Hunted

Oct 16, 2011 Alexa Yupangco rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011-all-stars

(Review originally posted on Alexa Loves Books)

I'm sitting here, having finished this novel a mere five minutes ago, and I am still stunned. The novel was intense and gripping; I could not put it down once I'd started it. And the story was just so incredibly powerful - I found myself truly agreeing with the message I sensed being propagated through it. I'm still trying to come up with more words to describe this book but all that comes to mind is awesome, amazing, inspired and just really brilli...more (Review originally posted on Alexa Loves Books)

I'm sitting here, having finished this novel a mere five minutes ago, and I am still stunned. The novel was intense and gripping; I could not put it down once I'd started it. And the story was just so incredibly powerful - I found myself truly agreeing with the message I sensed being propagated through it. I'm still trying to come up with more words to describe this book but all that comes to mind is awesome, amazing, inspired and just really brilliant!

The premise is one I've seen played out before - discrimination towards people and the resulting cruelty. In this novel, people known as Paras are getting persecuted for their abilities and talents that set them apart from the Normals. It was heartbreaking to read about the crazy levels of loathing, fear, hatred and discrimination that most Normals had against Paras. I personally found it all distasteful, unreasonable and I could appreciate the presence of pro-Para activists and movements myself. But what stands out to me is the fact that I was so drawn into the story that I could even go so far as to feel as strongly as I did about the Paras.

I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters in the book because the way Ms. Rainfield wrote them immediately brought them to life. I loved our strong, fearless and intensely good narrator Caitlyn best of all, but it was a treat to meet Alex (swoon-worthy!), Rachel (the amazingly loyal best friend), Caitlyn's mom (there is NOTHING stronger than a mother's love) and Mrs. Vespa (how awesome is it that a librarian plays an important role in this story?). Each character I've mentioned is one that I came to know and care about as I read the book.

It is also important to note that Ms. Rainfield paints a scary, intimidating portrait of the bad guys too. I found myself frightened, intimidated and so shocked by their brutality and cruelty. However, I do like how she also shows us some vulnerability and, in a way, allows us to see the root of all this chosen action.

Honestly, this is one extremely awesome book. It's not just an exciting, intense paranormal thriller; it's a book with a message. And, as far as I can tell, the message is this: everyone, no matter their race, colors, status or abilities, has the right to live unafraid, in peace and, most important of all, free. Everyone should be treated equally. I feel that we should all be unafraid to stand up for this basic right, just as the characters in the book do when demonstrate their loyalty and stand up for what they believe in.

This book is amazing - so you better go and pick it up when it hits the shelves on October 27, 2011.(less)

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Feb 23, 2012 Ellen rated it 4 of 5 stars

Hunted by Cheryl Rainfield is a unique reading experience. If you enjoy dystopian and the paranormal, then you will enjoy Hunted. Caitlyn lives in a society where she and others like her are persecuted for being different, for being paranormals. She lost her father in a riot when she was young, and her brother disappeared at the same time. She and her mother have been on the run, moving from place to place, to avoid being captured and Caitlyn being forced into a harsh and painful life of servitu...more

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Apr 21, 2012 Blue rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, ebook-galleys, sci-fi, paranormal

Originally posted here!

I really loved this book. It begins normally – as normal as a Paranormal can be, anyway – but towards the middle I just got sucked into the story, which I really love. The conflict feels so real, and I can imagine all the events playing out in my mind, bringing out unique images as I try to visualize Caitlyn’s powers. I really feel bad that I can’t articulate everything I feel for this book. I didn’t expect much, to be honest – I hardly knew what to expect. I gathered that...more Originally posted here!

I really loved this book. It begins normally – as normal as a Paranormal can be, anyway – but towards the middle I just got sucked into the story, which I really love. The conflict feels so real, and I can imagine all the events playing out in my mind, bringing out unique images as I try to visualize Caitlyn’s powers. I really feel bad that I can’t articulate everything I feel for this book. I didn’t expect much, to be honest – I hardly knew what to expect. I gathered that it’s sci-fi and young adult, but those genres are so broad and cover a lot of premises that I couldn’t let myself imagine what it’s going to really be like, despite the blurbs from Goodreads and NetGalley. Reading Hunted reminded me so much of the X-Men, who were shunned for having powers, despite being the logical next stage in the evolutionary process and could have done a lot to, you know, make the world a better place if you are actually nice to them. This association made me appreciate this work more, and led me to think about a lot of things. It’s another of the reasons why I really liked this book.

