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

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

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

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

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

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

3.5

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beautiful world building and character progression! It’s a tale as old as time, but never tiring. Princess is more than meets the eye but is forced to hide her true self, especially after the attempted murder on her life. She finds sanctuary in unlikely places and is quite literally swept off her feet on multiple occasions but a very handsome man along her travels, who turns into rescuer, friend, advocate and potentially more. She harnesses her strengths to her advantage and uses her knowledge, instincts and observations to continually prove herself over and over again. It’s when she finally accepts who she is and the truth of her being Princess Jennasara comes to light does she finally get what she always wanted, acceptance and love. She uses both those things to defeat a darkness that looms over her for what feels like centuries, but there’s more that needs to be done and I can’t wait to see what book 2 in the series takes us with Jenna! A great coming of age! Breaking barriers and social norms in this beautiful but dangerous fantasy world. I could not put it down!

This is the best YA fantasy debut from a new author that I have read in a long time! The author's writing style is beautiful without being flowery and I absolutely devoured the book and could not stop. Jenna is an easy heroine to love right from the start. She is loyal and strong and incredibly intuitive. It was great to read about a strong warrior heroine who isn't blood-thirsty or rash. She uses her empathy, logic, and intuition just as much as her skill and strength. The first half of the book is spent building Jenna's world for us and allowing us to get to know her intimately without being distracted by love interests. She was such a likable character and the world was so fascinating, I thoroughly enjoyed it and didn't miss the romance at all. But when the love interest was introduced of course I adored him! I hope the sequel gives us even more insight into his personality. Their relationship was so sweet and natural, and the author does a great job building tension without any need for explicit content. Flanders has a true gift with character building and despite the rapid pacing of the story I felt so attached to each character, even the side characters. Jenna's pure friendship with the Turian princesses was easily my favorite part of the story. I loved the occasional short chapters from the perspectives of the villains that added backstory but still kept them shrouded in mystery. The depiction of the Wild - a labyrinthine forest lulling you until you forget your senses - was so breathtaking that even though I shouldn't, I very much wanted to go there! I cannot wait to get my hands on a beautiful physical copy once it is released - and even more so I am eagerly anticipating the sequel! 
The book did have a few glaring typos in it which I hope are fixed prior to print, but not so many that it lowered the quality.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Perfect book to get me out of my book slump! Shielded was a fast-paced epic journey that caught my focus from the beginning. I loved how the heroine, Jenna, wasn’t just a princess but also a warrior. I loved how badass she was! Overall, a great story!

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

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

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

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

I enjoyed the attempt to do something different with the magic system in the world, but something about the story left me wanting. It struggled to keep my attention at times and I didn't feel quite as gripped as I would have hoped.

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

“Shielded”- 5 out of 5 stars

“Shielded” is the perfect fantasy. KayLynn Flanders created a magical world, a daring  main character, and lovable side characters. I read this book in 3 days and was engrossed in the story the entire time. It was the perfect length- not too long but not too short.
The characters made the story- Princess Jennesara was brave, kind, and a warrior. She was relatable and easy to root for the entire time. Her brother, Ren, was not a huge part of the story but was fun to read as well. I loved Enzo! He cared for his family and Jenna before he even knew who she was- he was lovable (and a new book boyfriend for me;)) Chiara and Mari were sweet and great friends for Jenna in the foreign country of Turia- they were just as lovable as their brother.
The world-building made the story. The descriptions of the Wilds and Turia made me want to visit! I do wish that there was more description on Halendi- Jenna’s home- but what was described was easy to picture. The world of “Shielded” was the perfect fantasy world- understandable and magical all at the same time.
“Shielded” was an easy read (but in a good way!). It was easy to get lost in and easy to devour. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys fantasy and a fun fast story.

Definitely a clean fantasy. There was one kiss at the end, but this would be appropriate for those with younger readers who want fantasy without too much kissing and more mature themes. This was a quick read, but I did enjoy it. I thought the world building was pretty good, and the magic system was interesting. There were a lot of moments that were sweet, and I thought it seems like there was a little bit of insta love though,. Still. I did like this book and would read more from the author in the future. 

Thank you to the author. NetGalley, and Random House children’s for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!

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

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

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

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

Oh and Prince Enzo, a total babe

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