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The Giving Chronicles #2
Hunted
Nothing is as it seems.
The Giving Season has ended, but the onset of winter hasn’t brought Wren peace. The king is still after her, and he has more reason than ever to want her dead. In possession of magic she shouldn’t have, she’s desperate to flee the capital.
There’s just one person who can help Gabriel Moreau, the Hunter who chased Wren across the country, duty-bound to bring her to justice. Forced to make the most difficult decision he’s ever faced, Gabriel chooses to break his oath and vows anew to protect Wren. Now, he too will be hunted.
Together, Wren and Gabriel race across the kingdom to escape the king’s wrath. But the cost of safety is steep, and life on the run is more dangerous than ever. Even with the Hunter by her side, their bond growing stronger with each obstacle, Wren is all too aware that everything, especially the notion of safety, is a lie.
This is book two in The Giving Chronicles, and it should be read after Given.
The Giving Season has ended, but the onset of winter hasn’t brought Wren peace. The king is still after her, and he has more reason than ever to want her dead. In possession of magic she shouldn’t have, she’s desperate to flee the capital.
There’s just one person who can help Gabriel Moreau, the Hunter who chased Wren across the country, duty-bound to bring her to justice. Forced to make the most difficult decision he’s ever faced, Gabriel chooses to break his oath and vows anew to protect Wren. Now, he too will be hunted.
Together, Wren and Gabriel race across the kingdom to escape the king’s wrath. But the cost of safety is steep, and life on the run is more dangerous than ever. Even with the Hunter by her side, their bond growing stronger with each obstacle, Wren is all too aware that everything, especially the notion of safety, is a lie.
This is book two in The Giving Chronicles, and it should be read after Given.
505 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2026
About the author
Elayna R. Gallea
36 books2,648 followersElayna Gallea lives in beautiful New Brunswick, Canada with her husband and two kids. They have dogs and cats and enjoy touring their beautiful province whenever they can.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 406 reviews
July 10, 2026
This just got better on a whole new level and added more of my favorite things. The world building continues and the plot thickens and becomes even more delicious!!! The tension , slow burn and pining between Wren and Gabriel is just something to savor. The touch her and die vibes get elevated to new heights and I am here for it !! I really love this plot and the lore behind the given slowly being unveiled. Really an exciting read. Enjoying this sooo much !!!
Love a good dual narration. These two were perfect and really embodied this story so well. I was able to get absorbed into the story easily and the flow went well throughout. Tone, pitch and candance were perfect and easy to follow. I listened to this between 1.7 and 2.0 and enjoyed it at any speed.
Love a good dual narration. These two were perfect and really embodied this story so well. I was able to get absorbed into the story easily and the flow went well throughout. Tone, pitch and candance were perfect and easy to follow. I listened to this between 1.7 and 2.0 and enjoyed it at any speed.
March 1, 2026
Review of Advanced Readers Copy
First of all, holy shit. I really enjoyed this book, it took off nicely following the first book, it gave a lot of depth to the characters and showed growth since Given. It had my heart racing at moments and had me so stressed.
I've just finished and I am just staring at the wall just before midnight knowing I have to wait god knows how long for the third book.
I definitely recommend this book and am so grateful for having the opportunity to read it so early.
First of all, holy shit. I really enjoyed this book, it took off nicely following the first book, it gave a lot of depth to the characters and showed growth since Given. It had my heart racing at moments and had me so stressed.
I've just finished and I am just staring at the wall just before midnight knowing I have to wait god knows how long for the third book.
I definitely recommend this book and am so grateful for having the opportunity to read it so early.
July 8, 2026
What in the sacrifices is wrong with these two?!
Loved the first book. But this one dragged…… and then the last chapter and everyone trying to sacrifice themselves for the other… dumb, dumb decisions were made!
Loved the first book. But this one dragged…… and then the last chapter and everyone trying to sacrifice themselves for the other… dumb, dumb decisions were made!
February 26, 2026
Elayna has done it again!! Hunted kept me on my toes from the very start. This is definitely a long, drawn-out Enemies to Lovers story, with a little bit of forced proximity and a LOT of yearning!! You’ll be rooting for Gabe and Wren by the end of it for sure! I cannot wait to find out what happens to our Hunter and his little Bird in the next book! (Spice level: 0.5/5)
February 20, 2026
ARC Review-
Firstly I want to say a massive thank you to Elayna and her team for giving me the opportunity for an ARC read. I am writing this review every few chapters so be warned: Spoilers ahead!
