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War Hour
»Die Rote Königin« trifft auf die »Hunger Games« – Romantasy at its best!
+++Jetzt zum Einführungspreis sichern! (Befristete Preisaktion des Verlages)+++
An den Höfen von Aloria werden magische Kräfte nicht angeboren, sondern in einem sogenannten Trialing erworben. Und Lysta lebt in ständiger Angst vor der Prüfung, deren Siegern zwar Fähigkeiten verliehen werden – die aber in den meisten Fällen tödlich endet. Gegen ihren Willen wird sie zur Prüfung gezwungen und dadurch zu einer Waffe gemacht, die der Herrscher ihres Hofes gegen die anderen Herrscher einsetzen will. Da bietet ein Spion von einem der anderen Höfe ihr die Möglichkeit, dies zu verhindern. Aber kann sie den Plänen eines Mannes trauen, von dem sie nicht weiß, ob er Freund oder Feind ist? Rasant, actionreich und voller Wendungen und Verrat – der fesselnde Auftakt zur »Broken Trials«-Reihe!Alle Bände der
War Hour (Band 1)
Valor Born (Band 2, erscheint im März 2026)
+++Jetzt zum Einführungspreis sichern! (Befristete Preisaktion des Verlages)+++
An den Höfen von Aloria werden magische Kräfte nicht angeboren, sondern in einem sogenannten Trialing erworben. Und Lysta lebt in ständiger Angst vor der Prüfung, deren Siegern zwar Fähigkeiten verliehen werden – die aber in den meisten Fällen tödlich endet. Gegen ihren Willen wird sie zur Prüfung gezwungen und dadurch zu einer Waffe gemacht, die der Herrscher ihres Hofes gegen die anderen Herrscher einsetzen will. Da bietet ein Spion von einem der anderen Höfe ihr die Möglichkeit, dies zu verhindern. Aber kann sie den Plänen eines Mannes trauen, von dem sie nicht weiß, ob er Freund oder Feind ist? Rasant, actionreich und voller Wendungen und Verrat – der fesselnde Auftakt zur »Broken Trials«-Reihe!Alle Bände der
War Hour (Band 1)
Valor Born (Band 2, erscheint im März 2026)
472 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2025
678 people are currently reading
25163 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Loscig
2 books492 followersLauren Loscig is the debut author of YA Fantasy, War Hour, first in The Broken Trials series. A lifelong reader and writer, she prefers being enraptured in stories rather than reality, whether that be in books, fanfiction, or her imagination.
She lives in Northeastern Pennsylvania, surrounded by stunning foliage and nature, and is inseparable from her Miniature Aussie, Aurora. If not at home, reading or writing, chances are they’ve headed out for a car ride for iced caramel lattes—the magic behind every scene she writes.
She lives in Northeastern Pennsylvania, surrounded by stunning foliage and nature, and is inseparable from her Miniature Aussie, Aurora. If not at home, reading or writing, chances are they’ve headed out for a car ride for iced caramel lattes—the magic behind every scene she writes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,140 reviews
November 3, 2023
☆ - DNF, will gift to my sworn enemy, I'm only not burning it out of respect to the trees.
☆☆ - Didn't really enjoy it, probably won't recommend it, will hide it behind my math textbook.
☆☆☆ - Enjoyed it, didn't loooove it but it was okay, will recommend it to some people.
☆☆☆☆ - Really liked this book, will definitely recommend (and might buy a collectors edition too).
☆☆☆☆☆ - I'll travel to Madrid just to get this masterpiece signed
4.5/5
I loooved this book. It was amazing, had me reading for hours nonstop, and makes me want to throw my pillow across the room knowing I'll have to wait for a sequel.
The story idea was great, the execution was perfect, and the characters, the betrayals and the super well portrayed Court dinamics were great as well.
I really enjoyed the fact powers were earned, and the way Lauren portrays how the characters develop along the story, working hard for their goals, was amazing. (I aspire to be her, tbh. Its my dream to write my own book.)
Of course, it wasn't perfect. Nothing really is.
One of the critiques I have is that there is so much talk about the trial, and then it lasted only a chapter or two. I kind of thought the book would be a hunger games type thingy but that's on me ig. Not that that's a bad thing, I loved how the story didn't center around the trials and more on the politics and threat of war.
And the last few chapters...
How could you do this to me? I don't know if I can wait a few months for the rest of the story, let alone years!
Seeing as I only got the book yesterday, I think its clear how much I couldnt drop this book. If not, my rumbling stomach should be clue enough. (Yes, I may or may not have skipped lunch - sue me)
I found Lauren's insta through scrolling on reels, didn't think I'd get selected but decided to sign up anyway. Just so happened I got an email exactly at midnight informing me I'd been selected.
I am honoured for having been chosen as an ARC reader, thank you so much!
☆☆ - Didn't really enjoy it, probably won't recommend it, will hide it behind my math textbook.
☆☆☆ - Enjoyed it, didn't loooove it but it was okay, will recommend it to some people.
☆☆☆☆ - Really liked this book, will definitely recommend (and might buy a collectors edition too).
☆☆☆☆☆ - I'll travel to Madrid just to get this masterpiece signed
4.5/5
I loooved this book. It was amazing, had me reading for hours nonstop, and makes me want to throw my pillow across the room knowing I'll have to wait for a sequel.
The story idea was great, the execution was perfect, and the characters, the betrayals and the super well portrayed Court dinamics were great as well.
I really enjoyed the fact powers were earned, and the way Lauren portrays how the characters develop along the story, working hard for their goals, was amazing. (I aspire to be her, tbh. Its my dream to write my own book.)
Of course, it wasn't perfect. Nothing really is.
One of the critiques I have is that there is so much talk about the trial, and then it lasted only a chapter or two. I kind of thought the book would be a hunger games type thingy but that's on me ig. Not that that's a bad thing, I loved how the story didn't center around the trials and more on the politics and threat of war.
And the last few chapters...
How could you do this to me? I don't know if I can wait a few months for the rest of the story, let alone years!
Seeing as I only got the book yesterday, I think its clear how much I couldnt drop this book. If not, my rumbling stomach should be clue enough. (Yes, I may or may not have skipped lunch - sue me)
I found Lauren's insta through scrolling on reels, didn't think I'd get selected but decided to sign up anyway. Just so happened I got an email exactly at midnight informing me I'd been selected.
I am honoured for having been chosen as an ARC reader, thank you so much!
November 10, 2023
4.5/5 ⭐️
0/5 🌶️
Tropes:
~ Who hurt you?
~ Forced proximity
~ Reluctant allies
~ Enemies to lovers
~ Deadly trials
This is definitely a plot heavy fantasy book. There were love interests, so it does have a romance sub plot but it’s definitely not super romance focused. This was fine as it wasn’t advertised as such and I went into it expecting it to be without much romance. I usually don’t read books that are more YA or non-romance so if they’re good enough without, that’s saying something and I WILL read/continue a book if it’s able to capture me as wholeheartedly as this did! 🙌🏼
I loved the court politics and the deadly trials in this YA fantasy, it made this such a page turner - I couldn’t stop! 😍
THE PLOT TWIST. THE CLIFFHANGER. I NEED BOOK TWO IMMEDIATELY! 👏🏼
This gave me Hunger Games and Divergent vibes for sure! ✨
P.S. I love when the “powerless” become powerful. 💥
0/5 🌶️
Tropes:
~ Who hurt you?
~ Forced proximity
~ Reluctant allies
~ Enemies to lovers
~ Deadly trials
This is definitely a plot heavy fantasy book. There were love interests, so it does have a romance sub plot but it’s definitely not super romance focused. This was fine as it wasn’t advertised as such and I went into it expecting it to be without much romance. I usually don’t read books that are more YA or non-romance so if they’re good enough without, that’s saying something and I WILL read/continue a book if it’s able to capture me as wholeheartedly as this did! 🙌🏼
I loved the court politics and the deadly trials in this YA fantasy, it made this such a page turner - I couldn’t stop! 😍
THE PLOT TWIST. THE CLIFFHANGER. I NEED BOOK TWO IMMEDIATELY! 👏🏼
This gave me Hunger Games and Divergent vibes for sure! ✨
P.S. I love when the “powerless” become powerful. 💥
December 26, 2023
DNF - 36% finished chapter 19
I cannot believe how many positive reviews this book has gotten. I really tried to brute force this book to give it a fair review but I just couldn't waste my time which sucks because I was excited for this to come out.
First of all, this story is awkwardly written in present tense for no apparent reason. Present tense can make a story more cinematic and climactic, but the narration is not compelling enough for that to be effective and the action does not last long enough for the tense to be warranted. The writing is sloppy and inelegant. Many details that would help with comprehension are just skipped (like characters entering or leaving a scene). Nothing in this book painted a picture in my head, there is barely any description of people and settings other than hair colour.
All of this build up for our protagonist to face her trial and then the trial is extremely simple and only lasts a chapter. Afterwards she says a few times that she nearly died but I don't buy it. She got bitten once. The only reaction that we get is a scream after the bite, there is no grasping her arm or even any hindrance to her abilities. Like sure, adrenaline or whatever, but her not reacting at all to then saying she nearly died is wrong.
