Abby Farnsworth’s Taken is an emotional blend of paranormal suspense, romance, and family drama that takes the familiar idea of monster hunting and brings it into a surprisingly domestic setting. The story follows Annie, a young wife and mother living in a secluded cabin in Appalachia with her husband, Jace, their infant daughter, Bella, and Jace’s older brother, Blake. On the surface, their days are filled with baking, gardening, raising a baby, and enjoying the quiet comforts of country living. But Jace and Blake have a dangerous family legacy. They’re hunters who track down supernatural creatures for powerful people who prefer to keep their existence secret. Annie has accepted this unusual arrangement, even though she’s kept largely in the dark about what the brothers encounter. When the dangers of Jace’s profession begin creeping closer to home, Annie starts questioning whether love and trust are enough to keep her family safe. It’s an engaging premise that gives the story both emotional stakes and a steady sense of unease.

I liked how Farnsworth develops Annie’s character through her relationships. Annie genuinely loves being a wife and mother, and her enthusiasm for creating a warm, comfortable home feels central to who she is. There’s something endearing about a protagonist who finds as much happiness in making sourdough bread as she does in spending time with her husband. At the same time, her sheltered existence creates an interesting conflict as she begins recognizing the importance of protecting herself. Jace is equally central to the story, with his fierce devotion to his family influencing nearly every decision he makes. His protective instincts can become controlling, creating some of the book’s most emotionally charged moments. Blake provides a welcome balance, bringing humor, patience, and a different perspective to the household. The relationships among these three characters are what give the novel its personality, particularly when affection, loyalty, and conflicting ideas about safety collide.

Readers familiar with Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight will recognize some similarities in Farnsworth’s approach to supernatural romance. Both authors explore relationships in which love is complicated by extraordinary dangers, and both feature intensely protective male characters whose supernatural worlds create risks for the women they love. Farnsworth also shares Meyer’s interest in emotional intimacy, lingering on conversations, romantic gestures, and the small interactions that strengthen relationships. What makes Taken distinctive is its focus on an established marriage and the responsibilities of parenthood. Annie and Jace are already building a life together, so their challenges involve family obligations, communication, and the practical consequences of living alongside supernatural threats. Farnsworth’s writing is straightforward and accessible, with plenty of dialogue and vivid descriptions of everyday routines.

What I appreciated most about Taken was its attention to the connection between love, fear, and personal strength. Farnsworth explores how wanting to protect someone can bring out tenderness and courage while also creating disagreements about independence and trust. Annie’s development is especially satisfying because her determination grows out of the qualities she already possesses, particularly her devotion to her children and her willingness to stand up for the people she loves. The Appalachian setting adds another appealing element, with its isolated woods, changing seasons, and atmosphere of hidden danger. The supernatural encounters bring bursts of action and suspense, while the family relationships provide the emotional foundation. Taken is a story about a woman discovering what she’s capable of when the people she loves matter more than her fears. It’s a heartfelt, occasionally intense read that should appeal to fans of paranormal romance who enjoy strong family themes, protective heroes, and heroines finding their courage.

Pages: 94 | ASIN : B0D2446WB9