TW: death, murder, abandonment
A Trial of Sorcerers is a brilliant start to a new series by Elise Kova set in the same world as the Air Awakens series. As with Kova’s other books, you do not need to read any of the previous series to begin A Trial of Sorcerers. The series may be read in any order you choose.
Already a longtime fan of Elise Kova’s work, I knew I would enjoy A Trial of Sorcerers before I began reading it. I did not account for how thoroughly I would be consumed by returning to this world. As always, I was immediately drawn to the characters. Eira is a powerful sorcerer and devoted friend whose light is dimmed by past horrors and the overwhelming protection of her family. Cullen and Marcus both took a while to grow on me, but thank goodness for Alyss. Aside from an aunt in the guard that she rarely sees, everyone else in Eira’s life had me questioning their true intentions and wondering if and when they’d stab her in the back.
While taking place in an hybrid academy setting, there is very little time spent in a classroom. At first, it appears that this book centers around the hardships of an outcast young girl who’s been burned by love and seeks to prove herself in the face of adversity. Though that may be partially true, the maturity of the characters and the situations that they face combats any “teenage drama” that crops up. The greater story here is Eira’s journey to discover the truth about her past and unlock the potential running through her veins. The implications of this discovery and more promise the expectation of a thrilling epic fantasy series.
The trials provided an exciting backdrop to Eira’s own emotional turmoil, forcing her to confront those who stand against her, even in the name of her own protection. Her endless fortitude and continual growth made her all the more fascinating to follow. Though Eira’s transformation is tough to witness by the end of the book, I’m itching to see what becomes of her in the coming books. Will she be able to thaw her frozen heart? Or will she become just as frozen and unyielding as the ice she wields?
I found some of the twists and turns of this book to be predictable, which is the only thing keeping me from rating this 5 stars. I enjoyed every minute of this read and was completely blown away by the ending. The romance left a little to be desired, but there is potential for the sequel to be far more interesting in that department. I can’t wait for the next installment, A Hunt of Shadows, which is anticipated to release later this year! Book 1 is available now!
I highly recommend A Trial of Sorcerers for fans of the Legend of Korra, Truthwitch, and A Sorcery of Thorns.
Thank you to Elise Kova and Book of Matches Media for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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