Evermore (The Lost Princesses Book 1)

Mrs. Hedlund has written another page-turner of a story! While this story is labeled as YA, I thoroughly enjoyed this story (and I’m not YA). This story is based during the majestical time of queens and kings and kept me up way past my bedtime! I loved the characters in this story, their development, and the way the story moves along. This story has great use of setting, plot, pacing, and detail. There were many twists and turns–just enough to keep the reader guessing about what is next to come.

Evermore is the first book in the Lost Princesses series but it isn’t the beginning. The prequel novella is Always, but it isn’t necessary to read Always in order to enjoy reading Evermore, although knowing the backstory is always nice. Evermore is the first book, and it is complete in itself. The reader can anticipate the next book without being left hanging. The reader knows more is coming but it is a satisfying ending.

I recommend this story to anyone who loves the time period of kings and queens, anyone looking for a clean read, anyone who is willing to stay up past their bedtime, and anyone who loves a great hero!

I was provided with an advance reader copy of this book with no expectations except that I provide an honest review.

4.5 stars

I LOVE this series. That’s all there is to it. I want to keep reading it, but unfortunately, the next two books haven’t come out yet. It’s probably a good thing, this way I can get a little bit of sleep while I wait for them.

This story has many elements that I love. There is action, adventure, strong female characters, romance, medieval setting, self-sacrifice… if I don’t stop now it could end up being a very long list.

Lady Adelaide finds out on her birthday that she is a Princess, not only a Princess but the heir to the throne of Mercia. She has been hidden from the world at a remote estate. She has a family that she loves. Growing up with male cousins, who are more like brothers, has given her the ability to fight like a knight. She is spunky, kind, and compassionate. She is respected because of her work in helping out the people who have been drained financially by the King who conquered her country.

In this story, she is in a fight for her life and her kingdom. She has men who are loyal helping her unravel clues that will lead her to her sisters and an ancient treasure that will help overthrow King Ethelwulf. I really did not want to put it down. I need to know how they would outthink and outmaneuver the force pursuing them.

I have to mention that this book also contains romance. (Yay) Falling in love with a worthy man is a must for any Princess/Queen who is in a fight to regain her country. I must say that I was very happy with her love life. It was satisfying to read about. 😉

I NEED to finish this series. I have to know if there will be a “happily-ever-after” for Adelaide and her sisters. I may or may not have pre-ordered the second book that comes out two days after my birthday.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Jody Hedlund has a gift for writing. No doubt about it. This Lost Princesses series falls right in my sweet spot for reading. I am transported to the world she created with characters I can love and root for without even thinking about it. I love it.

Lady Adelaide is exactly how I think a lady should be. Smart, compassionate, strong and passionate. She isn’t afraid to stand up for what she believes is right but she does it in a smart and compassionate way, ensuring the loyalty and love of all those who feel the effects of those traits. Lady Adelaide is everything you would envision a young queen to be.

The pacing in this book is excellent. I had heart pounding moments of running and fighting, heart warming moments of character development and connection, heart skipping moments of new love and attraction and even a couple heart breaking moments of loss. My heart sure got a workout! It was an awesome ride from beginning to end. But wait, it isn’t over! The next book will be coming out at the end of this month and I cannot wait! What a fun series this is. Oh, and don’t even get me started on these gorgeous covers. They are absolutely beautiful, right?

Evermore by Jody Hedlund is the first book in The Lost Princesses series and definitely worth reading if you love fairy tales.
Lady Adelaide has no idea that she is one of the lost princesses to the Mercia throne, but when Christopher Langley comes to protect her he hopes that she will lead the rebellion against King Ethelwulf and take her rightful place on the throne.
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.

