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The Trials of Darkness
For years after her mother’s passing, Briar Blackbyrne lived in the shadows.
Briar now lives her life completely invisible to the outside world and her father, who rules the kingdom of Daramveer through fear and punishment. The princess of this feared kingdom has a darkness within her that keeps her chained and afraid of losing control.
Being descendants of powerful Gods and Wiitches, Shadow and Lumor Wielders are gifted with magic. Or so some think. When Briar’s mother died, so did her magic, as she vowed to never use her curse again.
When Briar’s brother returns to the kingdom of Daramveer after being away for five years, things begin to change. Unexplained creatures from Briar’s past, ritualistic crystals, and a dark ancient magic begin to surface that should have long been forgotten. When the king announces an arranged marriage, Briar decides to fight for her future and her own hand by entering a number of deadly trials alongside the men fighting for her.
Winning the trials turns into a distant thought, as merely surviving becomes the true test.
Briar now lives her life completely invisible to the outside world and her father, who rules the kingdom of Daramveer through fear and punishment. The princess of this feared kingdom has a darkness within her that keeps her chained and afraid of losing control.
Being descendants of powerful Gods and Wiitches, Shadow and Lumor Wielders are gifted with magic. Or so some think. When Briar’s mother died, so did her magic, as she vowed to never use her curse again.
When Briar’s brother returns to the kingdom of Daramveer after being away for five years, things begin to change. Unexplained creatures from Briar’s past, ritualistic crystals, and a dark ancient magic begin to surface that should have long been forgotten. When the king announces an arranged marriage, Briar decides to fight for her future and her own hand by entering a number of deadly trials alongside the men fighting for her.
Winning the trials turns into a distant thought, as merely surviving becomes the true test.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 3, 2025
48 people are currently reading
1341 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Breaux
3 books98 followersI’m Kathryn Breaux. I am a new Indie Author writing my first novel to be released early 2025 - The Trials of Darkness.
My love of reading has ebbed and flowed throughout my life but my love of fantasy has never faltered. Typically, I’m hanging with my family, reading fantasy, romantasy, or thrillers when I'm not writing. But let’s be honest, I’m writing a lot these days.
I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, helping me pursue my dream of being an Author.
I’m thrilled to be reaching for my dreams and I hope you take the leap of faith and chase your own.
My love of reading has ebbed and flowed throughout my life but my love of fantasy has never faltered. Typically, I’m hanging with my family, reading fantasy, romantasy, or thrillers when I'm not writing. But let’s be honest, I’m writing a lot these days.
I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, helping me pursue my dream of being an Author.
I’m thrilled to be reaching for my dreams and I hope you take the leap of faith and chase your own.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
February 16, 2025
3.5⭐️
The Trials of Darkness by Kathryn Breaux, is a solid 3.5 star read. This debut novel is an action-packed fantasy with a strong heroine, intense trials, and a touch of romance. The story follows Briar Blackbyrne, a princess who has spent years hiding her shadow magic in a kingdom that fears and suppresses it. But when her brother returns and dark magic resurfaces, she finds herself in a dangerous position. Instead of accepting an arranged marriage, she makes a bold move—entering the deadly trials meant for her suitors and taking control of her own fate.
One of the things I really enjoyed was the high-stakes competition. The trials were brutal and unpredictable, keeping me on edge the whole time. Briar’s character development was another highlight. She starts off restrained and uncertain but grows into her power and confidence in a way that felt satisfying. That being said, I did feel that some parts of the story transitioned too abruptly, making it a little hard to follow at times. The romance also moved pretty quickly, and I would have liked to see it develop more gradually.
Overall, The Trials of Darkness is a strong start to what looks like an exciting fantasy series. If you enjoy books with dangerous competitions, dark magic, and fierce heroines, it’s definitely worth a read.
I would like to thank Kathryn Breaux for gifting me this ARC.
The Trials of Darkness by Kathryn Breaux, is a solid 3.5 star read. This debut novel is an action-packed fantasy with a strong heroine, intense trials, and a touch of romance. The story follows Briar Blackbyrne, a princess who has spent years hiding her shadow magic in a kingdom that fears and suppresses it. But when her brother returns and dark magic resurfaces, she finds herself in a dangerous position. Instead of accepting an arranged marriage, she makes a bold move—entering the deadly trials meant for her suitors and taking control of her own fate.
One of the things I really enjoyed was the high-stakes competition. The trials were brutal and unpredictable, keeping me on edge the whole time. Briar’s character development was another highlight. She starts off restrained and uncertain but grows into her power and confidence in a way that felt satisfying. That being said, I did feel that some parts of the story transitioned too abruptly, making it a little hard to follow at times. The romance also moved pretty quickly, and I would have liked to see it develop more gradually.
Overall, The Trials of Darkness is a strong start to what looks like an exciting fantasy series. If you enjoy books with dangerous competitions, dark magic, and fierce heroines, it’s definitely worth a read.
I would like to thank Kathryn Breaux for gifting me this ARC.
January 17, 2025
✨The Trials of Darkness✨
Brave meets Goblet of Fire trials but make it adult and spicy in this tale of shadow and light by Kathryn Breaux.