None of the characters feel unique or compelling. They each have 0-1 personality traits. Even Lysta doesn't have a consistent personality; is she sarcastic or short tempered or composed? she shows all 3 traits in a very short time span which doesn't feel believable. Many of the interactions are just exposition that leave questions that aren't interesting enough for me to want to know the answer.
this really just feels like the author read the Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and thought "I could do that" but really couldn't. Please do not take my review as your only reason not to read this book, clearly there are plenty of people who love it, it was just too poorly thought out and too simple for me.
EDIT: just letting people know that this author deletes any negative comments on her Instagram and blocks the accounts that leave them. I mentioned how disappointed I was and now I'm blocked.
I cannot believe how many positive reviews this book has gotten. I really tried to brute force this book to give it a fair review but I just couldn't waste my time which sucks because I was excited for this to come out.
First of all, this story is awkwardly written in present tense for no apparent reason. Present tense can make a story more cinematic and climactic, but the narration is not compelling enough for that to be effective and the action does not last long enough for the tense to be warranted. The writing is sloppy and inelegant. Many details that would help with comprehension are just skipped (like characters entering or leaving a scene). Nothing in this book painted a picture in my head, there is barely any description of people and settings other than hair colour.
All of this build up for our protagonist to face her trial and then the trial is extremely simple and only lasts a chapter. Afterwards she says a few times that she nearly died but I don't buy it. She got bitten once. The only reaction that we get is a scream after the bite, there is no grasping her arm or even any hindrance to her abilities. Like sure, adrenaline or whatever, but her not reacting at all to then saying she nearly died is wrong.
None of the characters feel unique or compelling. They each have 0-1 personality traits. Even Lysta doesn't have a consistent personality; is she sarcastic or short tempered or composed? she shows all 3 traits in a very short time span which doesn't feel believable. Many of the interactions are just exposition that leave questions that aren't interesting enough for me to want to know the answer.
this really just feels like the author read the Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and thought "I could do that" but really couldn't. Please do not take my review as your only reason not to read this book, clearly there are plenty of people who love it, it was just too poorly thought out and too simple for me.
EDIT: just letting people know that this author deletes any negative comments on her Instagram and blocks the accounts that leave them. I mentioned how disappointed I was and now I'm blocked.
November 26, 2023
THAT PLOT TWIST WAS A CRIME! THAT CLIFFHANGER WAS A CRIME! THIS WHOLE DAMN BOOK IS A CRIME! LAUREN LOSCIG U R A CRIMINAL!
I will be purchasing the hard copy.
I finished this book last night and I CANNOT stop thinking about it. Like HOWWWW???? WHYYY???? WHO IS ALIVE??? WHO IS ACTUALLY EVIL??? This book literally has everything from romance to murder. The murder wasn’t nice though. The murder was really really sad. I was very sad. It made me want to become a murderer myself. Anyways, this book is so well written and I will literally be recommending is to allllllll my friends.
I will be purchasing the hard copy.
I finished this book last night and I CANNOT stop thinking about it. Like HOWWWW???? WHYYY???? WHO IS ALIVE??? WHO IS ACTUALLY EVIL??? This book literally has everything from romance to murder. The murder wasn’t nice though. The murder was really really sad. I was very sad. It made me want to become a murderer myself. Anyways, this book is so well written and I will literally be recommending is to allllllll my friends.
November 16, 2023
The story is good, but it needs to be flushed out more. She really needs an editor. She struggled often with noun verb agreement, and this made reading confusing. She also has many sentences and sentence fragments that I could not understand for the life of me, and it was often difficult to figure out what she was trying to say. Overall, this was of first draft quality, not ready to be published. I wish I could give a better review, but I'm trying to be completely transparent, so I can't justify giving this book more stars. I have hope for future books as the author hones her craft.
November 4, 2023
"War is coming, and it will not confine itself to an hour."
🗡 Unique Magic System
🗡 Deadly Trails
🗡 Political Intrigue
🗡 Reluctant Allies
🗡 Found Family
🗡 Touch of Love Triangle
🗡 Twists and Betrayals
🗡 Cliffhanger
🗡 FMC POV, First Person
🗡 No spice, clean (subplot) romance
Obsessed! Pre-ordered hardcover with overlays immediately - a must-have for my physical collection!
This will be a book that I will wholeheartedly recommend to others in an instant and definitely would reread! ✨️
I can't wait for the next book to see where the story goes... THAT cliffhanger has me wanting the 2nd book like yesterday!
Thank you so much to the author for an eARC copy. This is my honest opinion and thoughts.
🗡 Unique Magic System
🗡 Deadly Trails
🗡 Political Intrigue
🗡 Reluctant Allies
🗡 Found Family
🗡 Touch of Love Triangle
🗡 Twists and Betrayals
🗡 Cliffhanger
🗡 FMC POV, First Person
🗡 No spice, clean (subplot) romance
Obsessed! Pre-ordered hardcover with overlays immediately - a must-have for my physical collection!
This will be a book that I will wholeheartedly recommend to others in an instant and definitely would reread! ✨️
I can't wait for the next book to see where the story goes... THAT cliffhanger has me wanting the 2nd book like yesterday!
Thank you so much to the author for an eARC copy. This is my honest opinion and thoughts.
December 9, 2023
Overall the story line and plot was good! I really enjoyed it! There wasn’t a time where I got bored or felt things were being drawn out! Each chapter kept me focused and zoned in. The characters were written so em I didn’t know who to trust. Still don’t lol. I loved that there were multiple powers acquired through the trials and nobody knew them all. Keeps up for the mystery. The trials themselves I enjoyed! Can’t wait to see if Lysta participates in others!
The writing was good! There were times where I thought it was being overly descriptive if people or places. I was confused about the Court of Self and why it was called that, hoping there will be more explanation later on!!
I felt the suspense was on a good level. Theories were Just everywhere about who is doing what or what will happen next. This book gave ACOTAR vibes hardcode and that series is one I love! The betrayal, possible love found, emotions, and action were just 🤌🏻.
Evander gives off Tamlin and Dain vibes and honestly he can go fxck himself 🤣🤣.
The writing was good! There were times where I thought it was being overly descriptive if people or places. I was confused about the Court of Self and why it was called that, hoping there will be more explanation later on!!
I felt the suspense was on a good level. Theories were Just everywhere about who is doing what or what will happen next. This book gave ACOTAR vibes hardcode and that series is one I love! The betrayal, possible love found, emotions, and action were just 🤌🏻.
Evander gives off Tamlin and Dain vibes and honestly he can go fxck himself 🤣🤣.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2023
This book was so good! Veerrrryyyyy Plot heavy, had me on the seat of my pants the whole time. Like why am I so nervous?? The side characters and their relationship with Lysta leave something to be desired (cough cough Torryn ) but overall really enjoyed it. Had elements of Red Queen and Divergent. Sad I have to wait to read more honestly. Also I SOOOOOOO appreciate that she's not great at everything? It's so realistic and what other books have tried to be. Kinda like Katniss except unskilled, just plucked from everyday life into scenerio after scenerio. So I guess in that aspect Hunger Games type vibes. She tries her best as she hasn't been trained and I love that actually. Was almost disappointed when she went to the Trial so quickly and the trial itself was so short until those characteristics popped out. I was so engrossed I read it all in 1 sitting. Lysta grows as a character which I appreciate. This is very YA Fantasy so if you like to read that, this is for you.
SPOILERS (Just notes I made while reading on Kindle)
These are my notes from the ARC read. I tried my best to seperate by Chapter and the notes with --. These are just my thoughts as I read alond so :)
Chapter 6
Note - Page 42
"Vomit down"
--I would make myself vomit just so they get dirty hehe
Chapter 7
Note - Page 47
" I brush over the name with my fingers before bringing them to my mouth."
--How she find it so quickly??
Chapter 9
Note - Page 67
“Didn’t ask,” -- Giggled
Chapter 10
Note - Page 70
"His interest in my power taints any excitement I might have had."
--What is a normal power in this world??? Also Divergent vibes from the test lol
Chapter 14
Note - Page 102
"Cracking"
--Giving Red Queen vibes
Chapter 15
Note - Page 112
"Court"
--Weird court names. Acotar ish
Chapter 21
Note - Page 156
--How old is Lysta?
Chapter 22
Note - Page 169
“You’ve been here a day. I didn’t think the first place you’d go traipsing around would be a battle arena!”
--Hehe
Chapter 23
Note - Page 176
“Okay, I’m insulted.”
--Hehe again
Chapter 24
Note - Page 182
"Evander"
--Bit suspicious of Evander
Note - Page 182
"The castle was stifling, and I just needed a break."
--Where is Torryn?!!!
Note - Page 185
"it has the highest death rate of the Trials,"
-- Really want lysta to trial again
Chapter 27
Note - Page 206
"She must be an empath of sorts— able to feel other’s emotions to some degree."
--Hide powers but others do not try so hard to do so?
Chapter 29
Note - Page 228
"“I can’t imagine a world where you would need to feel less than compared to someone else, because I am entirely and unequivocally entranced by you, Lysta.”
--Swoon
Chapter 30
Note - Page 231
"But I can’t swim, and I have no desire to drown."