Picking up immediately where Given left off, the initial first few chapters of Hunted were fast paced and what a great way to start a book off.
Wren’s hatred of running is something I really enjoyed and related to in the first book and believe me, it’s still there! The relatable humour is still very much present throughout.
Elayna wasn’t kidding when she wrote about the yearning within this book and oh boy. They are YEARNING! In the initial few chapters, when it appears that something is going to happen between Wren and Gabriel, the fact that whenever you think something is about to happen, they’re interrupted! The ‘will they, won’t they’ element is only adding to the yearning further. Some spicy scenes, some closed door ones and honestly, the plot outshines it all.
The book is so beautifully written that I am absolutely now in my book-hangover era.. again. Like I am every time I read one of Elayna’s works. I am in complete and utter awe of Wren and Gabriel and have absolutely fallen in love with these characters, their development and personalities are something I just adore. I love these characters multiple POVs of Wren and Gabe (and another whom shall stay nameless)
The plot twists within this book.. no notes - but I won’t delve into them on fear of ruining the book! But be warned everyone, you’re in for a wild ride!
Roll on the next book!
Firstly I want to say a massive thank you to Elayna and her team for giving me the opportunity for an ARC read. I am writing this review every few chapters so be warned: Spoilers ahead!
Picking up immediately where Given left off, the initial first few chapters of Hunted were fast paced and what a great way to start a book off.
Wren’s hatred of running is something I really enjoyed and related to in the first book and believe me, it’s still there! The relatable humour is still very much present throughout.
Elayna wasn’t kidding when she wrote about the yearning within this book and oh boy. They are YEARNING! In the initial few chapters, when it appears that something is going to happen between Wren and Gabriel, the fact that whenever you think something is about to happen, they’re interrupted! The ‘will they, won’t they’ element is only adding to the yearning further. Some spicy scenes, some closed door ones and honestly, the plot outshines it all.
The book is so beautifully written that I am absolutely now in my book-hangover era.. again. Like I am every time I read one of Elayna’s works. I am in complete and utter awe of Wren and Gabriel and have absolutely fallen in love with these characters, their development and personalities are something I just adore. I love these characters multiple POVs of Wren and Gabe (and another whom shall stay nameless)
The plot twists within this book.. no notes - but I won’t delve into them on fear of ruining the book! But be warned everyone, you’re in for a wild ride!
Roll on the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2026
4.5 stars
To start, we love a recap! I enjoyed how this one continued to build from the first with the world and character building. The narration was excellent again. I loved seeing Wren and Gabriel grow as individual characters and with their relationship. TALK ABOUT A SLOW BURN WITH YEARNING!!! Giggled at Skyler with their subtlety. Would very much like to dive into the next one after that ending!
To start, we love a recap! I enjoyed how this one continued to build from the first with the world and character building. The narration was excellent again. I loved seeing Wren and Gabriel grow as individual characters and with their relationship. TALK ABOUT A SLOW BURN WITH YEARNING!!! Giggled at Skyler with their subtlety. Would very much like to dive into the next one after that ending!
July 1, 2026
Thank you to the author for this advanced copy.
4.25⭐️
I enjoyed this one more than the first book but it did get a little slow in the middle. I loved Wren and Gabriel and their relationship development. More answers were revealed and that ending was devastating. Can’t wait for the next one!
4.25⭐️
I enjoyed this one more than the first book but it did get a little slow in the middle. I loved Wren and Gabriel and their relationship development. More answers were revealed and that ending was devastating. Can’t wait for the next one!
Did Not Finish
July 2, 2026DNF @ 29%
Book one didn't progress with the plot until the very very ending. Almost 30% into this book and nothing has progressed either. This is another reminder for me to not request ARCs/ALCs if I haven't read the first book.
Oh except she's being hunted. Again. Just by someone else now. I'm not sticking around.
Thank you Podium Entertainment for this ALC. My thoughts are entirely my own.
DNF date: 7/2/26, Release date: 7/7/26
Book one didn't progress with the plot until the very very ending. Almost 30% into this book and nothing has progressed either. This is another reminder for me to not request ARCs/ALCs if I haven't read the first book.
