Trials of the Heart

by H.E. Gober

When the Folk she trusts above all others break her heart, Kali is left feeling helpless and alone during the most crucial time in her life. Through sheer determination and spite, she pulls herself out of the darkness, becoming the warrior she longed to be. But before she has time to revel in her victory, the Blessed unveil that Kali is more important than she realizes.
With the hint of what her future may hold, Kali fights every instinct that screams to run and hide. Falling back on the determination and courage she has cultivated throughout the years, she faces the questions her destiny relies on.
Will she be able to confront her past to forgive those she once called family? Even if it may mean sacrificing everything she has fought to become? Can the walls she built around her heart be broken down to learn to trust again? Or, more terrifyingly, soften her heart toward a kind of love she promised herself never to feel?
H.E. Gober's Trials of the Heart is an emotionally charged fantasy romance series that will test your resolve as well as bring you hope and joy throughout each character's journey.

Paperback

Published September 2, 2023

Reviews

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was SOOOOOO good! The author did a fantastic job with character building right away and developing a fast paced story. I'm so sad that it ended on a cliffhanger, but I'm looking forward to the next book already!

[Missbookwormwrites (Cynthia) · Rating 5 out of 5]

1st, I want to thank H.E. Gober for giving me the opportunity to ARC read this work of art.

Going into this book, I was originally nervous because it has been a while since I've read an epic fantasy. But those nerves went away by the 2nd chapter, and from there on out, this book had me in a vice grip the entire time.

Some tropes in this story are:

-Friends to enemies to ...?
-Forced Proximity
-Second Chance
-high stakes
-The Hero's Journey
- incapable of love

Some CW/TW are:
-Anxiety/Panic Attacks
-Bullying
-Attempted SA
-Blood
-Violence

This book comes loaded with a cast of characters that stay with you long after you close the book. Some you will love, other you will hate, but each one was so well written and distinct. Kali, our FMC is such a strong and determined individual. Despite growing up as the 'runt of the litter' due to her size. Despite being plagued by bullies and anxiety attacks, she wants to succeed and become some that is respected and seen as an equal, instead of just a weakling. Boy, does she succeed! Her character arc in this book was so beautiful to watch. Nothing hindered her, not even being betrayed and lied to by the one she called her best friend, Kali, kept fighting for her goal, even with a broken heart. And like a Phoenix she rose from the ashes.
I absolutely loved her!
I also like her friends, and even though certain friends pissed me off, I was curious to see how everything was going to play out, considering the prophecy that may come to fruition and the consequences that may happen if Kali chooses wrong.
Oh, and that ending had my jaw on the floor. I cannot believe it! I need book 2 right now to see what happens.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review 📚
Book: Trial of the Hearts
Author: H.E. Gober

4.5/5🌟

Read If You Enjoy:
👑 High Fantasy
👑 Beautiful World Building 
👑 Strong Female Lead

In this story, we follow Kalianna, a woman who refuses to be defined by her anxiety and dark past, as she completes her trials and finds her place in the world. The world building was beautiful, and the characters are some of my favourite in all the books I have read this year. My absolute favourite character was Edith, the quintessential best friend to Kalianna. She is witty, caring, and compassionate. 

The plot in this story was a fast-paced grand adventure full of beautiful lands and unique characters. I had a bit of difficulty getting through the first bit of the book as it seemed longer than it needed to be, but it was still enjoyable to read. That being said, this book also kept me up until three in the morning because I could not put it down and needed to know how it ended

Highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fast-paced high fantasy adventure with an amazing cast of characters.

This book ends on a cliffhanger with so many questions left to be answered, and I cannot wait to continue this story!

There are trigger warnings for this book. Please check before reading. 

Thank you, H.E. Gober, for providing me with an ARC copy of Hearts of the Lost in exchange for an honest review ❤️

[Gnome Patronus · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️Overall 5/5
🌶️ Spice 2/5
🖤Dark 1.5/5

“Please grant me the strength and audacity of my Momma. I feel I could go far with that set of skills.”

Little Bird….This is a pet name that I use to LOVE and a book a few years ago RUINED it for me…but the way Jax says it in the beginning of this book, my heart was melting each time!! Now that I got that out of the way I can move on to the characters… the author writes them in such a way that you feel the strong bond they have and love them all and the relationship they have and they are friends that you want in your own life. By page 17..yep SEVENTEEN I was in LOVE with 4 characters and was ready to wage war if harm was thrown there way…well, there was war. I mean, if we are being honest if a book is good there will be hurt. The main character is bullied by others, she has to find her self and we see the struggles she goes through to get there. If you like hunger games put into a fae world with separate realms add a dash of mixed matched characters that all fit (breakfast club and Lemonade mouth vibes for me), and a dusting of light lark vibes, then pick up Trials of the Heart, some tissues and.,..oh yeah, there is a cliffhanger ending (but SO worth the climb to that cliff)

[Chelle Cypress · Rating 5 out of 5]

This unique novel follows Kalianna a Fae who is trying to garner her standing with the Fae realm by participating the Trials of the Heart.

