Revew: A Worthy Rebel

A Worthy Rebel is Jody Hedlund's fifth title in her medieval young adult series, An Uncertain Choice. As with her previous books in the series, it moved from beginning to end. The series has ties to her previous books, An Uncertain Choice, A Daring Sacrifice, For Love and Honor, and A Loyal Heart but it can also be read by itself without previously reading the series. (I would recommend reading the previous titles, because they are great!)

A Worthy Rebel features Isabelle, the sister of Olivia from A Loyal Heart. Isabelle is sent to a neighboring castle to wed. After receiving a horrifying gift from her betrothed, she runs to find a better life.

As with the previous tales in the series, the point of view switches between two characters. In earlier printings, the font was different, In this current Kindle version, it was not the font, but the chapter "flourishes" or "decor" that gives the reader a clue as to who is "I".
Since this was her fifth novel in the series, I looked forward to reading the two points of view and learning about their backgrounds, thoughts, and beliefs.

This is the final book in the series and I bid these characters and families a fond farewell. I loved this series from book one and I will miss their world. I'm glad that I can always return to this time and place by reading these stories again. I look forward to the next book (or new series) by Hedlund. It's always an adventure with heart!

Reviewed from a gift copy.

If you'd like to connect with Jody Hedlund, here's a few places you can connect with her:

Facebook : Author Jody Hedlund
Twitter : @JodyHedlund
Website : jodyhedlund.com
Pinterest : pinterest.com/jodyhedlund
Instagram: @JodyHedlund

Title: A Worthy Rebel
Author: Jody Hedlund
Series: Book 05, An Uncertain Choice
ASIN: B07FZ6KBNW

Review: A Loyal Heart

A Loyal Heart is Jody Hedlund's four title in her medieval series, An Uncertain Choice. As with her previous stories, it was full of action from beginning to end. The series has ties to her previous books, An Uncertain Choice, A Daring Sacrifice, and For Love and Honor, but it can also be read by itself without previously reading the series. (I would recommend reading the previous titles, because they are so good!)

Her newest YA novel features Aldric, the brother of Sir Bennett from A Loyal Heart. He has been working to rebuild his life after the loss of his wife. He is under the command of Lord Pitt, who sends him to besiege Lady Olivia's castle. Olivia's father and Lord Pitt are enemies, but it goes further than that with a battle of beliefs and loyalty to family, kingdom, and the Lord.

Hedlund captured my attention from chapter one. It was hard to set A Loyal Heart down. I wanted to read it in one sitting! I did forget that this series rotates point of view between characters - one chapter is Aldric's and another chapter is Olivia's. I'm glad Hedlund kept the format she began with book one, An Uncertain Choice. It was an excellent read. I can't wait for her next book. I'm not sure if another story will be added to An Uncertain Choice series, but she has written other amazing stories. I would highly recommend diving into another series, if you haven't picked one up yet!

Reviewed from a review copy.

If you'd like to connect with Jody Hedlund, here's a few places you can connect with her:

Facebook : Author Jody Hedlund
Twitter : @JodyHedlund
Website : jodyhedlund.com
Pinterest : pinterest.com/jodyhedlund
Instagram: @JodyHedlund

Title: A Loyal Heart
Author: Jody Hedlund
Series: Book 04, An Uncertain Choice
ASIN: B0797F1YZC

Review: For Love and Honor

For Love and Honor is Jody Hedlund's third title in her medieval series, An Uncertain Choice. As with the previous titles, it is action packed from beginning to end. The series is linked together with the previous two titles, An Uncertain Choice and A Daring Sacrifice, but it can be read as a standalone story.


This story focuses on the handsome (and rejected) Sir Bennet. He returns home to take over his brother's land because he cannot manage the family property. Bennet's brother, Aldric, has sunk the family into debt and the neighbors are not pleased. Bennet is taking charge and needs to save the his family's land, priceless antiques, and their lives. Enter Sabine who wants to purchase some priceless treasures, but her Grandmother has matchmaking on her mind.

