Chosen (The Chosen #1)

Aug 12, 2012 Joy (joyous reads) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: in-my-kindle

Emma has spent the last five years on the run; running from a dangerous unknown entity who's bent on tracking her son. Jake seemed to have a preternatural ability to see the future, which is handy considering he only sees when the "bad men" are coming. On one close call, they run into a drifter who was willing to help them run away. Untrusting Emma knew in her guts that she shouldn't put their lives in the hands of a stranger. But when bullets started flying in their direction, she knew they no...more Emma has spent the last five years on the run; running from a dangerous unknown entity who's bent on tracking her son. Jake seemed to have a preternatural ability to see the future, which is handy considering he only sees when the "bad men" are coming. On one close call, they run into a drifter who was willing to help them run away. Untrusting Emma knew in her guts that she shouldn't put their lives in the hands of a stranger. But when bullets started flying in their direction, she knew they no longer have a choice.

Will Davenport has his own agenda - to bring Emma Thompson, alive, to those who hired him. But he never counted on a five-year old boy who seemed much wiser than his age and who'd been in way too many chases to last him a lifetime. Things got even weirder when the boy started talking about a prophecy which includes him as The Chosen, his mother as the queen, and the two sons who would eventually decide the fate of the world. Talk about pressure. It's all good though, because it's not like Will has a choice or a say in the matter. All he knew was the indomitable urge to protect Emma regardless of what he'd face when he failed to bring her to the people who wanted her. What was once a means to a pay check turned into something more - an emotional connection with a "job" that he'd never once allow himself to feel in a long time.

My second DGS book turned out to be a pleasant and an odd experience. The non-stop chase left me breathless in such a way that action movies tend to make my heart race until the hero gets his revenge. Eighty percent of the novel alludes to a prophecy unfulfilled or half-way fulfilled, depending on how much you've paid attention to the story line. But the end result will leave you feeling like you just didn't have a full grasp of what you've read. This is pretty much how I've felt. That doesn't mean, however, that I wasted my time reading this book. On the contrary, I can't wait to read the next one. The ambiguous story arc will make you want to re-read it soon after you've reached the end of the line. Primarily for the need to sate the overwhelming urge to have a mild understanding of what it's about.

You can attempt to classify this as paranormal but you'll fail. Aside from the prophecy, there just wasn't enough of it to consider it as one. It was heaped in action that you could say it's a thriller and romance all rolled into one captivating package. I can't remember ever reading something as unique and as riveting as this novel.

VERDICT: My one and only complaint is, ironically enough, the very thing that I liked about this novel: the cryptic paranormal plot element. And even now, as I'm writing this review, I can't tell you what the hell this book was about. I think it's brilliant, in such a way that it would leave readers chomping at the bits to read the next one. But it's also frustrating; having to spend a day or two to read a novel, and not having a full understanding of what you've read. Regardless, I ordered my copies of the trilogy last week, and I just got a notification that all will be here by tomorrow. Go me. (less)

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Feb 19, 2013 Lisa Ann (Ketsy) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal, paranormal-romance

From page one of this fast-paced heart stopping thrill ride of a Paranormal Romance, I was in! Denise Grover Swank has restored my faith in an original concept series that lives up to the critical acclaim and the fan recognition is so well deserves.

Emma is a woman in the run, guided by her young son "Jake" who can sense when the "Bad Men" are coming for them. On the run for years, she is near the end of her rope when a swaggering and cocky 'Will' literally jumps into her car as she tries to esca...more

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Jan 08, 2013 Ibrium rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: that-is-not-a-dialogue-tag, 3-star, editor-please, nook, own, paranormal-romance, read-in-2013, romance-lite

A provisional three stars. More than once, for the first half of the book, I was tempted to DNF this one, because of Emma. She's awful. I tried to empathize with her plight, and the stress she was under, but she was just ... gah. EASE UP, LADY FACE.

I found the book to be repetitious on occasion. A memorable instance was the conversations Will & Emma had about how she was too weak to leave the cabin. Two conversations, nearly verbatim, within pages of each other.

I also felt that Emma's chang...more

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Dec 03, 2012 Carol Ward rated it 5 of 5 stars

I almost wondered if I was missing the first couple of pages of this book (I read it on my Kindle) because we jumped right into the action. I was left with a lot of questions: who were these men after Emma and her son; why were they after her; who was this mysterious stranger who practically bullied his way into helping them? Well guess what, Emma didn't know the answers either, and it made it very hard to put the book down as we slowly started to figure out what was going on together.

