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Elemental Mage #2

Alius Trials

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Lori’s struggles at the Alius Academy just keep getting more dangerous and tangled.

As she ruminates on her failed meeting with the mysterious ‘Voice’ – whom she hoped could tell her who she is and why he released her magic – her fate at the Academy remains on a knife-edge, in the hands of her nemesis, Sebastian Hale.

The next trials are designed to insert the invitees into their own personal nightmares, including forcing known enemies to become allies. But can Lori be sure that those enemies won’t stab her in the back?

All the while, secret alliances and agendas run rife among the professors, and Lori discovers that tensions between the alius are far worse than she ever imagined.

Will Sebastian tell the Chancellor of Lori’s failed secret rendezvous, so that she’s packed off to a detention facility or worse, an alius prison? So far, he’s keeping quiet, but he could strike at any moment. When will he allow that axe to fall?

Whatever her future holds, Lori must embrace what she is, learn all she can, and fight for her life – or she might not survive this…

If you like strong, quirky heroines in action-packed, upper YA fantasy with love interests on the side , then you’ll love the second instalment in the Elemental Mage Series!

Ends in a cliffhanger. Borrow or one click now to continue the trials.

351 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 29, 2023

44 people are currently reading
24 people want to read

About the author

Lara Wray

2 books52 followers
Alius Trials: Elemental Mage Series Book 2 is out now in paperback and eBook on Amazon and the eBook is in Kindle Unlimited. Here's the link if you want to buy or borrow it: https://geni.us/aliustrialsebook


Alius Academy is available on Amazon in; eBook, paperback and on Kindle Unlimited. It's a full-length novel, just over 70,000 words. Here is the link to purchase it:

https://geni.us/aliusacademyebook

Lara is currently working hard on Book 3 in the Elemental Mage Series.

Sign up for her newsletter and get the free companion novella to Alius Academy, named Seeker Mage. The link is here https://geni.us/newslettergr

For a map of the Academy, and more information visit www.larawray.com

Lara Wray is a pen name for the debut author. She spends her days befriending, evading, and battling mythical or alien people and creatures – and by night she loves to read about them. She writes strong, quirky heroines in stories that you can't put down, packed with magic, danger, and action that will leave you wanting more.

When she can’t catch a pegasus, she loves to catch a bus to her favourite café for a brownie slice and a smooth latte.

​In all seriousness, the author does love a latte, hanging out with her husband and family, going on walks, trips or on holidays to beautiful places, usually rich with historical background.

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5 stars
95 (61%)
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43 (27%)
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16 (10%)
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Bevany.
669 reviews14 followers
August 11, 2023
Such a fun world and a great story. There is so much action packed in this second book of the series. From start to finish, the book will keep you engaged in the story. Ya no smut. I highly suggest this book to ya readers and lovers of magical academies. It's definitely a bingable book.
Profile Image for Anna (The_Reading_Pantry).
366 reviews59 followers
August 18, 2023
For the record, I would looooove magically applied makeup! Makeup that doesn’t smear sounds amazing! Sign me up!

This is the second book in the Elemental Mage Series and it was just as fun as book one! I love books where someone learns they have powers and go to school where they become immersed in a magical world with enemies, handsome/mysterious rivals, and a lot of action. 😁

The trials were a fun mystery and added to the adventure. The world building was great and I loved the multiple magical races that were in this book!

For those who care, there are some swear words in this one. It didn’t bother me but I know others are sensitive to that. No F words, just a few S and one D. 😊

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Natasha (The Bookbasket).
374 reviews9 followers
July 31, 2023
Book 1 won my heart, Book 2 laughed maniacly and ran away with it. Despite all efforts to put this book down and get to work, I was constantly picking it back up again with the need to know "what next".

I continued to be floored by the amazing world-building, the amazing characters and the suspecious Sebastian Hale 👀..

If you love a clash of mystical creatures, from werewolves to vampires to fae to... Aliens, yep, aliens, I would really suggest picking this book up.

Now excuse me while I try and attempt to figure out where this story is going.

*I received an advance review copy from the author, and I'm leaving a review voluntarily*
Profile Image for Brigitte .
1,611 reviews23 followers
August 1, 2023
This book is different from book one, but just as enjoyable. Lara Wray has introduced us to this magical world where anything can be expected. The surprises keep coming and Lori is really put to the tests. Can she overcome them all? Has she found allies in some of her friends, not counting Eyebrows who remains a mystery. I guess more will be revealed in the next installment. I really enjoyed reading this second part of the series. Well done.
Profile Image for Hayley.
3 reviews1 follower
July 29, 2023
I absolutely loved this book! I was sat on the edge of my seat not wanting to put it down. It’s definitely a quick read and you will be stuck reading it at 3am just to make sure it’s finished.

