Book Review: Chosen: A Dystopian Novel (The Immortal Ones Book 1) by Shade Owens
There’s something quite fascinating about the concept of immortality, isn’t there? When I stumbled across Chosen: A Dystopian Novel (The Immortal Ones Book 1) by Shade Owens, I was immediately drawn to its premise—a lottery that offers eternal life in a world of stark social divides. It seemed like a mix of The Hunger Games and The Handmaid’s Tale, and I was intrigued to see how Owens would weave these elements into a fresh narrative.
In the heart of Lutum, we meet Silverstasia Blackwood, a seventeen-year-old grappling with the harsh realities of her world. A society where hard labor sustains the lavish lives of immortals, Silver’s disdain for this injustice struck a chord with me. Her inner conflict made her a relatable and compelling protagonist. I found myself rooting for her as she navigates the complexities of a system that seemingly rewards the selfish and punishes the vulnerable.
Owens’ vivid world-building immerses readers in the bleak landscape of Lutum, punctuated by the ruthless enforcers known as Watchers. These characters, though a bit one-dimensional at times, serve as a constant reminder of the oppressive environment Silver struggles against. The brutality she witnesses is unsettling yet crucial in illustrating why her journey toward empowerment is so vital.
What I truly appreciated about the writing style was its pace. From the very first page, it’s clear that this book is designed to keep you turning the pages—something I definitely experienced. Several readers have noted it’s a “one-sitter” read, and I couldn’t agree more. The urgency of Silver’s predicament and the unexpected twists weave a tapestry of suspense that kept me on edge. However, I did feel that some narrative moments lacked depth, potentially leaving seasoned readers wanting more complexity in character development.
One standout moment for me was when Silver made a bold decision during the lottery. Her brave choice to defy expectations left me both shocked and inspired. It encapsulates a theme that resonates deeply in today’s world: the question of what we’re willing to sacrifice for what we believe in. In a quote that lingered with me, Silver reflects on the glimmer of hope she holds for change—"Eternal life means nothing in a world where justice is just a dream."
Overall, I would recommend Chosen to readers who enjoy fast-paced dystopian adventures. Fans of young adult literature looking for strong themes of social justice and self-discovery will find much to savor here. While it has its flaws, particularly in terms of character depth, Owens sparks enough intrigue to ensure I’m eager to dive into the next installment.
If you’re like me—someone who treasures thought-provoking reads wrapped in suspense—Chosen will probably linger with you just as it has with countless other readers. It’s not just a story about immortality; it’s a journey about standing up against injustice, a theme that feels all too relevant today.
You can find Chosen: A Dystopian Novel (The Immortal Ones Book 1) here >>