It's fast...more

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Oct 26, 2012 R. VanKirk rated it 4 of 5 stars

Chosen (The Chosen #1)
Denise Grover Swank

Overall **** Plot *** Interactions ****Characters **** World **** Originality *** Grammar **** Style ****

What is it with prophecies and fantasy? It seems to me they would either be irrelevant or complete story killers. If they are true, they represent a complete lack of control on the part of the hero. Predestination wins over free choice. If they aren't then why do we care? I don't know, but when they're handled well, they really can add to the story. C...more Chosen (The Chosen #1)
Denise Grover Swank

Overall **** Plot *** Interactions **** Characters **** World **** Originality *** Grammar **** Style ****

What is it with prophecies and fantasy? It seems to me they would either be irrelevant or complete story killers. If they are true, they represent a complete lack of control on the part of the hero. Predestination wins over free choice. If they aren't then why do we care? I don't know, but when they're handled well, they really can add to the story. Case in point, Denise Swank uses the prophecy in her story to good effect.

(Mild spoiler alert)

“Chosen” is a contemporary fantasy with a prophecy about the rise to power of two individuals. One of whom will defeat the other—and go on to rule the world one would suppose. It's unusual to combine prophecies with contemporary settings and it put me off when I first learned about it. After all, it's set in this world and we are not currently awash in accurate, or at least understandable prophecies. But, I kept on and felt well rewarded that I did.

“Chosen” is a story which explores questions about loyalty and love in a world where the protagonists are stuck between groups of bad guys. It starts out with a woman, Emma, and her mystically gifted son on the run from unknown assailants whose motives are completely unknown, but whose methods are brutal. She meets a man, Will, who seemingly jumps into her life to save her.

Happily, she is no feinting, helpless princess and he is no Prince Charming. We soon find out that he is a ruthless, seemingly amoral, bounty hunter hired to find her and deliver her to a mysterious group of powerful and wealthy men. From then on the story is about what happens to them.

The reader doesn't find out about the prophecy until the second third of the story and it completely changed the tone from dangerous chase with supernatural elements to full-blown contemporary fantasy. I think it would have been less jarring to know where it was going before I read it--which is why I put it here. The rules of suspension of disbelief are different in an epic fantasy than contemporary fantasy. They are less constrained to real life than your typical contemporary fantasy. So, when this change became apparent, I had to adjust my expectations a bit. I did and continued to enjoy the story. If you don't do it, then the story will be less enjoyable. ( as backed by some of the other reviews )

The characters are not complex, but they are passionate and feel real. The story is not complex, but it is entertaining and gripping in places. The writing is well done and for the most part transparent. It does not hinder the story or pull you out of it, which meets my idea of good writing. The story is the first in a series and comes to barely enough of a conclusion so I didn't feel cheated.

It's hard to feel cheated when I got the book for free, but for me, a free book that waists my time is an expensive book. This one was a bargain. It's a good solid four out of five stars overall.

Of course, now I'm going to buy the second one.(less)

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Oct 10, 2012 Tawania Etheridge rated it 4 of 5 stars

This book was very well written, and I enjoyed it a lot. I did have a few issues, but not enough to make me put the book down. The story was fast paced, and kept me on the edge of my seat.

Emma, and her five year old son Jake have been on the run for the past three years. She has been running from people who want her son because of his special gifts. Jake can see the future, and has kept him and his mother one step ahead of the bad guys that want him for most of his life. Emma and Jake are just a...more

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Oct 07, 2012 Donte-aro rated it 5 of 5 stars

I seriously don't see how this book could get lower than four stars. It was a fast paced read, that left me wanting more. Gladly, there are other books in the series, and I'll be scooping them up soon. I'm not sure what some reviewers mean when they say the characters underdeveloped, or things of that nature. I felt Will, Jake, and Emma were developed, so much so that I thought I knew them. Will had a few characteristics I could relate to and his devotion and determination stayed with me even af...more

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Sep 03, 2012 Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: contemporary, paranormal, suspense-mystery, non-erotic, action-adventure

Originally posted at: http://lasrmystery.blogspot.com/2012/...

Are you an adrenaline junkie? Then you need to read this book! It hits the floor running, and never really stops. I wasn't sure what to expect when I got this book for review. The author calls it urban fantasy, but it really isn't (I looked up the definition of UF ... yeah, I'm a geek). It's really a paranormal action/thriller that I couldn't stand to put down.

Emma has had a rough few years, hiding out from the bad men who seem to wan...more Originally posted at: http://lasrmystery.blogspot.com/2012/...

Are you an adrenaline junkie? Then you need to read this book! It hits the floor running, and never really stops. I wasn't sure what to expect when I got this book for review. The author calls it urban fantasy, but it really isn't (I looked up the definition of UF ... yeah, I'm a geek). It's really a paranormal action/thriller that I couldn't stand to put down.

Emma has had a rough few years, hiding out from the bad men who seem to want her son. Thankfully, Jake has an early warning system, but it's starting to get a bit defective: where he was able to sense them with plenty of time to spare, now it's declining ... a few hours... even a few minutes.

We see them for the first time packing to run. And they're too late -- the bad guys are already there. They meet Will, who's not what he seems, and he helps them get away. Sort of.

Emma is a great mom who will do anything, sacrifice anything (and really, she has) for her son, Jake, who's special. He can sense things and see the future. Emma doesn't know why the men are after them, but it doesn't matter. She has a gun and knows how to use it. She's taken defensive driving lessons. She's as prepared as she can be for confrontation.