In TTOD, we follow the first person POV of Princess Briar who has been hiding within her castle and suppressing her shadow magic for five years, since the death of her mother. She is ignored by her father and the kingdom and she prefers it that way… at least until her brother returns and Briar’s life gets very interesting. Court intrigue abounds as Briar witnesses corrupt deeds, murder, and the induction of deadly marriage trials for her hand all with hidden intentions.
When Briar decides to fight for her own hand by entering the marriage trials, she meets not only new and unlikely friends but also enemies and a love interest. There’s something familiar about Silas and something else entirely that runs deeper than they know. Briar and her found family work together to survive, unravel the mysteries of the king’s plans, and stop a ritual set to release the gods.
I loved the trials and the Princes. I thought they were unique and each had a delightful impact upon Briar as she worked her way into deserving her queenhood.
Tropes you may find in TTOD are deadly trials, arranged marriage, shadow and light powers, fated mates?, hidden identities, unlikely allis, reluctant hero, medium spice, monsters, plot twists, found family and a cliffhanger that opens up intrigue into the path and relationships of what lies ahead.
Thank you, Kathryn, for this gifted arc. It was a pleasure.
Brave meets Goblet of Fire trials but make it adult and spicy in this tale of shadow and light by Kathryn Breaux.
In TTOD, we follow the first person POV of Princess Briar who has been hiding within her castle and suppressing her shadow magic for five years, since the death of her mother. She is ignored by her father and the kingdom and she prefers it that way… at least until her brother returns and Briar’s life gets very interesting. Court intrigue abounds as Briar witnesses corrupt deeds, murder, and the induction of deadly marriage trials for her hand all with hidden intentions.
When Briar decides to fight for her own hand by entering the marriage trials, she meets not only new and unlikely friends but also enemies and a love interest. There’s something familiar about Silas and something else entirely that runs deeper than they know. Briar and her found family work together to survive, unravel the mysteries of the king’s plans, and stop a ritual set to release the gods.
I loved the trials and the Princes. I thought they were unique and each had a delightful impact upon Briar as she worked her way into deserving her queenhood.
Tropes you may find in TTOD are deadly trials, arranged marriage, shadow and light powers, fated mates?, hidden identities, unlikely allis, reluctant hero, medium spice, monsters, plot twists, found family and a cliffhanger that opens up intrigue into the path and relationships of what lies ahead.
Thank you, Kathryn, for this gifted arc. It was a pleasure.
February 4, 2025
3.5⭐️
*I did receive this book as an ARC and am a part of the street team*
This was an introductory novel by Kathryn and had some of my favorite tropes such as deadly trials, shadow-wielders, witty banter, and morally grey FMC/MMC. With that being said:
Things I enjoyed: First of all if you start off the series with a map you already have at least 1 star from me, we love a good map 😂 also the dedication “To anyone who’s felt lost in the shadows” also hit me hard too. The series had an interesting and engaging plot as well as some plot twists I did not see coming and helped to keep the story going. I also think the trials were paced well throughout the story and there were some mystery components to the plot that kept you guessing on what was going on. The side characters also helped add to the overall charm of the book and added some comedic relief to the story. The spicy scenes were also done tastefully and did not have that cringe factors that I feel can come with an introductory novel.
Things I didn’t love: the amount of exclamation marks 😅 listen it could just be a personal thing but the exclamation marks were overwhelming at points, and unnecessary to the dialogue. I also wish the magic system was described slightly more. Now the overall world building was done well at the beginning for the territories and such, but they way the actual magic worked itself when it came to the markings and healing parts I was a little lost. I also did not feel a huge connection with any of the MMC as I feel like we just did not get a chance to know him well before he was in love with Briar and their relationship seemed to move super fast (which could also just be a me problem as I am a slow burn girlie). Sometimes I also felt like the dialogue was just a little choppy or just jumped quickly from one thing to the next.
Overall I did enjoy this book and would recommend for those who enjoy a quicker love story, intense plot, fun side characters, and some twists and turns!
*I did receive this book as an ARC and am a part of the street team*
This was an introductory novel by Kathryn and had some of my favorite tropes such as deadly trials, shadow-wielders, witty banter, and morally grey FMC/MMC. With that being said:
Things I enjoyed: First of all if you start off the series with a map you already have at least 1 star from me, we love a good map 😂 also the dedication “To anyone who’s felt lost in the shadows” also hit me hard too. The series had an interesting and engaging plot as well as some plot twists I did not see coming and helped to keep the story going. I also think the trials were paced well throughout the story and there were some mystery components to the plot that kept you guessing on what was going on. The side characters also helped add to the overall charm of the book and added some comedic relief to the story. The spicy scenes were also done tastefully and did not have that cringe factors that I feel can come with an introductory novel.
Things I didn’t love: the amount of exclamation marks 😅 listen it could just be a personal thing but the exclamation marks were overwhelming at points, and unnecessary to the dialogue. I also wish the magic system was described slightly more. Now the overall world building was done well at the beginning for the territories and such, but they way the actual magic worked itself when it came to the markings and healing parts I was a little lost. I also did not feel a huge connection with any of the MMC as I feel like we just did not get a chance to know him well before he was in love with Briar and their relationship seemed to move super fast (which could also just be a me problem as I am a slow burn girlie). Sometimes I also felt like the dialogue was just a little choppy or just jumped quickly from one thing to the next.
Overall I did enjoy this book and would recommend for those who enjoy a quicker love story, intense plot, fun side characters, and some twists and turns!