I guess the thing that really made me like Hunted was how this could be reflected in society today, in so many ways. (Okay, let me warn you. This is the part where I get all analytical and try to connect everything with life. You have been warned.) Paras (short for Paranormals) are treated like pariahs because they have powers, but most of all, because they are different. Because they are not normal. Cycles all throughout history have shown humanity doing this over and over again. Look at the Holocaust. The burning of people just because they were black. The suicides committed by teenagers who are queer because of how intense the bullyings are. I am not a Jew, nor am I black, nor am I gay, but reading how most of the Normals treated the Paras just because of how different they are really made an impact on me. For all we know, there are people being tortured somewhere in the world just for being different from the rest. It’s entirely plausible. The author writes about these issues in the subliminal level, but towards the book there are hotlines that offer help for victims of bullying that are really helpful. It enhances the message she hopes to send to people through the novel, which is a brilliant idea.

Hunted was amazing. Whew. And for a book to make me think that much, I salute you, Cheryl Rainfield!(less)

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Dec 09, 2011 G. Donald Cribbs rated it 5 of 5 stars

I was thrilled to get a chance to read Hunted, having recently read Scars (also by Cheryl), and being blown away by that story. Cheryl does it again, and drew me into the world of Caitlyn, a teen with mental telepathy (she can read minds and make suggestions that results in a potentially manipulative effect).

The tension resulting from being on the run immediately drew me into the story. I loved the role reversal in the relationship of Caitlyn and her mom. Her mother's powers are mysteriously sup...more I was thrilled to get a chance to read Hunted, having recently read Scars (also by Cheryl), and being blown away by that story. Cheryl does it again, and drew me into the world of Caitlyn, a teen with mental telepathy (she can read minds and make suggestions that results in a potentially manipulative effect).

The tension resulting from being on the run immediately drew me into the story. I loved the role reversal in the relationship of Caitlyn and her mom. Her mother's powers are mysteriously suppressed and the why is only revealed later on in the story. It creates a strange closeness and dependance of the mother upon her daughter's powers to protect them from being caught, and a distance because of the mother's suppressed powers.

I was reminded of such stories as FIRESTARTER (by Stephen King) and other familiar dystopian novels I've read lately (DIVERGENT, THE HUNGER GAMES, UGLIES). These were positive comparisons. Cheryl does not steer clear of the tough issues presented here, and while strongly portrayed, I did not feel it overwhelmed the story. Rather, I felt the issues of acceptance, diversity, celebrating our differences added to the development of Caitlyn's plight.

Cheryl created an excellent, modern day love triangle between Caitlyn and Alex and Rachel. While Caitlyn does not mislead Rachel's interest in her as "more than a friend," Caitlyn accepts Rachel for who she is and Rachel accepts that Caitlyn is straight. In fact, Rachel encourages Caitlyn in her interest with Alex, even though it conflicts her. I liked that Alex's ethnicity was not pointed out right away, allowing the reader to identify potential prejudice in the way we judge/perceive/pigeonhole others when we meet them. Whether in the pages of a book or in real life, these are the REAL ISSUES that teens face today. I love how I identified with the message of HUNTED, and I'd recommend this as a great read to anyone.

This is the first paranormal book I've read. I love the crossover with the mystery of the Para Reaper and the surprising antagonist, a government controlled para who presents himself differently at first. I also enjoyed the dystopian world, and was pulled in by the way Cheryl incorporates the use of Caitlyn's powers in dialogue, in her relationships with others, and in various plot developments along the way. I was so captivated, I could not put the book down and rushed to read all the way to the end.

Fortunately for all of us, this is the first book in a series, perhaps a trilogy or quartet (if I get my wish). I could easily see this as a movie, and will dream of the day when that becomes a reality. I've already started casting it in my mind.

I believe you will enjoy this book, and I give it at least 5 stars. Cheryl does an amazing job of cliffhanger chapters and a pace that will keep you breathless, on the run and feeling just as HUNTED as Caitlyn. I was satisfied with the ending, but wanted more. I'm thrilled to know Cheryl is currently at work on the sequel.

Give HUNTED a read, and post your thoughts here. I hope this review helps you in your decision to give it a try.(less)

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Apr 15, 2012 Emily (Book Jems) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: released, young-adult, dystopian, blog-tours, kindle, paranormal, romance, science-fiction, action, adventure, fantasy, suspense

As seen on Ed and Em's Reviews!

3.5 Stars!

I really enjoyed Hunted. The plot was incredibly and uniquely captivating. It kept my interest until the very end.

There were some parts where I felt the book was about to the end due to the phrasing, but there was actually like fifty percent more left in the book. That was a bit annoying, but didn't really distract me from wanting to finish the book.

There are a few shocks n this books that weren't really "shocking." And although the writing was great, the...more As seen on Ed and Em's Reviews!

3.5 Stars!

I really enjoyed Hunted. The plot was incredibly and uniquely captivating. It kept my interest until the very end.

There were some parts where I felt the book was about to the end due to the phrasing, but there was actually like fifty percent more left in the book. That was a bit annoying, but didn't really distract me from wanting to finish the book.

There are a few shocks n this books that weren't really "shocking." And although the writing was great, the "shockers" could've been better with some subtle tweaks. The timing seemed longer than it actually was. What I thought was a month, was actually a week. That was annoying for me because time settings are really important to me.