Will is, at heart, a good man. That shows from the start, no matter what he thinks he is. And Jake trusts him, so Emma allows him along, reluctantly.

This is a book where few things are as they seem, where no place is safe and there's nowhere to run. The author doesn't give you more than a few paragraphs to catch your breath in between the craziness of the pursuit, and she's brutally honest about the way her characters feel. I liked her writing style and her voice. The characters were all well drawn, completely three dimensional and believable. The editing was wonderful and I never got tossed from the story for a glich or typo. Sometimes, I worry when a book is self-published, but that's not the case here at all.

Five year-old Jake is old beyond his years, but I didn't have a problem with him not acting his age. I was a bit taken aback when he ordered his mom around, but that was the parent in me rebelling more than it being unbelievable.

Will needs to sort himself out, and seems to do so on their insanely dangerous trip across the midwest. The reason for things is slowly revealed, a prophecy is shared, the playing field is set. A word of warning: this book's ending is really more of a beginning. While it does close the door on this particular plotline (running from the bad guys), it begins the more serious story of prophecy fulfillment.

The first thing I did upon finishing this book was go out and buy the next two in the series. I'm hooked. Bet you will be, too.
(less)

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Aug 20, 2012 Lori Dillon rated it 5 of 5 stars

Wild Romantic Suspense Ride

This book grabbed me from the first line and didn’t let go until the end. Fast-paced and action-packed, it had me flipping my virtual Kindles pages at mach speed. The author hardly ever lets the reader catch their breath. The suspense plot is tight and keeps us guessing. We, just like Emma, Will and Jake, have no idea who the bad men are and why they’re after them until the end.

The Characters

Will is a tortured hero hiding behind a cocky persona. I love how the author d...more Wild Romantic Suspense Ride

This book grabbed me from the first line and didn’t let go until the end. Fast-paced and action-packed, it had me flipping my virtual Kindles pages at mach speed. The author hardly ever lets the reader catch their breath. The suspense plot is tight and keeps us guessing. We, just like Emma, Will and Jake, have no idea who the bad men are and why they’re after them until the end.

The Characters

Will is a tortured hero hiding behind a cocky persona. I love how the author didn’t make him so self-assured that he can’t hide that he’s freaked out and a little scared of a 5 year old. Emma is believable as a mother doing everything in her power to keep her son safe. However, my mommy-meter went off every time Emma cusses like a sailor in front of her young child. During moments of life-threatening danger, I can understand letting one or two fly, but she didn’t seem to have a mommy filter on when things weren’t so tense. Jake is a child who is wise beyond his years. He’s confused as he comes into his new powers but deals with them like an adult, stoically accepting the fate life is about to deal him.

The Heat Factor

The sexual tension builds slowly with these two. After all, they have more pressing things to do (like staying alive) than ogle each other every five minutes. But once the burner gets turned up, the sexual chemistry is definitely sizzling between these two. The author does a good job building up to the moment with some steamy foreplay and then fades to black, leaving the nitty-gritty details to the reader’s imagination. If you want graphic sex scenes, this book is not for you.

Not Quite a HEA

The author doesn’t tie the ending of this book up in a nice, neat bow. There are many questions left unanswered and Will and Emma are still on the run. But hey, that’s what sequels are for. *G*

What Makes This Book Standout

This book is a page turner. Once I started it, I kept my Kindle by my side at all times and even got a few thumb cramps from hitting the NEXT PAGE key so fast. If you like good romantic suspense with a little paranormal thrown in, don’t miss this gem of a book.(less)

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Aug 07, 2012 The Readers Cafe rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed-by-jess

After reading this book, I've decided that I'd personally classify it as a "Paranormal Thriller with Romance Elements," since it's a little more descriptive than "Urban Fantasy," which is how it was described when I received it. It's also--surprise! (no surprise)--the first book in a series. Overall, I enjoyed Chosen, and would recommend it to others, though with a couple of reservations.

Denise Grover Swank has started a compelling and immersive storyline with this book. Her characters and their...more After reading this book, I've decided that I'd personally classify it as a "Paranormal Thriller with Romance Elements," since it's a little more descriptive than "Urban Fantasy," which is how it was described when I received it. It's also--surprise! (no surprise)--the first book in a series. Overall, I enjoyed Chosen, and would recommend it to others, though with a couple of reservations.

Denise Grover Swank has started a compelling and immersive storyline with this book. Her characters and their voices stand out: Emma--the sharp, adaptable mother lion--is my favorite, and Will was just irritating enough to get under my skin, though he improved upon acquaintance. I also liked that the author pays attention to motivation; very rarely did one of the characters do something that didn't make sense. Under intense pressure, they sometimes make the wrong decisions, but they are never wildly out of left field, and fit easily into the continuity of both the story and character development. Chosen is a solid book and an enjoyable (if tense!) read, and readers who enjoy car chases, characters with supernatural abilities, and an exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and loss, will find a lot to like in it.

