An ancient key. A secret treasure. And a princess destined to use them both to fight evil and restore peace.Raised by a noble family, Lady Adelaide has always known she’s an orphan. Little does she realize she’s one of the lost princesses and the true heir to Mercia’s throne…until a visitor arrives at her family estate, reveals her birthright as queen, and thrusts her into a quest for the throne … quest for the throne whether she’s ready or not.
Unable to tolerate King Ethelwulf’s cruelty and lawlessness, Christopher Langley left Mercia years earlier, training a group of rebels in neighboring Norland. When he returns home after his mother’s death, he discovers that not only is Adelaide all grown up, but she’s also the rightful queen of Mercia.
When King Ethelwulf discovers Adelaide’s location, he’ll stop at nothing to capture her and the key she holds to the ancient treasure. Christopher is just as determined to protect Adelaide so she can lead the growing rebellion. When feelings ignite between the two old friends, forces threaten to destroy their love and rip them apart forever.
YA books by Jody Hedlund:
The Lost Princesses
Prequel Novella: Always
Book 1: Evermore
Book 2: Foremost (Sept 2019)
Book 3: Hereafter (Oct 2019)
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 Bride Ships Series
Book 1: A Reluctant Bride
Book 2: The Runaway Bride
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
This book is excellent! It had the right amount of action and romance. I loved it! This new series is captivating! I didn’t want to stop reading! I’m really looking forward to reading 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.
Evermore, by Jody Hedlund, is the first book in The Lost Princesses series. This young adult novel is a gripping medieval adventure filled with thrilling moments of danger, intrigue, courage, faith, and romance.
Wonderfully well- written in the first person perspectives of the two main characters, this novel is thoroughly engaging and entertaining. The contrasting elements of peril and bravery, mystery and discovery, and love and loss ensure that the plot of this story is immensely compelling and satisfying. Themes of trust, selflessness, and destiny import purpose to this story making it significant and inspiring. Interesting, complex characters who are full of heart and boldness ensure that this book is relatable and truly captivating.
Evermore is a young adult novel that can easily be enjoyed by both teens and adults. Detailed and memorable, this novel is worthwhile, clean, and edifying. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
*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.
I don’t know any young lady (or lady young at heart) who can resist a medieval tale of damsels, danger, and intrigue. Battles of good and evil appeal to our innermost reader desires.
Strategy, bravery, and sacrifice are the foundation of an exciting and captivating plot. The endearing Evermore characters reflect compassion, loyalty, faith, and attraction. Intelligent strategy and well-honed skills are utilized in the main characters’ quest and each of them strives to fulfill God’s will for their life.
My daughter and I both enjoyed this story as well as the prequel novella. We look forward to reading the rest of the series (and she has already leaped ahead of me to dive into the next book)!
I borrowed this title through the Kindle Unlimited program. The opinions expressed are my own.
From the very beginning I was intrigued with Hedlund’s characters, especially the heroine, Adelaide, when the opening scene has her masquerading as her male cousin in a joust. Soon after, she learns that her true identity is the Crown Princess of Mercia and from then on she is on a quest to restore peace and prosperity to her kindgom, which is now being ruled by the evil King Ethelwulf. From that point on, the plot moved quickly with twists and turns that kept me swiping the electronic pages of my Kindle long after I should have gone to bed.
Adelaide is a spirited heroine whose strength comes from her noble character, her compassion for her subjects, and her faith in God. Though she struggles to imagine herself as the future Queen of Mercia, her character grows during the story and she is finally able to embrace the destiny God has planned for her.
Though her “cousins” Mitchell and Christopher are at odds with one another, they both vow to protect Adelaide and see her safely restored to the throne of Mercia. Both young men prove themselves to be heroes worthy of Adelaide’s affections, and their characters grow throughout the story as they face danger around every turn and willingly sacrifice they’re own safety to protect Adelaide.
Though they are vastly outnumbered at first, it doesn’t take long for word to spread that Princess Constance has been found and as the people learn of her genuine kindness and concern, they come to her aid. There is plenty of action and adventure as the trio and there growing entourage must battle the king’s elite knights repeatedly. The romance was was wonderfully written as well. You could feel the angst between Adelaide and Christopher as they struggle to deal with the growing attraction between them. Hedlund gives you plenty of swoon-worthy moments while keeping the romance sweet enough for YA readers.