And the time setting of this novel does not match the way it is written. Ms. Rainfield tries to project time moving quickly, but the plot often felt slow, which is why I felt that it had been a month. It needed a lot more structure in that area.

The narrator is really easy to read from though. She's not your average teenager. She has powers and has to keep them hidden for her safety and the safety of her mother. Again, the plot was so cool! There are so many dystopian novels being released that many of them have started to run together. This was a much different experience. While the plot was very interesting, I had a lot of trouble connecting with some of the characters. I didn't really like Alex, and I had some trouble liking Caitlyn, the main character, after a while. She was very repetitive and at parts, too whiny for my taste. Caitlyn's mother really annoyed me. She was a typical single parent that had a hard time taking responsibility and being a parent. Rachel was definitely my favorite character. She brought a lot to the story and she was a great friend to Caitlyn.

The last few chapters were amazing. They really tied up the novel well, though there is definitely room for a sequel! I couldn't put the book down for the last scenes of this story. They were written brilliantly and made reading through my pet peeves totally worth it!

Cheryl Rainfield does a great job with the writing. The expressionism is perfect for this young adult novel. Some authors have trouble keeping up the a teenager focused plot, but Ms. Rainfield does not have that problem. Very refreshing. With just a little tweaking and a bit of expansion, this book would be a five star novel for me. Though it had some troubles, it was still a great read.

If you haven't already, you should definitely give this paranormal dystopian a shot!

I received a free e-copy of this novel for a blog tour in exchange for my honest review.(less)

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Jan 06, 2012 Leiah rated it 4 of 5 stars

Review can also be found at http://whatchyareading.net/2012/01/04...

There are a lot of paranormal novels out there in the YA market. A lot of dystopia too. I want to read them all! I love both of those genres so much, so when I got the chance to read Hunted by Cheryl Rainfeld, a book that has both of these in spades, I jumped at the chance.

Caitlyn is a telepath in a world where that is illegal. She is on the run from the government troopers. When she falls for Alex, a Normal, and discovers dange...more Review can also be found at http://whatchyareading.net/2012/01/04...

There are a lot of paranormal novels out there in the YA market. A lot of dystopia too. I want to read them all! I love both of those genres so much, so when I got the chance to read Hunted by Cheryl Rainfeld, a book that has both of these in spades, I jumped at the chance.

Caitlyn is a telepath in a world where that is illegal. She is on the run from the government troopers. When she falls for Alex, a Normal, and discovers dangerous renegade Paranormals, she must choose between staying in hiding to protect herself, or taking a stand to save the world.

-Summary from author’s website

Not one to shy away from writing about difficult or controversial topics, Cheryl tackles several within her newest novel, Hunted. The protagonist, Caitlyn, has suffered the loss of a sibling and parent and is under the constant threat of a dystopian government and their cult-like followers wanting her, a “Para,” and those like her, dead. She and her mother are on the run and the stress of everything is about ready to do them both in. There is danger for them right from the very start of the book and all the way through. It never lets up. This constant threat draws you into Caitlyn’s life and allows you to see that, while some of her decisions might not be the wisest, she’s doing the best that she can under the circumstances.

I was drawn into the dark world Cheryl created and easily saw the parallels to disenfranchised communities within our own society. The power of legislating against those that are “different” is a very slippery slope and in Caitlyn’s world it’s turned deadly for Paras and their supporters. Other issues such as bigotry toward homosexuality and bi-racial relationships are also touched upon and woven into the storyline excellently and without the feeling of “token” placement.

Hunted is four hundred pages long and a lot happens within those pages, a lot, but I never felt like the story dragged. It actually reads really quickly. As Caitlyn discovers more about herself and those around her, we get to see it all through the eyes of a girl who discovers who she really is and what believing in herself, and allowing others in who believe in you too, can achieve. I liked Caitlyn immediately and rooted for her the entire book. The supporting cast of characters are well-written too. There is a great mix of “goodies” and “baddies” and you don’t necessarily know who’s what. Gah! The tension never lets up, I tell you!

I don’t feel like it’s a spoiler to tell you that there isn’t a wicked cliffhanger at the end of the story. I feel like I’m doing you a service, not that there isn’t plenty of story left if Cheryl decides to write more, but you won’t be “WTF’ing” at the end. If you enjoy a strong, female protagonist, mixed with paranormal powers and dystopia, you should check out Hunted. It’s a faced-paced paranormal that will keep you guessing until the end.

-ecopy of book provided by the author for review.(less)

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Dec 27, 2011 Stephanie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-read-in-2011

I am a big fan of paranormal YA books and Cheryl did a wonderful job encapsulating all of the basics of a great paranormal book!

