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The Shadow Trials: Starweaver Academy Book Two
Surviving the Shadow Trials may earn you glory. Surviving what comes after might cost you everything.
Finn Tempest never asked to command the Tidebreaker. The legendary ship, carved with ancient runes and bound to a forgotten legacy, chose him for reasons even he doesn’t understand. When Starweaver Academy revives the deadly Shadow Trials after nearly forty years, Finn and his crew are thrown into a gauntlet of storms, mazes, and magical duels. But the real test begins when secrets surface, trust is tested, and ancient powers stir beneath the waves.
At his side are more than cadets. They’re his crew. Marina, the brilliant navigator and strategist. Rowan, ever the quick-witted voice of hope. Lena, the fierce fighter with a guarded heart. Corin, the quiet engineer whose mind unravels the ship’s mysteries. Together, they rely on one another as much as they do on magic, instinct, and the Tidebreaker itself.
The Trials will push them all to their limits.
A mage-born storm where the ocean fights back.
An underwater maze that shifts with memory.
A shadow-forged arena where fear takes form.
The deeper they go into the Trials, the more the sea reveals. Strange green lights ripple on the horizon. Forgotten runes begin to stir beneath their feet. And as ancient forces rise from the depths, whispers of the Empire of the Abyss echo once more. The Tidebreaker may be their greatest weapon, or the storm that finally breaks them.
The Shadow Trials is the thrilling second installment in the Starweaver Academy series. Perfect for readers of all ages who crave epic fantasy adventure, deep character bonds, and epic stakes where found family means everything.
The Trials are calling. Ready your crew.
Finn Tempest never asked to command the Tidebreaker. The legendary ship, carved with ancient runes and bound to a forgotten legacy, chose him for reasons even he doesn’t understand. When Starweaver Academy revives the deadly Shadow Trials after nearly forty years, Finn and his crew are thrown into a gauntlet of storms, mazes, and magical duels. But the real test begins when secrets surface, trust is tested, and ancient powers stir beneath the waves.
At his side are more than cadets. They’re his crew. Marina, the brilliant navigator and strategist. Rowan, ever the quick-witted voice of hope. Lena, the fierce fighter with a guarded heart. Corin, the quiet engineer whose mind unravels the ship’s mysteries. Together, they rely on one another as much as they do on magic, instinct, and the Tidebreaker itself.
The Trials will push them all to their limits.
A mage-born storm where the ocean fights back.
An underwater maze that shifts with memory.
A shadow-forged arena where fear takes form.
The deeper they go into the Trials, the more the sea reveals. Strange green lights ripple on the horizon. Forgotten runes begin to stir beneath their feet. And as ancient forces rise from the depths, whispers of the Empire of the Abyss echo once more. The Tidebreaker may be their greatest weapon, or the storm that finally breaks them.
The Shadow Trials is the thrilling second installment in the Starweaver Academy series. Perfect for readers of all ages who crave epic fantasy adventure, deep character bonds, and epic stakes where found family means everything.
The Trials are calling. Ready your crew.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 13, 2025
4 people are currently reading
5 people want to read
About the author
Shawn Connelly
7 books7 followersShawn Connelly weaves tales of magic and adventure inspired by the wondering eyes of his children and the bold spirits of his grandchildren. A lifelong storyteller whose imagination is fueled by family movie nights and travel expeditions with his wife, Shawn crafts young adult fantasy that bridges generations. Blessed with cherished friendships that span decades, his stories celebrate the unbreakable bonds that shape our journeys through life. When he's not writing, you can find him collecting story ideas during adventures with his beloved wife Anne or jotting down notes while watching his grandchildren play. His work celebrates the enduring power of love, friendship, and the thrill of discovery that makes young adult literature so enchanting. Shawn lives with his wife in their own real-world story, surrounded by books, imagination and the endless possibilities that family brings.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
June 3, 2025
BOOK REVIEW- In The Shadow Trials, the second installment of the Starweaver Academy series, Author crafts a sweeping, emotionally resonant fantasy that pulls readers into the churning depths of magic, loyalty, and legacy. This is a story that doesn’t just raise the stakes—it dives headfirst into them, dragging its unforgettable cast along for a breathtaking ride that tests not only their strength but the bonds that hold them together.
