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
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MY THOUGHTS ON “Always”
Always is a delightful change from what I am use to reading and this YA fairytale is a fun and interesting read. In this novella, author Jody Hedlund gives readers an insight into her new medival series, The Lost Princesses. The wonderful characters are just a taste of what’s to come in the series. As Mercia is in a difficult time, the Queen gives birth to twin daughters, and she begs Lady Felicia to hid them. After agreeing, the Lady and the twin daughters barely escapes in time to save them all, with the help of one if the Kings guards.
Ms. Hedlund out does herself as usually in the sweet young adult story. With the characters and story twists any young adult, or adult will enjoy this short novella. This is a great book and will be a wonderful series for your teenage daughters. I love authors who give their time to write such awesome books for this age group. Be sure and check this Novella, and this series out. Oh and I can’t forget the cover. It is beyond stunning. I always love blue covers and this is one of the most beautiful I’ve seen!
A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Can’t wait for the next in the series
(I have voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.)
Always (The Lost Princesses, prequel) by Jody Hedlund
A youth and faithful lady in waiting and an elite guard from the King’s army are both tasked with saving the newborn princesses and their older sister… And in order to save them, they go through some very hard tasks along the way. In the end, doing what is best for all 3 sisters!
Jody Hedlund has made me a lover of medieval historicals!
This was very well written and a page turner!
This is a great novella for introducing us to the backstory of the three lost princesses in Jody Hedlund’s exciting new YA series! The reader is thrust into the action which never slows down- danger is nipping at the heels of Lance and Felicia throughout the story which gives it a quick, suspenseful pace. The world-building is vivid and I felt like I got a good sense of the setting as well as the dynamic of the kingdom, its people, and its enemies. The author skillfully weaves in character development and I felt invested in the fate of these selfless people who sacrifice for their kingdom. Lance’s awakening of feeling for Felicia was sweet and I admired his fortitude over the years of denying himself. It makes their budding romance a little rocky, though, since he’s not used to allowing himself any emotional connection to a woman. Felicia recognizes the noble qualities he has and appreciates the action he takes to protect her and the princesses. Their falling in love was only natural and I enjoyed the special moments they share. I’m so excited to read the books in this series!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
This is the perfect prequel to the upcoming book, Evermore, Jody Hedlund! I completed this prequel in one sitting and with good reason. Readers learn the back story of the future queen and what a backstory it is! I couldn’t put this down until I read the last page. While the story ends at a good point, I didn’t want it to end. Mrs. Hedlund has such a wonderful way with words; I was drawn into the story from the first page. The character development is impeccable. The scenery descriptions leave one feeling like they are in the story. Just so you know, the ending will leave you wanting more!
While this is labeled for YA, I loved this book (and I’m not YA). It is a good clean story with great character development, use of setting, plot development, and detail. The pacing is fast due to this being a novella but it is so full of detail that one doesn’t feel rushed. With medieval history as the setting, this is a unique and interesting story that will keep the reader’s attention. This is one of those just one more chapter books that one just can’t put down until the last word.
I was provided an advance review copy (ARC) of this book with no expectations but that I give my honest review.
This prequel novella sets the stage for a world of adventure and treachery, love and honor, sacrifice and bravery. The Lost Princesses series is a great choice for both teens and adults alike who crave stories where noble heroes and heroines will go the extra distance to keep a solemn vow.
I so enjoyed reading this book and getting the background story of Lance and Felicia’s quest to protect the three princesses of Mercia. The slow bloom of the love story between these two was simply perfect, too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I’ve been anticipating this book and this new series by Jody Hedlund since I first heard about it! I was so anxious to get started. This novella really sets the stage for the following books. It’s an in-depth look into the series of unfortunate events leading up to the lost princesses. Honestly, it was heartbreaking. Two countries are at war, there is death and destruction everywhere. King Ethelwulf is a brute and will stop at nothing to gain the victory, the throne and the treasure. What he doesn’t count on is the loyalty and devotion of two brave people who are willing to risk everything to see the future of their country preserved through the three young princesses.