Oh except she's being hunted. Again. Just by someone else now. I'm not sticking around.
Thank you Podium Entertainment for this ALC. My thoughts are entirely my own.
DNF date: 7/2/26, Release date: 7/7/26
July 7, 2026
Thank you to Podium Entertainment for the gifted ALC of Hunted; it was phenomenal! Sean Masters and Lily Drake flawlessly duel-narrate in this book, so if you are an audiobook person, this is one you do not want to miss.
Book Two picks up immediately where Given leaves off, so you'll definitely want to read Book One first. Wren is still on the run and uncovering more of the king's secrets. The hunter, Gabriel, is now being hunted after breaking his oath to help Wren flee. We know from Book One that there is an undeniable pull between Wren and Gabriel; the YEARNING factor in this series is intense, and now we get to see them explore that connection in every possible way with a sprinkle of spice. These two learn so much about themselves, and one another, with a little help from a rebel group they meet along the way. Of course Elayna R. Gallea loves to leave us hanging with a devastatingly good cliffhanger ending, so I’ll just be here waiting for book 3 to drop.
Book Two picks up immediately where Given leaves off, so you'll definitely want to read Book One first. Wren is still on the run and uncovering more of the king's secrets. The hunter, Gabriel, is now being hunted after breaking his oath to help Wren flee. We know from Book One that there is an undeniable pull between Wren and Gabriel; the YEARNING factor in this series is intense, and now we get to see them explore that connection in every possible way with a sprinkle of spice. These two learn so much about themselves, and one another, with a little help from a rebel group they meet along the way. Of course Elayna R. Gallea loves to leave us hanging with a devastatingly good cliffhanger ending, so I’ll just be here waiting for book 3 to drop.
May 13, 2026
Gabriel and Wren’s story keeps going in this book, but this time they have to work together instead of being enemies. The first book focused more on Wren running from Gabriel, but now they are both running from the King. We also get to see a lot more character growth from both of them.
This book is full of action and danger, so it never gets boring. We also finally learn more about the Given powers and why the King sacrifices them, which answered a lot of questions from book one.
This book is full of action and danger, so it never gets boring. We also finally learn more about the Given powers and why the King sacrifices them, which answered a lot of questions from book one.
June 12, 2026
So this is book 2 of the giving chronicles, you must read them in order or it will not make sense. This books picks up right after the end of Given with our two main characters Wren and Gabriel. This series is a slow burn, enemies to lovers (he was hunting her in book 1). I normally don’t appreciate slow burn but I enjoyed this one a lot. The dynamics between Wren and Gabriel shift a lot from Given to Hunted, we start with him hunting her down to be given as a gods blessed, to him now protecting her from the king. I love the tension between them and all the little awkward moments as they try to figure out what is going on around them as well as between them. You get some action with your romance as well as a whole new set of characters who I loved. I would definitely recommend this book if you like slow burn romantasy. 4.5 stars
July 13, 2026
Now that is an epic Romantasy, we got yearning, fated mates, self discovery, an evil king, a dashing hero and a powerful FMC. One horse which turns into one bed!?! This book checks all the boxes. I had a feeling with how book 1 (Given) ended that this book was going to hit the ground running and it didn't disappoint. Sadly now I have to wait, probably not patiently for book 3.
July 10, 2026
2.5 ⭐️ I was really looking forward to this book because I really enjoyed Given. I picked up Given as a light easy read while on a trip and was super surprised at how well I liked the world and the FMC! Hunted was just… repetitive. I feel like even at 80% there had been 2 big plot points and the rest was very surface level, very redundant inner monologue and dialogue from the FMC and MMC. I do like how the book is dual POV, but I found the romance was very ‘tell not show’ and had a hard time buying into the yearning because their conversations were a bit… dry? I definitely did not find the romance interesting enough for the rest of the plot to take such a back seat. Anyways, I chose to DNF at 80% because I know there’s a cliffhanger. I will probably read the rest of this and book 3 when it comes out.
June 25, 2026
3.75⭐️
✨Thank you so much to Podium Audio for the ALC!!✨
In a shocking turn of events, I actually read two books in the same series back to back 🙌🏻😂
Hunted is the second book in what I assume will be a trilogy! It was still a good time, with some good action scenes and the continuation of our MC’s love story.
