What do you think?
Rate this book
Book two in the Bestselling Series
With a new Chosen coming forward, Shanti has lost sight of her duty. With her plans unraveling, she does the only thing she can think of-- frees her brother and a mysterious stranger from a Graygual camp before heading back to beg for Cayan's aid.
Unfortunately, that stranger was precious to the enemy, guarded by one of the elite. A Superior Officer known as the Hunter, this man always catches his prey, and his focus is now on the elusive, violet-eyed girl and the man she ripped from his hands.
With danger mounting, and one of the best constantly on her heels, Shanti will learn that running will never be enough.
She will unite them with her suffering, and lead them with her love.
With a new Chosen coming forward, Shanti has lost sight of her duty. With her plans unraveling, she does the only thing she can think of-- frees her brother and a mysterious stranger from a Graygual camp before heading back to beg for Cayan's aid.
Unfortunately, that stranger was precious to the enemy, guarded by one of the elite. A Superior Officer known as the Hunter, this man always catches his prey, and his focus is now on the elusive, violet-eyed girl and the man she ripped from his hands.
With danger mounting, and one of the best constantly on her heels, Shanti will learn that running will never be enough.
She will unite them with her suffering, and lead them with her love.
381 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2015
5318 people are currently reading
2520 people want to read
About the author
K.F. Breene
120 books14.4k followersFollow me!
K.F. Breene is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Washington Post, Amazon Most Sold Charts and #1 Kindle Store bestselling author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy and fantasy novels. With millions of books sold, when she's not penning stories about magic and what goes bump in the night, she's sipping wine and planning shenanigans. She lives in Northern California with her husband, two children, and out of work treadmill.
Click FOLLOW for notification of new releases.
Join her mailing list to receive BONUS CONTENT, free stories, and hear about the crazy goings-on of her life. Sign up here ➜ http://bit.ly/KFBContent
Check out her chat group on Goodreads!
K.F. Breene is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Washington Post, Amazon Most Sold Charts and #1 Kindle Store bestselling author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy and fantasy novels. With millions of books sold, when she's not penning stories about magic and what goes bump in the night, she's sipping wine and planning shenanigans. She lives in Northern California with her husband, two children, and out of work treadmill.
Click FOLLOW for notification of new releases.
Join her mailing list to receive BONUS CONTENT, free stories, and hear about the crazy goings-on of her life. Sign up here ➜ http://bit.ly/KFBContent
Check out her chat group on Goodreads!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 520 reviews
September 14, 2025
I needed a break from the paranormals... And I found this glorious asskicking warrior, willing to do whatever it takes to win back their freedom
AND IT HAS A REALLY PRETTY COVER TOO ekkkk !!!
Shanti is an amazing, strong, badass heroine. She was sarcastic, snarky, full of witty one-liners. And is now absolutely a new favorite character of mine
After the dangers of the first novel, Shanti really has some character growth. Now she has doubts that add to complexity of her character WITHOUT taking away from her core values of bravery, intelligence, and badassness
She will always keep fighting !
The group dynamic continued to be the highlight of this series. I friggen loved each and every secondary character. *twas glorious!* Each character was unique with their personality and funny quirks. They argued. They laughed. They fought, with each other and against each other.
We got our drill sergeant Sanders
Then we got dem dorky teenage Cadets ! in training, who are just trying to survive, I mean learn
Rohnan the ideal sidekick. He has his own motives and history that works in TANDEM with his BFF, Shanti, without losing his own individuality
Plus he sassy as fuck, and y’all knowww I love me some banter
The plot?
While book still has plenty of great moment in the group, we didn’t have the same fun banter of the first book because this plot is darker with them now being hunted by the Hunter … and yah okay maybe the name creativity wasn’t as witty as the first but I’ll allow it
Slow burns can be great when they are filled in with DEVELOPMENT, i.e. the characters *still* need to interact with each other. Get to know each other. Have troubles. doubts. Cute moments that are torn apart by bad timing, enemies attacking, etc
The author *brilliantly* incorporated these teasing moments but we are still left waiting for Shanti and Cayan
In the meantime, I guess we’ll just have to accept the brilliant plot twists, action packed fight scenes, and general bloodshed.
For the sequel, the writing has *clearly* improved and I am so goddamn proud of that. Our characters have continued to develop. The plot has built upon the foundations of the first, with a direction for the rest of the series *and plenty of room for plot twists* and best of all the worldbuilding is more concise, and not PiLeS of descriptions
Can’t wait to see where the series will continue !
“We will survive,” Cayan said in a low tone.
He stood next to her, facing the charging horses with a solid frame and flexed muscles. His blue eyes shone with the fierce light of confidence and victory. His Gift surged up and wrapped around him before connecting with hers and igniting the power running through her blood.
“Fuck yes, we will!” Sanders growled.”
AND IT HAS A REALLY PRETTY COVER TOO ekkkk !!!
Shanti is an amazing, strong, badass heroine. She was sarcastic, snarky, full of witty one-liners. And is now absolutely a new favorite character of mine
After the dangers of the first novel, Shanti really has some character growth. Now she has doubts that add to complexity of her character WITHOUT taking away from her core values of bravery, intelligence, and badassness
She will always keep fighting !
The group dynamic continued to be the highlight of this series. I friggen loved each and every secondary character. *twas glorious!* Each character was unique with their personality and funny quirks. They argued. They laughed. They fought, with each other and against each other.
We got our drill sergeant Sanders
“Cadet, if you keep talking like that,” Sanders said in a voice that could cut through a monsoon and still reach the intended ear. “People are going to think God scooped out your brains and replaced them with rainbows and horse shit.”
Then we got dem dorky teenage Cadets ! in training, who are just trying to survive, I mean learn
“Rachie whispered, “Did she just say she was a coward? Oh my god—can you imagine if Sanders admitted something like that? He’d probably kill us all for hearing it.”
“Do you think she’s going to kill us?” Gracas whispered back in a harried voice.”
Rohnan the ideal sidekick. He has his own motives and history that works in TANDEM with his BFF, Shanti, without losing his own individuality
Plus he sassy as fuck, and y’all knowww I love me some banter
“Then we’d better hurry.”
“Yes, Rohnan. Thank you,” she said sarcastically. “That was the one part of my plan I had forgotten about—hurrying.”
The plot?
While book still has plenty of great moment in the group, we didn’t have the same fun banter of the first book because this plot is darker with them now being hunted by the Hunter … and yah okay maybe the name creativity wasn’t as witty as the first but I’ll allow it
Slow burns can be great when they are filled in with DEVELOPMENT, i.e. the characters *still* need to interact with each other. Get to know each other. Have troubles. doubts. Cute moments that are torn apart by bad timing, enemies attacking, etc
“Judging by the rage and desire both pulsing through his mind, he was fighting an impulse to both throw her overboard, and kiss her. It seemed he hadn’t yet decided which action he’d rather choose.
“Act on either of your thoughts, Cayan, and one of us is going swimming. I’ve survived stormy waters. Have you?”
The author *brilliantly* incorporated these teasing moments but we are still left waiting for Shanti and Cayan
In the meantime, I guess we’ll just have to accept the brilliant plot twists, action packed fight scenes, and general bloodshed.
“His people might find men crying a weakness, but she wasn’t of his people, and she would make this big, tough bastard blubber like a baby.”
For the sequel, the writing has *clearly* improved and I am so goddamn proud of that. Our characters have continued to develop. The plot has built upon the foundations of the first, with a direction for the rest of the series *and plenty of room for plot twists* and best of all the worldbuilding is more concise, and not PiLeS of descriptions
Can’t wait to see where the series will continue !
“We will survive,” Cayan said in a low tone.
He stood next to her, facing the charging horses with a solid frame and flexed muscles. His blue eyes shone with the fierce light of confidence and victory. His Gift surged up and wrapped around him before connecting with hers and igniting the power running through her blood.
“Fuck yes, we will!” Sanders growled.”
May 26, 2020
Previous rating: 4.5 stars.
New rating: 8 stars.
So. It seems some of my MacHalo colleagues didn't enjoy this one as much as book 1. Sigh. Is it my fault they have desperately bad taste? Besides, they like reading Neanderthal romances (no, I am NOT making this up) and tentacled alien smut *shudders*, clearly their judgement can't be trusted.