-- Idk why but i like this sentence
Note - Page 233
“Tell me who did this, and I will take care of it. Anyone who thought they could lay a hand on you should fear for their life.”
--Hehe
Note - Page 235
“You lied, Lysta. It did hurt.”
--He took her pain ?? So cute
Chapter 31
Note - Page 238
"I can’t help but let out a deep breath at the sight of Torryn behind me, Evander a few steps behind him."
--Torryn drugged then Lysta?, something off...plot twist coming? Dont trust Evander tho he cute
Note - Page 241
"...face pinched the moment Lord Bralas accused me of having been seduced by Lord Torryn." ------Love a girls girl
Chapter 33
Note - Page 253
"He hadn’t cared what I’d risked in this— who I’d risked."
--Oof
Chapter 34
Note - Page 261
"The relief spreading through my body is an automatic response. Evander. He’s come after me. I sag against him. My back pressed to his chest."
--This dumb bitch
Note - Page 264
"Heir to a court, with an entire future ahead of him, and I am nothing.”
--Damn
Chapter 35
Note - Page 267
"Torryn, glaring daggers."
--Still dont trust evander but love triangle???
Note - Page 267
"He lets out a cruel laugh before looking at me. “She knows who tried to save things during the hearing.”
--Oooo cat fight
Note - Page 269
“Well, I’m sure you’d prefer it to what I want to call you.”
--Hehe
Note - Page 270
"I can’t lose much more Torryn— I can’t be the one to pay the price for whatever you’re angling for.”
-- :(
Chapter 36
Note - Page 272
"“Actually, I’m trying to schedule us a meeting with Lord Gennady, but he seems to have limited availability. But we will soon. I promise.”
-- Liar liar
Chapter 37
Note - Page 284
"Lord Gennady is giving me a choice, which no one has afforded me thus far."
--Sweet man
Note - Page 286
"“I challenge Lysta, of the Court of Valor.”
--What is even happening????
Chapter 38
Note - Page 287
"The young lord with more Trials under his belt than any other,"
--Dang
Note - Page 287
"against the court, who has been isolated from the capital along with any of Valor’s powers."
--Extended dang
Note - Page 288
"He grabs my chin in his grip,"
-- Squeel
Note - Page 289
"He is the enemy, Lysta."
-- You tell em Torryn
Note - Page 290
"But I’m not the one who needs to be soothed."
-- Dramaaaaaaa
Note - Page 290
"Why is he so against me fighting Torryn?"
--Girl he was hunting you😭
Note - Page 291
"All I want is for it to not be embarrassingly quick."
-- Relatable
Note - Page 295
“Now let’s finish this farce you call war, because there’s a real one waiting for me to make my move.”
--You tell em girl
Chapter 39
Note - Page 300
"Got some fight left after all?"
-- What in the Rhysand
Note - Page 301
"Evander backs me up until my shoulders press into the bookcase behind me."
--Ooooo
Note - Page 302
"Evander looks down, eyelids cinched shut, before looking at me with a new hardness in his glare. Pulling me to him, he sighs."
--He so clingy and for what
Note - Page 302
“Then, I better sharpen my sword, because no one will touch what is mine.”
--Ew
Chapter 41
Note - Page 312
"I can’t help my small smile, glad my hand still covers my mouth."
--Girl act professional pleaaaasseeee😭
Chapter 42
Note - Page 320
"While I want his support— I do not need his permission."
--Yes sirrrr
Note - Page 321
“I’ll face the music when we get back, but it’s worth it,” Sar says with determination flickering in her eyes."
--Is Sar going to die? Sars going to die :(
Note - Page 322
“Just don’t get us all killed trying to prove it.”
--Aweee sweet viper
Note - Page 323
“I was choked midair by Drytas using his telekinesis about two paces to your right.”
-- Hehe
Chapter 43
Note - Page 329
"Despite being the youngest of us at sixteen,"
--An age finally. I forgot long ago
Note - Page 332
"We’ll meet you in the throne room— now go!”
--Uh oh
Chapter 44
Note - Page 335
"Visha, and I exchange a look."
--Visha u smart girlie.
Note - Page 337
"They would soon see a new kind of War Hour."
--Ahhhh
Chapter 45
Note - Page 341
“Will you do something for me?” He looks at our linked hands, rubbing his thumbs back and forth over my skin."
--Girl if you dont put two and two together😭😭😭
Note - Page 343
"I can think of no one better to be the future Crown ruling the Court of Truth."
--And you wonder why the truth person didnt work???
Chapter 46
Note - Page 345
"When the screaming starts, I jolt awake, rolling off the edge of the couch onto the hard ground, fighting the pillows as if they are my attacker."
--They didnt think to protect the capitol????
Note - Page 346
"It’s why I didn’t tell you—”
--Why are people telling things when minds are so easily read?
Chapter 47
Note - Page 361
“You protect yours. I’ll protect what’s left of mine.”
-- Chills
Note - Page 362
“Hardly anyone survives it,” he whispers. “It’s how I lost my wife— Evander’s mother.”
--Why even start here to attack then? Makes no sense
Chapter 48
Note - Page 363
"The pounding sends goosebumps up my arms, but I stand firm, knees locked, waiting for them to break through."
--She def going in the trial of truth
Note - Page 364
"“There’s no need for that, Lysta.”
--Knew it
Note - Page 365
"Evander reaches a hand out as if to touch my face."
--Red queen vibes
Note - Page 365
"The assassin— it had been Evander."
--Duhhhhh
Note - Page 366
"Punished for something that I might do as an adult when I was just a kid.”
--Self fufilling prophecy
Note - Page 366
"To vote on who would rule them."
-- We love a fair king
Note - Page 368
"My heart freezes. Is Evander really allowing for this to happen?"
--Girl are u dumb, he tryna protect u
Note - Page 368
"Lord Gennady on his sword."
--😭😭😭😭😭
Note - Page 369
“You die here, or you get a fighting chance in there, Lysta. So, answer me, do you consent?”
--Knew it
Note - Page 369
"He pulls it open, shoving me inside."
--Why he love her more then his daddy:(
Chapter 49
Note - Page 371
"Screw the odds."
-- Yeyeyeyeye
Note - Page 378
“But alas, not speaking the truth is not the same as lying.”
--Huh
Note - Page 379
“You seek and say the truth, but others lie to you. They’ll never lie to you again, and now your Trial is at its end.”
--Ooo power?
Chapter 50
Note - Page 381
"Drytas had made this a war of the Untrialed— Valor and Truth alike."
-- :(
Note - Page 383
"But I can’t leave the saving to someone else anymore. No one is coming."
--Love the growth
Note - Page 386
"Thoman."
--Please dont die i can only take so much
Chapter 51
Note - Page 388
“Lysta, Cenna is one of Drytas’s generals. She’s part of his counsel.”
--Uh oh
Note - Page 391
"And then there is only darkness."
--Boooooo
SPOILERS (Just notes I made while reading on Kindle)
These are my notes from the ARC read. I tried my best to seperate by Chapter and the notes with --. These are just my thoughts as I read alond so :)
Chapter 6
Note - Page 42
"Vomit down"
--I would make myself vomit just so they get dirty hehe
Chapter 7
Note - Page 47
" I brush over the name with my fingers before bringing them to my mouth."
--How she find it so quickly??
Chapter 9
Note - Page 67
“Didn’t ask,” -- Giggled
Chapter 10
Note - Page 70
"His interest in my power taints any excitement I might have had."
--What is a normal power in this world??? Also Divergent vibes from the test lol
Chapter 14
Note - Page 102
"Cracking"
--Giving Red Queen vibes
Chapter 15
Note - Page 112
"Court"
--Weird court names. Acotar ish
Chapter 21
Note - Page 156
--How old is Lysta?
Chapter 22
Note - Page 169
“You’ve been here a day. I didn’t think the first place you’d go traipsing around would be a battle arena!”
--Hehe
Chapter 23
Note - Page 176
“Okay, I’m insulted.”
--Hehe again
Chapter 24
Note - Page 182
"Evander"
--Bit suspicious of Evander
Note - Page 182
"The castle was stifling, and I just needed a break."
--Where is Torryn?!!!
Note - Page 185
"it has the highest death rate of the Trials,"
-- Really want lysta to trial again
Chapter 27
Note - Page 206
"She must be an empath of sorts— able to feel other’s emotions to some degree."
--Hide powers but others do not try so hard to do so?
Chapter 29
Note - Page 228
"“I can’t imagine a world where you would need to feel less than compared to someone else, because I am entirely and unequivocally entranced by you, Lysta.”
--Swoon
Chapter 30
Note - Page 231
"But I can’t swim, and I have no desire to drown."
-- Idk why but i like this sentence
Note - Page 233
“Tell me who did this, and I will take care of it. Anyone who thought they could lay a hand on you should fear for their life.”
--Hehe
Note - Page 235
“You lied, Lysta. It did hurt.”
--He took her pain ?? So cute
Chapter 31
Note - Page 238
"I can’t help but let out a deep breath at the sight of Torryn behind me, Evander a few steps behind him."
