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The Chosen One #1
The Chosen One
Girls are a risk college freshman Ainsley Carmichael can't take. Her powerful political family sees her as the Chosen One who will someday be president. Upholding a carefully crafted veneer is second nature until the first day of class when Maya's mysterious gray eyes hold her in thrall.
Ainsley may be out publicly regarding her sexual orientation, but she lives under the shadow of the Carmichael's ancient but shrewd matriarch in this contemporary lesbian romance. The girls pair up for a history project, and it soon becomes clear Maya is hiding something when she cuts their first kiss short by pointing out they come from different worlds.
The privileged world of the Carmichael clan stands in stark contrast to Maya's limited means. Ainsley's sexually fluid, quirky, and carefree cousin helps her investigate, only to discover details of Maya's past are sketchy at best as the suspense builds in this work of LGBT fiction.
Family scandal erupts, making the inevitable truth come out about Maya the Gray. Will Ainsley’s love for the enigmatic girl enable her to break her Carmichael shackles?
Ainsley may be out publicly regarding her sexual orientation, but she lives under the shadow of the Carmichael's ancient but shrewd matriarch in this contemporary lesbian romance. The girls pair up for a history project, and it soon becomes clear Maya is hiding something when she cuts their first kiss short by pointing out they come from different worlds.
The privileged world of the Carmichael clan stands in stark contrast to Maya's limited means. Ainsley's sexually fluid, quirky, and carefree cousin helps her investigate, only to discover details of Maya's past are sketchy at best as the suspense builds in this work of LGBT fiction.
Family scandal erupts, making the inevitable truth come out about Maya the Gray. Will Ainsley’s love for the enigmatic girl enable her to break her Carmichael shackles?
209 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2016
155 people are currently reading
441 people want to read
About the author
T.B. Markinson
70 books1,150 followersT. B. Markinson is an American writer, living in England. When she isn't writing, she’s traveling the world, watching sports on the telly, visiting pubs in England, or taking the dog for a walk. Not necessarily in that order.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
October 22, 2018
Great series!
Enjoyable storytelling with a nice background aspect of both leading ladies because the storyline even venture in showing that certain lesbians can reveal a side of beauty which can come also appear in any form whether someone is rich or poor -- so others should not judge while reading as in today's society and social media have done many times over and over again to someone's preference (bullying). Huge of the author for writing and taking on this storyline and for having these characters not be your typical blonde,blue eyed,tall,slim,auburn hair and green eyes leads --they were just your regular looking two leading ladies (1 of mix-race:-Puerto Rican +) along with the sometimes support of their chaotic families and few issues & problem to go with their love story because it also had it's moment of both fluff and sweetness to the end. A highly recommended series to everyone!
Enjoyable storytelling with a nice background aspect of both leading ladies because the storyline even venture in showing that certain lesbians can reveal a side of beauty which can come also appear in any form whether someone is rich or poor -- so others should not judge while reading as in today's society and social media have done many times over and over again to someone's preference (bullying). Huge of the author for writing and taking on this storyline and for having these characters not be your typical blonde,blue eyed,tall,slim,auburn hair and green eyes leads --they were just your regular looking two leading ladies (1 of mix-race:-Puerto Rican +) along with the sometimes support of their chaotic families and few issues & problem to go with their love story because it also had it's moment of both fluff and sweetness to the end. A highly recommended series to everyone!
August 15, 2018
“The Chosen One” was absolutely delightful on so many levels: as a story of young love, as a story of family pressures and expectations, as a fantastic audiobook thanks to the wonderful narration by Lori Prince, and…for me personally….as a totally unexpected yet very enjoyable reminder of my own family history.
I first noticed “The Chosen One” at about the same time as I decided to listen to Erik Schubach’s “Emily Monroe Is Not The Chosen One”, and wondered whether the plots of a contemporary girl being groomed for political office and a normal girl constantly being mistaken for a look-alike superheroine could possible be similar. Believe or not…they are! But…I digress. Perhaps I’ll explore the similarities when I write a review of “Emily Monroe…”.
MC Ainsley is only 18yo, but because of the pressures she’s grown up with, she is much more mature than a typical university freshman. Likewise, MC Maya, also a freshman though she’s 21, has experienced more drama in life than is usual for her age, and is also quite mature. I point this out because while “The Chosen One” is a very delightful story of first love and young lust, the story doesn’t have the typical teenage YA or NA angst. Oh, there are certainly issues and angst for our MCs, but not of the young immature type.