Overall, I did think this one suffered from “second book filler syndrome”. It sets up the next one so well, but didn’t really do a whole lot in the middle. There were quite a few lulls where the plot was dragging. But I still really like Wren and Gabe and where they end up relationship wise by the end of the book! I also liked learning about their world and magic a little more, it helped to give some context to what has happened and will happen in the last book.
There were a few little time jumps throughout the middle of the book that I didn’t love. Although I understand why, I feel like we missed the connection that Wren makes with the Rebels. She meets Skylar and then a chapter or two later, they’re best friends. It just felt rushed and inauthentic. As someone who LOVES a found family trope, I was sad we missed this connection.
After the ending of this one (what a whirlwind!) I’ll most likely be picking up book 3 when it’s out!
The audio with Sean Masters and Lilly Drake was fantastic, I highly recommend listening for the duet audio and excellent performance by these two!
✨Thank you so much to Podium Audio for the ALC!!✨
In a shocking turn of events, I actually read two books in the same series back to back 🙌🏻😂
Hunted is the second book in what I assume will be a trilogy! It was still a good time, with some good action scenes and the continuation of our MC’s love story.
Overall, I did think this one suffered from “second book filler syndrome”. It sets up the next one so well, but didn’t really do a whole lot in the middle. There were quite a few lulls where the plot was dragging. But I still really like Wren and Gabe and where they end up relationship wise by the end of the book! I also liked learning about their world and magic a little more, it helped to give some context to what has happened and will happen in the last book.
There were a few little time jumps throughout the middle of the book that I didn’t love. Although I understand why, I feel like we missed the connection that Wren makes with the Rebels. She meets Skylar and then a chapter or two later, they’re best friends. It just felt rushed and inauthentic. As someone who LOVES a found family trope, I was sad we missed this connection.
After the ending of this one (what a whirlwind!) I’ll most likely be picking up book 3 when it’s out!
The audio with Sean Masters and Lilly Drake was fantastic, I highly recommend listening for the duet audio and excellent performance by these two!
July 14, 2026
"Hunted," by Elayna R. Gallea is the second book in "The Giving Chronicles" series. This book jumps right into things where "Given" leaves off - in the tunnels below the palace, as Wren is trying to escape with her sisters. After summoning magic she isn't supposed to have, and wasn't aware she *did* have until it leveled the king's guards, Wren needs to escape, and quickly. The only person that can help her, is the very one that has been hunting her up until this point: Gabriel. Feelings and loyalties shift as The Hunter breaks his oath to the king, and vows to protect Wren. They embark on a chaotic race across the kingdom with danger at every turn.
I'm rating this a 3.5 ⭐ rounded up to 4.
What to expect:
✨Romantasy
⚔️Enemies to reluctant allies to lovers
✨Only one horse
⚔️"I'll protect you"
✨Wound tending
⚔️Slow burn
✨Touch her and ☠️
⚔️Groveling
✨Fated mates
I rated this book higher than the first book for several reasons - one of which was because, even though they were still basically running for the entire book, there were more unique situations/happenings and discoveries along the way than in the first book. The pacing was a bit off, and there was a *lot* of repetition, and weird decisions that didn't make sense But overall, I did enjoy this book and will likely keep reading the series as subsequent books are released!
I enjoyed finding out more about the Blessed, and the King's perspective/point of view, and overall definitely had fun reading this book, so if you're a fan of hunter/hunted, slow-burn romantasy books with lots of wound tending and some groveling thrown in there, then take a look!
Thank you to the author for the eARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I'm rating this a 3.5 ⭐ rounded up to 4.
What to expect:
✨Romantasy
⚔️Enemies to reluctant allies to lovers
✨Only one horse
⚔️"I'll protect you"
✨Wound tending
⚔️Slow burn
✨Touch her and ☠️
⚔️Groveling
✨Fated mates
I rated this book higher than the first book for several reasons - one of which was because, even though they were still basically running for the entire book, there were more unique situations/happenings and discoveries along the way than in the first book. The pacing was a bit off, and there was a *lot* of repetition, and weird decisions that didn't make sense But overall, I did enjoy this book and will likely keep reading the series as subsequent books are released!
I enjoyed finding out more about the Blessed, and the King's perspective/point of view, and overall definitely had fun reading this book, so if you're a fan of hunter/hunted, slow-burn romantasy books with lots of wound tending and some groveling thrown in there, then take a look!