Both Lady Felicia and Lance are fierce in their loyalty. The vows they made to the queen and king are binding to them and come before all else. I loved them both. They fought hard, they committed and they stayed the course no matter what was against them. How can you not love that?! Honestly.
I loved the pacing of this book- fast and exciting. There was hardly time to breathe! I am so glad I got to immediately read the next book without waiting.
Always by Jody Hedlund is the novella that is the beginning of her new YA fairy tale series, The Lost Princesses. If you love fairy tales you don’t want to miss out.
The King and Queen of Mercia would do anything to protect their children so when they both realize they are dying and need to entrust that their children will be protected, the queen chooses Felicia, the youngest of her ladies-in-waiting and the king chooses Lance of the Elite Guard to get their children out of the city and to keep them safe until they can rightfully return and take their place once again in the royal castle.
I’m looking forward to reading more books in this wonderful series!
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
This little novella got started with a bigger bang than I anticipated and the story just kept moving right till the end! My heart was racing as Lance and Felicia fought to keep the princesses safe from those who chased them! I greatly admired the way they both thought nothing of sacrificing everything to protect the rightful heirs to the throne! I really liked both of their characters and enjoyed seeing their relationship develop.
Hedlund created a great story world and perfectly set up the books that are coming in this series! I definitely recommend reading this first so you can see how everything gets started! I’m looking forward to reading each of the princesses stories and seeing how the story will end!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This prequel novella to Jody Hedlund’s The Lost Princesses trilogy is one readers do not want to miss as there is an abundant amount of backstory that will likely come into play as each of the princesses gets her own story and happily ever after.
On the run from an invading king with the true royal family’s heirs, Lady Felicia and Lance, a member of the king’s elite guard, outsmart and outmaneuver those intent on eliminating a threat.
Hedlund’s vivid descriptions of the land and the people set up the land of Mercia and give readers an excellent feel for those on both sides of the fight. From the first chapter, the danger nips at the readers’ heels as they embark on a sacrificial quest to save their beloved royal family.
The romance is intense but since Lance has had very little interaction with women, it’s also rocky. As these two characters give up everything they’ve know to save three little girls, the scene is set for when Constance, Maribel, and Emmaline are ready to take their rightful places. My fingers are crossed that we’ll see Lance and Felicia again.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I loved this introduction to the Lost Princesses. You know you are in for a good series when you can’t put down the prequel! I really can’t wait to see how the Princesses lives have turned out and how they will beat the evil that has taken over their kingdom.
This novella features Felicia, a lady in waiting to the Queen. She is to take the newborn twins and the heir to the throne to safety. She and one of the King’s guards, Lance, take on a perilous journey to save the Princesses. The story was filled with action and adventure that I had a hard time putting it down.
I am so excited to read the series!!!!
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Always
The Lost Princesses: Prequel
By Jody Hedlund
King Ethelwulf of Warwick has determined that the Kingdom Mercia is rightfully his and nothing will stand in his way. And King Ethelwulf will show no mercy having employed the fierce and fearsome Saracens to fight against the Mercian troops.
As Ethelwulf lays siege to the castle Queen Aurora accepts Lady Felicia’s vow to save the lives of her children – 3-year-old crown princess Constance, and the twin daughters that she has just birthed. At just 17 years Felicia is unsure how she will accomplish such a task but she has pledged everything to fulfill her promise to the dying queen.
King Francis of Mercia has entrusted the safety of his family and the future of Mercia into the hands of his most trusted member of the Elite Guard – Lance. Lance has been entrusted with the princesses and the means of proving their heritage when the time to reclaim what has been lost is upon them. Equipped to battle the enemy Lance has no skills with caring for children much less just born babes. And the noble young woman who has the princesses isn’t about to hand them over.
