A fierce elite guard. A loyal lady in waiting. They must work together to save three princesses from certain death.On the verge of dying after giving birth to twins, the queen of Mercia pleads with Lady Felicia to save her infant daughters. With the castle overrun by King Ethelwulf’s invading army, Lady Felicia vows to do whatever she can to take the newborn princesses and their three-year old … three-year old sister to safety, even though it means sacrificing everything she holds dear, possibly her own life.
Gravely wounded in battle and knowing all is lost to his enemy, the king of Mercia tasks Lance, one of his fiercest elite guards, to protect his family along with keys to an ancient treasure. As Lance makes plans to sneak the princesses out of the capital city, he doesn’t need or want Lady Felicia’s help.
With the dark enemy in pursuit, Lance and Felicia must put aside their differences to outrun King Ethelwulf and prevent him from killing the princesses. In a desperate attempt to hide the young girls, Lance and Felicia agree to a marriage of convenience, a decision that will change their lives—and hearts—forever.
YA books by Jody Hedlund:
The Lost Princesses
Prequel Novella: Always
Book 1: Evermore
Book 2: Coming soon
Book 3: Coming soon
The Noble Knights
Prequel Novella: The Vow
Book 1: An Uncertain Choice
Book 2: A Daring Sacrifice
Book 3: For Love and Honor
Book 4: A Loyal Heart
Book 5: A Worthy Rebel
Other books by Jody Hedlund:
The Orphan Train Series
Prequel Novella: An Awakened Heart
Book 1: With You Always
Book 2: Together Forever
Book 3: Searching for You
The Beacons of Hope Series
Prequel Novella: Out of the Storm
Book 1: Love Unexpected
Book 2: Hearts Made Whole
Book 3: Undaunted Hope
Book 4: Forever Safe
Book 5: Never Forget
The Michigan Brides Collection
Unending Devotion
A Noble Groom
Captured by Love
The Hearts of Faith Collection
The Preacher’s Bride
The Doctor’s Lady
Rebellious Heart
Historical
Luther and Katharina
Newton and Polly
more
“Sometimes, when we think we’ve come to a dead end, we’ve arrived instead at God’s stepping-stone on the way to bigger plans.”
Oohhh! Fans of medieval YA fiction, it doesn’t get any better than this! Welcome to Jody Hedlund’s newest series the Lost Princesses and its opening novella called Always. There is guaranteed action and nail-biting anticipation in the well-crafted plot, as well as beautifully lovable characters who sweetly fall in love in the midst of battle, flight from captors, and sense of duty.
Lance, a fierce and loyal knight in the king’s elite guard sworn to protect his kingdom and master, finds himself in the middle of a bloody treacherous overthrow by a neighboring ruler. He is tasked to protect the young princesses by the dying king as a lady-in-waiting, Felicia, is tasked to do the same by the dying queen. Felicia, a brave, resourceful, stubborn and loyal noblewoman, risks everything as she escapes her would-be captors multiple times with Lance’s aide. This novella sets the stage for the following three novels which will chronicle each of the princess’s hidden journey as they grown into adulthood not knowing who they really are. Set in a sumptuous background of medieval landscape, this novella will sweep you away into a world where honor and loyalty reign while good and truth triumph. Jody Hedlund, with her masterful stroke of her pen, will have you reading the book in one sitting and then waiting anxiously for the next!
I received a copy of the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
This was a great prequel to an exciting new series.
Lance and Felicity undertake a daring escape as they race to rescue three orphaned princesses. Fleeing from the elite guard of an evil king, they encounter danger after danger.
I liked the way both Lance and Felicity were determined not to relinquish the charges given them regarding the princesses. Each had been commissioned separately and thought they needed to do this on their own. And yet they couldn’t accomplish this alone.
Their journey was gripping as they encountered unexpected threats. My favorite to read about was probably the waterfall.
As a member of the king’s elite guard, Lance was bound by a vow of chastity. As a result, he would not even consider developing a relationship with a woman, especially not a lady of nobility who was so far above his station. Nevertheless, as in all good romances, he was unable to resist the plucky woman who tenderly loved these babies which were not her own, and risked her life for the good of the kingdom.
This was a great prequel to an exciting new series.
Read my review of Always by Jody Hedlund at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
As much as I love Jody Hedlund’s stories, I initially borrowed this title not for myself but for my daughter. However, the aforementioned daughter offered to read part of the story aloud to me as I was driving and then I was hooked.