Thank you to the author for the eARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 17, 2026
Book two in the series. I had an ALC from podium and it was a duet narration which was awesome. I really appreciate the duet. It's like 2-3 chili pepeprs.
In this book Gabe and Wren go on the run. So much unravels and everything they think they know is wrong. And just when they think it has been the worst the worst comes. Luckily they end up in the rebels and meet some new people. Their bond strengthens. But just like in Wrens life just when it gets good, the cliffhanger ending kills ya.
My only real gripe with the book is the slow burn is almost agonizing. When they finally are intimate its like FINALLY. There is a lot of working on the relationship and her magic. One big fight then the cliffhanger.
However, I did enjoy the deep dive into the relationships to include the new friends. Overall I enjoyed the continuation of the story and look forward to seeing what happens next. Also the audio is so good that I will only listen to it.
Thank you to Podium and author for the ALC.
In this book Gabe and Wren go on the run. So much unravels and everything they think they know is wrong. And just when they think it has been the worst the worst comes. Luckily they end up in the rebels and meet some new people. Their bond strengthens. But just like in Wrens life just when it gets good, the cliffhanger ending kills ya.
My only real gripe with the book is the slow burn is almost agonizing. When they finally are intimate its like FINALLY. There is a lot of working on the relationship and her magic. One big fight then the cliffhanger.
However, I did enjoy the deep dive into the relationships to include the new friends. Overall I enjoyed the continuation of the story and look forward to seeing what happens next. Also the audio is so good that I will only listen to it.
Thank you to Podium and author for the ALC.
April 15, 2026
I will start this review by saying I was provided an e-ARC in exchange for this review. Thank you so much to Elayna and her team for allowing me to read yet another of her books early, it’s such an honour.
I loved this book. It constantly had me wanting to skip ahead to find out what happens. I cried in bed at 3am while I read this book. I procrastinated finishing it because I didn’t want it to end.
I enjoy this story more than I enjoyed the first book, Given. First of all, way less running. The relationships develop beautifully between the characters are the story unfolds, giving me the context that I lacked. It made me fall in love with them, and want to be apart of this world. It was a great escape.
A story of what the power of love is truly capable of, indeed.
Now I mourn the end and patiently wait for the next book.
I loved this book. It constantly had me wanting to skip ahead to find out what happens. I cried in bed at 3am while I read this book. I procrastinated finishing it because I didn’t want it to end.
I enjoy this story more than I enjoyed the first book, Given. First of all, way less running. The relationships develop beautifully between the characters are the story unfolds, giving me the context that I lacked. It made me fall in love with them, and want to be apart of this world. It was a great escape.
A story of what the power of love is truly capable of, indeed.
Now I mourn the end and patiently wait for the next book.
July 4, 2026
Book one walked so Hunted could run. The character depth and growth I was searching for? Delivered! Wren is THRIVING. I lived for watching her learn, and adapt while her world does backflips around her. Bad ass female main-character energy: unlocked.
And Gabriel… Watching him soften, let people love him, and actually find his community? Fulfilled.
And his Father, this king be damned; needs to get a fucking life.
This fantasy world is fresh and fun. Its unique elements that hooked me in book one are even better here. The writing is stronger and exactly the vibe I was waiting for.
Knew we weren’t getting a happy-ever-after with book three coming but wow, now I’m impatient for the next one!
Thank you Elayna R. Gallea for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
And Gabriel… Watching him soften, let people love him, and actually find his community? Fulfilled.
And his Father, this king be damned; needs to get a fucking life.
This fantasy world is fresh and fun. Its unique elements that hooked me in book one are even better here. The writing is stronger and exactly the vibe I was waiting for.
Knew we weren’t getting a happy-ever-after with book three coming but wow, now I’m impatient for the next one!
Thank you Elayna R. Gallea for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2026
Elayna really knows how to get you at the end! This one was a bit slower than the first book, in my opinion. It was more about Gabe trying to find a safe place for Wren and them working on the relationship building between them. Which, I enjoyed, but I am definitely looking forward to the next book because I feel like it should have a bit more action to it with the way this one ended. I think Wren is going to master her powers a bit more and come to her man’s rescue! 🤞I received an ARC of this book and am willingly giving my honest review. Thank you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2026
2.5 ⭐ Why is this a trilogy?! 😩 This book was disappointing to read after the first book. So drawn out when it didn't need to be.