Hedlund crafts such a great medieval story. This time period in history isn't my top genre, but her writing is so enjoyable! I savored Sabine's independence and uniqueness. I loved Bennet's caring and determination (until it moved to stubbornness). Even though the characters lived years in the past, similar questions and feelings can be felt by readers today. Sabine's uncertainties were very understandable. The struggle for acceptance is one so many of us face.

The story is, again, shared between two voices - Bennet and Sabine. The fonts change so the reader can distinguish who is sharing their story. The story wraps up in this novel, but I would like to hear more about Aldric. He began his recovery journey, but I would like to hear more... When you read an enjoyable story, one book is never enough!

Time Period: Medieval, 1391
Location: Maidstone Castle, Hampton

Reviewed from a review copy. Thank you, Zondervan and Jody Hedlund!

Review: A Daring Sacrifice

What an outstanding opening line, "Time to chop off your thumbs."! It definitely caught my attention and pulled me into the medieval world. Jody Hedlund's second medieval teen novel, A Daring Sacrifice, was action packed from beginning to end.

A Daring Sacrifice follows An Uncertain Choice which came out in 2015. The books are linked together by the knights who grew up in the household of the Duke of Rivenshire, the Noblest Knight. Eack book can be read on its own which I really enjoyed. It was nice to have a little background from the previous title, but feel free to leap in and read!

Juliana is on the run from her uncle who is hunting her and wants to put an end to her just like he disposed of her father. She wants to live and protect the people who saved her and continue to guard her life. She's become a bandit to help support her people who live secretly in the forest. When she steals from Collin Goodrich, she is unmasked! Collin is curious about this female bandit that goes around wearing tattered male garments. Since leaving the last challenge from the Noblest Knight and his friends, he is up to the test of keeping track of Juliana and coming to her rescue.

Jody Hedlund has crafted together some very heartfelt ideas. It is questions of changing yourself, who you are, who you pretend to be, and what is a sacrifice. Anyone who is growing up asks these questions and since we all continue to grow, sometimes these questions are before us time and time again. The book focuses on sacrifices and some of them were stunning to read and reflect on. (I'm not giving any away, so there are no spoilers!) Every one sacrifices something, and Collin shared a revelation well, "My chest swelled with strange satisfaction." It's about putting others before you and caring for someone's needs before your own. It's beautiful to witness love and caring in action.

The story is shared between two voices - Juliana and Collin. The fonts change so it is easy to distinguish who is leading the story. The story wraps up in this novel, but Hedlund does share an epilogue that shares a new storyline. Come soon, book three! I cannot wait to read it!

Time Period: Medieval, 1390
Location: Forests of Wessex and Goodrich Castle

Reviewed from an advanced reader copy. Thank you, Zondervan and Jody Hedlund!

Title: A Daring Sacrifice
Author: Jody Hedlund
Series: Book 02, An Uncertain Choice
ISBN: 9780310749370

January YA Reads

I'm mad for Madly, speechless for Soundless, and leery of A Thousand Nights.

Madly by Amy Alward is the first book of in the new series, Potion. It was a mix between modern living and fairy tale themes. A magic potion goes horribly wrong and the kingdom announces a hunt for the cure. It's a race against time and ingredients. Will synthetics work or are all natural items only work? Can hunters work together or will their tear each other apart?

What a great adventure! The mix of old and new was fascinating. The alchemist details of different ingredients all over the text were delightful to uncover. Friendship and family ties are tested. I cannot wait for the next book in the series!

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Soundless by Michelle Mead is a standalone novel. An entire village is deaf. They communicate by sign language and painted news. Years have passed by and now the people are slowly loosing their sight as well. Something needs to change or everyone will be lost. Unexpectedly, Fei begins to hear. With a new sense, she can save her town!

