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The Giving Chronicles #2
Hunted: An Epic Romantasy: The Giving Chronicles, Book 2
All bets are off when the man sworn to hunt a runaway woman reverses course to protect her from the forces against them in this slow-burn sequel to
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.
And 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.
Narrated in duet style.
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.
And 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.
Narrated in duet style.
Audible Audio
Published July 7, 2026
About the author
Elayna R. Gallea
35 books2,559 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 376 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.
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!
July 9, 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!
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.
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
May 17, 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.
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 20, 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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Review of advance copy
Absolutely loved Hunted, the second installment of the Giving Chronicles.
Elayna has an amazing storytelling ability that keeps you captivated from the first page.
The tension, the slow burn, the never ending torture Wren must endure, it's deliciously addictive.
I cannot wait for book 3, although Im not sure my heart will be able to take it
Elayna has an amazing storytelling ability that keeps you captivated from the first page.
The tension, the slow burn, the never ending torture Wren must endure, it's deliciously addictive.
I cannot wait for book 3, although Im not sure my heart will be able to take it
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hunted is book 2 in the Giving Chronicles by Elayna R. Gallea. I'll do my best to make a spoiler free review, but if you haven't read book 1, and want to go into the series completely blind, fair warning before you read on.
Hunted begins right where we left off from book 1 (Given). Since I finished Given, I have been thinking about where Gabriel and Wren’s journey would take us and Gallea MORE than delivered. As the story opens, we find Wren and Gabriel having made some big and potentially very dangerous decisions that have them on the the run from the king and his insatiable thirst for magic. As the duo does their best to evade capture, Wren finds herself very confused and explicably drawn to this man who had just recently been the enemy hunting her. However, she cannot escape the inexplicable draw she feels to Gabriel. Not to mention that she's also trying to figure out what it means to hold an unwieldy power that she never knew she had. You really come to feel for Wren as she struggles with tremendous feelings of guilt, thinking that anyone who she loves or that gets too close to her will be hurt. Of course, do not fear because Gabriel is not one who scares easily and he will not let anyone harm his ‘little bird.’
In book 2, Gaella does such a beautiful job walking through these characters journey of growing trust as all the truths they thought they knew are completely shattered. Through it all, Gabriel is so focused on Wren’s safety. He is fiercely protective and sees Wren for all of who she is. He is determined that the light he sees in her is never dimmed. As a result, it sets the pair on a very intense escape, with Gabriel seeking out a rebel group that he believes can not only offer Wren sanctuary but also teach her more about her magic. I really appreciated the new details Gallea gives us in book 2 about the history of how magic was first introduced into this world and what has set up this conflict for the given and those desperate to hold on to power.
If you are lover of a slow burn, this is the series for you. In book 1, there was definitely attraction and tension for these two enemies. But oh man, book 2 takes us to a whole other level. It is yearning at its best and once the the pay off comes…trust me…it is SOOOO worth the wait! However, I think what is most powerful is the depth of the bond that Gallea creates between Gabriel and Wren. It's really poignant to see how two individuals who have suffered such significant individual trauma at the hands of different individuals in their lives, help each other feel safe enough to share that and more importantly heal from it.
I really also enjoyed some of the newer characters we got to meet, especially as we learn more about the rebel group and their connection to the given (or blessed). Through these characters, both Gabriel and Wren gain perspective on what their world could look like if the given didn’t fear the power of their magic and could live more freely. Wren’s growth throughout the book is really amazing. She really comes into her own. Wren ultimately wants to be someone who is at the forefront of the battle that is coming and to stand by Gabriel’s side through it all.
Of course, things never stay calm, and this is book 2, so just be prepared that Gallea is going to leave us with another cliffhanger that may have you screaming and crying all at once. I cannot wait to see how things come to a climactic conclusion at the end of the series in book 3. If you like a story with adventure, magic, a fight where the oppressed are trying to take back autonomy and throw in a fantastically delicious slow burn, then this is a series for you. Oh yes, and did I mention it has one bed AND one horse…yes please! Not to mention some of my other favorite microtropes like he teaches her to fight and hidden identities. So what are you waiting for???!! Go grab your copy now!
