Hi friends, happy Monday, I hope you’re all doing well. Today I’m posting my review of the first book in the Sunbearer duology by: Aiden Thomas, The Sunbearer Trials.

The Sunbearer Trials by: Aiden Thomas: Every decade, the Sun’s powers need refilling so that the Sol can continue to journey around the sky and keep the Obsidian gods away. When this happens, Sol chooses ten demidioses they deem worthy to compete in the Sunbearer Trials. The winner gains light and life, while the loser must die. Usually they choose Golds, but this year two Jades are chosen, Teo and a thirteen-year-old named Xio. Teo makes it a point to keep Xio safe as they compete in five trials. This was such a fast-paced and exciting novel. There were so many elements happening all at once that left the reader wanting more. It never truly felt confusing because Thomas did a great job of making sure plots were explained and the world was described really well; it was dynamic yet made simple in a good way. The only part that the reader was left, not confused per se, but just had a hard time remembering were some of the secondary characters who were also performing in these trials. Thomas didn’t spend as much time fleshing them out for them to be very memorable, which is ok because they weren’t the focus, but every time they were mentioned the reader had to make a conscious effort to remember who was who. That aside though, this novel was a wild ride that was just so thrilling to read. The plot was one adventure after another. The reader liked that there were spaces between each challenge so that we could get to know the characters better. They were really developed and had the reader invested. Not only was the plot amazing, the characters really shined in this and made the story special. The connections that were formed and the bonds that became stronger were beautiful to read. The passion between them all, whether it was with love or hate, was so strong that it really fueled character motives and plots. The way this ended, the reader did not see that coming. This ended on such a bang and betrayals that has us needing the second book right away. The reader can’t wait to see what’s in store for these characters in the sequel. This novel was so inclusive and well written, definitely highly recommended.