At the heart of the novel is Finn Tempest, a reluctant leader chosen by the legendary ship Tidebreaker, a vessel steeped in ancient magic and shrouded in forgotten history. When the long-dormant Shadow Trials are revived—a series of deadly challenges steeped in peril and sorcery—Finn and his mismatched crew from Starweaver Academy are thrust into a gauntlet that will demand everything they have and more.
What elevates The Shadow Trials above a typical magical competition narrative is its deeply human core. Each member of Finn’s crew—Marina, Rowan, Lena, and Corin—brings more than unique talents to the table; they bring emotional depth, complex backstories, and scars that quietly define their courage. Their camaraderie is the soul of the novel. Through storm-wracked seas, mind-bending mazes, and shadow-wrought arenas, their evolving trust becomes as vital to their survival as any spell or sword. The story beautifully underscores that family isn't always the one you're born into—sometimes, it's the one you fight beside.
The Trials themselves are masterfully imagined: a mage-born storm that lashes with vengeance, an underwater labyrinth that reshapes itself through memory, and a fear-forged arena where nightmares gain form. The pacing is relentless but rewarding, with each challenge peeling back layers of mystery—both external and internal. Just when you think you understand the stakes, the sea shifts again, whispering of ancient empires and awakening forces that could either save or destroy everything.
Author’s prose is vivid and immersive, painting a world where danger lurks behind every wave and magic hums beneath the surface. But it's the emotional clarity—the vulnerability, the sacrifice, the stubborn hope—that anchors the fantasy. This book doesn’t just promise adventure; it delivers a full-hearted experience that lingers long after the final page.
The Shadow Trials blends high-stakes action with rich emotional payoff. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy reader or new to the genre, this is a journey worth taking.
The Trials are calling. And trust me—you’ll want to answer.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED 📚
At the heart of the novel is Finn Tempest, a reluctant leader chosen by the legendary ship Tidebreaker, a vessel steeped in ancient magic and shrouded in forgotten history. When the long-dormant Shadow Trials are revived—a series of deadly challenges steeped in peril and sorcery—Finn and his mismatched crew from Starweaver Academy are thrust into a gauntlet that will demand everything they have and more.
What elevates The Shadow Trials above a typical magical competition narrative is its deeply human core. Each member of Finn’s crew—Marina, Rowan, Lena, and Corin—brings more than unique talents to the table; they bring emotional depth, complex backstories, and scars that quietly define their courage. Their camaraderie is the soul of the novel. Through storm-wracked seas, mind-bending mazes, and shadow-wrought arenas, their evolving trust becomes as vital to their survival as any spell or sword. The story beautifully underscores that family isn't always the one you're born into—sometimes, it's the one you fight beside.
The Trials themselves are masterfully imagined: a mage-born storm that lashes with vengeance, an underwater labyrinth that reshapes itself through memory, and a fear-forged arena where nightmares gain form. The pacing is relentless but rewarding, with each challenge peeling back layers of mystery—both external and internal. Just when you think you understand the stakes, the sea shifts again, whispering of ancient empires and awakening forces that could either save or destroy everything.
Author’s prose is vivid and immersive, painting a world where danger lurks behind every wave and magic hums beneath the surface. But it's the emotional clarity—the vulnerability, the sacrifice, the stubborn hope—that anchors the fantasy. This book doesn’t just promise adventure; it delivers a full-hearted experience that lingers long after the final page.
The Shadow Trials blends high-stakes action with rich emotional payoff. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy reader or new to the genre, this is a journey worth taking.