--Torryn drugged then Lysta?, something off...plot twist coming? Dont trust Evander tho he cute
Note - Page 241
"...face pinched the moment Lord Bralas accused me of having been seduced by Lord Torryn." ------Love a girls girl
Chapter 33
Note - Page 253
"He hadn’t cared what I’d risked in this— who I’d risked."
--Oof
Chapter 34
Note - Page 261
"The relief spreading through my body is an automatic response. Evander. He’s come after me. I sag against him. My back pressed to his chest."
--This dumb bitch
Note - Page 264
"Heir to a court, with an entire future ahead of him, and I am nothing.”
--Damn
Chapter 35
Note - Page 267
"Torryn, glaring daggers."
--Still dont trust evander but love triangle???
Note - Page 267
"He lets out a cruel laugh before looking at me. “She knows who tried to save things during the hearing.”
--Oooo cat fight
Note - Page 269
“Well, I’m sure you’d prefer it to what I want to call you.”
--Hehe
Note - Page 270
"I can’t lose much more Torryn— I can’t be the one to pay the price for whatever you’re angling for.”
-- :(
Chapter 36
Note - Page 272
"“Actually, I’m trying to schedule us a meeting with Lord Gennady, but he seems to have limited availability. But we will soon. I promise.”
-- Liar liar
Chapter 37
Note - Page 284
"Lord Gennady is giving me a choice, which no one has afforded me thus far."
--Sweet man
Note - Page 286
"“I challenge Lysta, of the Court of Valor.”
--What is even happening????
Chapter 38
Note - Page 287
"The young lord with more Trials under his belt than any other,"
--Dang
Note - Page 287
"against the court, who has been isolated from the capital along with any of Valor’s powers."
--Extended dang
Note - Page 288
"He grabs my chin in his grip,"
-- Squeel
Note - Page 289
"He is the enemy, Lysta."
-- You tell em Torryn
Note - Page 290
"But I’m not the one who needs to be soothed."
-- Dramaaaaaaa
Note - Page 290
"Why is he so against me fighting Torryn?"
--Girl he was hunting you😭
Note - Page 291
"All I want is for it to not be embarrassingly quick."
-- Relatable
Note - Page 295
“Now let’s finish this farce you call war, because there’s a real one waiting for me to make my move.”
--You tell em girl
Chapter 39
Note - Page 300
"Got some fight left after all?"
-- What in the Rhysand
Note - Page 301
"Evander backs me up until my shoulders press into the bookcase behind me."
--Ooooo
Note - Page 302
"Evander looks down, eyelids cinched shut, before looking at me with a new hardness in his glare. Pulling me to him, he sighs."
--He so clingy and for what
Note - Page 302
“Then, I better sharpen my sword, because no one will touch what is mine.”
--Ew
Chapter 41
Note - Page 312
"I can’t help my small smile, glad my hand still covers my mouth."
--Girl act professional pleaaaasseeee😭
Chapter 42
Note - Page 320
"While I want his support— I do not need his permission."
--Yes sirrrr
Note - Page 321
“I’ll face the music when we get back, but it’s worth it,” Sar says with determination flickering in her eyes."
--Is Sar going to die? Sars going to die :(
Note - Page 322
“Just don’t get us all killed trying to prove it.”
--Aweee sweet viper
Note - Page 323
“I was choked midair by Drytas using his telekinesis about two paces to your right.”
-- Hehe
Chapter 43
Note - Page 329
"Despite being the youngest of us at sixteen,"
--An age finally. I forgot long ago
Note - Page 332
"We’ll meet you in the throne room— now go!”
--Uh oh
Chapter 44
Note - Page 335
"Visha, and I exchange a look."
--Visha u smart girlie.
Note - Page 337
"They would soon see a new kind of War Hour."
--Ahhhh
Chapter 45
Note - Page 341
“Will you do something for me?” He looks at our linked hands, rubbing his thumbs back and forth over my skin."
--Girl if you dont put two and two together😭😭😭
Note - Page 343
"I can think of no one better to be the future Crown ruling the Court of Truth."
--And you wonder why the truth person didnt work???
Chapter 46
Note - Page 345
"When the screaming starts, I jolt awake, rolling off the edge of the couch onto the hard ground, fighting the pillows as if they are my attacker."
--They didnt think to protect the capitol????
Note - Page 346
"It’s why I didn’t tell you—”
--Why are people telling things when minds are so easily read?
Chapter 47
Note - Page 361
“You protect yours. I’ll protect what’s left of mine.”
-- Chills
Note - Page 362
“Hardly anyone survives it,” he whispers. “It’s how I lost my wife— Evander’s mother.”
--Why even start here to attack then? Makes no sense
Chapter 48
Note - Page 363
"The pounding sends goosebumps up my arms, but I stand firm, knees locked, waiting for them to break through."
--She def going in the trial of truth
Note - Page 364
"“There’s no need for that, Lysta.”
--Knew it
Note - Page 365
"Evander reaches a hand out as if to touch my face."
--Red queen vibes
Note - Page 365
"The assassin— it had been Evander."
--Duhhhhh
Note - Page 366
"Punished for something that I might do as an adult when I was just a kid.”
--Self fufilling prophecy
Note - Page 366
"To vote on who would rule them."
-- We love a fair king
Note - Page 368
"My heart freezes. Is Evander really allowing for this to happen?"
--Girl are u dumb, he tryna protect u
Note - Page 368
"Lord Gennady on his sword."
--😭😭😭😭😭
Note - Page 369
“You die here, or you get a fighting chance in there, Lysta. So, answer me, do you consent?”
--Knew it
Note - Page 369
"He pulls it open, shoving me inside."
--Why he love her more then his daddy:(
Chapter 49
Note - Page 371
"Screw the odds."
-- Yeyeyeyeye
Note - Page 378
“But alas, not speaking the truth is not the same as lying.”
--Huh
Note - Page 379
“You seek and say the truth, but others lie to you. They’ll never lie to you again, and now your Trial is at its end.”
--Ooo power?
Chapter 50
Note - Page 381
"Drytas had made this a war of the Untrialed— Valor and Truth alike."
-- :(
Note - Page 383
"But I can’t leave the saving to someone else anymore. No one is coming."
--Love the growth
Note - Page 386
"Thoman."
--Please dont die i can only take so much
Chapter 51
Note - Page 388
“Lysta, Cenna is one of Drytas’s generals. She’s part of his counsel.”
--Uh oh
Note - Page 391
"And then there is only darkness."
--Boooooo
November 6, 2023
ARC Review 3/5 - no spoilers
I was so excited when I found there would be a YA fantasy with a twist being released and jumped at the chance for an ARC.
The plot was unlike anything I've yet to read which made it intriguing, however I felt the scenes were rushed and lacking description. I expected the trials to be more lengthy especially considering this is how the characters obtain their powers. Trialling was mentioned a lot to begin with which built anticipation but when the FMC trialled it was short lived and dreary.
The book really picks up towards the end and leaves you with quite a few unanswered questions (plus a mega cliffhanger) leading into book 2 which obviously makes you want more. I'm looking forward to seeing how the writing and characters progress in the next book.
I was so excited when I found there would be a YA fantasy with a twist being released and jumped at the chance for an ARC.
The plot was unlike anything I've yet to read which made it intriguing, however I felt the scenes were rushed and lacking description. I expected the trials to be more lengthy especially considering this is how the characters obtain their powers. Trialling was mentioned a lot to begin with which built anticipation but when the FMC trialled it was short lived and dreary.
The book really picks up towards the end and leaves you with quite a few unanswered questions (plus a mega cliffhanger) leading into book 2 which obviously makes you want more. I'm looking forward to seeing how the writing and characters progress in the next book.
November 14, 2023
When powers are earned and not born, who shall wield them? ✨
//I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book.//
If someone were to ask me what a book written by someone who loves YA fantasy looks like, i’d say War Hour by Lauren Loscig.
The concept of this book is really creative and something i have not read before. You can definitely see points of inspiration from other popular series as you are reading.
Sadly i was not able to get through this novel based on the flow of the sentences and conversations. Every time i would start reading and it would get thrilling, i was cut off by an unnecessary comma, or descriptive word which made me want to start the sentence over again. This completely took out the immersion aspect for me, and i was not able to get invested into the story.
I made it up until chapter 10 of the book (16%) when i decided this style of writing wasn’t made for me. After giving it many tries i decided to be honest with myself and put it down.
//I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book.//
If someone were to ask me what a book written by someone who loves YA fantasy looks like, i’d say War Hour by Lauren Loscig.
The concept of this book is really creative and something i have not read before. You can definitely see points of inspiration from other popular series as you are reading.
Sadly i was not able to get through this novel based on the flow of the sentences and conversations. Every time i would start reading and it would get thrilling, i was cut off by an unnecessary comma, or descriptive word which made me want to start the sentence over again. This completely took out the immersion aspect for me, and i was not able to get invested into the story.
I made it up until chapter 10 of the book (16%) when i decided this style of writing wasn’t made for me. After giving it many tries i decided to be honest with myself and put it down.
May 11, 2025
Okay… War Hour had me in a chokehold of mixed emotions.
I wanted to love it truly. The premise? Incredible. The vibes? Tense and promising. But somewhere between the battle strategies and political pacing, I found myself… a little bored. I kept waiting for that grip-me-by-the-throat moment, and for a while, it just didn’t come.