As a writer of historical romance, I found this medieval tale packed full of historical details. From the description of the body armor to the dialogue brimming with antiquated words (so glad I could click on my Kindle dictionary), she steeps the reader in the middle ages and takes you on a journey back in time.
While the story is packed with spiritual themes like love, faith and forgiveness, what stands out most to me is the quest Adelaide and Christopher are on to fulfill their God-given destiny. There were so many obstacles that stood in their way, so many opportunities to let fear overtake them. At any point they could have chosen to play-it-safe. Instead, they chose to put their faith in God and allow him to work His perfect will in their lives. It was a strong reminder that God often chooses to work through ordinary people to accomplish His extraordinary plan. Not our will but thine be done.
Readers who enjoy YA fiction or historical romance will enjoy this book. I’ve been wanting to read a Jody Hedlund book for quite a long time and I have to say that her other books I’ve been accumulating on my Kindle won’t have to wait long to see the light of day.
I was provided a free copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to leave a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
The rebellion begins
My rating is 3.5 stars
Evermore is the story of the rightful queen of Mercia, though raised in ignorant of this fact. Queen Constance had always believed she was Lady Adelaide, a nobleman’s daughter left orphaned when she was a very young child.
The premise to this story is great and the quest Adelaide and her cousins embark on to escape from the evil king who now ruled the land leads them on a perilous journey pursued by the king’s elite guard.
Adelaide is a strong young woman who excels in skills generally considered appropriate only for men, such as jousting and hunting. It was fun how Christopher knew she was the falconer when he saw her falcon catch a rabbit, knowing his brother didn’t have the skills necessary to train it to do this. She was determined enough that she almost got them into some big trouble and she had to learn to humble herself and submit to Christopher’s superior leadership. Of all her characteristics, my favorites were her kindness and determination to help those in need, even at great cost to herself.
Christopher was the misunderstood earl who had angrily left his family when he saw what he perceived as their bowing to an unworthy king. He then served the king of the northern lands and further honed his skills as a warrior. I really liked Christopher!
I enjoyed the burgeoning romance between Adelaide and Christopher and the way they fought their attraction to one another. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen and was surprised by some of the events.
The language of the story seemed stilted, and though the stage was set in Always, the backstory was repeated here and was a bit tedious in parts. I would have preferred the author expect her readers to have read the prequel and know these details beforehand, or to have communicated them more creatively.
As this is the story of a rebellion, I suppose violence is expected. Some of the awful things the king did seemed overly gruesome even without going into great detail. It certainly was not more than you would find in a PG movie but younger and more sensitive audiences should be aware of this.
While the story is listed as Historical fiction, I would consider it more of a fantasy. Young adults (and adults) who enjoy fantasy should consider reading this interesting series.
Read my review of Evermore 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.
Lady Adelaide in hiding from the wicked King Ethelwulf of Mercia, has celebrated her twentieth birthday with her adopted family. She has no idea that she is the missing crown princess Constance, legal heir of the throne of Mercia. Her Aunt who has raised her is terminally ill and on her death bed she tells Adelaide who she really is and encourages her to reclaim the throne of Mercia from the wicked king Ethelwulf, who now dominates the kingdom.
Lady Adelaide and her two step cousins Lord Christopher Langley and Mitchell Langley go in search of her twin sisters , the other two lost princesses. Soon the search becomes a chase as the evil King Ethelwulf pursues them in hope of finding all three princesses. The story becomes an action packed nail biting chase with many unexpected twists and turns thrown in . Will Adelaide be successful in finding her sisters and evading her enemies who seek to capture her ?
Jody Hedlund is a gifted writer and she holds nothing back from readers in her latest release Evermore. She keeps my interest through out the book. Normally medieval fiction isn’t my genre but this author pens a beautiful and romantic novel that I can’t resist.
All fans of Jody Hedlund , medieval fiction or Christian Fiction will love this book. I highly recommend it. I also recommend that you first read the prequel Always before reading Evermore.
