Chosen (Alex Verus #4) by Benedict Jacka
Paperback, 304 pages
Expected Publication: August 27th, 2013 by Ace
Source: Publisher
I don’t publicly advertise that I’m a mage, but I don’t exactly hide it either, and one of the odd things I’ve learnt over the years is just how much you can get away with if you’re blatant enough. Hide something behind smoke and mirrors and make people work to find it, and they’ll tear the place down looking for what’s there.
Alex Verus is a diviner who can see probable futures—a talent that’s gotten him out of many a tough scrape. But this time, he may be in over his head. Alex was once apprenticed to a Dark mage, and in his service he did a lot of things he isn’t proud of.
As rumors swirl that his old master is coming back, Alex comes face to face with his misdeeds in the form of a young adept whose only goal is to get revenge. Alex has changed his life for the better, but he’s afraid of what his friends—including his apprentice, Luna—will think of his past. But if they’re going to put themselves at risk, they need to know exactly what kind of man they’re fighting for...
Spoiler free for the series.
I have really been enjoying the Alex Verus books. I read the first three last year and was SO excited when I got this fourth book. I really didn't want the series to end! This series has been compared to The Dresden Files, which I haven't yet read, but own and hope to read soon.
Alex is a character that feels real to me. I love a male point-of-view anyway, but Alex Verus just has a voice that I really enjoy. He doesn't have a big ego and tries his hardest to stay out of trouble. He will even admit that his best choice (and chance) is to stay out of conflicts. Unfortunately it's just not that easy. Trouble seems to find him. Alex's divining (being able to see into different futures) is his special mage ability. And it works amazingly well. This allows him to know what will happen for any move he makes, bringing him to choose the right move and hopefully escape with his life. He is one crazy multi-tasker!
In this book Alex's past is catching up with him. Something happened long ago and someone has come to take revenge. This brings up a lot of right or wrong questions. If someone is trying to kill you, how far do you go to defend yourself? Especially when some of those attacking you are only doing so under orders of one whose revenge may be slightly misplaced? There's a lot to think about here and even hours after finishing the book I'm still thinking about it. It's a tough one...
I really felt a lot for Alex in this book. I felt like it definitely got more emotional than the previous books, bringing in his past quite a lot. It also opened up a new plot arc that I predict will be one crazy ride. I felt like Alex was just getting hit life together, and suddenly things have started falling apart a bit. I most certainly look forward to seeing where things go, and how he survives the next round of crazy that's sure to come his way.
Alex Verus is a quick thinking, street smart, butt kicking machine who is also funny, kind-hearted, bold and noble. If you haven't met him yet, you need to get on that pronto!
I haven't heard of this book nor this author but I'm happy to hear about Alex. He seems like a character I have to meet. Great review :)
ReplyDeleteSome how I have missed seeing this series around. I have read the first book in the Dresden files and liked it well enough to buy the second but of course I haven't had the time to read it yet. This looks really interesting and I think something that I would enjoy too.
ReplyDeleteF-yea! A yellow cover. Talk about making a statement.
ReplyDeleteI think I want to pick up this series. I'm in the mood for a male POV fantasy and you always seem to know just the kind of books that I'll love. :)
I've seen my friend reading this series once- it looks pretty good.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you enjoyed this, Candace! <33
So glad you enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteAndreea
The cover looks a little boring. It doesn't catch me. Still, your review is great and it gives me a good idea about the story.
ReplyDeleteThis series is new to me, but has elements I would like, I am so happy you enjoy them. Thanks for sharing it Candace!
ReplyDeleteI love the sound of the male lead esp since I know it is well written. I haven't heard of this but need to look into more
ReplyDeleteYou had me at your comparison to the Dresden Files, even though you didn't make it yourself. I think I'll like Alex a lot, I like male POV too, and he sounds like such a down to earth character.
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to the series.
Great review, my friend.
This is a new series to me, and I am happy that you liked it. Great review. :)
ReplyDeleteI've not heard of this series...but the synopsis did make me think of the Dresden Files (I've not read those either but did watch a few episodes of the tv show). Sounds like a great series.
ReplyDeleteHm... this one sounds interesting. I really like the sound of Alex. I haven't read too many male POVs and so this one stands out just for that. Brilly review!
ReplyDeleteThink I'm reading this one next! It's been waiting for me on my shelf and I do so enjoy Alex!
ReplyDeleteThis is the first I've heard of this series but I really love a good male POV, too!
ReplyDeleteI don't believe I've heard of this series, but sounds good! I do love a male point of view. Never read the Dresden Files either, but those books look great -- so nice comparison.
ReplyDeleteI am not familiar with this series, but it sounds pretty good. Thanks for the great review.
ReplyDeleteJust the summary makes me think of The Dresden Files, of which I've only read the first but do recommend. Of course I'm not much for adult books which is partly why I haven't continued and partly why I don't know if I'll check out this series but it's good to know that it would be worth it if I do ever find myself without being scheduled to read YA (haha.)
ReplyDelete