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The Dawning of Muirwood #2
The Hunted
A young woman’s burgeoning powers make her Muirwood’s most wanted in a breathtaking novel by Jeff Wheeler, Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Druid.
Eilean is rising. A foundling raised in an abbey, she was entrusted by its imprisoned druid, Mordaunt, with an ancient tome. Its magical words can change the world. Eilean’s first translate it. Her rescue a benevolent Aldermaston sentenced to death as a heretic by the High Seer. But wielding power, knowledge, and ambition has now made Eilean the hunted.
In pursuit is Captain Hoel Evnissyen, an inquisitor in service to the High Seer’s demands. His objective is to track Eilean and steal Mordaunt’s invaluable work. But Hoel’s quest soon yields a fascination with the woman he’s been ordered to pursue. When an invasion begins and the world erupts in chaos, Eilean and Hoel find themselves bound by their mutual wills to survive and, against all odds, realize they are not each other’s enemy.
But now Eilean must decide who is friend and who is foe. Especially when the powerful tome falls into the wrong hands. The closer Eilean and Hoel get, the nearer they are to realizing the part they must play in their kingdom’s destiny—and its ties to Eilean’s own mysterious past.
Eilean is rising. A foundling raised in an abbey, she was entrusted by its imprisoned druid, Mordaunt, with an ancient tome. Its magical words can change the world. Eilean’s first translate it. Her rescue a benevolent Aldermaston sentenced to death as a heretic by the High Seer. But wielding power, knowledge, and ambition has now made Eilean the hunted.
In pursuit is Captain Hoel Evnissyen, an inquisitor in service to the High Seer’s demands. His objective is to track Eilean and steal Mordaunt’s invaluable work. But Hoel’s quest soon yields a fascination with the woman he’s been ordered to pursue. When an invasion begins and the world erupts in chaos, Eilean and Hoel find themselves bound by their mutual wills to survive and, against all odds, realize they are not each other’s enemy.
But now Eilean must decide who is friend and who is foe. Especially when the powerful tome falls into the wrong hands. The closer Eilean and Hoel get, the nearer they are to realizing the part they must play in their kingdom’s destiny—and its ties to Eilean’s own mysterious past.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2022
1747 people are currently reading
4139 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Wheeler
126 books5,216 followersWall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler took an early retirement from his career at Intel in 2014 to write full-time. He is a husband, father of five, and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jeff lives in the Rocky Mountains.
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 281 reviews
October 4, 2022
4.5/5.0
I’ll admit, there is little I enjoy more than losing myself in a fantasy story of Jeff Wheeler’s making. They are just lovely to read, flow easily and ultimately uplift, even when the plot lines are dark and dangerous.
That being said, this specific book will be equal parts perfection and frustration, depending on if one has read the first in this series or even, I suspect, other series from this same world. I wondered often as I was reading if it might be easier for people to have read the author’s earlier works because many of the small threads in this story lend more explanations and depth to those earlier (although later in time sequence) works. Still, this story explores the very beginnings of Muirwood and is set long before Mr. Wheeler’s other series in this world. SO, at times I wished I was reading this one first, as all the other FABULOUS books that came after would have had this important history to draw from. But, at other times I just wanted to go back and read those books again so I could enjoy and tie everything together with much more depth.
Either way, each series in this world truly does stand on its own and all are absolutely beautiful stories that remind a reader of what true fantasy can be at the hand of a master! This book holds all that is wonderful in this genre - action, intrigue, betrayals, magic, and evil against a small light of good that is struggling to survive. It even holds a slow-burn love story that is absolutely delectable! Because, of course, that love is set on opposite sides!
I’ll admit, there is little I enjoy more than losing myself in a fantasy story of Jeff Wheeler’s making. They are just lovely to read, flow easily and ultimately uplift, even when the plot lines are dark and dangerous.
That being said, this specific book will be equal parts perfection and frustration, depending on if one has read the first in this series or even, I suspect, other series from this same world. I wondered often as I was reading if it might be easier for people to have read the author’s earlier works because many of the small threads in this story lend more explanations and depth to those earlier (although later in time sequence) works. Still, this story explores the very beginnings of Muirwood and is set long before Mr. Wheeler’s other series in this world. SO, at times I wished I was reading this one first, as all the other FABULOUS books that came after would have had this important history to draw from. But, at other times I just wanted to go back and read those books again so I could enjoy and tie everything together with much more depth.
Either way, each series in this world truly does stand on its own and all are absolutely beautiful stories that remind a reader of what true fantasy can be at the hand of a master! This book holds all that is wonderful in this genre - action, intrigue, betrayals, magic, and evil against a small light of good that is struggling to survive. It even holds a slow-burn love story that is absolutely delectable! Because, of course, that love is set on opposite sides!
September 25, 2022
I didn’t want the book to end! Book 3 doesn’t release until next year. 😩
⠀
The Hunted is book 2 in the Dawning of Muirwood series. And this series is soo good! It’s a YA fantasy with an enemies to lovers trope that’s to die for.
⠀
I won’t go too deep into the book to avoid spoilers but if you haven’t started this series, check out my review for book 1. And if you haven’t read any Jeff Wheeler books and you’re someone that prefers to read books in chronological order with zero spoilers (like me) then go read The Queen’s Poisoner first. You won’t regret it!