But OMG it’s amazing! It’s so well written and I just cannot recommend this book enough! It’s pretty much for everyone’s taste as well which makes it so much more appealing
Profile Image for Enfys Halford.
2 reviews5 followers
August 5, 2023
I received an advance review copy from the author, and I'm leaving a review voluntarily.

On our return to the Alius Academy, stakes are raised even higher as Lara Wray gives us one of the books of the year. While Harry Potter is clearly the closest comparison, the Elemental Mages series showcases more human and realistic characters on top of a much more robust, deeper, and more satisfying world. If you liked Alius Academy, you'll love Alius Trials.

300 reviews7 followers
October 13, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.


I couldn’t put this book down! It is a quick read which I loved and the story is so captivating that I could not put the book down. It was so good and I lover seeing more of Lori, her life truly is an adventure. The writing and the world building were as amazing as the first one. The trials, the twist and turns were honestly perfection and the stakes were really high in this book. I also loved that the author narrowed down the number of characters since that was one of the things that made book one a little difficult to follow along. One of the parts I enjoyed the most is that even though the FMC is definitely very powerful she is still learning how to use them so it doesn’t cause a power imbalance. Overall, this series just gives me all of the Zodiac Academy/Harry Potter/Hunger Games vibes and just keeps me wanting to read more and more. I have read sequels that are not on the level of book one so my excitement to continue the series disappears but this series did not disappoint me. I am honestly so exited to continue this series and see what more happens to Lori and the gang!
89 reviews
August 4, 2023
Lara Wray has worked some magic and made the second book even better than the first!

In this second installment of the Elemental Mages series, Lori finds herself struggling to gain control of her elemental powers, mage magic, and fears while fighting for her life on and off the trials. And let’s not forget Eyebrows. Yep, that’s right, Eyebrows (aka Sebastian, her annoyingly hot arch enemy) continues to stalk Lori and terrorize her. Friendships are solidified, alliances are made and enemy lines are blurred during this fast paced perilous race to finish the trials and be accepted into the best magical combat academy in the world, Alius Academy. This adventure has humor, drama, mages, fae, vampires, dwarves, shifters, aliens and even zombies!

“Mind your mouth, mind your bloodlines, mind your thoughts.”

I was privileged to receive an advance review copy from the author and I’m excited to leave a review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Ladyroyreadsbooks .
81 reviews2 followers
August 20, 2023
Lori’s struggles at the Alius Academy just keep getting more dangerous and tangled.

The next trials are designed to insert the invitees into their own personal nightmares, including forcing known enemies to become allies. But can Lori be sure that those enemies won’t stab her in the back?

The second installment of The Elemental Mage series does not disappoint.  Lori continues to grow her found family with more allies. But as the trials become more demanding so does the outside world. Conspiracy theories about separatist groups and who actually has feelings for her may distract from what's really at stake. Also, does Lori know who she really is. Can her friends help her figure it out. Again, I say this is a six or seven book series. It's a must read read for fans of YA high fantasy.

I love @larawrayauthor. You will too when you dive into this series.
Profile Image for Lisa Podam.
9 reviews
October 8, 2023
Would of been nice to know that book 2 of 2 wasn’t the end or I wouldn’t of started reading them as now have to wait til whenever for book 3 and I’ll of forgotten what I’ve read in book 1 & 2 😂
Profile Image for Riniya.
334 reviews20 followers
August 5, 2023
Tropes/ Key Points:
* Magical Trials
* Forbidden Existence
* Found Family
* Cliffhanger Ending
* Academy Setting
* Love Triangle (Possible)


Spice: Nope

Review:

Alius Academy walked so that Alius Trials could run.

I was pleasantly surprised going into this book, especially considering the way that its predecessor ended. The first book was good, but it had its faults which is to be expected. No book is perfect but this one comes pretty darn close to it. The author is much more confident between the two books and it feels like she is finally able to get to the story she wants to tell.

The problem with fantasy novels is that the first book spends so much time setting up the world, that you are left wanting whereas the second book dives right in and gets to the heart of the plot. That is exactly what has happened with this series, and that's not a complaint by any means.

