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The Fairest Maidens #1
Beholden
In a land where being the fairest maiden is a curse . . .
A beautiful noblewoman with a terrible secret, and a prince subjected to slavery.
Upon the death of her wealthy father, Lady Gabriella is condemned to work in Warwick’s gem mine. As she struggles to survive the dangerous conditions, her kindness and beauty shine as brightly as the jewels the slaves excavate. While laboring, Gabriella plots how to avenge her father’s death and stop Queen Margery’s cruelty.
Prince Vilmar of Scania enslaves himself in Warwick’s gem mine as part of a royal test to prove himself the most worthy of three brothers to become the king’s successor. Amidst the hardships, he doesn’t anticipate his growing compassion for the other slaves, especially tenderhearted Gabriella.
As the annual summer ball looms nearer, Gabriella sets into motion her plan to end Queen Margery’s evil. When Vilmar learns of Gabriella’s intentions, he resolves to come to her aid and fight against Warwick’s queen. But doing so may require him to give up his chance of becoming Scania’s next king, perhaps even cost him his life.
The real Cinderella story.
The Fairest Maidens
Book 1: Beholden (Sept 2020)
Book 2: Beguiled (Oct 2020)
Book 3: Besotted (Nov 2020)
A beautiful noblewoman with a terrible secret, and a prince subjected to slavery.
Upon the death of her wealthy father, Lady Gabriella is condemned to work in Warwick’s gem mine. As she struggles to survive the dangerous conditions, her kindness and beauty shine as brightly as the jewels the slaves excavate. While laboring, Gabriella plots how to avenge her father’s death and stop Queen Margery’s cruelty.
Prince Vilmar of Scania enslaves himself in Warwick’s gem mine as part of a royal test to prove himself the most worthy of three brothers to become the king’s successor. Amidst the hardships, he doesn’t anticipate his growing compassion for the other slaves, especially tenderhearted Gabriella.
As the annual summer ball looms nearer, Gabriella sets into motion her plan to end Queen Margery’s evil. When Vilmar learns of Gabriella’s intentions, he resolves to come to her aid and fight against Warwick’s queen. But doing so may require him to give up his chance of becoming Scania’s next king, perhaps even cost him his life.
The real Cinderella story.
The Fairest Maidens
Book 1: Beholden (Sept 2020)
Book 2: Beguiled (Oct 2020)
Book 3: Besotted (Nov 2020)
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2020
273 people are currently reading
1912 people want to read
About the author
Jody Hedlund
104 books4,717 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 166 reviews
September 25, 2020
“Beholden” by Jody Hedlund is the first book in the “Fairest Maidens” trilogy. It is related to Ms. Hedlund’s “Lost Princesses” trilogy (all of which I have read and loved). This series is almost like a prequel to the “Lost Princesses.” The newest installment can be read as a standalone.
“Beholden” is a Cinderella retelling, with its own unique voice and a fresh spin on the original story. Gabriella, or Gabi, is our heroine with a heart like gold and bravery to match. Gabi tries to practice kindness, even though she has lost everything and is forced to be a slave in a mine, doing manual labor because of the Evil Queen. Even when in a horrific situation, she focuses on others and does not lose heart. I often find “Cinderella” characters one dimensional, but Ms. Hedlund writes Gabi as a much more complex and relatable heroine. Gabi has had so much taken away from her by the Evil Queen. Will she let her need for revenge or kindness win?
Vilmar is the hero of the story. He must go through a Testing to prove himself worthy to be the next king. He works undercover in a mine, where he meets Gabi, and learns to be a slave to others. As Vilmar becomes more and more involved and invested in the plights of Gabi and the townspeople, he starts to realize maybe there are things more important than his Testing and becoming king. Will he give it all up to help others?
This story reads like a Disney movie. I could picture the events in my head as they played out. I especially love the ending, which has such a beautiful message! I will let you read it for yourself. Fans of Melanie Dickerson, fairy tale retellings and happily ever afters will love this book!
Content: This is a clean read. The only content is a brief reference to men drinking and gambling.
Rating: I give this book 5 stars.
I want to thank Jody Hedlund and Northern Lights Press for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
“Beholden” is a Cinderella retelling, with its own unique voice and a fresh spin on the original story. Gabriella, or Gabi, is our heroine with a heart like gold and bravery to match. Gabi tries to practice kindness, even though she has lost everything and is forced to be a slave in a mine, doing manual labor because of the Evil Queen. Even when in a horrific situation, she focuses on others and does not lose heart. I often find “Cinderella” characters one dimensional, but Ms. Hedlund writes Gabi as a much more complex and relatable heroine. Gabi has had so much taken away from her by the Evil Queen. Will she let her need for revenge or kindness win?
