I was excited for Shielded the second I had read the blurb. Magic, wars, betrothals, and a royalty? Definitely a book that's up my alley. While Shielded. wasn't exactly what I expected it would be, I loved it nonetheless.

The world building in this novel is incredible. Three kingdoms reside on a rocky island/continent know as the Plateau. Each kingdom has unique characteristics, customs, and properties that have allowed for a generally peaceful coexistence. However, when a danger from the Ice Desserts threatens the kingdom of Hálendi, Princess Jennesara is sent to marry the prince of Turia in order to secure more troops. Throughout the novel we receive an in-depth experience of the kingdoms of Hálendi and Turia, as well as the magic forest known as the Wild.

The characters are all wonderfully well-rounded. There are a lot of characters in this book, and most of the named ones need to be remembered. However, the author has succeed in creating such individualized personalities that you rarely have to look back to refresh your memory. I found Jen to be a compelling protagonist. While she embodies the secret princess trope, Jen still has her own unique personality. She's fiercely protective and incredibly intelligent, but still capable of making mistakes. In fact, it's all the character's inherently human flaws that make them realistic and likable. besides his charmingly crooked teeth, Prince Enzo is loyal and empathetic almost to a fault. Ren is charming and loving, but secretive. Chiara is friendly but lonely, and Mari, well, Mari is perfect, but she is a child (and gets into child-like trouble). There is some diversity within the characters, but I wish there was at least a bit more.

The plot itself is compelling, and I found myself not wanting to put the book down. I loved the magic system, where magic itself is kind of murky subject. As a reader, we know as much about magic as Jena does (for the most part), which is mostly theoretical, and not at all practical. Magic just kind of is and it's unique for each person. The plot points I thought would turn out bad often when fine, and twists occurred where I least expected them. This is clearly the first book in a series, and as such the author explains just enough to leave you wanting more.

There are three different perspectives within the novel. Most of the book is written in first person pov from Jen's perspective. I found these parts the most enjoyable and easiest to understand. Small interludes throughout the book take place in third person pov, focusing on a couple of different characters. These sections were incredibly confusing in the beginning, but by the end of the book I could easily identify whose perspective we were viewing. The writing is overall good, but was occasionally repetitive. At times I found myself looking for a nicer overall flow, but as this is the author's debut novel, I imagine that will improve over the rest of the series. There is a good amount of info dumping at the beginning of the book. Nothing near the level of any high fantasy novel, but enough that I occasionally had to reread sections. By the end of the book, I was glad I had been given most of the basic information upfront. I'm hopeful the published edition will include a map, and maybe a list of what each kingdom is known for.

Overall I really enjoyed the book, and will certainly be picking it up when it's released. It's definitely one I recommend.

Shielded is a welcome addition to the run-of-the-mill fantasy novels as of late: a heroic female protagonist, a dashing prince, a touch of magic.

After a bit of a slow start, Jenna’s story unfolds into a dangerous and heartwarming adventure of a princess willing to do anything to save her kingdom.

I particularly loved Jennesara as a protagonist. Her strengths and weaknesses balance her out into a capable yet still flawed character that readers can connect to.

The various family dynamics, particularly the strong sibling bonds, were a highlight of this book. I adored how much emphasis was places on the mental and physical bonds between the royal families, and each person's connections to one another played out beautifully.

I was reluctant to read a romance based around an arranged marriage, but my expectations were completely blown out of the water. The love story is heartwarming and adorable in all the right ways.

Overall, Shielded is a strong debut novel and one that fans of many popular YA fantasies will enjoy.

3.5

Thank you to Netgalley, Random House Children's and Delacorte Press for sending me an eARC! All opinions in this review are my own.

This was one of the first fantasy books I've read in a while (that weren't rereads) and I thoroughly enjoyed it! The magic and idea of the fantasy world this book takes place in was intriguing, though I must admit, I was confused a lot. Especially in the beginning, I couldn't wrap my head around some parts, but nearing half way through I was able to understand the majority of everything (its a complicated world...) The book reminded me a lot of Throne of Glass and even the ACOTAR series.

It was a cute, sorta predictable (I had my of suspicions about the inside "mole" from pretty much the minute they were introduced) and similar to many fantasy books I've read prior. But this was a solid work of writing nonetheless!