The book interestingly could easily have been split into 2 novels. The first half was the trail which took place over the span of a few days. It was action packed, and filled with emotional intrigue. The second half of the book surrounded the events 200 years after the trials and deals with the consequences of what happened during the trials focusing heavily on an emotional journey.

Overall I would say that the first half of the book reminded me of the wings of night with action, self reflection and a deep desire to find ones place in the world. Where the second half focused more on personal growth, self reflection and I can’t quite find a parallel title that matches it making it very unique.

It does leave on a very frustrating cliff hanger but I am very excited for book 2 which I’m 💯 will be my jam.

Tropes include
Coming of age
Friendship
Betrayal

[T.L. Combs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trials of the Heart is the remarkable debut of H.E. Gober, a novel I had the privilege of experiencing as an alpha reader. At the heart of the story is Kali, the spirited protagonist grappling with anxiety, whose reliance on the unbreakable bond she shares with her closest companions—Edith, Falen, and Jak—becomes pivotal. Together, they embark on a challenging journey known as the "Trials," navigating through the obstacles thrown by the Blessed. Will their friendship endure the relentless trials they face? Or will it crumble into dust?

This book seamlessly weaves together elements of angst, drama, and love, while emphasizing the power of "I choose what my healing looks like".

Prepare to be moved, as Trials of the Heart effortlessly evokes laughter, tears, and a profound emotional connection. I urge you to treat yourself to this exceptional experience; it is a decision you won't regret.

[Jessica James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing

So i seen this book and wanted to give it a try and im so glad i did i havent been able to put it down! You have the FMC as a youngling who is relentlessly bullied growing up. With her 2 guy friends and her other friend Edith they try to protect her from the bulling, but was it the right move. They all face The Trial to find out who they are, but before the tria starts one friend betrays her and she vows never again and hardens her heart. After the trial is over her 2 guys friends are taken to different countries while ahe stays with Edith and has to figure our herself and what she was told by the priestess. 200 years later her time is running out so she must face her past, with a few bumps, twists, misunderstandings she runs into the one she has been avoiding. Phenomenal book cant wait to move on to book 2

[Adrianne Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listen. I don't read much anymore because of life and children and work, BUT this book HAD ME IN A CHOKEHOLD. The world that Gober has built is gorgeous and creative, and I just want to spend a year in Ragnis now. The characters, especially the main character Kali, and their development are beautifully done. The side characters really steal the show, though. Faelan, Winnie, and Keiko were my faves. <3 I HIGHLY recommend this book. I will warn you, however. It ends on a cliffhanger that will rip out your heart. I am undone waiting for book 2. D: HURRY UP, HE GOBER. ;~;

[Rochelle Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a book reviewer and have read almost 200 books so far this year. This book is in my top 10 favorites. This book is a fantasy romance and not the usual genre that I read .... But wow I am such a fan of this indie author's writing. I finished this book 2 months ago and still think about it all the time. This book has trials to prove themselves, friendships that are tested, and a love story that will have you aching. I will give no spoilers as this book is best going into blind. Trust me when I say Goblet of Fire has nothing on this one.

[Nicole Marie Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolute amazing high fantasy story and I was amazed this was a first book by this author while reading it. It’s so well thought out and the world building was done so great. The development of the characters throughout kept you sucked in and made you ready to devour the entire story in one sitting and your left ready for more. I felt so many emotions reading this and felt a part of the story which is of course the best kind of book. Definitely an author I can’t wait to see lots more from.

[Siren Bard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trials of the Heart by H.E Gober will leave you emotionally distraught when done for all the right reasons!

I loved this book. I loved every heart breaking, tender, laughable, earth shattering moment in this book. I could easily read this again and again. The only thing I have to say is why leave us on THAT cliffhanger?! I am still emotionally distraught to say much else but go read this book you won't regret it.

[Yoletta Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a captivating story that follows Kali and her friends as they navigate becoming mature Folk. Kali is such a powerhouse FMC because she is really easy to relate to. She was looked down upon as a youngling due to her size but she is so strong. I would recommend the book as a 10 out of 10. Just a warning though it will leave you craving more.

[N.R. Phoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I loved most about this story was the excellent growth arc each character had from beginning to end. H.E. Gober did an incredible job at staying true to each character's "tone." The "realms," magic, and trials were all so very unique. I love this story and cannot wait to find out what happens in book 2!