The Trials are calling. And trust me—you’ll want to answer.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED 📚
May 28, 2025
Book Review: The Shadow Trials by Shawn Connelly ✨
(Starweaver Academy – Book Two)
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉If Tidebreaker Calls was the spark, The Shadow Trials is the roaring flame. Shawn Connelly has once again swept me into the breathtaking world of Starweaver Academy, and this sequel is nothing short of magical, thrilling, and deeply emotional.
👉At the heart of the story is Finn Tempest, a reluctant hero now tied to the legendary vessel, Tidebreaker—a ship of ancient power that seems as mysterious as Finn’s own past. When the academy revives the legendary and perilous Shadow Trials, Finn must step up, not just as a captain, but as someone coming to terms with the weight of legacy, the pain of the unknown, and the fear of failure.
👉The trials themselves are gripping:
⚡ A storm that defies all magic and logic
🌊 An eerie underwater maze filled with secrets of the deep
🔥 A magical arena where your greatest fears come to life
👉But it’s not just about survival—it’s about growth. Finn’s bond with the Tidebreaker feels alive, symbiotic, and deeply symbolic of his inner journey. As the ship awakens, so does Finn’s awareness of who he might truly be—and the terrifying truth that his destiny is tied to a dark force on the rise: The Empire of the Abyss.
👉The supporting characters add even more depth and heart. I loved the crew dynamics—Marina’s calm, Rowan’s loyalty, Lena’s fire, and Corin’s brilliance. They’re more than side characters; they’re a found family who face both external monsters and internal demons, all while standing together against the unknown.
👉Connelly’s worldbuilding is absolutely stunning. The Endless Expanse is vast, immersive, and filled with lore, danger, and wonder. From mysterious glowing lights to political tensions within the Pirate Leadership Council, every scene feels vivid and urgent. And through it all, the emotional weight never lets go.
👉This book is more than a fantasy adventure—it’s a story about identity, trust, and finding strength in the face of chaos. Finn’s evolution from uncertain student to a reluctant leader is so beautifully written. It made me feel every fear, hope, and revelation.
Happy reading 😁 😁
#review
(Starweaver Academy – Book Two)
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉If Tidebreaker Calls was the spark, The Shadow Trials is the roaring flame. Shawn Connelly has once again swept me into the breathtaking world of Starweaver Academy, and this sequel is nothing short of magical, thrilling, and deeply emotional.
👉At the heart of the story is Finn Tempest, a reluctant hero now tied to the legendary vessel, Tidebreaker—a ship of ancient power that seems as mysterious as Finn’s own past. When the academy revives the legendary and perilous Shadow Trials, Finn must step up, not just as a captain, but as someone coming to terms with the weight of legacy, the pain of the unknown, and the fear of failure.
👉The trials themselves are gripping:
⚡ A storm that defies all magic and logic
🌊 An eerie underwater maze filled with secrets of the deep
🔥 A magical arena where your greatest fears come to life
👉But it’s not just about survival—it’s about growth. Finn’s bond with the Tidebreaker feels alive, symbiotic, and deeply symbolic of his inner journey. As the ship awakens, so does Finn’s awareness of who he might truly be—and the terrifying truth that his destiny is tied to a dark force on the rise: The Empire of the Abyss.
👉The supporting characters add even more depth and heart. I loved the crew dynamics—Marina’s calm, Rowan’s loyalty, Lena’s fire, and Corin’s brilliance. They’re more than side characters; they’re a found family who face both external monsters and internal demons, all while standing together against the unknown.
👉Connelly’s worldbuilding is absolutely stunning. The Endless Expanse is vast, immersive, and filled with lore, danger, and wonder. From mysterious glowing lights to political tensions within the Pirate Leadership Council, every scene feels vivid and urgent. And through it all, the emotional weight never lets go.
👉This book is more than a fantasy adventure—it’s a story about identity, trust, and finding strength in the face of chaos. Finn’s evolution from uncertain student to a reluctant leader is so beautifully written. It made me feel every fear, hope, and revelation.
