Chosen by J.R. Emerson
What's It About?
When Theros and Talon, an allusive Shadow-Walker and legendary Pheonix kin, are chosen by the goddess Artisora to become her Champions, they assemble a team and join a revolution determined to dethrone the cruel King Kon-gor before he brings ruin to the kingdom.Chosen by J.R. Emerson is a riveting young adult fantasy novel that tells the story of a villainous king, shocking betrayal, powerful rebellion, and forces that unite to fight for justice. Shadow meets fire, evil rulers meet their opposition, and the underdogs face off against the privileged in this epic, inspiring and fully realized new fantasy.
The Powerful Become Captives
Theros wakes in darkness with the sudden realization that his Robin Hood-style plan to steal from the wealthy to give to those in need has landed him imprisoned on a ship — and sailing for doom. On the ship, he finds himself among others destined for the same fate of becoming slaves to the cruel King Kon-gor.
But soon, Theros realizes, there are others like him. Theros is a Shadow-Walker, who can control his shadows, letting him move beyond physical realms and transport his body elsewhere, blending into the darkness — even transforming his shadow into a blade.
Theros soon connects with Talon, a captive woman with markings on her skin that ripple and glow blue. She is a descendant of the legendary Phoenicians, or Phoenix kin. She can burst into flames and bend fire at her will, and her blood is rumored to have a secret power — one she is forbidden to use.
Their team grows with Anax and Amina, silver-haired twins who are Avalorians that possess a telepathic connection, allowing them to read each other’s thoughts, share pain, and die if the other is killed.
The bond between the four strengthens with the reveal that Theros and Talon have both been Chosen by the goddess Artisora to become her Champions. Their task is to stop King Kon-gor from bringing ruin to Retronos, by removing him from the throne and putting his radical, kind son Kakon in his place.
Dynamic and Nuanced Characters
From there, the Champions embark on a dangerous odyssey at the guidance of their goddess and an underground revolutionary group called the Night Ravens, led by the King’s son Kakon himself. Through the journey, the characters hone their powers, face moral challenges, are brought to their physical limits, and learn more about their world than they could have imagined.
King Kon-gor makes for a verifiable villain, with harsh methods of leading, disregard for those who work below him and a hunger for power. But his fatal flaw — underestimating his eldest son — serves as a realistic and pleasantly surprising plot device. Kakon, whose kindness has lost him his right to the throne, is able to instigate a rebellion right under his father’s nose, a feat he is assumed to be too weak to execute successfully.
The novel’s heroes are equally unique, with complex backstories, nuanced abilities and interpersonal conflicts that will ensure readers are unable to pick a favorite.
Fully Realized Fantasy Epic
Chosen is a gripping piece of fiction filled with underwater kingdoms, a series of trials designed by the gods, dangerous combat, impending war, and the constant testing of loyalties.
And of course, when readers see a map and a glossary in a fantasy book, they know the author means business. With pronunciation guides, reminders about who is who, and an image of the world that brings the pages of Chosen to life — J.R. Emerson has built a must-read fantasy epic. Ending on a thrilling cliffhanger that demands a sequel, readers are sure to want more.
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