And then the plot twist hit like a freight train. I literally sat there like, WHATTT?! Didn’t see that coming AT ALL.
Also, let’s talk about Lysta. My sweet, brave, selfless girl. Probably one of my favorite FMCs ever. She puts everyone before herself even people who wouldn’t do the same for her. She deserves peace and a hot meal and a nap.
But despite the twist and my love for Lysta, I don’t think I’ll be picking up Book 2. The pacing just didn’t click with me, and I don’t want to force it. 🖤
I wanted to love it truly. The premise? Incredible. The vibes? Tense and promising. But somewhere between the battle strategies and political pacing, I found myself… a little bored. I kept waiting for that grip-me-by-the-throat moment, and for a while, it just didn’t come.
And then the plot twist hit like a freight train. I literally sat there like, WHATTT?! Didn’t see that coming AT ALL.
Also, let’s talk about Lysta. My sweet, brave, selfless girl. Probably one of my favorite FMCs ever. She puts everyone before herself even people who wouldn’t do the same for her. She deserves peace and a hot meal and a nap.
But despite the twist and my love for Lysta, I don’t think I’ll be picking up Book 2. The pacing just didn’t click with me, and I don’t want to force it. 🖤
Read
October 8, 2025DNF @ pg 138 . (Chapter 19) Not sure I get the hype around this one. Unfortunately, the writing feels a bit choppy and all over the place. Characters are very bland and the pacing is inconsistent. My main issue with this book is that the trials were really weak and not thought out, along with literally nothing is making sense. I am having a hard time finding something to grab onto in the plot. I tried to push through to get some answers, but I think it’s time to hit the breaks. This is a new author- so there is definitely room for improvement. I would be willing to try her again someday, if she writes something else in the future.
November 8, 2023
ARC Review- 2.5 / 5 but rounding up to 3
If you enjoyed the Red Queen Series then you'll probably love this story too because there's so many similarities. Both female main characters acquire new powers and end up in a royalty setting where they are a fish out of water. Both female main characters get help from a charming heir to the throne, while also having to keep their eye out since one of the other ladies is jealous and already pursuing the charming heir. Even down to the female main characters childhood male bestfriend that they have to leave behind. And then immediately forget about until the very end . It's all so very similar, but if you liked that book then you'll like this one too.
Since Lysta is kept in the dark about the state of the other courts and their politics, we as the reader we are kept in the dark. When she first arrives at the capital and is introduced to a whole new cast of characters it was really confusing trying to figure out who was from what court and who was who's heir and who had what powers. We went from knowing like 5 people to then meeting 15 others and absolutely nobody was memorable. I was so incredibly lost.
Each character also was pretty flat and so one dimensional. I felt zero attachment to any of them. I would expand on this but I have nothing to say about any of the characters. They all just felt like watered down characters from other books. Nobody felt unique.
Also I love the idea that characters aren't born with powers and rather have to face trails in order to gain them. But then, why is every single character in power someone who is 'Trialed'? We actually only meet 2.5 characters I'm counting Lysta as a .5 since she was untrailed when we met her who are untrialed and then once Lysta goes to the capital we never see another untrailed person until the very end. Also if you have to Trial in order to gain a power, then why would the Crowns then pass on their rule to an heir, and not someone with a power suited to ruling? Why still have a hierarchy/ monarchy system when everyone is supposed to be on a level playing field of having to Trial in order to gain a power. And the unnecessary thrown in misogynistic attitude from certain Lords- what was with that? Everyone who Trails in a Court faces the same trail, so how you gonna feel all superior when everyone faces the same trail. Just makes no sense to me.
Anyway- 2.5 stars because it was ok and I didn't really love it, but rounding up to three since it moved at a semi quick pace and I didn't feel like I was dragging myself through it.
If you enjoyed the Red Queen Series then you'll probably love this story too because there's so many similarities. Both female main characters acquire new powers and end up in a royalty setting where they are a fish out of water. Both female main characters get help from a charming heir to the throne, while also having to keep their eye out since one of the other ladies is jealous and already pursuing the charming heir. Even down to the female main characters childhood male bestfriend that they have to leave behind.
Since Lysta is kept in the dark about the state of the other courts and their politics, we as the reader we are kept in the dark. When she first arrives at the capital and is introduced to a whole new cast of characters it was really confusing trying to figure out who was from what court and who was who's heir and who had what powers.
Each character also was pretty flat and so one dimensional. I felt zero attachment to any of them. I would expand on this but I have nothing to say about any of the characters. They all just felt like watered down characters from other books. Nobody felt unique.
Also I love the idea that characters aren't born with powers and rather have to face trails in order to gain them. But then, why is every single character in power someone who is 'Trialed'? We actually only meet 2.5 characters I'm counting Lysta as a .5 since she was untrailed when we met her who are untrialed and then once Lysta goes to the capital we never see another untrailed person until the very end. Also if you have to Trial in order to gain a power, then why would the Crowns then pass on their rule to an heir, and not someone with a power suited to ruling? Why still have a hierarchy/ monarchy system when everyone is supposed to be on a level playing field of having to Trial in order to gain a power. And the unnecessary thrown in misogynistic attitude from certain Lords- what was with that? Everyone who Trails in a Court faces the same trail, so how you gonna feel all superior when everyone faces the same trail. Just makes no sense to me.
Anyway- 2.5 stars because it was ok and I didn't really love it, but rounding up to three since it moved at a semi quick pace and I didn't feel like I was dragging myself through it.
November 16, 2023
Beta readers did the author dirty with not pointing out plot holes and inconsistencies. Such a shame. Had great potential.
No Context Quote: “You’re callous and rude and not an entirely pleasant person the be around”
Favourite Nickname: Fighter
No Context Quote: “You’re callous and rude and not an entirely pleasant person the be around”
Favourite Nickname: Fighter
November 18, 2023
I am so upset to give this review...
I received an ARC, and I did not finish this book. Take my review with a grain of salt, because I'm sure that Lauren received and made edits to her book based on other ARC readers' feedback. So my copy is probably different than her official, finalized, published copy (coming November 26th, 2023).
While yes, I was encouraged to give feedback, I could not write the feedback, as that would take up a lot of my time basically rewriting the book and asking questions about the world-building.
Each scene, there was some sort of hole or absence of a description that had me confused and rereading to be sure I didn't miss something.
For example (not really a spoiler, but read with caution I suppose), a character had shackles on their wrists behind their back, and a door was opened to them. The shackles were released by another character. We do not get any details about what happens besides the character looking in the room, running to the window to try to open it, then smashing a wooden chair against the window (which breaks the chair and not the window). Did the other character shove them in? Close the door? Walk in with the first character? Suddenly I realized there was no detail as to what happened between the removal of shackles and "prisoner" being in a room, presumably locked, but too many details were left out to get the full picture. Yes, it's written in first person, however, the character is hearing and seeing (not deaf or blind), and could have heard the door slam/close/swing shut and a lock click or the handle be chained shut or something to tell the reader where the other character went and the environment the character is now in. I was actually kind of baffled that the character was presumed to be in a locked bedroom by themselves, because the whole time, the other character was left at the doorway and the door opened, according to how it was written.
Now, if edits were made to this scene, great! I just found that almost every scene seemed to have something odd about it (word choice or missing details), and it would take me an entire book to describe necessary edits, and I wouldn't be paid to spend hours and hours to do that. An example of odd word choice: "his eyes were blown wide..." In shock, an "extra" in the background had widened his eyes in shock. What did I picture? Exploding eyeballs. Blown eyeballs. This took away from possible immersion into the scene that was supposed to be fast paced or more intense. Another example: "my eyebrows mashed together." I've never read mashed and eyebrows in the same sentence (besides, maybe, a gory scene?), and I thought of mashed potatoes. I think it would have been better to say, "I furrowed my eyebrows," or "frowning/scowling, I..."
I would say, at least for up to about 32% into the book, this book would be a good read for YA (teens). Romance didn't seem to be very present, but perhaps hopeful between a few characters? The premise is really interesting!!! I WANT to finish, for the sake of learning about the world, but I just cannot enjoy reading it.
The characters were fine, I suppose, but I am heavily confused about the ages of each character. The seemingly "big bad" guy acts like he's in his 20s, not with the wisdom and intelligence of a 50+ year old (he took a position of nobility "30 years ago," which would have made him at least teenaged when he began his reign). The FMC kind of makes sense in her actions? The main male side character is... mysterious enough that he's probably in his early 20s and pretty smart with reasonable flaws, and I hadn't gotten to a part where his character age wouldn't match his actions.
Unfortunately, I have to DNF, and I hope her published book made edits to some of the things I suggested throughout the rest of the book. I think more funds should have gone towards editing instead of art for the book. A really good, high quality book/series gets really good, high quality fan art pretty quickly.
I received an ARC, and I did not finish this book. Take my review with a grain of salt, because I'm sure that Lauren received and made edits to her book based on other ARC readers' feedback. So my copy is probably different than her official, finalized, published copy (coming November 26th, 2023).
While yes, I was encouraged to give feedback, I could not write the feedback, as that would take up a lot of my time basically rewriting the book and asking questions about the world-building.
