3.5- What a gorgeous cover! Shielded is a fast-paced, enjoyable fantasy adventure. The story follows Jennesara, a princess who is unknowingly betrothed to a prince in the neighboring kingdom. To save her kingdom, she agrees to fulfill her father’s betrothal agreement. On her journey, her group is brutally attacked and Jen is forced to flee into a magical forest, the Wild. Betrayal and conspiracy infect the kingdom and it becomes clear that Jen’s life is in danger. Jen decides to hide as a servant in the neighboring kingdom. While there, she meets her intended betrothed, his family, and a mysterious group of villains.

Jen is a very brave and daring character, she was one of the main reasons that I felt invested in the story. I would have loved to see more development and explanation of the magic system, including the Wild and Jen’s powers. In terms of the plot, there were areas where things seemed a little too convenient or didn’t make logical sense.

Spoiler

My personal pet peeve was that Jen has a white streak in her hair that immediately would identify her as having magic, and the only solution she has is to hide it in a braid. Can she cut it off, can she dye it, etc? The braid almost failed Jen so many times!

Overall, this was a fast-paced and enjoyable adventure. If you like classic YA tropes, fierce princesses, and adventure, then check out Shielded! While marketed for YA, I would say this is on the younger side of YA or upper middle grade. I will definitely be looking forward to the sequel and seeing how Jen’s adventures continue! Shielded releases on July 21, 2020. Thank you to KayLynn Flanders, Delacorte Press, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.