So. Some readers complain about the lack of Shanti + Cayan action here. Newsflash: we are not in this for the lovey-dovey stuff people. We are in this to fight to the death. We are in this for the mental warfare. And the ass-kicking. And the bloodshed. And all the epic shit. No time for lurrrrrrve. Time to prepare for battle. War is coming.
So. It's true, Hunted is not as light-hearted as the first book. It's not as funny. It's much more serious. We get to the heart of the story. Things are not as straightforward as they seemed to be in Chosen. Shanti is not the nearly invincible, unbreakable warrior everyone thought her to be. She is broken and messed up. She is lost. She doesn't know who she is anymore, or what she is supposed to do. And that makes her character feel real. And it adds a lot more depth and complexity to the story. And intensity, too. And you now what? It'spretty freaking awesome.
So. It seems mostfemale readers want to add Cayan to their book boyfriend catalog. Nuh-hu, not me. I'll trade your Cayan for a Sanders and a Rohnan (yes, I know, he's distastefully blonde *gasps* but I'll take him anyway *nearly faints*). Poor Cayan is painfully nice, Sanders and Rohnan definitely beat him in the pain-in-the-ass department. Much more fun to be had there, oh yes. Make haste, make haste, gentlemen, off to the harem you go!
So. Anything else? Apart from the fact that this book is amazingly brilliant and brilliantly amazing you mean? No, not really. Is that a problem? Don't you think that's enough? Sigh. Have I already told you how annoying you are? Sigh. Do you mean to tell me you are still not convinced? Sigh. Do you still doubt the sheer awesomeness of it all? *goes on a sighing strike* Fine. You know what? I have better things to do with my life. So just go and read my original review down there ↓↓↓ and maybe you'll get it. Just maybe. And if you don't? Well maybe (just maybe) it means I was right from the beginning. Maybe (just maybe) you're hopeless. Ha
[May 2015]
Actual rating : 4.5 stars.
You know what? This book is so cool, so entertaining, so action-packed, so yay-I can't put-this-down-omg-why–is-it-finished-already-please-give-me-the-next-instalment-now that I don't even feel like writing a review for it. And I won't even tell you about the story because:
① It's 8.30 am and I've only had one cup of coffee so far.
② You probably haven't read book 1 so there really is no point (great excuse, I know. What can I say, I'm a clever girl) ← for those who don't know, this is called sarcasm
③ It wouldn't do the book justice ← don't you love it when people say that? Sounds much better than: "do you seriously think I'm going to recap the story for you people? Don't you think I have better things to do with my life?!"
④ I'm lazy as hell.
⑤ I'm lazy as hell.
⑥ I'm lazy as hell.
BUT. Me being the lovely, charitable, thoughtful girl that I am , I'm going to tell you a few things about this story. No need to thank me.
✔ Hunted is MUCH BETTER WRITTEN than Chosen. No more messy plot. No more confusing writing. Very cool.
✔ Hunted is so fast-paced you just can't put it down. Yes, I am aware I've already said something very similar to this at the beginning of this review. And your point is?
✔ Hunted is amazing.
✔ Hunted is great.
✔ Hunted is awesome.
✔ Hunted is brilliant.
✔ Hunted is sensational.
✔ Hunted is just plain fantastic.
★★ I think it is fair to say I kind of enjoyed this book ★★
➽ #1 reason why I'm fangirling over this book: Shanti
✔ Because Shanti is amazing.
✔ Because Shanti is great.
✔ Because Shanti is awesome.
✔ Because Shanti is brilliant.
✔ Because Shanti is sensational.
✔ Because Shanti is just plain fantastic.
✔ Because Shanti is.
★★ I think it is fair to say I'm kind of in love with Shanti ★★
➻ Shanti is a warrior.
➻ Shanti kicks serious ass.
➻ Shanti destroys brains.
➻ Shanti is a lethal weapon of mass destruction.
➻ Shanti has a sense of humour.
➻ Shanti is stubborn as hell.
➻ Shanti doesn't take crap from anyone.
➻ Shanti annoys the hell out of everyone.
➻ Shanti is epic.
➻ Shanti is straightforward.
➻ Shanti is broken.
➻ Shanti is complex.
➻ Shanti has a crazy, bastard horse.
➻ Shanti just joined Kate Daniels in my very exclusive Most Awesome Badass Heroines Ever Club. Yes she did.
Am I boring you yet? Yeah, I thought as much. Just wanted to make sure I got the message across. Just let me know if I need to rehash it a little bit. I'd be glad to do it. Anytime. It would be no problem at all. I aim to please. Really. Don't hesitate to ask. It would be my pleasure. I mean it.
There is no publication date for book 3. I think I'm going to die.
· Book 0.5: Forged in Blood ★★★★
· Book 1: Chosen ★★★★★
· Book 3: Shadow Lands ★★★★
· Book 4: Invasion ★★★★★
· Book 5: Siege ★★★★★
· Book 6: Overtaken ★★★
New rating: 8 stars.
So. It seems some of my MacHalo colleagues didn't enjoy this one as much as book 1. Sigh. Is it my fault they have desperately bad taste? Besides, they like reading Neanderthal romances (no, I am NOT making this up) and tentacled alien smut *shudders*, clearly their judgement can't be trusted.
So. Some readers complain about the lack of Shanti + Cayan action here. Newsflash: we are not in this for the lovey-dovey stuff people. We are in this to fight to the death. We are in this for the mental warfare. And the ass-kicking. And the bloodshed. And all the epic shit. No time for lurrrrrrve. Time to prepare for battle. War is coming.
So. It's true, Hunted is not as light-hearted as the first book. It's not as funny. It's much more serious. We get to the heart of the story. Things are not as straightforward as they seemed to be in Chosen. Shanti is not the nearly invincible, unbreakable warrior everyone thought her to be. She is broken and messed up. She is lost. She doesn't know who she is anymore, or what she is supposed to do. And that makes her character feel real. And it adds a lot more depth and complexity to the story. And intensity, too. And you now what? It's
So. It seems most
So. Anything else? Apart from the fact that this book is amazingly brilliant and brilliantly amazing you mean? No, not really. Is that a problem? Don't you think that's enough? Sigh. Have I already told you how annoying you are? Sigh. Do you mean to tell me you are still not convinced? Sigh. Do you still doubt the sheer awesomeness of it all? *goes on a sighing strike* Fine. You know what? I have better things to do with my life. So just go and read my original review down there ↓↓↓ and maybe you'll get it. Just maybe. And if you don't? Well maybe (just maybe) it means I was right from the beginning. Maybe (just maybe) you're hopeless. Ha
[May 2015]
Actual rating : 4.5 stars.
You know what? This book is so cool, so entertaining, so action-packed, so yay-I can't put-this-down-omg-why–is-it-finished-already-please-give-me-the-next-instalment-now that I don't even feel like writing a review for it. And I won't even tell you about the story because:
① It's 8.30 am and I've only had one cup of coffee so far.
② You probably haven't read book 1 so there really is no point (great excuse, I know. What can I say, I'm a clever girl) ← for those who don't know, this is called sarcasm
③ It wouldn't do the book justice ← don't you love it when people say that? Sounds much better than: "do you seriously think I'm going to recap the story for you people? Don't you think I have better things to do with my life?!"
④ I'm lazy as hell.
⑤ I'm lazy as hell.
⑥ I'm lazy as hell.
BUT. Me being the lovely, charitable, thoughtful girl that I am , I'm going to tell you a few things about this story. No need to thank me.
✔ Hunted is MUCH BETTER WRITTEN than Chosen. No more messy plot. No more confusing writing. Very cool.
✔ Hunted is so fast-paced you just can't put it down. Yes, I am aware I've already said something very similar to this at the beginning of this review. And your point is?
✔ Hunted is amazing.
✔ Hunted is great.
✔ Hunted is awesome.
✔ Hunted is brilliant.
✔ Hunted is sensational.
✔ Hunted is just plain fantastic.
★★ I think it is fair to say I kind of enjoyed this book ★★
➽ #1 reason why I'm fangirling over this book: Shanti
✔ Because Shanti is amazing.
✔ Because Shanti is great.
✔ Because Shanti is awesome.
✔ Because Shanti is brilliant.
✔ Because Shanti is sensational.
✔ Because Shanti is just plain fantastic.
✔ Because Shanti is.
★★ I think it is fair to say I'm kind of in love with Shanti ★★
➻ Shanti is a warrior.
➻ Shanti kicks serious ass.
➻ Shanti destroys brains.