Each scene, there was some sort of hole or absence of a description that had me confused and rereading to be sure I didn't miss something.
For example (not really a spoiler, but read with caution I suppose), a character had shackles on their wrists behind their back, and a door was opened to them. The shackles were released by another character. We do not get any details about what happens besides the character looking in the room, running to the window to try to open it, then smashing a wooden chair against the window (which breaks the chair and not the window). Did the other character shove them in? Close the door? Walk in with the first character? Suddenly I realized there was no detail as to what happened between the removal of shackles and "prisoner" being in a room, presumably locked, but too many details were left out to get the full picture. Yes, it's written in first person, however, the character is hearing and seeing (not deaf or blind), and could have heard the door slam/close/swing shut and a lock click or the handle be chained shut or something to tell the reader where the other character went and the environment the character is now in. I was actually kind of baffled that the character was presumed to be in a locked bedroom by themselves, because the whole time, the other character was left at the doorway and the door opened, according to how it was written.
Now, if edits were made to this scene, great! I just found that almost every scene seemed to have something odd about it (word choice or missing details), and it would take me an entire book to describe necessary edits, and I wouldn't be paid to spend hours and hours to do that. An example of odd word choice: "his eyes were blown wide..." In shock, an "extra" in the background had widened his eyes in shock. What did I picture? Exploding eyeballs. Blown eyeballs. This took away from possible immersion into the scene that was supposed to be fast paced or more intense. Another example: "my eyebrows mashed together." I've never read mashed and eyebrows in the same sentence (besides, maybe, a gory scene?), and I thought of mashed potatoes. I think it would have been better to say, "I furrowed my eyebrows," or "frowning/scowling, I..."
I would say, at least for up to about 32% into the book, this book would be a good read for YA (teens). Romance didn't seem to be very present, but perhaps hopeful between a few characters? The premise is really interesting!!! I WANT to finish, for the sake of learning about the world, but I just cannot enjoy reading it.
The characters were fine, I suppose, but I am heavily confused about the ages of each character. The seemingly "big bad" guy acts like he's in his 20s, not with the wisdom and intelligence of a 50+ year old (he took a position of nobility "30 years ago," which would have made him at least teenaged when he began his reign). The FMC kind of makes sense in her actions? The main male side character is... mysterious enough that he's probably in his early 20s and pretty smart with reasonable flaws, and I hadn't gotten to a part where his character age wouldn't match his actions.
Unfortunately, I have to DNF, and I hope her published book made edits to some of the things I suggested throughout the rest of the book. I think more funds should have gone towards editing instead of art for the book. A really good, high quality book/series gets really good, high quality fan art pretty quickly.
November 29, 2023
I would like to thank Lauren for providing me my first ever ARC! :)
Here is my review ⭐️2.5/5 ⭐️
• Overall, it wasn’t a bad read
• Might be catered towards a younger YA audience
• Heavily plot driven, but I quite liked the plot itself.
• Lots of characters, while not quite developed, I am interested to see how these characters contribute to the plot and undergo their development.
• Lack of lore to help guide the readers throughout the story- why is the Trials important? Why are the Courts divided in such way in the first place and to guard the trials from what? People who are power-hungry?
• Twists are predictable
• Trials were very … simple? I thought there would be more depth to it as it is a way for people to EARN their powers.
• Writing felt flat at the start, but eventually got a bit better towards the end. The action and the descriptions of the powers felt unimpressive and writing style felt a bit bland for everything that was supposedly going on.
• Lack of character development (I didn’t find myself being pulled by any of the characters) and almost all felt very one-dimensional. Lysta was not an intriguing character, fell in love (?) extremely fast and felt very dependent despite seemingly distrustful? towards other particular characters. I found Sar to be a more interesting character.
• Ends with a cliffhanger which builds excitement for the next book.
*Please keep in mind that a 2.5 rating doesn’t necessarily mean it is a bad book. This book definitely had an audience. Fans of the Hunger Games and Divergent may enjoy this, but keep in mind the points above though related to writing and characters.
Here is my review ⭐️2.5/5 ⭐️
• Overall, it wasn’t a bad read
• Might be catered towards a younger YA audience
• Heavily plot driven, but I quite liked the plot itself.
• Lots of characters, while not quite developed, I am interested to see how these characters contribute to the plot and undergo their development.
• Lack of lore to help guide the readers throughout the story- why is the Trials important? Why are the Courts divided in such way in the first place and to guard the trials from what? People who are power-hungry?
• Twists are predictable
• Trials were very … simple? I thought there would be more depth to it as it is a way for people to EARN their powers.
• Writing felt flat at the start, but eventually got a bit better towards the end. The action and the descriptions of the powers felt unimpressive and writing style felt a bit bland for everything that was supposedly going on.
• Lack of character development (I didn’t find myself being pulled by any of the characters) and almost all felt very one-dimensional. Lysta was not an intriguing character, fell in love (?) extremely fast and felt very dependent despite seemingly distrustful? towards other particular characters. I found Sar to be a more interesting character.
• Ends with a cliffhanger which builds excitement for the next book.
*Please keep in mind that a 2.5 rating doesn’t necessarily mean it is a bad book. This book definitely had an audience. Fans of the Hunger Games and Divergent may enjoy this, but keep in mind the points above though related to writing and characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2025
a HUGE thank you to the author Lauren Loscig for the arc, all opinions are my own
4 🌟
Enthralling debut novel with a uniquely captivating world combined with addicting writing!
WOW I find it so hard to believe that this a debut novel. Because the writing was so compelling. I knew from reading the first sentence (which grabbed me) that this was going to be good. The characters, writing and plot were well done. There was a subtle sprinkle of romance, but I’m dying for more Torryn scenes 😭💕🥲
The standout of the book for me was definitely the worldbuilding and the magic system. I adore the concept of trials and the more I learnt about them, the more I fell in love with the world that Lauren's created.
Proud to say I guessed the plot twist 🤭 The characters were well developed and I was just enraptured by the story as a whole!
Honestly, Lauren has so much potential and I can't wait to see what's next.
4 🌟
Enthralling debut novel with a uniquely captivating world combined with addicting writing!
WOW I find it so hard to believe that this a debut novel. Because the writing was so compelling. I knew from reading the first sentence (which grabbed me) that this was going to be good. The characters, writing and plot were well done. There was a subtle sprinkle of romance, but I’m dying for more Torryn scenes 😭💕🥲
The standout of the book for me was definitely the worldbuilding and the magic system. I adore the concept of trials and the more I learnt about them, the more I fell in love with the world that Lauren's created.
Proud to say I guessed the plot twist 🤭 The characters were well developed and I was just enraptured by the story as a whole!
Honestly, Lauren has so much potential and I can't wait to see what's next.
November 23, 2023
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC, so it pains me to say that I DNFed this book at 38%. I wanted to like it because the concept seemed intriguing enough and I tried, I really did but every time I picked it up, it felt like a chore.
With that being said, please do take this review with a grain of salt.
My first issue with this is: the trials. I went into this book expecting the trials to be something huge with high stakes— the hunger games type of thing, and was slightly disappointed by how underwhelming they were; the entire thing was short and a bit anticlimactic. Also Lysta gains a whole new power but treats it like it’s an every day thing and immediately gets the hang of it…?
It was a bit hard to connect with her altogether as a main character really, she along other characters felt flat, a bit inconsistent too; one minute she’s all threats and the next, she’s submitting to the people she hates the most.
The pacing was awkward, things just happen with little to no buildup which causes them to feel underwhelming and the worldbuilding could’ve been better too. Everything was sort of vague, we’re never given the full picture and I was left with more questions than answers.
All in all, it was the epitome of “great concept, poor execution”.
Now, for a debut, this isn’t the worst thing I’ve ever read and I do think that this book would be a nice read for YA readers, the premise is interesting and something I don’t encounter often. I wish I can finish it for the sake of getting the full picture and learning more about the world and characters but I just can’t do it.
With that being said, please do take this review with a grain of salt.
My first issue with this is: the trials. I went into this book expecting the trials to be something huge with high stakes— the hunger games type of thing, and was slightly disappointed by how underwhelming they were; the entire thing was short and a bit anticlimactic. Also Lysta gains a whole new power but treats it like it’s an every day thing and immediately gets the hang of it…?
It was a bit hard to connect with her altogether as a main character really, she along other characters felt flat, a bit inconsistent too; one minute she’s all threats and the next, she’s submitting to the people she hates the most.
The pacing was awkward, things just happen with little to no buildup which causes them to feel underwhelming and the worldbuilding could’ve been better too. Everything was sort of vague, we’re never given the full picture and I was left with more questions than answers.
All in all, it was the epitome of “great concept, poor execution”.
Now, for a debut, this isn’t the worst thing I’ve ever read and I do think that this book would be a nice read for YA readers, the premise is interesting and something I don’t encounter often. I wish I can finish it for the sake of getting the full picture and learning more about the world and characters but I just can’t do it.
May 14, 2024
you will not believe it. i finally finished this arc. and i have some words to say about it! it only took me like 3 months... (this is the longest a book has ever taken me in my life). reshmita the caterpillar.
January 10, 2025
4/5 because it’s predictable. But 4/5 because it’s goooood. Loved it, I'm getting into book 2 asap, I need to know what’s next.