How many times did I have to read "I should hate him" or "drawn to him", "like a pull".
Not every fantasy book needs to have mates or bonds!! Just let people be attracted to each other!
I'm going to need a TL;DR for book 3 because I can't put myself through this again.
How many times did I have to read "I should hate him" or "drawn to him", "like a pull".
Not every fantasy book needs to have mates or bonds!! Just let people be attracted to each other!
I'm going to need a TL;DR for book 3 because I can't put myself through this again.
August 1, 2026
Pretty repetitive, felt like I read the same lines over and over again. I loved the way he yearned for her the whole book it was truly beautiful. But I was so over reading the same thing over and over that I started a tv show just to avoid reading the last few chapters of the book, I just was so over it. The ending was predictable and I probably won’t read the third book. However, their love truly is so cute
March 24, 2026
Thank you so much for the opportunity to ARC read the second part of Wren and Gabriel’s story! It was so amazing! The adventure, the romance, the twists, THE ENDING!!! Oh, I can’t wait for book three!
July 16, 2026
2.5- was repetitive and boring a bit
August 7, 2026
There’s so much potential in the world and the magic system, and I want MORE of it.
Okay, I enjoyed this book. I really did. BUT… I have thoughts. 😂
At times, I honestly felt like the story was being stretched out purely so we could have a trilogy. There were conversations, thoughts, emotions, and even entire scenes where I felt like I was reading the same thing over and over again. The whole forgiveness situation especially had me thinking, okay, we get it… can we move on now? 😅
And then there was Gabriel revealing his identity. Wren closes herself off, then suddenly opens up again seemingly from one touch to the next. I was a little confused by the emotional whiplash. There were quite a few moments where it felt like the author wanted the characters to move forward with the story, but also needed to slow everything down enough to fill another book.
HOWEVER…
THE REBELS. 👏🏼
THE MAGIC. 👏🏼
THE ROMANCE. 👏🏼
Those parts? Loved them.
I really enjoyed watching Wren learn to understand and control her abilities. Seeing Gabriel rebuild his understanding of who he is, what he knows, and where he fits into everything was also one of my favourite parts of the book. There’s so much potential in the world and the magic system, and I want MORE of it.
And the rebels? Give me more. Immediately. 😂
Despite my frustrations with the pacing and repetition, I’m definitely going to be keeping an eye out for book three because I need to know where all of this is going.
My only real request for the next book:
MORE ACTION. LESS CIRCLING THE SAME CONVERSATION FOR 47 PAGES. 😂
I'm ready for Wren to unleash her powers, the rebels to cause absolute chaos, Gabriel to outsmart the king, and for the plot to actually MOVE.
Four stars from me. I enjoyed the ride… I just wish it had moved a little faster
Okay, I enjoyed this book. I really did. BUT… I have thoughts. 😂
At times, I honestly felt like the story was being stretched out purely so we could have a trilogy. There were conversations, thoughts, emotions, and even entire scenes where I felt like I was reading the same thing over and over again. The whole forgiveness situation especially had me thinking, okay, we get it… can we move on now? 😅
And then there was Gabriel revealing his identity. Wren closes herself off, then suddenly opens up again seemingly from one touch to the next. I was a little confused by the emotional whiplash. There were quite a few moments where it felt like the author wanted the characters to move forward with the story, but also needed to slow everything down enough to fill another book.
HOWEVER…
THE REBELS. 👏🏼
THE MAGIC. 👏🏼
THE ROMANCE. 👏🏼
Those parts? Loved them.
I really enjoyed watching Wren learn to understand and control her abilities. Seeing Gabriel rebuild his understanding of who he is, what he knows, and where he fits into everything was also one of my favourite parts of the book. There’s so much potential in the world and the magic system, and I want MORE of it.
And the rebels? Give me more. Immediately. 😂
Despite my frustrations with the pacing and repetition, I’m definitely going to be keeping an eye out for book three because I need to know where all of this is going.
My only real request for the next book:
MORE ACTION. LESS CIRCLING THE SAME CONVERSATION FOR 47 PAGES. 😂
I'm ready for Wren to unleash her powers, the rebels to cause absolute chaos, Gabriel to outsmart the king, and for the plot to actually MOVE.