The young adult genre isn’t usually one I reach for and, as I said, I wasn’t exactly “sitting around with nothing to do” and yet I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I highly recommend Always to all fans of medieval fiction and I plan to purchase a print copy as soon as the book budget allows!
I borrowed this title through the Kindle Unlimited program. The opinions expressed are my own.
Always: A Prequel Novella by Jody Hedlund is the first story in The Lost Princesses series. This young adult novella is a stunning historical fiction fairytale filled with elements of adventure, faith, romance and intrigue.
Beautifully written in the first person perspectives of the two main characters, this novella is incredibly engaging and exciting. With thrilling scenes of danger, courage, and heroics, the plot is thoroughly gripping and compelling. Themes of faith, honor, and perseverance add meaning to this story making it richly memorable and edifying. Likeable characters who demonstrate selflessness and fortitude ensure this book is relatable and truly entertaining.
Always is a novella that can easily be enjoyed again and again. Ms. Hedlund’s wonderfully descriptive style and attention to detail are deeply satisfying and memorable. This novella is sure to please readers who are delighted by young adult fiction that is well-written, clean, and uplifting. I highly recommend it, and I eagerly look forward to reading the next book in this series.
*I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.
From the very first page, until the last, I was blissfully along for the adventure of a lifetime. I couldn’t get enough of this story. I inhaled it like a hungry book dragon and absolutely loved every moment!
This story may be short, but it packs an impressive punch! Jody Hedlund has weaved a dynamic story with endearing characters that will have you holding your breath and rapidly turning pages for more!
While this story is marketed and written with the Young Adult Fiction Reader in mind, anyone can enjoy this action-packed adventure! I give this story 5-stars and encourage you to snag your copy of this book today!
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.)
This story has a “fairytale” feel with all the things we love about those types of tales: A beautiful, brave, and spirited heroine; a strong, handsome, loyal warrior; and an amazing storyline that revolves around the rescue of three young princesses that must be hidden from an evil king. From the opening scene, I was swept away by the adventure in this beautiful story. This is a shorter, novella length story that’s the prequel to what I believe will be an amazing series. The story has a theme of faith that runs subtly throughout the story but explains where the strength that Lance and Felicia claim as they seek to protect the royal princesses at any cost. I know this book is marketed as YA fiction, but it can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I am a teenager years old and I am always searching for good clean teen books. I am pleased to report that I have found a gold nugget in Jody Hedlund’s new book, Always. I have been eagerly awaiting this new book by Jody Hedlund since I first heard about it. It did not disappoint and even kept me up late at night – as I could not put it down!
Always is a fictional christian teen novel. It is set in medieval times and it is the prequel to Jody Hedlund’s new series “The Lost Princesses”. “The Lost Princesses” series follows the journey of three sisters as they seek to reclaim their kingdom from the king who stole it from them. Always sets the backdrop for the story to come in the next three books. It follows the journey of one of the queen’s Ladies in Waiting and one of the king’s Elite Guards, as they fight to save the princesses of a defeated kingdom. This book was so very good for many reasons. The story was interesting, fast paced and kept my attention but it was also a clean read. It was exactly what I have been searching for!
Although Felicia is one of the queen’s youngest Ladies in Waiting, she is loyal and she is different. She doesn’t value things most find valuable, like riches and beauty. Instead, she wants to be loved for her heart. Felicia finds herself on a journey that will last her a lifetime as she vows to her queen to rescue and hide the queen’s daughters.
Lance is one of the king’s Elite Guards, dedicated and committed to only serving the king. As one of the King’s Elite Guards, Lance is committed to serving his king until his death or he is physically unable to do so. Nothing will distract Lance from doing his duty. Lance trained for many years to become part of the King’s Elite Guard, he is strong and young. However, Lance will face his biggest battle yet, as he vows to the dying king to rescue his daughters before the conquering king can kill them.
God has different plans for Felicia and Lance instead of letting them embark on this journey alone, he brings them together so that they might save the princesses. Despite having differences, they work together in order to save the last hope of a struggling kingdom. As they travel to find the oldest princesses and find a safe hiding place for the girls they find themselves growing closer to one another. Yet, they must first overcome some trying obstacles such as evading the evil conquering king and protecting the princesses before they can think of themselves.
I devoured Always, and could not put it down once I started. I really enjoyed journeying with Lance and Felicia as they traveled to save the princesses. Along the way Felicia and Lance learn that they have to find their hope and strength in God. Lance especially learns that he is not strong enough to stand on his own, and it is only with God’s strength can he continue.