I thought this story was fascinating. I loved the descriptions of sound. It's something I've never thought about describing sounds beyond the sound my car is making or the occasional "did you hear that?" I also liked the quickness of the book. It's a shorter story than the usual YA novel and it's was refreshing to read something in a couple hours.

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A Thousand Nights by E. K. Johnston is a new twist on the title of an old tale A Thousand and One Nights. The king continues to seek a wife because he's killed 300 of them. There is something inside of him that has taken over. A sister takes a stand when the king comes to her village. She wants to save her sister from such a terrible and brief life.

This was an okay story for me. The thing living inside the king is a demon that tortures him and feeds off his people and his past wives. There is an energy from his new wife that battles him and gives strength to his people. It's a battle of good over evil, smallgods and demons. 

Review: An Uncertain Choice

An Uncertain Choice by Jody Hedlund

Lady Rosemarie's life is about to be in an uproar. She witnesses cruelty, which she has forbidden in her kingdom. Rosemarie desires to end all torture and she must stand up for her beliefs. She is also set to enter the convent, when her godfather, the Noblest Knight, Duke of Rivenshire, appears at her castle with startling news. The Vow can be removed if she finds love and is married before her eighteen birthday. There is one month to set the standard of care for her people, find a possibility of a match between the three knights her godfather brought, and prepare her future for marriage or life in the convent.

Our lives are surrounded by choices - what to eat, what to wear, where to go, what to do, what to believe, how to make a stand, whom to befriend. Those all can seem difficult and easy at different times in our lives. When other people come into our decision making it can either muddy the water or make them clearer. It is such a blessing to be able to come to the Lord in prayer. As Lady Rose stated upon coming to a fork in the road, “The decision was too important to make lightly without more prayer.”

Many of our choices in life come from an inner struggle. Not everyone can see what's going on in our hearts or minds. The Lord sees and understands. He hears us. He knows our desires. “For it is often the hardest tasks that build the most character.” It's so important to let your inner beauty shine. Rosemarie wants to be close to her people and show that she cared for them. In finding a match, it was important to find a love that shared her love for serving others. “Marriage doesn't put an end to one's ability to serve God and bring him glory. In fact, I've seen many married couples who have done more for God together than was possible as individuals.”

Jody Hedlund's first YA novel was a capturing read. She shared the importance of inner beauty that loves and cares for others around us as well as taking a stand for what you believe. Rose fought for no torture, which was a common practice in her time. It was important for her to bring peace and care to the people in her land. It was also fun to be wooed through the pages Lady Rosemarie story. Who doesn't love jewelry and compliments and chivalry? Hedlund also showed the struggle in Rosemarie's heart as well as one of her suitors. (Different fonts indicated the change of narration in her novel.)

Rosemarie's story wraps up in this novel, but if you're looking for further reading in this series check out the pre-novella, The Vow. A sequel will be coming out that follows An Uncertain Choice. I'm looking forward to it!

Time Period: Medieval, 1390
Location: Montfort Castle, Ashby

Reviewed from a complimentary copy. Thank you, Jody Hedlund and Zondervan!

Title: An Uncertain Choice
Series: Book 01, An Uncertain Choice
Publisher: Zondervan
ISBN: 9780310749196

Review: Tear You Apart

Tear You Apart by Sarah Cross


Tear You Apart is a companion to Kill Me Softly by Sarah Cross. This novel can be read separately from Cross' first piece, but I would recommend reading Kill Me Softly before Tear You Apart. Characters from the first book reappear in the second as well as small pieces of the earlier storyline. Readers, you will have time to enjoy Kill Me Softly, because Tear You Apart will be published in January 2015.

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Cross is so clever with her reinvented fairy tales. When I saw that a new title was coming out, I immediately went to the library to checkout Kill Me Softly in preparation for reading Tear You Apart. (It’s worth a reread for this new title.)

