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An Uncertain Choice #5
A Worthy Rebel
A desperate noblewoman, a rebellious peasant, and a forbidden love.
While fleeing an arranged betrothal to a heartless lord, Lady Isabelle becomes injured and lost. Rescued by a young peasant man, she hides her identity as a noblewoman for fear of reprisal from the peasants who are bitter and angry toward the nobility.
Cole Warwick cannot turn his back on a person in need and soon finds himself falling for Izzy, the gentle and beautiful runaway who is mending in his cottage. As the leader of an imminent uprising against the nobility, he tries to resist his growing feelings for Izzy to protect her from the dangerous life he’s chosen. But the longer she stays, the more he hopes she’ll never leave.
When Izzy’s true identity is revealed, Cole feels betrayed. With the rebellion underway, can Cole forgive Izzy and find a way to save her from an unhappy marriage? Or will he and his peasant army be destroyed before he has the chance to fight for the people and the woman he loves?
While fleeing an arranged betrothal to a heartless lord, Lady Isabelle becomes injured and lost. Rescued by a young peasant man, she hides her identity as a noblewoman for fear of reprisal from the peasants who are bitter and angry toward the nobility.
Cole Warwick cannot turn his back on a person in need and soon finds himself falling for Izzy, the gentle and beautiful runaway who is mending in his cottage. As the leader of an imminent uprising against the nobility, he tries to resist his growing feelings for Izzy to protect her from the dangerous life he’s chosen. But the longer she stays, the more he hopes she’ll never leave.
When Izzy’s true identity is revealed, Cole feels betrayed. With the rebellion underway, can Cole forgive Izzy and find a way to save her from an unhappy marriage? Or will he and his peasant army be destroyed before he has the chance to fight for the people and the woman he loves?
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2018
265 people are currently reading
1704 people want to read
About the author
Jody Hedlund
104 books4,710 followersJody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over fifty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle. Find out more at jodyhedlund.com.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
September 3, 2018
I have loved this entire series, any ya medieval book written by Jody Hedlund, I will read. And I've heard that this is supposed to be the last book in this series, but I hope Hedlund decides to write more young adult books.
It was so fun to see Izzy get her own story and stop living in the shadow of her sister. As much as I love Olivia, I've always had a soft spot for the younger sisters. And I was so pleased to see Cecil again! I love him to pieces.
This is probably my least favorite book of the series, though I enjoyed it immensely. And I think it was because of Cole. He was an okay hero, but I didn't really connect with him. I really liked Posy and Thea though.
On a whole, this book- this entire series- is so good, sweeping and dramatic and romantic. I'm serious, go read all of them.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, all opinions, however, are my own.
It was so fun to see Izzy get her own story and stop living in the shadow of her sister. As much as I love Olivia, I've always had a soft spot for the younger sisters. And I was so pleased to see Cecil again! I love him to pieces.
This is probably my least favorite book of the series, though I enjoyed it immensely. And I think it was because of Cole. He was an okay hero, but I didn't really connect with him. I really liked Posy and Thea though.
On a whole, this book- this entire series- is so good, sweeping and dramatic and romantic. I'm serious, go read all of them.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, all opinions, however, are my own.
December 20, 2019
I have mixed feelings about this book.
On the one hand, I like the message it conveys: that you don't need to try to be like other people in order to be important. But on the other hand, it's a lot more focused on romantic feelings than I generally enjoy. It's not quite my flavor of tea, if that makes sense.
Beautiful, delicate Lady Isabelle runs away from the cruel man her stepmother wants her to marry. Cole Warwick, a handsome woodcutter, rescues her.
Actually, that's what I especially didn't care for in this book: how much emphasis the author and the characters put on physical appearances. I don't mean the sexual attraction, which can happen between non-beautiful people too, but the fact that both Isabelle and Cole were very, very pretty to look at, and they knew it. Long hair, delicate features, and a pleasing figure for one, and a strong jaw, tousled hair, and bulging muscles for the other. Like, I get that this is written for teens, but... it felt too shallow, like it was pandering to looks-obsessed teen girls. And reinforcing the idea that to be a hero or heroine, you ought to look like a cover model.
Anyway, the story itself was a nice look at class conflict, duty versus desire, and learning to trust God to bless you in all circumstances. There was too much emphasis on good works for my taste -- the idea that if you try really hard, God will bless you for your efforts, which is not what I believe, personally. But the writing was fast-paced, and I enjoyed it about as much as I enjoy any romance-centered book.
On the one hand, I like the message it conveys: that you don't need to try to be like other people in order to be important. But on the other hand, it's a lot more focused on romantic feelings than I generally enjoy. It's not quite my flavor of tea, if that makes sense.
Beautiful, delicate Lady Isabelle runs away from the cruel man her stepmother wants her to marry. Cole Warwick, a handsome woodcutter, rescues her.
Actually, that's what I especially didn't care for in this book: how much emphasis the author and the characters put on physical appearances. I don't mean the sexual attraction, which can happen between non-beautiful people too, but the fact that both Isabelle and Cole were very, very pretty to look at, and they knew it. Long hair, delicate features, and a pleasing figure for one, and a strong jaw, tousled hair, and bulging muscles for the other. Like, I get that this is written for teens, but... it felt too shallow, like it was pandering to looks-obsessed teen girls. And reinforcing the idea that to be a hero or heroine, you ought to look like a cover model.
Anyway, the story itself was a nice look at class conflict, duty versus desire, and learning to trust God to bless you in all circumstances. There was too much emphasis on good works for my taste -- the idea that if you try really hard, God will bless you for your efforts, which is not what I believe, personally. But the writing was fast-paced, and I enjoyed it about as much as I enjoy any romance-centered book.
August 19, 2018
'Anger leads to hatred, and hatred gives birth to violence. Once born, violence has an appetite that cannot be sated.'
Jody Hedlund's fifth offering in her 'An Uncertain Choice' series is the best yet, in my opinion. Lady Isabelle is being firmly coerced into marrying an evil landowner. She knows she must marry to save her lands and people, but has great misgiving about Sir Thomas. After meeting him and witnessing one instance of his cruelty, she is determined never to marry him. With the help of her loyal manservant, she escapes, but becomes separated from him and is badly injured. She is discovered by Cole, a peasant who fights the nobility for just treatment. Cole takes her home with him to recover and be treated by his mother, who is a healer. Isabelle has never paid a lot of attention to the lower class but now she is coming face to face with the injustices heaped upon these kind people. Will she do what she should to help them or will she return to her life of leisure?
I have been a Jody Hedlund fan since her first book years ago. I anticipate that I will always be a fan, too. She writes very well, and her medieval stories are my favorites. I was completely caught up in this story and finished it in less than a day. Well done! Highly recommended.
(My thanks to the author and publisher for a copy of this book. The opinions stated here are entirely my own.)