Caitlyn is a para, which is basically a person who has any kind of 'extra' powers. The book starts off with Caitlyn and her Mom on the run from the Normals, those without power, and ends up close to the city...a place where paras can hide. Immediately Caitlyn is challenged at her new school because they are VERY prejudiced against anything that isn't Normal and they ha...more I am a big fan of paranormal YA books and Cheryl did a wonderful job encapsulating all of the basics of a great paranormal book!

Caitlyn is a para, which is basically a person who has any kind of 'extra' powers. The book starts off with Caitlyn and her Mom on the run from the Normals, those without power, and ends up close to the city...a place where paras can hide. Immediately Caitlyn is challenged at her new school because they are VERY prejudiced against anything that isn't Normal and they have Para warning posters all over there school. Reminded me a lot of segregation and/or the red scare...that whole paranoia over the unknown and using fear to manipulate people... Anyways. Caitlyn falls for a guy (African-American descent) and makes her first friend (a lesbian). I use these descriptions because a lot of the book revolves around the characters using their prejudices and behaviors of those who are prejudiced as a tool to try to create change.

Caitlyn discovers she isn't the only Para at the school and learns about a dangerous Para renegade squad...she has to try to protect herself and her friends and also stand up for what she believes in.

Sometimes, yes, the message was a little forced. But it didn't detract from the point of the story and you found yourself cheering for Caitlyn and Rachel when they had their snide comments to the bullies or the lectures about not judging others. BUT this story did what others that I've read failed to do and that is really put forth a message that the biggest problem in society isn't drugs, alcohol, or those things that we try to cram down our teens throats, but instead acceptance. Acceptance of the unknown, of things that you may not agree with but it's not your place to judge, acceptance of each other as human beings just trying to make your place in this world.

It was a great paranormal YA story but it was a more powerful message bringer to the masses and Cheryl crafted it so well that the message will not be missed and the point is sure to be made.
S (less)

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May 21, 2012 Wendy Orr rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy-literature, ya-fiction, young-adult-fiction

A gripping, multi-layered pageturner, Hunted draws the reader into the world of a reviled underclass - in this case anyone with paranormal or telepathic abilities - and examines the fear of living in a world of extreme societal prejudice. Although there are clear parallels with the Holocaust, it also resonates on the more individual level of anyone who lives with the fear of revealing who they really are.

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Mar 09, 2012 Patricia marked it as mine-to-read

Shelves: source-author-or-publisher

I want a copy, but I can't afford one right now. *sigh* Damn. I wish I had a review copy of Hunted. Give me one. If you read this (you being anybody) GIVE. ME. A. COPY. OF. THIS. BOOK.

ETA

So, there is this awesome person and she wrote the author and I just got a review copy. o.o

This is why I love Goodreads, and authors, and bookbloggers, and Twitter, and the Internet. Because you beg people to give you something and they actually do it.

THANK YOU AMY and thank you Miss Rainfield!! ♥

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Mar 06, 2013 Romancing the Book rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya, suspense

Review: Imagine being on the run for your life. Imagine being only 15 years old and unable to trust anyone and knowing that there are people all around you that want you to suffer horribly. Imagine the only thing that you have done “wrong” is being born with a psychic ability. This is exactly what Caitlyn must endure as her and her mother run from the Government and ParaTroopers whose only goal is to capture and enslave all Paranormals.

Caitlyn had lost her father years ago during a riot, at the...more Review: Imagine being on the run for your life. Imagine being only 15 years old and unable to trust anyone and knowing that there are people all around you that want you to suffer horribly. Imagine the only thing that you have done “wrong” is being born with a psychic ability. This is exactly what Caitlyn must endure as her and her mother run from the Government and ParaTroopers whose only goal is to capture and enslave all Paranormals.

Caitlyn had lost her father years ago during a riot, at the same time her brother disappears. Life on the run and never being allowed to stay in one place for very long is taking a toll on both Caitlyn and her mother. On top of everything else, Caitlyn’s mom’s psychic ability abandoned her the day of the riots, leaving Caitlyn to feel even more isolated.

Hope that Normals and Paras can ever coincide peacefully together is a thinning thread. However when Caitlyn meets Alex she feels an instant connection, even though he is a Normal and relationships between the two is nearly impossible. It is with his help as well as the help of another new friend, Rachel, which Caitlyn learns exactly what she is capable of and the level of strength and courage she possesses.

Filled with twists, turns and endless surprises, Hunted is a story that takes readers on an adventure of suspense and eye-opening awareness of discrimination and isolation. Toss in disloyalty, betrayal, loyalty and a bit of romance and readers have a story that they will quickly and easily loose themselves within.

Hunted by Cheryl Rainfield is an excellent story that I greatly enjoyed. Ms. Rainfield presented a tale that was unique from many of the other YA novels out there on the market today. For lovers of paranormal, YA and/or just a great story, Hunted is the perfect story to settle in with. The character of Caitlyn truly made the story and I loved her strength and courage. Ms. Rainfield did an excellent job of bringing her, as well as Alex and the entire cast of characters vividly to life upon the pages on Hunted. I highly recommend Hunted and can’t wait to read more from Cheryl Rainfield.