Vilmar is the hero of the story. He must go through a Testing to prove himself worthy to be the next king. He works undercover in a mine, where he meets Gabi, and learns to be a slave to others. As Vilmar becomes more and more involved and invested in the plights of Gabi and the townspeople, he starts to realize maybe there are things more important than his Testing and becoming king. Will he give it all up to help others?
This story reads like a Disney movie. I could picture the events in my head as they played out. I especially love the ending, which has such a beautiful message! I will let you read it for yourself. Fans of Melanie Dickerson, fairy tale retellings and happily ever afters will love this book!
Content: This is a clean read. The only content is a brief reference to men drinking and gambling.
Rating: I give this book 5 stars.
I want to thank Jody Hedlund and Northern Lights Press for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
September 22, 2020
‘Slay your enemies with the greatest weapon of all: kindness.’
I love, love, love Jody Hedlund’s medieval stories! She truly excels here, and though this genre is young adult, they are totally interesting to this adult. Each book in this series, releasing in September, October, and November, is based on a popular fairy tale. This is is the real Cinderella story. It will seriously hold your interest all the way through. I am an adult who has never tired if fairy tales.
* My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. The opinion here is my own.
I love, love, love Jody Hedlund’s medieval stories! She truly excels here, and though this genre is young adult, they are totally interesting to this adult. Each book in this series, releasing in September, October, and November, is based on a popular fairy tale. This is is the real Cinderella story. It will seriously hold your interest all the way through. I am an adult who has never tired if fairy tales.
* My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. The opinion here is my own.
August 21, 2022
Have I fangirled about Jody Hedlund enough? No, not quite.
Her YA books are so on spot in so many ways! I can't get enough of them!! The beautiful themes that this age category needs so bad are perfectly crafted in impeccable ways! And the characters... Ahh!! I can never say enough about them.
Beholden was a wonderful story with action, fun characters, and heart break moments. Here you will learn the true meaning of being a "slave to all". *Sigh* Such beauty.
Her YA books are so on spot in so many ways! I can't get enough of them!! The beautiful themes that this age category needs so bad are perfectly crafted in impeccable ways! And the characters... Ahh!! I can never say enough about them.
Beholden was a wonderful story with action, fun characters, and heart break moments. Here you will learn the true meaning of being a "slave to all". *Sigh* Such beauty.
October 6, 2020
Two things I can't resist:
1. A medieval YA series written by Jodi Hedlund
2. Fairy tale retellings
This book happens to be both. I loved it, the plot was amazing, it almost felt like three separate books with the way it unfolded. One a romance, one a fairy tale, and one a medieval adventure. Something I like so much about Hedlund's books is her supporting cast. Those that know me know that I'm a sucker for side characters. And the ones in this book were particularly fun and interesting.
The world crafted in this book is very deep and full of lore including alchemy and a berserker named Grendel who gave me Beowulf vibes. All in all this is a must read for fans of clean ya romance, medieval adventure, and fairy tales and folk lore.
I received a copy of this book from the author, all opinions, however, are my own.
1. A medieval YA series written by Jodi Hedlund
2. Fairy tale retellings
This book happens to be both. I loved it, the plot was amazing, it almost felt like three separate books with the way it unfolded. One a romance, one a fairy tale, and one a medieval adventure. Something I like so much about Hedlund's books is her supporting cast. Those that know me know that I'm a sucker for side characters. And the ones in this book were particularly fun and interesting.
The world crafted in this book is very deep and full of lore including alchemy and a berserker named Grendel who gave me Beowulf vibes. All in all this is a must read for fans of clean ya romance, medieval adventure, and fairy tales and folk lore.
I received a copy of this book from the author, all opinions, however, are my own.
September 22, 2020
"So if ye be one of the lucky ones who finds a jewel amidst the rubble, then ye best not be squandering your treasure."
Oh, how I love Jody Hedlund's YA medieval stories. And this book is another example of her skill as a storyteller. Beautifully written, emotionally engaging, filled with action and anticipation, Beholden will satisfy every reader as Vilmar, one of the princes of Scania, ventures on a six-month journey of Testing to prove himself worthy of the crown. Sent to a gem mine in Warwick as a slave, he meets a noblewoman named Gabriella who has been sent to the underground mine as a slave on a minor infraction. Readers who loved The Lost Princesses series will be delighted to be taken back to Warwick and Mercia during the time when evil Queen Margery ruled Warwick and Princess Aurora is on the run after the death of her mother Queen Leandra of Mercia.