Happy reading 😁 😁
#review
June 26, 2025
Book review 📚 👉
The Shadow Trials by Shawn Connelly
🌩️ Introduction
In The Shadow Trials, author Shawn Connelly doesn’t just raise the stakes—he throws down the gauntlet. 💥 Publisher Shawn calls this a story not just about discovering courage (like in Book 1), but about testing it, and stepping boldly into the storm. 🌪️⚔️
🧭 The Premise
Finn and his crew now face deadlier trials—mystic challenges, dark forces creeping within Starweaver Academy, and the ultimate test of whether they can protect everything they’ve fought for. 🔮👁️🗨️ Their resolve is no longer just growing... it’s being forged.
🔥 Why It Stands Out
This sequel cuts deeper. The magic is still awe-inspiring, but the real trials? They’re emotional, psychological, and utterly riveting. Connelly’s storytelling evolves with sharp edges and rich layers, offering both thrills and feels. 🎭📚
🕸️ Plot
Back at Starweaver Academy, Finn finds more than spellbooks and sea charts. Power struggles rise ⚔️, loyalty frays 💔, and a haunting gauntlet of shadowy trials looms. To survive, they must hold the line—against outside threats and cracks within. 🧱⛈️
⏱️ Pace
This book moves like a storm front—tight, urgent, and full of emotional punch. 💣 It trades the breezier flow of Book 1 for high-stakes momentum, giving readers a richer, darker, and more satisfying ride. 🌀📖
👥 Characters
Finn steps up with a heart hardened by battle, while his crew shows new depth—loyalty tested, secrets revealed, bonds pushed to their breaking point. 🧑🤝🧑💔 New characters bring sparks, and returning faces shine in unexpected ways. ✨
🏁 Final Verdict
A bold, breathtaking sequel that dares its characters—and its readers—to face their shadows. The Shadow Trials delivers higher stakes, deeper bonds, and unforgettable trials of courage. 💫 A must-read if Tidebreakers Call swept you away! 🌊📘
🎯 Overall Thoughts
Shawn Connelly’s Starweaver Academy series just keeps climbing. 🪄⛵ Tidebreakers Call launched a magical voyage, but The Shadow Trials dives deeper, offering soul, storm, and the kind of growth that lingers long after the final page. If you seek adventure, emotion, and epic trials—this series is pure treasure. 🏴☠️💖
ADD TO YOUR TBR LIST NOW !!
The Shadow Trials by Shawn Connelly
🌩️ Introduction
In The Shadow Trials, author Shawn Connelly doesn’t just raise the stakes—he throws down the gauntlet. 💥 Publisher Shawn calls this a story not just about discovering courage (like in Book 1), but about testing it, and stepping boldly into the storm. 🌪️⚔️
🧭 The Premise
Finn and his crew now face deadlier trials—mystic challenges, dark forces creeping within Starweaver Academy, and the ultimate test of whether they can protect everything they’ve fought for. 🔮👁️🗨️ Their resolve is no longer just growing... it’s being forged.
🔥 Why It Stands Out
This sequel cuts deeper. The magic is still awe-inspiring, but the real trials? They’re emotional, psychological, and utterly riveting. Connelly’s storytelling evolves with sharp edges and rich layers, offering both thrills and feels. 🎭📚
🕸️ Plot
Back at Starweaver Academy, Finn finds more than spellbooks and sea charts. Power struggles rise ⚔️, loyalty frays 💔, and a haunting gauntlet of shadowy trials looms. To survive, they must hold the line—against outside threats and cracks within. 🧱⛈️
⏱️ Pace
This book moves like a storm front—tight, urgent, and full of emotional punch. 💣 It trades the breezier flow of Book 1 for high-stakes momentum, giving readers a richer, darker, and more satisfying ride. 🌀📖
👥 Characters
Finn steps up with a heart hardened by battle, while his crew shows new depth—loyalty tested, secrets revealed, bonds pushed to their breaking point. 🧑🤝🧑💔 New characters bring sparks, and returning faces shine in unexpected ways. ✨
🏁 Final Verdict
A bold, breathtaking sequel that dares its characters—and its readers—to face their shadows. The Shadow Trials delivers higher stakes, deeper bonds, and unforgettable trials of courage. 💫 A must-read if Tidebreakers Call swept you away! 🌊📘
🎯 Overall Thoughts
Shawn Connelly’s Starweaver Academy series just keeps climbing. 🪄⛵ Tidebreakers Call launched a magical voyage, but The Shadow Trials dives deeper, offering soul, storm, and the kind of growth that lingers long after the final page. If you seek adventure, emotion, and epic trials—this series is pure treasure. 🏴☠️💖
ADD TO YOUR TBR LIST NOW !!