➻ Shanti is a lethal weapon of mass destruction.
➻ Shanti has a sense of humour.
➻ Shanti is stubborn as hell.
➻ Shanti doesn't take crap from anyone.
➻ Shanti annoys the hell out of everyone.
➻ Shanti is epic.
➻ Shanti is straightforward.
➻ Shanti is broken.
➻ Shanti is complex.
➻ Shanti has a crazy, bastard horse.
➻ Shanti just joined Kate Daniels in my very exclusive Most Awesome Badass Heroines Ever Club. Yes she did.
Am I boring you yet? Yeah, I thought as much. Just wanted to make sure I got the message across. Just let me know if I need to rehash it a little bit. I'd be glad to do it. Anytime. It would be no problem at all. I aim to please. Really. Don't hesitate to ask. It would be my pleasure. I mean it.
There is no publication date for book 3. I think I'm going to die.
· Book 0.5: Forged in Blood ★★★★
· Book 1: Chosen ★★★★★
· Book 3: Shadow Lands ★★★★
· Book 4: Invasion ★★★★★
· Book 5: Siege ★★★★★
· Book 6: Overtaken ★★★
December 21, 2024
reread - feels like a warm hug, i missed this world
.
SOOOOO PSYCHED ABOUT THIS. OMG. I CAN'T.
30% in and I'm already caught in my own triangle. Yes, it's between me and the two characters in this series, don't judge. I'm having a hard time deciding who I love more, Cayan or Rohnan. Halp.
POST-READING THOUGHTS: (3 July 2016)
5 ROHNAN-MY-BABYLOVE STARS!
This was still as thrilling and captivating as the first book.
I thought I wouldn't like the plot of this because of how the last book ended. But no, I still genuinely loved it.
I don't think I can comment much without giving away the plot. So, I'm going to be really vague now.
The additional characters were interesting especially Rohnan my love. He's just a damn ray of sunshine not to mention super easy on the eyes. He's sensitive which made him really adorable. And his relationship with Shanti was heartwarming.
&
If the romance was only a hint on Chosen, it's completely nonexistent here. Although there were quite a few suggestions of jealousy here, I must admit. But like I said before, romance was not a main thrust of this series. Yet.
And Sander's dry humor was on point too. I just love every single character in this series.
I highly, highly recommend this series.
.
SOOOOO PSYCHED ABOUT THIS. OMG. I CAN'T.
30% in and I'm already caught in my own triangle. Yes, it's between me and the two characters in this series, don't judge. I'm having a hard time deciding who I love more, Cayan or Rohnan. Halp.
POST-READING THOUGHTS: (3 July 2016)
5 ROHNAN-MY-BABYLOVE STARS!
This was still as thrilling and captivating as the first book.
I thought I wouldn't like the plot of this because of how the last book ended. But no, I still genuinely loved it.
I don't think I can comment much without giving away the plot. So, I'm going to be really vague now.
The additional characters were interesting especially Rohnan my love. He's just a damn ray of sunshine not to mention super easy on the eyes. He's sensitive which made him really adorable. And his relationship with Shanti was heartwarming.
“Yes, Rohnan. Thank you for, again, stating the obvious. What did I do without you all this year?"
&
“You made me tough, and your guidance made me better.”
“If only it improved your jokes…”
If the romance was only a hint on Chosen, it's completely nonexistent here. Although there were quite a few suggestions of jealousy here, I must admit. But like I said before, romance was not a main thrust of this series. Yet.
And Sander's dry humor was on point too. I just love every single character in this series.
I highly, highly recommend this series.
July 11, 2024
✅ Characters and character development
✅ Action and twists
✅ Pace and Plot
✅ Powers
✅🆗 World-building
✅🆗 Banter / Funny moments
I did not like this book as much as the first one but it is still a very enjoyable book. It is darker than Chosen and more about the inner thoughts of Shanti and her feelings regarding this whole quest of hers, and the fact that she will most probably not survive. Her character grows a lot in this second book, and still, she keeps fighting even though she doubts everything and wishes that she could just give up. There is less funny banter as Shanti's group is on the run to get away from the Hunter, a high ranking man part of Xandre's army.
The plot gets more complex, and it is built with the elements introduced in the first book. There is a lot of action, twists, and turns, and once again, I could put it down once I started it.
There are fewer funny and sarcastic interactions in this book and I think that is why I liked it a little less. The Honor guard was part of the story, but they were less present, and I missed reading about them and their funny moments. We get to see more of Sanders though and I really like his snarky personality.
There are two new characters in this book that are becoming quite important. First, Shanti is finally reunited with her brother and Chance, Rohnan. He is funny, sarcastic, and a reassuring presence. I already love him, and I hope that we will see more of him in the third book and learn more about his motives and his backstory. Also, his banter with Shanti made up for the lack of sarcastic conversation between her and Cayan. She also ends up breaking Burson out of a Graygual camp. He seems to be part mad, part seer, and I think that I will like him more as I continue this series. One character that I miss is Lucius, I really liked him in the first book, but he was absent from this one (he actually was there for a few pages and that's it).
The slow burn between Shanti and Cayan is still there, and the development of their relationship is great. The author incorporated funny moments, and sexy moments as well in the midst of all the action. Shanti and Cayan are slowly learning to trust each other and they have to in order to be able to merge their powers. The author did an awesome job with the slow-building of romance and lust, but I am left wanting more of them... I really hope they finally have a go at it in the next book! 😏
Even though I missed the light banter part, I enjoyed reading this book a lot, and I will definitely continue this series.
0.5 Forged in Blood ⭐⭐⭐
1. Chosen ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
✅ Action and twists
✅ Pace and Plot
✅ Powers
✅🆗 World-building
✅🆗 Banter / Funny moments
“Women who have suffered, no matter how afraid, hold out their hands in aid to help others. To create a loyalty like no other--as strong as an oak, as enduring as a mountain, and as brutal as Time—look no further than a female who has risen from the ashes.”
I did not like this book as much as the first one but it is still a very enjoyable book. It is darker than Chosen and more about the inner thoughts of Shanti and her feelings regarding this whole quest of hers, and the fact that she will most probably not survive. Her character grows a lot in this second book, and still, she keeps fighting even though she doubts everything and wishes that she could just give up. There is less funny banter as Shanti's group is on the run to get away from the Hunter, a high ranking man part of Xandre's army.
The plot gets more complex, and it is built with the elements introduced in the first book. There is a lot of action, twists, and turns, and once again, I could put it down once I started it.
There are fewer funny and sarcastic interactions in this book and I think that is why I liked it a little less. The Honor guard was part of the story, but they were less present, and I missed reading about them and their funny moments. We get to see more of Sanders though and I really like his snarky personality.
“Once upon a time I would’ve found her complete lack of interest in killing one’s own troops cause for alarm. I might’ve worried she’d slit my throat in my sleep. Now that I know she probably will, I find I’m not as concerned.”
“I wouldn’t slit your throat in your sleep, Sanders. I would do it when you were awake. Think of the sport it would be.” Shanti’s voice was colored with humor. Sanders snorted.”
There are two new characters in this book that are becoming quite important. First, Shanti is finally reunited with her brother and Chance, Rohnan. He is funny, sarcastic, and a reassuring presence. I already love him, and I hope that we will see more of him in the third book and learn more about his motives and his backstory. Also, his banter with Shanti made up for the lack of sarcastic conversation between her and Cayan. She also ends up breaking Burson out of a Graygual camp. He seems to be part mad, part seer, and I think that I will like him more as I continue this series. One character that I miss is Lucius, I really liked him in the first book, but he was absent from this one (he actually was there for a few pages and that's it).
“She was the lightning, he was the thunder. Together they were a force of nature itself, so beautiful, yet full of unpardonable destruction.”
The slow burn between Shanti and Cayan is still there, and the development of their relationship is great. The author incorporated funny moments, and sexy moments as well in the midst of all the action. Shanti and Cayan are slowly learning to trust each other and they have to in order to be able to merge their powers. The author did an awesome job with the slow-building of romance and lust, but I am left wanting more of them... I really hope they finally have a go at it in the next book! 😏
“Judging by the rage and desire both pulsing through his mind, he was fighting an impulse to both throw her overboard, and kiss her. It seemed he hadn’t yet decided which action he’d rather choose.
“Act on either of your thoughts, Cayan, and one of us is going swimming. I’ve survived stormy waters. Have you?”
