What do you think?
Rate this book
Hunted
This book is now out of print
Seventeen-year-old Lily Atwater has always kept to herself, living a lonely life with her workaholic dad. Not the most thrilling life, but it’s quiet and ordinary, two things she’s come to expect from living in Victor Hills, Michigan.
When kind and mysterious Alex takes refuge in her home, she is suddenly thrown into his world of werewolves, a world he wants to keep her safe from. But while the two of them grow closer, a relentless hunter continues his search, stalking the woods with hopes of catching the wolf that got away…
Seventeen-year-old Lily Atwater has always kept to herself, living a lonely life with her workaholic dad. Not the most thrilling life, but it’s quiet and ordinary, two things she’s come to expect from living in Victor Hills, Michigan.
When kind and mysterious Alex takes refuge in her home, she is suddenly thrown into his world of werewolves, a world he wants to keep her safe from. But while the two of them grow closer, a relentless hunter continues his search, stalking the woods with hopes of catching the wolf that got away…
257 pages, Paperback
First published August 8, 2011
4 people are currently reading
972 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
May 12, 2011
ARC read through before it went to the printers. Found myself laughing and smiling at all the jokes and just the sweet sweet love story. Even though I've read Hunted 6 times no, it's still nice on the last read through to find amusement in the story. Lily and Alex are just so sweet
March 19, 2015
Hunted was written by Michigan local author, DJ DeSmyter, when he was 18 years old. It's quite the accomplishment to be published so young. DeSmyter should be very proud of himself.
In DeSmyter's debut novel we meet Lily, soft and quiet. Lily lives with her father in Victor Hills Michigan. Lily is a very lonely girl, isolated, invalidated. Lily has grown up very withdrawn and doesn't value herself very highly. One day her father brings home a stranger, a young man named Alex whose just as poorly socialized as she is. Struggling with speech the two start-up a timid friendship that flowers into something greater, something more tender...until an outside threat begins to terrorize their fragile peace.
Hunted is a light, quick paced story about Lily, an average girl, and her above average love, Alex. Music and art enhances the tone of this book with a precise, subtle beauty. There are things that DeSmyter has done very well in this book, which smacks strongly with coming-of-age resonance. There's a bittersweet sadness in watching Lily find herself in this book, come to terms with her individuality and her assertiveness as a young woman. Lily blossoms under Alex's attentions, but the novel doesn't read as a co-dependent trope. Instead the romance is sweet and alluring and very, very reassuring.
There are things that DeSmyter does wrong, however. His subject shifts sometimes happen mid-paragraph, making the transitions jerky and less smooth than I would have liked them to read. His adults are a little less believable than I would have liked them to be as well. I think this novel would have benefited greatly from some more/different editing. It's not as polished as I believe it can be. There were also some plot opportunities that I thought DeSmyter passed up on that would have made the story a little snappier.
As a first novel, from a young writer, this is a great start. I think if DeSmyter continues to work, and to write, he will build upon this solid foundation with a vengeance. I look forward to seeing what comes from this author in the future.
4 out of 5 stars.
- review courtesy of www.bibliopunkkreads.com
October 11, 2011
Not your typical werewolf story! I love the fact that's it's genetic, not magic, that causes the change. Not to mention that Lily and Alex are adorable! Incredible imagery and action packed. Must read.
June 6, 2021
La verdad se me hizo una historia muy sencilla sobre amor y hombres lobo, esperaría que hubiera más acción pero solo es amor juvenil.
July 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A paranormal YA romance with werewolves, danger, and a protective stranger. Lily’s quiet life changes when Alex arrives, pulling her into a world filled with supernatural threat and romance. Though out of print, this story offers a mix of suspense, supernatural lore, and emotional growth, appealing to fans of paranormal YA with a protective hero and small-town mystery vibes.
A paranormal YA romance with werewolves, danger, and a protective stranger. Lily’s quiet life changes when Alex arrives, pulling her into a world filled with supernatural threat and romance. Though out of print, this story offers a mix of suspense, supernatural lore, and emotional growth, appealing to fans of paranormal YA with a protective hero and small-town mystery vibes.
July 16, 2018
The story starts out with the telling of how Julia was murdered by wolves. It doesn’t explain who Julia or the person who is narrating the story at this point is. Then you get your first introduction to Alex Moreau. He is a werewolf and is hunted and trapped in a shed. That is where John Atwater comes in. He rescues Alex. When he finds out that Alex doesn’t know where his family is, he takes him into his home and introduces him to Lily Atwater, his daughter. His one condition is that Lily must not know what he is. Alex is okay with this as he only plans on staying until he can find his family.