1) Characters

In book one we were introduced to so many side characters (makes sense considering it's an Academy style novel) that it became a bit overwhelming. This book tackles that issue by reducing the amount of people we are involved with, narrowing it back down to a select group with a few outsiders in a way that makes it easy to follow.

We do get some new characters introduced in this story, but I feel like it's handled in a better way. I have no issues recalling who these new people are and don't feel like I was missing out on anything.

2) Magical Trials

Now that we are into the second book, I understand the direction that this author is wanting to go in her story. One of my complaints about book one is no longer valid with the release of this second book. I had stated that the ending of book one felt rushed, like we were getting cut off in the middle of the story rather than it ending with the cliff-hanger vibe. The first book builds up so much to the trials, that having it end before they got there felt off.

However, considering that the trials are the focus of this book, it now makes more sense that the first book simply is our introduction into the world, allowing us to get our feet wet and understand the environment of the story.

There are many trials throughout the book that range in difficulty and humor. I think that they are super creative and I enjoy the way that the author displays the variety of magic in this world and how it can be utilized.

3) Power Growth

Our FMC is a bit over powered but that's okay because she can't use them anyway! I am happy that we aren't in a situation where the MC discovers they have abilities and then suddenly they are top of their class. This author does it right, giving us tastes of her succeeding while also showing her struggle in the magical classes. It's going to be an uphill battle but I do have hope that the author doesn't drag it out too long.

Overall, such a great story and I love the way that it ended. It was miles above the first book, but I don't think that it's an issue with the author or her writing. As stated above, I think it's simply the curse of writing a fantasy series.

** I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review **
Profile Image for Kreela.
657 reviews22 followers
November 11, 2023
good LitRPG

This is a standard bully academy urban fantasy with a kitchen sink of paranormals, including aliens called Elusussians. Growing up human and taking on a restaurant job has not helped Lora when she gets attacked and then ‘saved’....only to be given a choice between prison (hey, she was the victim here!) and a military academy for paranormals.

The writing is not outstandingly beautiful, but the plain prose style works for this kind of story. What really elevates the novel is how polite Lora can be; it’s so refreshing! While under duress to complete a set of trials to decide who can actually attend the academy:

“I thought an introduction was in order, though time was ticking away, and I’d wasted loads of it already. “Saffron, this is Vil – Vil, Saffron.”

What holds this book back:
⁃ The story doesn’t really start for me until 33% or more.
⁃ I felt unengaged until 50% of the book because it feels like this is just a setup.
⁃ The trials themselves don’t promote character development, at least for any secondary characters. None of the secondary characters breached the realm of 3 dimensionality.

The Romance:
I hesitate to call it a paranormal romance. It seems like every guy she meets is hawt with a capital H, which is a teaser, but you would think she would become immune to their looks over time. The plot overshadows any attraction, though.

💘 There is the telepathic Sebastian, a Hulk-like mage, who rivals her.
💘 Or Vil, the gorgeous Elusussian...he lacks any kind of description for me
💘 Or the teaching assistant, another Elusussian, Art
-- and so on.
It does remind me of a favorite, unfinished series by A&A Kirk. At the time, I loved the formulaic chapters and strange take on Snow White surrounded by her superheroes...and I see possibilities here.

The world:
Magic is used to replace technology. For example, there is a flying drone that Lori names Maximus. Food at the cafeteria is ordered through a virtual menu. It should seem familiar even as new supernaturals are introduced.

There is so much emphasis upon the trials, I realized this is a long evolution into overcoming one’s fears. It’s plot-heavy and not a romance.
Profile Image for Spinneretta.
2,858 reviews22 followers
November 26, 2023
Good

WARNING! Cliffhanger! This is a book-hook type, as in no-one’s life is in immediate danger, but there is a situation which remains unresolved. I give it a 4/5 on my trauma scale.

Lori and her friends continue to undergo the trials, while she struggles to understand the new world she finds herself in.

Quite a lot happens in this book, both dealing with the completion of the trials, and with making her friends and allies. She learns a little more about her magic, and about the magical world, but most of that is still a mystery.
Hopefully we’ll start to see some questions being answered in the next book, which I am hopeful will be out soon!

An entertaining read, this is a good one for the urban fantasy and academy fantasy fans out there.
673 reviews12 followers
February 5, 2024
Still good

The story continues with the rest of the trials. Still no one knows who the fmc really is. Still well written and edited. There are a lot of main characters, men and women, all with different talents. No real romance. The trials became a bit boring and I wanted the plot to move forward, but no. This was mostly an adventure novel with lots of magical fighting. Clever, but no plot development.
Profile Image for Destiny Bridwell.
1,719 reviews36 followers
January 20, 2024
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. I enjoyed the first book and this one was just as good. The mystery that surrounds the trials at this school was crazy. This one seemed things because more solid like with her friendship and those that were against her. I can't want to see what will happen next.
14 reviews
January 20, 2025
enjoyable read, keep them coming really enjoyed the magic system, tension in the story, friendships, and trials. The character development was just as interesting at the plot.