Even though I missed the light banter part, I enjoyed reading this book a lot, and I will definitely continue this series.
0.5 Forged in Blood ⭐⭐⭐
1. Chosen ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
November 8, 2017
*** 4.44 ***
A buddy read with my friends at the MacHalo Freaks! Because we love kick-ass warrior women!
"...“If we’re running to our death, I’d like to get there before supper.” ..."
Now this is what I call a bad-ass lady! Shanti is awesome, and this is why I want the dude that seems to be destined to be her love interest to be awesome too, but I just can't feel any good feelings for Cayan, who is just as self-involved, bossy, pushy, and used to get everything the way he wants it as any other generic alpha jerk out there. Maybe it is me, but I actually root for almost any other male to win her heart rather than have her panting over him, even against her own better judgement at this point. Even Sanders, who is a grumpy and negative and openly hostile to Shanti is a batter dude than Cayan, but unfortunately he is out of the romantic running, because he is already happily married. Yes, Cayan is strong, handsome, has the mental power so valued in this world, and is some kind of savant with it, but he is still a jerk and cock-blocks Shanti at every tern, since he doesn't want her to have any fun with anyone else if she is not going to have it with him. I am so happy she has not given in to his "charms" yet! But the author is obviously leading us there...:(((
"..."I will get my way", Cayan said easily as he stood. "In all things, I will get my way." ..."
Tell me he is not a spoiled brat! At least there are couple of things going fro Shanti's social life. In the end of the previous book she heard some gossip about a "ghost" having been captured by the Graygual army and she decides to find out if that could possibly be her old friend and sword-brother whom she thought was dead. This made for a great reunion with Rohnan, a pale, gentle, but strong and very likable young man, who has known Shanti since childhood and is a great addition to the cast. I admit I am a bit disappointed that the author went overboard to make sure from the start that he is in the best friend/brother category, not to raise our hopes of any romance possible between them...
"...“She really had been without for too long. “If you don’t use what the Elders blessed you with, it might rot,” Rohnan said in their language in a sing-song tone. “And there he is. It is obvious how willing he is to keep you in good working order." ..."
In the same army camp she acquired a new friend, an older, mysterious, somewhat Yoda-like mystic, Burson, who seems to make everyone feel confused when he starts speaking:)
"...“Do me a favor,” she said to the old man as they neared the path. “When you speak madness, do it in the other language. It’s less confusing that way.” ..."
The best addition to the cast was the Horse! He has a very "interesting" relationship with Shanti and I am looking forward to its developing progression.
"...“That woman’s horse is crazy!” Sanders barked. He shook his head. “The thing is a menace. If it hadn’t tried to take out the enemy on its own, or had damn good blood lines running through it, I’d say let’s eat it.” ..."
I loved having all the teenage Cadets back - they are still as adorable as puppies and I love them all.
"...“We can get through this place because we’re a team, Shoolan. And we have the Captain. These other people, they didn’t have the Captain.” Leilius sounded so sure. The kid was the most trusting, positive person Shanti had ever known. “Cadet, if you keep talking like that,” Sanders said in a voice that could cut through a monsoon and still reach the intended ear. “People are going to think God scooped out your brains and replaced them with rainbows and horse shit.” ..."
This is a fast paced, well developed and entertaining Fantasy with a budding romance and a lot of solid friendships, which hold the book up and make it a worthy read. I am so glad my enchanting friends at the MacHalos got me to read it - it is another series which is much better than the quality of its covers:):):) You guys should give it a try!
Now I wish you all Happy Reading and may you always find what you need in the pages of a good book!!!
A buddy read with my friends at the MacHalo Freaks! Because we love kick-ass warrior women!
"...“If we’re running to our death, I’d like to get there before supper.” ..."
Now this is what I call a bad-ass lady! Shanti is awesome, and this is why I want the dude that seems to be destined to be her love interest to be awesome too, but I just can't feel any good feelings for Cayan, who is just as self-involved, bossy, pushy, and used to get everything the way he wants it as any other generic alpha jerk out there. Maybe it is me, but I actually root for almost any other male to win her heart rather than have her panting over him, even against her own better judgement at this point. Even Sanders, who is a grumpy and negative and openly hostile to Shanti is a batter dude than Cayan, but unfortunately he is out of the romantic running, because he is already happily married. Yes, Cayan is strong, handsome, has the mental power so valued in this world, and is some kind of savant with it, but he is still a jerk and cock-blocks Shanti at every tern, since he doesn't want her to have any fun with anyone else if she is not going to have it with him. I am so happy she has not given in to his "charms" yet! But the author is obviously leading us there...:(((
"..."I will get my way", Cayan said easily as he stood. "In all things, I will get my way." ..."
Tell me he is not a spoiled brat! At least there are couple of things going fro Shanti's social life. In the end of the previous book she heard some gossip about a "ghost" having been captured by the Graygual army and she decides to find out if that could possibly be her old friend and sword-brother whom she thought was dead. This made for a great reunion with Rohnan, a pale, gentle, but strong and very likable young man, who has known Shanti since childhood and is a great addition to the cast. I admit I am a bit disappointed that the author went overboard to make sure from the start that he is in the best friend/brother category, not to raise our hopes of any romance possible between them...
"...“She really had been without for too long. “If you don’t use what the Elders blessed you with, it might rot,” Rohnan said in their language in a sing-song tone. “And there he is. It is obvious how willing he is to keep you in good working order." ..."
In the same army camp she acquired a new friend, an older, mysterious, somewhat Yoda-like mystic, Burson, who seems to make everyone feel confused when he starts speaking:)
"...“Do me a favor,” she said to the old man as they neared the path. “When you speak madness, do it in the other language. It’s less confusing that way.” ..."
The best addition to the cast was the Horse! He has a very "interesting" relationship with Shanti and I am looking forward to its developing progression.
"...“That woman’s horse is crazy!” Sanders barked. He shook his head. “The thing is a menace. If it hadn’t tried to take out the enemy on its own, or had damn good blood lines running through it, I’d say let’s eat it.” ..."
I loved having all the teenage Cadets back - they are still as adorable as puppies and I love them all.
"...“We can get through this place because we’re a team, Shoolan. And we have the Captain. These other people, they didn’t have the Captain.” Leilius sounded so sure. The kid was the most trusting, positive person Shanti had ever known. “Cadet, if you keep talking like that,” Sanders said in a voice that could cut through a monsoon and still reach the intended ear. “People are going to think God scooped out your brains and replaced them with rainbows and horse shit.” ..."
This is a fast paced, well developed and entertaining Fantasy with a budding romance and a lot of solid friendships, which hold the book up and make it a worthy read. I am so glad my enchanting friends at the MacHalos got me to read it - it is another series which is much better than the quality of its covers:):):) You guys should give it a try!
Now I wish you all Happy Reading and may you always find what you need in the pages of a good book!!!
July 29, 2018
Yet another good one, good to know the first book was no a fluke. I couldn't stop reading, lucky for me there are four more books to go through, yay.
May 11, 2017
I've figured it out!! It's romance! It's romance that I missed in the first book, now in this one as well. If Shanti let go of her past, let herself heal and love again, I believe this series will be a lot better!
September 10, 2015
After absolutely loving Chosen I couldn't wait to find out what happened next so I dove straight into Hunted and K.F. Breene has given us another fantastic instalment in this series. This is quite different to the first book, in some ways it's a bit darker and there is a little less funny banter and humour but that's because Shanti is facing more danger than ever before.
At the end of the previous book we saw her walk away from the help Cayan was willing to offer her, she turned her back on her allies and set off alone because she didn't want to pull anyone else into her fight. Now she's running scared, she's afraid to be on her own, she's afraid to go back and ask for help, she's afraid of her destiny and to be honest I can't blame her for that. She has been under pressure since she was five years old, her people are relying on her to provide them with safety and she's already had to make some horrendously difficult decisions. What I love about Shanti is that she pushes forward in spite of her fears, she just keeps on going no matter how tough things get and she always tries to do her best by the people she cares about. She's also willing to admit when she makes a mistake, she realises that she may have lost her best chance of survival by walking away from Cayan and when she goes back to request his assistance she isn't afraid to apologise and admit that she was wrong to leave like she did.
