A Daring Sacrifice

Historical fiction author Jody Hedlund writes her second young adult novel about a fourteenth century young woman living an unconventional life.

In A Daring Sacrifice, Juliana Wessex is the rightful ruler of Wessex. But the current Lord Wessex (her uncle) believes she died three years ago when her father lost his life. Juliana hides in the forest and steals to provide a livelihood for the peasants on her land, impoverished by her uncle’s harsh rule. It is a life filled with risks and danger, and she struggles with the justification of her actions.

When she is forced to flee Wessex after escaping capture, Juliana makes the mistake of trying to rob Colin Goodrich who recognizes Juliana by her red hair. Colin takes her to his castle after she is injured and introduces her as a distant cousin. But her uncle discovers her presence. What lengths will her uncle go to keep Wessex for himself? Who makes the daring sacrifice?

Different fonts indicate Juliana’s and Colin’s point of views. The spiritual element is evident but not heavy-handed; Colin and Juliana ask God’s leading and try to live godly lives, which is especially hard for Juliana since she steals from the nobility.

Filled with descriptive narrative and endearing characters, A Daring Sacrifice is an entertaining read – except for the necessary violence in the fighting scenes. Its believable plot has enough twists in the last third of the book to keep the reader up late!

I loved this follow up to An Uncertain Choice. I think I actually liked this one better and it can definitely be read as a stand alone.

A play on the fairy tale of Robin Hood, Juliana steals from the rich to provide food and shelter to the poor peasants that have become her family since her uncle took over the rule of her family's land and killed her father. I love her tender and fiercely loyal heart toward her "family". She's smart and fast, and a little headstrong but when it comes down to a choice, she'll lay down her life for those she loves.

Lord Collin is wonderful! A knight in shining armor to be sure! ;) Once he realizes that the Cloaked Bandit is Lady Juliana, he's determined to find out why she's in hiding and convince her that not all nobility is bad. He's honorable, charming, and sweet! And also determined to keep Juliana safe even if he has to give his own life to accomplish that.

This book has it all! Lots of sweet romantic sparks, heart pumping danger, victorious battles, sacrificial love, and a satisfying conclusion with a lead into the next book! Yay! :)

*Thanks to BookLook Bloggers for a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to post a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*

AMAZON REVIEW: https://www.amazon.com/review/R2PRUCOSTMUS5H/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=0310749379 // GOODREADS review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1369011096

A charming middle grades or YA Robin Hood adaptation that's more of a romance than adventure, but satisfying for readers of "clean" historical love stories. This novel is book two, but can be read as a stand-alone. The writing flows nicely and the setting is described very well. I will look for this author in the future. Suggested for Jessica Day George fans.

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Jody Hedlund is one of my favorite authors! And I love the idea of the twist on the tale of Robin Hood. A familiar tale that was kept interesting and kept me snared the entire story.