Hunted

Sinners #2

by Abi Ketner, Missy Kalicicki

HUNTED is the electrifying sequel to the bestselling debut BRANDED, A Sinners Series, by Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki.

It’s been three months since the revolt against the Commander’s fifty-year-old regime failed.

Under a new ruler, things were supposed to change. Get better.

But can anyone really be trusted?

Lexi and Cole soon find out, as life takes an unexpected turn for the worse.

In this ever-changing world, you must hunt or be hunted.

Lives will be lost.

Dreams will be crushed.

Fears will be realized.

Secrets will be exposed.

When Cole is once again faced with losing Lexi at the hands of a monster, one encounter will change everything.

Forever.

Connect with BRANDED fans on Instagram at:
#abiandmissy
#Sinnersfandom
#Sinnersseries
#Colexi
#Sinnersseriesbranded
#Brandedofficialfanpage
#Brandedfandom
#Lexihamilton

Genres: Dystopia, Young Adult, Romance, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Ebooks, Teen

414 pages, Paperback

First published April 28, 2015

About the author

Abi Ketner Is a registered nurse with a passion for novels, the beaches of St. John, and her Philadelphia Phillies. A talented singer, Abi loves to go running, lifting and spend lots of time with her family. She currently resides in Lancaster, Pennsylvania with her husband, triplet daughters and one very spoiled dog.

Instagram @abiandmissy
Twitter @abiandmissy
Facebook authorsabiandmissy

Reviews

[The Y.A. Bookworm Blogger · Rating 4 out of 5]

This books was PACKED with action; the authors did a great job at keeping the intensity levels high throughout the entire novel! There's so many things I'm trying to process in my brain but I sure am ready for book three!!!

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 Stars

Review also posted at Her Book Thoughts
Hunted was jaw droppingly amazing. It was fast paced, had the right amount of action, mixed in some sexy times with Cole and Lexie, yet still managed to break my heart. In my opinion, Hunted was a step up from Branded, the writing was better, and it was even more suspenseful then Branded, which I didn’t think possible.

Cole continues to be an absolutely amazing guy. He is just such a hottie. Hunted really dives into exploring more of the amazing characters of Lexie, Cole, Bruno and Grace. Lexie is so tough and she never gives up what she believes in. Plus, Lexie continues to be such a realistic character and goes through substantial development. Of course, we have Zeus, the amazing dog companion who everyone loves. I’ve yet to talk to anyone who's read Branded and Hunted who doesn't like Zeus. (And how could you, he's an adorable dog for crying out loud!) But back to Cole and Lexie, not only are they dealing with their own struggles they have to deal with so much craziness around them and live in such a terrifying world.

The ENDING though. After breaking your heart, and leaving you swooning, Hunted still manages to end on an extremely high note that will leave you guessing and your mouth hanging open. I cannot wait for Liberated!

[V. A Court of Wings and Ruin is NEW ADULT/EROTICA but Goodreads editors won't tell you to include it in the choice awards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful cover! I can't wait!

Update
4.5 stars
I finally read it! I think that as far as sequel go, this one is extremely good. There was action non-stop, laughs and plenty of melt-your-heart-moments to balance the bleakness of the world.

I wasn't expecting much of this book to be honest, because usually sequels are such a let down but overall I though this did the job.

As usual my favorite character was Zeus. In this book he has his shiny moments and I'm only sorry that we can't have a book from his perspective :)

My only problem is the CLIFFHANGER. I hate having to wait for sequels because by the time I'm reading the following installment I have to re-read the first books and I just don't have time to read. Having said that the cliffy ending left me reeling so it's not bad.

I think this book is not as good as Branded but as a follow up book is great and I recommend it.

[Lexie · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, I have to say Hunted was one of my most anticipated books of 2015 and let me tell you it did not disappoint. I finished the book two days ago, and oh boy did I need those two days to come down from that book hangover. Now that I’ve caught my breath its time to tell everyone how amazing this book was!

Being the second book in any series always worries me. Because majority of the time most sequels can never live up to their first book. But Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki did not let us down. From beginning to end, Hunted was fast paced and it kept me on the edge of my seat from page to page. I could picture this world and everything occurring in it so vividly, no matter how bloody it got.

