The Chosen

A woman lured as a child to a new world by a goddess and destined to lead her people to their future meets a man forced into a leadership role by tragedy and perceived as a villain. Set in a world loosely connected to the Elder Races series, The Chosen, captured my interest and made me want to delve deeper into the story. To be honest, the Elder Races connection was not immediately obvious and I unsure about what I should expect from the book. Thankfully, I approached it with an open mind and found that Thea Harrison had penned yet another wonderful story. The main character’s romance was sweet and quirky given that each character was from very different backgrounds. The story will appeal to fans of the Elder Races series and anyone that likes Thea Harrison’s works. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I loved this book! Even though it was short it was very well thought out and didn't seem rushed like I often find novellas are. I loved both the lead characters and enjoyed their chemistry, but I especially liked Lily, the female lead. She was both strong and independent yet vulnerable in ways that made her relatable and interesting to read about. You don't HAVE to have read the previous Elder Races books to read this one, however this novella did provide insight to a facet of the Elder Races that had not yet been explored in the previous books which I enjoyed. One of my favorite novellas in the series so far!

Another wonderful, enthralling story of the Elder Races from Thea Harrison. Her world-building is absolutely the best and I could not put this book down. The strong characters, the intriguing story line, all made for an immensely enjoyable read. I cannot wait for the next book in this wonderful world!

I love to read Thea Harrison. She is the one of the most talented authors I know. She creates worlds where I want to live and characters who I want to know. The Chosen is set in the world of the Elder Races. Magic abounds in this realm and countries are at war. The priestesses of Camaeline Abbey find themselves in a standoff against the Wolf of Braugne, a powerful leader determined to take over the world of Ys. But he has never faced the likes of Lily, a feisty and powerful priestess who appears to be much more than she seems. Their sparring is so clever and their insights so sage, their attraction so powerful that the reader turns each page yearning for more. Soon, we get just that as they uncover the true villain in a conspiracy meant to discredit The Wolf and take down all. You don’t have to know the world of the Elder Races in order to appreciate this novella, but after reading this I’m sure you’ll want to.

I received an ARC of this book in return for reviewing The Chosen. I am a long-time fan of Harrison and am amazed at how she continuously puts out stories that draw me in and leave me longing for more. With her novella The Chosen, Harrison returns to the world of the Elder Races but with a twist: this story takes place 100% in the Other Lands. This setting gives the story a medieval feel with that added element of magic. In Wulf, we have an alpha warrior reminiscent of Dragos (Dragon Bound: sexy, intelligent, possessive, vengeful, and take charge), but with more sensitivity and flirtiness. Lily, the heroine, is another great sassy, strong woman with a gift that is a burden and a blessing. Even though the H/H made me think of some of my other favorite characters, they are in no way weak shadows or derivations. They are unique, and their relationship is, too. This book is a testament to Harrison’s abilities as a writer. It is clearly the launch of a new series, and I found the pace and exposition perfect. Harrison packs a lot of detail and info in this short work, but I never once felt confused, bored, or overwhelmed. Amazingly, I also never thought things were happening too fast. She weaves the story threads together in perfect harmony. I cannot wait to read future stories with Lily and Wulf, as well as the other characters introduced. I’m even hoping some Earth-side Elder Races characters pop up. This book is a definite winner.

What a splendid midwinter tale. It is well-written, with richly woven intrigue, and is truly romantic! Magic is used for good and for ill throughout. Which side will prevail? Lily is an extraordinary young woman. Guided by the Goddess from a very tender age, she now carries responsibility for the well-being of her people. She knows she will need to choose wisely between two men. She is strong in her faith, bold enough to ask for what she desires, wise enough to choose the right time to act. Wulf is watchful, strong, determined, well prepared for battle, needing to avenge his brother’s death and the violation of his country. See what happens when these two are brought together. Excellent reading!