Jody Hedlund's fifth offering in her 'An Uncertain Choice' series is the best yet, in my opinion. Lady Isabelle is being firmly coerced into marrying an evil landowner. She knows she must marry to save her lands and people, but has great misgiving about Sir Thomas. After meeting him and witnessing one instance of his cruelty, she is determined never to marry him. With the help of her loyal manservant, she escapes, but becomes separated from him and is badly injured. She is discovered by Cole, a peasant who fights the nobility for just treatment. Cole takes her home with him to recover and be treated by his mother, who is a healer. Isabelle has never paid a lot of attention to the lower class but now she is coming face to face with the injustices heaped upon these kind people. Will she do what she should to help them or will she return to her life of leisure?
I have been a Jody Hedlund fan since her first book years ago. I anticipate that I will always be a fan, too. She writes very well, and her medieval stories are my favorites. I was completely caught up in this story and finished it in less than a day. Well done! Highly recommended.
(My thanks to the author and publisher for a copy of this book. The opinions stated here are entirely my own.)
August 30, 2018
Oh my! Once again, Jody Hedlund has crafted a tale that will captivate both teens and adults alike. I absolutely loved this story! A Worthy Rebel is book five in the An Uncertain Choice book series, however, it can definitely be read and understood easily without having read any of the prior books.
This story had it all: a truly villainous bad guy, a damsel in distress, downtrodden peasants, and a strong hero who was trying to fight for the rights of his poor village. Izzy and Cole were characters that I could not get enough of. Their growing romance was perfectly written, leaving me cringing as I imagined what Cole’s reaction might be when he discovered Izzy’s true identity.
I also really liked the personality of these two characters. I loved that Isabelle grew into the woman God created her to be as the story progressed. It was quite the thing to see. And Cole, strong and caring for his family and friends, held a lot of understandable anger toward the noble class. Yet, he had growing to do, too. These characters were already likable at the beginning of the book, but grew into truly wonderful characters by the end of it. I enjoyed this book from start to finish.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
This story had it all: a truly villainous bad guy, a damsel in distress, downtrodden peasants, and a strong hero who was trying to fight for the rights of his poor village. Izzy and Cole were characters that I could not get enough of. Their growing romance was perfectly written, leaving me cringing as I imagined what Cole’s reaction might be when he discovered Izzy’s true identity.
I also really liked the personality of these two characters. I loved that Isabelle grew into the woman God created her to be as the story progressed. It was quite the thing to see. And Cole, strong and caring for his family and friends, held a lot of understandable anger toward the noble class. Yet, he had growing to do, too. These characters were already likable at the beginning of the book, but grew into truly wonderful characters by the end of it. I enjoyed this book from start to finish.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
September 27, 2018
This story takes place in Europe around the year of 1394. At that time women whether rich or poor had very little rights in their lives. Usually their parents arranged marriage for their daughters. The unmarried girl might have not even met her intended. I can only say that I'm glad things are different today.
Lady Isabelle is a young noblewoman and her step mother has arranged for her to marry Sir Thomas Neville. They have made the trip to Sir Neville's castle in Pembroke. Things haven't gone well as both Lady Margerat and Lady Isabelle are attacked by angry peasants as they neared Sir Thomas's castle. Lord Neville takes justice into his own hands and has two of the attackers hang . He has forced Lady Isabelle to watch and at her request to spare a girl he orders his guard to cut off the peasant's hand.
Lady Isabelle finds Sir Thomas to be cruel and heartless and she decides to run away to escape her upcoming wedding to him. She gets lost in the forest and is half dead when a young and handsome peasant finds her and arranges for her care until she recovers. Cole Warwick, her rescuer finds Lady Isabelle to be very beautiful and he is attracted to her. He hates nobility and hasn't any idea who she really is.
As the story unfolds both Issy as she is now called and Cole spend a lot of time together. As she is recovering Sir Thomas Neville never stops searching for her and should he discover her with the peasants he will charge the entire community of abducting her and the consequences will be horrible.
I found this to be a very heart warming story . I had no trouble being drawn into this story from the first chapter. It definitely was a page turner. I have never been disappointed with any of Jody Hedlund's books that I've read. It's the first time I've read anything in this genre and probably won't be the last.
This book would be good for young adults or adults of any age. It was a clean read which I liked. It is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
I was very fortunate to win a signed copy of this book from a giveaway given by the author. I wasn't asked to do a review but was more than happy to do so since I loved the story. All comments are my own thoughts on the book. I highly recommend it.
Lady Isabelle is a young noblewoman and her step mother has arranged for her to marry Sir Thomas Neville. They have made the trip to Sir Neville's castle in Pembroke. Things haven't gone well as both Lady Margerat and Lady Isabelle are attacked by angry peasants as they neared Sir Thomas's castle. Lord Neville takes justice into his own hands and has two of the attackers hang . He has forced Lady Isabelle to watch and at her request to spare a girl he orders his guard to cut off the peasant's hand.
Lady Isabelle finds Sir Thomas to be cruel and heartless and she decides to run away to escape her upcoming wedding to him. She gets lost in the forest and is half dead when a young and handsome peasant finds her and arranges for her care until she recovers. Cole Warwick, her rescuer finds Lady Isabelle to be very beautiful and he is attracted to her. He hates nobility and hasn't any idea who she really is.
As the story unfolds both Issy as she is now called and Cole spend a lot of time together. As she is recovering Sir Thomas Neville never stops searching for her and should he discover her with the peasants he will charge the entire community of abducting her and the consequences will be horrible.
I found this to be a very heart warming story . I had no trouble being drawn into this story from the first chapter. It definitely was a page turner. I have never been disappointed with any of Jody Hedlund's books that I've read. It's the first time I've read anything in this genre and probably won't be the last.
This book would be good for young adults or adults of any age. It was a clean read which I liked. It is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
I was very fortunate to win a signed copy of this book from a giveaway given by the author. I wasn't asked to do a review but was more than happy to do so since I loved the story. All comments are my own thoughts on the book. I highly recommend it.
September 4, 2018
I really, really love this series so it's a happy day when a new book releases! Yay!
I think I loved Izzy and Cole from the very beginning. They are both loyal and kind. Cole is a fierce defender and leader for his people who are downtrodden and suffering. He is smart and strong but he is also gentle and kind. It's an awesome combination and I both loved and admired him. I think the way he went from pretending to all in with Izzy was sigh worthy. He didn't hum and haw too long, he knew and he jumped in. He knew what he wanted, he let Izzy know and then pursued it. Yumma.
Izzy is so determined to help her people. She wants to be something noble and live up to her position and duty but doesn't know exactly how to do that, especially when she feels like she is living in her sister's shadow. I thought she was brave and kind. Especially in the end. She was a rock star. I really loved her.
The forward momentum was good and I was invested in the story the whole way through. This is a fantastic addition to this series! yay!