Hunted begins right where we left off from book 1 (Given). Since I finished Given, I have been thinking about where Gabriel and Wren’s journey would take us and Gallea MORE than delivered. As the story opens, we find Wren and Gabriel having made some big and potentially very dangerous decisions that have them on the the run from the king and his insatiable thirst for magic. As the duo does their best to evade capture, Wren finds herself very confused and explicably drawn to this man who had just recently been the enemy hunting her. However, she cannot escape the inexplicable draw she feels to Gabriel. Not to mention that she's also trying to figure out what it means to hold an unwieldy power that she never knew she had. You really come to feel for Wren as she struggles with tremendous feelings of guilt, thinking that anyone who she loves or that gets too close to her will be hurt. Of course, do not fear because Gabriel is not one who scares easily and he will not let anyone harm his ‘little bird.’
In book 2, Gaella does such a beautiful job walking through these characters journey of growing trust as all the truths they thought they knew are completely shattered. Through it all, Gabriel is so focused on Wren’s safety. He is fiercely protective and sees Wren for all of who she is. He is determined that the light he sees in her is never dimmed. As a result, it sets the pair on a very intense escape, with Gabriel seeking out a rebel group that he believes can not only offer Wren sanctuary but also teach her more about her magic. I really appreciated the new details Gallea gives us in book 2 about the history of how magic was first introduced into this world and what has set up this conflict for the given and those desperate to hold on to power.
If you are lover of a slow burn, this is the series for you. In book 1, there was definitely attraction and tension for these two enemies. But oh man, book 2 takes us to a whole other level. It is yearning at its best and once the the pay off comes…trust me…it is SOOOO worth the wait! However, I think what is most powerful is the depth of the bond that Gallea creates between Gabriel and Wren. It's really poignant to see how two individuals who have suffered such significant individual trauma at the hands of different individuals in their lives, help each other feel safe enough to share that and more importantly heal from it.
I really also enjoyed some of the newer characters we got to meet, especially as we learn more about the rebel group and their connection to the given (or blessed). Through these characters, both Gabriel and Wren gain perspective on what their world could look like if the given didn’t fear the power of their magic and could live more freely. Wren’s growth throughout the book is really amazing. She really comes into her own. Wren ultimately wants to be someone who is at the forefront of the battle that is coming and to stand by Gabriel’s side through it all.
Of course, things never stay calm, and this is book 2, so just be prepared that Gallea is going to leave us with another cliffhanger that may have you screaming and crying all at once. I cannot wait to see how things come to a climactic conclusion at the end of the series in book 3. If you like a story with adventure, magic, a fight where the oppressed are trying to take back autonomy and throw in a fantastically delicious slow burn, then this is a series for you. Oh yes, and did I mention it has one bed AND one horse…yes please! Not to mention some of my other favorite microtropes like he teaches her to fight and hidden identities. So what are you waiting for???!! Go grab your copy now!
July 11, 2026
"Once, I ran from him. Now, I need him."
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
What you'll find in this book:
• Reluctant Allies to Lovers
• Only One Bed
• "I'll Protect You"
• Slow Burn
• Fated Mates
• Only One Horse
• Epic Fantasy
• Hunter x Hunted
• Secrets
• Touch Her and Die
There has yet to be a book written by Elayna that hasn't absolutely consumed me, and Hunted is no exception to this. This sequel to Given only brings us closer to the characters, exponentially expanding the world from the set foundations provided in book one in this trilogy and has a sucker punch of an end that has left me reeling. Above all else Elayna knows how to write a phenomenal cliffhanger that is highly likely to leave you in tears, but this isn't just a testament to the ending written but the entire story. Without falling in love with the characters and becoming emotionally invested the endings wouldn't hit like they do, would be no where near as impactful. This is an excellently written sequel that has left me incredibly excited for the final book in the trilogy, I am beyond intrigued to see where Elayna chooses to take the story next, but one thing I can be sure of is that it will be one heck of a ride.
Throughout the journey of this book it felt like the pace shifted with the characters emotions and situations that they find themselves in, with the book feeling fast paced when they are on the run to the slower fleeting moments of peace where the characters learn more about themselves and eachother. As much as this book focuses on Wren and Gabriel being on the run, this feels like the platform for them to learn what has been hidden from them and so many others, how their quest for safety leads them to find answers to so many of their questions with so many more unanswered. The emotional connection between Wren and Gabriel is complicated, their past and the draw they feel to one another means that they have plenty to work through and I really enjoyed that Elayna doesn't throw us head first into the romance but instead keeps us teetering on the edge of the most tantalising slow burn as the story unfolds. Over the course of this book, Wren and Gabriel become closer, they learn more about one another with moments of tenderness balanced with banter. You can feel the trust growing between them through their words and actions as they slowly come to rely on one another making their connection and romance feel so very satisfying after being so hard fought for.