Since the story is told through the eyes of Vilmar and Gabrilella, it's easy to fall in love with them and cheer them on as they befriend one another. Vilmar's sense of honor, justice, and kindness is swoon-worthy even if he starts out somewhat proud and self-reliant. His Testing anthem of 'be slave to all' guides his growth throughout the book. Gabriella is one of the fairest maidens in the land, made more beautiful by her unfailing kindness, gentleness, self-sacrifice and compassion. Though kindness rules her heart, she plans to exact revenge on the evil queen responsible for her father's death. There is a horrifying secret to how the queen continues to extract her gems from the earth, a monster that needs an yearly sacrifice, nail-biting action and suspense as Vilmar fights to save Gabriella from herself, love that continues to sacrifice no matter the cost, and a gasp-worthy ending from Queen Margery's point of view that sets us up for the next book. YA medieval fiction doesn't get better than this.
Anyone who enjoys medieval fiction would absolutely love this book. I am waiting anxiously for the next books to release!
I received a copy of the book from the publisher/author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Oh, how I love Jody Hedlund's YA medieval stories. And this book is another example of her skill as a storyteller. Beautifully written, emotionally engaging, filled with action and anticipation, Beholden will satisfy every reader as Vilmar, one of the princes of Scania, ventures on a six-month journey of Testing to prove himself worthy of the crown. Sent to a gem mine in Warwick as a slave, he meets a noblewoman named Gabriella who has been sent to the underground mine as a slave on a minor infraction. Readers who loved The Lost Princesses series will be delighted to be taken back to Warwick and Mercia during the time when evil Queen Margery ruled Warwick and Princess Aurora is on the run after the death of her mother Queen Leandra of Mercia.
Since the story is told through the eyes of Vilmar and Gabrilella, it's easy to fall in love with them and cheer them on as they befriend one another. Vilmar's sense of honor, justice, and kindness is swoon-worthy even if he starts out somewhat proud and self-reliant. His Testing anthem of 'be slave to all' guides his growth throughout the book. Gabriella is one of the fairest maidens in the land, made more beautiful by her unfailing kindness, gentleness, self-sacrifice and compassion. Though kindness rules her heart, she plans to exact revenge on the evil queen responsible for her father's death. There is a horrifying secret to how the queen continues to extract her gems from the earth, a monster that needs an yearly sacrifice, nail-biting action and suspense as Vilmar fights to save Gabriella from herself, love that continues to sacrifice no matter the cost, and a gasp-worthy ending from Queen Margery's point of view that sets us up for the next book. YA medieval fiction doesn't get better than this.
Anyone who enjoys medieval fiction would absolutely love this book. I am waiting anxiously for the next books to release!
I received a copy of the book from the publisher/author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
January 4, 2022
This truly is the real Cinderella story.
July 4, 2023
wow wow wow
very impressed with this series so far
4.5
very impressed with this series so far
4.5
September 13, 2020
A handsome prince, a beautiful young woman, and an evil Queen are all featured in this story and I couldn't put it down! This new book by Jody Hedlund is labeled as young adult fiction but this shouldn't be a deterrent to older readers because Beholden is enjoyable reading for many different age groups! I grew up loving the story of Cinderella being saved from her wicked stepmother and step sisters by Prince Charming and Beholden is a play on this tale. This time, however, Gabriella is the young woman suffering mistreatment from her stepmother and instead of being forced to be a house servant, she is forced to slave away in the gem mines at Gemstone Mountain. Her mistreatment is often horrifying and Hedlund's description of some of the working conditions truly made me grateful for the life that I've enjoyed! When Gabriella meets Vilmar, another slave working in the mines, it appears that relief may be on the way but Vilmar is hiding a secret. Will Gabriella be rescued from further harm? Can she ever forgive Vilmar once she learns his secret?
One reason that I enjoy Hedlund's books is that she often includes inspirational messages and Beholden is certainly no exception. There are many references to kindness throughout this story and Gabriella displays it time and time again. Yes, it's easy to give kindness to those who've been good to you but what about someone who intends to harm you? Extremely hard to do, but Gabriella tries to live as her late father had always taught her. There is also the suggestion of learning to be a true servant and to be willing to sacrifice for others. Isn't this what we all need to work for?
Intriguing characters and a plot filled with danger, adventure, and sweet romance... all of these elements together make this an exciting and entertaining story. Jody Hedlund completely captivated me with Beholden and I'm eager to see what is ahead in book two of The Fairest Maidens series.
I voluntarily accepted a copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
One reason that I enjoy Hedlund's books is that she often includes inspirational messages and Beholden is certainly no exception. There are many references to kindness throughout this story and Gabriella displays it time and time again. Yes, it's easy to give kindness to those who've been good to you but what about someone who intends to harm you? Extremely hard to do, but Gabriella tries to live as her late father had always taught her. There is also the suggestion of learning to be a true servant and to be willing to sacrifice for others. Isn't this what we all need to work for?
Intriguing characters and a plot filled with danger, adventure, and sweet romance... all of these elements together make this an exciting and entertaining story. Jody Hedlund completely captivated me with Beholden and I'm eager to see what is ahead in book two of The Fairest Maidens series.