January 22, 2025
The Trials of Darkness by Kathryn Breaux is a testament to female power and strength. It is a tale of a princess living her life hidden in the shadows, trying her best to blend in and survive. A tale of a princess defying her life circumstances, her father and king, her role as a mere female royal unworthy of anything more. A tale of a princess taking her life into her own hands, fighting in the trials meant to find her a suitable match and marry her off. A tale of a princess recognizing her worth and her powers.
Kathryn told an intricate tale of bleak surroundings, hidden truths, and buried secrets. And it is up to Briar, the FMC, to try and uncover them all with the help of her found family. Add to the mix a mysterious shadow-wielding prince who seems to recognize the most inner depths of Brair's soul and let the trials begin.
As we further progress in the story, we slowly uncover that there is so much more at stake than Briar's hand in marriage. Long-lost gods and long-forgotten rivalries are brought back into the picture, and the race begins with time for Briar and her allies to uncover the truths and stop dark rituals from taking place. The book's final part will set everything in motion and bring the past forward, setting the stage for events yet to occur, and I am so curious about what's to come next.
The Trials of Darkness will be released on February 3rd. Thank you, Kathryn, for having me as your ARC reader; it was a pleasure.
Kathryn told an intricate tale of bleak surroundings, hidden truths, and buried secrets. And it is up to Briar, the FMC, to try and uncover them all with the help of her found family. Add to the mix a mysterious shadow-wielding prince who seems to recognize the most inner depths of Brair's soul and let the trials begin.
As we further progress in the story, we slowly uncover that there is so much more at stake than Briar's hand in marriage. Long-lost gods and long-forgotten rivalries are brought back into the picture, and the race begins with time for Briar and her allies to uncover the truths and stop dark rituals from taking place. The book's final part will set everything in motion and bring the past forward, setting the stage for events yet to occur, and I am so curious about what's to come next.
The Trials of Darkness will be released on February 3rd. Thank you, Kathryn, for having me as your ARC reader; it was a pleasure.
September 10, 2025
That ending! I feel like Klaus running through the house yelling Rebecca, but I’m yelling KATHRYN!
February 8, 2025
Female power, destiny, and strength— a romantasy delight! I absolutely loved this read in every aspect. Briar is an absolute badass.
Thank you to Kathryn Breaux and her team for sending me an e-arc!✨🖤
Thank you to Kathryn Breaux and her team for sending me an e-arc!✨🖤
February 3, 2025
2.5 ⭐ rounded up
I was intrigued by the plot, characters, and magic system. I love a “girl decides to take on her own destiny” storyline. The magic system used shadows and light, mixed with rituals for more powerful and ancient magic, which was an interesting concept. The descriptions were amazing. However, I struggled with the writing style. It felt choppy and disjointed at times. There were times where I was confused by what was happening because it happened so abruptly or without much build up. An example of this was the romance between Silas and Briar; I love the reason behind their quick connection, but the way they connected and quickly moved into intimacy just felt rushed. Overall, the story is there, but the delivery could benefit from slowing it down some and providing more introduction into the new elements.
I was intrigued by the plot, characters, and magic system. I love a “girl decides to take on her own destiny” storyline. The magic system used shadows and light, mixed with rituals for more powerful and ancient magic, which was an interesting concept. The descriptions were amazing. However, I struggled with the writing style. It felt choppy and disjointed at times. There were times where I was confused by what was happening because it happened so abruptly or without much build up. An example of this was the romance between Silas and Briar; I love the reason behind their quick connection, but the way they connected and quickly moved into intimacy just felt rushed. Overall, the story is there, but the delivery could benefit from slowing it down some and providing more introduction into the new elements.
January 30, 2025
I really wanted to like this. It had so much potential, cool elements, trials and games, mystery, etc. I think this needed a few more rounds of editing to flush out the disconnection and extreme jumps then this book could really be something because it has all the potential!
January 6, 2025
9/10 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 🌶️
Made for fans of Di$n3y’s Brave, Shadow & Bones, and The Hunger Games. I was captivated from the start!
The Trails of Darkness follows Briar, princess of Dramaveer, on her journey to free herself from her fathers strong arm. When he suddenly announces that a competition will be held to fight for her hand in marriage, she knows she must fight to have her own voice. She sneaks into the competition and is thrust into challenges she may not be ready to face. As she fights for her life and her own destiny, she uncovers truths and darkness hidden deep within her. Her suitors make a stand to either stand with her or against her, and she must fully accept who she is to beat her father at his own game. She fights in 4 trials, all while uncovering truths from the past about her mother, her father, and her ancestors.
This story had me sucked in from the beginning. Meeting Briar’s suitors, watching their interactions and casting my vote for who she should be with as their relationships develop. As Briar matures and finds more power within her, she also learns to trust her friends with her secrets and help her along the way. Her best friend, Maines, always backs her, making it known she’d stand by Briar against all enemies- foreign and domestic. Silas (my new shadow daddy crush) immediately feels drawn to Briar and protective over her. The dark and deadly Thatcher constantly threatening Briar, has made it known that he intends to win her hand and force her to do his bidding. This book has it all: fantastical creatures, light & dark magic, family trauma, love, friendship, found family, shadows daddies, and heart break. The book ends on a cliffhanger and I NEED MORE!! I’m so excited to see how their journey continues.