I bought a Kindle ebook version of Evermore from Amazon. A positive review was not requested. All opinions expressed here are my own.
“Always” was the beginning. The story continues with “Evermore.” An exciting adventure of its own as Adelaide comes of age and learns her true identity.
This book grabbed a hold of me from the first joust and didn’t let go!
As Adelaide comes to grips with the reality that she is Constance Dierdal Aurora, the crown princess of Mercia, she is forced into a battle for her life.
The story truly is an action/battle filled adventure that had me on the edge of my seat. I was also drawn to the softer side of the story. The truths of family, loyalty, love, and destiny. The quiet moments of conversation, attraction, and personal turmoil.
My inner reading voice slowed to a whisper as Sister Katherine entered the room and bowed to Adelaide. I held my breath as she told her “You will one day be a great queen, …Not because of what you accomplish, but because of who you will become as a woman of God.” And again, much later when Christopher tells Adelaide ” You must face the demons of your past so that you can force yourself to finally walk beyond them. ”
There are plenty of fun moments too. I laughed out loud when King Draybane told Christopher, “God gifted you with a handsome face and a charming smile. Use them…”
I am eagerly awaiting the next books in this series! Will Adelaide find her sisters? What will become of Ethlewulf and the Kingdom of Mercia?
“I think we are all in need of taming,” Christopher answered with more seriousness than I expected. “If we are blessed to find someone who is willing to kindly speak truth into our weaknesses, then we shall be better for it.”
This is book 1 of the Lost Princesses series but there is a prequel novella called Always that would be helpful to read before embarking on this dazzling series. Jody Hedlund takes us on a breath-taking journey of medieval YA fairytale involving three “lost” princesses finally coming of age and discovering that there is a kingdom to rescue. The author’s beautiful writing, tightly knitted plot with great action and plenty of twists and turns, realistic and totally lovable characters, and themes of forgiveness and mercy even in the face of bitterness and family feuds all make this book clearly a top pick for the year.
Adelaide (Princess Constance), who is the oldest of the princesses, has been tucked away in Lord Langley’s family as a niece but discovers her true identity before Lady Langley passes away. Christopher is the disowned elder son of Lord Langley who secreted away to a neighboring nation as a soldier when the new king forcibly took the throne. Christopher’s return home causes much trouble between himself and his younger brother, even as they try to figure out how to find the other two princesses to restore the rightful heirs to the throne.
This book is a must-read for all! I can’t wait for the second and third books to get acquainted with the twin princesses!
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.
My Review of Evermore by Jody Hedlund: Evermore started with an opening that one would expect from A Knight’s Tale . . . Quite humorous as the switch takes place, I do have to say I was annoyed that I figured out the plot “twist” so soon as the second chapter, maybe it was just me but I felt that it was cliche and does HE have to die? Seriously! I expected it from the start but why? Ugh, not recovering well from the death of one character. sniffles Why!?! He deserved better and it wouldn’t be too bad it he stuck around.
Other then the murdering author and I disagreeing about a characters morality this is a need to read not to be missed novel.
(No spoiler warnings as I am still upset with the author.)
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review – all the thoughts are my own.
This turns out to be just as a good as the prequel novella (Always). Lots of great action, amazing and intense plot, smooth and clean storyline. I didn’t know it will be this good. There are so much happening in the story that gave me so many feelings about this book.
This is the story of the first lost princess (Princess Constance/Adelaide). The story focus on Adelaide finding the truth about her actual identity and her growth as a character. Also, the story shows her journey to become the queen of Mercia; how she live up to her title, how the people respect her and her adventure in finding her sisters and trying to survive from being hunted by the vile king of Mercia (King Ethelwulf).
The amount of action in this book was truly satisfying. It reminds me a lot of the prequel novella, Always. The scene with the wolves truly remind me of what happened to Lance and Felicia in Always. I’m so excited for their return, maybe they will come back in the final book. I missed Lance and Felicia, it’s just not the same without them. I do love this book and I know this should focus on Adelaide and the new characters, but it wouldn’t hurt to hope for Lance and Felicia’s return right! I have to wait for the next two books to come out to see them again.
