The Chosen One

A Novel

By: Carol Lynch Williams

Narrated by: Jenna Lamia

Length: 5 hrs and 33 mins

Publisher's summary

Thirteen-year-old Kyra has grown up in an isolated polygamous community without questioning her father's three wives and her twenty brothers and sisters. Or at least without questioning them much—if you don't count her secret visits to the Mobile Library on Wheels to read forbidden books, or her meetings with the boy she hopes to choose for herself instead of having a man chosen for her. But when the Prophet decrees that Kyra must marry her 60-year-old uncle—who already has six wives—Kyra must make a desperate choice in the face of violence and her own fears of losing her family.

©2009 Carol Lynch Williams (P)2009 Macmillan Audio

Critic reviews

“Narrator Jenna Lamia brings passion and dignity to Kyra, her sisters, and even the strict elders who want all the girls for themselves...Lamia's voices sounds believably young and brings surprising gravity to this ripped-from-the-headlines story.” —AudioFile

“Narrator Jenna Lamia's searing, poignant performance will stay with listeners long after the book ends as she draws listeners in and never lets go, making them feel as if Kyra is living with them as they hear her story...Outstanding.” —Sound Commentary

“Jenna Lamia strikes just the right note between innocence and a growing sense of rebellion in her characterization of Kyra...” —Kirkus Reviews

Captivating.

I was hesitant to give it 5 stars, but only because I'm not sure it has replay value for me.

That said, this book had me in its grip -- start to finish. The prose was spellbinding, and the story being told was like a tearing at my heart. The narrator was a pleasure to listen to, and did an incredible job bringing the characters to life, immersing me in Kyra's world in the five short hours of this tale.

As much as I enjoyed every minute, I think that for it to have gone on any longer would have been a shame. As it stands, this book is perfect. And while I might never listen to it again, I think that actually speaks to just how well-crafted this novel is. Truly a singular experience.

Enthralling

Where does The Chosen One rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

This was one of the best books I have listened to.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Chosen One?

I was right there with her when she was on the road out of the compound, the first time. What a ride. I won't spoil it for anyone but you need to listen to this book.

What about Jenna Lamia’s performance did you like?

The narrator was perfect.

Any additional comments?

I listened to this book in one day. I just couldn't stop, and I usually try to listen a few hours at time while I clean house or chores of some kind. Well let's just say my house was clean after this book!

Riveting Story - Amazing Narration

I can't find anything to criticize about this audio book and believe me - that is no small feat. The writing is superb and the story pulled me in right away - I could not stop myself from listening to the whole thing right away even though I wanted to savor it for a few days once I'd gotten a taste. The match of the narrator to the character is nothing short of perfection - she is truly one of the most talented narrators I have ever heard. I wholeheartedly recommend this for anyone looking for a reason to love audio books again after wasting credits on a few clunkers - it makes my membership and the search for more gems worthwhile.

Heart-racing, eye-opening, vivid

This is book less about life in a polygamous community than it is about people imposing their wills on others. It is not about sex, it is about power. It is not about religion, but about the cloak of religion. It uses themes of polygamy, sex and religion through the eyes of a thirteen year old girl. It is beautifully told, well-narrated, poignant. I don't like to plow through a credit in a five hour listen, but this was worth it.

Loved the interview at the end.

Good book it has heartbreaking parts and might leave you feeling a little sad but it’s worth reading and the narration is good.

Superb reading and intriguing story.

It was hard not to become emotionally attached to the main character. Her story was brought to life in such a compelling fashion by the narrator, Jenna Larnia. Her voice and interpretation of the main character had you convinced that she was actually 'the chosen one'.
I highly recommend this book to anyone, but especially to people that have little understanding of the fundamentalist beliefs and practices of the polygamist Mormon religion.

Unusual Story

I listened to this book based on a recommendation and was not disappointed. The story is unusual and very interesting. I think it captured the hopes and desires of a young girl perfectly.

Excellent and fast read

Great story and Jenna Lamia is my favorite narrator. She nailed it as always. The book kept me listening constantly. I didn't want to stop. My only complaint is I wish it was longer.

The Chosen One

Actually the best book by far!I loved hearing the format.

Really good

I found this book when searching for Jenna Lamia's work. As usual, her performance was fantastic. I was surprised by how I quickly was pulled into the story. The interview with the author at the end of the recording was also enjoyable.