I liked the characters and especially how Jennesara really had the attributes of a heroine (I love reading fight scenes in fantasy books!) I liked the other characters enough, though I would've liked to know Enzo/Luc's characters more and especially their dynamic together. Also, (view spoiler)

The whole story felt very fast paced, it was like a race, like one thing after another it was sorta chaotic. The beginning went a little slow, and the first part of the book took me a while to get through, but after that it was hard to put down! It was definitely insta-lovey, which doesn't bug me too much most of the time and I sorta liked it, although I would've liked a slow-burn better...

Overall, it was a great and enjoyable debut novel by KayLynn Flanders and I will most likely pick up the sequel and her future books!

This is a spoiler-free review! There’s lots of secrets in this novel, so I’m sorry if I’m vague, but I want everyone to have the same reading experience I did, where everything is a surprise. Feel free to email or DM if you want to chat in-depth!

Three days later, I’m STILL thinking about Shielded! My heart was in my throat for the last 25%, and I can’t urge you strongly enough to go read this book. Featuring magic, kingdoms, and all of the things that make my fantasy-loving heart tick. Shielded is pretty straightforward as a fantasy—it’s not exactly morally grey, but I tore through it in just a few days.

Jenna’s relationship with her family was one of my favorite parts. I could definitely feel her love for her brother and father, and this also raised some interesting plot points. On her own, Jenna is brave and heroic as expected, even though she’s struggling with a secret at times. She grows into herself over the course of the novel, which I loved to see. She was incredibly bold and strong at the end in a way I don’t think she’d have become without the events beforehand. We LOVE to see character progression! We LOVE understanding a character’s motivation and what makes them tick!

Furthermore, we love an interesting plot line! Shielded is full of running and chasing, and you’re never *quite* sure when everyone will be safe and who Jenna can trust, but that’s what makes it fun. The beginning starts out a bit slow, but it picks up soon after that and then it’s unputdownable. One of the reasons for this is a cute new romance that everyone will fall for. There’s a little bit of pining, but mostly just cuteness! Lots of mutual life-saving as well, which is always fun.

The only thing I was confused about was the motives of the villain. I wish that character had been fleshed out a bit more instead of dropped in at the end of the story. I’m hoping some of my questions can be answered in book 2, which is forthcoming! I honestly don’t know how I can wait over a year to find out what happens next in Hálendi.

Overall, 5 stars for action and excitement! Shielded will definitely shock you out of a reading slump.

This is one of those rare, fun-loving, heart-breaking, terrifically plotted books that suck you right in from page one. Jenna is a top-notch heroine; brave, level-headed, and strong. And don't me started on the cover. I can't wait to hold the finished copy in my hands and take lots of bookstgram pics with it because that is what I do with pretty books. I love them and squeeze them and make sure the world knows about them.

Jennesara, who is our protagonist, has a head on her shoulders. She loves to sword-fight, but her father, the king, frowns upon it. When he marries her off to a neighboring kingdom, she swallows her stubbornness and obeys, if only for the good of her kingdom. She's brave in more ways than one in that she puts her kingdom before her own well-being. But when it is time to fight for her own life, she does so without hesitation. She's tough in a way that is self-taught and not overly done. She's not a warrior. She's just a princess with a secret passion for weapons.

I won't spill too many details but let's talk about the romance. When the romantic interest was finally revealed, I was totally knocked off my seat. That twist though! I actually thought one character would be the love interest, but the author took it a different direction. When the feels began, it was OH SO SWEET! I want to just hug them both until they beg for mercy. MY LITTLE CINNAMON ROLLS!!!!

KayLynn Flanders has a unique way with words. While she does not go overly flowery, her writing flows well and sucks you in.

So, my four-star rating is because of the pacing. I found myself without breath at some points, with no real room to take it all in. I understand this is a fast-paced book and there's A LOT going on. I only felt it was smushed together too tightly.

While the themes and the basic structure of the book are the same as a million others, there's something different about this one that I can't pinpoint. Mostly, I think it's because it reminds me of an early book I once wrote about a defiant princess with secret magic and a handsome boy who fight together against the baddies who want them dead.

Maybe I should dig that story out and revamp it. KayLynn, you have inspired me!

