A review by prose_mortem
Trial of the Sun Queen by Nisha J. Tuli

5.0

What a wonderful author! I couldn't put this story down, and I'm picky with my high fae romantasy reads...I cannot believe I have to wait until far into next year for the 2nd installment. Booktok will sometimes steer me wrong, but it made up for it with this rec. I read it in one day! There isn't a single dull moment. For people who want great fantasy worlds, but don't want to endure 1,000 pages with boring povs, this is for you! You know how fantasy books can be really intimidating because you have to learn a big magic system, contend with an inaccessible vocabulary, and then it takes forever to get to the point? This book presents none of those issues and will hook you right from the start. This is very fast-paced, with all of the dialogue having a direct and culminating point... No "pointless" meandering here. =)

The MC/heroine is also a person of color, which is wonderful to see in fantasy books! She is a realistic character with flaws and struggles. There is very much an "I'm different from the other girls" feeling just because of her childhood background, but as she evolves, it is clear that she is not a pick-me. I love how she supports her friends and shows an ability to express empathy and care for others.

Oh, and for those who love this trope, there is totally a Tamlin vibe. You'll know it when you read it. ;)