And lets not forget the characters. I loved that in Hunted we got know every character on a new level. Lexi is of course my favorite heroine hands down. I loved that she didn’t cower in fear, she remained passionate and fought for everything and everyone she holds dear, no matter how challenging it became. Cole was of course sexy as all get out. His love for Lexi is enduring that you just can’t help but to swoon for him. Then of course theres Bruno and Grace. I loved that we got to learn more about the two of them and see them working as this adorable dynamic duo.

Overall Hunted was very good, I give it 4 out of 5 stars, I have a few reasons (minor ones), as to why this book was not a solid five. I felt that some scenes dragged on a bit too long. Plus this one tiny part of predictability I saw since the very beginning.

But bottom line, this book was amazing and everything that I could’ve asked for in a sequel. I laughed, I cried, I swore. I swear Abi and Missy know how to make anyone go through every emotional stage. Hunted is one amazing ride from start to finish. You do not, I repeat do not want to miss this book.

[Hungergames_fan]

I


AM



SO



FLIPPIN




EXITED





BRANDED WAS AMAZING AND I CANT WAIT FOR THIS ONE!!!!! I SHIP COLEXI!!!!!!!!:D

[Jedi Jax · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was okay.....not as good as the first book, which I gave 5-stars. It was a little slow at times and took me awhile to finish. They are basically running from Wilson and his men and were always in hiding. I found Lexi to be very weak minded and not exactly your tough, kick-ass heroine. I do plan to read the last book during the times that I'm out and about in public because it's a safe, clean book to read =)

[Maddy · Rating 4 out of 5]

PLEASE READ THIS SERIES!!! It is sooooo good OMG I rate it 4/5 stars I was addicted to it but the ending killed me. I loved all the characters and some of the deaths really made me cry so so hard omg! But the worst part is the ending I'm dying I need to k ow what's happening next!! Ahhh!!!! When's the next book out?!?!??!

[Mademoizelleflo (flowlessbooks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 2 in the Sinners series. This review will spoil you if you haven't read the first book, Branded.

Lexi and Cole are trying to stay hidden from Wilson's army. They are meeting with Sutton, Bruno and Grace. Sutton has a plan to take down the hole. It's their only opportunity. But Sutton is abducted by Wilson's men. They then decide to go back in the hole, to save Sutton and carry on his mission.

I had a really hard time remembering who was who between Sutton and Wilson. I read Branded more than a year ago. So a little "reminder" would have been great. Because of it I didn't enjoy the first chapters as much as I would have liked to. Because I was lost.
Otherwise, I really enjoyed this book. It's fast paced, action packed and full of plot twists I didn't see coming.

Characters :
- Lexi is now a warrior. She is strong minded, and wants to protect Cole (and Zeus) no matter what.
- Cole will do everything for Lexi. He loves her so much. But he is keeping a really dark secret from her. it puts tension between them.
- Crazy Bill, ah Bill. I love this character, he is really interesting. He is so loyal and funny ! He truly cares for Lexi and her quest.
- Grace is so loveable. She is both fragile and strong in her way.


Overall I really enjoyed this book. I couldn't put it down because I wanted to know how this would end. ANd the final plot twist is kind of amazing.

[Mollie C · Rating 5 out of 5]

To say this book blew my mind would be an understatement. Authors Abi and Missy did a phenomenal job at character development, creating so much action you just cant stop reading and a romance that melts your heart.

Lexi Hamilton blew me away with her development as a character. Her courage to continue on after so much happened in the revolt is certainly a different Lexi to the sad and scared Lexi in Branded.

The writing of action is unlike I have ever read before! Abi and Missy really have a talent of making really action packed scenes with lots of drama and also a lot of humour at the same time. The action was really fast paced and also realistic at the same time, making it easier to imagine it in your mind and to come addicted to the story and never be able to put it down.

Hunted was a really action packed read filled with drama, humour, romance and was an incredible sequel to Branded. Abi and Missy have done it again! Totally need Liberated now after that ending.

MY RATING: 6 out of 5 stars!

[nancy (The Ravenous Reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ohh my! This book was non-stop, action packed roller coaster ride of adrenaline. My heart was in my throat and I could not help but let out these whelps of agony until the very last sentence and then it was a scream heard around the world "NOOOOOOOOO!"

Yup I'm a mess.

So, when is the next book coming out?

[AJ · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 demoralizing stars

I LOVED the first book in this series. Branded introduced us to a brutal dystopian world ruled by the formidable ‘Commander’, where merely an accusation of somebody breaking one of the seven deadly sins would see them thrown into the ‘Hole’.