A few memorable quotes:
“… What happened in my past doesn’t define who I am now. And moving forward is the only way we can move…”
“You will be my only God, Briar. I will happily praise and bow to you nightly, so you desire. Say the word and I’m yours.”
“I’d risk my life over and over again for the things you care deeply for, Briar.”
Made for fans of Di$n3y’s Brave, Shadow & Bones, and The Hunger Games. I was captivated from the start!
The Trails of Darkness follows Briar, princess of Dramaveer, on her journey to free herself from her fathers strong arm. When he suddenly announces that a competition will be held to fight for her hand in marriage, she knows she must fight to have her own voice. She sneaks into the competition and is thrust into challenges she may not be ready to face. As she fights for her life and her own destiny, she uncovers truths and darkness hidden deep within her. Her suitors make a stand to either stand with her or against her, and she must fully accept who she is to beat her father at his own game. She fights in 4 trials, all while uncovering truths from the past about her mother, her father, and her ancestors.
This story had me sucked in from the beginning. Meeting Briar’s suitors, watching their interactions and casting my vote for who she should be with as their relationships develop. As Briar matures and finds more power within her, she also learns to trust her friends with her secrets and help her along the way. Her best friend, Maines, always backs her, making it known she’d stand by Briar against all enemies- foreign and domestic. Silas (my new shadow daddy crush) immediately feels drawn to Briar and protective over her. The dark and deadly Thatcher constantly threatening Briar, has made it known that he intends to win her hand and force her to do his bidding. This book has it all: fantastical creatures, light & dark magic, family trauma, love, friendship, found family, shadows daddies, and heart break. The book ends on a cliffhanger and I NEED MORE!! I’m so excited to see how their journey continues.
A few memorable quotes:
“… What happened in my past doesn’t define who I am now. And moving forward is the only way we can move…”
“You will be my only God, Briar. I will happily praise and bow to you nightly, so you desire. Say the word and I’m yours.”
“I’d risk my life over and over again for the things you care deeply for, Briar.”
September 11, 2025
It starts off following the storyline of the movie Brave. I really liked that take because that was my favorite part of the movie. The book tells us quite a few things about the dark magic in this world, I’m excited to learn more about the light magic in the next book. There is a lot of family trauma, oppression, darkness, death… The FMC keeps her magic locked up (afraid to use it after her mother’s passing), afraid to set it free for good reason but when she finally comes to her own, she’s able to control it and keep it from taking over. She has strength not only in herself (having endured all the ridicule from family and others for shutting away her magic) but also in her new found family. That trials that lead to the endgame was a nice surprise that I did not see coming. The cliffhanger is a whole 360 as she is now the one calling for him.
Thank you Kathryn Breaux for sending me this ARC! I can’t wait to read about the new nightmares!
Thank you Kathryn Breaux for sending me this ARC! I can’t wait to read about the new nightmares!
February 7, 2025
"I vow to protect you, to worship you, and to always bow to you as my God, my queen."
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌟
What a debut from Kathryn Breaux!
I loved the Goblet of Fire vibes we got through these trials!
Briar was a fierce FMC who I absolutely adored. I will absolutely die for her channeling her inner Merida to fight for her own hand.
All the secondary characters also had roles to play, and supported Briar through thick and thin.
Don't even get me started on my man Silas.
This book was such an easy read, while still maintaining in depth world building, laced with twists, turns, and mystery.
I ate up every single moment - there was never a dull one.
I'm excited to see where this series goes!
That ending has me ready and waiting for book 2!
Thank you Kathryn for the opportunity to read this eARC.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌟
What a debut from Kathryn Breaux!
I loved the Goblet of Fire vibes we got through these trials!
Briar was a fierce FMC who I absolutely adored. I will absolutely die for her channeling her inner Merida to fight for her own hand.
All the secondary characters also had roles to play, and supported Briar through thick and thin.
Don't even get me started on my man Silas.
This book was such an easy read, while still maintaining in depth world building, laced with twists, turns, and mystery.
I ate up every single moment - there was never a dull one.
I'm excited to see where this series goes!
That ending has me ready and waiting for book 2!
Thank you Kathryn for the opportunity to read this eARC.
January 28, 2025
My opening message in Kathryn's DMs was "EXCUSE ME MAA'M" followed by a gif of Greta Thunberg saying "How dare you!" Then I threatened to curse her family line.
Why did I do that, you may ask? Well, this dark and captivating debut is JUST THAT GOOD. She caught me hook, line, and sinker. Kathryn's storytelling is incredible, painting vivid pictures not only of the scenes, but the characters themselves. When they hurt, I hurt. When they smiled, I smiled.
Briar, our FMC, has pushed down her magic after her mother passes, and is a disappointment to her father - the King - which he never fails to express. Briar's struggle both with grief and with being hated really showcases Kathryn's ability to make me FEEL THINGS.
The introduction of the Trials for Briar's hand in marriage forces her to take matters into her own hands to be in charge of her own future. Things get very bad before they get better.... Oh wait, we're left on a cliffhanger for this first book in a series, so I'm not sure when they will get better. And that's what lead to those DMs.
I really liked all of the characters! The dark and twisty ones were fun, the villains were awful enough to make me curse at them, and our good guys were compellingly good.
The secrets, the betrayal, the romance... this book had it all. And I can't wait to read more.