There were, however, two drawbacks for me. First, I found both Jake's and Emma's characters to be somewhat problematic. Emma, despite her portrayal as smart, brave, and tender, seemed to be a character that "things happened to." She just kept getting new crises dumped in her lap with no chance to be proactive or to really make a difference in her circumstances, and I left the book feeling like she didn't really have much agency (and this was compounded by the fact that she was the only prominent female character. More women please!) I hope this changes in later books, because I really did like her. For his part, Jake was a confusing character for me. I felt like he wasn't really convincing as a five-year-old child (with the coping mechanisms, level of engagement with the world, and everything that goes along with that stage of development), special talents or no. Everything seemed to come just a little too easily for him for me to really believe his age. And second, even though Chosen is a Book 1, I was left a bit dissatisfied with the lack of resolution. Every explanation/reveal of part of the mystery led to more questions, the romance sub-plot clearly will continue to develop, and for as many minor victories as the protagonists have, their situation at the end of the book is fairly dire. Chosen wasn't a long book; if the second in the series, Hunted, is similarly sized, I think I would have preferred reading them together as one book, or as two books packaged as one volume. But, I'm also impatient, so there's that!

I will also add a couple of content notes, while being as non-spoilery as I can, for subject matter that may be disturbing to some readers. This book contains: gunfights and explosions which result in injury and death, a detailed description of visceral grief and mourning, and a depiction of rape (which didn't seem gratuitious to me, and was as respectful to the reader and the victim as possible). Those with sensitivities to these subjects may want to proceed with caution.

The Verdict: Chosen is urban fantasy on the "you can run, but you can't hide" thriller end of the spectrum. For fans of "chosen one/saviour" stories, who want edge-of-your-seat tension with very little reprieve, Denise Grover Swank's new series will deliver the goods. Don't expect much resolution in the first book, though; the cliffhanger will keep you coming back for more. I give Chosen 3.75 out of 5 black SUVs, which means one of them won't have the third row seats or cargo area, so plan accordingly and pack light. Oh, and I'll also add one "really?", because in a book that is clearly contemporary, there was NOT ONE "Emma Thompson? Like the actor?" line, from anyone. I was WAITING for it, I tell you!

This review cross-posted from The Readers Cafe.

Note: a copy of this eBook was provided in exchange for this review as part of the author's book tour.(less)

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May 29, 2012 Dolly Markel rated it 5 of 5 stars

I was at one of those points where it was difficult to find anything interesting to read. I tried, but nothing caught my attention. Then I somehow found this book when browsing through the Kindle store.

The premise seemed interesting so I gave it a try, and the book sucked me in as soon as I started reading. The author's voice caught me up and took me on a wild ride - car chases, shoot-outs, a paranormal mystery and, of course, romance. Although I'm a romance reader, I prefer my romances to have...more I was at one of those points where it was difficult to find anything interesting to read. I tried, but nothing caught my attention. Then I somehow found this book when browsing through the Kindle store.

The premise seemed interesting so I gave it a try, and the book sucked me in as soon as I started reading. The author's voice caught me up and took me on a wild ride - car chases, shoot-outs, a paranormal mystery and, of course, romance. Although I'm a romance reader, I prefer my romances to have a good plot and something more than just the overwhelming attraction thing going on. There was a lot going on in this book - but not so much that it felt disjointed or contrived. I finished the book in one day because I couldn't put it down.

The ending was a bit of a cliff-hanger, but luckily for me, there are two more in the series that are already published. Even if they weren't readily availabe, I would still have given the book a high rating. And I definetly would have waited for the second one. As it is, I've already downloaded and started reading it.

I'm not going to go into a lot of detail since other reviewers have already done that. But I will say that one of the things that held me was the paranormal "mystery" that was unfolding in the story. Some of the questions were answered by the end of the first story. But there is an over-arching mystery that is still unfolding. The heroine and her son are different in some way, and their "powers" are continuing to grow. Why are they different? And what other changes will occur? There is also a prophecy about something that's eventually supposed to happen, and it's worrisome because you don't want to see that happen. Is there anyway to stop it? And why would that happen? It's definitely an interesting book.

The one, tiny complaint I have is that the relationship between the hero and heroine seems a little one-sided. The heroine has spent a lot of time on her own and is leary of trusting the hero. But perhaps that will change as the story progresses. I'm curious to see what role the hero is going to play in the unfolding drama.(less)

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Apr 11, 2012 Just My Opinion rated it 4 of 5 stars

Let me preface my review by letting you know that the author, Denise Grover Swank, graciously provided me with a kindle copy of this book in return for a review. Thank you very much Denise!!

“Chosen” is a fast-paced thriller which stares you boldly in the face from the moment you begin the story. I was shocked at just how few pages it took for me to be drawn completely in and to form an attachment to the story and its characters. I’m actually having a difficult time leaving this at a paranormal/t...more Let me preface my review by letting you know that the author, Denise Grover Swank, graciously provided me with a kindle copy of this book in return for a review. Thank you very much Denise!!