We experience “The Chosen One” through Ainsley’s POV, and little by little we learn of the intriguing and mysterious Maya The Gray along with Ainsley, her hilariously quirky and devoted cousin Fiona, and Fiona’s lovestruck on-again, off-again boyfriend, the heavy drinking doctor Pat.
Ainsley and Maya have mutual insta-attraction and insta-lust for each other, but family differences quickly get in the way of their budding relationship. Ainsley’s ancestor arrived in the United States around 1652. Although he was an indentured servant from Scotland, essentially a slave, the Carmichaels long ago became part of the American establishment….especially the political establishment. Great things are expected of Ainsley, “The Chosen One”. Maya, on the other hand, is of mixed race heritage, and her chocolate skin, and her meager family resources, is met with disdain by Ainsley’s mother and grandmother. Maya tells Ainsley she feels the past of her ancestors’ slavery every day, whereas no one looks at a Carmichael and thinks of one arriving as a slave.
While differences in their race and income doesn’t bother Ainsley at all, Maya and her mother have a mysterious secret; their past is hidden. Maya’s mystery adds a very nice element to the story. Having been betrayed by a close friend in the past, Ainsley is compelled to dig into Maya’s past, and Ainsley and Maya must explore the role trust plays in love as well as that of lust and like.
Yes, serious issues abound, but the book is so filled with humor during conversations and daily activities, and Lori Prince does such a wonderful job narrating the different characters, that the book is very fast moving and much lighter feeling than you might think from the heavy family issues and the mysterious pasts. I particularly like the imaginary newscaster in Ainsley’s head, often pointing out stupid things she’s said or done!
Speaking of pasts, I really enjoyed many of the comments relating to history, and references to the Carmichaels roles in politics over nearly 365 years of American life. IRL, my earliest immigrant ancestor arrived in the New World in 1630, more than 20 years before that of the fictional George Carmichael, and was one of the founders of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Various ancestors played many roles throughout much of the original Colonies, with the American Revolution, and with the waves of expansion to what is today the American Midwest and the West Coast. As with the Carmichaels, our family has had plenty of interesting characters over the years, but happily the levels of manipulation, adultery, and murder presented in “The Chosen One” greatly exceeds the shenanigans within my own family….well, as far as I’m aware 😉
“The Chosen One” ends, as one would expect for an 18yo and 21yo, with a HFN. Ainsley and Maya have the mutual respect, love and fortitude to one day realize their HEA, but it’s too soon to call that. This book could end here, most of the plot lines were wrapped up, but there could also be a sequel with more issues arising out of Texas, with the new shift in the Carmichael political power structure, and with Fiona and Pat’s love life. If there is, I certainly hope an audiobook version is released quickly!
4.5* for “The Chosen One”, rounded up for the terrific narration, and for making me dig into some family photos and papers I hadn’t looked at for awhile. It’s a fun book with a happy ending and I’ll listen to it again even knowing the answers to the mysteries.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
My rating and my review was not in anyway affected by my having been provided a review copy.
I first noticed “The Chosen One” at about the same time as I decided to listen to Erik Schubach’s “Emily Monroe Is Not The Chosen One”, and wondered whether the plots of a contemporary girl being groomed for political office and a normal girl constantly being mistaken for a look-alike superheroine could possible be similar. Believe or not…they are! But…I digress. Perhaps I’ll explore the similarities when I write a review of “Emily Monroe…”.
MC Ainsley is only 18yo, but because of the pressures she’s grown up with, she is much more mature than a typical university freshman. Likewise, MC Maya, also a freshman though she’s 21, has experienced more drama in life than is usual for her age, and is also quite mature. I point this out because while “The Chosen One” is a very delightful story of first love and young lust, the story doesn’t have the typical teenage YA or NA angst. Oh, there are certainly issues and angst for our MCs, but not of the young immature type.
We experience “The Chosen One” through Ainsley’s POV, and little by little we learn of the intriguing and mysterious Maya The Gray along with Ainsley, her hilariously quirky and devoted cousin Fiona, and Fiona’s lovestruck on-again, off-again boyfriend, the heavy drinking doctor Pat.