This is a good, clean cut story. I really like books where you don’t have to worry about it being “R-rated” and this one fits in that category. I liked how DeSmyter switches views between Alex and Lily. It would have been interesting to see other character’s views also, but I understand that this would have been difficult to write. The book is written so at the end, it is open so that there could easily be a sequel and I hope that this is the case. I would like to find out what happens with Alex, Lily and their families.
I Liked:
•How you get to see both Lily and Alex’s views in the story.
•The back story on the hunter makes you understand him a little better.
•The family aspect of this story and how that is important. Lily thinks that she doesn’t have any family except for her dad and you can tell that it has always troubled her. Also, when the Moreaus return and how they interact with Alex. You get that feeling that it is more that the “pack mentality” when it comes to them.
•How Alex likes Lily and changes her perception of herself a little. She has a very poor opinion of herself and Alex disregards this and tells her what he sees in her and he doesn’t expect her to change. Yes, we all need our own Alex in our life.
I Did Not Like:
•The Hunter. He is not meant to be liked and that is a stereotype that I will happily oblige.
•At times, the story seemed too good. Yes, there were problems, but they always seemed to work out. I guess this just didn’t seem very realistic to me. Then again, we are talking about a story about werewolves. Still, I would recommend this novel to everyone because it is a good book.
•That we don’t know if there is going to be a sequel.
This is a good, clean cut story. I really like books where you don’t have to worry about it being “R-rated” and this one fits in that category. I liked how DeSmyter switches views between Alex and Lily. It would have been interesting to see other character’s views also, but I understand that this would have been difficult to write. The book is written so at the end, it is open so that there could easily be a sequel and I hope that this is the case. I would like to find out what happens with Alex, Lily and their families.
I Liked:
•How you get to see both Lily and Alex’s views in the story.
•The back story on the hunter makes you understand him a little better.
•The family aspect of this story and how that is important. Lily thinks that she doesn’t have any family except for her dad and you can tell that it has always troubled her. Also, when the Moreaus return and how they interact with Alex. You get that feeling that it is more that the “pack mentality” when it comes to them.
•How Alex likes Lily and changes her perception of herself a little. She has a very poor opinion of herself and Alex disregards this and tells her what he sees in her and he doesn’t expect her to change. Yes, we all need our own Alex in our life.
I Did Not Like:
•The Hunter. He is not meant to be liked and that is a stereotype that I will happily oblige.
•At times, the story seemed too good. Yes, there were problems, but they always seemed to work out. I guess this just didn’t seem very realistic to me. Then again, we are talking about a story about werewolves. Still, I would recommend this novel to everyone because it is a good book.
•That we don’t know if there is going to be a sequel.
Read
August 11, 2011For more than any other reason, I wanted to read Hunted because of the author. I’ve personally met DJ DeSmyter and he is a very cool guy. So when I sat down and started Hunted, his first novel, I was very eager to see how skilled he was as a writer. And while I can say I am impressed, there are also some things about Hunted that I did not enjoy.
Hunted is a plain paranormal romance. Lily Atwater is a plain, yet intelligent girl, whose single father is barely around. Then Lily meets Alex, who is different from any other guy she has meet. She later meets Alex’s “vegetarian” werewolf family of a mother and father who are soon close enough to Lily that Lily feels no discomfort in referring to them by first name, and two adopted siblings. One of the siblings is Summer, a girl around Lily’s age who soon turns out to be Lily’s best girl friend she’s ever had. The other is James, who is loving and strong and more than eager to welcome Lily into the supernatural family. Does sound like anything else you’ve read before? Yeah, I know how you feel.
DJ DeSmyter’s writing is plain and fluid, but never kept me fully hooked. I am eager to read more from him, as Hunted did peek my interest, and shows that DeSmyter does have talent and promise as a writer. One thing that lacked in the writing was the dialog. It was so unrealistic at times that I often found myself rolling my eyes at some of the things the characters said.
Speaking of unrealistic things, let’s discuss the characters. At one point Lily tells Alex “You’re too perfect. It’s almost unbelievable.” That’s exactly how I felt about all of the characters in Hunted. They fit their roles well, but were essentially cardboard cutouts. They all seemed to be super talented, beautiful, and willing to do whatever it took to keep each other safe. There was so little disagreement between the characters, they might as well have been sitting in a small boat, singing along to “It’s a Small World”.