But other than that, SHIELDED is an addicting book that YA fantasy fans with devour.

Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher for the e-arc.

I received an e-ARC of this book from KayLynn Flanders, and Random House Children’s Publishers through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Fantastic debut novel from KayLynn Flanders! I thoroughly enjoyed the journey that Jenna took throughout this book. An accomplished swordsman with the strength and speed to take down most opponents; I liked that Jenna was able to find her inner strength during her struggle to save her kingdom. I cannot wait to read book #2 to find out what happens next.

I could not get past the second chapter, which is disappointing because it had so much potential, A Female lead, magic, mystery, and family. However, the writing was just so bad, I was so confused about what was happening, she was waking up. How can you make getting out of bed that complicated and convoluted? I tried to keep going but after running into the same wording and run-on sentences, I just had to stop.

A strong, female protagonist is always something I love to see in fiction. Jenna is smart and a fierce warrior dedicated to protecting everything she holds dear. I love this book.

Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for providing a free copy for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book was stunning! I haven't been this immersed in a book in a long time! It was intriguing, the magic system was complex and creative, and you couldn't help root for the main characters! If you liked Uprooted by Naomi Novak, you'll probably like this! I am genuinely surprised by how amazing this was, especially as a debut novel! I hadn't heard anything about this book before requesting it on netgalley and I was not disappointed! I am intrigued to find out what happens next! Can't wait for the next book!

Shielded was a refreshing new read. It’s perfect for fans of “Throne of Glass” if you’re looking to pick up a new YA fantasy series dealing with magic, arranged marriages, kingdoms with secrets, and more. Jenna will remind you of Celaena Sardothien in so many ways such as her persistence, her strength and her fire, and most importantly, her need to save the world. This book is worth reading and I cannot wait for the sequel.

*I received an e-arc from the author and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
4.5/5 Stars
I truly enjoyed this story and thought it was a great debut! It hooked me in right from the beginning.  I thought there was great world building, action, betrayal, epic battle scenes, a unique magical system, romance, and some amazing characters, including some villains of course.

I especially love the main character, Princess Jennesara. She is one of my new favorites! She's a very likable heroine. She's not a princess in jeopardy or someone with an overly troubled past, she's just a girl that's doing her duty for her kingdom. Her father tells her she must marry the Prince of Turia for the good of the kingdom, and she obeys. I thought that spoke volumes of her character, that she was willing to sacrifice her desires for the security of her kingdom. She leaves the innocence of her childhood behind, to face her fears and the unknown. I enjoyed the journey and watching her come into her own.

I think the only part of the story that I found a little confusing were some of the sections about the villains, especially toward the end of the book. Some of the scenes seemed a little rushed. I'm hoping that we learn more about these villains and what exactly makes them tick in the next book. Is it only power and revenge fueling them, or is there more to it?

A great start to a series! I laughed, I cried, and I cheered along as I read this book. I felt that the ending was satisfying and I can't wait to see what happens to Jenna and company in the sequel.

Right off the bat, this is a very innocent book. When I say that, I don't mean about sex specifically, although, being a YA book written by a first-time Mormon author, nothing beyond one "deep kiss" at the end of the novel occurs, but in the sense that this is a book written by an author who clearly lacks the life experience necessary to write a compelling piece of fiction. That sounds harsh, so let me put it simply: this is a book that knows that something called "pain" exists, but not one that has ever felt it itself. And I do mean the book - I wouldn't presume to know about the author's experiences

No character in this book suffers, or fails, or makes mistakes. If our protagonist needs to find someone, she magically finds him on the next page. If characters need materials, they locate them immediately without any struggle. If characters create a plan, it works without question. All of the conflicts in this book occurs from external forces - there's no tension or interpersonal conflict, and no one does anything that could be seen as unkind or even unpleasant. I honestly can't think of a single instance when anyone even disagreed with each other, and for a book that's meant to be about an oncoming war, that's just... not acceptable.

This feels like a very juvenile piece of fiction. It has nothing to say beyond the surface-level events of its plot; it has no lessons to impart other than Good is Good and Bad is Bad; it has no deeper meaning, no intrigue, no tension. This is an incredibly dull piece of work that will undoubtedly find its way to the discount shelves of secondhand bookstores within months of its publication. It isn't a horrible book. There were even a few moments I liked. But God is this such a waste of print.