Ainsley and Maya have mutual insta-attraction and insta-lust for each other, but family differences quickly get in the way of their budding relationship. Ainsley’s ancestor arrived in the United States around 1652. Although he was an indentured servant from Scotland, essentially a slave, the Carmichaels long ago became part of the American establishment….especially the political establishment. Great things are expected of Ainsley, “The Chosen One”. Maya, on the other hand, is of mixed race heritage, and her chocolate skin, and her meager family resources, is met with disdain by Ainsley’s mother and grandmother. Maya tells Ainsley she feels the past of her ancestors’ slavery every day, whereas no one looks at a Carmichael and thinks of one arriving as a slave.
While differences in their race and income doesn’t bother Ainsley at all, Maya and her mother have a mysterious secret; their past is hidden. Maya’s mystery adds a very nice element to the story. Having been betrayed by a close friend in the past, Ainsley is compelled to dig into Maya’s past, and Ainsley and Maya must explore the role trust plays in love as well as that of lust and like.
Yes, serious issues abound, but the book is so filled with humor during conversations and daily activities, and Lori Prince does such a wonderful job narrating the different characters, that the book is very fast moving and much lighter feeling than you might think from the heavy family issues and the mysterious pasts. I particularly like the imaginary newscaster in Ainsley’s head, often pointing out stupid things she’s said or done!
Speaking of pasts, I really enjoyed many of the comments relating to history, and references to the Carmichaels roles in politics over nearly 365 years of American life. IRL, my earliest immigrant ancestor arrived in the New World in 1630, more than 20 years before that of the fictional George Carmichael, and was one of the founders of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Various ancestors played many roles throughout much of the original Colonies, with the American Revolution, and with the waves of expansion to what is today the American Midwest and the West Coast. As with the Carmichaels, our family has had plenty of interesting characters over the years, but happily the levels of manipulation, adultery, and murder presented in “The Chosen One” greatly exceeds the shenanigans within my own family….well, as far as I’m aware 😉
“The Chosen One” ends, as one would expect for an 18yo and 21yo, with a HFN. Ainsley and Maya have the mutual respect, love and fortitude to one day realize their HEA, but it’s too soon to call that. This book could end here, most of the plot lines were wrapped up, but there could also be a sequel with more issues arising out of Texas, with the new shift in the Carmichael political power structure, and with Fiona and Pat’s love life. If there is, I certainly hope an audiobook version is released quickly!
4.5* for “The Chosen One”, rounded up for the terrific narration, and for making me dig into some family photos and papers I hadn’t looked at for awhile. It’s a fun book with a happy ending and I’ll listen to it again even knowing the answers to the mysteries.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
My rating and my review was not in anyway affected by my having been provided a review copy.
September 19, 2018
This is a very intriguing start of the series «The Chosen One». Although the MCs are young women, 18 and 21 years old, it’s not just a young adult story. With their experiences during childhood, their more grown-up than other in this age.
It’s the story of Ainsley Carmichel, which is grown up and well educated to be the Chosen One, the One who would be the first female president of the United States of America. Her grandmother is the conductor of this whole political game and she orchestrates everything possible and impossible to make sure they will succeed. Nobody outside the Carmichel clan knows about the plan. But after meeting Maya, her new seat neighbor during her freshmen year at the college, everything changes. She falls for her fast and hard. But Maya has some secrets of her own. Are they able to have a relationship despite all the secrets and expectations?
In a book, I really like reading about political intrigues, in contrary to the real life. And despite, that this is fiction, unfortunately, it’s not totally impossible, that in the real world, the political game is like this.
This is a wonderful story about young love, family expectations, political ambitions, mixed-race-relationship, rich and poor. The MCs are both loveable women. They are not perfect but caring and funny girls. Also, the whole secondary characters are greatly developed, especially the quirky and loyal cousin and BFF Fiona.
Recommended to everybody who loves a nice romance and some political intrigues.
I’m now starting on the second book in this series which is out now on Amazon
My rating 4.25 stars
It’s the story of Ainsley Carmichel, which is grown up and well educated to be the Chosen One, the One who would be the first female president of the United States of America. Her grandmother is the conductor of this whole political game and she orchestrates everything possible and impossible to make sure they will succeed. Nobody outside the Carmichel clan knows about the plan. But after meeting Maya, her new seat neighbor during her freshmen year at the college, everything changes. She falls for her fast and hard. But Maya has some secrets of her own. Are they able to have a relationship despite all the secrets and expectations?
In a book, I really like reading about political intrigues, in contrary to the real life. And despite, that this is fiction, unfortunately, it’s not totally impossible, that in the real world, the political game is like this.
This is a wonderful story about young love, family expectations, political ambitions, mixed-race-relationship, rich and poor. The MCs are both loveable women. They are not perfect but caring and funny girls. Also, the whole secondary characters are greatly developed, especially the quirky and loyal cousin and BFF Fiona.
Recommended to everybody who loves a nice romance and some political intrigues.
I’m now starting on the second book in this series which is out now on Amazon
My rating 4.25 stars
September 22, 2018
I'll be honest. I read the blurb and first reaction was 'Jo, not a chance in chuffing hell your gonna enjoy this'. I don't take much interest in politics, too much of it flashed in are faces on the news and social media etc. So why would I want to read about it?
After reading a lot of positive reviews and desperately wanted a change of plot, I decided to give it a chance. And I'm glad i did! The story is interesting... basically she was just conceived to be president, her whole life mapped out for her. Obversely there is politics in the story, but it wrote so well that its not thrown into your face. I loved the characters, which there is quite few of. The MC's are both very like able and you feel the chemistry between the pair from early on in the story. And by the end, your rooting for the pair on to be a solid couple. Its a very sweet read, with a twist at the end that brings the story together.
And of course... you have a bitch of grandmother. Couldn't get the image of Thatcher out of my head ever time grandmother was mentioned.
After reading a lot of positive reviews and desperately wanted a change of plot, I decided to give it a chance. And I'm glad i did! The story is interesting... basically she was just conceived to be president, her whole life mapped out for her. Obversely there is politics in the story, but it wrote so well that its not thrown into your face. I loved the characters, which there is quite few of. The MC's are both very like able and you feel the chemistry between the pair from early on in the story. And by the end, your rooting for the pair on to be a solid couple. Its a very sweet read, with a twist at the end that brings the story together.
And of course... you have a bitch of grandmother. Couldn't get the image of Thatcher out of my head ever time grandmother was mentioned.
January 8, 2022
Political dynasty.
This is my first book written solely by T.B. Markinson. I didn't enjoy it as much as I did with those that she had co-written with Miranda MacLeod. This was meant to be light and humorous, I suppose, but I wasn't able to connect with the main character, Ainsley.
Ainsley is a university student. She comes from a political dynasty, she's rich and has lofty political ambitions which is all fine and good, but it was tiring to be reminded over and over of how she's "the chosen one" in the Carmichael family groomed for higher office. It was just too much. And Ainsley also acts like a teenage boy who is always infatuated with her classmate, Maya. The conversations that surround Ainsley are a little childish and in this case, because Lori Prince uses her usual humour voice to narrate this, made it harder.
While we don't get Maya's POV, Maya is an interesting character. She's a little mysterious and Ainsley tries to uncover her past and that got me curious about her. Maya is also nice and sweet and I like her.
This audiobook was given to me for free at my request and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is my first book written solely by T.B. Markinson. I didn't enjoy it as much as I did with those that she had co-written with Miranda MacLeod. This was meant to be light and humorous, I suppose, but I wasn't able to connect with the main character, Ainsley.
Ainsley is a university student. She comes from a political dynasty, she's rich and has lofty political ambitions which is all fine and good, but it was tiring to be reminded over and over of how she's "the chosen one" in the Carmichael family groomed for higher office. It was just too much. And Ainsley also acts like a teenage boy who is always infatuated with her classmate, Maya. The conversations that surround Ainsley are a little childish and in this case, because Lori Prince uses her usual humour voice to narrate this, made it harder.
While we don't get Maya's POV, Maya is an interesting character. She's a little mysterious and Ainsley tries to uncover her past and that got me curious about her. Maya is also nice and sweet and I like her.
This audiobook was given to me for free at my request and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 7, 2020
I’m slowly but surely going through this author’s back catalogue and somehow missed this audiobook with the narration by Lori Prince. This is book one in The Chosen One series by TB Markinson and it’s right up my street: half political thriller, half sweet romance. A great formula to guarantee hours of enjoyment.
Ainsley Carmichael is in her freshman year at university but her life isn’t like her classmates’. She’s part of the political dynasty of the Carmichaels, and the chosen one to become the US president in the future. Getting involved with other girls isn’t in her cards but when Maya the Gray appears in her history class all bets are off. Soon enough it’s clear to Ainsley that Maya is as attractive as mysterious. What is Maya hiding and will both women be able to explore a relationship together?
This was a fun and entertaining listen. I loved the political intrigue and manipulation that surrounds Ainsley’s family, commanded by her 90-year-old grandmother. The Carmichael family reminded me of the Kennedys, for their prominence in politics and because they were also from Massachusetts. This author is very good at writing characters who are varied, realistic and well fleshed-out. Most of her books feature not only well-written leads but also interesting secondary characters.
Ms. Markinson is a historian and likes to supply the reader with random tidbits of information about former US presidents and historical data but it never feels as info-dump, at least, nor for me (though I majored in Political Science). The story has a part of intrigue around Maya’s mysterious past. This subplot resolution felt a bit rushed and wrapped up too easily but I guess that it might develop further in the second installment of this series.
The audiobook was narrated by Lori Prince who did an excellent job with the good amount of characters, varied in age, accents and gender. I loved her voice for Maya and the self-deprecatory tone for Ainsley whose anti-heroine antics and tendency to get involved in embarrassing situations is epic. Ms. Prince’s playful tone was a good match for this story but she also performed the more emotional moments with ease. I can’t wait to listen to book 2 of this sequel, ‘The Hidden One’. 4.5 stars.
Length: 7 hours, 41 minutes
Ainsley Carmichael is in her freshman year at university but her life isn’t like her classmates’. She’s part of the political dynasty of the Carmichaels, and the chosen one to become the US president in the future. Getting involved with other girls isn’t in her cards but when Maya the Gray appears in her history class all bets are off. Soon enough it’s clear to Ainsley that Maya is as attractive as mysterious. What is Maya hiding and will both women be able to explore a relationship together?
This was a fun and entertaining listen. I loved the political intrigue and manipulation that surrounds Ainsley’s family, commanded by her 90-year-old grandmother. The Carmichael family reminded me of the Kennedys, for their prominence in politics and because they were also from Massachusetts. This author is very good at writing characters who are varied, realistic and well fleshed-out. Most of her books feature not only well-written leads but also interesting secondary characters.
Ms. Markinson is a historian and likes to supply the reader with random tidbits of information about former US presidents and historical data but it never feels as info-dump, at least, nor for me (though I majored in Political Science). The story has a part of intrigue around Maya’s mysterious past. This subplot resolution felt a bit rushed and wrapped up too easily but I guess that it might develop further in the second installment of this series.
The audiobook was narrated by Lori Prince who did an excellent job with the good amount of characters, varied in age, accents and gender. I loved her voice for Maya and the self-deprecatory tone for Ainsley whose anti-heroine antics and tendency to get involved in embarrassing situations is epic. Ms. Prince’s playful tone was a good match for this story but she also performed the more emotional moments with ease. I can’t wait to listen to book 2 of this sequel, ‘The Hidden One’. 4.5 stars.
Length: 7 hours, 41 minutes
April 21, 2019
Not what I was expecting, and I actually like that it wasn’t. I’m really glad I already have book 2 and won’t have to wait to find out what happens next.
May 17, 2016
**Received in exchange for an honest review**
I liked this and the Romeo/Juliet kind of feel. Going in, I was leery of the politic angle, but it was done in a way that made it interesting, informative and added to the struggle between Ains and Maya.
The only thing I didn't like is that the beginning seemed a little slow and the ending a little too fast. I did like the descriptions though. Maya gave off this major mystery vibe that really was working and kept poor Ains on her toes for a minute.
I liked this and the Romeo/Juliet kind of feel. Going in, I was leery of the politic angle, but it was done in a way that made it interesting, informative and added to the struggle between Ains and Maya.
The only thing I didn't like is that the beginning seemed a little slow and the ending a little too fast. I did like the descriptions though. Maya gave off this major mystery vibe that really was working and kept poor Ains on her toes for a minute.
August 25, 2017
This is the first book I've read by the author and I found it to be quite entertaining. It's a good story and also funny. My only complaint: the book ends rather abruptly. I wanted to know how everything worked out Ainsley's family and Maya's father. Sequel anyone?
September 27, 2017
I really enjoyed the first half of the book when the focus was on the central 4 characters. Once more of the extended family got involved I didn't find it as engaging. I'd give the first-half 4-stars and the second half 3-stars.