I know this review came across as more negative than positive, but I really didn’t hate Hutned as much as it may seem. It wasn’t horrible, but it wasn’t outstanding either. Fans of Twilight will devour this enjoyable debut. However, for me, it didn’t stand out as entirely original or compelling.
Hunted is a plain paranormal romance. Lily Atwater is a plain, yet intelligent girl, whose single father is barely around. Then Lily meets Alex, who is different from any other guy she has meet. She later meets Alex’s “vegetarian” werewolf family of a mother and father who are soon close enough to Lily that Lily feels no discomfort in referring to them by first name, and two adopted siblings. One of the siblings is Summer, a girl around Lily’s age who soon turns out to be Lily’s best girl friend she’s ever had. The other is James, who is loving and strong and more than eager to welcome Lily into the supernatural family. Does sound like anything else you’ve read before? Yeah, I know how you feel.
DJ DeSmyter’s writing is plain and fluid, but never kept me fully hooked. I am eager to read more from him, as Hunted did peek my interest, and shows that DeSmyter does have talent and promise as a writer. One thing that lacked in the writing was the dialog. It was so unrealistic at times that I often found myself rolling my eyes at some of the things the characters said.
Speaking of unrealistic things, let’s discuss the characters. At one point Lily tells Alex “You’re too perfect. It’s almost unbelievable.” That’s exactly how I felt about all of the characters in Hunted. They fit their roles well, but were essentially cardboard cutouts. They all seemed to be super talented, beautiful, and willing to do whatever it took to keep each other safe. There was so little disagreement between the characters, they might as well have been sitting in a small boat, singing along to “It’s a Small World”.
I know this review came across as more negative than positive, but I really didn’t hate Hutned as much as it may seem. It wasn’t horrible, but it wasn’t outstanding either. Fans of Twilight will devour this enjoyable debut. However, for me, it didn’t stand out as entirely original or compelling.
August 11, 2011
Hunted is one of those books I enjoy sitting down with after a long day. It's a fun story that you can kick you feet up, grab a blanket and relax with. DJ did a great job at capturing my attention from the get go with his intense prologue. He created a story that intrigued me and had me wanting to know more about his werewolf-mythology, the romance and his characters.
Like Maggie Stiefvater's wolves, I love that DJ gave his wolves a realistic feel and not some hollywood movie rendition of wolves. His werewolves are just like wolves, and have a pack mentality like those you'd find in the wild. He also did a great job at creating some intense scenes between the wolves and the Hunters, and I liked how he portrayed the characters. Through out the story the Hunters are deemed evil, and I liked that DJ provides a glimpse as to why some of the Hunters do what they do. It made it easier me to try to understand their motives, even though I didn't agree with what they were doing.
I also really liked how the story alternates from Alex and Lily's point of views. I'll admit at first I didn't like the whole instant connection chemistry between Lily and Alex, but I did understand why it was like that. Their relationship is one that's sweet, romantic, full of admiration for each other, and hopeful. There's a few twists I like that DJ added to the storyline that draws the two characters closer together, as well as their families. I admired the mutual respect both Lily and Alex have for another, as well as the respect both families have towards each other. I really enjoyed getting to know more about the werewolf mythology that ties them together. That's saying something without giving away any spoilers.
Hunted is a beautifully, haunting story with a great romance. The story's simplistic werewolf mythology is one I thoroughly enjoyed and I'm looking forward to reading more of DJ's books. This is a great debut and one I recommend picking up.
Like Maggie Stiefvater's wolves, I love that DJ gave his wolves a realistic feel and not some hollywood movie rendition of wolves. His werewolves are just like wolves, and have a pack mentality like those you'd find in the wild. He also did a great job at creating some intense scenes between the wolves and the Hunters, and I liked how he portrayed the characters. Through out the story the Hunters are deemed evil, and I liked that DJ provides a glimpse as to why some of the Hunters do what they do. It made it easier me to try to understand their motives, even though I didn't agree with what they were doing.
I also really liked how the story alternates from Alex and Lily's point of views. I'll admit at first I didn't like the whole instant connection chemistry between Lily and Alex, but I did understand why it was like that. Their relationship is one that's sweet, romantic, full of admiration for each other, and hopeful. There's a few twists I like that DJ added to the storyline that draws the two characters closer together, as well as their families. I admired the mutual respect both Lily and Alex have for another, as well as the respect both families have towards each other. I really enjoyed getting to know more about the werewolf mythology that ties them together. That's saying something without giving away any spoilers.