Quote: He’s standing, head thrown back, full lips curved in a wide-open smile. His skin contrasts with his crisp white shirt. Narrow copper bracelets glint along one of his arms. He’s so gorgeous, he must already be taken. But it’s his laughter that’s the best. It feels clean and pure, with no hidden malice or cruelty – just joy. I haven’t heard laughter like that in such a long time. It makes me want to laugh with him, to find the world beautiful.

Reviewed by: April
Book provided by: Publisher
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book(less)

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May 08, 2012 Easily Mused rated it 5 of 5 stars

Hunted is an intense read from start to finish, packing the trifecta of awesome you want in a paranormal dystopian novel: action, suspense, romance. There are no slow parts to Caitlyn’s story–the ride is taut with suspense and action, and the even pacing will keep you reading. Cheryl Rainfield scores big for Originality, lending believability to the paranormal world she so seamlessly creates in Hunted. She also gets high points for Characterization, giving her characters the kind of depth that m...more

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May 06, 2012 Becket Morgan rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya-fiction, own

Caitlyn has never known a normal life. Following the death of her father in the hands of a mob and the disappearance of her brother, she and her mother have lived a life on the run. Moving from town to town, Caitlyn is hunted by government agents who have the power to enslave or kill her, or force her to use her telepath powers against other Paranormals. When someone in the Paranormal underground betrays Caitlyn's location to the government, she must fight to stay safe without any support from o...more Caitlyn has never known a normal life. Following the death of her father in the hands of a mob and the disappearance of her brother, she and her mother have lived a life on the run. Moving from town to town, Caitlyn is hunted by government agents who have the power to enslave or kill her, or force her to use her telepath powers against other Paranormals. When someone in the Paranormal underground betrays Caitlyn's location to the government, she must fight to stay safe without any support from other Paras. Continuing her father's battle to help Normals (those without paranormal abilities) and Paranormals coexist peacefully, she must stand up not only to her enemies, but to those close to her to fight for what she believes in.

Rainfield's Hunted is a compelling and provocative novel which kept me riveted from start to finish. Often in the world of young adult fiction, there is a difficult balance between an age appropriate storyline and engaging adventure elements. Rainfield manages this balance with precision and an underlying cohesion that keeps the reader engaged from the very first page. I'm a huge fan of stories with a strong female protagonist, particularly in the current sea of Bella Swan-type vapid teens, and Caitlyn definitely doesn't disappoint. Dealing with the loss of her father and brother and trying to trust in a world working against her at every turn, she continues to fight for her beliefs no matter what obstacles she encounters.

At the conclusion of the story Rainfield references that the book draws upon the author's own experiences as a ritual abuse survivor. While I find this a fascinating detail and am glad she included additional references for further research, I didn't make the connection while reading the story. Certainly there are situations of abuse and fear-based control, but I'm not sure I would have made the correlation to ritual abuse without her reference.

In Hunted, Rainfield gives us a compelling, fascinating story complete with a fabulous protagonist and the very best of both fantasy and adventure fiction. I'm eager to read more from her in the future.(less)

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Apr 16, 2012 Rachel Marks rated it 5 of 5 stars

The Hunted, is possibly one of the best dystopian young adult novels that I have ever read. It is such a unique story that speaks volumes about our society and our prejudices that I think this is a story that everyone needs to read. It will truly leave you breathless and awe inspired.

Caitlyn and her mom are on the run from persecution brought on from the fact that they are different in their society, they are Paras. Paras are humans that have paranormal abilities and they are persecuted and hate...more

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Mar 20, 2012 Whatchyareading added it

Shelves: leiah, paranormal, young-adult

There are a lot of paranormal novels out there in the YA market. A lot of dystopia too. I want to read them all! I love both of those genres so much, so when I got the chance to read Hunted by Cheryl Rainfeld, a book that has both of these in spades, I jumped at the chance.

Not one to shy away from writing about difficult or controversial topics, Cheryl tackles several within her newest novel, Hunted. The protagonist, Caitlyn, has suffered the loss of a sibling and parent and is under the constan...more There are a lot of paranormal novels out there in the YA market. A lot of dystopia too. I want to read them all! I love both of those genres so much, so when I got the chance to read Hunted by Cheryl Rainfeld, a book that has both of these in spades, I jumped at the chance.

Not one to shy away from writing about difficult or controversial topics, Cheryl tackles several within her newest novel, Hunted. The protagonist, Caitlyn, has suffered the loss of a sibling and parent and is under the constant threat of a dystopian government and their cult-like followers wanting her, a “Para,” and those like her, dead. She and her mother are on the run and the stress of everything is about ready to do them both in. There is danger for them right from the very start of the book and all the way through. It never lets up. This constant threat draws you into Caitlyn’s life and allows you to see that, while some of her decisions might not be the wisest, she’s doing the best that she can under the circumstances.

