And Vilmar, while he has some growing up to do, turns into a wonderful hero. 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. But doing so may require him to give up his chance of becoming Scania’s next king, perhaps even cost him his life. When Vilmar learns of Gabriella’s intentions, he resolves to come to her aid and fight against Warwick’s queen. Amidst the hardships, he doesn’t anticipate his growing compassion for the other slaves, especially tenderhearted Gabriella.Īs the annual summer ball looms nearer, Gabriella sets into motion her plan to end Queen Margery’s evil. 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. While laboring, Gabriella plots how to avenge her father’s death and stop Queen Margery’s cruelty. As she struggles to survive the dangerous conditions, her kindness and beauty shine as brightly as the jewels the slaves excavate. Upon the death of her wealthy father, Lady Gabriella is condemned to work in Warwick’s gem mine. Ī beautiful noblewoman with a terrible secret, and a prince subjected to slavery.

In a land where being the fairest maiden is a curse. Her latest series, which begins with Beholden, offers more of the same. That's why I love Jody Hedlund's medieval YA novels - they feature chaste yet swoony romance, and they always have positive themes. but much of what's popular is more adult than what I'd want the teens I know to read. When Susanna's decision to help an innocent woman no matter the cost crosses with Ben's growing disillusionment with their British rulers, the two find themselves bound together in what quickly becomes a very dangerous fight for justice.Even though I left my teen years behind long ago, I adore YA romance. When family friends introduce him to the Smith family, he's drawn to quick-witted Susanna but knows her family expects her to marry well. A poor country lawyer, he doesn't see how he'll be able to fulfill his promise to make his father proud of him. And she knows when she marries well, she will be able to continue her work with the less fortunate.īen Ross grew up a farmer's son and has nothing to his name but his Harvard education. She's determined to put her status to good use, reaching out to the poor and deprived. Because she's a female, higher learning has been closed to her, but her quick mind and quicker tongue never back down from a challenge.

In 1763 Massachusetts, Susanna Smith has grown up with everything she's ever wanted, except one thing: an education. Jody Hedlund Brings History to Life Like Few Others

Rebellious heart jody hedlund