Thank you to Kathryn for the ARC of this book! My opinions are my own.
Why did I do that, you may ask? Well, this dark and captivating debut is JUST THAT GOOD. She caught me hook, line, and sinker. Kathryn's storytelling is incredible, painting vivid pictures not only of the scenes, but the characters themselves. When they hurt, I hurt. When they smiled, I smiled.
Briar, our FMC, has pushed down her magic after her mother passes, and is a disappointment to her father - the King - which he never fails to express. Briar's struggle both with grief and with being hated really showcases Kathryn's ability to make me FEEL THINGS.
The introduction of the Trials for Briar's hand in marriage forces her to take matters into her own hands to be in charge of her own future. Things get very bad before they get better.... Oh wait, we're left on a cliffhanger for this first book in a series, so I'm not sure when they will get better. And that's what lead to those DMs.
I really liked all of the characters! The dark and twisty ones were fun, the villains were awful enough to make me curse at them, and our good guys were compellingly good.
The secrets, the betrayal, the romance... this book had it all. And I can't wait to read more.
Thank you to Kathryn for the ARC of this book! My opinions are my own.
February 9, 2025
I loved the idea behind this book a ton. Briar's perseverance in so many horrible situations is admirable. I thoroughly enjoyed the magic world in this book. I find it to be unique in a world of fantasy books that are out there. The shifting alone is something I find like a major benefit that adds to this story in an unexpected way. Maise & Oak are great side/main characters. Silas is the epitome of shadow daddy. There's some spice in the book. Also, major found family vibes. There's some interesting twists to the storyline that draw you further into the story. If you're looking for a unique fantasy book, that's a series and some spice. I would give this book a read or add it to your TBR.
September 26, 2025
2 Stars ⭐️⭐️
I really wanted to love The Trials of Darkness because it had so much potential. Trials, games, mystery, dark vibes… all the things I usually eat up. But somewhere along the way it just… didn’t click for me.
The story felt jumpy. Some parts were gorgeous and immersive, and then other parts just kind of… zipped by like they didn’t matter. The dialogue had such a juvenile energy it made it impossible for me to take the romance seriously. The high stakes and unique ideas are definitely here, but the pacing felt rushed and the romance? Not buying it.
That said… I do think there’s a lot of potential. Kathryn Breaux is great at building atmosphere but this one just wasn’t for me.
I really wanted to love The Trials of Darkness because it had so much potential. Trials, games, mystery, dark vibes… all the things I usually eat up. But somewhere along the way it just… didn’t click for me.
The story felt jumpy. Some parts were gorgeous and immersive, and then other parts just kind of… zipped by like they didn’t matter. The dialogue had such a juvenile energy it made it impossible for me to take the romance seriously. The high stakes and unique ideas are definitely here, but the pacing felt rushed and the romance? Not buying it.
That said… I do think there’s a lot of potential. Kathryn Breaux is great at building atmosphere but this one just wasn’t for me.
September 22, 2025
Brave meets deadly trials with spice...what a wild romantasy.
After her mother dies, Briar hides herself and her magic from the world, but when her father announces a set of deadly trials will take place with the prize being Briars hand in marriage, she decides to fight for herself and ensure that she is in control of her future and who she falls in love with. When the "Prince of Darkness" himself shows to compete in these trials both of them feel the pull towards each other. With secrets around every corner, Briar will have to learn to trust herself and her new friends in order to survive. I loved every word of this romantasy, the magic system is unique, the characters are easy to love and the romance and yearning is top notch. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
Tropes include
Deadly trials
Shadow Daddy/Mommy
Found Family
After her mother dies, Briar hides herself and her magic from the world, but when her father announces a set of deadly trials will take place with the prize being Briars hand in marriage, she decides to fight for herself and ensure that she is in control of her future and who she falls in love with. When the "Prince of Darkness" himself shows to compete in these trials both of them feel the pull towards each other. With secrets around every corner, Briar will have to learn to trust herself and her new friends in order to survive. I loved every word of this romantasy, the magic system is unique, the characters are easy to love and the romance and yearning is top notch. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
Tropes include
Deadly trials
Shadow Daddy/Mommy
Found Family
February 17, 2025
If you liked Brave (yes the Disney movie!) and One Dark Window, then you’ll love Trials of Darkness 🖤 Briar is our FMC who is a Shadow Wielder in a broken kingdom. There are many MMCs who play a key part within the book, but our main guy is the green eyed hunk Silas 🫣 together, they must piece together and stop a corruption that’s brewing within the kingdom. For a debut novel, the storyline is well written and easy to read. Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot!!
August 11, 2024
5 🌟// 3 🌶️
If you are a Romantasy lover, you NEED to read this! I had the pleasure of Beta reading this beautiful book and it is full of romance, suspense, thrill, and will have you wondering what’s next. The charachters are so well developed and hold beautiful displays of strength, love, and friendship.
The female main character, Briar is such an empowering and powerful force! Be prepared, you’ll certainly acquire a new shadow Daddy during this read 🖤
I can’t wait to see what’s next and read the next book in this series!!! 📚👌🖤🌶️
If you are a Romantasy lover, you NEED to read this! I had the pleasure of Beta reading this beautiful book and it is full of romance, suspense, thrill, and will have you wondering what’s next. The charachters are so well developed and hold beautiful displays of strength, love, and friendship.