⠀
The Hunted starts off with Eilean being chosen by the Medium to reveal the corruption in the Maston order. She is being pursued by Hoel who believes he is the good guy. The journey of self discovery and magic that Eilean is on is difficult and amazing. Along the way she develops a complicated and beautiful relationship with Hoel.
⠀
The ending is perfection and I can’t believe I have to wait so long for the next book. 😅🙈
⠀
The Hunted is book 2 in the Dawning of Muirwood series. And this series is soo good! It’s a YA fantasy with an enemies to lovers trope that’s to die for.
⠀
I won’t go too deep into the book to avoid spoilers but if you haven’t started this series, check out my review for book 1. And if you haven’t read any Jeff Wheeler books and you’re someone that prefers to read books in chronological order with zero spoilers (like me) then go read The Queen’s Poisoner first. You won’t regret it!
⠀
The Hunted starts off with Eilean being chosen by the Medium to reveal the corruption in the Maston order. She is being pursued by Hoel who believes he is the good guy. The journey of self discovery and magic that Eilean is on is difficult and amazing. Along the way she develops a complicated and beautiful relationship with Hoel.
⠀
The ending is perfection and I can’t believe I have to wait so long for the next book. 😅🙈
November 23, 2022
2..75
Captain Hoel is so annoying — I do not understand Eilean’s admiration for this man. He was a narcissistic jerk for almost two books, harming her friends and allies along the way, and yet she still gave him a pass every single time. Then towards the end he does a 180, and suddenly he’s loved her all along and his weird premonitions are what confused him (even though he witnessed first hand the corruption and the High Seer’s wrath and yet still did nothing about it lol).
I get it, it’s all because of the “medium”, but the romance seems forced. It almost ruined the series for me. Everything just comes too easily for these characters; the evil vs good is so black and white, and all the main villains have been bitchy women caricatures. It’s too predictable.
I’m just underwhelmed because the first book was so good: Hoel was just a way more intriguing anti-hero type villain, Eilean was a more resilient character, and her chemistry with Mordaunt was what really made the story but he was barely here.
Anyway, I’ll finish the series by skimming the next book only because I really want to know if any of the bad guys suffer justice - but by this book’s standard, I wouldn’t be surprised if everyone just became good at the end and sang kumbaya.
Captain Hoel is so annoying — I do not understand Eilean’s admiration for this man. He was a narcissistic jerk for almost two books, harming her friends and allies along the way, and yet she still gave him a pass every single time. Then towards the end he does a 180, and suddenly he’s loved her all along and his weird premonitions are what confused him (even though he witnessed first hand the corruption and the High Seer’s wrath and yet still did nothing about it lol).
I get it, it’s all because of the “medium”, but the romance seems forced. It almost ruined the series for me. Everything just comes too easily for these characters; the evil vs good is so black and white, and all the main villains have been bitchy women caricatures. It’s too predictable.
I’m just underwhelmed because the first book was so good: Hoel was just a way more intriguing anti-hero type villain, Eilean was a more resilient character, and her chemistry with Mordaunt was what really made the story but he was barely here.
Anyway, I’ll finish the series by skimming the next book only because I really want to know if any of the bad guys suffer justice - but by this book’s standard, I wouldn’t be surprised if everyone just became good at the end and sang kumbaya.
September 25, 2022
I was disappointed by this book. Everything seemed to come quite easily for Eilean this time around, and when it didn't she would use magic and then faint. (A potential drinking game for the next book). And because the medium was nudging her throughout the story, nearly every character was transparent and Eilean had to do very little thinking herself.
January 21, 2023
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For more reviews, go to www.wolfmantula.com/book-reviews
MY ⭐️ RATING: 4.25/5
FORMAT: Kindle Whispersync
I always enjoy reading Mr. Wheeler’s works, because these are easy reads with good characters, good story-telling and steeped with history. Wheeler’s stories are a great palate cleanser and an excellent light read that always draw me in further and further into the story.
It took me a while to get into this because of a lack of a “story so far” section to catch me up on the events of book 1, The Druid. This is only an issue because I read 65+ books every year. It has a good pace and once I was caught up with the story, I enjoyed the character development of Eilean and Hoel. I also enjoyed a new character the most, even though it wasn’t a huge part of the story, Púca will hold a special place in my heart. I hope to see púca in The Betrayed.
Kate Rudd does another great job with her narration of the story! I love all the easter eggs that Mr. Wheeler drops about his Harbinger series, which takes place after this series. It has been a while since I’ve read that series, so I don’t remember much about it… so I may need to give it a re-read at some point to get caught back up on the story line.
For more reviews, go to www.wolfmantula.com/book-reviews
MY ⭐️ RATING: 4.25/5
FORMAT: Kindle Whispersync
I always enjoy reading Mr. Wheeler’s works, because these are easy reads with good characters, good story-telling and steeped with history. Wheeler’s stories are a great palate cleanser and an excellent light read that always draw me in further and further into the story.