Content: violence (some graphic in nature), kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I think I loved Izzy and Cole from the very beginning. They are both loyal and kind. Cole is a fierce defender and leader for his people who are downtrodden and suffering. He is smart and strong but he is also gentle and kind. It's an awesome combination and I both loved and admired him. I think the way he went from pretending to all in with Izzy was sigh worthy. He didn't hum and haw too long, he knew and he jumped in. He knew what he wanted, he let Izzy know and then pursued it. Yumma.
Izzy is so determined to help her people. She wants to be something noble and live up to her position and duty but doesn't know exactly how to do that, especially when she feels like she is living in her sister's shadow. I thought she was brave and kind. Especially in the end. She was a rock star. I really loved her.
The forward momentum was good and I was invested in the story the whole way through. This is a fantastic addition to this series! yay!
Content: violence (some graphic in nature), kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 5, 2020
Ah, I really enjoyed this conclusion to the series! I totally devoured this book, I could not put it down. I could tell from the previous book that I would love Lady Izzy & I was right. One of my favorite things about Jody Hedlund’s writing is the character development & no character seems the same. I especially loved Izzy because her personality is a lot like mine & I enjoy reading about a softer heroine. (Not everyone wants to be in the middle of the action like her sister Olivia!) Izzy is such a lovable heroine- she is very sensitive, reserved, & very compassionate. Cole is a well written match for her. He’s a strong man-of-action type yet compassionate as well. Their chemistry was great.💗
Like the other books in this series, it has strong moral messages for young teens. The book tackles the importance of inner beauty & purity in relationships (which I love to see!).
Overall, the book had lovable characters, a storyline that kept me wanting to read more, & a reckoning that concluded the series well.
Like the other books in this series, it has strong moral messages for young teens. The book tackles the importance of inner beauty & purity in relationships (which I love to see!).
Overall, the book had lovable characters, a storyline that kept me wanting to read more, & a reckoning that concluded the series well.
October 19, 2021
Very well written!
September 5, 2018
A Worthy Rebel is the final chapter in the "An Uncertain Choice" series by Jody Hedlund and I greatly enjoyed this finale. I have to say as someone that doesn't really qualify as a "YA reader", I still very much enjoyed it. The old quote by C.S. Lewis, "Some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again," applies here- a great story is a great story however it is quantified.
As this story begins Lady Isabelle, Countess of Ulster is running to get away from the very cruel and possessive man Lord Neville, her intended who is a match arranged from her Cinderella'ish type step-mother, who she is just now realizing is definitely not someone that she should be saying "I do" to, but rather someone to be avoiding at all costs. A very loyal and kind manservant helps her to make her escape through the local forest land, home to local mistreated peasants of the land and most notedly Cole Warwick, leader of the peasant rebels. Lady Isabelle and her servant are separated and she is discovered by Cole in a very ill state and taken back to his village to help nurse her back to health. Isabelle, realizing where she is, that she cannot disclose her true identity to Cole as she discovers he is part of the rebels who are conspiring to stage an uprising against Lord Neville and his rule. Her role as nobility in her mind, would not be met with positive feelings by the peasants so she becomes "Izzy" a nickname that her sister Olivia called her, to Cole and his mother and niece.
There is immediate connection with Cole and Izzy and as she continues to get to know him and the people that are in his village, she comes to see what hard working amazing people they are. As her feelings grow for Cole, she knows that she needs to tell him who she really is, but just as she is about to tell him the truth about her true identity, she is interrupted and can't disclose to him who she is. As the story goes on, the characters both grow in their ability to do what's right and what God would want, and not let fear, or anger dictate their actions. For me , I felt a bit of a kinship with Izzy as she had to do something completely uncharacteristic for her, push fear aside and do what she was called to do. The "noble woman" falling in love with the commoner is well done in this story and it's fun to see how things get resolved in the end, which I will leave for you to find out . I would also like to point out that the discussion questions at the end of the book are very well done, and I feel would lead to some great conversations with teen girls especially. Thank you Jody Hedlund for a wonderful series and for writing some great books for young and old alike!
5 stars- I was given a complimentary kindle copy of this book for review purposes. All opinions expressed are my own.
As this story begins Lady Isabelle, Countess of Ulster is running to get away from the very cruel and possessive man Lord Neville, her intended who is a match arranged from her Cinderella'ish type step-mother, who she is just now realizing is definitely not someone that she should be saying "I do" to, but rather someone to be avoiding at all costs. A very loyal and kind manservant helps her to make her escape through the local forest land, home to local mistreated peasants of the land and most notedly Cole Warwick, leader of the peasant rebels. Lady Isabelle and her servant are separated and she is discovered by Cole in a very ill state and taken back to his village to help nurse her back to health. Isabelle, realizing where she is, that she cannot disclose her true identity to Cole as she discovers he is part of the rebels who are conspiring to stage an uprising against Lord Neville and his rule. Her role as nobility in her mind, would not be met with positive feelings by the peasants so she becomes "Izzy" a nickname that her sister Olivia called her, to Cole and his mother and niece.
There is immediate connection with Cole and Izzy and as she continues to get to know him and the people that are in his village, she comes to see what hard working amazing people they are. As her feelings grow for Cole, she knows that she needs to tell him who she really is, but just as she is about to tell him the truth about her true identity, she is interrupted and can't disclose to him who she is. As the story goes on, the characters both grow in their ability to do what's right and what God would want, and not let fear, or anger dictate their actions. For me , I felt a bit of a kinship with Izzy as she had to do something completely uncharacteristic for her, push fear aside and do what she was called to do. The "noble woman" falling in love with the commoner is well done in this story and it's fun to see how things get resolved in the end, which I will leave for you to find out . I would also like to point out that the discussion questions at the end of the book are very well done, and I feel would lead to some great conversations with teen girls especially. Thank you Jody Hedlund for a wonderful series and for writing some great books for young and old alike!
5 stars- I was given a complimentary kindle copy of this book for review purposes. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 5, 2019
Really good! The last little bit kind of drug, but that is to be expected.
September 5, 2018
A thoroughly enjoyable YA read with great, relatable characters, a realistic setting, and several gems of truth and good counsel for anyone, especially our youth.
The characters from the primary to secondary are terrific. This book stands very well on its own, but I highly recommend reading the series. All the books have a terrific gem of truth on which to think and great stories to enjoy. The characters from those stories make appearances in this one.
The book is so incredibly well done. I’m thrilled to have a YA series that is clean and teaches morality and purity. Teen reads that I want my daughter to have are very hard to find.
I received an ebook from the author. All opinions are my own. ( Its so great that I have a paperback headed my way for my forever shelves! )
The characters from the primary to secondary are terrific. This book stands very well on its own, but I highly recommend reading the series. All the books have a terrific gem of truth on which to think and great stories to enjoy. The characters from those stories make appearances in this one.
The book is so incredibly well done. I’m thrilled to have a YA series that is clean and teaches morality and purity. Teen reads that I want my daughter to have are very hard to find.
