A review by nicolehitchcock
Trials of the Order by S.E. Schaefer

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful mysterious tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Trials of the Order was so good! I received this as an ARC and it’s one of my favorite books that I’ve read recently!  

It’s a heartbreaking tale of growth, loyalty, and betrayal that lingers with you long after the final page. Though it starts out slow paced, it builds into a whirlwind of action and emotion that will leave you fully invested in the story.

It’s easy to fall in love with Varine, a strong heroine whose journey is as frustrating as it is inspiring. I am invested in her character and I hope to see more character development from the next book! 

Take my advice and push through the beginning because boy does it take off midway through! From that moment, the stakes rise, the tension tightens, and the emotion deepens. Schaefer writes a gripping narrative that kept me turning the pages late into the night.

The ending leaves you gasping and yearning for more. Trials of the Order is a must-read for anyone who loves fantasy and strong FMC. Hoping for some spice in book two!