I voluntarily accepted a copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
May 23, 2021
Enchanting Story!
I've heard about this book and series, but never picked up until recently. Now I wished I'd read it sooner.
This is an enchanting story about love, honor, friendship, loyalty, and justice. It's also a story about righting wrongs and conquering evil.
An author who can create a wonderful world that captures your mind and takes you on a journey into the unknown is an author I will read more from. Jody Headline is such an author.
This story had wonderful word pictures and left me with tons of feelings.
I'm now going to have to pick up the next books in the series, to find out the whole story!
If you like fairytales, stories with kings, queens, princes, and princesses, then you will like this story.
Oh, and if you like stories where good versus evil, then this is also a book for you.
I highly recommend you pick it up!
I've heard about this book and series, but never picked up until recently. Now I wished I'd read it sooner.
This is an enchanting story about love, honor, friendship, loyalty, and justice. It's also a story about righting wrongs and conquering evil.
An author who can create a wonderful world that captures your mind and takes you on a journey into the unknown is an author I will read more from. Jody Headline is such an author.
This story had wonderful word pictures and left me with tons of feelings.
I'm now going to have to pick up the next books in the series, to find out the whole story!
If you like fairytales, stories with kings, queens, princes, and princesses, then you will like this story.
Oh, and if you like stories where good versus evil, then this is also a book for you.
I highly recommend you pick it up!
November 6, 2020
I am not sure why but this book bugged me in many ways. I knew that it was a fairy tale retelling and would be fanciful. I just got pretty irritated how easy everything was for these characters. You expect that in Hedlunds YA books will not have a lot of stressful things in it. They normally do have Christianity in them. This book just had a formulaic feeling and was just over the top silly. The characters were not deep or developed. It is very light and YA in feel. Just didn't buy it and don't want to read the next. I did finish, the storyline was good, it was a great idea.
July 28, 2021
Wow! The beginning of another great series with a Cinderella twist.
September 29, 2020
A brand new trilogy set in the same universe as Ms. Hedlund's previous The Lost Princesses Trilogy.
A fresh re-telling of Cinderella, with a courageous and kind-hearted heroine. Lady Gabriella has been sentenced to Queen Margery's jewel mines, but all it not as it appears, can Gabriella end the barbaric alchemy that keeps them enslaved?
An engaging new fairy-tale, with a brave heroine and worthy prince. I loved how this book sets the stage for the future books in the series, while also being a satisfying read all on its own. Gabriella is compassionate with a warrior's heart for truth. Vilmar is honorable, and I admired how he does the right thing, even after counting the cost. Both he and Gabriella are natural leaders who care about others, and are willing to sacrifice themselves for something greater.
This book has a little more magic or alchemy (regarded as evil) than previous books, as well as a more parallel fairy tale correlation, which I thought was fun as I love a good fairy tale retelling. Romantic, exciting, with characters with strong faith. I also liked how the author took into account the setting and used fitting vocabulary to make this story some alive.
An entertaining fresh Cinderella retelling, fast-paced, with strong themes of friendship, truth, honor, and sacrifice. I'm excited to continue this series, and find out what happens next!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A fresh re-telling of Cinderella, with a courageous and kind-hearted heroine. Lady Gabriella has been sentenced to Queen Margery's jewel mines, but all it not as it appears, can Gabriella end the barbaric alchemy that keeps them enslaved?
An engaging new fairy-tale, with a brave heroine and worthy prince. I loved how this book sets the stage for the future books in the series, while also being a satisfying read all on its own. Gabriella is compassionate with a warrior's heart for truth. Vilmar is honorable, and I admired how he does the right thing, even after counting the cost. Both he and Gabriella are natural leaders who care about others, and are willing to sacrifice themselves for something greater.
This book has a little more magic or alchemy (regarded as evil) than previous books, as well as a more parallel fairy tale correlation, which I thought was fun as I love a good fairy tale retelling. Romantic, exciting, with characters with strong faith. I also liked how the author took into account the setting and used fitting vocabulary to make this story some alive.
An entertaining fresh Cinderella retelling, fast-paced, with strong themes of friendship, truth, honor, and sacrifice. I'm excited to continue this series, and find out what happens next!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 8, 2020
I was so excited for The Fairest Maidens and Beholden does not disappoint! Beholden is the first book in Jody Hedlund’s new teen series, The Fairest Maidens! I couldn't wait to see how Ms. Hedlund made Cinderella her own story and it was as thrilling as I thought it would be.
Beholden, sets the scene for a new teen series, which is set before the Lost Princesses series. Beholden features the second oldest prince, Vilmar, as he competes in the testing for the right to the throne of Scania. In order to complete his testing he must learn what it means to be a servant of all, but is he willing to lose the testing in order to save the woman he loves and the people he has come to admire?
