3.82 AVERAGE

adventurous dark medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
adventurous challenging emotional funny mysterious tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
adventurous emotional mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: N/A
Strong character development: N/A
Loveable characters: N/A
Diverse cast of characters: N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus: N/A
adventurous emotional medium-paced
adventurous challenging fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous emotional mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous challenging emotional inspiring mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I devoured this book in just two sittings—20% yesterday, and I couldn’t stop myself from finishing the rest today. Trial of the Sub Queen plunges you into a harsh dystopian world where survival means submission, strength, and a sharp mind. The setting is brutal and visceral, packed with high-stakes trials, ruthless games, and an undercurrent of danger that never lets up.

At its core, this book blends gritty survival with just the right amount of emotional connection. There’s a compelling love interest and solid friendships that don’t feel like throwaways—they have depth and loyalty that add heart to the story. The twist wasn’t shocking, but it was satisfyingly placed and well executed—it made sense and added momentum to an already tense plot.

If you’re a fan of books where power dynamics, danger, and desire intertwine—especially in a world that demands everything from its characters—this one hits the mark. I’m absolutely continuing the series.
adventurous medium-paced
Strong character development: No

I haven’t read much in the fantasy genre but I couldn’t put this one down. I loved it, despite being skeptical going in. Didn’t love the audiobook narrator, and it was pretty clear what was happening fairly early on, but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the book. As for the writing, occasionally a word choice feels out of place or not quite right, and it can be a bit distracting.