(Please note that this review does contain some spoilers for the first book in the series.)

17 year old Lexi was falsely accused of the sin of lust, and was thrown into the Hole as punishment. She barely survived her ordeal, and managed to escape with the help of her love, Cole, her former guard, and the last we saw of the two of them they had escaped and were on the run. This book picks up immediately where the last one left off, with Lexi, Cole and their allies searching for safety in the outside world. Until they learn that one of their own is in danger, and they are faced with the seemingly hopeless decision to continue their search for a safe haven, or go back and save their loved one, ensuring that the revolution continues its momentum.

It was a solid start and there seemed to be a lot happening, but the story didn’t actually progress a lot, and the overall feeling is one of suspense and despair. Lexi and Cole’s love story continues to be a shining light, as does the involvement of fellow former guard, Bruno and his lighthearted joking, but the twists, turns and reveals see our intrepid little group facing heartache and horrifying truths. There is drama, grief and loss, with very little gain, which ultimately all felt really pointless, making the story all the more depressing and I finished it feeling really deflated. There’s yet another twist thrown in at the end, no doubt as an excuse to keep people intrigued enough to pick up the next book, but honestly it’s not really one I’m interested in exploring.

The writing is strong and the emotion is there, there’s just so much of it without much joy that it all got a bit much. After such a strong start to this series, I was so excited at the possibilities of where it could go, but at the moment I’m feeling a bit down about it all and not sure if I really feel like continuing on :\

2.5 stars – it was ok.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting and waiting for this book. I have been anticipating this so much that when I got it, I practically couldn't breathe. I wanted to devour this book in one sitting but knew if I did, I wouldn't be happy it was over so fast. I can tell you that reading it slower does not alleviate the pain of it being over and having to wait for the next one.

Lexi has grown in this book. While it may have been it 3 months since she left the Hole, she has witnessed and experienced so much while in the Hole and on the run that she has had to adapt to her surroundings. There are things that she does in this installment that shocked me because the Lexi that was in Branded wouldn't have done those things. She's matured and realized that there are things that need to be done even if they are out of the norm for you.

The authors put you through every emotion in this book. My heart was wrenched out of my chest numerous times. I was laughing, scared, dumbstruck, and taken aback throughout. I was shocked by the secrets that were revealed and by the old characters showing up and I wasn't sure what was going to come around the next literary corner. When I finished the book, I messaged Abi Ketner and asked her something along the lines of why she hated me so much that her and her partner in crime would do that to me.

I am even more impatient for the next book. I have no clue what to expect in the next book, even though it's entitled Liberated, because Abi & Missy shocked me with this one. I thought I knew what was going to happen but I was completely wrong. The authors did such a good job with the character growth and world creation that I have super high expectations for the next one. No pressure or anything. ;)

[BookWorm 221 · Rating 3 out of 5]

www.bookworm221.tumblr.com



I absolutely hate to say this but this book fell a little short for me, I was having a very hard time trying to get into the action and I think that really hurt my reading experience.

That said I do think that it has many good parts, parts that I enjoyed reading and parts that left me wanting more (that ending!), and I’ll definitely keep reading this series.

We are back with Lexi and Cole as they along with Zeus (I want a Zeus in my life) and other friends try to come up with a plan to finally get rid of the Hole and make sinners free. In trying to do this, they go through some horrific experiences and their sanity and bravery is tested again and again.

There were many moments where I couldn’t believe what I was reading, many plot twists happening and making the book exciting and more enjoyable.

Keep Calm and Read On

Instagram and Twitter @bookquotes221

[sam · Rating 3 out of 5]

First thoughts: Oh. My. God. This book kept me captivated from start to finish, with so much action and so many plot twists.
In depth thoughts: I had many theories that were proven wrong: Bill was ambushing them the whole time, Lexi was going to die and that Lexi's mum didn't send her to the hole, but her dad did. Luckily these were proven wrong, because it kept me guessing non-stop, but I did predict Grace's death. Oh aND CAN WE TALK ABOUT THAT ENDING PLEASE?!?!!??!!? OMFG I CANNOT WAIT UNTIL LIBERATED!!!
Overall, this book was captivating and absolutely amazing. I recommend everyone to read it and share this amazing book series.