I received an ebook from the author. All opinions are my own. ( Its so great that I have a paperback headed my way for my forever shelves! )
September 10, 2018
Wow, Jody Hedlund! How do you do it? Somehow you manage to draw the reader (me) in and make me want to read non-stop until I find out what happens. How is that possible?
Isabelle and Cole are great main characters. Even though I did not like them as much as the other characters in the rest of the series, I still enjoyed reading their story. I was actually surprised with Isabelle’s story. In A Loyal Heart, the third book in An Uncertain Choice series, I thought I knew how Isabella’s story would end and how she would get her happily ever after. But I guess I was wrong. However, I am glad how it ended anyhow!
The story was super easy read. I read it in just a few days—but that might also be because I didn’t want to put it down. I would recommend this book to everyone who loves a cute, medieval romance. Also, I would also recommend the rest of the books in this series. They are all very cute and have sweet stories.
The cover is beautiful. I really like her dress. So I’m going to give it 5 stars. Plus, I really like the background and scenery.
I am going to give this book itself 4 stars. It was wonderfully well-written. But I just didn’t like it as much as the rest of the books in the series. However, I will still probably be reading this book again when I need a story full romance, adventure, and intrigue.
Isabelle and Cole are great main characters. Even though I did not like them as much as the other characters in the rest of the series, I still enjoyed reading their story. I was actually surprised with Isabelle’s story. In A Loyal Heart, the third book in An Uncertain Choice series, I thought I knew how Isabella’s story would end and how she would get her happily ever after. But I guess I was wrong. However, I am glad how it ended anyhow!
The story was super easy read. I read it in just a few days—but that might also be because I didn’t want to put it down. I would recommend this book to everyone who loves a cute, medieval romance. Also, I would also recommend the rest of the books in this series. They are all very cute and have sweet stories.
The cover is beautiful. I really like her dress. So I’m going to give it 5 stars. Plus, I really like the background and scenery.
I am going to give this book itself 4 stars. It was wonderfully well-written. But I just didn’t like it as much as the rest of the books in the series. However, I will still probably be reading this book again when I need a story full romance, adventure, and intrigue.
September 3, 2018
"Was there a difference between fighting for those you loved versus fighting out of hatred for the enemy?"
"Be not overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good." . . . Cole Warwick's trustworthy friend Priest, had the uncanny ability to apply the Holy Scripture to nearly every circumstance that life had to offer, and in this case . . . . Cole's anger towards Lord Thomas Neville had provoked him to the point of rage and revenge. How dare the man take the lives of two young innocents while permanently maiming another? All while allowing an audience to eyewitness his nefariousness; the lord's lovely bride-to-be.
Lady Isabelle is desperate to escape an arranged marriage with the brute whose reputation has already proceeded him, and so follows her manservant deep into the forest during the dead of night, determined to reach her sister; Lady Olivia, the Baroness of Windsor, in order to seek refuge and protection. The escape took a wrong turn and Izzy finds herself desperately lost and in need of medical assistance, when the leader of Lord Neville's dissatisfied peasants happens by; tenderly carrying her to his home and placing her into the capable hands of his mother, who gently tends Izzy's wounds and offers her a place of sanctuary to rest and recuperate.
Never disclosing her true identity, Izzy allows herself to be drawn to the honorable woodcutter, fearing that at some point her duplicity will stir a bloody rebellion, costing the lives of those she had grown to love. Could she find the courage to rebel against "the way things had always been done"? This lovely story is full of life lessons for readers of any generation, while captivating its audience with page turning intensity.
I received a copy of this book from the author, the opinions stated are entirely my own.
"Be not overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good." . . . Cole Warwick's trustworthy friend Priest, had the uncanny ability to apply the Holy Scripture to nearly every circumstance that life had to offer, and in this case . . . . Cole's anger towards Lord Thomas Neville had provoked him to the point of rage and revenge. How dare the man take the lives of two young innocents while permanently maiming another? All while allowing an audience to eyewitness his nefariousness; the lord's lovely bride-to-be.
Lady Isabelle is desperate to escape an arranged marriage with the brute whose reputation has already proceeded him, and so follows her manservant deep into the forest during the dead of night, determined to reach her sister; Lady Olivia, the Baroness of Windsor, in order to seek refuge and protection. The escape took a wrong turn and Izzy finds herself desperately lost and in need of medical assistance, when the leader of Lord Neville's dissatisfied peasants happens by; tenderly carrying her to his home and placing her into the capable hands of his mother, who gently tends Izzy's wounds and offers her a place of sanctuary to rest and recuperate.
Never disclosing her true identity, Izzy allows herself to be drawn to the honorable woodcutter, fearing that at some point her duplicity will stir a bloody rebellion, costing the lives of those she had grown to love. Could she find the courage to rebel against "the way things had always been done"? This lovely story is full of life lessons for readers of any generation, while captivating its audience with page turning intensity.
I received a copy of this book from the author, the opinions stated are entirely my own.
February 27, 2024
This took me so much longer than it should have but I loved this book. This is the final book in the uncertain choice series!! And I have thoroughly enjoyed the 4 I have read. I still need to read the first one, but this ends the series on a fantastic note.
This book follows Isabelle, Olivia’s sister from the fourth book on her love story. Isabella escapes a marriage that she is forced into that doesn’t involve love or even likeness. It’s all for the guy who’s a jerk by the way. She escapes and stumbles upon the family of Cole, Posy, and Thea. They nurse her back to health and it goes on from there to figure out how to solve the problem.
Isabelle throughout this book learns to trust herself and develop her own identity that isn’t based on her sister or any other noble lady for that matter. She is fierce, and loves heartily. She doesn’t want anyone hurt. She fights for Cole and she fights for the peasants she has come to love and her final war scene *chefs kiss* on how brave she became.
Cole! My goodness does Jody know how to write men that make you swoon. This man has facial hair and curly black hair! Swoon enough for me. He loves Posy and his mother so much and will do anything to save them like plan an uprising! He doesn’t let anyone knock him down and fights for what he cares about.
Cole and Isabelle have to work together to save the people they love and find out if each other are worth it too! If you haven’t read this series, you need to you won’t regret the action packed historical fiction love stories that these books are!
4.50/5 stars.❤️
This book follows Isabelle, Olivia’s sister from the fourth book on her love story. Isabella escapes a marriage that she is forced into that doesn’t involve love or even likeness. It’s all for the guy who’s a jerk by the way. She escapes and stumbles upon the family of Cole, Posy, and Thea. They nurse her back to health and it goes on from there to figure out how to solve the problem.
Isabelle throughout this book learns to trust herself and develop her own identity that isn’t based on her sister or any other noble lady for that matter. She is fierce, and loves heartily. She doesn’t want anyone hurt. She fights for Cole and she fights for the peasants she has come to love and her final war scene *chefs kiss* on how brave she became.