[Kiki ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Words cannot explain 🫢

I must emphasize the importance of reading the triggers before picking this up (you should just read it)

But anyways!! The ONE spicy scene! 🥵 was sooo good!!!

It will leave you wanting more! I promise you’ll react the way that I did (angry at first but left wanting more!) 🖤

In conclusion, it’s a MUUUST read! Add it ASAP!!!

[Leslie Kilpatrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my! This is my first H. E. Gober read and I am so happy I did! This is the first of a high fantasy series that follows the MFC in her journey from bullied to heroine. She meets new friends and makes some new enemies along the way. I absolutely adore all of the characters and this novel had me gripped from the beginning!

[Karlie Barone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I loved the FMC and how she didn’t let her weaknesses define who she was. She just kept doing things to prove others wrong. The world building was amazing. I loved the different creatures in the story. I can’t wait for the next book. That cliffhanger

[Gabby · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a book!! I went through an array of emotions while reading. I loved how the story moved effortlessly, and the character growth was great! Very good read!

That cliffhanger got me good.. I look forward to the next book!

[Octavia Penn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me hooked at the moment we went on the ship. I couldn't put it down and read it all in three days. I am ready for the second one to come out. If you haven't read this book, run don't walk to get it. it is that good.

[Audury Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!

I am a sobbing mess over here but omg this was such a good book I physically couldn’t put it down. It held me in a chokehold the whole time. I am waiting on pins and needles for book 2

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must Read!!!

There was never a dull moment while reading this. I read this and never once felt like it was a story I had already read before, you which is hard to find if you read a lot.

[Heather Santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an arc. I enjoyed the trials, it was like the trials of life. Some you win and some you lose, but as long as you put your whole heart into it, it will work out.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review coming soon.

[Marissa Atchison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a book club read, and I loved every second of it. That cliffhanger is brutal, and I am not happy with H.E. I loved the whole story, but now I need more.

[Melissa Hampton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fantastic fantasy

This book is full of action, adventure, emotional betrayals with a strong female lead character. I couldn't put it down.

[Lari :) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not for me, but it might be for you :)

[N.J. Rodman · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
1.5🌶️

I loved everything about this book. I related to Kali so much and her struggles with relationships and overcoming hardship really resonated with me. That world that H.E. Gober built is absolutely stunning, and filled with all sorts of colourful creatures and characters.

The Stable Scene 🔥🔥

The trials themselves were incredibly clever, and really make you wonder what you would do in those situations. The ending left me gasping and wanting for more and I can’t wait to see what happens in book two.

[i_hype_romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75⭐️

Well-crafted, wonderful debut.
Will definitely recommend to those I know who define themselves as fantasy readers.

[Rizzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

As per my usual way of finding new books, I happened across H.E. Gober's booktok account and found her videos about this book intriguing. Granted, I was also mildly scared by them, I knew I wanted to find out the reasons behind the betrayal and heartache she'd described. While I had anticipated the tears and emotions I'd feel while reading this book, what I actually experienced was so far beyond what my mind had imagined.

This story follows the life of Kali, a smaller member of the Folk, and the tale of her meeting her three best friends. The first parts hint at their lives, the things they all went through as children, before the REAL story starts. I won't go too in depth, not wanting to spoil things. But let's just say something happens that tests Kali's mental and emotional fortitude on the night before what her people call the Trials.

The betrayal, the heartache, the downright AGONY this young woman is hit with was gut wrenching for me. I had to have a box of tissues at my side for the first part of the book. It was THAT good! It's a powerfully wild ride that Kali goes through after such a hard hit and yet, she sticks to her truth. She pulls herself up, builds her wall around her heart, and handles it all like a damn BOSS! She's determined to prove her former family wrong and become the Folk no one believed she could be.

Not only has this talented author created characters that are original, whole, and so damn real you can feel what they feel in every moment as if it's your own. But she's built this fascinating world with creatures and lore that I've yet to see in any other book I've read. From the monsters to the mounts, from the flora to the fauna, it's all so beautifully written and immerses you in this magical world that holds to the fantasy edge without rubbing it in our faces.

In conclusion, Trials of the Heart is a brilliantly written story that will have your heart in a vice with every page you turn. You'll cry, laugh, gasp, and yell as you join Kali on her journey to become the strong, smart, and fascinating woman she was meant to be. I must warn you, though. This book ends on a cliffhanger, one that I still cursed at even when I knew it was coming. You will want to prepare yourself for it and check your TWs. If you can get past them, you'll enjoy this outstanding book just as much as I have. Way to go, H.E. Gober. You rocked it! 💜💜

[Virginia · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.