Hunted is a beautifully, haunting story with a great romance. The story's simplistic werewolf mythology is one I thoroughly enjoyed and I'm looking forward to reading more of DJ's books. This is a great debut and one I recommend picking up.
August 3, 2011
First and foremost, I loved the prologue and the beginning of the book. The scenes were haunting, intense and intriguing. It began with Alex waking up in a cage after being separated with the rest of his family. He was naked, wounded and utterly alone. Although he was beginning to heal, he was still weak. DJ’s version of a werewolf was one of the simplest and most human I’ve ever encountered. They turn into wolves, have super senses but are still undeniably human. I like that the humanity was preserved unlike in most novels wherein werewolves were more animalistic. The gene curse-slash-gift concept was maintained, as well as the formation of packs.
The story revolved around Alex and Lily’s lives. Their relationship was smooth-sailing, as if they were made for each other. I was reminded of Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater at times, with the couple lost in their own world near the woods, as well as with the inkling to art. They were cute, not too cheesy and not too clingy. DJ knew how to balance the romance. The alternating perspectives were successful in letting me see the whole picture. Their doubts, worries and likes all matched perfectly.
The reversal of the roles of hunter and prey – hunter and werewolf – was one of the things that I really liked about Hunted. Seeing a werewolf vulnerable to hunters and how their lives could be affected, ruined and even ended by these people sought revenge was saddening. But the way that Alex and Lily’s family coped and helped each other was touching. Their dedication and their strong family ties were admirable.
Hunted is a beautiful and romantic collision of the lives of two people in an unexpected moment. Filled with love, grief, revenge and hope, Hunted will appeal to paranormal readers and romance readers.
The story revolved around Alex and Lily’s lives. Their relationship was smooth-sailing, as if they were made for each other. I was reminded of Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater at times, with the couple lost in their own world near the woods, as well as with the inkling to art. They were cute, not too cheesy and not too clingy. DJ knew how to balance the romance. The alternating perspectives were successful in letting me see the whole picture. Their doubts, worries and likes all matched perfectly.
The reversal of the roles of hunter and prey – hunter and werewolf – was one of the things that I really liked about Hunted. Seeing a werewolf vulnerable to hunters and how their lives could be affected, ruined and even ended by these people sought revenge was saddening. But the way that Alex and Lily’s family coped and helped each other was touching. Their dedication and their strong family ties were admirable.
Hunted is a beautiful and romantic collision of the lives of two people in an unexpected moment. Filled with love, grief, revenge and hope, Hunted will appeal to paranormal readers and romance readers.
October 11, 2011
First off, my apologies to the author...I thought I had already posted a review of his book! I must say that DeSmyter's HUNTED is a breath of fresh air that I really enjoyed. I know that most people don't like the head-over-heels love when the main characters are teenagers, but I for one do!
Alex and Lily are well-written characters that truly love one another, putting that love above trivial things and thinking of each other first--something that we could all take lead from. Alex is by far my favorite character, with his swoon-worthiness in full force and a heart that completely belongs to Lily and only Lily. If that isn't a great characteristic for a leading man to have, what is?
And Lily holds her own in the great character department, strong-willed yet endearing. Her love for Alex carries the weight of this heart-touching romance that unfolds beneath the furry down of werewolves.
I happily give HUNTED 5 stars, and encourage you all to pick up a copy today and enjoy a great addition to the YA paranormal genre!
Alex and Lily are well-written characters that truly love one another, putting that love above trivial things and thinking of each other first--something that we could all take lead from. Alex is by far my favorite character, with his swoon-worthiness in full force and a heart that completely belongs to Lily and only Lily. If that isn't a great characteristic for a leading man to have, what is?
And Lily holds her own in the great character department, strong-willed yet endearing. Her love for Alex carries the weight of this heart-touching romance that unfolds beneath the furry down of werewolves.
I happily give HUNTED 5 stars, and encourage you all to pick up a copy today and enjoy a great addition to the YA paranormal genre!
December 31, 2011
The first two chapters really threw me (they are short chapters though:-). It took me until the third chapter until I could finally ground myself in the story. It is a very clean and sweet romance. I enjoyed the wolf lore. I did wish that the characters could've grown more by the end of the novel. And I would've loved to see more plot tension and mishap going on (I did skim quite a bit due to it..sorry). D.J. did a wonderful job having tension and sweetness between the love couple. I liked how he wove his knowledge about music into the story. Keep Writing D.J., looking forward to more books by you:-)
Note: Very mild PG-13, and only because of a little blood.