[Britanny L Grossman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg

Wow what a great freaking book!!!! Book one has nothing in this with so many twists and turns. The last 2 pages of the book are like wtf omfg. The only thing I didn't like is the authors did not go thru book one. It starts where book one stoped and contour are like me and read book one a year ago and have read many other books after its hard to dive into. It's a good idea to read book one again if it's been awhile. But other than that 5+stars lot's of fighting and crying and laughing, everything that makes a good book. Now I gotta wait a year+ for the next one. Hate reading a series that's not finished but it's deff worth it for a great book. Happy reading!

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holy action Batman! Book 2 was packed with it and kept you wanting more. There were so many twists and turns and holy shit moments. And like book 1, I had a “I’m not crying, you’re crying” moment. The author seriously knows how to make me scream whyyyyyyyyyyyyy with tears streaming down my face. Damn the author lol. Awesome book though. I can’t wait to see how this all finishes out

[Mundie Moms & Mundie Kids · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fast paced, action packed sequel! If you thought Abi and Missy left you hanging at the end of Branded, wait till you get to the end of this book. You'll wish you already had Liberated in your hands. Just be prepared for one crazy, thrill ride of a read. Abi an Missy don't gently ease fans back into their dark and twisted world. You better buckle up and prepare for the fast paced, dangerous world of Hunted.

Abi and Missy pick up the story right where they left fans hanging in Branded. From the first page, readers are thrust right back into Lexi and Cole's troubled world. Not to be out done by their debut, this sequel is one heck of a thrill ride. With nonstop action, heart pounding moments, the right amount of sizzling chemistry, and swoon worthy scenes (yep, I said swoon worthy, because I don't know how else to describe them), fans will find it hard to look away from this book for even a moment. I imagine if this book played out on the big screen, I'd walk out of the theater with my adeline running, and my stomach hurting for sitting on the edge of my seat, and holding my breathe so much. There's so much happening in this book, that from beginning to end, this book reads quickly.

Cole and Lexi have had to deal with a lot, and things are about to get a lot crazier. Both characters have a lot to deal with, not just because of all the craziness going on around them, but because of their own demons. Even though some of the things are predictable about what's to come, I still found myself emotionally wrapped up into the things the characters, like Cole & Lexi (cough, cough) experience, and are trying to deal with. I liked that we get to see some old friends and characters we previously met in Branded, back in Hunted, and the roles they played with Cole and Lexi's return to a certain place that will not be named.

Abi and Missy do a great job with describing the world, and events that each of the characters are going through. I wasn't excepting to be so caught up into the story like I was. Let's face it, if you're read Branded, then you know this book's setting is essentially what I imagine hell on earth would be like. Okay, sort of. Minus the brimstone and all that. Though I'm pretty sure if I asked the characters, they would all agree it's hell. As Cole and Lexi know, not all things always go as plan. That includes running away to the very thing Cole and Lexi have been running from. These two find themselves right back at the place that started it all. Only this time, things are a different. These two are driven by the very things that haunt them from the first book.

I like that Hunted has that good mix of attitude, action, humor, and romance. It's all intertwine perfectly. I like that even in the bleakest of times, there's either something humorous to laugh at or something to fan yourself over, because of the swoon factor. The thing is, these moments are moments that are very much apart of the relationships in this book, and I liked that even with all that's going on, these stolen moments were crucial for the characters. They felt realistic. With all the bad going on, these little moments between the various characters were moments of hope, or a moment to forget about the daunting tasks that lay ahead or the hurt that's driven them to this point. These moments were my favorite part of the book.

Over all, I liked Hunted. It's not often that I feel like a sequel lives up to the debut or surpasses it, but I feel like this book does. I'd recommend this book to both YA and NA readers. Hunted is one of those books that is great for readers that are looking for something that crosses over from YA to NA, and fits in perfectly with either place on the shelf. It's an edgier, darker read, with plenty of action, violence, some language and sexual references/scenes. If you like Branded, you'll like the direction that Hunted takes the story in, and you'll be wishing Liberated was already in your hands.

[Wicked Bookcraft Travels · Rating 4 out of 5]

"You can overcome anything, short of death." Hunted (The Sinners Series Book 2)

I just put the book down and I've earned myself a big heavy *sigh*. WOW! that felt nice. I'm not sure I've taken a decent breath since I started this book. I loved Branded (Book 1 in The Sinners Series) so much. Most of the time with a sequel I'm always let down and frustrated. Most sequels tend to be petty and they seem to buy time for the last in the trilogy, so they end up being boring and forgetful. I was crossing my fingers that Hunted didn't do this, I had so much faith in Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki, I wanted this book to be amazing for selfish reasons of course.

Crossing fingers work I guess, for Hunted was amazing. It was a fast pace action trip that left my jaw hanging open (to the point it was sore), from page to page. I loved the bloody violence and a gripping story that Hunted delivered. The characters were well thought out and planned. I really got a good sense of who everyone really was in this sequel. Compassionate to the point of annoyance, Lexi was the perfect heroine. Cole is all alpha male who loves his woman Lexi and will go to the ends of the earth to make sure she stays safe. Sarcastic but funny Bruno is back along with his sweet wife Grace. Let's not forget world's greatest dog Zeus, without him this adventure would not be the same.

Hunted was very good, I gave it four out of five chess pieces, I have a few reasons (minor ones), as to why this book was not a solid five. I felt that some scenes went on a little too long in my opinion, dragging in some areas. I would have liked to picture "The Hole" a little more in my head, so more descriptions of the characters actual surroundings would have been nice. Also, I would have preferred more interaction with the common everyday "Sinners" in the Hole. There was a lot of talk of sinister evil Wilson (Yes, you'll want to strangle him with your own hands), but not much live action with him involved. Wilson's handiwork was evident all over the Hole, including the starving men, women and children that were dying. Wilson did not have to show up personally, for you to see what kind of man he was, sometimes I felt like the gang was fighting a ghost. I know Wilson will come back strong and make much more of an appearance in Liberated, the third book in the Sinners Series.

Bottom line, this book was everything; I laughed at Bruno's dry humor, my heartstrings were tugged at Lexi and Cole's love for each other, I cried when someone who became very important to me died, and last but not least, I now want to buy a dog just to name him Zeus. Abi and/or Missy must know firsthand what it's like when a man loves a woman, because they nail it in The Sinners Series. Cole would say or do something at times that would make me think "My husband would say that to me, in that exact same situation, just to make me feel safe." Ahhhh *swoon*. I can so relate to the love that Cole and Lexi share. Sometimes authors try too hard and it feels fake, not Abi and Missy, they nail the honest passion.

Start with Branded (The Sinners Series Book 1), if you haven't had a chance to get familiar with this series. This dystopian novel is unlike any other. You must read Hunted when it comes out April 28th. The compassion and loyalty from the good guys and the evil plotting (wants everyone to die a horrible death), from the bad guys, keeps your teeth grinding. The action, non-stop running and fight scenes are breathtaking. Hunted is one enjoyable ride from start to finish. Yes, you will need a breather halfway through, but it's heart thumping and adrenaline spiking. You will thank me for the heads up. Get ready to have some fun :)!

You're Welcome!

[The Fearless Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review:

Gripping. Thrilling. Unforgettable.

I can’t even begin to describe how incredible this book is. Abi and Missy have truly outdone themselves. I picked up Branded not realizing what I was getting myself into. And now after reading Hunted, I know that I’ll be in this until the very end!

I absolute adored Hunted. It’s full of bone-chilling plot twists and astounding realizations that kept me up all night long. Some of the conflicts and situations that Lexi had to go though, I couldn’t even imagine them happening. It’s like what I was reading stepped straight out of my worst nightmares, and I couldn’t wait to see what Lexi would do next! But where Hunted had its compelling moments, it was also had times where I was laughing so hard it made my gut hurt. Zeus had me cracking up. Even though Zeus walks around on all fours, is covered in fur, and occasionally sniffs his butt, he constantly reminded me that there’s still some good in the dark world Abi and Missy profoundly created. I loved the balance that Abi and Missy fabricated between action and humor. With both of these elements, they’ve created a show-stopper of epic proportions, and I couldn’t have asked for more from these remarkable authors.

With the action of The Hunger Games and the suspense of The Murder Complex, Hunted will keep readers on the edge of their seats, and will leave them with wanting more! I highly recommend this one if you like an action-packed dystopian full of romance, sacrifice, astounding realizations, and unique plot twists. With an unexpected ending, Hunted has captured my attention. I can’t wait to see what will happen next!

[Novels On The Run · Rating 4 out of 5]

BOOK REVIEW by Michelle 1st May 2015:

RATING: 4 COLE & ZEUS STARS

I received a paperback for an honest review and I LOVE this cover art. I kept flipping over to ogle Cole.

He is gorgeous on the cover.

WOW!

Talk about action and bullets flying.

The start of Hunted is really cool. Visually I was wowed with the action scene and saw it all so well in my head.

Zeus is quite the side kick in this instalment. He really does come with his own star personality.

Branded was such an exceptional debut read for me from these ladies with Wilson being such a villain and all the cast. I mean, truly his character is so well written.

I would have loved Wilson to have made more of an appearance in this instalment because he really does command my attention. I feel like he is calling out to me and not Lexi. I feel like I have to watch my own back. He really is a very wicked villain and one that stays in my mind.

The Hole is written so well with all the smells and horror.

There is a scene that did rock me a bit and I am still unsure how to process it, because it is written very well and I did see the horror of it happen right before my reading eyes. It’s a lot to be asked of a person and me being me, thinks of a more humane way.

I gave this instalment a very solid four stars and look forward to Liberated and what the ladies have to expose.

I will say I truly LOVED the cliffie and thought it was BRILLIANT because I so was not expecting that. It really makes me want Liberated that much quicker.

These two authors are going to go far with this series.



Michelle

[Nadine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hunted grips you straight from page one and doesn't let go. It's fast paced and filled with action, humour, romance and even a few tears. Crammed full with plot-twists you'll be unable to put it down.

The characters, especially Lexi, have grown so much since the first book.

Unlike many sequels Hunted manages to be just as good, if not better, than Branded. Once again Abi and Missy have written an incredible book that will leave you wanting more.

Also don't forget to grab a box of tissues when you buy your copy because you'll need them.

[Naifsalem · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I marked this as read it was before it released since I was lucky to be a beta reader, but when I scanned it it took my review away!
Hunted was a fantastic, action packed, swoon worthy continuation of the sinners series by Kalicicki and Ketner! Very action packed, great read for any age. The story was captivating keeping me wanting more! Can not wait for Liberated!

[BooksCastleIgnite · Rating 4 out of 5]

wow!! wow!! wow!!! I'm still in shock and processing everything. enjoy the book so much can't wait for book 3!! I'm still in grieving mode after finishing the books... all I will say.. get your tissue ready!! lol!!!

[Christine Danielle]

I'M SO EXCITED AND I JUST CAN' HIDE IT!

[Emily]

I WANT TO READ THIS SO SO SO SO MUCH! Ejdsjbdvzjshdvshejsbsvssh. THE FEELS!

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series! I can't wait to see how it ends.

[Val. · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a struggle. I was completely over Lexi. It took me so long to read this because of her character. Nothing really happened in this besides a lot of running, hiding, getting shot at and getting ambushed. The only saving grace was Bill and the very last sentence in the book.

[Beauté De Livres (Vivian Freeman) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hunted is the second book in the Sinners trilogy. The long wait for the Branded follow up was well worth it and once again Ketner and Kalicicki did not disappoint. Ketner and Kalicicki shine as writers, creating the most amazing visuals, allowing the reader to whole heartedly be immersed in this story and connect effortlessly with the fast paced and action packed nature, that is Hunted.

“The air is thick with dust and death.”

Hunted begins with Cole & Lexi living life on the run. There are wanted posters of them and their friends everywhere and it seems that the head of powers at the Hole will not rest until they have captured everyone; especially Lexi. It seems at every turn there is somebody looking for them, with a one track mind focused on capture or death. As Cole and Lexi use all their strength and resources to constantly fight for their freedom, it seems like life is an endless loop of unfortunate events.

As we know the origins of Cole and Lexi’s love story, we also are made aware of the fact that unfortunately the past is a ghost in their relationship. Making it hard to move forward, feel safe and trust one another. Their relationship is dealing with dynamics that are not prevalent in the development of a normal love story and because of this their chemistry and positive and negative tension is heightened intensely throughout the book.

For reasons out of their control we watch Cole, Lexi and gang return back to the Hole, with the hope of finally putting its deranged leaders and followers to an end. With the intention to reignite the resistance and set the sinners in the Hole free, we witness each person put themselves through gruelling suffering and heartache, in order to contribute to the desired outcome of freedom.

With surprises around every corner we follow these amazingly dedicated people into a world of danger, horror and the unknown. And sadly we once again witness deceit, suffering and great loss due to their return to the Hole. The question that readers will be asking is, are they going to make it out of their alive?