It took me a while to get into this because of a lack of a “story so far” section to catch me up on the events of book 1, The Druid. This is only an issue because I read 65+ books every year. It has a good pace and once I was caught up with the story, I enjoyed the character development of Eilean and Hoel. I also enjoyed a new character the most, even though it wasn’t a huge part of the story, Púca will hold a special place in my heart. I hope to see púca in The Betrayed.
Kate Rudd does another great job with her narration of the story! I love all the easter eggs that Mr. Wheeler drops about his Harbinger series, which takes place after this series. It has been a while since I’ve read that series, so I don’t remember much about it… so I may need to give it a re-read at some point to get caught back up on the story line.
March 31, 2023
This is a nice swashbuckling story with great pacing for a middle book in a series. A little magic, a little politics, a little sword play, and a little romance.
Read
September 21, 2022Wheeler's middle books are often my favorite, and this one is no different! Excellent read. Beautifully edited.
Annnnd the popular enemies-to-allies-to-love(rs) arc is *perfection*. The relationship with the two protagonists through both books is a blueprint on everything readers love about this trope!
This is a book one can read and truly be immersed in the story.
Annnnd the popular enemies-to-allies-to-love(rs) arc is *perfection*. The relationship with the two protagonists through both books is a blueprint on everything readers love about this trope!
This is a book one can read and truly be immersed in the story.
July 6, 2024
This is Book #2 in "The Dawning of Muirwood" series by Jeff Wheeler. Book #1, "The Druid," introduced us to Mordaunt and Eileann, the Wretched that he educates after he discovers her powers w/ the Medium. It was a far more interesting novel than this one.
In "The Hunted," Eileann becomes ... the hunted. She escaped from Muirwood Abbey w/ Mordaunt's Tome. She is searching for assistance in learning how to read it, as it is an unknown language. The Tome contains information on the origins of the world, which the "powers that be" wish to either remain hidden, or to use that info for themselves, especially the High Seer. Eileann ends up at an Abbey w/ a kindly Aldermaster, who improves her powers from the Medium and instructs her to the point where she passes the maston test, becoming even more powerful, including learning how to read the Tome. But, the corrupt High Seer and others are closing in on her. Is Captain Hoel - to whom she feels so drawn romantically - out to kill her? Or will he in the end help her? Can she protect herself and Celyn, AND the Tome? Will she have to be on the run again?
I was entertained by Mr. Wheeler connecting this series w/ his Kingfountain series by Eileann learning of the alternate world of Brythonica (in the Kingfountain series) and possibly attempting to go there in a future book, which is still being written, I believe. However, there was far too much rewriting of the Bible's origin story for humanity in the Tome. I enjoy how Mr. Wheeler rewrites actual historical events, but the revising of the origin story of the Three Great Monotheistic Faiths was too much for me. The great amount of exposition to explain all of this, as opposed to the plot actually advancing, really slowed down the novel IMO. The action scenes were pulse-pounding, but there just weren't enough of them to overcome all the exposition. 3 stars.
In "The Hunted," Eileann becomes ... the hunted. She escaped from Muirwood Abbey w/ Mordaunt's Tome. She is searching for assistance in learning how to read it, as it is an unknown language. The Tome contains information on the origins of the world, which the "powers that be" wish to either remain hidden, or to use that info for themselves, especially the High Seer. Eileann ends up at an Abbey w/ a kindly Aldermaster, who improves her powers from the Medium and instructs her to the point where she passes the maston test, becoming even more powerful, including learning how to read the Tome. But, the corrupt High Seer and others are closing in on her. Is Captain Hoel - to whom she feels so drawn romantically - out to kill her? Or will he in the end help her? Can she protect herself and Celyn, AND the Tome? Will she have to be on the run again?
I was entertained by Mr. Wheeler connecting this series w/ his Kingfountain series by Eileann learning of the alternate world of Brythonica (in the Kingfountain series) and possibly attempting to go there in a future book, which is still being written, I believe. However, there was far too much rewriting of the Bible's origin story for humanity in the Tome. I enjoy how Mr. Wheeler rewrites actual historical events, but the revising of the origin story of the Three Great Monotheistic Faiths was too much for me. The great amount of exposition to explain all of this, as opposed to the plot actually advancing, really slowed down the novel IMO. The action scenes were pulse-pounding, but there just weren't enough of them to overcome all the exposition. 3 stars.
November 25, 2022
I read the first in this series a few months ago and was sufficiently impressed to read book 2 (and I will be reading book 3 fairly soon). This suffers the usual xenon in a trilogy problem, the reader knows the story is not going to end yet! But Jeff Wheeler continues to develop his world, with its echoes of Christianity, but now adds parallel worlds and a spot of Arthuriana to the mix. The lead character remains interesting As are many of the lesser characters and creatures. I look forward to book 3.