October 16, 2023
War Hour has a perfect, slow and easy start that pulls you in then when the action starts your already so invested that your ready to jump and scream at the scream at the book. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat and begging for more! Unlike any other fantasy book I have read Lauren brings her characters to life by making them work to become the person they need to be and not just being the hero right off the bat. Plot and Character development is amazing and I need more!!! I cried, and yelled, laughed and gasped throughout the book and fell in and out of love with characters. You may never know what is coming around the corner for you.
“There will always be someone stronger than you. Someone bigger than you. You will rarely have strength advantage in the fights that actually matter.”
I can not wait to see where this story goes next!
“There will always be someone stronger than you. Someone bigger than you. You will rarely have strength advantage in the fights that actually matter.”
I can not wait to see where this story goes next!
November 26, 2023
This book was amazing!
I have to add that I was honered to be picked to be an ARC reader for this book
In this book, you are not born with magic, you have to earn it in a Trial for one of the courts. The story follows Lysta, who wants to save her own court.
This book grips you from beginning to end, I could not put it down.
There is magic, there is betrayels, there is a hint of romance (with (in my opinion) a small love triangle, and the best part, NO spice!!), there are politics, and there is war.
The only reason why I did not give it a 5 star rating, was because the first 5 chapters went too fast with not enough information, but after that, the missing information was brought to me in a very logical and amusing way.
I did not see the ending coming, and I NEED book two yesterday.
I have already recommended this book to some of my friends/coworkers, the book is out since yesterday! I hope a lot of people get to read this amazing book, personally, I think this might be one of my favorite books of this year! ❤❤
I have to add that I was honered to be picked to be an ARC reader for this book
In this book, you are not born with magic, you have to earn it in a Trial for one of the courts. The story follows Lysta, who wants to save her own court.
This book grips you from beginning to end, I could not put it down.
There is magic, there is betrayels, there is a hint of romance (with (in my opinion) a small love triangle, and the best part, NO spice!!), there are politics, and there is war.
The only reason why I did not give it a 5 star rating, was because the first 5 chapters went too fast with not enough information, but after that, the missing information was brought to me in a very logical and amusing way.
I did not see the ending coming, and I NEED book two yesterday.
I have already recommended this book to some of my friends/coworkers, the book is out since yesterday! I hope a lot of people get to read this amazing book, personally, I think this might be one of my favorite books of this year! ❤❤
June 1, 2024
i really wanted to give this a five star rating, but i want to be fair here. (six stars for torryn alone though).
all the elements of this book were really creative – i loved the idea of the trials. having them represent the corresponding values of the courts and gaining different powers based on different ways to beat it is just genius.
war hour (if you read it you know) is such a cool concept too! this series has a lot of potential so i really hope for the best.
the found family aspect just has my heart. i can already see their dynamics being explored more in the upcoming books :)
torryn honestly caught me. i loved his character so much. the way he wasn’t forced upon lysta 24/7 was refreshing considering what other enemies-to-lovers books ate doing and i found the(at times) passiveness in his behavior so interesting.
but just so you know: this is slow burn – but i just know that it will serve.
the plot twist and cliffhanger were nice, though i‘ve personally seen them coming.
criticism:
general:
the trial(s) were built up to be far more interesting than they ended up being.
since this makes up the main theme of the books, i wish it would have been executed better.
world-building:
there are a lot of plot-holes/inconsistencies and too many things left unexplained.
how do they gain their powers after trialing? lysta‘s life before the book started? how did nobody know about drytas' regime?
his plan also seemed so flawed that i couldn't really imagine war coming. i mean how is his army of untrialed people supposed to stand against trialed people of six courts?
a lot of details were left out and made it seem bland sadly.
i feel like we should have been giving more about falland and the state it is in. i personally felt really distant from the people's situation and i just wish we could have seen more interactions between lysta and the citizens (like what suzanne collins did with the hunger games. it all felt so much more real). all we basically got was a description of them being poor and too scared of the guards to go out. how where they brought up? why do we not get any deep insight on lysta's life beforehand? it would have helped a lot in shaping her character. it just didn't quite have a big impact on me.
this also makes me not quite buy into lysta's insistence to save falland and 'her people', considering that she only ever mentioned being close to/caring about two of them. i mean don't get me wrong, it absouletly makes sense that she's grown up distant from anyone and that you generally wouldn't want innocent people to die in war/from trialing - HOWEVER: i just wish we would have seen lysta more emotionally invested with the people there to understand better.
lysta:
not gonna lie, she got on my nerves a bit.
her mood swings: she feels scared to her bones in one second and brave in the other. she is shaking from fear and spitting at drytas in the next second? when drytas threatened her so she would train her powers, she was incredibly scared an ran off to 'ardis' to make him help her. later she says that she would rather be punished for failing than being exposed of having used her powers to help her friends? what?
her blaiming torryn for evrything that goes awry: i get it, she has trust issues and is being gaslighted, but why does she acknowledge the lies she is being told and not the ones being told against torryn?
this is specially about the truthsayer: she knows something fishy is going on since she can lie under his influece, but doesn't question drytas' ability to do the same when 'exposing' torryn??? girl.
i felt her to be a little bland :(
writing:
i can not say much about grammar and such as a non-native english speaker, but i read a lot of reviews saying that they had issues. i personally didn’t notice much out of the ordinary (keeping the ya genre in mind), but i still wanted to mention it – apparently the author didn’t really answer to the criticism? i‘m not sure but i heard that arc readers' feedback wasn’t engaged with which i am quite disappointed by.
___
i think i might be trying to make this book better in mind? but i did have a great time reading this, really like the ideas (and torryn) so i do hope for the best.
all the elements of this book were really creative – i loved the idea of the trials. having them represent the corresponding values of the courts and gaining different powers based on different ways to beat it is just genius.
war hour (if you read it you know) is such a cool concept too! this series has a lot of potential so i really hope for the best.
the found family aspect just has my heart. i can already see their dynamics being explored more in the upcoming books :)
torryn honestly caught me. i loved his character so much. the way he wasn’t forced upon lysta 24/7 was refreshing considering what other enemies-to-lovers books ate doing and i found the(at times) passiveness in his behavior so interesting.
but just so you know: this is slow burn – but i just know that it will serve.
the plot twist and cliffhanger were nice, though i‘ve personally seen them coming.
criticism:
general:
the trial(s) were built up to be far more interesting than they ended up being.
since this makes up the main theme of the books, i wish it would have been executed better.
world-building:
there are a lot of plot-holes/inconsistencies and too many things left unexplained.
how do they gain their powers after trialing? lysta‘s life before the book started? how did nobody know about drytas' regime?
his plan also seemed so flawed that i couldn't really imagine war coming. i mean how is his army of untrialed people supposed to stand against trialed people of six courts?
a lot of details were left out and made it seem bland sadly.
i feel like we should have been giving more about falland and the state it is in. i personally felt really distant from the people's situation and i just wish we could have seen more interactions between lysta and the citizens (like what suzanne collins did with the hunger games. it all felt so much more real). all we basically got was a description of them being poor and too scared of the guards to go out. how where they brought up? why do we not get any deep insight on lysta's life beforehand? it would have helped a lot in shaping her character. it just didn't quite have a big impact on me.
this also makes me not quite buy into lysta's insistence to save falland and 'her people', considering that she only ever mentioned being close to/caring about two of them. i mean don't get me wrong, it absouletly makes sense that she's grown up distant from anyone and that you generally wouldn't want innocent people to die in war/from trialing - HOWEVER: i just wish we would have seen lysta more emotionally invested with the people there to understand better.
lysta:
not gonna lie, she got on my nerves a bit.
her mood swings: she feels scared to her bones in one second and brave in the other. she is shaking from fear and spitting at drytas in the next second? when drytas threatened her so she would train her powers, she was incredibly scared an ran off to 'ardis' to make him help her. later she says that she would rather be punished for failing than being exposed of having used her powers to help her friends? what?
her blaiming torryn for evrything that goes awry: i get it, she has trust issues and is being gaslighted, but why does she acknowledge the lies she is being told and not the ones being told against torryn?
this is specially about the truthsayer: she knows something fishy is going on since she can lie under his influece, but doesn't question drytas' ability to do the same when 'exposing' torryn??? girl.
i felt her to be a little bland :(
writing:
i can not say much about grammar and such as a non-native english speaker, but i read a lot of reviews saying that they had issues. i personally didn’t notice much out of the ordinary (keeping the ya genre in mind), but i still wanted to mention it – apparently the author didn’t really answer to the criticism? i‘m not sure but i heard that arc readers' feedback wasn’t engaged with which i am quite disappointed by.
___
i think i might be trying to make this book better in mind? but i did have a great time reading this, really like the ideas (and torryn) so i do hope for the best.
November 26, 2023
SPOILER FREE REVIEW
(I am an ARC reader but sadly I had school so I couldn’t finish it that fast).
LAUREN LOSCIG IS AN ABSOLUTE GENIUS!!
She made a book that made me hate sleep.
The book was so amazing I expected that the book would remind me of The Hunger Games,Divergent or Fourth Wing and it did but not how I expected.
