Shielded
(Shielded #1)
By KayLynn Flanders
YA Fantasy
Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 352 Pages
YA Fantasy
Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 352 Pages
July 21st 2020 by Delacorte Press
Summary
For fans of Sorcery of Thorns and Furyborn comes a thrilling new fantasy about a kingdom ravaged by war, and the princess who might be the key to saving not only those closest to her, but the kingdom itself, if she reveals the very secret that could destroy her.
The kingdom of Hálendi is in trouble. It's losing the war at its borders, and rumors of a new, deadlier threat on the horizon have surfaced. Princess Jennesara knows her skills on the battlefield would make her an asset and wants to help, but her father has other plans.
As the second-born heir to the throne, Jenna lacks the firstborn's--her brother's--magical abilities, so the king promises her hand in marriage to the prince of neighboring Turia in exchange for resources Hálendi needs. Jenna must leave behind everything she has ever known if she is to give her people a chance at peace.
Only, on the journey to reach her betrothed and new home, the royal caravan is ambushed, and Jenna realizes the rumors were wrong--the new threat is worse than anyone imagined. Now Jenna must decide if revealing a dangerous secret is worth the cost before it's too late--for her and for her entire kingdom.
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My Review
SHIELDED immerses readers in a fantasy world whose kingdoms are in danger from an ancient, wild magic. It's a story about a girl who thinks she knows what her role will be who has everything stripped away and must find the strength to forge forward. A story full of family, friendship, magic, danger and first love. Definitely recommended to YA fantasy fans!
First off, I loved these characters, especially Jenna who is the main focus of this story. She was so easy to relate to and to cheer on as she faces betrayal and loss. I felt like her emotions and actions came across naturally without added drama that can be a bit more prevalent in the genre, so kudos to the author for not over dramatizing things. I also really loved how Jenna meats her betrothed and how things progress as the story moved to a climatic end. There were plenty of moving pieces to keep things interested and provide a few twists, with a bit of sweet romance for us romance lovers. I also felt the ending provided good closure while also leaving things open for book two.
I think my only complaints would have to do with Jenna hiding some specifics and some of the things that felt a little too easy for the bad guys. However, these were very minor. I really just wanted to be even more immersed in this world and more added depth to the story.
In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a thoroughly enjoyable read from beginning to end! Great characters, plenty of magical elements, some action and a well-written plot made for a great book. I'll definitely be reading book two as well as future releases from this author!
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy through the Whitney Awards, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
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