I liked that the author doesn’t leave out the thing about King Solomon’s treasure that has been mentioned since the prequel. I was wondering what it was all about, and I was glad the subject is being brought up again in this one and there was a clear explanation about what the treasure holds and why it is so important. Two more lost princesses to find and then we finally get to see the treasure.
Adelaide is a great and strong heroine. She is an independent young woman who can handle things on her own, and she has great fighting skills. I was amazed seeing her in action. There was a scene where we can see her vulnerability. She still had nightmares about what happened to her in the past—as clearly shown in the prequel novella. She is clearly a fighter. The whole book just shows how much she grew as a character, and I loved her development. She has proven herself to be the true queen of Mercia and she won the heart of her own people and the people from other kingdom so easily. She proved to be more than just a skilled-fighter, and that she is just as intelligent as she is strong. There are times I was irritated by her, and those times was when she had to pick between the two men she cared the most and how she react to certain things sometimes.
Christopher is the true Earl of Langley. I understood why he had to leave his family behind and went to another kingdom and work there. He did all that with good intention and mostly to gather an army so that he can remove King Ethelwulf from the throne. I truly get his reasoning, I couldn’t blame him for doing what he did and it was a smart move on his part, but by doing so he hurt his family especially his youngest brother. Christopher is a knight, he has a great fighting skills and always protect Adelaide the whole time. He made it his mission to protect and save her from any danger because he need her alive not just for him, but also for the people of Mercia. He was eager to put Adelaide back on the throne. He is pretty clever too, and his genius plan always work so well. He is very smart in every move that he made and he truly is the best warrior. He remind me a lot of Lance, it was clear that there are some similarities between these two. His character remain consistent throughout the story, which is why he is my favorite.
Aside from focusing on Adelaide’s journey on finding her sisters, building an alliance, and trying to find the treasure that can help her win the throne back, the story also focus on Adelaide and Christopher’s relationship. Their romance was very angsty, the romance between Lance and Felicia was also angsty but this one is more angsty. They both have feelings for one another but admitting it makes them nervous. Christopher always think she deserve a better man than him. Adelaide always think he will only reject her and that she need to keep him at arm’s length because she can’t handle his rejection. The whole thing been testing my patience, honestly. It took them long enough to finally get together, but the ending was sweet and I’m happy for them. Christopher is Adelaide’s knight, just like Lance is Felicia’s knight. Now I’m wondering who will be the other two princesses’ knights. Could Ethelrex be a knight to one of the two princesses? I’m sure he was mentioned in the book for a reason.
The whole story was enjoyable to read. I loved the whole thing about building an alliance at the end there. I loved the storyline and the plot.
Talk about an amazing story! I LOVED this book and cannot wait to read the rest of the series. From the very beginning I fell in love with the characters in this book. Adelaide is strong and wise and I loved her journey. Christopher is exactly the right man to be by her side and the romance and build up between the two was just so wonderful. This book had me swooning, cheering, and tearing up a little. Well written, full of great thoughts and Christian values, this is a book I am going to be adding to my permanent collection. I highly recommend this book for fans of YA, romance, or even fairytales.
Once upon a time…while “Evermore” is not based on a specific fairy tale, it has all the things fairy tale fanatics will enjoy–adventure and romance, castles and knights, evil usurper kings and princesses in disguise. The result is an entertaining read that whisks you away to a world of sword fights, danger, and ancient puzzles. There is some moderate to strong violence, which more strongly echoes a Grimm fairy tale than the Disney versions. So while “Evermore” is not my personal favorite of the Hedlund YA books that I’ve read, it is still a worthwhile read, especially for those who enjoy a fairytale-styled story.
Wow. Action, adventure, uncertainty, a good guy seems to turn weak but then maybe not, a different good guy becomes better . . . and all with the threat and reality of very evil forces operating against them. This book adds so much to the launching novella, and I’ve already downloaded the second book so I can continue with this intense journey.
What an amazing book! I absolutely loved it! Evermore is the first in the lost princess series but it’s helpful to have read Always, the prequel, as it gives the background of the story. Evermore really shows the true meaning of love in sacrificing for others. A beautiful story of love, loss, bravery, and strength, it intrigued me from the beginning. I can’t wait for Foremost!
* I received an advanced ebook copy from the author, but all opinions are my own.