“Chosen” is a fast-paced thriller which stares you boldly in the face from the moment you begin the story. I was shocked at just how few pages it took for me to be drawn completely in and to form an attachment to the story and its characters. I’m actually having a difficult time leaving this at a paranormal/thriller, romance genre….I would definitely add in mystery and drama to round out its’ description! What more could you ask for? You will find all of your emotions bleeding out as you absorb this fantastic novel and you will have a very difficult time putting it down.

Very quickly you will be catapulted from gun fights, to paranormal mysteries, to touching moments between mother and son to a romance building out of a very rocky and unsteady foundation. As the dynamics between the characters change and the story evolves, you find the answers you seek to be even more frustratingly elusive. Hence…you keep reading! Faced with treachery, murder, love, betrayal and loss, the characters still persevere and refuse to give up the “fight”. However, who they are fighting, why they are fighting and what the fight is all about remains a mystery. Lots of intrigue here….

The characters themselves are fantastically thought out and their relationships spectacular. Each character has an involved history and baggage to go along with it. It’s repeatedly interesting, however, to see how their new relationships form out of the dregs of their burdened pasts. The author does an amazing job of twisting and turning every event in ways you couldn’t really anticipate and without making it a predictable story or plot. You will actually feel the emotions that accompany the incidents which have occurred in the lives of the characters prior to the beginning of the story.

The main characters are bound together by a bond which stretches into the paranormal realm. I’ve read other paranormal stories before which get so involved in the paranormal aspect that you tend to lose your connection with the characters-definitely not so in this case. While you are introduced to the paranormal aspect and try to wrap your mind around the possibilities presented, you never lose your vested interest you formed with the characters in those first pages. The movement and flow of the story is expertly woven so that you never lose your focus or interest.

Going in, I knew this was the first book in a trilogy. So when I got to the end, which was very abrupt and dangling….I knew it was because the second book was close behind to follow up. If I hadn’t known that, I may have felt somewhat let down by the ending and given it a lower rating. If you are into fast-paced thrillers, paranormal action with some romance thrown in, you will LOVE this book and series! Absolutely fantastic! (less)

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Apr 04, 2012 Pam rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal-favourites, reviewed, ebook, highly-recommend

I absolutely loved this book. I came across it by accident on Amazon and I'm so glad I did. It's listed at a terrific price of $2.99 for the Kindle version.

For those who enjoy paranormal novels, let me first just say that this book has nothing to do vampires, werewolves, faeries, or demons, etc. This is something completely different and well worth your time to read.

It's a story that involves prophesies, a child who has special gifts, a mother doing everything in her power to protect her child,...more

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Mar 08, 2012 Diane rated it 3 of 5 stars

I liked reading this book. Lots of action. Mostly likable characters. Good guys seem to be winning. Finished it in a little under two days.

However,I agree with the gist of Henry's comment. The end did not satisfy. According to my Kindle I was only at 90% when the story ended. What! 10% left to do what with?

There was an Acknowledgment section but after that there was a great big excerpt from Chosen #2 or whatever the name of the second part in this series was called. I didn't like that. To me a...more

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Jan 31, 2012 BookHookup rated it 4 of 5 stars

****this book was give to The Book Hookup by the author but did not influence the review****

Celeste’s review: I brought Chosen with me to my daughters’ dance class and before I knew it the entire hour had passed. This book is action from the word go. Emma is told by her 5 year old son, Jake, who can see the future: “the Bad Men are close”. Mother and son then race to their motel to gather their few belongings and make a quick get away. Our hero, Will, makes his entrance at this point and he has...more ****this book was give to The Book Hookup by the author but did not influence the review****

Celeste’s review: I brought Chosen with me to my daughters’ dance class and before I knew it the entire hour had passed. This book is action from the word go. Emma is told by her 5 year old son, Jake, who can see the future: “the Bad Men are close”. Mother and son then race to their motel to gather their few belongings and make a quick get away. Our hero, Will, makes his entrance at this point and he has all the elements of swoon. I’m a sucker for a guy whose t-shirt stretches across his chest and has messy hair, carries guns……ok, I digress, back to the review!

Will has been hired to find and then deliver Emma to his employer. He needs to convince Emma to let him travel with them. Emma is reluctant but Jake (the 5 year old) insists he is a good person so Emma gives in. Ooooh, I had so many questions:

who are the “bad men”
why are they after Emma and her son
why was Will hired to find Emma, and what exactly is Jake since he can see the future?

I learned more as they continued their cross country journey looking for safety from the “bad men”. However, along the way a change occurs with Emma and Jake to add even more mystery. But changes also happen for Will, from a strange new tattoo (from Jake!), to his own battle within himself as he wants to protect Emma and her son instead of following through on his job.

The “bad men” once again track them down, but Emma gets injured during a chase which forces Will to make a critical decision. His choice to help her leads to some answers, but then more questions. I am dying to know what will happen!

The story was woven together so well and on several layers with no way for me to guess what would happen next. This book is a thriller with a paranormal twist, which equals WIN!