Wow I totally loved “Evermore” the first book in the Lost Princesses Series!
I read “Always”, the prequel of this series, and although “Evermore” can be read as a standalone, it helped me to know how the story started, how the “lost princesses” were rescued and taken to safety during King Ethelwulf’s attack to Mercia. He’s been a harsh, and evil ruler, killing everyone who opposes him as a King of Bryttania, the union of Mercia and Warwick (his previous kingdom), and even killing entire families, from elders to children. “Always” is a beautiful and captivating story about the rescuers of the princesses.
In “Evermore” it’s Adelaide’s discovery that she is really Constance, the true heir to Mercia, not the orphan taken by her dearest aunt and uncle, that were more than parents to her. But Aunt Susanna, finally reveals her secret on her deathbed. Not only she is the rightful Queen of Mercia, but she holds the Key, one of three, which are supposed to be in possession of her two sisters, to Solomon’s Treasure, which has been hunted by generations.
When Adelaide discovers her identity, she doesn’t know what to do. Can she leave her dear life at Langley, where she cares and provides for her tenants and people? Mitchell, her cousin, vows to protect her… But then Christopher arrives, her eldest cousin, who is considered a traitor after leaving Langley five years ago to join other forces against King Ethelwulf in Norland.
There’s a strong and sweet bond from the start between Adelaide and Cristopher. And when he learns she’s the Queen and that King Ethelwulf knows her whereabouts, he vows to protect her too, and help her regain her people’s support and other kingdoms help to reclaim the throne.
It’s a journey of life and death. Of hard decisions and Adeline/Constance finally growing up into the woman God made her to be. To discover her mission to rule, sacrifice and work for her people’s well being and safety. To stop the injustice and put an end to Ethelwulf’s evil reign. But is she ready?
There’s also the issue of Cristopher and Mitchell’s devotion to her. She loves them both, they are her only kin yet, but who is the one she loves more than a brother?
This is a beautiful story. The plot is totally engaging, I couldn’t put it down. There’s danger, adventure, intrigue, sweet romance. She has to find her lost sisters so that together they can join forces, find the treasure and fight against Ethelwulf. It’s a dangerous journey for sure. Will she survive it and gain her people’s trust in the way as Christopher predicts?
The best part of the story was the characters. The characters, Adelaide and Christopher, were so deep and compelling, compassionate, kind and humble. Mitchell is a great character too, although he has to fight bitterness against what he thinks is his brother’s treason and abandonment, jealously, etc. But I think every character grows along the way in this story, especially Adelaide.
And I truly fell in love with Christopher, he was humble, and so brave. I don’t want to spoil the story, but I just want to say that I think it’s the best YA series of Jody. I couldn’t put it down, and fell in love with the characters, the story, setting, everything. There’s a deep Christian message behind which is not preachy at all, about trusting God with your decisions and seeking his guidance and letting Him keep the control.
A must read. I vividly recommend it, not only to YA readers, it’s perfect for adults too!
My heart ached for Sister Katherine, I just have to say that. She was truly a hero in this story.
Even though it’s a series, it had a satisfying ending, but it makes you want to know the rest of the story and the other two princesses own story. Don’t miss this, you won’t regret it!
I received an early copy of this book and this is my voluntary and unbiased review.

3.5 stars

“I am Adelaide Constance Dierdal Aurora, the true queen and heir of the house of Mercia.”

No one is more stunned to learn that Adelaide is one of Mercia’s lost princesses, than Adelaide herself. Upon her deathbed, dear Aunt Susanna had barely managed to whisper these parting words, “God has saved your life, Adelaide. And now it is time for you to give it back in service to Him as the ruler you were born to be”.

Immediately Adelaide is thrust into making life changing decisions; find her sisters, locate an ancient treasure and restore her kingdom, but in what order? Her two beloved cousins, Mitchell and Christopher vow to keep her safe, but at what cost? Mercia’s ruthless King Ethelwulf will stop at nothing to destroy her.

Many battles rage through-out this engaging story; battles of conscience, battles between enemies and the more pulsating battles within hearts; which in the end may prove to be the most devastating. What does it mean to be gifted with the wisdom of the Almighty God; it becomes Adelaide’s every prayer.

Adelaide is stunned to learn that she is one of the lost princesses, and the heir to the throne of Mercia. For seventeen years she has lived with Lord Whelan and Lady Susanna of Langley who raised her alongside their two sons, Christopher and Mitchell, in hiding from the evil King Ethelwulf who killed her father, King Francis.

Christopher left his family years ago, tired of seeing the hypocrisy of Ethelwulf’s rule, making a name for himself with the King of Norland. His return coincides with Adelaide’s revelation, and a warning from a family friend that Ethelwulf’s men are on their way for Adelaide.

Will Adelaide be able to reunite with her sisters, unlock Solomon’s treasure, and reclaim her throne, while two noblemen vie for her love?

Adelaide has learned and trained alongside her adopted cousins, gaining knowledge in history, leadership, and even swordsmanship. She is confident and level-headed, with a heart compassionate as she is beautiful.

Christopher is a cool-headed, natural leader, he stays true to his convictions and is very honest. He assumes a strong sense of duty in protecting Adelaide from those who would do her harm.

The first in brand new young adult fairy tale series from Jody Hedlund, featuring strong heroines who must face high stakes in order to regain their kingdom. Thrilling, romantic, engaging, with an admirable heroine who can stand up for herself and do her own fighting, but is also vulnerable and compassionate. This book is much in the style of her Uncertain Choice Series.

Overall, an engaging read written for a more young adult audience, but that can be enjoyed by any age. I’m excited to see how everything comes together throughout the series. Great tension between the brothers, and growing maturity from Adelaide as she comes into her own as Queen of Mercia. Especially good for fans of her previous Medieval series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Okay so I stayed up till way to late o’clock finishing this book. Once you start this read, it is near impossible to put down! I just HAD to know how it ended!! The story was exciting and moved at a very good pace. It has some really sad parts which got to me but the book is super good. I am waiting impatiently for books 2 and 3 in this set….I need them SOON!!!