I was drawn into the dark world Cheryl created and easily saw the parallels to disenfranchised communities within our own society. The power of legislating against those that are “different” is a very slippery slope and in Caitlyn’s world it’s turned deadly for Paras and their supporters. Other issues such as bigotry toward homosexuality and bi-racial relationships are also touched upon and woven into the storyline excellently and without the feeling of “token” placement.

Hunted is four hundred pages long and a lot happens within those pages, a lot, but I never felt like the story dragged. It actually reads really quickly. As Caitlyn discovers more about herself and those around her, we get to see it all through the eyes of a girl who discovers who she really is and what believing in herself, and allowing others in who believe in you too, can achieve. I liked Caitlyn immediately and rooted for her the entire book. The supporting cast of characters are well-written too. There is a great mix of “goodies” and “baddies” and you don’t necessarily know who’s what. Gah! The tension never lets up, I tell you!

I don’t feel like it’s a spoiler to tell you that there isn’t a wicked cliffhanger at the end of the story. I feel like I’m doing you a service, not that there isn’t plenty of story left if Cheryl decides to write more, but you won’t be “WTF’ing” at the end. If you enjoy a strong, female protagonist, mixed with paranormal powers and dystopia, you should check out Hunted. It’s a faced-paced paranormal that will keep you guessing until the end.

Reviewed at WhatchYAreading on January 4, 2012.(less)

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Feb 24, 2012 Amy Jacobs rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-own

After reading the synopsis on this book, I was intrigued by the fresh take in the supernatural. It was different than what is out on shelves at the moment, and gives the reader a chance to step back from the norm of paranormal involving vampires and such.

Caitlyn and her mother are Paras. Any type of paranormal power is illegal and comes with dire consequences if discovered. Para Troopers hunt them and get rid of anyone with any sort of paranormal powers. Caitlyn has already lost her Dad to the...more

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Feb 12, 2012 Lorca Damon rated it 5 of 5 stars

Let me preface by saying this...I don't really relate to paranormal fiction. I'm not a fantasy or sci-fi fan. I'm not against the genre, it's just not my thing. Okay, I did roll my eyes at this one book when the vampire started to sparkle. It's just not my kind of book.

So why am I reviewing Hunted? Because I heard such great things about it and it did not disappoint. Somehow, Rainfield makes you completely believe that there's a world where genetically different paranormal people are being perse...more

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Jan 02, 2012 Paula Phillips rated it 5 of 5 stars

Have you read Scars by Cheryl Rainfield ? If, so then you will know that her books hold that little bit extra to them , a part that sets them apart from the rest of the normal dystopian , edgy content, supernatural books that we read in today's society. Her books all come with an underlying issue or issues in this case that exist in today's world and amongst not only our teens but adults as well. Issues like Racism, Sexuality, Torture.
Hunted takes us into a society that has become Anti-Para - t...more

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Jan 01, 2012 Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: action-adventure, contemporary, non-erotic, paranormal, science-fiction-fantasy, young-adult

Originally posted at: http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...

Welcome to a world where you have to hide what you are; if they find out you have paranormal powers, they will make you a slave!

One of my worst nightmares is about hiding from someone trying to get me. I have them over and over again with different circumstances each time. That was why I had to request this book for review. And it certainly didn’t disappoint me.

Caitlyn and her mother have been in hiding for a long time. Her father was...more

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Dec 16, 2011 Kemari rated it 5 of 5 stars

If you liked The Hunger Games, you'll love Hunted.

Hunted is an intense read from start to finish, packing the trifecta of awesome you want in a paranormal dystopian novel: action, suspense, romance. There are no slow parts to Caitlyn’s story–the ride is taut with suspense and action, and the even pacing will keep you reading. Cheryl Rainfield scores big for originality, lending believability to the paranormal world she so seamlessly creates in Hunted. She also gets high points for characterizati...more

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Dec 05, 2011 Krystal rated it 4 of 5 stars

Looking for an exciting, action-packed novel for Christmas? This book just might be for you. The author introduces the reader into a world where there is heavy discrimination against Paras (Paranormals) and people are forced to hide their true identities and, for lack of a better phrase, live a lie. Caitlyn is the main character and a telepath. She must hide her talents are face persecution. Alex, the love interest, is a Normal. Alex also just happens to be handsome, charismatic, and seemingly k...more

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Dec 30, 2011 Claudia rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011-book-challenge-150-books, ya-books, suspense-fiction, sci-fi-fantasy

Five stars because a day after I finished, I'm still thinking, still wondering...Cheryl (yes, I DO know her -- not just name-dropping) has created something new here...a book about the world when we've discovered that Paranormals live among us, able to communicate, to predict, to see what Normals can't. Paras are persecuted, hunted. They're captured and turned into slaves of the state, forced to hunt other Paras.