Originally posted at www.ashleylavering.blogspot.com
Note: Very mild PG-13, and only because of a little blood.
Originally posted at www.ashleylavering.blogspot.com
October 20, 2012
It was a nice change to read a YA paranormal story written by a man. The fact that this was his first book, I found the thoughts and interchange between Alex and Lily refreshing and not too intense for first loves. It was nice that these two young people were building a relationship with one another without the sex involved. Lily is such an introvert and like many introverts they have a lot to offer even if they are quiet. Lily quickly accepts Alex being a werewolf without judgement. Alex who is just shot by a human still finds the capacity to love a human. The other characters in the book could easily be developed into stories of their own. I would love to learn more about Alex's family and about John Atwater's job with the security company. I hope to see more books by D.J. DeSmyter.
January 17, 2012
Only a dollar!!!!!
Sweet little YA romance with werewolf lure. It's only a dollar and sooo sweet!
Here is the summary from the book:
Seventeen-year-old Lily Atwater has always kept to herself, living a lonely life with her workaholic dad. Not the most thrilling life, but it’s quiet and ordinary, two things she’s come to expect from living in Victor Hills, Michigan.
When kind and mysterious Alex takes refuge in her home, she is suddenly thrown into his world of werewolves, a world he wants to keep her safe from. But while the two of them grow closer, a relentless hunter continues his search, stalking the woods with hopes of catching the wolf that got away…
Sweet little YA romance with werewolf lure. It's only a dollar and sooo sweet!
Here is the summary from the book:
Seventeen-year-old Lily Atwater has always kept to herself, living a lonely life with her workaholic dad. Not the most thrilling life, but it’s quiet and ordinary, two things she’s come to expect from living in Victor Hills, Michigan.
When kind and mysterious Alex takes refuge in her home, she is suddenly thrown into his world of werewolves, a world he wants to keep her safe from. But while the two of them grow closer, a relentless hunter continues his search, stalking the woods with hopes of catching the wolf that got away…
January 30, 2012
This was by far the worst book I've ever read. The plot was boring and simplistic. The characters were boring and simplistic and the entire novel was really predictable. I really expected more from this novel. Ive been interested in this book ever since I came acrossed it while doing Colleen Houcks YA Scavenger hunt but after forcing myself to finish it I'm extremely disappointed. I'll be asking amazon for my .99 cents back...
November 7, 2012
Really wanted to like this book but found it flat. I'm generally fine with the insta-love plot if they have a reason for it like a mate bond type situation. But the charcaters in this book had no reason for being "in love" a week after they meet each other. Then theres no "meat" to the plot there at school a lot but besides the occational teacher no one else talks at the school. Really its just not real at all.
October 7, 2012
A quick read, I'm assuming there will be a second book because this book came to an abrupt stop out of no where! That being my only issue with the book, other then that its a quick read with a good story line and enjoyable characters.
February 7, 2013
I think the innocence of this book is what I enjoyed the most. No love triangles, petty jealousies, etc. Though the tension lagged a bit in places, it was still enjoyable, and I loved the characters.
May 26, 2013
Awesome. Love books like this written by men. Looking forward to more from DeSmyter. Full review to come.
August 16, 2011
A very sweet love story. :)
October 12, 2011
It's my book--of course I love it. :-)
January 3, 2015
This book was really good. I liked it because it didn't have a R rated feeling. But it could of had more detail bit over all I give it a 4 :) u need to read this :)
January 16, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. The ending left me wanting more and I really hope that there will be a sequel.
September 8, 2012
Though the story seemed a bit rushed, it is still really good. I didn't see anywhere that this is the start of a series but I do hope it is.
August 10, 2012
looks and sounds awesome!!!!
September 26, 2012
good book just wished it would have been a little longer and wasn't quite happy with the ending.
January 4, 2013
This is book is sweet and fun but it was a bit predicitable and bland. The action need more omph and so did the romance. It was too calm
January 14, 2013
loved the characters Alex and Lilly. well written. exciting and young love
April 29, 2013
Any one who is a wherewolf fan and likes suspence with a hint of romance this book is for you.
January 24, 2014
Loved this book! One of my absolute favorites! Easy and simple yet kept the story interesting and moving right along! Easy book to read in an afternoon! Recommend!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews