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Apparently, life isn’t going to get any easier for Rhowyn.
With the trials starting, Rhowyn must find a way to use what she’s got, which isn’t much except determination, survival instincts, and her MMA training to somehow make it through to the end without dying. She must learn to rely on her consorts, a concept that’s new to the independent girl that has only ever relied on herself. Still determined to make it back to Earth, to the life she created there, she tries to avoid further the feelings she’s starting to develop for her selected consorts. Each one gives her something that she didn’t even know she was lacking, but as she discovers more about them, she begins to wonder if she’ll be able to cut them out of her life as easily as she had planned.
What will the trials bring?
Can she learn to lean on her men, or will her independence be her downfall?
Will she survive and if so, at what cost?

This is a why choose romance which means the leading lady doesn't have to choose from her suitors. Please check Trigger Warnings. MMFMM

391 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 9, 2024

58 people are currently reading
52 people want to read

About the author

Avah Larke

13 books34 followers

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5 stars
173 (62%)
4 stars
65 (23%)
3 stars
32 (11%)
2 stars
3 (1%)
1 star
5 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
Profile Image for Tamika Brooks-Delrosario.
21 reviews
December 12, 2024
The second book in the reluctant royal series; and it just keeps getting better! We really start to see Rhowyns baddassery come out, and irs great, she keeps throwing everyone through a loop because they think she’s just not cut out for this world. And the relationships that start to form in this! The ending had me gasping and on the edge of my seat just needing to read the next book! I can’t recommend this enough it’s unlike and series I’ve read!
27 reviews2 followers
July 2, 2024
2nd book in the series and boy was it good. Unlike most this book didn’t suffer from second book syndrome. It was exciting taking off right where the last book left off. The trials have begun and they are not easy and definitely require teamwork.

During the book we learn more about the fae realm and its people and creatures. Her relationships grow and every single one of her consorts have a place in my heart. We are introduced to someone new and I’m excited to see what their role will be continuing on.

What a cliffhanger to leave me with. I am dangling on the edge only holding on with my fingertips. Need more now.

Avah writes beautifully and keeps me interested, which at the moment is very difficult. I’m enjoying this series so much and I can’t wait to read on.
Profile Image for April Moore.
6 reviews1 follower
July 1, 2024
ARC READER
These books just keep getting better!! The characters are so relatable and realistic. I can’t get enough of them. The spice is just right and also dabbles into new territories every time it comes up. I am so in love with the almost poetic writing and ease that there is between the points of view! Avah has outdone herself! It’s so easy to get sucked into this world and root for the characters. Holy twist at the end that I was not at all prepared for and had me hollering! I’ve been looking for that rush in a book for a while! I am so ready for whatever comes next. When these books are in print they’ll certainly have a special place on my shelves. I devoured the first two, just like Rhowyn. 😉
Profile Image for Danielle Ryan.
115 reviews
July 19, 2024
Their Trials by Avah Larke
Book 2 of The Reluctant Royal Series
⚔️
I finished Book 2 in just a day and got goosebumps as I read the last paragraph. Wow. Book 3 could not get here quicker. As much as I hate cliff hangers, Avah’s cliff hangers leave you on the edge of your seat feening for your next hit.
⚔️
I am happy to say Rhowyn finally started to mature, it was one of my hopes from Book 1. Her and her consorts were put through trials to push them not just physically but mentally as well. Learning to lean on another and start mending trauma. There is definitely more growing to go and I can’t wait to see what happens in book 3. The Queen is absolutely the worst and one can only hope Rhowyn made the best decision in the end. Baer is still my favorite, Arryn taking charge in this book and stepping up is a perfect way to see how he truly is one of the best soldiers. Lennox has A LOT of trauma he needs to work through still but with him and Callum being able to start working through their past trauma is a break through. & Callum is trying, still really conflicted.
⚔️
The spice was 🔥 The growth was great & can only keep going up from here. The raven being thrown into the mix was definitely a turn I can’t wait to see through.
#theirtrials #theirchosen #thereluctantroyalseries #avahlarke #fantasybooksofig #fantasyromancebooks #fantasyromance #faeromancebooks #whychooseromance
Profile Image for Destinee 🫡.
91 reviews10 followers
August 28, 2024
˗ˋˏ their trials ˎˊ-

☆˙୨ৎ⭒๋࣭⭑ Avah Larke ☆˙୨ৎ⭒๋࣭⭑

₊˚⊹♡ Rating: 5 / 5 Stars ₊˚⊹♡

⋆˚✿˖° Review:
This book gave me everything i wanted & more. it was such a good follow up to the first, kept up the same momentum, and was a great addition to the series. i couldnt stop reading it. the slow burn and character development is phenomenal. avah writes so wonderfully and this has easily started to climb the ranks for one of my fav series.

♡ What I Loved:
- great follow up
- spice was spicin
- strong character development and depth
- story flowed together so well

.ᐟ What I Didn't Like:
- theres not a single thing i can say i didn't like

જ⁀➴ Spice Level: 3.5/5 spice is soo good, written so well, and its always in a way that makes sense at the time. it is never thrown in randomly. cant wait to read more

— ୨୧₊˚ Would I Recommend It?:
YESS! ive been telling everyone about this series. it has me in a chokehold. literally cant stop reading.

₊˚⊹♡ Conclusion:
Avah writes in such a great, creative way. everything is placed in a easy to follow way, and it always makes sense to the plot. the series and details Avah adds is amazing. I look forward to book 3!
₊˚⊹♡
Profile Image for rosa.
543 reviews12 followers
October 31, 2024
2.75 stars ⭐⭐💫
This is a good book - the plot is intriguing, the love interests are all distinct and I genuinely want to see the story unfold.

Still, the world-building feels so flimsy and lacks any impact or foundation. At times, it seemed like the author forgot their characters were not from Earth and shouldn't use slang terms like “shite” or “semi”. I also found it odd that they speak English but have place names that look like an entirely different language.

I worry, too, that the fmc is purposefully being dumbed down in parts for the plot and as a way to create tension. Rhowyn can go from being insightful and level-headed to dim-witted and obtuse in a couple of sentences for no apparent reason other than to create friction with the love interests or interject some heavy-handed exposition. And the spice? While it’s good, it seems to come from no where.

So, while the story and characters are enjoyable the writing needs some work.
Profile Image for Lornaj_reads.
332 reviews6 followers
August 10, 2024
This book leaves off just after book 1 ends now it is time for them to start their trials even though Rhowyn just wants to go back to her old life she has to compete. We learn more about her past and also about the creatures that are in Avalon. We are also introduced to someone new that we will see what they will play through the rest of the series.

This book is action packed and I loved seeing how they work together to provide Rhowyn with the strength she needs to fight her way through the trials and not sit on the sidelines like they all want her to. I gave this book 5 ⭐️ the spice is kicking up for sure so I gave it 2 🌶️.

If you have not started this series I recommend it for a debut series. It is great and can not wait for more from Avah.

Happy reading everyone 📚

#theirtrials #reluctantroyals #fae #avalon #grumpymmcs #cinnamonrollmmc #domminantmmc #fantasybooks #romantasybooks #romantasybookstagram #bookstagram #booktok #spicybooks
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lilimomlovesbooks.
254 reviews4 followers
July 8, 2024
Avah has managed to capture my heart with her series and characters!

This is the second book in the series and starts where the first book left of. Reading book one is a must before this one.

Rhowyn and her consorts are starting into their trials and have to face a lot of obstacles, not only the trials but the world around them and figuring out what and how they are to each other.

I love the action, the developing relationships, the world building and just everything about this series!

This book ends in a cliffhanger and has some topics that might be triggering. Please check them out before you dive in.
Profile Image for Ines.
1,334 reviews47 followers
July 18, 2024
This is the second book in the series, and I have to say the story just keeps on getting better and better! Our characters enter the trials in this second book, and it leads to a lot of fascinating discoveries, interesting worldbuilding, a few answers and a whole lot more questions. Rhowyn and her men slowly grow closer together, with relationship building between her and her men going at a different tempo with each of them. I have to say I love them all, but somehow Lennox carved out a slightly bigger place in my heart. The ending of this second book blew me away, and now I can’t wait to dive into book three!
2 reviews1 follower
August 10, 2024
Keeps getting better

This series keeps getting better! I cannot expression how much I am enjoying the journey of Rho and her guys. The story captured my attention in book one and hasn't let go. As soon as I finished this book I was ready for the next!

I love how the author continues to use multiple POVs as a way to show what is going on in the minds and motivations of the guys. You can see growth in all of the guys along with their relationships with Rho and it felt natural, not rushed. I really enjoy how strong Rho is but also how she is open to listening to those around her and wants to work as a team. Not only are the main characters interesting, I found myself wondering about Jude, or wanting to know more about her lady maids. Everyone is given such depth and a purpose for being mentioned.

Truly excited to continue this series and see where it goes... and hopefully we see more of Brannoc! ;)
3 reviews
August 10, 2024
This book series has me hoookkkedddddd. I love that we learn so much more about Rhowyn's men and herself. The amount of action and adventure just sucks you in and you can't stop reading. Also the spice, is perfect. The amount of twists and turns and revelations makes my head spin in the best way, I devour this book. The ending. I can't wait for the next book because this is getting so intense.

I love the detail and the thought that the author put into each one of her men, they are all so different and bring so much to the story that to me it adds so much more flavor to the book besides the action and the mystery behind Rhowyn's life, who put certain things in place and in motion. I also just love that we are learning so much about Avalon right along side Rhowyn, its like we have our own self in the book who expresses the frustration of not knowing what is going on ect.

I cant wait for more!
Profile Image for BlackAthena .
166 reviews
August 18, 2024
Beware the cliff

Whoa - what a great twist! As we're introduced to mare of this fantasy world, we also learn more of the MMCs. The FMC doesn't grow much personality wise and one of the biggest "revelations" was so obvious I could not figure out why Nome of these otherwise suspicious people would take anything from the queen and think it benign. I still have questions but there are two more books to go so hopefully and I appreciate the medium heat and slow-burn. I wish the FMC was more proactive in finding about more in the world and herself but I'm hopefully that she will be less reactionary moving forward.
6 reviews
July 3, 2024
To start off I’m so in love with these books it’s ridiculous. It was so good getting to see more of the fae world. Also the guys getting to see more of Rhowyns badassness lol I know that’s not a word. Now this book does end on a major cliffhanger that has me on the edge of my seat now waiting for the third book. I highly recommend if you love all things magical, growly touch her and die men. It’s just the best. Avah is one of my favorite authors 🖤
Profile Image for Taylor.
27 reviews
July 5, 2024
I immediately jumped into book two once it was available to me. I could not wait to get back into the story. I am so attached to the characters and the scenery that Avah explains is so detailed I feel like I am right there, experiencing all of the same things Rhowyn and her men go through. I love this series so far and I CANNOT wait until I can get my hands on the third book. Definitely a great read!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Profile Image for Batwoman.
534 reviews6 followers
July 12, 2024
I am literally dying to get my hands on book three! This book sucks you in even more than book one did. It keeps you on your toes about what’s gonna happen all throughout it. There is never a dull moment especially with the ending!!! Rhowyn is finally starting to unravel secrets all while trying to figure herself out. And her consorts, are finally coming together but still soooo many secrets! I really loved reading this book. And I will be recommending it to all epic fantasy lovers. Because no one should be missing out on this series. I absolutely love this book!
Profile Image for Natasha Wynn.
163 reviews4 followers
July 17, 2024
Seriously Avah!!! I can't even think right now because you totally blew my mind with Their Trials! I am reeling from the last 30 minutes and all the revaluations!!!

Your character and world development is so amazing that I am enamored by these characters. Rho is a freaking badass and so relatable. I want to be her friend! And the growth of her relationships with her consorts....sooo good!

I'm going to need Their War as soon as possible because I HAVE to know what happens next!!!!!
Profile Image for Ally Bess.
128 reviews
July 3, 2024
Rhowyn’s character is developing into such a selfless, caring, badass and I’m here for it!!!! If I thought the first book in this series was great, book 2 just made it so much better and made me want so much more. Each character is showing where they’re developing more and more, you feel each emotion, and I just can’t stop reading this series. I don’t wanna put this series down!
Profile Image for KyLee Zelfer.
50 reviews6 followers
July 12, 2024
Ugh! Okay, so this book just sucks you in and doesn't let you surface for air. Rhowyn is developing into such a bad ass. Towards the end of the book, secrets are just starting to unravel about her past and who she truly is. The ending is killing me! it's not a cliffhanger, it's more of a blind jump, not knowing what will find you below.
Profile Image for Sara Ray.
181 reviews2 followers
August 7, 2024
OMG Avah is the queen of suspense. Like I need her next book right this instant. I am loving this world and the powerful female lead with the right amount of smut at the right time. Bash you have a fan girl in me
2 reviews
August 29, 2024
Devoured it!

I’m 100% invested in this story. Love the character development, the plot, the writing style, all of it. My first “why choose” fae fantasy, and it surely will not be my last. Buying the next book in the series immediately!
Profile Image for Heather Gilbert.
1,779 reviews85 followers
October 24, 2024
Their Trials

I enjoyed the first book, but I liked this one even more. It had all the facets and tropes I love most: challenges, enemies to lovers (kind of), rebellion, evil queens, lost heritage - it’s a mixed bag of awesome.