Shielded is a phenomenal YA fantasy debut. Princess Jennessara lives in a troubled kingdom with war at its borders and an even deadlier threat looming ahead. To make matters better, her father chooses to marry her off to a neighboring kingdom in exchange for resources. On the journey, her caravan gets attacked and Jennessara must flee. The threat is greater than anything they imagined.

The world-building is outstanding and detailed creating a lush, gorgeous setting you can easily picture in your mind. The magic system is creative and unique. It makes sense and only makes the story that much more intriguing. The characters are well-crafted and fully developed. The relationship between the main characters is exploding with chemistry. Although, it is a bit of a slow-burner. It is unreal how much chemistry they have. It will have readers dying for them to get together.

I truly cannot recommend Shielded enough. Highly recommended to all fans of YA fantasy. This is one not to be missed!

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!

This book was gooooooodddd. Jennesara is the princess of a frozen line of warriors, forced to hide her magic as it threatens her brother right to rule, on the eve of her seventeenth she is promised to another prince and snuck out of the castle when her father suspected something amiss within his lands.

Jenna was a great character, she wasn’t spoiled, but she wasn’t the typical princesses who knew everything because of all her training. Jenna was sent into the Wild, a forest brimming with magic that holds no survivors and learned her and struggled her way through her magic.

The romantic aspect of the book was equally well done. You could understand her reluctance and her anger at being married off to a stranger, but as she meets people of the neighboring kingdom she develops a respect for the kingdom of Turia.

There was a big portion of the book that was I bored reading, and that was her trek through the wild. On her own that was nothing but pages of descriptive sentences and it really dragged after a bit. But I loved the magic system and the world of the kingdoms. I liked how the book ended with things still needing to be resolved, but not a cliffhanger so I can sleep easier at night.

Oh and Prince Enzo, a total babe

This was my first book by this author, It was pretty enjoyable. I would give this book a 4.5 star rating! It was a pretty Quick and easy read!

Shielded follows the journey of Princess Jennesara after her retinue is ambushed on the way to the kingdom of Turia, where she is to wed a prince and secure an alliance for her homeland of Hálendi after a lightning-quick surprise betrothal.

This read was an entertaining if predictable beginning to a YA fantasy trilogy. I enjoyed the Norse-influenced aesthetic of Hálendi. I particularly appreciated that Jenna herself served as an exemplary example of a strong female protagonist; she was strong, compassionate, resilient, brave, and caring, and her character makes you want to root for her throughout the events of the novel. The absolutely gorgeous cover is sure to please and delight many a potential reader.

However, there were too many of the tropes prevalent across YA fantasy that I’m not a fan of for me to love this one. A patriarchal universe, arranged marriage, dead/absent mothers, plot movement that depends on unnecessary/over complicated secret identities, insta-love romance, and a lack of diversity were some of the elements that took away from my enjoyment. I’m also not sure I would put this in a class with Sorcery of Thorns—aside from the protagonist also loving books and there being a plot thread involving a magical library, there isn’t much similarity.

Ultimately, Shielded is a solid, well-written debut. It will be a good fit for many readers of YA fantasy who enjoy the more pervasive types of characters and tropes seen in the genre, but it wasn’t the right fit for me.

Very fast, intriguing, riveting, and mind-bending story telling!! Flanders has created an amazing group of diversified characters, as well as a detailed and flowing time line.
The world building was magical and lush.
Most of all the heroine of the story and her unique and magical story!!
Lots of subject matter; lies, betrayal, family, friendships, and romances all laced up with ribbons of magic!!
A wonderful and gripping first installment!!

(This review contains minor spoilers, proceed with caution)
This book was such a fun read, it packed a good punch. Even though the twists and betrayals were a little predictable I enjoyed seeing the characters' reactions to them. I can see this book being a little boring for people who are used to reading extremely complicated plots, characters, worlds, magic systems, and constant action, so this may not be for everyone. I loved this book regardless. It had action, character development, family relationships, a simple and well-done romance, and mystery.