July 14, 2025
If you enjoy stories about magic, adventure, and strong friendships, you should definitely start with Tidebreaker’s Call by Shawn Connelly, the first book in the Starweaver Academy series. That’s where you’ll meet Finn Tempest and his crew, and learn about the powerful ship, the Tidebreaker. Once you know their world, The Shadow Trials: Starweaver Academy Book Two by Shawn Connelly will pull you in even deeper. It’s a story filled with danger, mystery, and the kind of teamwork that makes you wish you were part of their crew.
In this book, Finn finds himself leading his team through a set of dangerous trials that no one has faced in forty years. The challenges are no small thing — from fighting a deadly storm to finding their way through a strange underwater maze, and even stepping into a place where their biggest fears come to life. What I liked most was how the crew stuck together. Marina, Rowan, Lena, and Corin each have their own strengths, and they trust each other no matter how tough things get in The Shadow Trials: Starweaver Academy Book Two by Shawn Connelly.
Reading this story made me think about the times in my own life when I had to face hard moments and didn’t know what would happen next. Finn doesn’t have all the answers either, but he keeps going. The connection between him and the Tidebreaker ship felt special, like it was more than just a ship — almost like a friend guiding him through the unknown. The mystery of the green lights, the old runes, and the whispers of the Empire of the Abyss made The Shadow Trials: Starweaver Academy Book Two by Shawn Connelly even more exciting to me.
I would recommend The Shadow Trials: Starweaver Academy Book Two by Shawn Connelly to readers who like fantasy stories that mix magic with heart. It’s not just about fighting battles — it’s about trusting your friends, facing your fears, and finding your strength when it matters most. Start with Tidebreaker’s Call, get to know the crew, and then dive into this adventure. It’s a story that stays with you even after the last page, and I’m already looking forward to the next part of their journey.
In this book, Finn finds himself leading his team through a set of dangerous trials that no one has faced in forty years. The challenges are no small thing — from fighting a deadly storm to finding their way through a strange underwater maze, and even stepping into a place where their biggest fears come to life. What I liked most was how the crew stuck together. Marina, Rowan, Lena, and Corin each have their own strengths, and they trust each other no matter how tough things get in The Shadow Trials: Starweaver Academy Book Two by Shawn Connelly.
Reading this story made me think about the times in my own life when I had to face hard moments and didn’t know what would happen next. Finn doesn’t have all the answers either, but he keeps going. The connection between him and the Tidebreaker ship felt special, like it was more than just a ship — almost like a friend guiding him through the unknown. The mystery of the green lights, the old runes, and the whispers of the Empire of the Abyss made The Shadow Trials: Starweaver Academy Book Two by Shawn Connelly even more exciting to me.
I would recommend The Shadow Trials: Starweaver Academy Book Two by Shawn Connelly to readers who like fantasy stories that mix magic with heart. It’s not just about fighting battles — it’s about trusting your friends, facing your fears, and finding your strength when it matters most. Start with Tidebreaker’s Call, get to know the crew, and then dive into this adventure. It’s a story that stays with you even after the last page, and I’m already looking forward to the next part of their journey.
