Scan barcode
A review by rorikae
The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas
adventurous
challenging
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas is the start of a unique YA series, steeped in folklore.
The story follows Teo, a Jade semidiós, who is surprisingly chosen to compete in the Sunbearer trials, a trial that fuels the ritual that keeps their world safe. Along with his friend Niya and their new friend Xio, Teo must find a way to win against the gold semidiós that have long been preparing for the trials so that he can save himself and his friends from being sacrificed.
It is clear that Aiden Thomas has put a lot of time and effort into developing the world of this story. Folklore is woven throughout and stands at the heart of the Sunbearer trials. Though the general beats of the main story are relatively normal for YA fantasy, the strong character development and world building help to create a unique story. This first installment sets up an interesting second novel that I think will further develop the world that we have been given a peak into. Aiden Thomas has a gift for creating characters that you quickly and easily come to care for, as well as writing romances that it's easy to root for. If you have enjoyed Aiden Thomas's books in the past or are interested in a YA novel set in an intriguing fantasy world then you should definitely check out the Sunbearer Trials.
The story follows Teo, a Jade semidiós, who is surprisingly chosen to compete in the Sunbearer trials, a trial that fuels the ritual that keeps their world safe. Along with his friend Niya and their new friend Xio, Teo must find a way to win against the gold semidiós that have long been preparing for the trials so that he can save himself and his friends from being sacrificed.
It is clear that Aiden Thomas has put a lot of time and effort into developing the world of this story. Folklore is woven throughout and stands at the heart of the Sunbearer trials. Though the general beats of the main story are relatively normal for YA fantasy, the strong character development and world building help to create a unique story. This first installment sets up an interesting second novel that I think will further develop the world that we have been given a peak into. Aiden Thomas has a gift for creating characters that you quickly and easily come to care for, as well as writing romances that it's easy to root for. If you have enjoyed Aiden Thomas's books in the past or are interested in a YA novel set in an intriguing fantasy world then you should definitely check out the Sunbearer Trials.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief, Violence, Classism, Emotional abuse, Blood, Fire/Fire injury, and Bullying