There were a few minor typos but not enough to bother me and any good editor would catch those things. All in all it was an absolutely fabulous read and I’m already onto book 2, Hunted, and delighted book 3, Sacrifice, will be out in March!(less)

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Jan 02, 2012 Tiffany rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: magic

This book was just plain weird. It started out with what I thought was going to be a predictable story, and it was, but there were some twists added that just were weird and I did not like. I won't be reading the next one... Well, maybe I will if it is free and I am really bored, but it is not something I will seek out.

Things I liked:
1 - Well, I kind of liked Will. He wasn't really well developed but he played the cliche "big strong guy" roll well. It's just too bad Emma came across as more of a...more

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Dec 15, 2011 Ns rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The chase is definitely on in this story, which features a contemporary reality with supernatural elements. My interest was captured from the start and it never wavered for the entire story as I got to know Emma, Will and Jake. They are the main characters who drove the story and came to life as active players.

The story opens up with Emma and her son Jake on the run once again from the "Bad Men". It's unclear who these people are but it's obvious they want Emma and Jake, and even more intriguing...more

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Dec 07, 2011 Rhonda Cowsert rated it 5 of 5 stars

Chosen - By Denise Grover Swank

Everything Emma Thompson owns fits in a suitcase she moves from one roach infested motel to another. She and Jake, her five year old son who can see the future, are running from the men intent on taking him. Emma will do anything to protect him even when it means accepting the help of a stranger named Will. Jake insists she needs Will, but Emma's never needed help before. And even though she's learned to trust her son, it doesn't mean she trusts Will.

Mercenary Wil...more

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Oct 30, 2011 Samantha Robey rated it 5 of 5 stars

I am a big fan of chick lit (no, really!) but every once in awhile I like to dip into another genre. When Denise Grover Swank questioned me about CLP Blog Tours being a good fit for her second novel––the paranormal romance Chosen––I immediately jumped at the chance. Denise impressed me on a whole new level when I read her debut Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes for her first blog tour go-round. Not surprisingly, my other bloggers jumped at the chance to host her again––even those who don’t normally...more

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Oct 15, 2011 aobibliophile™ rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

"The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift." - Albert Einstein

Emma Thompson and her five-year-old son Jake are always on the run. moving from one place to another across the country is taking its toll but they must continue to hide. the Bad Men are after Emma's son who exhibits extra-sensory abilities. then Will Davenport shows up and insists on helping mother and child. he has an...more "The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift." - Albert Einstein

Emma Thompson and her five-year-old son Jake are always on the run. moving from one place to another across the country is taking its toll but they must continue to hide. the Bad Men are after Emma's son who exhibits extra-sensory abilities. then Will Davenport shows up and insists on helping mother and child. he has an agenda of his own that Jake knows but Emma does not...
author Denise Grover Swank's novel is full of enigmas and heart-stopping scenes from the first paragraph to the last. the action does not let up and the questions just keep piling up too.
i could not imagine being on the run for such a long time especially with a kid in tow. how Emma kept her sanity going must have been so difficult yet she does despite the strange and life-threatening circumstances they find themselves in. she is a very strong and independent woman. not even the bad memories associated with Jake's biological father stain her love for her son. her driving skills are something else as well. despite being cornered, she and Jake always manage to get away unscathed. meeting Will Davenport, though, changes things for her and Jake. this encounter with Will also exposes mother and son to more danger but Emma's apprehensions about Will soon gives way to trust and attraction.
i loved how one puzzle after another is uncovered but just when i thought the mystery is revealed, another one crops up. this multilayered approach really got me excited to find out more. sneaking a look at the next pages was very tempting. i had to control my pacing, however, as i read.
at first glance, the paranormal aspects are nothing spectacular or new that we have not encountered before - clairvoyance, clairaudience and telepathy. the author made them look so commonplace yet this approach only added more depth and intrigue to the whole plot. i saw these psychic abilities in a new light and they certainly piqued my curiosity further.
there is only one thing i really have to warn everyone about this book: do NOT stop once you start reading it!

Disclosure of Material Connection: i received a copy of Chosen from the author herself through Bewitching Blog Tours. i did not receive any payment in exchange for this review nor was i obligated to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255,Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.(less)

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Oct 10, 2011 Jennifer (Books&Barks) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Received this book to review as part of a book tour.

Chosen, by Denise Grover Swank, tells the story of a prophecy and how two sides will now do just about anything to make sure they come out the winner in a future war. I really enjoyed the twists and turns in this novel and can’t wait to read book two in the series. I want to know what happens with Emma and Will - the next book has to have some major confrontations in it based on the way book one ended.

Emma and her five year old son Jake have b...more Received this book to review as part of a book tour.

Chosen, by Denise Grover Swank, tells the story of a prophecy and how two sides will now do just about anything to make sure they come out the winner in a future war. I really enjoyed the twists and turns in this novel and can’t wait to read book two in the series. I want to know what happens with Emma and Will - the next book has to have some major confrontations in it based on the way book one ended.