In this world, Caitlyn and her mother are on the run. Caitlyn's father was murdered...more Five stars because a day after I finished, I'm still thinking, still wondering...Cheryl (yes, I DO know her -- not just name-dropping) has created something new here...a book about the world when we've discovered that Paranormals live among us, able to communicate, to predict, to see what Normals can't. Paras are persecuted, hunted. They're captured and turned into slaves of the state, forced to hunt other Paras.

In this world, Caitlyn and her mother are on the run. Caitlyn's father was murdered for the crime of trying to speak reasonably, to keep the peace. She's never seen her brother Daniel since that horrible night.

Caitlyn enrolls in another new school, living in another new town...hoping for just a few months of peace before they're forced to run again.

The new school has more Para haters,but for the first time, a group of Para supporters...but things spiral out of control quickly as Daniel and his keepers enter the picture, trying to recruit Caitlyn, not to right the wrongs done to Paras, but to destroy the world of the Normals and any Paras who are not totally committed to total destruction.

Within this sci-fi setting, Cheryl makes us think about our own world...and our own intolerance of differences -- all differences. She sees the set-up as cultish behavior, mind-control...I see it even more sinisterly: This is the hatred that spews from fearful people right now -- this unwillingness to see beyond differences, to the humanity of our souls. It's so pervasive right now that this book is a cautionary tale, reminding us our own humanity is at stake.

And who among us isn't PARA-normal? Which of us isn't quirky, different, strange? Isn't that our beauty? Isn't that what makes us worthy of being cherished and respected?

Cheryl's Paras are tortured, as she herself has been. They suffer. Some of them have been warped beyond redemption, just as some of the Normals have. Can one young girl with extraordinary powers save us from ourselves?

This book does NOT fit neatly into a specific genre or category, and that's a strength...Caitlyn, her friends and her enemies will haunt you like they haunt me.(less)

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Nov 12, 2011 Brittany Rehage rated it 4 of 5 stars

I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to read Hunted through JKSCommunications. I'm so happy I was able to read this book.

I was a little worried when I started this book. The first couple of chapters felt a little too much like a typical teen/high school story. The new girl shows up, almost everybody dislikes her right away, she crushes on the hot guy everyone wants and is befriended by the other outcasts. However, once the story really started to pick up, it was fantastic.

Caitlyn is a wond...more

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Oct 16, 2011 Michelle rated it 3 of 5 stars

I got my copy of Hunted from Cheryl herself via twitter when she was looking for reviewers for the book. After reading a small sample on her web page I jumped at the chance to get a copy for review.
I will be the first to admit that I haven't heard of Cheryl before or even read on of her books so it was a nice surprise to discover that I really enjoyed reading Hunted.

Caitlyn is on the run with her Mum, finding safe places to stay for as long as it's safe to, while trying to avoid the Para Trooper...more

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Mar 11, 2012 Jenelle rated it 5 of 5 stars

View original review in my blog: The Midnight Book Thief

The Bad
The romance. This was my only issue in this story. The romance between Caitlyn and Alex felt a bit like insta-love to me. Well, I don't really think it was as extreme as other books I've read, but still felt a bit like it. Their attraction was a tad bit unbelievable at first, but later on, it grew on me, and I began to like their romance together.

The Good
The plot. Aside from the above, I loved everything else. I really liked the boo...more

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Nov 30, 2011 Diana rated it 4 of 5 stars

Hunted is a young adult, dystopian novel where paranormal activity is government controlled. It is illegal to be an unregistered “Para”. Caitlyn and her mother are Paras that are consistently on the run. The next town that they flee to is one of the most Para intolerant cities that they have ever been. To deflect the heat, they stay in that city and integrate into society. Caitlyn enrolls in the local high school, and her mother gets a job. Soon, Caitlyn finds herself falling for a classmate nam...more

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Oct 15, 2011 Katy rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Everybody

Recommended to Katy by: JKS Communications

Shelves: ebook, galley-for-review

Caitlyn lives in a world quite a lot like ours – with one major difference. Paranormal talents, while not necessarily common, exist in large enough quantity that the existence of them is known. However, many folks without the paranormal ability don’t understand what makes Paranormals tick – and as anyone can tell you, what people don’t understand, they fear; and what they fear – they seek to destroy. Paranormals are expected to register with the government – their rights are restricted and, at a...more Caitlyn lives in a world quite a lot like ours – with one major difference. Paranormal talents, while not necessarily common, exist in large enough quantity that the existence of them is known. However, many folks without the paranormal ability don’t understand what makes Paranormals tick – and as anyone can tell you, what people don’t understand, they fear; and what they fear – they seek to destroy. Paranormals are expected to register with the government – their rights are restricted and, at any time, they can be taken away by the government and forced to hunt for and betray other Paranormals. Brutality toward, and torture of, these Para-slaves is not only common, it is actively condoned. Caitlyn and her mother have been on the run for years – ever since the riots in which Caitlyn’s father was killed, and her brother Daniel was taken. They’ve landed in a city this time, and are trying to blend in. Caitlyn discovers a plot by a rogue group of Paranomals to take over the country and destroy the Normals, however, and no matter how much danger it puts her in, she believes that people should all have the right to live in peace and she does what she can to stop these events. Can she find the culprit in time – does she have the strength to do it – and will her Normal friends have the strength of will to keep her secret?