December 6, 2018
What the scandal this was!!!!
A great political story with unusual characters and a fantastically scandalous plot in a way only politics could pull off.
As with other works by T. B. Markinson, she has managed to create some truly real and unique characters in this story. From Ainsley and Maya who take centre stage, to Agnes and the Carmichael family matriarch. They all have something to make them relatable, realistic and different.
This wonderful story where two girls, from different backgrounds are searching for different levels of normalcy from lives that they aren’t really in control of fascinated me. It was humorous, but at the same time tackling difficulties that surround that very public world of someone in the spotlight, and the secrecy and fear of someone trying to avoid it.
Very cleverly written and unexpected in where it all ends up going, I was hooked on this story and loved the characters so much. They were really endearing and had lots to learn both together and alone. Secrets filled their worlds unknowingly and the manipulation that comes with power was evident and well portrayed when showing just how it was to affect not only Ainsley and her fate, but Maya also.
Just a great read and I thoroughly enjoyed it and can’t wait to read the next in the series. Fantastic!!!
A great political story with unusual characters and a fantastically scandalous plot in a way only politics could pull off.
As with other works by T. B. Markinson, she has managed to create some truly real and unique characters in this story. From Ainsley and Maya who take centre stage, to Agnes and the Carmichael family matriarch. They all have something to make them relatable, realistic and different.
This wonderful story where two girls, from different backgrounds are searching for different levels of normalcy from lives that they aren’t really in control of fascinated me. It was humorous, but at the same time tackling difficulties that surround that very public world of someone in the spotlight, and the secrecy and fear of someone trying to avoid it.
Very cleverly written and unexpected in where it all ends up going, I was hooked on this story and loved the characters so much. They were really endearing and had lots to learn both together and alone. Secrets filled their worlds unknowingly and the manipulation that comes with power was evident and well portrayed when showing just how it was to affect not only Ainsley and her fate, but Maya also.
Just a great read and I thoroughly enjoyed it and can’t wait to read the next in the series. Fantastic!!!
June 26, 2019
Well, against the odds I enjoyed this - but there were moments of "WTF!!" Really?? But went with the flow & brought into the absurdity and suddenly it was a fun read.
January 30, 2019
First one by this author, really enjoyed it overall!
Dinamic characters, compelling and interesting story but I was thrown off by the abrupt ending, it left me hanging but there is a second one to the series which I'll be reading so we'll see (:
Dinamic characters, compelling and interesting story but I was thrown off by the abrupt ending, it left me hanging but there is a second one to the series which I'll be reading so we'll see (:
May 26, 2016
Read in one sitting, can't wait to see what happens next the only one character i had a love/hate is the cousin. She sometimes would just get on my nerve she would be supported and the next she's making fun of Ainsley.
May 29, 2016
A very funny and entertaining story.
February 17, 2022
This was a fun one in most respects. I liked the character, I liked the college coming of age stuff, I liked the politics and the romance was fun. My favorite thing abt the book was Ainsley and Fiona’s cousin relationship though. Lori Price was as good as always and I’ll probably read the sequel.
May 16, 2016
Here we meet Ainsley Carmichael, she is from a very powerful political family and her future has been mapped out for her from before her birth as she is, The Chosen One, eventually one day becoming US president. Ainsley is a Lesbian and so far her relationships have been in her mind and also from reading lots of Lesbian erotica.
In her first uni class, she meets the mysterious Maya, a beautiful woman with beautiful grey eyes. For Ainsley the attraction is instant. As we follow the story and watch their relationship blossom, all is not as it seems as Maya comes from a very different background and has some secrets. Ainsley feels her Grandmother, the family matriarch, would disapprove of the relationship because she will find out that Ainsley is a lesbian. Will Ainsley follow her heart or will she respect the family name?.
This was a bit of a slow starter for me and at times i was hoping it would pick up, this was the first read for me by T. B. Markinson and i did want to continue on to find out the ending. What i liked about this story was that it wasnt your typical girl meets girl, falls in love, the end. It experienced the difficulities that can occur with any relationship and as Ainsley really didnt have much choice in the matter of who she was, it was handled with thought and compassion. I enjoyed visiting the whole Carmichael clan. This for me was a very different read from my normal Genres, but i am glad to have the chance to read it.