Cole! My goodness does Jody know how to write men that make you swoon. This man has facial hair and curly black hair! Swoon enough for me. He loves Posy and his mother so much and will do anything to save them like plan an uprising! He doesn’t let anyone knock him down and fights for what he cares about.
Cole and Isabelle have to work together to save the people they love and find out if each other are worth it too! If you haven’t read this series, you need to you won’t regret the action packed historical fiction love stories that these books are!
4.50/5 stars.❤️
August 9, 2022
I really enjoyed this unique medieval romance and the way it really contrasted the difference between peasants and nobility during this time. The characters were well-written and developed. I loved Cole and his worthy heart. Izzy really grew on me and I was glad to see her find her own strength in the story.
A clean romance, I highly recommend this book and series.
A clean romance, I highly recommend this book and series.
May 26, 2024
3.5⭐️
January 18, 2019
Did not finish. This was a most anticipated read for me, have LOVED the entire series but for some reason this one fell flat for me. Very well written, but much of the story Izzy is healing from an injury that just didn't seem over 100 pages of healing necessary for me. The king is brutal and definitely evil, but Cole and his band of rebels seem hopelessly ill prepared to bring the guy down. The romance is nice and clean, but I just didn't connect with these characters at all and really wanted to. I know it's a happy ending but I just didn't get that far.
April 19, 2024
it was so sweet! a rebel and a lady. i do think it was rushed kind of like the other ones, but it was sweet nonetheless
September 30, 2018
A Worthy Rebel is the fifth book in the An Uncertain Choice series. To my knowledge, this is the conclusion of the series but I sure wouldn't complain if the author put out five more.
I've said it each time that "this one was my favorite" and yet, I feel that way once again. This author consistently publishes books that make me fall in love with new characters. I'm then convinced that the latest book is the best book when they're ALL the best.
I don't know how many times I've read a review and I practically screamed at the blogger to tell me why he/she loved the book rather than singing the praises. Yet, here I am doing the same. So, I'm going to try really hard to tone down my enthusiasm and share what I loved about this book.
I love the characters in this book. The girls are not completely helpless and the men are not perfect. These characters have flaws and imperfections that I can relate to. Each of them has their own challenges that they have to face in both their personal and spiritual relationships.
The social situations, much like today, have room for improvement and the author tackles issues such as poverty, starvation and differences in social classes. Issues that are still relevant.
The lessons that we can learn from these characters are valuable. Learning to let God use us exactly where He has placed us in life. No matter if we have a little or a lot—our love for God and our neighbors is what truly matters in life. Not only can these characters teach us to allow God to use us for His glory, but they also remind us that we are valuable to Him.
These novellas are more than just a sweet romance for young (or in my case, old) ladies. They are sweet romances full of godly wisdom, breathtaking action and just the right amount of humor.
I truly wish that I could think of something borderline negative to say about this book as to lend this review credibility. I just can't think of a negative thing to say.
If you love a sweet, Christian romance with a Robin Hood feel, this book, this entire series, is one that you should consider.
This book was provided to me by The Publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. All opinions are my own.
Note: Kristin reads and reviews both Christian and secular fiction on A Simply Enchanted Life. Out of respect for my readers, I am including a content review. This content review will help you decide whether this book is suitable for you.
Christian or Secular: Christian
ASEL Rating: Mild: due to violence (though no detailed description), or other content to be aware of.
Suggested Age: 12+
Profanity: None
Sex: None
Violence: mild violence, a girl has her hand chopped off
Drugs & Alcohol: None
Trigger Warning: None
A Worthy Rebel is book #5 in An Uncertain Choice series by Jody Hedlund. Other books in the series include The Vow (#0.5), An Uncertain Choice (#1), A Daring Sacrifice (#2), and For Love and Honor (#3) and A Loyal Heart (#4).
This review originally posted on A Simply Enchanted Life
I've said it each time that "this one was my favorite" and yet, I feel that way once again. This author consistently publishes books that make me fall in love with new characters. I'm then convinced that the latest book is the best book when they're ALL the best.
I don't know how many times I've read a review and I practically screamed at the blogger to tell me why he/she loved the book rather than singing the praises. Yet, here I am doing the same. So, I'm going to try really hard to tone down my enthusiasm and share what I loved about this book.
I love the characters in this book. The girls are not completely helpless and the men are not perfect. These characters have flaws and imperfections that I can relate to. Each of them has their own challenges that they have to face in both their personal and spiritual relationships.
The social situations, much like today, have room for improvement and the author tackles issues such as poverty, starvation and differences in social classes. Issues that are still relevant.
The lessons that we can learn from these characters are valuable. Learning to let God use us exactly where He has placed us in life. No matter if we have a little or a lot—our love for God and our neighbors is what truly matters in life. Not only can these characters teach us to allow God to use us for His glory, but they also remind us that we are valuable to Him.
These novellas are more than just a sweet romance for young (or in my case, old) ladies. They are sweet romances full of godly wisdom, breathtaking action and just the right amount of humor.
I truly wish that I could think of something borderline negative to say about this book as to lend this review credibility. I just can't think of a negative thing to say.
If you love a sweet, Christian romance with a Robin Hood feel, this book, this entire series, is one that you should consider.
This book was provided to me by The Publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. All opinions are my own.
Note: Kristin reads and reviews both Christian and secular fiction on A Simply Enchanted Life. Out of respect for my readers, I am including a content review. This content review will help you decide whether this book is suitable for you.
Christian or Secular: Christian
ASEL Rating: Mild: due to violence (though no detailed description), or other content to be aware of.
Suggested Age: 12+
Profanity: None
Sex: None
Violence: mild violence, a girl has her hand chopped off
Drugs & Alcohol: None
Trigger Warning: None
A Worthy Rebel is book #5 in An Uncertain Choice series by Jody Hedlund. Other books in the series include The Vow (#0.5), An Uncertain Choice (#1), A Daring Sacrifice (#2), and For Love and Honor (#3) and A Loyal Heart (#4).
This review originally posted on A Simply Enchanted Life
May 29, 2020
Clean Read
I really enjoyed this read. As usual Jody is a ‘Master’ at writing. There were so many phrases that the reader can apply as principles in their lives and her descriptive writing is like poetry in some places which I enjoyed. Example:
“Our love was like a morning mist that would dispel at the first harsh rays of reality.” You see what I mean? Just beautiful!
The characters were well developed, not rushed and boy their chemistry was on fire and yet ‘CLEAN’. I recommend this read to anyone who enjoys clean historical young adult romance.
I read the previous book in this series ‘Loyal Heart’ which I gave a 4 star at that time however, when the hero and heroin from that book ‘Olivier and Aldric’ were at the wedding of Izzy and Cole a statement was made about their view, that I found them to be prejudiced which contradicts what they stood for in their story about a loyal heart.