Once again Ketner and Kalicicki will leave you on the edge of your seat, impatiently awaiting the next instalment. Your heart will be beating outside your chest as your mind is taken on the most gut-wrenching and fear filled adventures literature has to offer.

“Lexi Hamilton, Lust. In love with Cole Veneti, a former guard. Falsely accused but it no longer matters to me who they think I am. Brands don’t define who we are, you have the power to decide that on your own. I might be damaged but I’m not broken. Believe me, you can overcome anything short of death.”

“Cole Veneti, unbranded but I’ll be damned if I don’t deserve to be branded with every one of the seven sins. Former guard turned resistance member with Zeus, the best dog you’ve ever met. Lexi Hamilton rescued me from the hellish life I was living. I’m sorry for the past but I hope to redeem myself this time around. If we manage to band together and stop hating each other, then we can beat the system. NEVER GIVE UP HOPE.”

[Holly Bryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: I was one of a lucky few to win an ARC in a giveaway from Month9Books. Thank you to the publishers for allowing me to read an early copy. Although I received the copy for free, it in no way affects my rating or review of this book.

The second book in the Sinners series, following BRANDED, HUNTED starts with a bang and literally does not let up in action until it's over ... at which time you're left saying, "Wait...what? What just happened? That's it?? NOOOOO, that can't be it! You can't just leave me hanging like that!!" Oh, yeah. Be prepared for a fairly substantial cliffhanger, which will leave you absolutely starving for book 3, LIBERATED, and I don't know when it comes out but it can't come fast enough.

HUNTED begins 3 months after the events of BRANDED, and Wilson has basically become Commander #3, even though not in name. While there was a lot of action in BRANDED, we also had some down-time / slower parts of the story, especially when Lexi would have memories, when she was working at the hospital, or when all the revolt planning was taking place. In HUNTED, however, it's pretty much a go-go-go thrill ride from page 1! I read this book much faster than I did the first, because of that. Lexi and Cole are essentially forced to return to the Hole (and I'm so glad that the authors gave us a GOOD reason for their doing so, and I didn't find myself irked at their stupidity for going back under some flimsy ruse of a reason), along with Bruno and Grace, and they find an unexpected ally or two back in the Hole who help them in their quest to topple Wilson. I have already told Abi and Missy that they made me have a big fat UGLY CRY, thank you very much -- so prepare yourself for more than one shocking event/revelation along the way! You can do that at the same time you prepare yourself for that cliffhanger ;)

I'd say that the only thing I missed, and that I loved so much in book 1, was the chemistry and sexual tension (or sexy-times, even) between Lexi and Cole -- BUT I know that it kind of had to be that way, for the sake of the story. I mean, it was smart of the authors not to try to force that into the story, because even though I missed it, had it been there I think it would have been kind of jarring due to the situations and settings in which they found themselves. Just not exactly the time you're clamoring to get hot and heavy, if you know what I'm saying. The one time they got close fit quite naturally into the story, in my opinion. So, I applaud their decision not to try to force more Lexi+Cole "action" in there, even if I did miss it a bit!

Basically, if you enjoyed BRANDED, you MUST read HUNTED. Trust me, you want to know what happens next. I applaud the authors for their bravery in pretty much writing without limits...and that's all I'll say about that. I absolutely, positively *cannot wait* until I can get my hands on LIBERATED. Happy reading!

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

...

Hunted is absolutely incredible! Right away you’re thrown back into this collapsing Dystopian world as Lexi and Cole run for their lives. This book is literally breath-taking. There’s so many twists and turns and at times you’re holding your breath, waiting to see the outcome of some shocking new reveal or some action filled scene. It is definitely a page turner! I sat hours straight reading Hunted because I couldn’t get enough. There’s never a dull moment and even though I was filled with so many emotions like happiness, grief, and anger I was constantly entertained.

One of my favorite things about the book was the romance *swoon*. Cole and Lexi feel like realistic characters with REAL feelings and a REAL relationship (despite the running from bad guys and kicking butt together, not every couple gets to do that). I also loved how this Dystopian book is so different from any I’ve ever read. Eventually I found out what’s actually happening in the Hole and I was mind blown. When has that ever happened before? Due to the constant plot-twists, I was left multiple times screaming “Holy crackers!” I LOVE PLOT TWISTS, especially in this book. It was great how the authors managed to string all these different events together and create more than one big secret. I definitely recommend this book to all Dystopian fans out there and I also recommend you keep some tissues by your side while reading. ;)