September 22, 2022
This series is becoming my favorite after the Wretched of Muirwood series. Eilean is a very strong character, and while I don't find myself much attached to Celyn or Stright, She's enough to keep the series going. I read this in one sitting today and it brought me to tears, some of the beauty of it. Does the romance move illogically fast? Yes. Do I care? Not at all! I thought the story flowed quite well, travel, adventure, destiny. along with Eilean's character struggles, who to trust, who to not trust, how to communicate with people. I feel that Wheeler's world he's created carries a lot of weight, And I think this is due to the religious undertones, I relate to alot of the beliefs he portrays, and the wisdom that is carried in the worldbuilding is very satisfying. While his prose sometimes makes me laugh with its formality. I am quite excited for the next book in this series,
Thank You to Netgalley for providing me with an early copy of this in exchange for an honest review:)
Thank You to Netgalley for providing me with an early copy of this in exchange for an honest review:)
September 10, 2024
I could barely finish this. The druid was all right but this one is just a spiritless mix-up of some usual fantasy elements.
August 27, 2023
what a shame. all the charm of the first book gets lost in this one, mainly because its faults do not get rectified. the relationships between the characters feel rushed and therefore unearned, whereas the characters themselves remain underdeveloped, particularly the heroine who all of a sudden is good at everything, knows everything, and beats everyone. she constantly has a voice in her head telling her what the right thing to do is, so the story doesn't have any real stakes because you know deus ex machina is going to save the day. speaking of deus, the biblical allegories were heavy in this one. not that i necessarily mind that, it was just funny to observe.
i honest to god don't know if i want to go on and read the final book. i might as well, now that i'm here but also ugh. i mean, i've been powering through these books fast like a mf, there's truly nothing else to do in this heat. (2.5⭐️)
i honest to god don't know if i want to go on and read the final book. i might as well, now that i'm here but also ugh. i mean, i've been powering through these books fast like a mf, there's truly nothing else to do in this heat. (2.5⭐️)
October 6, 2022
This book is closer to 5 than 4, but not quite 5.
Jeff is a brilliant story teller. He creates authentic, strong female characters, often designed to bring out the best in the male protagonist, who is typically good yet flawed. Positive and negative feminine attributes within characters are clearly delineated.
At base this book revolves around a premise of 'good' and 'evil,' with all the many permutations betwixt and between.
It's not a 5 because it's rushed in places and a tad tedious in one or two others. Mostly, however, it's a great read.
Jeff is a brilliant story teller. He creates authentic, strong female characters, often designed to bring out the best in the male protagonist, who is typically good yet flawed. Positive and negative feminine attributes within characters are clearly delineated.
At base this book revolves around a premise of 'good' and 'evil,' with all the many permutations betwixt and between.
It's not a 5 because it's rushed in places and a tad tedious in one or two others. Mostly, however, it's a great read.
June 26, 2023
I am sad I waited so long to read these! While they do all have some elements of sameness, I loved how slowly Wheeler escalates the pacing throughout the series so that by the last quarter of this book, all of a sudden I can't stop reading.
As someone who is not religious, it's a testament to the story that my heart still feels happy that the Aldermaston reconnected with the Medium. Watching that mini character arc through the interludes was one of the best parts of the story.
I also really liked the theme of overcoming your differences to hear what others are saying. Everyone is so blinded by pride and the inability to effectively communicate in this day and age. It's an interesting idea to explore and have different characters reacting based on their prejudices and personalities
We got a lot more from Eilean/Gwenllian's personality too here. I'm loving the theme of friendship and support between her and Celyn - we don't get enough girl power and ideal female friendships in fantasy these days. You're beautiful! I'm proud of you! Why don't our fictional women support each other more?
The good news about waiting to read the series is that I don't have to wait prior to jumping into the next one!
As someone who is not religious, it's a testament to the story that my heart still feels happy that the Aldermaston reconnected with the Medium. Watching that mini character arc through the interludes was one of the best parts of the story.
I also really liked the theme of overcoming your differences to hear what others are saying. Everyone is so blinded by pride and the inability to effectively communicate in this day and age. It's an interesting idea to explore and have different characters reacting based on their prejudices and personalities
We got a lot more from Eilean/Gwenllian's personality too here. I'm loving the theme of friendship and support between her and Celyn - we don't get enough girl power and ideal female friendships in fantasy these days. You're beautiful! I'm proud of you! Why don't our fictional women support each other more?
The good news about waiting to read the series is that I don't have to wait prior to jumping into the next one!
Read
February 15, 2024This is book 2 in The Dawning of Muirwood trilogy. I just could not get into “The Hunted” and so it is my first DNF in a while. The writing is not bad, but the story did not resonate and I could not stay interested. While reading I was easily distracted and nothing in the story had me wanting to stay.
My thanks to 47 North and the author via Netgalley. These are my thoughts given freely.
My thanks to 47 North and the author via Netgalley. These are my thoughts given freely.
October 19, 2022
Just when things feel like they're getting too easy, the plot takes a twist again! I liked this one a lot, and it satisfied a lot of storylines from the first book while setting up more for the next instalment.
September 29, 2022
Vety good
These stories are so imaginative. Fabulous... laced mystery and intrique...good vs evil.... i hope eilean and hoel save everyone from evil
These stories are so imaginative. Fabulous... laced mystery and intrique...good vs evil.... i hope eilean and hoel save everyone from evil
February 4, 2023
Great sequel! Just waiting for next book in the series this month! I can’t wait!
July 1, 2024
This middle book moved the story along - now to finish this series.
April 23, 2023
I keep digging it
Solid second book with a seamless expansion of the universe. The empowering of character and growth of spells keeps the story moving along nicely. Needs to be longer though.
