Review: Rise of the Chosen by Anna Kopp

Synopsis

In Sam's world there are two rules. Rule #1: Nobody dies. Protect the living at all costs. Rule #2: Everybody dies. At least once.

The Waking was a global event in which a force called the Lifeblood invaded all humans who died. The few strong enough to control it came back as powerful immortals. The rest let the bloodlust take over and awoke with one goal - to kill.

Newly appointed Watch Guard Samantha Shields has a legacy to uphold. Her father died a hero defending their city and now she wants to follow in his footsteps. Except for the dying part, of course. Unfortunately, fate has other plans as she discovers deep dark secrets that make her choose between her loyalties and the lives of everyone in her city. Both rules are in play as Sam is forced to make hard decisions that could cost her everything - including the person she cares about most. 

Review

This is my first 'Zombie' novel and I loved it. Although it's not exactly zombies that we see in this book but a version of them. Waking has started. Dead isn't dead any more. Now anyone who dies comes back either as 'Awakened' or 'Chosen'. Awakened are mindless inhumane creatures who kill but Chosen are different they protect the living. The world has changed and things are different now. Coming back as a 'Chosen' is everyone's dream but unfortunately only a few people come back sane.

In this chaotic world of undead, Sam and David are trying to keep people alive. They are part of the 'Watch'. They guard humans and prevent death. This is the only way to minimise number of people 'Awakened'. Sam is a daughter of a legend, a man who fought bravely and died with honour. Sam is special too. She is brave and determined. So it was no surprise that she becomes part of the elite team at the Watch. She just needs to stay alive and keep people alive for as long as possible.

David is her team leader. The 'Chosen' in their team. They all must listen to him, whatever he says goes. Sam has a hard time following orders but soon it will all be irrelevant because the war is coming...
Will they be able to save people? It won't be easy but together may be they get a chance to save lives. One thing is for sure David and Sam are unusual guards and they will do whatever they can to protect the people of the city.
I quite enjoyed reading it. It was an interesting book. I like author's take on Zombies. It's definitely a good book for fans of the Undead.