Quite enjoyed the tension in the story, magic system, friendship, and trials. The character dynamics were as interesting as the plot.
Profile Image for Mel.
271 reviews6 followers
August 25, 2023
I was entranced by this second book in the series. It is full of twists and suspense keeping you hooked from start to finish and the characters are amazing, so realistic. A definite must read and I can’t wait for book 3!
Profile Image for Tiffany.
694 reviews41 followers
October 29, 2023
After reading the first book in this series, I was very eager to see how the series continues in book two. I was not disappointed. Fast paced and action packed, this book keeps you interested throughout. I really enjoyed reading this.
Profile Image for Jordan Encee.
Author 2 books19 followers
December 15, 2023
Trails done, now looking towards the future

Taking place after moments of the first book. The trails continue and more epic movements and mysteries are shown. I love how the MC learns her way to use her magic better. It’s a lot of fun and I cannot wait for the future.
Profile Image for Lynette.
102 reviews3 followers
December 31, 2023
Brava!!

Book two did not disappoint! Picked up right where the first one left off. Every chapter had me craving more, what was the next trial? How could this trial be worse than the last? What is Eyebrows story?? Can't wait for book THREE!!!
Profile Image for Jade Bombardier.
23 reviews
September 14, 2024
Amazing 🤩

Oh my... I couldn't put it down... And now it's finished... What am I going to do until book 3? Ending with so many questions of what will follow... So many possibilities.... Thanks Lara for such a wonderful adventure ❤️
83 reviews2 followers
April 29, 2025
Engaging

Story with a plot, no cliff hangers but interest created wanting you to read more. Well written without mistakes. Suitable for all ages. I don’t follow many authors but I will be watching this one for future tales.
Profile Image for Anna Maria.
235 reviews2 followers
September 2, 2025
Ok this book to me for a ride. I was sad when it ended but not too much, thinking I was just gonna nip over to Amazon for the next book in the series. Now I’m stuck. A series this great needs to have all the books out right away otherwise I’m gonna go crazy 🤪
Profile Image for Hope Griffin Diaz.
315 reviews32 followers
August 13, 2023
Alius Trials: Elemental Mage Books Two

This upper YA Paranormal/Urban Fantasy reads as if Harry Potter and The Hunger Games had a baby who's many was the Divergent series.

"Ignorance was far from bliss; knowledge was everything, and I needed to gain as much as I could." - Lori, human but Eassusian, perhaps Royalty, possesses Mage power.

✅️Enemies to Frenemies
✅️The Trials from Hell
✅️The Truth is Out There...Maybe
✅️Friend Power

Alius Trials feels like a never ending battle with Lori fighting for her life against elements, animals, and even her old pal, Sebastian who doesn't just leave her hanging.

The Voice is back and just as mysterious as ever. Is Lori truly in danger at the Academy. Is the danger from Sebastian or is there something else going on there?

And what is up with Sebastian? He's like an elementary school yard bully. So mean because deep down maybe all that hostility might be covering up something else.

I loved Book Two so much. I speed through it needing to know what was happening. Book Three can't get here soon enough.

The Elemental Mage Series is taking off. Be amongst the grass roots readers!!!!

🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟
2 reviews1 follower
August 18, 2023
Loved this book. Beautifully written, fun and easy. You are taken on a magical journey full of adventure.

Profile Image for Jo Saxton.
67 reviews
January 5, 2025
Wow

What a series! A cliff hanger ending. I so need more. Lori is a great character and the gang is fantastic.
506 reviews1 follower
January 6, 2025
Cliff hanger ending

Some pretty good twists and unpredictable plots. Stronger character lines than the usual teenager at academy books. Unexpectedly hooking me in.
Profile Image for Dawn Filler.
170 reviews2 followers
May 7, 2025
Fast paced with lots of action! I enjoyed the characters interactions and facing challenges together. Read this book in a couple hours. Hope 3rd book is released soon!
8 reviews
June 17, 2025
Great Read

I loved both of these books and can’t wait for the 3rd book to come out.
Loved all the characters and their back stories.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews

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