With the enemy just behind them, Lance and Felicia must make their escape from the castle and reach a place of safety to protect their charges. But Ethelwulf wants none left alive who may make a claim to the throne of Mercia and so escape may be more challenging than they are prepared for. And are they willing to give up all that they have known for three princesses who may never reclaim their heritage?
Just a warning the ending will leave you wanting more – fortunately, the first book of the series releases just a few days later so there won’t be a long wait. This is yet another lovely read for the YA audience who wants clean reading. Those familiar with Jody Hedlund’s previous YA series Noble Knights will love this new world that is opening with this novella. With a nod to medieval history as the setting this is a unique story that will keep the reader’s attention. This is one of those just one more chapter books that one just can’t put down until the last word.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion – all thoughts expressed are my own.
This books starts with action and continues on. I love how the characters struggle with themselves to do the right thing, both having the same goal. I also liked how they found strengths they didn’t know they possessed. The journey was not an easy one! I can not wait to read more! I highly recommend this book for teens and adults alike! I received a copy of this book from the author. All views stated here are my own.
A new series geared toward YA, but equally enjoyable by adult readers, Always by Jodi Hedlund is the prequel novella to The Lost Princesses. As a reader, I am more familiar with this author’s historical romance novels, however, Hedlund has accomplished the jump across genres and age group with finesse.
At a dark time in the nation of Mercia, the Queen gives birth to twin daughters; the birth has taken its toll on the Queen and begs Lady Felicia to take the tiny infants into hiding. Believing her Queen is dying, Lady Felicia agrees to the request even as the enemies are battering down the doors of the castle. Lady Felicia barely escapes in time to save herself and the babes.
Lance, one of the King’s elite guards, has been tasked by the gravely wounded king to protect all the princesses, including an older daughter already ensconced in a safe place, and the keys to an ancient treasure. Finding Lady Felicia preparing an escape of the tiny newborn girls, he leads the way.
It has been a long time since I’ve read a fairytale, with kings and queens; ladies-in-waiting and bold nights, and an enemy determined to find the prize. I really enjoyed reading Always, and recommend it for both YA and adults.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and am under no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions therein are solely my own, and freely given.
This is a novella??? Could have fooled me. I’ve read novels that haven’t been as rich and complete as this book. Jody Hedlund has outdone herself with Always! I have never read a young adult, fairytale, medieval type setting book before and was quite surprised with how much I LOVED this book. Although I shouldn’t have been as anything Jody Hedlund write is amazing. I found the characters to be excellent, some of the best characterization I have read. I loved getting lost in this book! It was like stepping right into the time period, location, etc. The characters and settings are real and believable. By the time you’re done reading it leaves you wanting to check in on them later to see how everyone is doing. Which is exactly what I plan on doing as soon as every book in this series comes out! I highly recommend this book.
A beautifully woven tapestry of devotion, sacrifice, and love.
Such strength and beauty in one powerful little word- Always! Thank you for weaving such a beautiful picture of love and devotion with your touching story which will remain in our hearts – Always.
I love Jody Hedlund’s stories. When I read her first YA book, I thought I wouldn’t like them as much as the more adult ones, and I was wrong! I love her YA medieval stories too!
And this prequel was no exception. Although short, as prequel ussually are, I was captivated from page one and couldn’t put it down. It starts in the midst of a tragedy, two vow’s and fleeing their Kingdom with the newborn princesses to save them from their biggest enemy who is about to reclaim the throne.
Queen Aurora dies after giving birth to her twin daughters, but not before making Felicia vow she will take the princesses to a safe place and protect them. King Francis of Mercia dies from his wounds in battle, but not before making Lance vow he’ll save his daughters from Ethelwulf’s wrath and evil desire for power.