Four stars from me. I enjoyed the ride… I just wish it had moved a little faster
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review.
Holy roller-coaster ride!! Wow, just wow. I love Wren & Gabe. I don't even know where to begin, I love the dynamic, the story telling and the spice is just enough to keep you going. The ending uggg! I'm just like what!?! How!?! Naturally now we have to wait for book 3 to find out what happens!!!
Holy roller-coaster ride!! Wow, just wow. I love Wren & Gabe. I don't even know where to begin, I love the dynamic, the story telling and the spice is just enough to keep you going. The ending uggg! I'm just like what!?! How!?! Naturally now we have to wait for book 3 to find out what happens!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was thrilled to be chosen as an ARC reader for this book, Elayna is one of those authors where I devour her words whilst worrying that the end of the book is fast approaching, but I can't bring myself to slow down! I've read everything shes published. The book starts where book 1 (Given) ends, and keeps the pace, I felt connected to the main characters and invested in how their story's were developing... I REALLY need book 3 because this ended leaving me with questions and worries about their fates!!
July 18, 2026
Omg the way she left me on read lol
Did Not Finish
July 15, 2026I thought book 1 was an enjoyable read though not life changing. I liked the chase and the main characters.
In this book, Gabriel and Wren are on the run together. I got to 27% and I started 3 weeks ago. I usually take 2-3 days to finish a book. My main reason for not wanting to continue is that I find the inner monologue repetitive.
« What is this pull between us? »
« I should hate him, but I don’t »
« Something about how they find each other so hot »
« What is wrong with me? »
« Gods-blessed » (that one is overused. Blessed is used 149 times, mostly in Gods-blessed)
I don’t mind characters pining for each other, but this just seems like it’s 80% of the focus. The story still moves along nicely, but the repetition is too much for me.
I still think you should give it a chance if you enjoyed book 1. I seem to be the odd one out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of ARC
This is a 2.5 ⭐️ read for me.
I reread Given before diving into this sequel.
I'm really gripped by the plot and concept, but for me there's some things missing in the execution that make this a really frustrating read.
First things first. I'm here for the romance and I was able to get behind Wren and Gabriel's love story. However, this is a considerably long book that was marketed as a slow burn romance full of yearning, when in reality I didn't understand why the couple waited until 80% into the book to consummate their love. From the beginning they have strong feelings for each other, there's forced proximity and plenty of opportunity, Wren isn't made out to be a maiden waiting for one's true love... so why draw it out for 80% of the book? I mean, they clearly want to do it!!! It didn't make sense to me.
That brings me to my next point. For such a long book, nothing much happens other than Wren and Gabriel not getting together. Until the last 20% of the book where they get together and a cliff hanger for the next book is introduced.
Some final remarks...
- regardless of the descriptive intimate scenes and the random f-bombs thrown in for good measure, this does read more like YA. I personally don't have an issue with this
- for fantasy lovers, the magic system takes a back stage. And I mean really far back...
- there was a general lack of complexity in world building, in character building, in plot devices
I really wanted to love this book and series more 💔
This is a 2.5 ⭐️ read for me.
I reread Given before diving into this sequel.
I'm really gripped by the plot and concept, but for me there's some things missing in the execution that make this a really frustrating read.
First things first. I'm here for the romance and I was able to get behind Wren and Gabriel's love story. However, this is a considerably long book that was marketed as a slow burn romance full of yearning, when in reality I didn't understand why the couple waited until 80% into the book to consummate their love. From the beginning they have strong feelings for each other, there's forced proximity and plenty of opportunity, Wren isn't made out to be a maiden waiting for one's true love... so why draw it out for 80% of the book? I mean, they clearly want to do it!!! It didn't make sense to me.
That brings me to my next point. For such a long book, nothing much happens other than Wren and Gabriel not getting together. Until the last 20% of the book where they get together and a cliff hanger for the next book is introduced.
Some final remarks...
- regardless of the descriptive intimate scenes and the random f-bombs thrown in for good measure, this does read more like YA. I personally don't have an issue with this
- for fantasy lovers, the magic system takes a back stage. And I mean really far back...
- there was a general lack of complexity in world building, in character building, in plot devices
I really wanted to love this book and series more 💔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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