I received these books from the author and was not required to post positive reviews. All thoughts are my own.

Hidden princesses. Ladies-in-waiting. Romance. Brutal kings. Black wolves. Big, bad wolves. And castles.

These are the things I’ve been surrounded by for the last two days as I read Evermore, Book 1 in Jody Hedlund’s new series, The Lost Princesses.

Previously, three orphaned princesses have been hidden, each in a different home and place, so that the conquering and brutal King Ethelwulf. It has been quite some time since the brutal king took over the kingdom; his methods are cruel and persistent. He will do whatever he needs to find the princesses, preventing them from their rightful place on the throne, and the huge ancient treasure hidden away for the care of the kingdom when the time has come.

Adelaide has been raised in a noble home. Although she always knew she was orphaned, she felt very much a part of the family. Christopher and Mitchell were her “cousins”, their parents her aunt and uncle. So good were they at hiding Adelaide’s true identity even she had not an inkling. When a haggard and beaten old woman arrives at the estate one evening, Adelaide learns who she truly is and what it is she must do. With no time to ponder over the visitor’s astounding announcement, Adelaide must flee immediately as the appearance of the haggard old woman also meant King Ethelwulf’s mighty forces were on her trail. The king knew she would lead him straight to the princesses one day, he just needed to bide his time.

Cousin Mitchell and Big John become Adelaide’s protectors as they flee the estate, heading through the wilderness and forests to complete Adelaide’s mission which first and foremost is finding her hidden sisters. She must find them before the king and his men for a kingdom, it’s peoples and an ancient treasure are at great risk. When cousin Christopher joins the mission, Adelaide seems to focus on him rather than Mitchell who has stood steadily by her side as she grew up. Mitchell does not take this well and his actions could put everything at risk.

Had I not been required to return to real life by family and work, I would have spent an entire day within this intriguing medieval story. So entranced by it, Adelaide remained in the back of my mind as I went about real life. I highly recommend Evermore.

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.

PS I also purchased the book so I could have it to read again and again!

Evermore, continues the story that began in Always but twenty years have passed. We read about Adelaide, the lost princess of Mercia. She has been living with her aunt and uncle since she was four. She has grown up not knowing about her past, only knowing that the man and woman she calls aunt and uncle are protecting her. Adelaide studies with her cousins, but along with the usual lessons about running an estate, she also learns how to fight and compete.
Adelaide is different then most ladies and she is okay with it. All she wants to do is protect those under her care and help those in need. She sees the needs of others and strives to help them as best as she can. Despite being kind and thoughtful, she has learned to trust in her own abilities. She believes she can do most things just because she has been taught well and things have been going her way.
But one day, Adelaide is abruptly told the truth about her heritage. She finds out that she is the lost heir to the throne. She will now have to learn how to fight and hide from King Elthelwulf who invaded Mercia years ago. But she will not have to do it alone, Adelaide has her faithful friends, the boys who were her “cousins”, Mitchel and Christopher. Adelaide knows that they will defend her and help her no matter what. Adelaide learns that she cannot win this war on her own, but she has many people who are willing to stand beside her and lend her a hand.
Adelaide was a wonderful character. She was a strong woman in a time period where many women were considered with little to no regard. She learned to be set apart among the people, but most of all, I loved her kindness and compassion. She was not willing to let those in need go away empty-handed. It was also amazing how she was given wisdom. Though she was not perfect, Adelaide prayed for wisdom in times of need, and it was granted to her; wisdom on how to answer difficult questions and how to respond rightly to others.
All Christopher wants is to regain the kingdom of Mercia from King Ethelwulf. He defied his parents and ran away from home so that he would not have to serve King Ethelwulf. Christopher was such a good character as well; he was complex. He was wrong about so many things, but he came to understand and learn from his mistakes. I loved Chrisopther because he learned from his mistakes and tried to be better because of them.
As Adelaide and her companions run from King Ethelwulf’s men, Adelaide and Christopher start to see their love for each other. But Adelaide does not believe that Christopher loves her and Christopher does not believe that he is good enough for her, especially since she is the true queen. Luckily for them, God is the one in control. God allows circumstances during this time where they begin to see their need for God and for one another.
One quote that I really liked was when Adelaide said, “I will pray for strength to do whatever God requires of me.” This reminds me that we all have a mission and a purpose. We need to strive to follow God and serve Him in whatever way He calls us to. Although we need to receive what God has for us, we also need to know that we cannot do it alone and that we need His power and strength.
This was a fantastic book and I highly recommend it, for teens ages 13 and up. It was a book that kept me hanging on with every word as I followed Adelaide and Christoper through this trial and journey. I cannot wait for the next books to come out and see what will happen next.

I received a free copy from the editor, this review is my own. I was not obligated to write a good review.