Vilmar finds himself a slave, serving the evil queen Margery as she sends her subjects to mine for gems. As he labors alongside the other prisoners of the queens’ he finds himself seeing that he has been blessed with much. I liked Vilmar’s character and his growth as he worked alongside the other slaves. He was a kind man, but he had to learn what it meant to serve others.
Gabriella was so cool. Although she was a lady, she cared for others and she was kind. Gabriella had been changed for stealing and so she was sent to the mines, where she worked. She had a secret that would change everything and she knew that she needed to fight to save others. I loved how Gabriella loved hard and that her beauty was more than just on the outside.
Gabriella was so sweet and everyone could see her kindness. She was loved by all, even the guards. However, Gabriella had her own demons to work through. She needed to learn how to forgive and how to not let bitterness eat her up. She had been taught by her father to be kind and love others, but working in the mines could change a person.
I loved Gabriella and Vilmar’s love story. It was a gradual thing and so sweet. They truly cared about each other and learned how to put each other first. I adored the side characters, Curly was a sweetheart. I really liked how he came off as harsh and mean, but he was actually kind and a big teddy bear.
There were so many points in the book where I didn’t know what would happen. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t put Beholden down. It was the perfect blend of suspense, adventure, and love. It was a Cinderella story like I have never read before.
There were so many quotes that I loved from this book. But one of my favorite votes was “If someone is in need, ‘tis better to try to help, even if you fall, then never to try at all.” This quote reminded me how important helping others was. Another quote I loved was “Kindness is a commodity one can never use up.” I recalled more of my father’s advice. “And kindness is a commodity that will always be in demand.” This quote was so important to the story and reminds me how being kind of always necessary.
This was a great book and a great start to a new series! I loved this book and I adored the characters! I am so excited for the next books and so happy that I only have to wait a month for Beguiled. If you love adventure, romance, and a wonderful story then you need to read this book. Beholden is a new look at Cinderella and it was amazing! I would definitely recommend Beholden!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Beholden, sets the scene for a new teen series, which is set before the Lost Princesses series. Beholden features the second oldest prince, Vilmar, as he competes in the testing for the right to the throne of Scania. In order to complete his testing he must learn what it means to be a servant of all, but is he willing to lose the testing in order to save the woman he loves and the people he has come to admire?
Vilmar finds himself a slave, serving the evil queen Margery as she sends her subjects to mine for gems. As he labors alongside the other prisoners of the queens’ he finds himself seeing that he has been blessed with much. I liked Vilmar’s character and his growth as he worked alongside the other slaves. He was a kind man, but he had to learn what it meant to serve others.
Gabriella was so cool. Although she was a lady, she cared for others and she was kind. Gabriella had been changed for stealing and so she was sent to the mines, where she worked. She had a secret that would change everything and she knew that she needed to fight to save others. I loved how Gabriella loved hard and that her beauty was more than just on the outside.
Gabriella was so sweet and everyone could see her kindness. She was loved by all, even the guards. However, Gabriella had her own demons to work through. She needed to learn how to forgive and how to not let bitterness eat her up. She had been taught by her father to be kind and love others, but working in the mines could change a person.
I loved Gabriella and Vilmar’s love story. It was a gradual thing and so sweet. They truly cared about each other and learned how to put each other first. I adored the side characters, Curly was a sweetheart. I really liked how he came off as harsh and mean, but he was actually kind and a big teddy bear.
There were so many points in the book where I didn’t know what would happen. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t put Beholden down. It was the perfect blend of suspense, adventure, and love. It was a Cinderella story like I have never read before.
There were so many quotes that I loved from this book. But one of my favorite votes was “If someone is in need, ‘tis better to try to help, even if you fall, then never to try at all.” This quote reminded me how important helping others was. Another quote I loved was “Kindness is a commodity one can never use up.” I recalled more of my father’s advice. “And kindness is a commodity that will always be in demand.” This quote was so important to the story and reminds me how being kind of always necessary.
This was a great book and a great start to a new series! I loved this book and I adored the characters! I am so excited for the next books and so happy that I only have to wait a month for Beguiled. If you love adventure, romance, and a wonderful story then you need to read this book. Beholden is a new look at Cinderella and it was amazing! I would definitely recommend Beholden!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
August 13, 2022
I went through most of this book thinking it would be 4 stars. The first half was slow and honestly kind of boring. The first several chapters, one would end after having like a pivotal scene of conversation and the next chapter would pick up with something like “two weeks after this…” and then another scene would start, and so on. I was somewhat annoyed by this. We didn’t really get to see them fall in love because of this, because their feeling were obviously developing during those weeks the reader is not privy to. So where we kept picking up, we’re seeing them battling these feelings in their heads and trying to deny it, and telling us as the readers that they did like each other, just because of their separate lives and reasons they couldn’t be together.
