The Hunted by Jeff Wheeler

Just one week and you can continue on with Eilean's journey as The Hunted publishes September 20th. And boy, will you want to continue the journey. This is an excellent quest type of story where the characters are always on the move and meeting tons of new people--with a heavy splash of romance. 

We are trekking through the land of Muirwood as Eilean escapes the only home she has ever known to get the tome entrusted by Mordaunt to safety. Fortunately, she doesn't have to go it alone as Celyn and Stright come along with her as Captain Hoel is right on their heels. Every step travelled strengthens Eilean's ability to share the power of the Medium. She learns the secrets of nature and the history of the world and deepens her love and trust in the ultimate power.

New lands brings a handful of colorful new characters. She meets princes, queens, Aldermastons, and supposed heretics. With each new person Eilean meets, she develops a bigger picture about the leadership she has always put her loyalty towards. Part of becoming an adult is discerning how to see the bigger picture without any guidance from those around you. I am absolutely in love with the character progression of Eilean and Hoel. 

Meeting with several different varieties of heads of state, we are exposed to plenty of political intrigue. Spies are tailing spies. Secrets are piled on secrets and then dramatically exposed. What lies on the surface holds nothing to what is underneath. Plus, there is a love story. A very touching, mushy love story. It can be a bit over the top sometimes, but I have to say at least it is very realistic. Then, there is also the fact that it provides a good portion of the character momentum. I won't drop any stars for its existence.

All in all, plenty of plot devices to really keep those pages flowing. This is a book that will make the clock disappear in absolute emotional enjoyment.