The statement that riled me was: “Like most of the nobility, she (Oliver, izzy’s sister whom the previous book is based on) and Aldric hadn’t given our marriage their approval or blessing.” Aldric’s character here shows him to be hypocritical. He hid his nobility title (Baron) from his men for them to have respect for him and not view him only as titled but as a real warrior and person that would die for them regardless of station. It made it seem like the author was setting a double standard here- it’s ok to drop your status to get friends for your benefit of war/battle and gain a fortune, but later put back on your nobility and withhold your blessing from another for his inability to change his status because society expects it! Even though, he (Cole) is an honorable man that deeply loves and cherishes Izzy.
Shame! Oliver herself have this view. Hmmmmm.
I no longer like Oliver and Aldric! I’m going to edit my review of ‘loyal heart’ to a 2star.
I really enjoyed this read. As usual Jody is a ‘Master’ at writing. There were so many phrases that the reader can apply as principles in their lives and her descriptive writing is like poetry in some places which I enjoyed. Example:
“Our love was like a morning mist that would dispel at the first harsh rays of reality.” You see what I mean? Just beautiful!
The characters were well developed, not rushed and boy their chemistry was on fire and yet ‘CLEAN’. I recommend this read to anyone who enjoys clean historical young adult romance.
I read the previous book in this series ‘Loyal Heart’ which I gave a 4 star at that time however, when the hero and heroin from that book ‘Olivier and Aldric’ were at the wedding of Izzy and Cole a statement was made about their view, that I found them to be prejudiced which contradicts what they stood for in their story about a loyal heart.
The statement that riled me was: “Like most of the nobility, she (Oliver, izzy’s sister whom the previous book is based on) and Aldric hadn’t given our marriage their approval or blessing.” Aldric’s character here shows him to be hypocritical. He hid his nobility title (Baron) from his men for them to have respect for him and not view him only as titled but as a real warrior and person that would die for them regardless of station. It made it seem like the author was setting a double standard here- it’s ok to drop your status to get friends for your benefit of war/battle and gain a fortune, but later put back on your nobility and withhold your blessing from another for his inability to change his status because society expects it! Even though, he (Cole) is an honorable man that deeply loves and cherishes Izzy.
Shame! Oliver herself have this view. Hmmmmm.
I no longer like Oliver and Aldric! I’m going to edit my review of ‘loyal heart’ to a 2star.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2018
I was swept away into the intrigue and adventure right from the beginning of this delightful story! Jody Hedlund has a way with words that seems to captivate my imagination and keep me eagerly turning pages late into the night.
Lady Isabelle starts out as a young lady who is fearful and sheltered. I enjoyed watching her grow into a strong character as she not only learns to trust those she once feared, but she also learns to see her own worth and her ability to make a difference in the lives of those around her.
Cole Warwick has a gentle heart for those he sees in need, yet at the same time, he carries around a heavy burden of anger toward the unjust treatment from the nobility. Cole often brushes aside the advice of not only his mother but of his best friend. However, their words do stick with him and he comes to understand that letting go of the past is the only way he will be able to move forward and enjoy his future.
Will two people from polar opposite ends of the class spectrum find a way to be together? Or will their differences be too big of a wall to tear down?
While this book is the 5th in the series, you could read it as a stand-alone. A few characters show up from previous books, but not in such a way that you would feel lost. With that said, however, I would encourage you to read the other books, as they are just as delightful as this one.
I give this story 4.5 stars and would encourage you to snag a copy of this book for yourself and a friend to enjoy!
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
Lady Isabelle starts out as a young lady who is fearful and sheltered. I enjoyed watching her grow into a strong character as she not only learns to trust those she once feared, but she also learns to see her own worth and her ability to make a difference in the lives of those around her.
Cole Warwick has a gentle heart for those he sees in need, yet at the same time, he carries around a heavy burden of anger toward the unjust treatment from the nobility. Cole often brushes aside the advice of not only his mother but of his best friend. However, their words do stick with him and he comes to understand that letting go of the past is the only way he will be able to move forward and enjoy his future.
Will two people from polar opposite ends of the class spectrum find a way to be together? Or will their differences be too big of a wall to tear down?
While this book is the 5th in the series, you could read it as a stand-alone. A few characters show up from previous books, but not in such a way that you would feel lost. With that said, however, I would encourage you to read the other books, as they are just as delightful as this one.
I give this story 4.5 stars and would encourage you to snag a copy of this book for yourself and a friend to enjoy!
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
September 10, 2018
Surprise surprise! Jody has given us another heart melting medieval romance. And like the last book, we didn't know it was coming!
We first meet Izzy in, A Loyal Heart, the fourth book in the series. I was indifferent to her then. She seemed timid against her sister's strength. In the beginning of this book I still didn't have strong feelings for her. I admit, it took me a good third of the way to really connect with her. The shifting point came at the end of chapter 7 with the quote, "I didn't want to leave until I had the chance to discover who I really was." For some reason that reminds me of the "remember who you are" line from The Lion King.
The romance between Izzy and Cole was a bit sweeter and less in your face than the other romances in the series. I feel like they even had less interactions as well. The pacing seemed slower too. That is until chapter 16 when everything just began to roll. I suppose that's how story pacing works, right? It's how you get drawn in. :D
By chapter 20 I was reading like the wind to find out how it ends. FYI, it ends good. This was a good one. Just what I needed. Seeing Izzy grow as a person, breaking free from her mentality of comparing herself to others, mainly her sister, was empowering. I believe we all go through times of comparison and discovering who we are. There's a line Izzy says near the end, "I had to learn to be myself." To which I say- Amen, sistah!
I received a copy of this book for my reading and reviewing pleasure. All opinions are my own.
We first meet Izzy in, A Loyal Heart, the fourth book in the series. I was indifferent to her then. She seemed timid against her sister's strength. In the beginning of this book I still didn't have strong feelings for her. I admit, it took me a good third of the way to really connect with her. The shifting point came at the end of chapter 7 with the quote, "I didn't want to leave until I had the chance to discover who I really was." For some reason that reminds me of the "remember who you are" line from The Lion King.
The romance between Izzy and Cole was a bit sweeter and less in your face than the other romances in the series. I feel like they even had less interactions as well. The pacing seemed slower too. That is until chapter 16 when everything just began to roll. I suppose that's how story pacing works, right? It's how you get drawn in. :D
By chapter 20 I was reading like the wind to find out how it ends. FYI, it ends good. This was a good one. Just what I needed. Seeing Izzy grow as a person, breaking free from her mentality of comparing herself to others, mainly her sister, was empowering. I believe we all go through times of comparison and discovering who we are. There's a line Izzy says near the end, "I had to learn to be myself." To which I say- Amen, sistah!
I received a copy of this book for my reading and reviewing pleasure. All opinions are my own.