Sometimes it can feel like in books that characters are thrown in for the sake of it, leaving them feeling inconsequential and forgettable but that is not the chase here, Elayna introduces characters with purpose making them feel key to the story and the other characters. Within this story Elayna strongly develops Wren and Gabriel as characters, further shaping them as they chnage, grow and learn, while also reintroducing some familiar characters and some that are new. This provides a freshness to the story while still showing its roots, not allowing us to forget what we left behind in book one. With stakes heightened and lives literally on the line this book really feels like an epic fantasy story with the continued worldbuilding of this vast world with its intricate lore and magical system that we are still firmly learning about. With twists and turns that will keep you surprised and keep you guessing this book was exactly what I was hoping this sequel would be. As I mentioned at the start of my review the cliffhanger in this book is crazy, and I cannot wait for the final book in the trilogy, after everything that has happened, I'm holding out for the happily ever after.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an e-ARC to read and review early.
Author: Elayna R. Gallea
Series: The Giving Chronicles
Publisher: Podium Publishing
Release Date: July 7th, 2026
Pages: 432
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
What you'll find in this book:
• Reluctant Allies to Lovers
• Only One Bed
• "I'll Protect You"
• Slow Burn
• Fated Mates
• Only One Horse
• Epic Fantasy
• Hunter x Hunted
• Secrets
• Touch Her and Die
There has yet to be a book written by Elayna that hasn't absolutely consumed me, and Hunted is no exception to this. This sequel to Given only brings us closer to the characters, exponentially expanding the world from the set foundations provided in book one in this trilogy and has a sucker punch of an end that has left me reeling. Above all else Elayna knows how to write a phenomenal cliffhanger that is highly likely to leave you in tears, but this isn't just a testament to the ending written but the entire story. Without falling in love with the characters and becoming emotionally invested the endings wouldn't hit like they do, would be no where near as impactful. This is an excellently written sequel that has left me incredibly excited for the final book in the trilogy, I am beyond intrigued to see where Elayna chooses to take the story next, but one thing I can be sure of is that it will be one heck of a ride.
Throughout the journey of this book it felt like the pace shifted with the characters emotions and situations that they find themselves in, with the book feeling fast paced when they are on the run to the slower fleeting moments of peace where the characters learn more about themselves and eachother. As much as this book focuses on Wren and Gabriel being on the run, this feels like the platform for them to learn what has been hidden from them and so many others, how their quest for safety leads them to find answers to so many of their questions with so many more unanswered. The emotional connection between Wren and Gabriel is complicated, their past and the draw they feel to one another means that they have plenty to work through and I really enjoyed that Elayna doesn't throw us head first into the romance but instead keeps us teetering on the edge of the most tantalising slow burn as the story unfolds. Over the course of this book, Wren and Gabriel become closer, they learn more about one another with moments of tenderness balanced with banter. You can feel the trust growing between them through their words and actions as they slowly come to rely on one another making their connection and romance feel so very satisfying after being so hard fought for.
Sometimes it can feel like in books that characters are thrown in for the sake of it, leaving them feeling inconsequential and forgettable but that is not the chase here, Elayna introduces characters with purpose making them feel key to the story and the other characters. Within this story Elayna strongly develops Wren and Gabriel as characters, further shaping them as they chnage, grow and learn, while also reintroducing some familiar characters and some that are new. This provides a freshness to the story while still showing its roots, not allowing us to forget what we left behind in book one. With stakes heightened and lives literally on the line this book really feels like an epic fantasy story with the continued worldbuilding of this vast world with its intricate lore and magical system that we are still firmly learning about. With twists and turns that will keep you surprised and keep you guessing this book was exactly what I was hoping this sequel would be. As I mentioned at the start of my review the cliffhanger in this book is crazy, and I cannot wait for the final book in the trilogy, after everything that has happened, I'm holding out for the happily ever after.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an e-ARC to read and review early.
Author: Elayna R. Gallea
Series: The Giving Chronicles
Publisher: Podium Publishing
Release Date: July 7th, 2026
Pages: 432
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