I'll admit I was a little disappointed that Shanti and Cayan were apart for the first part of the story but I actually enjoyed seeing what they were both up to and it just made it all the sweeter when they were back together again. Cayan isn't planning on letting Shanti get away from him without a fight and he's making plans to build an even bigger army so he can help her on her quest. Shanti on the other hand hears rumours about a man who has been causing trouble for the Grayguals and she thinks she might know his identity so she sets out on a rescue mission. She had always thought Rohnan gave his life to save her but discovering that he survived gives her a new sense of hope. I absolutely loved the introduction of Rohnan, the bond between him and Shanti is fantastic and I like the more playful side that he brings out of her but what I really appreciated was that K.F. Breene hasn't introduced a love triangle. Shanti and Rohnan are like siblings and their relationship is very much platonic but it was a lot of fun seeing them together and I loved the way Rohnan constantly teased her about Cayan.
As far as Cayan and Shanti's relationship goes I'm happy with the way things are progressing, there is definitely a connection there but it's nice that things are developing slowly, especially considering how stubborn they both are. I enjoy watching Cayan's reaction whenever Shanti finds another man attractive and don't think he's going to let her get away with avoiding his advances for too much longer. The side characters get another chance to shine in this book, along with Rohnan and another fab new addition who I'm not going to tell you anything about, we also get plenty more of Sanders (I love that guy!) and Shanti's Honor Guard.
The only thing I think we're missing from this series is other strong female characters, Shanti seems to be really good at collecting people, she inspires loyalty from everyone she meets and they all want to find a way to help her, but they're nearly all guys. We've met very few women and the ones we have come across so far have only had very minor side roles to play. That's something I really hope changes as the series continues but I'm loving everything else. The humour, the action, Shanti's ability to completely annihilate her enemies, the friendships, the budding romance, it's all spot on and I'm about to dive straight into Shadow Lands because I just can't stop myself!
At the end of the previous book we saw her walk away from the help Cayan was willing to offer her, she turned her back on her allies and set off alone because she didn't want to pull anyone else into her fight. Now she's running scared, she's afraid to be on her own, she's afraid to go back and ask for help, she's afraid of her destiny and to be honest I can't blame her for that. She has been under pressure since she was five years old, her people are relying on her to provide them with safety and she's already had to make some horrendously difficult decisions. What I love about Shanti is that she pushes forward in spite of her fears, she just keeps on going no matter how tough things get and she always tries to do her best by the people she cares about. She's also willing to admit when she makes a mistake, she realises that she may have lost her best chance of survival by walking away from Cayan and when she goes back to request his assistance she isn't afraid to apologise and admit that she was wrong to leave like she did.
I'll admit I was a little disappointed that Shanti and Cayan were apart for the first part of the story but I actually enjoyed seeing what they were both up to and it just made it all the sweeter when they were back together again. Cayan isn't planning on letting Shanti get away from him without a fight and he's making plans to build an even bigger army so he can help her on her quest. Shanti on the other hand hears rumours about a man who has been causing trouble for the Grayguals and she thinks she might know his identity so she sets out on a rescue mission. She had always thought Rohnan gave his life to save her but discovering that he survived gives her a new sense of hope. I absolutely loved the introduction of Rohnan, the bond between him and Shanti is fantastic and I like the more playful side that he brings out of her but what I really appreciated was that K.F. Breene hasn't introduced a love triangle. Shanti and Rohnan are like siblings and their relationship is very much platonic but it was a lot of fun seeing them together and I loved the way Rohnan constantly teased her about Cayan.
As far as Cayan and Shanti's relationship goes I'm happy with the way things are progressing, there is definitely a connection there but it's nice that things are developing slowly, especially considering how stubborn they both are. I enjoy watching Cayan's reaction whenever Shanti finds another man attractive and don't think he's going to let her get away with avoiding his advances for too much longer. The side characters get another chance to shine in this book, along with Rohnan and another fab new addition who I'm not going to tell you anything about, we also get plenty more of Sanders (I love that guy!) and Shanti's Honor Guard.
The only thing I think we're missing from this series is other strong female characters, Shanti seems to be really good at collecting people, she inspires loyalty from everyone she meets and they all want to find a way to help her, but they're nearly all guys. We've met very few women and the ones we have come across so far have only had very minor side roles to play. That's something I really hope changes as the series continues but I'm loving everything else. The humour, the action, Shanti's ability to completely annihilate her enemies, the friendships, the budding romance, it's all spot on and I'm about to dive straight into Shadow Lands because I just can't stop myself!
February 2, 2016
If you need one reason to read this book... The horse. Read this for the horse.
May 22, 2020
THIS IS AWESOME
Yes, the series gets better and better.
Shanti gets more and more awesome. Maybe she didn't impress you in the first book, but this is where I feel like her story actually begins.
I couldn't put down this series, couldn't even stop to write a review. So yes, definitely worth reading.
Yes, the series gets better and better.
Shanti gets more and more awesome. Maybe she didn't impress you in the first book, but this is where I feel like her story actually begins.
I couldn't put down this series, couldn't even stop to write a review. So yes, definitely worth reading.
October 7, 2015
Buddy read with the MacHalos (doesn't that make us sound like we should be singing backup to Diana Ross or something?)
According to my fellow buddy readers, they didn't enjoy this book as much as the first. I don't agree, obviously, as my rating shows. Why I liked this one just as much as the first, but in a different way....
1. This book is deeper and darker, it's a better look into what makes up Shanti, Cayan, the Honor Guard, Sanders, etc. It gives more the initial one or two dimensional character markup we were given in the first book. Characters need more than their sparkling wit (ok, maybe not if they have a sparkling wit) and good looks to progress a story.
2. More points of view. The first book is all Shanti, all the time, which is amazing, but I always wondering what was going on in Cayan's big noggin - I picture him with a giant skull to go with his giant skeleton. His POV is surprisingly disappointing, I feel like it didn't give me the sort of insight I thought I'd be getting, it felt like a brief made-you-look glance at the inner workings of his mind. The better POV's were of the Honor Guard, surprisingly, since I detest teenagers. The Honor Guard teens aren't your average teens you think of poisoning to save the world the pain of having to deal with them and their idiocy. Don't be mistaken, they still have the stupid goofiness of teenage boys, but it's tempered with serious intent to live through the upcoming threats.
3. Specific villain. The first book has the big villain you know won't appear until the last fight, Xandre & his army, but book 2 introduces the Hunter. The Hunter is the first single person villain we've met and I have big hopes for him bringing the crazy. Right now, he's very "Mr.Anderson..." like the villain in the The Matrix, letting all the little people fight while he sits back and watches. I really prefer my villains to bring the bat shit crazy. I want to be wondering what fuckery their sick minds will be bringing to the party, i.e. Col. Tavington in The Patriot, Voldemort, The Joker, Loki (he brings the hotness, too). The Hunter has the lack of feelings and conscience going for him, but I need him to get buck wild.
4. New characters. Burson, that old fool is fun.
We also have Rohnan, who kind of gets on my nerves, but I think he's a good addition the story due to his helping talents.
5. Sanders. Stella (Sanders) got her groove back in this book. I was kind of undecided about him in the first book, but he's much more fun in this book. I like when people let the crazy out.
Now if book 3 doesn't make me wanna cut someone, they bring the crazy, and it all has a HEA, I'll be good. If not, well I've got cupcakes awaiting me if I need that kind of support. Baked goods are always there for you.
According to my fellow buddy readers, they didn't enjoy this book as much as the first. I don't agree, obviously, as my rating shows. Why I liked this one just as much as the first, but in a different way....
1. This book is deeper and darker, it's a better look into what makes up Shanti, Cayan, the Honor Guard, Sanders, etc. It gives more the initial one or two dimensional character markup we were given in the first book. Characters need more than their sparkling wit (ok, maybe not if they have a sparkling wit) and good looks to progress a story.
2. More points of view. The first book is all Shanti, all the time, which is amazing, but I always wondering what was going on in Cayan's big noggin - I picture him with a giant skull to go with his giant skeleton. His POV is surprisingly disappointing, I feel like it didn't give me the sort of insight I thought I'd be getting, it felt like a brief made-you-look glance at the inner workings of his mind. The better POV's were of the Honor Guard, surprisingly, since I detest teenagers. The Honor Guard teens aren't your average teens you think of poisoning to save the world the pain of having to deal with them and their idiocy. Don't be mistaken, they still have the stupid goofiness of teenage boys, but it's tempered with serious intent to live through the upcoming threats.