This particular quote really resonated with me, it was during the portion of the story where Lance was at the end of himself and finally gives it all to God, “I haven’t wanted to rely upon anyone, have only leaned upon my own strength and determination. But I have nothing left, I can do no more.” This quote reminded me that we all need to rely on God and not on our own strength. We can do nothing without Christ, as we’re told in John 15. We are to always be abiding in Him alone.
I would definitely recommend Always. It was an amazing story that captured my attention. I was both interested and encouraged. I would recommend this book to girls ages 13 and up. It is a clean, christian, medieval romance. I cannot wait to read the next books.
I received a free copy from the editor, this review is my own. I was not obligated to write a good review.
I am a longtime fan of Author Jody Hedlund, and I can’t believe I had never read one of the books in her Young Adult genre. I realize after enjoying Always I have been missing some excellent reading. The author’s research into medieval times is meticulous and the descriptions were so real. A definite page-turner! I think it is suitable for both Young Adults as well as adults. It’s a good, clean romance and who doesn’t enjoy a story about princesses and strong, handsome knights in shining armor. Always is a novella that you will want to read before you start The Lost Princesses Series. I look forward to reading the first book!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and author. The opinions are completely my own.
I seriously love Jody Hedlund! She has done it again! I have read many of her previous books, and this one does not disappoint! I love the characters of Lance and Felicia. They are so dedicated to the vows they made to the King and Queen, nothing will stop them! You definitely want to read this novella first to set the story line. Now I am ready to start Evermore! I can’t wait to find out what happens with these three princesses!
This is a book that you won’t want to put down! I couldn’t read it fast enough! The details were rich and kept me immersed in the story the entire time. I really liked that this book can be entertaining for young adults and adults. I just can’t wait for the rest of the series!
I was given a complimentary copy of this ebook from the author, but was not required to write a review. The thoughts and comments are my own.
What an exciting adventure! The non-stop action had me on the edge of my seat reading as fast as I could.
Lady Felicia and Sir Lance are each tasked with saving the Princesses. Legendary warriors close in behind them as they flee the castle with newborn babes in tow.
Do they make it out of the castle? Are the princesses safe? No spoilers from me.
I’ll share some words of wisdom from the queen: “Oft times we cannot change the entire direction of a route already set in motion. But we can do our small part to shift the path one degree at a time.”
‘Sometimes, when we think we’ve come to a dead end, we’ve arrived instead at God’s stepping-stone on the way to bigger plans.’
Tasked by the dying queen to keep her newborn twin daughters safe when the castle is overrun by an army, Lady Felicia fears for their lives. As she is packing to leave, she is confronted by Sir Lance, knight of the king’s elite guard. Lance, too, has been tasked by the king to protect his twin newborns, including the 3 year old crown princess. Lance and Felicia have no trust for the other, but they are thrust together to save three small lives and outwit their pursuers.
I have long been a fan of Jody Hedlund; since her first book, I’ve been determined to read everything she writes. She is a very good author, but she totally shines in her medieval offerings. It is my favorite time period to read and she is amazing at it. I loved every single minute of this one. Highly recommended. Now I must dash to read the next novel behind this one.
*My thanks to the publisher and author for a preview copy of this book. My opinions stated here are completely my own.
My Review of Always by Jody Hedlund: This is an adorable little prequel novella to Hedlund’s new series. Albeit extremely sad and so very romantic with the dear couple wanting each other to take a hike a long and far hike preferable forever. Cliche but enjoyable, truly it is! A wonderfully cute and short novella prequel for Hedlund’s new series. The plot was perfectly paced which pleased me since novellas tend to be to fast in pacing and plot.
This is a read for anyone 13 up since there is some violence and a boatload of sadness. Heartbreaking, the beginning was heartbreaking yet the noon was enjoyable.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review – all the thoughts are my own.
A historical fairytale set in medieval times??? I mean…MEDIEVAL!!! I’m a lover of anything medieval, so of course I loved this book. Also, I loved it for its storyline, and the incredibly well-written plot.
The whole thing was very intense to me, there are times when I feel like they were gonna fail, and there are times when I thought I’m gonna lose either one of them. I loved them both equally, and the lost princesses are very important to the story. It totally make sense as to why the late king and queen of Mercia asked these two to take the princesses away from Mercia, as far as possible. These princess will play a huge part in the next installments. In this prequel novella, it was stated why these princess will be the key to save Mercia. I’m so excited to see how the three sisters will go up against King Ethelwulf.
