Ever the Hunted

 Author: Erin Summerill

 Release Date: December 27, 2016

 Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers

Format: paperback ARC

Pages: 400

Source: Raincoast Books

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 Summary:

Seventeen year-old Britta Flannery is at ease only in the woods with her dagger and bow. She spends her days tracking criminals alongside her father, the legendary bounty hunter for the King of Malam—that is, until her father is murdered. Now outcast and alone and having no rights to her father’s land or inheritance, she seeks refuge where she feels most safe: the Ever Woods. When Britta is caught poaching by the royal guard, instead of facing the noose she is offered a deal: her freedom in exchange for her father’s killer.

However, it’s not so simple.

The alleged killer is none other than Cohen McKay, her father’s former apprentice. The only friend she’s ever known. The boy she once loved who broke her heart. She must go on a dangerous quest in a world of warring kingdoms, mad kings, and dark magic to find the real killer. But Britta wields more power than she knows. And soon she will learn what has always made her different will make her a daunting and dangerous force. (Goodreads)

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Review:

 *I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion.*

Ever the Hunted gave me absolutely everything I was expecting and wanted from this read so I’m a very happy book penguin (I’m making this a thing now…just let it happen)!

The first thing I wanted from this book was an adventure. The synopsis promises that Britta much go on a quest to find out who *really* killed her father; it definitely delivered. She travels across dangerous stretches of land where her safety is not only not guaranteed but she’s also a very direct and obvious target. Also to be kept in mind is that being out in the wild is scary so there was definitely an exciting sense of “must survive” to it.

While there wasn’t as much magic as I would have liked (but let’s be serious, I can never get enough magic so that’s an unattainable goal) I did like how it was worked into the story. It was very reminiscent of a few of some of my favourite magic systems in fiction (especially ones I’ve read in the last year or so) so it lent a sense of familiarity to this new story as well. I’m excited to see how it develops in the next book!

Finally, I was really hoping Britta would be my most recent favourite type of kickass female lead. She definitely is! She is skilled, resilient, has (generally) good instincts, and isn’t afraid to go after exactly what she wants. Britta is also flawed which I think is so key to great leads. I love when a female MC is imperfect but still strong and admirable. Correct me if I’m wrong but no woman is perfect but that doesn’t mean she can’t be a total badass as well. Britta’s growth is another thing I’m excited to see unfold in the next book!

Final Verdict: 

Ever the Hunted gave me magic, an exciting journey, and a great female lead. I definitely recommend if you’re looking for a magical adventure.

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Q & A with Erin Summerill:

As part of this blog tour, I had the opportunity to ask the lovely author, Erin, one question. I drew on my love of tough chicks as MCs again for this one!

Q:

I’ve read a ton of YA lately with some seriously strong, resilient, and generally amazing female leads and Britta is no exception! As such, I’m wondering who are some of your favourite strong female characters in fiction?

A:

Hi Amanda!

When I’m not writing, I’m reading. I devour books! So I love your question. My all time favorite heroine is Penryn from Angelfall by Susan Ee. She is crafty and strong and charming at the same time. Another favourite of mine is Katsa from Graceling by Kristen Cashore. I love how Katsa has this tough exterior shell, and yet, there is something very earnest and sensitive on the inside. She is fantastic. Last, I think Feyre from A Court of Thorn and Roses is a good example of a survivor. She is willing to do what is necessary to feed her family. And by doing so, she ends up having to face her nightmares.

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I also adore Feyre and am so excited that Erin included her in this answer! I’ve also added both Angelfall and Graceling to my TBR because they sound great and I’m always game for a strong female lead!

Thank you, Raincoast, for having me as a part of this tour and thank you, Erin, for answering my question (and growing my TBR 😉 )!

Make sure you stop by the other blogs on the tour to check out their reviews and what they’ve asked Erin!

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