Sarah Cross returned to Beau Rivage to share another couple's story. Again, I became captivated by the fairy tales that intertwined throughout the story. Since fairy tales stories are well known, I could see where some of the storylines lead, but she always managed to change it just a little to take my breath away. I don't want to reveal too much of the twists, but I will share what Cross shared on her website: "Snow White plus the Twelve Dancing Princesses ... and some other fairy tales I'll keep secret for now."

I would recommend this title to teens or adults. Fairy tales are popular for the tweens, but the content is for a mature audience. The characters swear, drink, and deal with murders. Some younger readers are not prepared for that type of content yet.

Just like the companion piece, the story is wrapped up at the end and can standalone. I still wonder about the other characters who came alive in this novel. I think Cross would have a fantastic Beau Rivage series if she shared the fates of her other fairytale characters. I anxiously await more stories!

Reviewed from a NetGalley copy. Thank you, Egmont USA!

ISBN: 9781606845912
eBook ISBN: 9781606845929
Published: January 27, 2015

Review: Feather Bound

Feather Bound by Sarah Raughley


Are you familiar with the classic fairytale Swan Maidens? If not, I would recommend reading the short story before (or after) reading Feather Bound. Author Sarah Raughley gives the classic story a new modern twist.

I liked that Raughley weaved swans into the history of the book. Swan information is available in classes, on the internet, and printed in brochures. That was interesting and edgy. She also kept the story very modern with the language and references to pop culture and trends.

I prefer my fractured fairytales less edgy. The language was genuine for the characters and settings, but I would rather not read books with foul language and "totes." I was taken aback by "totes." I appreciate the dynamic reading of "totes" from the Sprint commercial, but beyond that I would prefer not to read it in books.



Sections of the Swan Maidens story was included but it felt a little out of place. I'm not sure it was needed. Or maybe it just needed different formatting. I would have liked to see story selections or quotes as chapter headings rather than having them as mini "chapters" throughout the book.

Some of the themes in the book include abuse, human trafficking, understanding yourself, and justice. Evil is overcome in the end and life can slowly be rebuilt. The story wraps up well and can standalone. I give this book two swans out of five. If you're interested in modern fairytales, I would recommend reading some Alix Flinn books.

Reviewed from a NetGalley copy. Thank you, Angry Robot Ltd!

Review: Total Devotion

Total Devotion: 365 Days to Hang Tight with Jesus by Kevin Johnson


Total Devotion is geared toward young adults and their faith struggles and growth. I may not be in high school, but the passages chosen and the lessons shared are applicable to Christians whatever their age. The book was originally published in 2004, so there are a couple technical advances, but some life lessons never change throughout history. Replace the VCR with a DVD or Blu-ray player as you read and focus on connecting the passage to your daily life.

Daily devotions include a title, opening paragraph describing a situation, passage, and closing remarks that include Bible references to link the situation(s) to the text read. The year is broken down into several topics including faith basics, obedience, prayer, trust, popularity, family, guy-girl stuff, stamina and more for a total of 26 different themes.

Reviewed from a personal copy.

Review Secret Letters

Secret Letters by Leah Scheier
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Welcome to the Victorian age of England, the time of Sherlock Holmes, long dresses, and the hope of answers. Unfortunately, our lead character's dream of finding her father, solving her cousin's love letter problems and becoming a detective are slowly moving out of her hands. Luckily, she meets a young detective and they join forces to find some answers even if they cannot connect with her father.

I prefer historical fiction to modern time novels, so this book was a treasure to find. It read similar to Y. S. Lee's historical fiction pieces that I greatly enjoyed. If you enjoyed The Agency series by Y.S. Lee, this novel will also hold you in its grip as well. If you haven't read The Agency, this is an excellent start to historical mystery with a strong female lead. I am greatly looking forward to future stories about Dora by Leah Scheier.

Reviewed from a NetGalley copy. Thank you, Disney Book Group!

Review: What I Didn't Say

What I Didn't Say by Keary Taylor


One stupid night can change your life.