Solid second book with a seamless expansion of the universe. The empowering of character and growth of spells keeps the story moving along nicely. Needs to be longer though.
June 18, 2022
Thank you to Jeff Wheeler, the publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book early!!! This book is amazing and picks up right where The Druid left off. Eilean is on a mission for the Medium to protect an ancient tome and decipher it. She’s being hunted by the “church” or High Seer, faces off with kishion assassins, and even encounters the evil hetaera order which is bent on bringing down the Mastons (people with faith in the medium) and their abbeys. It’s such a good story and I really am looking forward to the next book.
It’s so refreshing to read anything by Jeff. He is an amazing author that focuses on the plot and story with ties in to Christianity (much like Tolkien and CS Lewis). I absolutely love all of Jeff’s book and this is no exception. I love the prequel we are getting to the Muirwood novels already. Also, in all his books the worlds are connected sometimes subtly and other times more in depth but this series really delves into how much they are connected and the history… this new series essentially ties together King Fountain, Mirrowen, Muirwood, and even the Grave Kingdom (references to it at least). His stories are so well written and interesting that he’s an auto buy/read author anytime he publishes a new work!
It’s so refreshing to read anything by Jeff. He is an amazing author that focuses on the plot and story with ties in to Christianity (much like Tolkien and CS Lewis). I absolutely love all of Jeff’s book and this is no exception. I love the prequel we are getting to the Muirwood novels already. Also, in all his books the worlds are connected sometimes subtly and other times more in depth but this series really delves into how much they are connected and the history… this new series essentially ties together King Fountain, Mirrowen, Muirwood, and even the Grave Kingdom (references to it at least). His stories are so well written and interesting that he’s an auto buy/read author anytime he publishes a new work!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2023
This is the second book to The Druid, and it picks right up from there. Eilean’s powers have levelled up but she’s still conflicted. Its hard having feelings for someone who is hunting you- whether those feelings are admiration, or the longing of friendship. But as they heed their interpretations of the Medium's will, worlds collide.
The end of this book is amazing, and I cannot wait for the next!
The end of this book is amazing, and I cannot wait for the next!
March 20, 2024
I absolutely loved it! I’ve been on a Jeff Wheeler binge and all of it has come together in this wonderfully written book!
I’m loving all the nods to the other series and seeing how they’re connecting!
So much is going on and yet Jeff does a wonderful job weaving it all together and not making it confusing or overwhelming. I’m definitely excited for book 3!
I’m loving all the nods to the other series and seeing how they’re connecting!
So much is going on and yet Jeff does a wonderful job weaving it all together and not making it confusing or overwhelming. I’m definitely excited for book 3!
February 2, 2023
I wanted to like it. I enjoyed the first one. But this one was so steeped in the religious history of this world that I couldn't read it as fantasy anymore. It became LDS allegory. I'm not opposed to that, but I had really enjoyed how the first one didn't cross that line, so it was disappointing. Also, at the end the promise of a strong female lead just disintegrates into romantic tropes.
December 4, 2024
Era difícil que me gustase tanto como el primero pero estoy deseando que saquen el tercero.
September 20, 2022
First, this is book two (of three). While I have every appreciation for the brave readers who win ARC giveaways then offer honest reviews in advance of publication, dropping into the middle of this series as your first experience with the Dawning of Muirwood does the reader, and the work, no justice. Imagine Darth Vader's reveal to Luke (the oft misquoted, "No. I am your father.") without first having seen Episode IV, "A New Hope".
Full disclosure - I recieved an Advanced copy. I've read (to the best of my knowledge) every fantasy novel that Jeff Wheeler has published, and the majority of his published short stories. Its safe to say I am "a fan". That's good, and bad. I bring expectations to the work which color my reviews. That warning aside, I'll skip over the plot elements which fill most reviews, and stick to my impressions of matters of style and theme. There is the remote possibility that minor alterations in the text exist between the version I read and final publication.
Eilean remains the focus of this work, having gained considerably more power and confidence in working magic than is typical of book two in a Wheeler work. Its justified, in no small part, by the training she recieves and the nature of her trainer - but this remains one of the weakest parts of the book for me. Pacing as the nature of the world and the Powers within it at explicitly revealed is slow. I like my mysteries, the teasing out of hints and suggestions much as those who would work the Medium's will must listen for its whispers. Here, many secrets are laid bare. More, the latter portion of the work is sprinkled liberally with "magic words".
For many readers, such a choice of style would be welcome and perhaps even expected. My familiarity with Jeff's prior works trained me not to expect such words to be written out, except in the activation of certain rare magical items. Magic, most of the time, in the world of Muirwood is performative, not merely vocalized. The change here, common in more traditional fantasy novels, is not a style I am as enamoured of and largely accounts (together with early pacing) for my four star review.
The second critique is a matter of focus. Its Eilean's story, and told mostly from her point of view. But its also the groundwork of Hoel's redemption arc, and filled with other characters, such as Celyn, whose stories cry out to be told. As was the case in Wheeler's "First Argentines" series, I'd have liked to hear more of those voices, Hoel's particularly, as his part in this tale has been fated since the first book. Celyn's I think, should be a short story, but in any event, I found additional enjoyment in the scenes in which she appeared. "Secondary" and supporting characters are credible, with back stories hinted at, likely to fire the reader's imagination.