The female main character, Briar is such an empowering and powerful force! Be prepared, you’ll certainly acquire a new shadow Daddy during this read 🖤
I can’t wait to see what’s next and read the next book in this series!!! 📚👌🖤🌶️
January 19, 2025
This book gives some serious Goblet of Fire trials vibes but with a super dark twist. I loved reading this because the FMC was a complete bad a**. Plus, she’s a SHADOW MOMMY 😩 This book ends on a cliffhanger that emotionally wrecked me and I am eagerly awaiting book 2. Even though that one will probably destroy me too.
Which means you know I recommend it.
Which means you know I recommend it.
February 4, 2025
I so admire the imagination of authors, fantasy writers like Breaux even more so because they give us an entire world where we have never been and probably never conceived of before. Breaux’s Kingdom of Daramveer is one of those worlds.
In this dark world, a princess has kept herself hidden away in her rooms, refusing to use the magic within her, afraid of the darkness that may consume her. She battles this throughout the novel as she decides who she can trust, and who should trust her. She is a complex, forceful, beautiful woman that has to make her way from the younger woman she was when her mother died to the Queen she is destined to be to rule her kingdom.
This book is filled with magical runes, ritualistic crystals, light wielders and dark wielders, secrets, conspiracies, even a deadly competition for the princesses hand. Breaux brought them all together with strong women, a mother’s love, and deadly trials to keep you on edge. We also get a love story and all the spice that comes with that.
It was quite atmospheric, I could feel fear and oppression, almost taste the bravado in some of the characters. The author did a great job of giving me reasons to hate some characters and well as love others.
Personally, I really dislike cliffhangers that almost force you to read the next book and so many fantasy books end this way. It is a personal preference and in no reflection of the quality of the writing. This book shows great promise for the author and I am excited to see how much she progresses over the course of her next books.
I so admire the imagination of authors, fantasy writers like Breaux even more so because they give us an entire world where we have never been and probably never conceived of before. Breaux’s Kingdom of Daramveer is one of those worlds.
In this dark world, a princess has kept herself hidden away in her rooms, refusing to use the magic within her, afraid of the darkness that may consume her. She battles this throughout the novel as she decides who she can trust, and who should trust her. She is a complex, forceful, beautiful woman that has to make her way from the younger woman she was when her mother died to the Queen she is destined to be to rule her kingdom.
This book is filled with magical runes, ritualistic crystals, light wielders and dark wielders, secrets, conspiracies, even a deadly competition for the princesses hand. Breaux brought them all together with strong women, a mother’s love, and deadly trials to keep you on edge. We also get a love story and all the spice that comes with that.
It was quite atmospheric, I could feel fear and oppression, almost taste the bravado in some of the characters. The author did a great job of giving me reasons to hate some characters and well as love others.
Personally, I really dislike cliffhangers that almost force you to read the next book and so many fantasy books end this way. It is a personal preference and in no reflection of the quality of the writing. This book shows great promise for the author and I am excited to see how much she progresses over the course of her next books.
January 23, 2025
I was sold on deadly trials.. A princess who stands up for herself and what's right.. some bad ass magic that costs everyone.. the fated mate that hasn't been fully recognised yet.. the world and character building within this book is amazing and the storyline kept me turning pages all the way until the end!!
May 8, 2025
Wow. Just wow!! I am serious. This book had my captivated!!! So much happens. So empowering and so much badass-ery from the FMC. The MMC might be one of my top 10 at this point. Cannot wait till book 2!!!!!
It’s dark and twisted but in the best of ways!! I love the creatures. I love the magic. I love the trials!!
An epic MUST read!!
It’s dark and twisted but in the best of ways!! I love the creatures. I love the magic. I love the trials!!
An epic MUST read!!
January 25, 2025
I loved that, Briar, the FMC in TTOD is a 27 year old morally gray, stabby female with a traumatic past. It sets the story up with a strong and determined, yet flawed MC who as a reader you can get behind!
This story has some heartbreak… There was a moment I sensed was coming but kept hoping it wouldn’t happen. Then it did, and I was like—NO! It was necessary for Briar to reawaken her gifts and it set the tone and pace for this dark fantasy romance. I found myself eager to see what happened.
This story is dark with some laughs, and rage (we cannot forget the rage). If you are a lover of: morally gray characters, ritualistic magic, emotional damage, shadow wielders, he falls first, touch him/or her and 💀 all within a new world and featuring a unique magical system then TTOD is a book you’ll find yourself devouring.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️
This story has some heartbreak… There was a moment I sensed was coming but kept hoping it wouldn’t happen. Then it did, and I was like—NO! It was necessary for Briar to reawaken her gifts and it set the tone and pace for this dark fantasy romance. I found myself eager to see what happened.
This story is dark with some laughs, and rage (we cannot forget the rage). If you are a lover of: morally gray characters, ritualistic magic, emotional damage, shadow wielders, he falls first, touch him/or her and 💀 all within a new world and featuring a unique magical system then TTOD is a book you’ll find yourself devouring.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️
August 9, 2024
I was given a chance to read The Trials of Darkness as a beta reader. It was such a fun experience, and this book, OMG!!!! I was captivated by the FMC Briar and her strength going through the trials. I literally can't wait to read this again when it's officially released!!
January 20, 2025
What an outstanding debut! I finished the entire thing in a day!
The Trials of Darkness gives you a bad ass FMC that, after several years of trying to hide away from her father’s darkness as well as her own, takes her life into her own hands. New magical creatures that will haunt your dreams, love, found family, friendships, heartbreak and best of all…a new shadow daddy. Oh and it has every emotion from pure hatred to heartbreak to joy to love to utter shock and terror. This book will definitely leave you with an emotional hangover and begging for more (in more was than one). 😉Briar, lost her mother 5 years ago and vowed to never wield her shadow magic again. But now her father has decided to hold trials to win her hand in marriage and solidify an alliance that will only benefit himself. Going against him she enters herself in the trials to free herself from his control but will test the limits she is willing to go to win and survive. Her suitors have to decide to fight with her or against her in trials more dark and deadly than they could have ever imagined.
This book has deadly trials, people who will stop at nothing to gain more power and others who will stop at nothing to protect what they love. Darkness lurks around every corner of the castle, waters and forests. No one is safe from what the trials and king have in store. Throughout the trials Briar and her friends fight to uncover the kings true intentions behind the trials, discovering many secrets along the way. Who can be trusted among them and who is a wolf in sheep’s clothes. This book will suck you in and keep you up all night wanting to uncover the truth for yourself.
The Trials of Darkness is the perfect book for those who love a good Romantasy series but needs something different and dark!
I absolutely cannot wait for Breaux to put out book two! It cannot happen fast enough because seriously I cannot handle the cliffhanger and what is going to happen next!
Thank you again Kathryn Breaux for the opportunity to read and review this book before it is published in return for my honest review and thoughts.
The Trials of Darkness gives you a bad ass FMC that, after several years of trying to hide away from her father’s darkness as well as her own, takes her life into her own hands. New magical creatures that will haunt your dreams, love, found family, friendships, heartbreak and best of all…a new shadow daddy. Oh and it has every emotion from pure hatred to heartbreak to joy to love to utter shock and terror. This book will definitely leave you with an emotional hangover and begging for more (in more was than one). 😉Briar, lost her mother 5 years ago and vowed to never wield her shadow magic again. But now her father has decided to hold trials to win her hand in marriage and solidify an alliance that will only benefit himself. Going against him she enters herself in the trials to free herself from his control but will test the limits she is willing to go to win and survive. Her suitors have to decide to fight with her or against her in trials more dark and deadly than they could have ever imagined.
This book has deadly trials, people who will stop at nothing to gain more power and others who will stop at nothing to protect what they love. Darkness lurks around every corner of the castle, waters and forests. No one is safe from what the trials and king have in store. Throughout the trials Briar and her friends fight to uncover the kings true intentions behind the trials, discovering many secrets along the way. Who can be trusted among them and who is a wolf in sheep’s clothes. This book will suck you in and keep you up all night wanting to uncover the truth for yourself.
The Trials of Darkness is the perfect book for those who love a good Romantasy series but needs something different and dark!
I absolutely cannot wait for Breaux to put out book two! It cannot happen fast enough because seriously I cannot handle the cliffhanger and what is going to happen next!
Thank you again Kathryn Breaux for the opportunity to read and review this book before it is published in return for my honest review and thoughts.
January 30, 2025
The plot was interesting and I loved the deadly trials where she’s fighting for her own hand in marriage. There were twists and turns I didn’t expect especially with the trials turning into something so much more. The world building was detailed and we get unique magic along with the FMC having shadow powers which I really liked.
I really like Briar and Silas’s characters. She is strong, determined and fights for herself and what’s right alongside her found family which are great themselves. He is protective and secretive, always looking out for her. I would’ve liked a bit more tension and banter between them in the beginning.
I really enjoyed this book and the cliffhanger has me excited to read what comes next.
I really like Briar and Silas’s characters. She is strong, determined and fights for herself and what’s right alongside her found family which are great themselves. He is protective and secretive, always looking out for her. I would’ve liked a bit more tension and banter between them in the beginning.
I really enjoyed this book and the cliffhanger has me excited to read what comes next.
February 2, 2025
I enjoyed reading this! I love Romantasy and this is perfect! The only thing I can point out is the excessive use of exclamation marks.
March 18, 2025
“Now, you are going to stay still until I tell you to move. Do you understand?” I giggle, excitement making my heart race. “I understand,” I nod. His eyes darken as he licks his lips. “Fantastic.”.
No. Sorry, I regret the read.
It seems I'm reading a fantasy that morphs into a contemporary romance and then morphs into fantasy again.
Where is the pining the dialog says there is? Where are the other layers of pain and forced separation that proves us there's pining and tension?
Why are characters being good for the sake of being good?
Unreliable narrator? A bit. There is foreshadowing, so that is alright.
There's novelty so that is very good. There's some high-stakes, that is good.
FMC traits:
goody two-shoes (not for the entire book)
unreliable
MMC traits:
No ideia
Plot twist that was so good:
What our FMC reveals at the end. Female rage
Plot twists that were lazy:
Found family bounds (the author really tried to make a foundation, but no)
The romance
🍆🍆 out of 5
⭐⭐ out of 5
No. Sorry, I regret the read.
It seems I'm reading a fantasy that morphs into a contemporary romance and then morphs into fantasy again.
Where is the pining the dialog says there is? Where are the other layers of pain and forced separation that proves us there's pining and tension?
Why are characters being good for the sake of being good?
Unreliable narrator? A bit. There is foreshadowing, so that is alright.
There's novelty so that is very good. There's some high-stakes, that is good.
FMC traits:
goody two-shoes (not for the entire book)
unreliable
MMC traits:
No ideia
Plot twist that was so good:
What our FMC reveals at the end. Female rage
Plot twists that were lazy:
Found family bounds (the author really tried to make a foundation, but no)
The romance
🍆🍆 out of 5
⭐⭐ out of 5
January 21, 2025
Run, don’t walk, to grab this incredible fantasy debut!
The Trials of Darkness by Kathryn Breaux introduces readers to Briar Blackbyrne, a powerful yet relatable protagonist in her late 20s. Living under her father’s oppressive rule in the kingdom of Daramveer, Briar hides a dormant magical legacy passed down from gods and witches—a gift she vowed never to use after the tragic death of her mother. But when her brother returns and dark, ancient magic resurfaces, Briar must confront the shadows of her past and a future full of peril.
The story is further elevated by its dynamic cast. Silas, the brooding and protective shadow wielder, steals the show as our intense male lead (and yes, he’s the ultimate “touch her and die” type). Briar’s healer best friend, Maine, and the golden-hearted light wielder Oak, round out the group with their unique strengths and personalities, creating a balance of tension and camaraderie.
To escape an arranged marriage, Briar enters deadly trials designed for her suitors. These challenges test her strength, willpower, and courage, turning survival itself into the ultimate victory. Breaux seamlessly blends themes of empowerment, mythological intrigue, and dark magic, making this novel a must-read for fans of complex characters and high-stakes fantasy.
If you loved Throne of Glass or The Hunger Games, this book will grab you by the shadows and not let go. With gripping action, immersive world-building, and an ensemble cast you can’t help but root for, The Trials of Darkness is a debut not to miss. I can’t wait to see where Briar’s journey takes us next!
The Trials of Darkness by Kathryn Breaux introduces readers to Briar Blackbyrne, a powerful yet relatable protagonist in her late 20s. Living under her father’s oppressive rule in the kingdom of Daramveer, Briar hides a dormant magical legacy passed down from gods and witches—a gift she vowed never to use after the tragic death of her mother. But when her brother returns and dark, ancient magic resurfaces, Briar must confront the shadows of her past and a future full of peril.
The story is further elevated by its dynamic cast. Silas, the brooding and protective shadow wielder, steals the show as our intense male lead (and yes, he’s the ultimate “touch her and die” type). Briar’s healer best friend, Maine, and the golden-hearted light wielder Oak, round out the group with their unique strengths and personalities, creating a balance of tension and camaraderie.
To escape an arranged marriage, Briar enters deadly trials designed for her suitors. These challenges test her strength, willpower, and courage, turning survival itself into the ultimate victory. Breaux seamlessly blends themes of empowerment, mythological intrigue, and dark magic, making this novel a must-read for fans of complex characters and high-stakes fantasy.
If you loved Throne of Glass or The Hunger Games, this book will grab you by the shadows and not let go. With gripping action, immersive world-building, and an ensemble cast you can’t help but root for, The Trials of Darkness is a debut not to miss. I can’t wait to see where Briar’s journey takes us next!
August 3, 2025
So many mysteries surrounding the characters throughout the book! I was wildly entertained.
There was a lot that happened in this book and yet it just kept flowing so easily! I really enjoyed reading this.
The characters were great and I loved the found family aspects.
Also THE BANTER between Briar and Silas was top notch! He said so many swoony things while also being that hot crazy protective MMC we all want...and with shadow powers!
We got a good amount of different types of magic here and crystal magic! I love crystals! I hope we explore that even more in the next installment!
Read if you love:
-Deadly trials
-Kick@ss FMC
-Crystal Magic
-Shadows & light magic
-Found family
-Touch her/him and d!e
Thank you to the author for the eARC. My thoughts are entirely my own.
Finish date: 1/29/25, Release date: 2/3/25
There was a lot that happened in this book and yet it just kept flowing so easily! I really enjoyed reading this.
The characters were great and I loved the found family aspects.
Also THE BANTER between Briar and Silas was top notch! He said so many swoony things while also being that hot crazy protective MMC we all want...and with shadow powers!
We got a good amount of different types of magic here and crystal magic! I love crystals! I hope we explore that even more in the next installment!
Read if you love:
-Deadly trials
-Kick@ss FMC
-Crystal Magic
-Shadows & light magic
-Found family
-Touch her/him and d!e
Thank you to the author for the eARC. My thoughts are entirely my own.
Finish date: 1/29/25, Release date: 2/3/25
January 23, 2025
This book is such a good time!! You will worry, you will laugh, you will cry…. I love the story, I love the characters (Oak 😘), I love the magic and overall world. AND THE ENDING 🤯😳. It has me feral for book 2!!
I’m so impressed with Kathryn for coming up with all of this! I am in awe of you and your creative mind! YOU WROTE A FREAKING BOOK OH MY GOSH THATS SO COOL!!!
I’m so impressed with Kathryn for coming up with all of this! I am in awe of you and your creative mind! YOU WROTE A FREAKING BOOK OH MY GOSH THATS SO COOL!!!
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