Lance and Felicia have made their own vow’s to their king and queen. lance is sure Felicia will only slow him down, but Felicia is determined not to live the princesses alone and protect them with her own life. Both are loyal, incredible characters. I really loved them. They are honest, loyal, respectful, but kind and selfless. So it’s impossible for admiration and stronger feelings not to grow in their journey to find the oldest princess, protected in an abbey.
This book is full of adventures, danger and peril, keeping always their lives on the line while they try to escape Ethelwulf’s army, a pack of wolves and many other dangers just to ensure the princesses safety.
It’s the start to the princesses story, but Lance and Felicia were the best part of the start. they are so loyal to their Majesties and the princesses, that they are willing to isk everything they had. A title, family, freedom. Will it be worth it? When the only solution arrives as a marriage of convenience they both feel unsure. Sure enough, there are feelings, and lots of admiration, but is it love?, will it sustain them though their new life?
I thought it was a beautiful sorry. I was sad it ended so quickly but I’m guessing we’ll be knowing more about Lance and Felicia’s lives through the princesses adventures in the coming books. I loved this couple. I want more!
Thanks Jody for a wonderful and captivating story. You made it so real I was really afraid for their lives. And I was touched for every single gesture of kindness, protection, selfgiving and sacrifice that each of the hero and heroine exposed.
I can’t wait to read Evermore. In fact I’m starting it right now!
Definitely recommended, young adults, mid-adults, elderly, anyone! So sweet1
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but wasn’t required to review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Warning! Do not start this story unless you have the next hour or two free-because once you start, you will NOT want to stop till you finish-and even then you will be looking for the next book stat! This story sets up Jody’s next series of three orphaned princesses hidden away from their cruel and murderous uncle who stole the throne from their father. In “Always” we are introduced to Felicia and Lance who give up nearly everything to save the orphaned princesses. It is an exciting read wondering if Lance and Felicia will manage to escape with the three babies. This is an immersive tale that sucked me in from the very beginning. Very enjoyable read! I am looking forward to reading each of the princess’s stories as soon as possible!
I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
Always, the prequel to Jody Hedlund’s new series The Lost Princesses. This novella gets readers started into her new medieval series for young adults and adults too. Readers are rewarded with this action packed unpredictable adventure into the days of knights of the Kings Court and noble ladies of fine upbringing .
Felicity, a noble lady in the Queens court helps attend the dying Queen while she gives birth to twin girls. The castle and kingdom is under attack at this time and the Queen on her dying breath pleads with Felicity to take the new born twins plus the crown princess and escape to a safe haven far from the conquering enemy.
The King lays dying within his own cambers. Wounded severely in battle he calls out to his most trusted knight to take his children and escape the castle and certain death at the hands of the cruel invaders. Lance is surprised when he learns that a noble lady in waiting will also be accompanying him in his escape with the Princesses. This fine lady can only slow his attempts for a quick escape. He tries to persuade her to stay behind but Felicity won’t agree to that and insists on going with him.
Can this unlikely pair pull this dangerous escape off. For sure they will be chased and pursued by many of their enemies intent on killing anyone still loyal to their dead King and Queen and destroying any heirs to their throne in years to come.
I was swept into this intriguing escape and suspended in anxious uncertainty as their quest for freedom and survival played out page by page. This novella prequel sets the stage for Jody’s new release coming out later this month.
If medieval is your genre or if you love Jody Hedlund’s books this is for you.
I bought a kindle ebook of Always from Amazon. A favorable review was not requested. All opinions expressed here are my own.
I was in a bit of a rut when I picked up this book, having struggled through the last two short stories I read. I was ready for something completely different and am so happy I decided to try this novella. It was just what I needed. Such a breath of fresh air. Such a delightful read full of heart-stopping adventures and a gloriously sweet romance.
While this is a novella, the story lacked for nothing. I was fully riveted by this tale from beginning to end. I wasn’t expecting it to be as action-packed as it was, but my goodness, I could hardly put it down for all the excitement! I highly recommend it and am very eager for the next book!