocked. Definitely 10/5

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book I've read in a while! Unique story, relatable heroine, witty banter, great character development, easy to read, satisfying ending. Highly recommend

[Wendy Fossum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charming tale

Fun, quick read that brings great YA fantasy nostalgia for grown ups who miss the YA fantasies of their youth.