Review: Rise of the Chosen by Anna Kopp

In Sam's world there are two rules. Rule #1: Nobody dies. Protect the living at all costs. Rule #2: Everybody dies. At least once.

The Waking was a global event in which a force called the Lifeblood invaded all humans who died. The few strong enough to control it came back as powerful immortals. The rest let the bloodlust take over and awoke with one goal - to kill.

Newly appointed Watch Guard Samantha Shields has a legacy to uphold. Her father died a hero defending their city and now she wants to follow in his footsteps. Except for the dying part, of course. Unfortunately, fate has other plans as she discovers deep dark secrets that make her choose between her loyalties and the lives of everyone in her city. Both rules are in play as Sam is forced to make hard decisions that could cost her everything - including the person she cares about most.

ebook, 210 pages

Expected publication: October 4th 2016 by Blue Moon Publishers

Series: Lifeblood #1

Genre: Young Adult/Sci-Fi/Dystopia

Kristine's Thoughts:

** I received an advanced readers copy from Blue Moon Publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**

I'm not sure where to begin with this book. I should probably mention that this is a genre that I often struggle with and I tend to either love or hate with no in between.

This book took place in a post apocalyptic world where there were basically three types of people. There were humans and undead which consisted of Woken who would immediately kill and Chosen who were special and could live among the humans. Basically whenever a person died they would automatically turn into a Woken or a Chosen if they were lucky.

Rise of the Chosen centred around Samantha who started the book as a human. I felt like Sam was a little underdeveloped as a character and I had a hard time getting to know and like her. Perhaps it was because the story moved so quickly but I felt she lacked a bit of a personality. I actually felt that way about most of the characters. If I had to pick one character that intrigued me I guess it would have to be David. He was a Chosen that worked along side Sam. My impression is that perhaps the two of them will get pushed together in future instalments. All signs point to it anyway. I wouldn't have a problem with that except Sam already had a love interest in Lena. Although I could take or leave her, how it is plays out might be tricky. I'm not sure I like the way that I think it might happen.

This story moved really fast and at times I would get confused. A fast moving plot with many characters will do that to me. However, the pace did keep it from getting dull. This is the beginning of a series and as such, it has definitely piqued my interest. I do feel like there are some bumps or hiccups in the story but I still want to know how it plays out. It provided me with enough of a plot that I want to know more and will make sure to follow the rest of the story.

About the Author

I am a writer from Ohio, though I was born and raised in Russia. As a child, reading and writing for me was basically like breathing. My parents’ idea of “grounding” me was kicking me outside to play. That passion hasn’t waned even after having to learn a new language.

I’m a US Army veteran, a wife and business partner to a software developer, and a mom to two rambunctious boys.

I love reading, writing, and playing World of Warcraft. I'm a true geek at heart and would love nothing more than to see my imagination become a part of something greater.

Connect with Anna

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