3. Specific villain. The first book has the big villain you know won't appear until the last fight, Xandre & his army, but book 2 introduces the Hunter. The Hunter is the first single person villain we've met and I have big hopes for him bringing the crazy. Right now, he's very "Mr.Anderson..." like the villain in the The Matrix, letting all the little people fight while he sits back and watches. I really prefer my villains to bring the bat shit crazy. I want to be wondering what fuckery their sick minds will be bringing to the party, i.e. Col. Tavington in The Patriot, Voldemort, The Joker, Loki (he brings the hotness, too). The Hunter has the lack of feelings and conscience going for him, but I need him to get buck wild.
4. New characters. Burson, that old fool is fun.
We also have Rohnan, who kind of gets on my nerves, but I think he's a good addition the story due to his helping talents.
5. Sanders. Stella (Sanders) got her groove back in this book. I was kind of undecided about him in the first book, but he's much more fun in this book. I like when people let the crazy out.
Now if book 3 doesn't make me wanna cut someone, they bring the crazy, and it all has a HEA, I'll be good. If not, well I've got cupcakes awaiting me if I need that kind of support. Baked goods are always there for you.
March 23, 2018
As many of the other reviews mentioned, the book is driven via the story and the plot and there is no problem in that. However, I need a balance of all aspects in order for me to be fully engaged within the series.
While I did enjoy the book and its turns and twists it provided, I was not fully entranced by it either. I found myself putting it off or disinterest towards the plot in itself. It felt somewhat redundant, the world-building and intense action is carried further within this book. However, the characters seem to be at a stand-still. Personally I lost interest to carry on with the series.
May be another time...
While I did enjoy the book and its turns and twists it provided, I was not fully entranced by it either. I found myself putting it off or disinterest towards the plot in itself. It felt somewhat redundant, the world-building and intense action is carried further within this book. However, the characters seem to be at a stand-still. Personally I lost interest to carry on with the series.
May be another time...
September 10, 2020
This series is living up to the hype
June 11, 2021
This epic action packed series continues to deliver a perfectly written storyline! I am further dragged (willingly) into this world!
We pick up where we left off in book 1, with Shanti's journey to avenge the deaths of her people. She has to allow those she has met along the way to become her new family which stirs incredible fear for her. The idea of losing any more loved ones to this war is unimaginable. As new members trickle into her war party Shanti finally begins to see a reason to survive this war and a reason to live begins to resurface.
Cayan is still elusive to me. Still feel as though a good chunk of his past is lingering untouched. On one hand I find it mysterious and on the other aggravating. If this continues to be the case in book 3 I will be highly disappointed. Two books with missing information is my max for being tolerable.
Big disappointment for me was the continued absence of hot chemistry. There is none. I mean I never felt a tingle. For me this should have happened by now. Due to this missing ingredient I could not rate this a 5 star and if this continues in book 3 you will probably see a drop to a 3 star.
On to book 3!
Happy reading,
DD 💕
We pick up where we left off in book 1, with Shanti's journey to avenge the deaths of her people. She has to allow those she has met along the way to become her new family which stirs incredible fear for her. The idea of losing any more loved ones to this war is unimaginable. As new members trickle into her war party Shanti finally begins to see a reason to survive this war and a reason to live begins to resurface.
Cayan is still elusive to me. Still feel as though a good chunk of his past is lingering untouched. On one hand I find it mysterious and on the other aggravating. If this continues to be the case in book 3 I will be highly disappointed. Two books with missing information is my max for being tolerable.
Big disappointment for me was the continued absence of hot chemistry. There is none. I mean I never felt a tingle. For me this should have happened by now. Due to this missing ingredient I could not rate this a 5 star and if this continues in book 3 you will probably see a drop to a 3 star.
On to book 3!
Happy reading,
DD 💕
March 24, 2021
I was more interested in Shanti's relationship development with her horse than with Cayan to be real. That is meant as an insult to Cayan but also.... love that fuckin horse. I'm glad this book centered around Rohnan. I liked his character a lot, especially that he had the soul of a healer and would've done that as a trade but circumstance turned him into a lethal warrior. Love a savage w a soft heart ;) I also liked the idea of Cayan's psychic gifts being cut off by trauma and the way it was described as like this jagged wound that needed a salve. Nice imagery there.
June 27, 2017
3 1/2 stars Shanti goes traveling.
May 26, 2020
Almost felt like a filler book. But I'm too hooked on the story to stop reading the next one.
February 5, 2017
Whoa! It's getting even better! Where I'd struggled in the beginning of part one to get my mind into the story and this world with all the different types of people, I'd jumped now head first into the story and was in from page one. And what a ride it was! I'm still breathless and panting.
Shanti finds her adopted brother and with him a mysterious stranger and heads straight back to Cayan (thank to the elders ;)) ). Together with him and some others of the bunch they go on a dangerous journey to get to the shadowlands where Shanti has some business.
Long story short, I. LOVED. EVERY. SECOND! You have to read the first book first! It's still not a love story and the romance is still very subtle, but it's brooding and I've never read a hotter mind mingling than between Cayan and Shanti.
And I can't even write more, because I have to start book three....NOW!
Shanti finds her adopted brother and with him a mysterious stranger and heads straight back to Cayan (thank to the elders ;)) ). Together with him and some others of the bunch they go on a dangerous journey to get to the shadowlands where Shanti has some business.
Long story short, I. LOVED. EVERY. SECOND! You have to read the first book first! It's still not a love story and the romance is still very subtle, but it's brooding and I've never read a hotter mind mingling than between Cayan and Shanti.
And I can't even write more, because I have to start book three....NOW!
July 26, 2016
4.5 stars. I NEED THEM TO BE TOGETHER!!!!
December 21, 2020
Shanti left Cayan and her new friends behind to continue her quest to the Shadowlands. Well, basically she ran away from all the feelings she didn’t want to face, especially those regarding Cayan. On her resumed journey, she hears rumors of someone harassing the Graygauls, called the Ghost, who she believes is her Chance/brother She infiltrates a Graygaul camp to rescue him but in the process, exposes herself to a dangerous Hunter who quickly starts to pursue her relentlessly.
I’m just so happy that Shanti decided to return to Cayan that I can barely think about the rest of the plot. Although, I do like the added characters of Burson and Rohnan and what they bring to the overall plot. It seems we are a long way from Shanti overcoming Xandre's hold on the land - I get it, it is a 6 book series, I need to be patient. At least the next book promises to have more of Cayan and the boys in her Honor Guard (I like them, especially Marc).
I’m just so happy that Shanti decided to return to Cayan that I can barely think about the rest of the plot. Although, I do like the added characters of Burson and Rohnan and what they bring to the overall plot. It seems we are a long way from Shanti overcoming Xandre's hold on the land - I get it, it is a 6 book series, I need to be patient. At least the next book promises to have more of Cayan and the boys in her Honor Guard (I like them, especially Marc).
November 23, 2020
Hunted
(The Warrior Chronicles #2)
by K.F. Breene
Our Chosen has run from the safety of the town to protect them and continues her journey. She finds a fellow survivor but he is a prisoner. The book is full of action, adventure, mystery, magic, and skilled fighting! They find another with gifts even stronger and much different than their own and they must protect the old man. She realizes she must reunite with her power's mate and go back to train him. This is one busy and well traveled, but thrilling ride! Her horse is hilarious! It's as mean as she is!
(The Warrior Chronicles #2)
by K.F. Breene
Our Chosen has run from the safety of the town to protect them and continues her journey. She finds a fellow survivor but he is a prisoner. The book is full of action, adventure, mystery, magic, and skilled fighting! They find another with gifts even stronger and much different than their own and they must protect the old man. She realizes she must reunite with her power's mate and go back to train him. This is one busy and well traveled, but thrilling ride! Her horse is hilarious! It's as mean as she is!
December 30, 2020
Did I read Hunted right after Chosen and enjoy it just as much? Yes I did.
Was Hunted as exciting and action packed and simply completely amazing as Chosen? Yes it was.
Did it feel like Hunted went by way too fast and can't wait to read the next book? Hell yes!
Was Hunted still less romance and more kick-ass Shanti in this awesome fantasy? You bet!
Did the story & plot in Hunted progress and keep me just as enthralled as it did in Chosen? Of course!
Did we meet new interesting and cool characters in Hunted? We sure did!
Am I simply unable to properly wax poetic of how very much I liked Hunted? Should be pretty obvious by now.
Do I think you should definitely read Chosen so you can then dive straight into Hunted? Yes, I do!