*** Thank you to T. B. Markinson for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review ***
In her first uni class, she meets the mysterious Maya, a beautiful woman with beautiful grey eyes. For Ainsley the attraction is instant. As we follow the story and watch their relationship blossom, all is not as it seems as Maya comes from a very different background and has some secrets. Ainsley feels her Grandmother, the family matriarch, would disapprove of the relationship because she will find out that Ainsley is a lesbian. Will Ainsley follow her heart or will she respect the family name?.
This was a bit of a slow starter for me and at times i was hoping it would pick up, this was the first read for me by T. B. Markinson and i did want to continue on to find out the ending. What i liked about this story was that it wasnt your typical girl meets girl, falls in love, the end. It experienced the difficulities that can occur with any relationship and as Ainsley really didnt have much choice in the matter of who she was, it was handled with thought and compassion. I enjoyed visiting the whole Carmichael clan. This for me was a very different read from my normal Genres, but i am glad to have the chance to read it.
*** Thank you to T. B. Markinson for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review ***
November 25, 2018
This was a book I waited to read because I love books about politics. It just fell flat for me. I thought Ainsley was weird and not appealing. I thought Maya was one dimensional in that the author decided a brown person would be the best choice for angst in this book. The racial stuff in this book was incredibly insensitive and offensive. I also did not like the random facts and name dripping. We can all use good too and I don’t need to read random presidential facts. I am a historian and even I found that stuff grating and a little forced. I also figured out the quotes fairly quickly since again I am a historian. But the twist at the end seemed really forced and like the author
Needed to wrap up the story line, but had no idea how to do that. So yeah this was not my favorite and even though I got the second one for free I do not think I’ll be reading it.
Needed to wrap up the story line, but had no idea how to do that. So yeah this was not my favorite and even though I got the second one for free I do not think I’ll be reading it.
April 21, 2017
2,5 rounded up to 3
June 1, 2018
I really enjoyed this story it had a good buildup with a satisfying and heartfelt romance between the main characters Definitely worth reading
July 26, 2018
The only good thing I can say about this book is that the dog, Grover, is very cute. The Chosen One is about the romance between Ainsley and Maya, with a backdrop of Ainsley's politically powerful family and Maya's ~secret past~. Most of the book was just Ainsley and Maya hooking up while Ainsley remained not-at-all to slightly suspicious, and then the ending smacks you with a giant info dump about who Maya really is and how everything is connected, including a character who is important, but not mentioned until the very end of the book. Oh, and he doesn't even show up in any of the scenes. Everything was neatly taken care of so Ainsley and Maya could skip off into the sunset. Where was the conflict?
I honestly think this book would be way more interesting told from Maya's perspective. She's the one with the mystery and high stakes. She's literally on the run from her past and learning to trust again, and Ainsley is just a privileged woman who hasn't encountered a single problem until she met Maya. I truly hated Ainsley. There is a scene where she reveals that she prides herself on being like Abe Lincoln, and she wants to help those in need, and on the next page she's handed a paper by a woman she refers to as "a crazy person," a "freak," and "a drugged-out homeless person." Doesn't sound like the kind of person to help those in need, or even recognize who's in need, to me.
I honestly think this book would be way more interesting told from Maya's perspective. She's the one with the mystery and high stakes. She's literally on the run from her past and learning to trust again, and Ainsley is just a privileged woman who hasn't encountered a single problem until she met Maya. I truly hated Ainsley. There is a scene where she reveals that she prides herself on being like Abe Lincoln, and she wants to help those in need, and on the next page she's handed a paper by a woman she refers to as "a crazy person," a "freak," and "a drugged-out homeless person." Doesn't sound like the kind of person to help those in need, or even recognize who's in need, to me.
December 2, 2016
Interesting tale of love, politics and scandal.
I always buy and enjoy the writings of T. B. Markinson. The Chosen One is another good novel. The story concerns Ainsley and Maya. The two meet in their history of Massachusetts class. Maya is working her way through college and Ainsley is a trust fund freshman from a prominent family. Ainsley is full of political ambition and terrified that living her life will upend a future run for President. Maya's more interested in staying out of the limelight and protecting her privacy.
In a nutshell, this is the central conflict for these characters. Will they be able to cope with the challenges inherent in being together? How far can they bend without breaking when things get tough? I liked how these issues were handled. It is lovely to see how small differences become when compared to similarities.