Emma and her five year old son Jake have been on the run for over 3 years from mystery men that are bound and determined to capture them for some unknown purpose. Emma knows that they are after Jake for his mind-reading capabilities, but other than that she knows nothing about these men or who they work for. So far Jake’s ability to sense the “Bad Men” has enabled the two to evade capture, but their luck is soon to run out - unless mercenary Will Davenport can help them. Will has been sent by another group to bring Emma to a secret location in South Dakota. After meeting up with Emma and Jake and wheedling himself into their lives, he is soon drawn to Emma and becomes less willing to bring her in.

The story has a nice build up of suspense with several action scenes thrown into the mix. Emma isn’t a damsel in distress kind of girl, not usually anyways, and doesn’t immediately fall for Will’s charm. It was interesting to see how the two come to know one another better, and to watch how they end up being attracted to each other and learn to trust again. They were an easy couple to like, especially as the reader learns more about each of their pasts and what has led them to make the decisions they have.

After Will learns about a prophecy from Jake, who is growing in his powers, he also receives a special tattoo that magically appears on his arm. This prophecy is actually quite fascinating, and I would really like to know how everything is going to play out in the end! Is Jake going to end up being a bringer of evil? How are Will and Emma going to evade capture by both sides looking for them? What kind of powers are Will and Emma going to end up having? These are all questions I want to know the answers to, and can’t wait to read book two to hopefully find them out! Mrs. Swank has created an intriguing novel that kept my attention throughout and also had me wondering what would happen next. (less)

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Oct 02, 2011 Dee Avila rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Chosen is a Paranormal Thriller full of suspense, action and revelations. Every character was deeply layerd and as you turn the pages you peeled a layer off these 'onions', so to speak. That is how I pictured the main characters. Emma: a mother, a protector, independent and completely snarky. Jake: a five year old boy, Emma's son, wise for his years and sees the future. (trying not to drop any spoilers) There is many more layers to Jake that you need to read about. And then there is Will: Mercen...more Chosen is a Paranormal Thriller full of suspense, action and revelations. Every character was deeply layerd and as you turn the pages you peeled a layer off these 'onions', so to speak. That is how I pictured the main characters. Emma: a mother, a protector, independent and completely snarky. Jake: a five year old boy, Emma's son, wise for his years and sees the future. (trying not to drop any spoilers) There is many more layers to Jake that you need to read about. And then there is Will: Mercenary, charming and completely full of himself.
And then I turned the page. Jake and Will turned into so much more.
Emma and Jake are on the run from The Bad Men that are after Jake. The year Jake turned 2, Emma realized there was something different, special about him. Not long after that The Bad Men started coming and Jake would get visions of them. Sometimes just barely with enough time to get away. While running from them, Jake and Emma meet Will. Jake insists on Emma trusting Will. As they travel her feelings toward Will increase. She doesn't understand why he is helping her or why Jake insists on his help. Until Will saves their lives several times.
Things begin to change and Emma worries about Jake.
Will was hired by a secret group to bring Emma to them alive. He wasn't told about the kid and he doesn't do kids. But when Jake told his mom to trust Will, he figured the kid maybe an advantage. Will's character is so layered. I kept expecting one thing from him and he would surprise me. He struggles with the right thing to do and the job he was hired for. The relationship between Will and Emma grew in a different way. Her snarky, independent attitude and Will's charm and bad boy sex appeal draws them to each other and pushes them away at the same time. I was rooting for these two through each gun fight, oh there is plenty of gun fights and down right action. Swank's characters are so well written, I could hear their voices. The Bad Men that where featured in this story, Alex and Philip Warren were well written. Their power and evilness seeped through their voices and actions. The voice of the security guard Travis was exactly what I would imagine hearing from a tough security guard attempting to save his life, shaky and full of fear.
Then there is the Prophecy, which states two groups are formed to come against each other. Jake, Emma and Will are all Chosen and a key piece to the Prophecy.
This is the second book of Denise Grover Swank's that I've read and she has not disappointed me once. I will automatically buy any other book she publishes. Twent Eight and a Half Wishes was the first novel I read and it was very different than Chosen but equally as great.(less)

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Jan 22, 2012 Steph rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This one starts off fast with Emma Thompson, a single mom, on the run with her 5yr old son. Powerful men are after them, and they won't stop until they are captured. For three years Emma has been on the run from these men, and she can only guess as to why. But it doesn't mater, because the most important thing in her life, is the one thing she is willing to die for. The book starts just as Emma and her son are making yet another quick dash before the "Bad Men" can catch up to them. Emma will do...more This one starts off fast with Emma Thompson, a single mom, on the run with her 5yr old son. Powerful men are after them, and they won't stop until they are captured. For three years Emma has been on the run from these men, and she can only guess as to why. But it doesn't mater, because the most important thing in her life, is the one thing she is willing to die for. The book starts just as Emma and her son are making yet another quick dash before the "Bad Men" can catch up to them. Emma will do anything to protect her son, even when it means accepting the help of a stranger.