But once this book picked up? Oh. My. WORD! It was so good! It had me on the edge of my seat! I was at a point where I wanted to binge the last 100 pages in one go, but I also wanted to close my eyes so I couldn’t see what was happening! 😅 and the Cinderella aspect of it was done really well too! While it might not be what you would expect from a Cinderella retelling, it worked really well! I loved it!
I am so glad I bought all three books at once, because I am definitely going to go right on to book two and just binge this series!!
The only thing I did not care for, is that the brothers all have long hair😐🤦🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️
But once this book picked up? Oh. My. WORD! It was so good! It had me on the edge of my seat! I was at a point where I wanted to binge the last 100 pages in one go, but I also wanted to close my eyes so I couldn’t see what was happening! 😅 and the Cinderella aspect of it was done really well too! While it might not be what you would expect from a Cinderella retelling, it worked really well! I loved it!
I am so glad I bought all three books at once, because I am definitely going to go right on to book two and just binge this series!!
The only thing I did not care for, is that the brothers all have long hair😐🤦🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️
September 19, 2020
Jody Hedlund never fails to delight with her stories. Beholden is no exception. I love the imagery and language she uses. She paints beautiful word pictures. I also enjoy the plot. She takes her characters on fantastic adventures with plenty of action. The theme of this book is revenge, but at what cost? Also, the idea of do you truly know your motives? Both Gabi and Vilmar are strong people but they are also willing to change and grow. I love this book and am anxiously awaiting the next two! So grab your hot chocolate and a comfy blanket, then settle in for a delightful read!
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
March 17, 2021
This is the first book I’ve read if Jody Hedlund’s and I am a fan. I enjoyed the story and heroism and showing of kindness to others. The real world could use more kindness like this story portrays.
October 1, 2020
Beholden by Jody Hedlund is an exciting read. It's similar to Disney's Cinderalla tale. However, the heroine is much stronger than that of Cinderella. Gabriella is a kind, caring, and pretty just like any other princess. Her father dies and the evil Queen enslaves Gabriella. Gabriella lost the life she once knew and yet she is still a kind hearted person. However, she is plotting to take back what is hers and to put a stop to the evil queen, her step-mother. Low and behold, prince charming comes. The hero put himself into a situation and it just get stickier when he meets Gabriella. There's attraction and plenty of action to keep my full attention. Some similarities and yet many differences. It's much more than just a fairy tale. Overall, I loved reading this new book. I look forward to reading more by Jody Hedlund in the future.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
September 22, 2020
My favorite fairy tale has always been Cinderella, so I was very excited to read an advance copy of BEHOLDEN to see what Jody Hedlund’s spin would be. Oh my. She has kicked off her new YA series with a medieval tale that captured my attention from the first sentence and held it until the last word. Vilmar and Gabi are all that a hero and heroine should be. Both are strong, loyal, and willing to sacrifice everything for others. This story is so good and so well written I forgot I was reading a YA book. It isn’t light or silly. The characters face hard things and tackle them head on. As I was reading, the skillful writing allowed the story to play out as a movie in my head which made it even easier to get into. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. I am planning to assign them to my daughters to read and discuss as part of their literature class. I personally would recommend this for ages 14 and up.
I received an advance copy and all opinions are my own.
I received an advance copy and all opinions are my own.
September 21, 2020
The Fairest Maidens is Author Jody Hedlund’s new Young Adult Series. Book One, Beholden, is based on the story of Cinderella. I considered it to be a very enjoyable retelling. Nothing surpasses a damsel-in-distress with a knight-in-shining armor coming to the rescue. Characters Prince Vilmar of Scania and Lady Gabriella exhibit strength, courage, and the desire to do the right thing. Author Jody Hedlund’s Young Adult series are inspirational as well as gratifying for those of us who are no longer Young Adults as well as being suitable for Young Adults. As Prince Vilmar and Gabi learn valuable life lessons, you will find yourself cheering for them! I am very excited for the next book in this enchanting series, Beguiled. Like me, you will not want to miss any of them!
I received a copy from the author. The opinions are my own.
I received a copy from the author. The opinions are my own.