Pacing in the second half (probably 2/3, but felt like only half) picks up considerably, with fight scenes that convey (in a clean read, suitable for young adult readers) the violence, confusion, and urgency of deadly combat. There's magic of course, deception, the expected reveal, and some surprising little details.
All in all, this gets my recommend, with a few caveats for choices which would likely pass unremarked, or perhaps even be welcomed, by other readers, particularly those in the YA "target" audience. I remain hopeful to obtain an ARC of the third book "the Betrayed" when its available, but in any event, its my habit to purchase each book - ARC or not - on publication for a re-read. This series will be no different. I'm buying now that its release day.
Full disclosure - I recieved an Advanced copy. I've read (to the best of my knowledge) every fantasy novel that Jeff Wheeler has published, and the majority of his published short stories. Its safe to say I am "a fan". That's good, and bad. I bring expectations to the work which color my reviews. That warning aside, I'll skip over the plot elements which fill most reviews, and stick to my impressions of matters of style and theme. There is the remote possibility that minor alterations in the text exist between the version I read and final publication.
Eilean remains the focus of this work, having gained considerably more power and confidence in working magic than is typical of book two in a Wheeler work. Its justified, in no small part, by the training she recieves and the nature of her trainer - but this remains one of the weakest parts of the book for me. Pacing as the nature of the world and the Powers within it at explicitly revealed is slow. I like my mysteries, the teasing out of hints and suggestions much as those who would work the Medium's will must listen for its whispers. Here, many secrets are laid bare. More, the latter portion of the work is sprinkled liberally with "magic words".
For many readers, such a choice of style would be welcome and perhaps even expected. My familiarity with Jeff's prior works trained me not to expect such words to be written out, except in the activation of certain rare magical items. Magic, most of the time, in the world of Muirwood is performative, not merely vocalized. The change here, common in more traditional fantasy novels, is not a style I am as enamoured of and largely accounts (together with early pacing) for my four star review.
The second critique is a matter of focus. Its Eilean's story, and told mostly from her point of view. But its also the groundwork of Hoel's redemption arc, and filled with other characters, such as Celyn, whose stories cry out to be told. As was the case in Wheeler's "First Argentines" series, I'd have liked to hear more of those voices, Hoel's particularly, as his part in this tale has been fated since the first book. Celyn's I think, should be a short story, but in any event, I found additional enjoyment in the scenes in which she appeared. "Secondary" and supporting characters are credible, with back stories hinted at, likely to fire the reader's imagination.
Pacing in the second half (probably 2/3, but felt like only half) picks up considerably, with fight scenes that convey (in a clean read, suitable for young adult readers) the violence, confusion, and urgency of deadly combat. There's magic of course, deception, the expected reveal, and some surprising little details.
All in all, this gets my recommend, with a few caveats for choices which would likely pass unremarked, or perhaps even be welcomed, by other readers, particularly those in the YA "target" audience. I remain hopeful to obtain an ARC of the third book "the Betrayed" when its available, but in any event, its my habit to purchase each book - ARC or not - on publication for a re-read. This series will be no different. I'm buying now that its release day.
September 20, 2022
If you’re looking for a fast-paced sequel to “The Druid,” by Jeff Wheeler, you’ve come to the right place with “The Hunted,” the second book of the trilogy “The Dawning of Muirwood.”
Some trilogies suffer from the curse of the middle book, where the second in the series feels more like a placeholder than a worthy successor to the first book. Fortunately, “The Hunted” doesn’t fall into that category.
The action and tension begin not long into the first chapter and never really lets up. Assuming most people coming to “The Hunted” have already read “The Druid,” it’s not giving anything away to say that the trio we left at the end of the first book, now is in Hautland, hoping to connect with accused heretic Aldermaston Utheros.
At every step, Eilean, Celyn and Stright are hunted by Captain Hoel Evnissyen, and others, seeking to thwart Eilean and snatch the ancient tome she carries.
The book takes us on twists and turns as the three seek to fulfill the Druid Mordaunt’s wishes. We meet new characters, see relationships grow and, by the end, are sent on yet another journey, setting us up for the third book, “The Betrayed,” due out in February.
One thing Wheeler tends to do in all his books is use epigraphs at the start of his chapters to open a second window of action. In “The Hunted,” readers learn about the journey another character at Muirwood Abbey, even though our main trio never sets foot there.
Wheeler also rewards longtime readers of his books by sprinkling Easter eggs throughout that touch on places, people and things from his earlier series. For instance, at the end of “The Druid,” Eilean finds a sword and a scabbard engraved with a raven that would be familiar to anyone who has read the first “Kingfountain” trilogy or the later “First Argentine” series.
That doesn’t take anything away from the experience of first-time Wheeler readers. It’s more like a wink to those who are familiar with his other books. But during the months between now and the final book, newer readers could gain a depth of understanding by picking up just about any of Wheeler’s earlier series. Truly, it feels like he has woven a web with strings from nearly all of his series, with this latest trilogy at the center of it all.