Was Shanti's new horse in Hunted simply the best thing ever? Ahahahhahaa, I LOVE that horse! :D
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Book #0.5 review: Forged in Blood
Book #1 review: Chosen
Book #2 review: Hunted
Book #3 review: Shadow Lands
Book #4 review: Invasion
Book #5 review: Siege
Was Hunted as exciting and action packed and simply completely amazing as Chosen? Yes it was.
Did it feel like Hunted went by way too fast and can't wait to read the next book? Hell yes!
Was Hunted still less romance and more kick-ass Shanti in this awesome fantasy? You bet!
Did the story & plot in Hunted progress and keep me just as enthralled as it did in Chosen? Of course!
Did we meet new interesting and cool characters in Hunted? We sure did!
Am I simply unable to properly wax poetic of how very much I liked Hunted? Should be pretty obvious by now.
Do I think you should definitely read Chosen so you can then dive straight into Hunted? Yes, I do!
Was Shanti's new horse in Hunted simply the best thing ever? Ahahahhahaa, I LOVE that horse! :D
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Book #0.5 review: Forged in Blood
Book #1 review: Chosen
Book #2 review: Hunted
Book #3 review: Shadow Lands
Book #4 review: Invasion
Book #5 review: Siege
August 1, 2015
The Journey continues…
I received a copy of Hunted (The Warrior Chronicles #2) from the author to read and review.
Hunted is the second book in the series. It is about Shanti, the heroine, continuing her journey to save the world. There is some action and adventure, but a lot of it was based around mental fights. The characters did not stay true to how they were portrayed in the first one which didn't make the story flow well for me. There is no romance in this story.
I received a copy of Hunted (The Warrior Chronicles #2) from the author to read and review.
Hunted is the second book in the series. It is about Shanti, the heroine, continuing her journey to save the world. There is some action and adventure, but a lot of it was based around mental fights. The characters did not stay true to how they were portrayed in the first one which didn't make the story flow well for me. There is no romance in this story.
August 7, 2015
2.5
few inconsistencies detracted from the overall impression like mentioning personality disorders and genetics when nothing suggests their medicine was so evolved. those kind of blunders punch me out of the story immediately. story had potential but suffers from repetition and insufficient editing.
few inconsistencies detracted from the overall impression like mentioning personality disorders and genetics when nothing suggests their medicine was so evolved. those kind of blunders punch me out of the story immediately. story had potential but suffers from repetition and insufficient editing.
April 23, 2017
Why is this series, so good??
April 6, 2018
הספר השני בסדרה מהווה את המשכו הישיר של הספר הראשון ואני שמחה לומר שנהניתי מאד גם ממנו. מדובר, כאמור, בפנטזיה מתמשכת, שהעלילה שלה הולכת ונפרסת מספר לספר, כשאין ממש סגירה של עלילה בכל אחר מהם בנפרד.
למי שלא רוצה ספוילרים ובטח למי שלא קרא את הספר הראשון, אני מציעה לדלג על הסקירה.
הספר השני נפתח בכך ששאנטי מצילה את רונאן, אחיה והשומר (Chance) שלה, מפני הגרייגואל ביחד איתו גם אדם נוסף, שרונאן מתעקש שהם חייבים להציל - אדם שמסתבר ששמו בורסון והוא מהווה נכס חשוב בעיניי הגרייגואל ולפיכך רונאן מניח שהוא חשוב להמשך דרכם והשגת ייעודם.
אנחנו לומדים שקסנדר (זנדר?), ה- Being Supreme , פועל בנחישות להשתלטות על העולם, תוך שהוא משלח את צבא הגרייגואל שלו ואת האינקנה בכל מי שנקרה בדרכו.
שאנטי ורונאן נחושים לסלק מדרכם את האיום שבקיומו של אדם נוסף, שטוען שהוא ה- Chosen, כשהם מתכוונים להגיע לארץ הצללים, ששם שאנטי תוכל לעבור את המבחנים, שיקבעו אם היא אכן הנבחרת.
הבעיה היא שכששאנטי הצילה את רונאן ואת בורסון, היא עוררה את עניינו של הצייד, אחד הקצינים הבכירים בצבא הגרייגואל, ומי שידוע שלעולם אינו מרפה מטרפו. הוא נחוש, הוא אכזרי, הוא חדור מטרה והוא לא ייתן לשום דבר לעמוד בדרכו - לתפוס את שאנטי ואת בורסון ולהביאם בפני קסנדר, על מנת לזכות בקידום המיוחל (ולהימנע מגורל גרוע ממוות, במקרה של כישלון).
וכך נפתח המצוד, שנמשך לאורך הספר כולו ומגיע לסיומו הדרמטי בפרק האחרון.
שאנטי מבינה שהיא ורונאן לא יוכלו להתמודד לבדם עם שלל האיומים וכן שקאיאן ובני עמו עלולים להיפגע במלחמה המשתוללת והיא מחליטה כצעד ראשון לחזור אל קאיאן ואל חבורת הנערים שהשאירה מאחור.
במהלך הספר השני קאיאן ושאנטי מתקרבים קצת יותר (אם כי אנחנו *עדיי* במשחק החתול והעכבר הבלתי פוסק שלהם) ואנחנו לומדים על המחסומים ו מעצורים שיש לשניהם ועל הקושי והחשש מאינטימיות.
שאנטי, רונאן ובורסון גם נדהמים לגלות עד גמה קאיאן חזק - למעשה, הוא חזק הרבה יותר משאנטי, הרבה יותר מכל מה שמישהו אי פעם ראה או שמע. אלא שלבדו הוא לא מסוגל ״לגשת״ למקור הכוח הזה שלו ולשם כך הוא זקוק לשאנטי. רק היא יכולה לעזור לו להגיע לתחתית הבאר, אל שניהם יאלצו לחשוף את עצמם, להציע לאחר את פגיעותם, כדי שזה
יקרה.
בסופו של דבר, העלילה ממשיכה והיא קצבית ומעניינת, אהל אני מטה שבשלב הזה כבר חסרה לי קצת יותר רומנטיקה. אמנם זה כל הזמן ברקע, כל הזמן בבחינת ״זה שם, אבל כולם מתעלמים מזה״ ובכל זאת, מתחשק לי שלפחות חלק קטן מהמתח המיני הזה יתמשש כבר.
אולי יפה פחות טוב מהספר הראשון, אבל עדיין מעניין מספיק כדי שאמשיך לשלישי בסדרה. אם בספר הקודם הבאתי את ההקבלה ל- The Wilds, הרי שהפעם ההקבלה שעולה לי לראש היא לסדרת הערפילאים של סנדרסון ולו בכלל העלילה המתמשכת, שעיקרה פנטזיה והרפתקאות. אבל זה לא באמת דומה. לא ממש.
כבר אמרתי שיש משהו מיוחד בסדרה הזאת? אני ממש נהנית ממנה וממליצה בחום לחובבי הז׳אנר.
למי שלא רוצה ספוילרים ובטח למי שלא קרא את הספר הראשון, אני מציעה לדלג על הסקירה.
הספר השני נפתח בכך ששאנטי מצילה את רונאן, אחיה והשומר (Chance) שלה, מפני הגרייגואל ביחד איתו גם אדם נוסף, שרונאן מתעקש שהם חייבים להציל - אדם שמסתבר ששמו בורסון והוא מהווה נכס חשוב בעיניי הגרייגואל ולפיכך רונאן מניח שהוא חשוב להמשך דרכם והשגת ייעודם.
אנחנו לומדים שקסנדר (זנדר?), ה- Being Supreme , פועל בנחישות להשתלטות על העולם, תוך שהוא משלח את צבא הגרייגואל שלו ואת האינקנה בכל מי שנקרה בדרכו.
שאנטי ורונאן נחושים לסלק מדרכם את האיום שבקיומו של אדם נוסף, שטוען שהוא ה- Chosen, כשהם מתכוונים להגיע לארץ הצללים, ששם שאנטי תוכל לעבור את המבחנים, שיקבעו אם היא אכן הנבחרת.
הבעיה היא שכששאנטי הצילה את רונאן ואת בורסון, היא עוררה את עניינו של הצייד, אחד הקצינים הבכירים בצבא הגרייגואל, ומי שידוע שלעולם אינו מרפה מטרפו. הוא נחוש, הוא אכזרי, הוא חדור מטרה והוא לא ייתן לשום דבר לעמוד בדרכו - לתפוס את שאנטי ואת בורסון ולהביאם בפני קסנדר, על מנת לזכות בקידום המיוחל (ולהימנע מגורל גרוע ממוות, במקרה של כישלון).