This is a truly amazing book – it has so many levels. On the surface, it is an entertaining paranormal thriller – dig a little deeper, and it has elements of the need to understand that all people have the right to live in peace and freedom – freedom from control, freedom from hate, freedom from abuse. There are messages of friendship and loyalty, of standing up for what you believe in – all very important. Although this book is described as young adult, I would recommend that parents vet the book, or that readers be at least 15 – there are some situations that might be upsetting to more sensitive souls. However, I do highly recommend this book – I think there are a lot of important messages in it, and that it is something about which people should be cognizant. Please pick up this book – it is scheduled to be available 10/27/2011 – and do yourself a big favor and read it.
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Apr 11, 2012 Amanda rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: on-my-bookshelf

Talk about a battle of the minds! Literally! This book was definitely different. Different in an entirely entertaining way of course! I liked it. This book made for a pretty interesting read! We're introduced into a futuristic world where people are born with extra abilities. It's because of these abilities that their discriminated against, hunted down by the government, and pretty much hated by everyone else. For own main character however, it's harnessing this ability that helps her to fight a...more

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Apr 02, 2013 Sydney Mugerwa rated it 3 of 5 stars

This book has many aspects I would like to review: For one, a plus, is the pace of the plot. It makes for an engaging read, not with all the action and plot progression. I have read this entire book in one sitting, never a dull moment. Very nicely done.
Secondly, the another plus, is the diction; the author chose words that don't require having to looking up in the dictionary and I am grateful for that. All I had to do was pass my eyes over the words and visualize the story as it unfolded in such...more

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Mar 14, 2012 Jennifer Bielman (Reading and Writing UF and PNR) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, reviewed, urban-fantasy

Originally from by Blog: http://readingandwritingurbanfantasy....

The Good
I am always so nervous to read dystopian novels because they don't always end well and they can be depressing. But once I started reading Hunted, I forgot all my worries. From page one I was absorbed into the story and cared about the characters so much all I wanted to do was keep reading, and then read some more. Hunted was a thrill ride of action, emotion, and chill-inducing scenes.

Paras vs. Normals...
Caitlyn may love he...more

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Sep 05, 2012 Lily rated it 4 of 5 stars

Originally featured on Bookluvrs Haven

I was first introduced to this author when I picked up Scars, from Netgalley. It was a reviewed at an earlier date on my blog. I was gripped by the main character's voice and pain in this novel. I did not hesitate to read Hunted when Cheryl Rainfield very generously offered it to me to review.

The premise was different, in that it offered a paranormal tone, yet the stories are very much the same in that there is affliction, persecution and the necessity of h...more Originally featured on Bookluvrs Haven

I was first introduced to this author when I picked up Scars, from Netgalley. It was a reviewed at an earlier date on my blog. I was gripped by the main character's voice and pain in this novel. I did not hesitate to read Hunted when Cheryl Rainfield very generously offered it to me to review.

The premise was different, in that it offered a paranormal tone, yet the stories are very much the same in that there is affliction, persecution and the necessity of hiding one true self.

As an X-men fan, I was instantly gripped by the story from the beginning, where our main female character, Caitlyn, is running with her mother from an agency intent on apprehending those with special abilities. She finds herself in another town, going to a new school, facing down bullies, making friends, slowly gaining trust in her small circle, fearing betrayal at every turn.

The action was fast paced; sometimes too fast for my liking, which is a strange thing to write. But sometimes it felt like there was something missing in between action scenes, that maybe would have explained some of the thought processes a little better.

The writer did write successfully with a teenager's voice, with situations becoming maybe a little more dramatic than they should have been, but believable to me. I am not so old that I don't remember the earth shattering moments of those years, that now seem so trivial, surrounding friend squirmishes, and boyfriend actions or lack of. Not to say that the book centered around that; that is very far from the truth. The story is infused with situations which were very serious, as a full out war with potential catastrophic results was on the verge of erupting.

I found the relationship forged between Caitlyn and Alex to be believable, though was momentarily confused by the scene where Alex shows intense prejudice against paranormals, when prior to that moment, he seemed truly to be sympathetic, or at least neutral.

On the whole, I had a hard time putting this book down, which is definitely the same issue I had with Scars. The story was gripping, and very engaging to the very end.

Another recommended read for YA readers, without a doubt, and I look forward to continue reading more novels by this author.

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