Indeed, I’m wondering if Wheeler actually spoke about Eilean in an earlier series (not by name), but I guess I’ll have to wait for “The Betrayed” to find out.
Full disclosure, I received an early copy of the book to review it with the understanding that I would write an honest evaluation of the novel. I read the book fairly quickly, finding it hard to put down. For me, that’s the mark of a good page-turner. I look forward to seeing how Wheeler ties it all together in third and final book.
Some trilogies suffer from the curse of the middle book, where the second in the series feels more like a placeholder than a worthy successor to the first book. Fortunately, “The Hunted” doesn’t fall into that category.
The action and tension begin not long into the first chapter and never really lets up. Assuming most people coming to “The Hunted” have already read “The Druid,” it’s not giving anything away to say that the trio we left at the end of the first book, now is in Hautland, hoping to connect with accused heretic Aldermaston Utheros.
At every step, Eilean, Celyn and Stright are hunted by Captain Hoel Evnissyen, and others, seeking to thwart Eilean and snatch the ancient tome she carries.
The book takes us on twists and turns as the three seek to fulfill the Druid Mordaunt’s wishes. We meet new characters, see relationships grow and, by the end, are sent on yet another journey, setting us up for the third book, “The Betrayed,” due out in February.
One thing Wheeler tends to do in all his books is use epigraphs at the start of his chapters to open a second window of action. In “The Hunted,” readers learn about the journey another character at Muirwood Abbey, even though our main trio never sets foot there.
Wheeler also rewards longtime readers of his books by sprinkling Easter eggs throughout that touch on places, people and things from his earlier series. For instance, at the end of “The Druid,” Eilean finds a sword and a scabbard engraved with a raven that would be familiar to anyone who has read the first “Kingfountain” trilogy or the later “First Argentine” series.
That doesn’t take anything away from the experience of first-time Wheeler readers. It’s more like a wink to those who are familiar with his other books. But during the months between now and the final book, newer readers could gain a depth of understanding by picking up just about any of Wheeler’s earlier series. Truly, it feels like he has woven a web with strings from nearly all of his series, with this latest trilogy at the center of it all.
Indeed, I’m wondering if Wheeler actually spoke about Eilean in an earlier series (not by name), but I guess I’ll have to wait for “The Betrayed” to find out.
Full disclosure, I received an early copy of the book to review it with the understanding that I would write an honest evaluation of the novel. I read the book fairly quickly, finding it hard to put down. For me, that’s the mark of a good page-turner. I look forward to seeing how Wheeler ties it all together in third and final book.
November 25, 2022
Every time I read a Jeff Wheeler book, I marvel at how I get so swept up into his world (they're all set more or less in the same one, or rather the same interconnected series of worlds, on a timeline I've never been clearly able to define.) All of his main characters are the same ordinary, courageous heroes whose defining characteristic is their integrity, but there is nothing otherwise remarkable about them. I think this is important because I once heard someone say (maybe it was Jeff Wheeler!) that the more fantastical your world is, the more vanilla, "everyman" your main character must be in order to still be relatable. I think it's the fictional equivalent of the concept that stripes don't mix with a floral pattern or it becomes too "busy." But because of this, I don't think I could even name which of his main characters go with which book or series, nor could I ever recount the specific plots of any of them after I finish reading them. And yet I somehow always zip through them, thoroughly engrossed. Why? What is it about them, when neither character nor plot is especially memorable?
One thing that is consistent in each story that I absolutely love, is how the main characters and their mentors quote the Bible without calling it the Bible (they call it the "tomes), and teach Biblical values in a way that doesn't come off at all preachy. The stories are too intricate and complex to have been created as pure morality tales, and I don't at all feel like I'm being patronized, even though I know the way I phrased that, it sounds that way. Instead, they're instructive. Wheeler's books remind me a bit of the way Jordan Peterson describes Dostoyevsky's characters: they're not just entertaining characters, they're a study in human psychology. You become vicariously wiser by reading Dostoyevsky's fiction, or at least Peterson thinks so. That's how I feel about Wheeler's stories. They seem "important," in a way that pure entertainment could never be.
I realize I've said nothing about this actual book, though. It's a continuation of "The Druid," and it's a middle book- the last isn't out yet. Often that's frustrating, to read partway through a series and have to stop for months at a time, but because all the books blend together, somehow with Wheeler's books it doesn't bother me nearly so much.
One thing that is consistent in each story that I absolutely love, is how the main characters and their mentors quote the Bible without calling it the Bible (they call it the "tomes), and teach Biblical values in a way that doesn't come off at all preachy. The stories are too intricate and complex to have been created as pure morality tales, and I don't at all feel like I'm being patronized, even though I know the way I phrased that, it sounds that way. Instead, they're instructive. Wheeler's books remind me a bit of the way Jordan Peterson describes Dostoyevsky's characters: they're not just entertaining characters, they're a study in human psychology. You become vicariously wiser by reading Dostoyevsky's fiction, or at least Peterson thinks so. That's how I feel about Wheeler's stories. They seem "important," in a way that pure entertainment could never be.