One quote struck me as so true of the twisted reality of American politics. "They want outsiders who promise the world, even if the promises are false. They want politicians who'll do their best to turn back the clock to the good ol' days when a gas station attendant could support a family of four. Sadly, those days are long gone." In my opinion, the ruling elite sells Joe six pack the American dream and white supremacy. And consequently, nothing changes in the warfare state.
I always buy and enjoy the writings of T. B. Markinson. The Chosen One is another good novel. The story concerns Ainsley and Maya. The two meet in their history of Massachusetts class. Maya is working her way through college and Ainsley is a trust fund freshman from a prominent family. Ainsley is full of political ambition and terrified that living her life will upend a future run for President. Maya's more interested in staying out of the limelight and protecting her privacy.
In a nutshell, this is the central conflict for these characters. Will they be able to cope with the challenges inherent in being together? How far can they bend without breaking when things get tough? I liked how these issues were handled. It is lovely to see how small differences become when compared to similarities.
One quote struck me as so true of the twisted reality of American politics. "They want outsiders who promise the world, even if the promises are false. They want politicians who'll do their best to turn back the clock to the good ol' days when a gas station attendant could support a family of four. Sadly, those days are long gone." In my opinion, the ruling elite sells Joe six pack the American dream and white supremacy. And consequently, nothing changes in the warfare state.
May 13, 2016
**Received in exchange for an honest review**
I really enjoyed this book, it was a bit different than what I was expecting but in a good way. This is a story that is a perfect mix of romance and mystery. Ainsley is a college freshman who has been chosen by her family to one day become the US President. She has a lot of pressure put on her and the last thing she needs is to fall in love. Maya is a girl harboring her own secret. Maya is the complete opposite of Ainsley but that doesn't stop them from falling in love. Unfortunately though, they have to face many obstacles in order to be together. Romance, mystery, lies, and secrets are used to create this wonderful read.
I really enjoyed this book, it was a bit different than what I was expecting but in a good way. This is a story that is a perfect mix of romance and mystery. Ainsley is a college freshman who has been chosen by her family to one day become the US President. She has a lot of pressure put on her and the last thing she needs is to fall in love. Maya is a girl harboring her own secret. Maya is the complete opposite of Ainsley but that doesn't stop them from falling in love. Unfortunately though, they have to face many obstacles in order to be together. Romance, mystery, lies, and secrets are used to create this wonderful read.
February 17, 2018
I can't even touch on the political nature of this book, considering what a dumpster fire american politics are right now. But the ending made me go "wait, that's it?" The ending is awful, there's no sense of closure, which made me like the rest of the novella less. I liked the closeness between the protag and her cousin, and her cousin's dog. The romance was meh, neither the love interest or the protag felt like real people. So yeah, idk, can't really recommend it.
July 14, 2017
Another charming lesbian romance from this reliable author. A story which you could enjoy whatever your identity, or preference, but possibly not for elderly relatives. Not just because of a few racy passages but also because the only older character is a bit 2-dimensional and may be an upsetting portrayal of older people to an older person.
March 1, 2021
Chosen One
I absolutely love the layered characters that T.B. Markinson creates. They are flawed and detailed, but you just can't help but to love them. Both Ainsley and Maya have different experiences but mesh well. They have amazing chemistry. As secrets unfold, they have to decide what they want from each other and out of life. I can't wait to read the next in series.
I absolutely love the layered characters that T.B. Markinson creates. They are flawed and detailed, but you just can't help but to love them. Both Ainsley and Maya have different experiences but mesh well. They have amazing chemistry. As secrets unfold, they have to decide what they want from each other and out of life. I can't wait to read the next in series.
February 12, 2019
Fantastic
If romance and political intrigue are your thing, this story is for you. Ms. Markinson has a way of writing wonderful stories. In a word she is fantastic. I can't wait to read all of her works.
If romance and political intrigue are your thing, this story is for you. Ms. Markinson has a way of writing wonderful stories. In a word she is fantastic. I can't wait to read all of her works.
June 8, 2016
Sweet and funny read. I really hope there is a sequel.
August 2, 2016
3.5 stars - It started out a little iffy for me and I wasn't sure I was going to like it. But then it picked up and I ended up really enjoying it.
October 21, 2016
I really enjoyed Ms. Markinson's writing. This was a quick and entertaining read once I actually sat down to read it.
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