May 22, 2020
The setting of the story is in medieval times with kings, queens, knights, and ladies. The hero is Prince Vilmar, but he is not recognized as a prince through most of the story as he works alongside the slaves in the mine pits of Gemstone Mountain. Lady Gabriella, the heroine, has already been there for months before Vilmar arrives. The reasons they are there are very different but nevertheless, they are slaving away with the others who are digging for valuable gems for the queen. Gabriella has such a gentle, caring nature and spends much of her time in the evenings looking after the needs of those who are sick and injured. She has a single-minded goal of bringing an end to a horrible practice started a few years earlier by the queen that enables the continuation of the slave mine. You will have to read the book to learn what this is, because I do not wish to give away too much of the story here. Prince Vilmar has led everyone to believe he displeased his father and was sent to work in the mines for a period of time. To tell the real reason, he would have to divulge more information about who he is than he is allowed to share. In turn, that could lead to other undesirable consequences. After being there for several weeks, he realizes that Gabriella has been demonstrating through her treatment of others what he needs to put into practice if he hopes to achieve his goals. I appreciate the lessons taught by Gabriella and Vilmar. One of the most important lessons is that they continued to learn from others throughout the story. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
October 25, 2020
What a great start to an intriguing series! I’m so glad I took a chance and picked this one up. I really loved how our main characters seized the power of selflessness and used it for good. Not only making themselves better but blessing others. I also loved that there was a reference to how they were becoming more like God but being this way. I know I’m constantly trying to be more like my Savior. “Trying” being the important word here. 😉❤️
It’s a good book! I look forward to book two!
It’s a good book! I look forward to book two!
September 25, 2020
Beholden, by Jody Hedlund, is the first book in The Fairest Maidens series. This young adult novel is a riveting medieval, fairytale, fantasy adventure enriched with a sprinkling of classic Cinderella elements. Abounding with captivating moments of danger, intrigue, courage, faith, and romance, this novel is utterly entertaining.
Genuinely talented at crafting stories that are richly detailed and descriptive, Ms. Hedlund has penned an imaginative book that thrills and inspires from beginning to end. Beautifully written in the first person perspectives of the two main characters, this novel is very compelling. Interesting, complex characters who are sincere, honorable, and steadfast ensure that this book is relevant and truly irresistible. Throughout the novel, contrasting elements of peril and bravery, mystery and discovery, love and loss, and greed and self-sacrifice, enhance the plot of this story making it thoroughly moving and satisfying. Themes of kindness, selflessness, and destiny add purpose to this tale making it significant and edifying.
Beholden is certainly a young adult novel that can easily be appreciated by both teens and adults. Exciting and memorable, this novel is worthwhile, clean, and absolutely enjoyable. I eagerly recommend it to all readers.
*I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
Genuinely talented at crafting stories that are richly detailed and descriptive, Ms. Hedlund has penned an imaginative book that thrills and inspires from beginning to end. Beautifully written in the first person perspectives of the two main characters, this novel is very compelling. Interesting, complex characters who are sincere, honorable, and steadfast ensure that this book is relevant and truly irresistible. Throughout the novel, contrasting elements of peril and bravery, mystery and discovery, love and loss, and greed and self-sacrifice, enhance the plot of this story making it thoroughly moving and satisfying. Themes of kindness, selflessness, and destiny add purpose to this tale making it significant and edifying.
Beholden is certainly a young adult novel that can easily be appreciated by both teens and adults. Exciting and memorable, this novel is worthwhile, clean, and absolutely enjoyable. I eagerly recommend it to all readers.
*I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
September 22, 2020
I loved reading this delightful page-turning story! Adventure, mystery, intrigue, drama, and a sweet romance, this story has something for everyone. I was pulled in right from the first chapter and whisked away into this story. I didn’t want to put my book down for a moment and I certainly was not ready for the story to end! I am eagerly anticipating when the next book releases and I can once again return to Warwick!
Expertly woven into the story are lessons to learn and Biblical truth shared. We are reminded of the importance of giving of ourselves to others and reminded that Jesus himself gave his life, as payment of our sins so that we might have life eternal with Him in heaven.
If you enjoy fast-paced stories with a fairy-tale twist, then this is a book you must not pass up! Do yourself a favor and snag a copy today, maybe even two, so you can share it with a friend. Because I’m certain that you won’t be able to stop talking about this book once you read it!
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions expressed are my own.)
Expertly woven into the story are lessons to learn and Biblical truth shared. We are reminded of the importance of giving of ourselves to others and reminded that Jesus himself gave his life, as payment of our sins so that we might have life eternal with Him in heaven.
If you enjoy fast-paced stories with a fairy-tale twist, then this is a book you must not pass up! Do yourself a favor and snag a copy today, maybe even two, so you can share it with a friend. Because I’m certain that you won’t be able to stop talking about this book once you read it!
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions expressed are my own.)
September 27, 2020
In the Kingdom of Warwick, beauty is a curse to its maidens.
In her newest series, Jody Hedlund puts her own, unique spin on a few well-loved fairy tales, with Beholden giving a fresh take on the Cinderella story. Lady Gabriella lost her father, her home, and her freedom to the whims of a cruel queen. Now she and two loyal servants waste away in Queen Margery’s failing gem mine. Prince Vilmar of Scania wants to prove he deserves his father’s throne more than his brothers. In order to secure his position, he submits to an ancient testing. He willingly enters the mines under a false identity, unsure of the cryptic instructions given to him.