August 31, 2018
I've really enjoyed all of Jody's YA novels in this series, and I was very excited to learn there would be a fifth installment. After the last book I was pretty confident that I knew who Isabelle would end up with (Sir Darien) so I was totally surprised that this book features Cole, an entirely new character as its leading man! I loved Cole, he was a great hero. I liked Isabelle in the last book so it was great to get inside her head and get to know her. Her character development from the beginning of the novel to the end was fabulous. I loved watching her learn to be courageous and heroic in her own unique way! Like all of Jody's books this one has a fabulous cast of secondary characters! One of my favorites was Cole's best friend Priest, I greatly admired and absolutely loved how he quoted scripture in casual conversations, I wanna have a faith like him when I grow up! Another thing I loved about this book was the message that kisses are something to save for the person you love and want to marry and not something to be given away lightly, this is a great message for teens and adults alike.
Overall, this was a great conclusion to this series! I really enjoyed reading A Worthy Rebel and I hope Jody writes more YA novels in the future, because I can't wait to read them!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
Overall, this was a great conclusion to this series! I really enjoyed reading A Worthy Rebel and I hope Jody writes more YA novels in the future, because I can't wait to read them!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
June 1, 2020
No. Sorry. Just no. I really could not get on with this book. I understand its Young Adult, so aimed at teenagers, but even then. It was so annoyingly repetitive, constantly telling instead of showing. We don't need to be told 5 or 6 times how pretty and kind Izzy is, how sacrificial, how hardworking and decent Cole is. How much his family suffered. We got it. Just really, stop telling us.
Even the characterization isn't great. Isabel is almost sickly sweet: she supposedly hates violence so much it makes her sick, and yet does not even bat an eyelid when her manservant attacks guards in front of her to get their horses.
The villain is basically a caricature. Most of his actions were inexplicable, or just so exaggeratedly evil it was almost cartoonish: he also felt very generic and similar to a lot of other villains in this series. Complete with his own personal torture dungeon, cos' he really loves torturing people. There does seem to be this ever-present and slightly disturbing fixation with torture in every novel in this series.
Medieval nobles really just had much better things to do than stay at home and micromanage their tenants. In fact, most didn't even personally take charge of their lands and just left it to estate managers, but Sir Thomas apparently didn't get that memo.
As Historical Fiction, this story was, I'm sorry to say, atrocious. It described as a work of 'Historical Recreation but the only way it resembles actual history is that there was an event called the Peasant's Revolt that took place in 1385- and even the date for that is wrong. It happened in 1381 not 1385.
The reasons why the Revolt happened (it was basically about tax) are totally misunderstood.
Worse still though, the story was with sloppy historical inaccuracies, inconsistencies and lazy misconceptions. That all peasants were dirt poor, wore rags and were starving. In fact, there were considerable variations in wealth among the Medieval English peasantry, because 'peasant' really just meant someone who lived in the country and wasn't gentry. There were basically two types of peasants: the villeins who were tied to the land and had to pay certain fines and dues for marriage, could not leave etc.
Then there were Free peasants, who held their lands by rent, could buy and sell land, did not have to pay fines and could move around. They could be pretty well off. In this novel though they're all lumped together into one stereotypical and homogeneous mass. They pay rent, yet apparently haven’t the rights of Free Tenants.
We're continually told they're poor as dirt: and yet they all have beds (pretty expensive) and some even their own weaving equipment. We're told that they struggle to feed themselves yet have baskets full of vegetables in their homes.
We're told they'll starve over winter because they can't hunt: why not just slaughter their nice fattened pigs like actual Medieval peasants did? They throw peat on their fires: when they live right next to a flippin' great forest. Also, one of the villager's wives has the name Wilfred. Which is a male name, and I'm pretty sure always has been.
Oh, and the peasant workforce living on Isabel's own land are so incompetent that they don't even know about crop rotation- a system which commonly used by European farmers for nearly 1000 years- and literally relied on her to buy food for them for the winter.
I mean honestly: what kind of farmer sucks so badly at farming that he has to have his landlord give HIM money to buy food?
No. Just no. Medieval peasants only tended to starve if there was a crop failure or natural disaster or something, but for some unknown reason in this novel they're totally dependent on the heroine like- everything.
The most egregious historical inaccuracy though was the claim that it was considered to be a 'mortal sin' and 'heresy' for peasants to try and better themselves and rise through the ranks. NO. IT. WAS. NOT. There are actual historical examples of peasants who did just that: rising to gentry within a generation or two through advantageous marriages or buying land.
It’s a total misunderstanding and oversimplification of Medieval religion and social attitudes: and honestly, I think Catholics would take issue at such an interpretation of what constitutes Mortal Sin.
I think authors ought to make some effort to acquaint themselves with these things before writing novels set in the Middle Ages.
Also: if you're going to write battle scenes, please acquaint yourselves with weaponry and tactics from the period. I'll grant that most of the details were right: but there were a couple of silly errors that really let the side down.
Like expensive and heavy weapons breaking after a single use (as if they were made of plastic or something), and just being left. Two minutes research on Google tells me that Pikes, a weapon mentioned in this novel, were spears on poles that could be up to twenty feet long. Common sense would suggest they couldn't be used on horseback, like the soldiers do here.
I do commend Mrs Hedlund's desire to write clean and wholesome stories for teens, but this really didn't do it for me. Maybe I'm not the right age group, but the whole story just felt rushed. I'd like to see a more historical research as well if the stories are going to be set in a real historical time and place or incorporate actual historical events.
I say this because so many people are likely to take these as an accurate representation of the past or as 'fact'.
Even the characterization isn't great. Isabel is almost sickly sweet: she supposedly hates violence so much it makes her sick, and yet does not even bat an eyelid when her manservant attacks guards in front of her to get their horses.
The villain is basically a caricature. Most of his actions were inexplicable, or just so exaggeratedly evil it was almost cartoonish: he also felt very generic and similar to a lot of other villains in this series. Complete with his own personal torture dungeon, cos' he really loves torturing people. There does seem to be this ever-present and slightly disturbing fixation with torture in every novel in this series.
Medieval nobles really just had much better things to do than stay at home and micromanage their tenants. In fact, most didn't even personally take charge of their lands and just left it to estate managers, but Sir Thomas apparently didn't get that memo.
As Historical Fiction, this story was, I'm sorry to say, atrocious. It described as a work of 'Historical Recreation but the only way it resembles actual history is that there was an event called the Peasant's Revolt that took place in 1385- and even the date for that is wrong. It happened in 1381 not 1385.
The reasons why the Revolt happened (it was basically about tax) are totally misunderstood.
Worse still though, the story was with sloppy historical inaccuracies, inconsistencies and lazy misconceptions. That all peasants were dirt poor, wore rags and were starving. In fact, there were considerable variations in wealth among the Medieval English peasantry, because 'peasant' really just meant someone who lived in the country and wasn't gentry. There were basically two types of peasants: the villeins who were tied to the land and had to pay certain fines and dues for marriage, could not leave etc.
Then there were Free peasants, who held their lands by rent, could buy and sell land, did not have to pay fines and could move around. They could be pretty well off. In this novel though they're all lumped together into one stereotypical and homogeneous mass. They pay rent, yet apparently haven’t the rights of Free Tenants.
