Shielded is a fast-paced, adventurous read with strong characterization and beautiful world building. This was a book I could not put down.
Shielded is one heck of a debut, and I say that in a really good way. I loved this story so much. The world is phenomenal, the magic is unique and interesting, and the characters and relationships are wonderfully constructed. Plus, I loved the epic journey Jennesara went on to get to her destination. The author's writing is breathtaking and a breath of fresh air. I have nothing but absolute praise for this fantasy debut.
The character development for the main character is so well-crafted. Jennesara is easily a likeable and relatable character. She's strong and puts her family and kingdom above anything else. Though she originally refuses the arranged marriage to a neighboring kingdom, she ends up accepting it when her father explains how it will help save her kingdom. She's brave and skilled in sword fighting (I loved the intense fighting scenes), which comes in handy, especially as she finds herself in constant danger with unimaginable magical beings. She's also been hiding a dangerous secret for almost her whole life, a secret that could turn the tides of the war, but also puts her and those she loves in the front lines of danger, which she is not willing to risk. Jennesara is easily the embodiment of what a true heroine should be.
Jennesara isn't the only character I loved. To be honest, I loved almost every character, even the villains (yes, you heard that, there's multiple villains and it's amazing and I'm here for it). I loved how the author included some chapters from the villains' point of view; it allows the reader to see their backstory and understand why they're the villains in this story. It also allowed the reader to see just how cruel each villain could be. Besides the villains, the side characters were amazing additions. I especially loved Chiara and Mari, sisters who would do anything to protect one another and Jennesara. It was beautiful watching all the relationships form.
And the romance is so swoon-worthy. It's kind of (but not entirely) an insta-love story, but it works so well. It felt real and the attraction between Jennesara and her love interest was undeniable. I looked forward to every scene between the two characters; I could not get enough of them (and I'm beyond excited for more of them in book two!). It's the romance like this in fantasy books that I look for - indisputable attraction, an instant yet fierce connection, and one worth protecting.
The world building absolutely blew me away. The world is magnificently crafted and beautifully described. Though this book was action-packed, the author took her time introducing the readers into new parts of the world, which I really liked. It wasn't overwhelming at all and really molded well with the story. And the magic system was so unique. Not everyone is born with magic, mainly those part of the royal line and usually the first born. But what hooked me with the magic is how different it was from most magic systems. I loved the history of the magic and how, by the end of the book, it all came together. This book truly was a sensational read in every way.
Overall, Shielded is easily a favorite read of mine for 2020. It's a strong and remarkable read, which left me feeling so much love for these characters and, of course, left me feeling in need of book two. If you are looking for an epic fantasy journey filled with intense action, believable characterization and strong relationship development, then definitely check out Shielded.
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Shielded: Shielded, Book 1
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Reviews with images
Best Goose Girl retelling!!!!
Taking a page from the Goose Girl, this has everything positive, from loyalty to love of family to love of friends to fighting for what’s right. Jenna is the princess. Her father and brother love her and care for her. You get that sense of love of family right away, so it’s an emotional read all the way through. As in the Goose Girl, she is attacked on her way to marry the unknown prince, and she is betrayed along the way. What makes this book amazing is Jenna is the most skilled fighter and most loyal sister and friend. She loves hard and trusts her instincts. And yes, she had MAGIC! This story was captivating, and most of all a page turner. There is violence, and some kissing but overall a clean read but exceptional story. This is definitely going in my classroom library for my 8th graders!
Top reviews from other countries
Sabrina 🦋
Entrega perfeita e antes do previsto
Reviewed in Brazil on January 21, 2023
Sabrina 🦋
Reviewed in Brazil on January 21, 2023
O tamanho da fonte é perfeita, nem tão grande ou pequena.
Espero gostar do livro.
Comprei em uma promoção em que ele ficou por R$29,00.
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