First, let's talk about the main character. Jenna was an amazing character to read. This is what I ask for when I want a badass, strong female character. Jenna wasn't like those problematic, 'badass' female protagonists that constantly spend endless inner monologues reminding the reader that she isn't like other girls but that she is a tomboy who is also badass, good at everything, breathtakingly gorgeous, smart, a bookworm, and everything you are not. Jenna is smart, fast, resourceful, kind, and understanding. Despite being a strong warrior, she knows her duties and her role towards her kingdom. She doesn't throw a fit when she learns she has to marry a prince she never met; she's saddened by it, but she knows her father needs her and disheartenedly complies. Even after she escapes the Wild, has clearly been through trauma, and must pretend to be the very girl who died for her, she doesn't act unnecessarily stone-cold and guarded around everyone. She is hesitant and stand-offish initially (for her and her kingdom's safety), but once they earn her trust she is kind and loyal. Jenna faces every problem head-on and uses her brain to solve problems while also using her skills to fight. Jenna grows throughout the novel, she becomes stronger in every way and I loved getting to notice that change as I read the book.

I loved reading her interactions with the Turian royal family. Mari and Chiara were so fun to read and a good relief from the imminent danger looming over Jenna's head while she was trying desperately to get more information and save the kingdoms. Both girls were resourceful and important on their own. Many times, authors throw in children into the story to provide some relief but that is the extent of their purpose. However, Mari's secret passageways and stashes were useful. Watching Chiara grow and become a strong, protective woman was amazing to read.

Let's talk about the romance. Enzo was extremely charming but also kind, smart, and protective. The romance that grew between her and Enzo seemed natural and unforced. It was a little insta lovey when they first met and it was a little weird how she was getting bothered by Enzo picking a bride since everyone thinks Jenna is dead even though they didn't know each other that well, but honestly it wasn't that bad. I am so tired of characters professing their undying love for each other at the end of the first book even though they barely know much about each other. Thank goodness that did not happen in this book. At the end of the book, the two of them acknowledged they had a spark and a thing for each other that they were willing to explore and grow. That is what I want.

The magic system in this book is a little confusing. I don't really understand how it works and its limits. But I believe that is because we are reading from Jenna's perspective and she doesn't know much about magic either. From what I gathered, the magic in this world is an energy that can be used to manipulating other energies, some people are more gifted at manipulating certain things more than others. But honestly, the information that was given was enough for me to not be totally lost when magic was involved in the book but I was still a little confused. I hope the author expands on this magic and gives us some more in-depth explanations on the magic systems, how Jenna has magic, the Turian family's magic, the Wild, the artifacts, mages, etc.

The structure of this book was so intriguing. Every now and then, there would be a chapter separate from Jenna's perspective where the reader learns bits and pieces from the people behind all of the plotting. It was so fun getting to put the pieces together and knowing that the main characters are going to be in danger, but not knowing exactly how because the author didn't reveal that much. It certainly kept me entertained and on the edge of my seat.

My only major quips were the slow build and the loosely explained magic; the story didn't actually pick up/get to the point until 50% into the book.

Overall, I definitely recommend this book, especially if you are looking for a simple fantasy read or if you are someone trying to get into YA fantasy. This was a good introductory book to what I hope will be a fun and complex series.

- 4.25 stars -

Thank you to Net Galley for providing me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story! It had very well crafted world building and character development. Jennesara is a decent MC. This book fits the par for what has been released recently in YA. The only thing I wasn’t a fan of was the pacing of the book. It seemed almost like it had two books worth of story squeezed into one! Overall, 4 stars for the story, the world building, the characters, and the love interest.

I received an e-arc from the publisher through NetGalley.

Jennesara, the second born of the Halendi royalty, was not supposed to inherit magic, but she did. Amidst a looming war, Jennesara finds out she is to be betrothed to the Turian prince, Enzo. The real adventure begins when a mysterious man claims that the king of Turia sent him to kill the Halendi royal family. Jennesara has to fight for her life as she tries to figure out who betrayed her family and what exactly happened on the road that day.

The world-building and magic system in <i>Shielded</i> were amazing. The only thing stopping me from giving it 5-stars is that it didn't pick up until around 50%, but once everything started moving, I couldn't put the book down. I'm super excited to see how the second novel goes and will be excited to read anything by KayLynn Flanders in the future. Her writing style and world-building skills are phenomenal.