Lance is the most trusted knight, and Felicia is the most trusted lady-in-waiting. They have a great dynamic and brilliant chemistry. But throughout their journey, they can’t seem to get along because Lance thought he’s not worthy of her since she is a noblewoman, an upperclass person compared to him. While Felicia just want to get to know him a bit more and she always treated him as her equal.
When they started to formed a deep bond with one another, Lance always remind himself that he’s nothing compared to her, and that’s where the complicated feelings start to come out. I can feel the angst between them and I truly felt bad for Felicia. Their romance is short, but I loved the build up to their romance. This story is their story, so its main focus is obviously on them. Also, the story focused on their beliefs too. Why they thought God put them together to carry this mission, what purpose do they served. Not only they have to search a way to be together, but they also have to search their own purpose.
I find the story to be so delightful to read and it definitely is my favorite.
4.5 stars I really enjoyed this story and immediately picked up Evermore to read next. The characters, romance and action were all super captivating. I love the world that Jody Hedlund has created and the way I was just pulled in and invested in the story. I also like that while there was dreamy romance and major action with the rescuing of the princesses, everything was clean and fairytale like.
I can’t wait to read more by this author. I definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading the whole series.
This was the sweetest, most enchanting novella I’ve ever read. There were times I wanted to laugh, to cry, to just close the book and throw it at the wall yelling “noooooo!!!” (I would never do that to a book)
I thought I had it all figured out, but it turned out I didn’t! I just can’t wait for the rest in the series now!
Once again Hedlund has given us a delightful, fairy tale-like romance packed with both wonderfully unique characters and high-tension actions. The story did feel a bit rushed in parts, but that isn’t completely unexpected with the novella length. Like her other YA novels, there are a strong romantic elements (obviously!) and some intense medieval violence. Otherwise, this is a fun afternoon read for older teens, especially for those who like the fairy tale style.
Jody Hedlund is the only author I can name that draws me into a story written in the first-person point of view without me having to work hard at it. Usually, I need to force myself to read two or three chapters before I care enough to continue fighting a point of view that I don’t like. However, I was starting the second chapter of this book before I consciously thought about how it was written.
That aside, the characters are great, the storyline compelling, and the pace excellent. She balances tension with hope, treacherous scenarios with believable escapes. I can’t wait to read more of this series.
Oftentimes, we only start relying on God’s strength when we have none of our own. This was a prevalent theme in Jody Hedlund’s Always.
Lance, one of the king’s elite guards, is strong and fierce and has been trained to rely only on his own strength and wisdom. Lance, along with Felicia, a noblewoman who vowed to protect three orphan princesses, embark on a long and dangerous journey to ensure the princesses survive to one day reclaim the throne. When faced with overwhelming challenges, Lance finally realizes that he cannot overcome those challenges alone; he needs God and others to help him.
Always is non-stop action from the start! It has surprises and suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat! I highly recommend this book and can’t wait to start Evermore to see what happens to the princesses.
*I received an advanced ebook copy from the author, but all opinions are my own.
Please forgive me if I squee a bit. Oh my…What a beautiful book to discover. I’m not one for YA Historical but I made an exception. What sold me? I’m not afraid to say, the cover. Stunning, isn’t? But there is more to this book than the cover. There is intrigue, romance, and its set in medieval times, too. Ms. Hedlund wrote a book that I just couldn’t put down. Shocked? You shouldn’t be, because I love a well-written book regardless of the genre.
I really enjoyed getting to know Felicia and Lance. Willing to sacrifice themselves for the greater good and finding the strength that neither one of them thought they had. Ms. Hedlund has written a strong female character that I fell in love with and a hero that reminded me of a lot of Lancelot. Yes, I’m a sucker for anything King Arthur and Robin Hood. Sue me. Anyway, their beginning wasn’t on easy footing but as the book moved along, you can see the respect and love that they had for each other. Keep in mind that this is a sweet book and at times inspirational, as it should be. Ms. Hedlund doesn’t beat you over the head with it but it is there and subtle.
There is plenty of action, adventure, and suspense. The villain in the book, the evil King Ethelwulf is vile, to say the least. That said, I’m glad that he will be in the other books, as well. I enjoy knowing that the arc will be played out during the series. The world-building is phenomenal. I’m definitely hooked now and look forward to the other books in the series.