When I learned Jody Hedlund had a new Medieval YA series planned I was thrilled. She has such a way with knights, ladies, and devious monarchs! Beholden is packed with romance, more than enough action and hints of a mystery that will have you longing for the rest of the series. Gabriella struggles with vengeance and the price she’ll have to pay for it. Meanwhile, Vilmar must decide to do what he knows is right even though it goes against what he believes is expected of him. The ending promises to tie into the rest of series and I cannot wait to meet back up with Gabriella and Vilmar, hopefully in Beguiled. I also can’t wait to see if my theory about a certain huntsman is correct! If you enjoy fairytale retellings, then you’ll definitely want to check out The Fairest Maidens. I would recommend this book for fans of Melanie Cellier and Melanie Dickerson.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
In her newest series, Jody Hedlund puts her own, unique spin on a few well-loved fairy tales, with Beholden giving a fresh take on the Cinderella story. Lady Gabriella lost her father, her home, and her freedom to the whims of a cruel queen. Now she and two loyal servants waste away in Queen Margery’s failing gem mine. Prince Vilmar of Scania wants to prove he deserves his father’s throne more than his brothers. In order to secure his position, he submits to an ancient testing. He willingly enters the mines under a false identity, unsure of the cryptic instructions given to him.
When I learned Jody Hedlund had a new Medieval YA series planned I was thrilled. She has such a way with knights, ladies, and devious monarchs! Beholden is packed with romance, more than enough action and hints of a mystery that will have you longing for the rest of the series. Gabriella struggles with vengeance and the price she’ll have to pay for it. Meanwhile, Vilmar must decide to do what he knows is right even though it goes against what he believes is expected of him. The ending promises to tie into the rest of series and I cannot wait to meet back up with Gabriella and Vilmar, hopefully in Beguiled. I also can’t wait to see if my theory about a certain huntsman is correct! If you enjoy fairytale retellings, then you’ll definitely want to check out The Fairest Maidens. I would recommend this book for fans of Melanie Cellier and Melanie Dickerson.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
September 23, 2020
With themes of kindness and selflessness, Beholden gives an enjoyable twist on the Cinderella fairy tale while setting up what is sure to be an engaging series! Gabriella is such a noble heroine, one who is willing to give up her own life in order to save others. And Vilmar, while he has some growing up to do at the beginning, turns into a wonderful hero. This is a romantic and engaging novel that's perfect for older teens and adults, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series! 4-1/2 stars.
Disclosure of material connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure of material connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
September 30, 2020
A great start to Jody's newest YA series. After reading and enjoying her medieval set last year, I knew I didn't want to miss this one. I am happy to say it did not disappoint. I really liked this story that had some Cinderella woven in to the storyline. Gabriella was quite brave and Vilmar was quite the hero himself. Beholden also set the stage nicely for the next two books in the series. I am eager to read them, luckily they release one in October and one in November, so I don't have long to wait, thank goodness. I highly recommend!
I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
September 10, 2020
After reading many of Jody Hedlund’s previous series, I had no doubt that I would love Beholden. Jody’s vivid writing and heartwarming characters have once again captured my heart. My only complaint is that the ending left me so many questions that I can only hope will be answered in the next book in the series!
If you enjoy medieval historical fiction and fairytales, you will want to make sure this book is in your library!
If you enjoy medieval historical fiction and fairytales, you will want to make sure this book is in your library!
November 14, 2020
😍
I can always depend on this author to provide me with an exciting tale of danger and romance. I love her prince/princess/nobility books. This series is a spin off of her last series which I really enjoyed. These books provide that escape I'm looking for. What can be better than a woman who uses kindness as her primary motivator and a strong, brave, kind prince to fight beside her? Not much. 😍 This is a great start to this new series and I cannot wait to read the next book!
I can always depend on this author to provide me with an exciting tale of danger and romance. I love her prince/princess/nobility books. This series is a spin off of her last series which I really enjoyed. These books provide that escape I'm looking for. What can be better than a woman who uses kindness as her primary motivator and a strong, brave, kind prince to fight beside her? Not much. 😍 This is a great start to this new series and I cannot wait to read the next book!
December 28, 2020
Fun, quick YA read. It’s very loosely based on a fairy talle. I did see several plot holes/unrealistic timelines that took away from my enjoyment. So far, I liked her other fantasy series set in this kingdom better.
January 15, 2021
4.5 stars. This is an incredible medieval Cinderella retelling. Gabriella's goodness, Vilmar's change in heart, and their battle with the evil queen make this book an amazing adventure with some dang good clean romance!
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