וכך נפתח המצוד, שנמשך לאורך הספר כולו ומגיע לסיומו הדרמטי בפרק האחרון.
שאנטי מבינה שהיא ורונאן לא יוכלו להתמודד לבדם עם שלל האיומים וכן שקאיאן ובני עמו עלולים להיפגע במלחמה המשתוללת והיא מחליטה כצעד ראשון לחזור אל קאיאן ואל חבורת הנערים שהשאירה מאחור.
במהלך הספר השני קאיאן ושאנטי מתקרבים קצת יותר (אם כי אנחנו *עדיי* במשחק החתול והעכבר הבלתי פוסק שלהם) ואנחנו לומדים על המחסומים ו מעצורים שיש לשניהם ועל הקושי והחשש מאינטימיות.
שאנטי, רונאן ובורסון גם נדהמים לגלות עד גמה קאיאן חזק - למעשה, הוא חזק הרבה יותר משאנטי, הרבה יותר מכל מה שמישהו אי פעם ראה או שמע. אלא שלבדו הוא לא מסוגל ״לגשת״ למקור הכוח הזה שלו ולשם כך הוא זקוק לשאנטי. רק היא יכולה לעזור לו להגיע לתחתית הבאר, אל שניהם יאלצו לחשוף את עצמם, להציע לאחר את פגיעותם, כדי שזה
יקרה.
בסופו של דבר, העלילה ממשיכה והיא קצבית ומעניינת, אהל אני מטה שבשלב הזה כבר חסרה לי קצת יותר רומנטיקה. אמנם זה כל הזמן ברקע, כל הזמן בבחינת ״זה שם, אבל כולם מתעלמים מזה״ ובכל זאת, מתחשק לי שלפחות חלק קטן מהמתח המיני הזה יתמשש כבר.
אולי יפה פחות טוב מהספר הראשון, אבל עדיין מעניין מספיק כדי שאמשיך לשלישי בסדרה. אם בספר הקודם הבאתי את ההקבלה ל- The Wilds, הרי שהפעם ההקבלה שעולה לי לראש היא לסדרת הערפילאים של סנדרסון ולו בכלל העלילה המתמשכת, שעיקרה פנטזיה והרפתקאות. אבל זה לא באמת דומה. לא ממש.
כבר אמרתי שיש משהו מיוחד בסדרה הזאת? אני ממש נהנית ממנה וממליצה בחום לחובבי הז׳אנר.
December 6, 2023
4 ⭐️
0.5 🌶😢
✔️ Pace and plot
✔️ Great character development
✔️Great side characters
❌Romance
✔️Action and adventure
✔️Powerful FMC and MC
I enjoyed this and I can see a romance can blossom with the FMC and MMC. It's so slow it's annoying me, we've had like two kisses in two books. Overall this series has great plot and characters and I may come back to finish the series at a later date.
0.5 🌶😢
✔️ Pace and plot
✔️ Great character development
✔️Great side characters
❌Romance
✔️Action and adventure
✔️Powerful FMC and MC
I enjoyed this and I can see a romance can blossom with the FMC and MMC. It's so slow it's annoying me, we've had like two kisses in two books. Overall this series has great plot and characters and I may come back to finish the series at a later date.
April 18, 2018
Stubborn woman
Shanti finally realizes that she needs Cayan. It was pretty obvious to everyone else but she can be very stubborn. I did like how she apologized to her team and to Cayan. What I don't understand is the reasoning she uses to keep Cayan at a distance. It drives me crazy that she is interested in men that are fine, but not as amazing as him.
The adventures are exciting and I like the growth that happens in the groups. I was confused at first about the Wanderer vs Chosen prophecies. The Seer is interesting if a bit deranged. Still he is always right so it just gives the story some humor.
Shanti finally realizes that she needs Cayan. It was pretty obvious to everyone else but she can be very stubborn. I did like how she apologized to her team and to Cayan. What I don't understand is the reasoning she uses to keep Cayan at a distance. It drives me crazy that she is interested in men that are fine, but not as amazing as him.
The adventures are exciting and I like the growth that happens in the groups. I was confused at first about the Wanderer vs Chosen prophecies. The Seer is interesting if a bit deranged. Still he is always right so it just gives the story some humor.
May 31, 2021
I think this series is shaping up to be a top read of the year, if not my favourite fantasy series of all time. The book is just jam packed with plot AND great characters. Every single character is complex and layered, unique and wonderful. Shanti has been the hope of her nation almost since she was born and that pressure, alongside seeing so many of her people slaughtered so that she might live, has her riddled with self-doubt and insecurity. Not to mention a soul filled with pain, sorrow and suffering. Yet she still manages to strategize, plot, fight and kick ass brilliantly.
I enjoyed getting to know Cayan a little more in this book. He was still very much an enigma at the end of Chosen, and I suspect we will find out a lot more in Shadow Lands, book #3 of The Warrior Chronicles. I adored his quiet broodiness, his utter conviction of right and wrong and his sheer determination to support, defend and care for Shanti, even when she tries to stand in isolation.
Saunders, Rohnan and the Honor Guard boys all add facets to the story that I didn't even know I needed. Their humour, their insight, their bravery in the face of terror and their love for Shanti made me laugh with joy, cry with sorrow and feel every just about every emotion between. I don't know how she does it but K.F. Breene writes characters that feel so real you expect to find them standing next to you. It doesn't harm that many of them have a wicked sense of humour, perfect for adding levity back to the story following some of the darker, more emotionally draining moments. And if all else failed then Shanti's horse could be relied upon for a little comic relief!
Hunted is not a stand alone book and the series must be read in order for the story to be followed and understood. I'm totally kicking myself for not having read this series before because it absolutely kicks ass and is amazing. I can not recommend this series highly enough.
I enjoyed getting to know Cayan a little more in this book. He was still very much an enigma at the end of Chosen, and I suspect we will find out a lot more in Shadow Lands, book #3 of The Warrior Chronicles. I adored his quiet broodiness, his utter conviction of right and wrong and his sheer determination to support, defend and care for Shanti, even when she tries to stand in isolation.
You will not kill yourself if you get taken—you will wait for me to come and get you. In the meantime, you will need to be able to get yourself out from under someone bigger.”
“Is that right…?” Shanti said in a deathly quiet voice. “That’s mighty presumptuous.”
Cayan sat up. Blood dripped down his neck. “Yes. This is non-negotiable. I will protect you if the worst comes to pass, even from yourself, just as I have done since you were carried into my city. I will not lose you, Shanti—you should know that by now. Since they will not kill you, that allows me time. Xandre might be a battle lord, but he is only a man. If he harms you, he will be a dead man.”
“Poetic.” Shanti wiped her face from sweat and stood. “But you have no idea what you’re talking about. He’s not just a man, Cayan, he has elevated himself into a nightmare. One I can’t seem to wake up from. I will not let myself be raped and tortured so you can try to play the hero.”
“I will get my way,” Cayan said easily as he stood.
“In all things, I will get my way.”
Saunders, Rohnan and the Honor Guard boys all add facets to the story that I didn't even know I needed. Their humour, their insight, their bravery in the face of terror and their love for Shanti made me laugh with joy, cry with sorrow and feel every just about every emotion between. I don't know how she does it but K.F. Breene writes characters that feel so real you expect to find them standing next to you. It doesn't harm that many of them have a wicked sense of humour, perfect for adding levity back to the story following some of the darker, more emotionally draining moments. And if all else failed then Shanti's horse could be relied upon for a little comic relief!
“We can get through this place because we’re a team, Shoolan. And we have the Captain. These other people, they didn’t have the Captain.”
Leilius sounded so sure. The kid was the most trusting, positive person Shanti had ever known.
“Cadet, if you keep talking like that,” Sanders said in a voice that could cut through a monsoon and still reach the intended ear. “People are going to think God scooped out your brains and replaced them with rainbows and horse shit.”
Hunted is not a stand alone book and the series must be read in order for the story to be followed and understood. I'm totally kicking myself for not having read this series before because it absolutely kicks ass and is amazing. I can not recommend this series highly enough.
She turned in her saddle so she could see Leilius. He rode like a sack of potatoes not properly tied on. She really hoped she didn’t look like that.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 520 reviews