I realize I've said nothing about this actual book, though. It's a continuation of "The Druid," and it's a middle book- the last isn't out yet. Often that's frustrating, to read partway through a series and have to stop for months at a time, but because all the books blend together, somehow with Wheeler's books it doesn't bother me nearly so much.
June 7, 2023
Firstly a disclaimer: Do not read the back cover of the book!! It contains spoilers, which is quite annoying.
After being captivated by the first book, I could not help but order the remaining two books of the trilogy immediately after and could not wait to jump right back into Eilean's journey. But oh I was so disappointed.
In a nutshell I loved the first book so much and I wanted to love this one too but all the charm of "The Druid" is missing or poorly executed in "The Hunted". The story is spoonfed and overly predicatble, the characters shallow and nonsensical, lack of action and development, such a slow pace for a 2nd part of a trilogy. Ended up feeling like a filler episode. I will pick up the third book with worry & hope.
After being captivated by the first book, I could not help but order the remaining two books of the trilogy immediately after and could not wait to jump right back into Eilean's journey. But oh I was so disappointed.
In a nutshell I loved the first book so much and I wanted to love this one too but all the charm of "The Druid" is missing or poorly executed in "The Hunted". The story is spoonfed and overly predicatble, the characters shallow and nonsensical, lack of action and development, such a slow pace for a 2nd part of a trilogy. Ended up feeling like a filler episode. I will pick up the third book with worry & hope.
October 1, 2025
This is a very good continuation of the first book.
The epigraphs are written by Sivart Gilifil, Aldermaston of Muirwood Abbey. Through his writings, we learn that Mordaunt has escaped his cell, though has not left the labyrinth tunnels of the abbey throughout the winter. Then Sivart learns the very hard way the consequences of keeping his inability to Heal a secret for so long, the consequences of his greed. And, IMO, he is truly repentant of his actions.
Meanwhile, Eilean and Celyn were posing as a lady and her maid, trying to get an invitation from the castle before Hoel finds them. Stright, who is secretly with them, thinks he has found a way in. Seeing Celyn and Stright dance around each other is adorable, especially when they admit their feelings for each other (which fortunately is early enough).
While Hoel has found them, they are able to escape his grasp (fortuantely without killing him, for which Eilean is grateful though doesn't understand why she is happy she has never had to kill him). They sneak in the castle to meet Aldermaston Utheros--and eventually Prince Derik--both of whom learn that Eilean is a wretched.
Throughout the story, Eileans use of The Medium increases, and we learn more of the magic system overall. It's great continuous worldbuilding.
Too, we also get a new magical creature Stright trusts, called a púca. It makes me thing of a more sentient hippogriff (though cuter).
As the winter progresses, the five, along with Derik's translators, struggle with Mordaunt's tome. Eilean makes the decision to go to Cruix Abbey once winter ends, and Celyn is determined to go with her. Both women feel power commands from the Medium at different times, and I really like the innate trust they have in their beliefs. Especially when Eilean is warned to keep Hoel from harm.
At Cruix Abbey, Eilean seeks out Aldermaston Kalbraeth, who knows more than it seems at first, and is determined to help Eilean become a maston...especially because he feels she is essentially the chosen one to guide the maston order from destruction.
I do feel like some of the sentences could have used polishing, but even by 25% in, I feel like the story holds up extremely well and only gets better.
Things become very intesnes and yes, I will be reading the third book.
The epigraphs are written by Sivart Gilifil, Aldermaston of Muirwood Abbey. Through his writings, we learn that Mordaunt has escaped his cell, though has not left the labyrinth tunnels of the abbey throughout the winter. Then Sivart learns the very hard way the consequences of keeping his inability to Heal a secret for so long, the consequences of his greed. And, IMO, he is truly repentant of his actions.
Meanwhile, Eilean and Celyn were posing as a lady and her maid, trying to get an invitation from the castle before Hoel finds them. Stright, who is secretly with them, thinks he has found a way in. Seeing Celyn and Stright dance around each other is adorable, especially when they admit their feelings for each other (which fortunately is early enough).
While Hoel has found them, they are able to escape his grasp (fortuantely without killing him, for which Eilean is grateful though doesn't understand why she is happy she has never had to kill him). They sneak in the castle to meet Aldermaston Utheros--and eventually Prince Derik--both of whom learn that Eilean is a wretched.
Throughout the story, Eileans use of The Medium increases, and we learn more of the magic system overall. It's great continuous worldbuilding.
Too, we also get a new magical creature Stright trusts, called a púca. It makes me thing of a more sentient hippogriff (though cuter).
As the winter progresses, the five, along with Derik's translators, struggle with Mordaunt's tome. Eilean makes the decision to go to Cruix Abbey once winter ends, and Celyn is determined to go with her. Both women feel power commands from the Medium at different times, and I really like the innate trust they have in their beliefs. Especially when Eilean is warned to keep Hoel from harm.
At Cruix Abbey, Eilean seeks out Aldermaston Kalbraeth, who knows more than it seems at first, and is determined to help Eilean become a maston...especially because he feels she is essentially the chosen one to guide the maston order from destruction.
I do feel like some of the sentences could have used polishing, but even by 25% in, I feel like the story holds up extremely well and only gets better.
Things become very intesnes and yes, I will be reading the third book.
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