If you haven’t read the book yet and you need some more convincing to buy the book here are the things that made me finish devour 300 pages of the book in 3 hours.
•It’s incredibly fast paced!
•Normally I absolutely HATE love triangles but this book made me love it.
•ENEMIES TO LOVERS
•No spice (finally a ya book that has no spice)
•The writing is sublime it made me forget I was reading
•Usually I only see words on a page but this book had a world that made me leave the one i’m in
•The ending made me bawl. People who have read the book would probably call me dramatic but I connected to the character in a way that has never happened to me.
•It’s impossible to not think about this book after you’ve read it.
•Last but not least my favorite quotes from the book
“Common sense is only a minor inconvenience to be ignored”
“War is coming and it will not confine itself to an hour”
“Fight the battles you can win and end the battles you can’t”
My fav “I will not give them my tears as their victory “
“You seek and say the truth, but others lie to you. They’ll never lie to you again,”
“Kill the fear to free the innocent”
There are so much more but i’m afraid I forgot ti highlight them
I urge you buy this book now so I have someone to talk to about this book. One more thing to make you buy the book one of the love interests is a morally gray character with dark hair.
P.S. I love you all to bits (especially if you’re Lauren Loscig)
(I am an ARC reader but sadly I had school so I couldn’t finish it that fast).
LAUREN LOSCIG IS AN ABSOLUTE GENIUS!!
She made a book that made me hate sleep.
The book was so amazing I expected that the book would remind me of The Hunger Games,Divergent or Fourth Wing and it did but not how I expected.
If you haven’t read the book yet and you need some more convincing to buy the book here are the things that made me finish devour 300 pages of the book in 3 hours.
•It’s incredibly fast paced!
•Normally I absolutely HATE love triangles but this book made me love it.
•ENEMIES TO LOVERS
•No spice (finally a ya book that has no spice)
•The writing is sublime it made me forget I was reading
•Usually I only see words on a page but this book had a world that made me leave the one i’m in
•The ending made me bawl. People who have read the book would probably call me dramatic but I connected to the character in a way that has never happened to me.
•It’s impossible to not think about this book after you’ve read it.
•Last but not least my favorite quotes from the book
“Common sense is only a minor inconvenience to be ignored”
“War is coming and it will not confine itself to an hour”
“Fight the battles you can win and end the battles you can’t”
My fav “I will not give them my tears as their victory “
“You seek and say the truth, but others lie to you. They’ll never lie to you again,”
“Kill the fear to free the innocent”
There are so much more but i’m afraid I forgot ti highlight them
I urge you buy this book now so I have someone to talk to about this book. One more thing to make you buy the book one of the love interests is a morally gray character with dark hair.
P.S. I love you all to bits (especially if you’re Lauren Loscig)
November 7, 2023
ARC Review-
I was really excited to dive into this book. I liked the idea of the Trials and how the world itself was supposed to be. It was a quick and simple read, which is not usually my experience with fantasy books. Though, it did feel rushed and lacked detail. It was difficult for me to picture the world that it’s set in. I felt the Trials didn’t last as long as I expected. They are such an important plot point that I expected more.
I found it really difficult for me to connect to the FMC, Lysta. I really enjoyed Torryn from the start and was left wanting more from his interactions with Lysta. I thought the side characters all had something interesting to bring to the story and I hope to see more from each as the series develops. I especially hope to see more of Sar and Ardis and how their own relationship will progress.
I will say I knew from the first moment Evander entered the scene that he was not to be trusted. My suspicions were confirmed when he just happened to “find” her in the Border Forest after the assassination attempt. The fact that Lysta, who was in survival mode her entire life & didn’t trust anyone, but was so easily disarmed by his pretty smile really irked me.
I’m team Torryn all the way. And I really hope we get more of his side of everything in book 2.
I only really began to enjoy it in the last half of the book where the action picks up. The cliffhanger and Torryn’s appearance at the end do make me want to keep going to the next book.
Overall, it is a good debut YA fantasy novel and I only hope to see more from these characters and this author in the future books in the series.
I was really excited to dive into this book. I liked the idea of the Trials and how the world itself was supposed to be. It was a quick and simple read, which is not usually my experience with fantasy books. Though, it did feel rushed and lacked detail. It was difficult for me to picture the world that it’s set in. I felt the Trials didn’t last as long as I expected. They are such an important plot point that I expected more.
I found it really difficult for me to connect to the FMC, Lysta. I really enjoyed Torryn from the start and was left wanting more from his interactions with Lysta. I thought the side characters all had something interesting to bring to the story and I hope to see more from each as the series develops. I especially hope to see more of Sar and Ardis and how their own relationship will progress.
I will say I knew from the first moment Evander entered the scene that he was not to be trusted. My suspicions were confirmed when he just happened to “find” her in the Border Forest after the assassination attempt. The fact that Lysta, who was in survival mode her entire life & didn’t trust anyone, but was so easily disarmed by his pretty smile really irked me.
I’m team Torryn all the way. And I really hope we get more of his side of everything in book 2.
I only really began to enjoy it in the last half of the book where the action picks up. The cliffhanger and Torryn’s appearance at the end do make me want to keep going to the next book.
Overall, it is a good debut YA fantasy novel and I only hope to see more from these characters and this author in the future books in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2023
First, I’d like to thank the author for choosing me as an ARC reader. Thank you for this opportunity!
Overall, I think this book is 2.5 stars, maybe even 3. But I settled with 2 stars overall. The story is a great idea. It’s great for someone just getting into reading, and I love that powers/abilities are earned instead of being born into. It was a refreshing take.
The reason for a low rating: The pacing is not great. There is a ton of lead up to big events, and then the event happens and is over with very little detail or story. Lots of hype with little reward. There was a moment in the book where the main character “struggled for two weeks” with no detail about the struggle at all. As if telling the reader about the struggle was an afterthought. Many moments like this throughout. it was hard to connect with the character because I was told she went through things, instead of it being described. I felt like I was missing a lot of information or context.
Also, asking people to hold off on posting reviews less than 3 stars until a few weeks after the book comes out to “give the book a chance” is lying by omission. It’s comparable to buying reviews and I am shocked that this is asked/common practice.
The story is fun, and I look forward to the author developing the writing into the next book.
November 29, 2023
Full disclosure, I was selected to receive an ARC.
I thought the concept of this book was very interesting and was what initially compelled me to give it a read through. And while I enjoyed the plot and liked the characters, I can’t help but feel there were pieces missing.
I feel like this could’ve benefited from further development, more time with these characters in scenes that explore their characters and the world around them, not solely for the advancement of plot. Also I needed more descriptors! I have zero thoughts in my head for how anything looked, felt, smelled, sounded, etc., I want to be encapsulated by the “vibe” of the book.
Overall though, this was an enjoyable enough read as I haven’t engaged much with YA fantasy as of late, but it left more to be desired. Congratulations on your debut Lauren, excited to see what is to come in your future.
I thought the concept of this book was very interesting and was what initially compelled me to give it a read through. And while I enjoyed the plot and liked the characters, I can’t help but feel there were pieces missing.
I feel like this could’ve benefited from further development, more time with these characters in scenes that explore their characters and the world around them, not solely for the advancement of plot. Also I needed more descriptors! I have zero thoughts in my head for how anything looked, felt, smelled, sounded, etc., I want to be encapsulated by the “vibe” of the book.
Overall though, this was an enjoyable enough read as I haven’t engaged much with YA fantasy as of late, but it left more to be desired. Congratulations on your debut Lauren, excited to see what is to come in your future.
November 24, 2023
ARC REVIEW
This was such a good debut novel. I was lucky to receive the arc of this book and really enjoyed my time reading it. This book is very plot heavy but has some romance on the side, and even though I normally like a romantasy to be romance heavy I really enjoyed the plot in this and there was a perfect balance between the two. The magic system was unique and very interesting, even though I would've liked the trials to be a little more extensive. I felt like it was very short and simple while there was such an emphasis on how big of a deal the trials are. I think this book sets up a lot for the following books and I'm very curious to see where this series is gonna go (especially after that cliffhanger like WTF).
This was such a good debut novel. I was lucky to receive the arc of this book and really enjoyed my time reading it. This book is very plot heavy but has some romance on the side, and even though I normally like a romantasy to be romance heavy I really enjoyed the plot in this and there was a perfect balance between the two. The magic system was unique and very interesting, even though I would've liked the trials to be a little more extensive. I felt like it was very short and simple while there was such an emphasis on how big of a deal the trials are. I think this book sets up a lot for the following books and I'm very curious to see where this series is gonna go (especially after that cliffhanger like WTF).
January 1, 2024
Not the first time TikTok hype disappoints me
November 21, 2023
4.5 stars!
I love a good hunger games esque dystopian fantasy and this really hit that spot. This is very fantasy and plot heavy, alongside an enemies to lovers slow burn. Major plot twists, deadly trials, cliffhanger that makes me need book 2 asap.
Absolutely stunning debut
I love a good hunger games esque dystopian fantasy and this really hit that spot. This is very fantasy and plot heavy, alongside an enemies to lovers slow burn. Major plot twists, deadly trials, cliffhanger that makes me need book 2 asap.
Absolutely stunning debut
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