MY THOUGHTS ON “Evermore”
If you have read the novella, “Always”, then you will want to read “Evermore” because it is book one that follows. Lady Adelaide is the true heir to Mercia’s throne and holds to the ancient treasure. King Ethelwulf wants that treasure, but not if Christopher Langley can help it. This sets for a dangerous journey, one you are sure to want to follow!
I love a good fairytale, and author Jody Hedlund writes just that in her new medieval series. I love the characters, and how they develop so well into the story. I was pulled into the story from the beginning, and this was a hard one for me to put down, once I started reading. Theres a lot of good and evil going on here, and I wouldn’t begin to know how to tell it, but that’s why you need to read the book for yourself. Especially if you love a good clean fairytale fantasy. You can’t go wrong with “Evermore”.
I love that Ms. Hedlund writes amazing YA books, just as she does historical fiction. We need both genres to read! And I love this cover! It is so beautiful and eye catching! I would sure pick this book from the shelves to buy!
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.
Again, another squee for me. I just can’t with this series. I’m a middle-aged woman that is totally enamored with this series and author. I have never read anything by Ms. Hedlund before and I’m sad. I went back and looked at her backlist and I almost slapped myself. Seriously? Her Noble Knights series looks amazing. Anyway…
This is such a great book. The book opens with the princesses grown up. They were separated so the intrigue is upped somewhat now. King Ethelwulf is still bent on finding them and destroying everything that Mercia holds dear for their people. We see that he will stop at nothing to destroy the good that is still there with the people. Unfortunately, Adelaide wants nothing to do with any of it. Thrust into, she finds her voice with the help of her childhood friend, Christopher. *sigh* Talk about a knight in shining armor. Christopher and Adelaide are a great couple. They compliment each other and find their voice with each other’s help.
I will warn you that the book is violent. Not overly, but considering the plot and setting of the book, it is necessary. You need to see just how evil and what the King will do to find the key and destroy what is good. Adelaide is a strong character that I fell in love with. When she finds her voice, there is nothing to stop her. With the help and love of Christopher, there is nothing that she won’t do for her people.
Peeps, I really can’t say enough about this series. I know that you are probably saying that I haven’t said enough, but truly I have. Ms. Hedlund has written a wonderful story with an evil king, princesses, knights and a world that I wouldn’t mind living in. I can’t wait to meet the other princesses.
This story is a delight to read.
In this one, we get to meet the beautiful Adelaide. On her twentieth birthday, she discovered the truth about who she was–none other than the hidden princess Constance, and the rightful ruler of Mercia. Her two cousins, Mitchell and Christopher, accompany her on a quest to find her two sisters, twins, who have also been in hiding.
Now, they hope to regain rule of their country.
Adelaide has to come to grips with her new found knowledge. Gone is life as she knew it.
The setting is delightful, the twists and turns, engaging, filled with danger, and yes, even suspense. You never know just what to expect. This story kept me reading, and left me wanting more. I can’t wait to read the last two books in this series!!
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
This one takes the cake!
What a beautifully spun tale of determination, purpose, kindness, and forgiving charity. A heartfelt and touching inspirational saga. I just loved it!
(I have voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.)
Evermore (The Lost Princesses, Book 1) by Jody Hedlund
This followed the prequel novella, Always, and it was another page turner! There was enough action to keep you on your toes and there was a love triangle between the oldest princess (Constance) and her two friends that she grew up as a cousin with (Christopher and Mitchell). But once she learns from her adopted Aunt on her deathbed, that she is the true heir to the crown of her country, everything changes.
Another great read!
After reading the compelling prequel novella to this series, I couldn’t wait to discover the fates of the three lost princesses. Adelaide is the oldest of the three, and discovers her true identity at the beginning of the book. The author did a great job of giving the reader a sense of her character and personality before the action and adventure swept the story into a faster pace. Reunited with Adelaide after several years of being disowned by his father, Christopher faces his own dilemmas but the themes of loyalty, family, and forgiveness help him and Adelaide overcome the obstacles in their paths. I easily connected with the characters and felt the danger and excitement as I read. I’m looking forward to the next two books and am *very* appreciative that there won’t be a long wait for them!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)