Everyone was partying and Jake wanted to tell his crush that he loves her. His friends record his drunken words then pile into a car to go to Samantha Shay's house. Under the influence, they never made it. Jake awakens in the hospital with no voice and big regrets.

Jake's vocal chords are gone. He will never speak again. His mother gives him notebooks to communicate. Jake uses them and tries to learn American Sign Language. A surprise is the new class schedule that will give Jake more time with his crush Samantha Shay.

I was impressed by the overall clean read. (Clean is relative to each reader, of course.) Some of the situations could be a bit over the top but it was amazingly believable. The teens were regular teens who play football, follow rules, break rules, plan for prom, go to class, etc.

Jake's growth was very interesting to follow. His life took a 180 turn and he records his time by the big events in his life. First it's all about the future, then it's about recovering from the accident, then it shifts to Samantha as they become closer and closer.

Reviewed from a NetGalley copy. Thank you, Keary Taylor!

Review: Kill My Softly

Kill Me Softly by Sarah Cross

I always look forward to reading a new fairytale story. I knew Kill My Softly was rewritten tales and the font captured my interest. The bloody rose did not inspire me to read the book. If you're put off by the cover, open the book and start reading!

Sarah Cross weaves together several fairytales, both well-known and obscure. Those who live the life of a fairytale character are marked with a sign. Nothing happens until they turn sixteen. On their sixteenth birthday, their tales begin to take shape in their lives.

Cross focuses on only a few of the characters who live in Beau Rivage. The main character is Mirabelle who is discovering the history and stories in Beau Rivage. I was familiar with the stories Cross chose, but she also kept me on my reading toes. The reveal at the end was breathtaking.

So far, Kill My Softly is a standalone piece. Mirabelle's story (for the most part) is concluded. I still wonder about the other characters who came alive in this novel. I think Cross would have a fantastic Beau Rivage series if she shared the fates of her other fairytale characters. I anxiously await more stories!

Reviewed from a library copy.

Review: Snow in Summer

Snow in Summer: The Tale of an American Snow White by Jane Yolen


It's the well-known tale of Snow White set in America's Appalachia. Yolen takes readers on an adventure in West Virginia where folks make a living by hunting and gardening. She shares the story of the Lem Morton family who reside in deep mourning. The daughter, Snow in Summer, wants to be free and return to the time where Papa interacted with who love him. All too soon, a beguiling woman enters the scene and becomes Stepmama. Papa falls under Stepmama's spell and Summer turns to Snow. Summer's life of work becomes a life of servitude. She needs to run before someone dies.

I love a retold fairytale. I selected this book because of that fact and didn't bother to read the description. I was taken aback to read the author's note about her sources about snake-handling sects. Just like in Yolen's Snow White, I am not a fan of snakes. I couldn't see where the story would lead with a setting around the Depression era in Appalachia including a section on snake faith. It was quite a journey following Snow in Summer. Yolen's title of "the Hans Christian Andersen of America" is appreciated. She weaves in the love of fairy tales (along with the beloved Anne of Green Gables) within her book. The time period and location are unique and will be enjoyed by readers. The set-up of the story takes about 3/4 of the book while the classic storyline will be recognized toward the final 1/4 of the novel.

Time Period: Early 20th Century
Location: West Virginia, USA

Reviewed from a library copy.

Review: The Betrayal of Maggie Blair

The Betrayal of Maggie Blair by Elizabeth Laird

Maggie Blair is accused of witchcraft. Being targeted as a witch means one thing - death. Maggie's on the run for her life. Her safe haven is her unseen father's brother - Blair. She journeys forth to find a new home away from home. But is her new haven safe? Her Uncle's family is defying the king, the soldiers are flooding the hills and old acquaintances arrive to mingle with her new family and friends.


