A review by karly_rose_reads
A Trial of Fate by J.E. Larson

adventurous dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

A Trial of Fate by J.E. Larson is the first book in the Valdor series, a epic fantasy romance. This book should be on your radar as a worthwhile read shifter series.

What to expect:
๐Ÿน Fantasy romance
๐Ÿน Incomplete series (4 books)
๐Ÿน 1st person, single POV
๐Ÿน Shifters, fae & other magical creatures
๐Ÿน Plot twists
๐Ÿน Chosen one
๐Ÿน Fated mates
๐Ÿน Found family

Let me start this review with three notes:
๐Ÿ‘‰ I am very impressed that this is the author's debut novel!
๐Ÿ‘‰ There is a lack of content warnings and this book contains torture scenes
๐Ÿ‘‰ I chose to "tandem" read this book using Audible and Kindle Unlimited, and I enjoyed this experience!

A Trial of Fate begins fast and throws your right into the life of our FMC. J.E. Larson chose to begin the story with various scenes that help to add layers of complexity to our FMC ahead of the "meat" of the storyโ€”aka the trials (heads up, these don't occur in this book). It took me a bit to understand what she was trying to do since there is some pretty heavy scenes straight out the gate, but I appreciated these moments later on to build up the FMC.

The world and magic system are easy to follow, in my opinionโ€”I felt like I was in the woods with the FMC in multiple instances. If you've read other fae and shifter books, you'll be able to jump right in.

Our FMC and MMC are lovable, and I'd describe their dynamic as charming. It gives slight instalove vibes, but I didn't mind since this is a slow burn for some light spice.

I plan to continue this series once book 2 is out!

A sincere thank you to J.E. Larson for providing me with an audiobook copy in exchange for an honest review.