Profile Image for go love yourself .
24 reviews
July 8, 2024
Rhowyn is becoming such a wonderful main character! The author managed to make me really care about her and her harem. Still, Baer is my fav but all the guys are great and individual which is really important to me.

Can't wait for book 3!
69 reviews
November 17, 2024
I love this book. It keeps you on your toes. Rhowyn and her men start the trials that Avalonia has set to choose a new Queen.
Profile Image for Alexis Miller.
804 reviews21 followers
August 10, 2024
Holy smokes I love this series. There’s spice, betrayals, found love, why choose and so much more we get more into the background of the mfc and we learn more about her men which was the best part. It had a lot of darker elements but honestly it’s what made the book super good and I can’t wait for the next one
Profile Image for Trish Pietroforte .
31 reviews3 followers
July 27, 2024
Oh my gosh this book is so good and the ending!!!! This is a must read and such a good continuation of the first book! I love the spice! I highly recommend this book!!!!
672 reviews12 followers
August 30, 2024
Story continues

This series is fantasy, rh, magic, bonds, secret powers, royalty, lost heritage and good v evil. Book two is predictable following the expected tropes in a trials saga. Our heroine learns fae ways, and tries to grow into her bonds while facing harrowing adversity. She learns some things about her heritage and who locked her magic. The evil queen becomes more evil. Deep dark issues are brought to light by all. Spoilers follow: this book has numerous plot holes which baffle the reader. The trial participants are followed by magical cameras that transmit their actions to the far world, yet the characters rarely seem to conceal their secrets? There are things they would benefit from hiding from the evil queen, but just blast them? Second, the whole charm plot. Who didn't guess the prize charm was cursed in some way?? So obvious, but none of the characters figure it out. Even if she decided to keep wearing it for another incomprehensible reason, it could easily have been reasonably broken or lost along the journey. Finally I do enjoy the idea of Charity and her consorts, but so far they seem a totally unnecessary tag along to the story. Even with all that, the book is entertaining, predictable and easy to read. The writing style flows, even when changing pov. There are few editorial errors which is refreshing. I will continue the series.
16 reviews
August 10, 2024
This book got me good... there were a lot of revelations and decisions made. The bonds growing stronger in the harem, secrets being revealed, and a few questions answered. This book is not a cliffhanger it's a free fall where you can only guess where you're going to land. Can't wait to read the next book in the series once again.
Profile Image for Trinhelium Reads.
136 reviews13 followers
March 13, 2025
This book picks up where the first book left off, plunging Rhowyn into the dangerous trials of Avalon. Rhowyn’s determination and resourcefulness remain at the forefront, but it’s her growing emotional complexity that adds depth to the story. As she fights to survive, her resistance to the emotional bonds with her consorts starts to wane, making her journey even more compelling.

The book offers a perfect balance of action, magic, and romance. The trials are intense, with every challenge testing Rhowyn’s limits, physically and emotionally. Larke excels in crafting a world where danger lurks at every corner, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Each of Rhowyn’s consorts is more fleshed out in this installment, revealing layers to their personalities and making the relationships between them and Rhowyn feel organic and necessary for her survival.

The spice ramps up in this book, and while it adds heat to the story, the emotional stakes are what truly drive the plot forward. With revelations and plot twists keeping the pace fast and engaging, the ending will leave you desperate for the next book.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★/5
Spice: ♥︎ ♥︎ ♥︎ ♥︎/5

I received an eArc copy and I am reviewing honestly and voluntarily
Profile Image for sycokittykat - Stefanie.
1,120 reviews35 followers
September 23, 2025
When the Trials begin what will Rhowyn & her consorts face?

This is book 2 and it came to play. I was absolutely entranced by the idea behind a set of trials put on by the land in which the contestants are mostly soft nobles. I mean if it wasn't for the 4 consorts most of these women would probably die.

I loved learning more about each of the consorts and really seeing what they could do both physically and with their powers. Of course we could never forget that Rhowyn is strong and a quick study. She will be forced to make quick decisions, borrow her men's powers, and defuse emotional situations and this was just with the first trial.

This book will also finally give us a few hints and secrets about who Rhowyn actually is. She will also get to learn more about her men. I was absolutely enthralled by all the new secrets we learned.

This book ends in a terrible place with so many things up in the air.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews

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