The cover art is wonderfully haunting with a young woman's silhouette against the hills and water. It evokes the characters belief of standing alone. Maggie's life moves from stable to hectic when life dishes blow after blow. The feeling of hope and despair intermingle as Maggie struggles to find her place in life. I enjoyed the travel across historic Scotland as Maggie traveled from one side to the other and back again. Her questions about faith are appropriate and understandable. I was disappointed at the ending, but it's a fine read if you're interested in history, witch-hunts and battles of faith.


Time Period: Seventeenth-Century

Location: Scotland

Reviewed from a library copy.

Review: To Catch a Pirate

To Catch a Pirate by Jade Parker

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


The Townsend's, Annalisa and her father, are sailing to the governorship of Mourning in the Caribbean. The Phantom Mist intercepts their course and in dashes the unforgettable pirate James Sterling. James and his mentor Crimson steal the king's gold. Mr. Townsend is sent to prison and Annalisa takes up the call to be a privateer and hunt down the man you ruined her world - James Sterling.


If you're in the mood for a summer read, here is a book for you. Parker takes you to a world full of sailing on warm breezes, dangerous swordplay, treasure hunts and revenge. Excellent heroine novel with a touch of romance and sassiness. If Ms. Parker were to write more historical fiction, I would love to read them!

Reviewed from a library copy.

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Review: Timeless & An Unlikely Suitor

Timeless by Alexandra Monir

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Story...  Michele Windsor is forced to live with her New York City grandparents after tragedy strikes her small family. While she resides in her family's historical house, she uncovers her family history and their secrets. Yet, it goes beyond journal entries and faded photographs...she travels through Time and meets her ancestors and the man of her dreams.




An Unlikely Suitor by Nancy Moser

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Story...  The Scarpelli family is undergoing changes: a sudden death, an eviction and new jobs. Lucy is looking out for her mother and younger sister. In her new job as a New York dressmaker, she befriends Roaring 20's socialite Rowena Langdon. After meeting Rowena, her life takes a new path as she is asked to visit the vacation hot-spot: Newport.


Where can I go from your Spirit?

Where can I flee from your presence?

If I go up to the heavens, you are there;

if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.

If I rise on the wings of dawn,

if I settle on the far side of the sea,

even there your hand will guide me,

your right hand will hold me fast.

~ Psalm 139:7-10


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I read these stories one right after the other. The reason? They were both due at the library on the same day. In all honesty, I didn't know the premisis of either story. It was a very pleasant surprise that such different books linked so well together. I began reading Nancy Moser's An Unlikely Suitor. I followed up Moser's book with Timeless by Alexander Monir. Each book discusses the 1920's from different viewpoints. Moser tackles life as an immigrant seamstress and New York society. Monir continues with New York society, but adds a time travel twist. Both stories were very enjoyable. I was pleasantly surprised to find detailed historical notes at the end of each book. Historical accuracy and explanations are greatly appreciated. I look forward to more novels by Moser and Monir.

Reviewed from library copies.


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Review: Dark Mirror

Dark Mirror by M.J. Putney

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars


M.J. Putney weaves a very compelling story about magic in 1800's England. Lady Victoria Mansfield, called Tory, discovers the curse of being a mageling in the world of England's aristocracy. The lower classes welcome magic, but families of higher rank look down upon any family member with a hint of magic. Children are sent to Lackland Abbey to be cured of her magic abilities. Yet, Tory discovers a whole new world at Lackland. She meets Elspeth, who loves magic and the young Marquis of Allarde who remains standoffish to everyone. Their journeys combine as they unite to save England from war.


I cannot wait to read the next installment in the Dark Passage series. (It is due out this fall.) Regency period is one of my favorite genres to read and adding magic to this piece was fantastic. M.J.'s author's note is a perfect final touch to this historical novel. She explains a true historic event she wove into the story. Her addition was wonderful with this note in particular, "People ask where I get my story ideas. Believe me, history offers lots of great stories!" Too true. Thank you for sharing an interesting piece of British history.


Reviewed from a Library Copy.

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