Written in 3rd person POV, this book is well edited and super easy to read. The plot turned out a lot more interesting and complicated than I first expected. Prophesies, gifted children, secret societies, evil politicians, and a hunt for those that some think will change it all. The world building towards the end was excellent and I can't wait to learn more and possibly unravel the full mystery of this world. The romance builds quickly, but it's endearing and believable. The male protagonist's easy cocky wit had me liking him right from the start and kept me smiling throughout. Emma is a bit on the histrionic side, but all considered, she is allowed some caring-on after what she goes through.

I kept passing on this one due to its unimaginative cover and name. However, after reading the book, the cover and name does make sense and fits quite nicely. The only negative I can come up with is the book's curt ending. It seemed like a good place to stop without a gaping cliffhanger, but it definitely felt like it was cut short. Maybe it's just a good sign that the book left me wanting more. No problem, since the 2nd has already been released.

In summary, this was a damned good read that was so quick and engaging, that I might have read it a little to fast before finding myself at the end. I can't wait to read its followup, and find out what happens next.

Warning: Violence, Sexual Content, & Rape (However nothing is described in explicit detail).

1-Chosen
2-Hunted
3-Sacrifice (Mar 2012)(less)

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Mar 14, 2012 Melissa rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy

Just finished Chosen. It's an interesting read. From the beginning you have questions that beg to be answered. I found myself constantly waiting for the explanation. This is good because it keeps me reading. But bad because I ended with more questions than I started with. The action is non-stop. A constant barrage of men with guns, shooting it out in high speed car chases, accidents, and explosions. A couple of bodice ripping romance scenes were sprinkled in and were well written, if a bit viole...more

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Jul 25, 2012 Anele1202 rated it 3 of 5 stars

Tre stelle, niente di più per questo romanzo che ho acquistato nella categoria fantasy ma che di questo genere ha ben poco, solo qualche accenno qua e là. In questo caso la storia e i personaggi si sviluppano in maniera completamente diversa: la storia non c'è, ci sono solo i protagonisti che scappano da un nemico non meglio precisato per un motivo che non viene chiarito per un tempo indefinito... ok, ammetto che questa non è una trama e inserire una profezia, millemila scene di sparatorie e un...more

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May 10, 2012 Jay Sawdy rated it 3 of 5 stars

I "bought" this when it was a free Kindle book because the premise of the story grabbed me. Jake is a 5 year old boy who gets visions of the future and he and his mother have been running from "bad men" who want him for his gift for 3 years.

The story begins with Jake and his mother Emma having to run again, and a mysterious stranger, Will, helping them escape. We immediately learn that Will's motives are not of the purest, and yet Jake says he can be trusted. I was hooked right from the first c...more

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Dec 30, 2011 Alyssa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy

I borrowed this book from Amazon to read on my Kindle. I wouldn't say it was my favorite book, and I still have some qualms about putting it on my fantasy shelf.

This book is about Will, Emma, and Jake, plus a whole bunch of Bad Men who are chasing them. We don't know who they are or what they want. All we do know is that Jake seems to have some sort of telepathy and can tell when they are coming so the characters can make some messy, bullet-riddled get aways. Jake's mind powers (why didn't the...more

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Jan 18, 2013 Stormy Grant rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2013-reading-goal-books

I am not finished with this book. I do plan on finishing it, but I have some things that irk me. Like the fact that I am about half way through with this book, and I still have absolutely no clue as to why Emma has been running, or who these "Bad Men" are. It's irritating just because I want some answers. The author could have kept going with the book, even after we found out what was up with these "Bad Men". I do like the characters. I like the smartassness of Will, and his sense of humor. And...more

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Jun 10, 2012 Angie ~aka Reading Machine~ rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Emma Thomspon and her son Jake are always on the run from the Bad Men as Jake calls them. Emma doesn't know why they are being hunted but is determined to stay a step ahead of them if she can. Jake always knows when the Bad Men are coming but it's only been three weeks since they last caught up to them. Emma believes something has changed but she's not sure what. Jake knowning when the Bad Men are coming has been a gift or curse depending on how you looked at it. Jake has an uncanny knack about...more

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Apr 21, 2012 Lourdes Woods rated it 4 of 5 stars

Really good book, it was really slow for the first 1/3 of the book, she really dragged out the “bad men” for a while, we get it they are being chased, seriously chased and are in danger. It really didn’t start picking up until the car blew up and they ended up in the woods.

Then the story really stared to roll out and things started coming into place for the plot and then it did kept you intrigued and reading along, you couldn’t put it down at that point. I am looking forward to reading the next...more

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topics	posts	views	last activity
The Free Book Cha...: Chosen, by Denise Grover Swank	5	22	Jan 05, 2013 10:03pm
Kindle Book Club ...: Discussion, Chosen, In Progress	12	28	Dec 04, 2012 12:17pm
Kindle Book Club ...: SPOILER ALERT: Discussion, Chosen, Completed Reading	22	19	Mar 10, 2012 05:54pm

title link	preview: Chosen
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