We're continually told they're poor as dirt: and yet they all have beds (pretty expensive) and some even their own weaving equipment. We're told that they struggle to feed themselves yet have baskets full of vegetables in their homes.
We're told they'll starve over winter because they can't hunt: why not just slaughter their nice fattened pigs like actual Medieval peasants did? They throw peat on their fires: when they live right next to a flippin' great forest. Also, one of the villager's wives has the name Wilfred. Which is a male name, and I'm pretty sure always has been.
Oh, and the peasant workforce living on Isabel's own land are so incompetent that they don't even know about crop rotation- a system which commonly used by European farmers for nearly 1000 years- and literally relied on her to buy food for them for the winter.
I mean honestly: what kind of farmer sucks so badly at farming that he has to have his landlord give HIM money to buy food?
No. Just no. Medieval peasants only tended to starve if there was a crop failure or natural disaster or something, but for some unknown reason in this novel they're totally dependent on the heroine like- everything.
The most egregious historical inaccuracy though was the claim that it was considered to be a 'mortal sin' and 'heresy' for peasants to try and better themselves and rise through the ranks. NO. IT. WAS. NOT. There are actual historical examples of peasants who did just that: rising to gentry within a generation or two through advantageous marriages or buying land.
It’s a total misunderstanding and oversimplification of Medieval religion and social attitudes: and honestly, I think Catholics would take issue at such an interpretation of what constitutes Mortal Sin.
I think authors ought to make some effort to acquaint themselves with these things before writing novels set in the Middle Ages.
Also: if you're going to write battle scenes, please acquaint yourselves with weaponry and tactics from the period. I'll grant that most of the details were right: but there were a couple of silly errors that really let the side down.
Like expensive and heavy weapons breaking after a single use (as if they were made of plastic or something), and just being left. Two minutes research on Google tells me that Pikes, a weapon mentioned in this novel, were spears on poles that could be up to twenty feet long. Common sense would suggest they couldn't be used on horseback, like the soldiers do here.
I do commend Mrs Hedlund's desire to write clean and wholesome stories for teens, but this really didn't do it for me. Maybe I'm not the right age group, but the whole story just felt rushed. I'd like to see a more historical research as well if the stories are going to be set in a real historical time and place or incorporate actual historical events.
I say this because so many people are likely to take these as an accurate representation of the past or as 'fact'.
September 11, 2018
A Worthy Rebel is book five from Jody Hedlund's An Uncertain Choice series. I have enjoyed the series and this installment does not disappoint. I liked Lady Isabella right from the start. I can not blame her one bit for running away. Which leads her to Cole. I knew instantly of their chemistry. I loved the scenes when they were together.
I give A Worthy Rebel four and a half stars. I highly recommend this beautiful story.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I give A Worthy Rebel four and a half stars. I highly recommend this beautiful story.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
January 14, 2019
This is my favorite book of Jody's thus far!! I really loved A Daring Sacrifice and didn't think anything could beat it, but this book proved me wrong. Although totally different plot from A Daring Sacrifice, I have to say—it's the best!! Colin (A Daring Sacrifice) is very flirty and rich, while Cole (A Worthy Rebel) was level-headed, hardworking, and all-round a worthy rebel. Even though I liked the plot better in this book, I wish it had more of an ending. It felt like I'm in this paradise and then POP! it's over...the characters deserved more than that. Amazing book, and the characters were realistic! Already excited for the next one and am anticipating to see who's story Jody will share next!!
April 11, 2023
I could not put this book down once beginning! Izzy's story was amazing, as were the other characters. What a beautiful ending to a most wonderful series! Due to descriptions of torture, parents please read before sharing with your older teens. I was able to read a copy of this book via Overdrive, but it did not in any way affect my review. All opinions are my own.
September 21, 2018
A great ending to the series although it definitely can be read as a stand-alone. I love the chemistry between Cole and Izzy. I love that Izzy found what she was meant to do and that she had the courage to do it!
August 24, 2019
The story/characters were as good as the others in the series, however, I particularly loved that the author dealt with comparison. The main character felt inadequate to face her life because her sister was so much better than her (in her mind), yet as the story progressed, she realized that she needed to be who she was and find ways to solve her problems that fit into her strengths, not her sister's. What a wonderful message!
August 30, 2018
Remember Aesop's Fables? Stories like "The Tortoise and the Hare" that teach a moral lesson? That's what Jody Hedlund's "An Uncertain Choice" series reminds me of. I mean that in the best way: These stories all teach moral lessons, but they're written in such a way that the reader may not even consciously realize there's anything beyond a love story being presented.
A Worthy Rebel contains themes of being the best version of yourself (not trying to be someone else), guarding your affections, treating everyone with respect, and standing up for what's right even when it's difficult. Plus, there's an amazing love story 😍.
Cole and Izzy are both highly flawed characters, yet they grow and change throughout the story. Their attraction is immediate, but their love develops in a slow, respectful manner ... yet it also feels entirely swoon-worthy! Of all of the couples in this series, they have perhaps the most barriers to surmount, thanks to the class system; I appreciated that not everyone was in favor of their relationship because of this, as it lent an authenticity to the story. (I also wanted to shake some 21st century sense into a couple characters, but if we're talking about realism, that would not be it!)
Though this is the fifth (and final) book in the series, you can read it without having first read any of the other novels. Some characters from previous novels do show up in minor roles, but not in any way that would diminish your enjoyment of this book if this is your first exposure to the series.
A Worthy Rebel is a wonderful book that I highly recommend for teens ... and for those of us who left our teen years behind long ago. 5 stars.
Note: There is some violence in the book. It's not graphic, but some of it involves children. If you're especially sensitive to violence, beware.
Disclosure of material connection: I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
A Worthy Rebel contains themes of being the best version of yourself (not trying to be someone else), guarding your affections, treating everyone with respect, and standing up for what's right even when it's difficult. Plus, there's an amazing love story 😍.
Cole and Izzy are both highly flawed characters, yet they grow and change throughout the story. Their attraction is immediate, but their love develops in a slow, respectful manner ... yet it also feels entirely swoon-worthy! Of all of the couples in this series, they have perhaps the most barriers to surmount, thanks to the class system; I appreciated that not everyone was in favor of their relationship because of this, as it lent an authenticity to the story. (I also wanted to shake some 21st century sense into a couple characters, but if we're talking about realism, that would not be it!)
Though this is the fifth (and final) book in the series, you can read it without having first read any of the other novels. Some characters from previous novels do show up in minor roles, but not in any way that would diminish your enjoyment of this book if this is your first exposure to the series.
A Worthy Rebel is a wonderful book that I highly recommend for teens ... and for those of us who left our teen years behind long ago. 5 stars.
Note: There is some violence in the book. It's not graphic, but some of it involves children. If you're especially sensitive to violence, beware.
Disclosure of material connection: I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
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