August 2, 2025
Some truths are buried deep in the heart waiting for a storm that can make them rise.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
In The Shadow Trials, Shawn Connelly spins a heart-pounding sequel that ups the ante with each page. When Finn Tempest is selected by the legendary vessel Tidebreaker, he's thrust into an renewed cycle of magical and deadly trials—each more horrifying and emotionally demanding than the last. Storm-sculpted arenas, memory-bending mazes, and oceanic secrets that slumber beneath challenge not just his captaincy but the unbreakable ties of his crew. Marina, Rowan, Lena, and Corin aren't merely allies—they're the heartbeat of the tale. As the Trials build, so does the uncovering of a lost heritage waiting to resurface. What starts out as a test to survive turns into a battle with destiny, loyalty, and the siren's call of the sea.
Why This YA Fantasy Steals the Show:
* Cinematic Challenges with a Purpose: From mage-born storms to duels shaped by fear, every challenge goes beyond show to uncover inner truths.
* Found Family That Feels Real: The crew dynamic is raw, tender, and fiercely loyal—Marina’s mind, Lena’s fire, Rowan’s hope, and Corin’s quiet brilliance make them unforgettable.
* Magic That Breathes Myth: The Tidebreaker is more than a ship—it’s a living entity filled with runes, legacy, and oceanic lore.
* ️ Themes That Haunt: Identity, sacrifice, and trust are at the forefront. These aren't just teenage witches battling magic—they're deciding who they'd like to be.
* Emotionally Charged Action: High-tension action collides with real emotional reward—each chapter leaves its mark.
Final Thoughts:
The Shadow Trials not only grows the Starweaver universe—it enriches it. Fantasy becomes intimate in Connelly's care, and the ocean becomes a reflection. You don't merely journey with these people—you believe in them. It's not simply a sequel; it's an emotional storm, a tempest of friendship and destiny. The sea has further to tell, and I will be listening.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
In The Shadow Trials, Shawn Connelly spins a heart-pounding sequel that ups the ante with each page. When Finn Tempest is selected by the legendary vessel Tidebreaker, he's thrust into an renewed cycle of magical and deadly trials—each more horrifying and emotionally demanding than the last. Storm-sculpted arenas, memory-bending mazes, and oceanic secrets that slumber beneath challenge not just his captaincy but the unbreakable ties of his crew. Marina, Rowan, Lena, and Corin aren't merely allies—they're the heartbeat of the tale. As the Trials build, so does the uncovering of a lost heritage waiting to resurface. What starts out as a test to survive turns into a battle with destiny, loyalty, and the siren's call of the sea.
Why This YA Fantasy Steals the Show:
* Cinematic Challenges with a Purpose: From mage-born storms to duels shaped by fear, every challenge goes beyond show to uncover inner truths.
* Found Family That Feels Real: The crew dynamic is raw, tender, and fiercely loyal—Marina’s mind, Lena’s fire, Rowan’s hope, and Corin’s quiet brilliance make them unforgettable.
* Magic That Breathes Myth: The Tidebreaker is more than a ship—it’s a living entity filled with runes, legacy, and oceanic lore.
* ️ Themes That Haunt: Identity, sacrifice, and trust are at the forefront. These aren't just teenage witches battling magic—they're deciding who they'd like to be.
* Emotionally Charged Action: High-tension action collides with real emotional reward—each chapter leaves its mark.
Final Thoughts:
The Shadow Trials not only grows the Starweaver universe—it enriches it. Fantasy becomes intimate in Connelly's care, and the ocean becomes a reflection. You don't merely journey with these people—you believe in them. It's not simply a sequel; it's an emotional storm, a tempest of friendship and destiny. The sea has further to tell, and I will be listening.
August 14, 2025
The Shadow Trials: Starweaver Academy Book Two by Shawn Connelly is a book that made me feel like I was right there on the Tidebreaker again. Finn Tempest and his crew are back, and this time the challenges are tougher, the risks are bigger, and the bonds between them are stronger. What I liked most was how the story showed the importance of trust. The way Finn and his crew stood by each other reminded me of times in my life when I had to depend on my friends to get through tough situations. It felt real and close to the heart.
The Shadow Trials are full of excitement—a wild storm made by magic, an underwater maze that changes with memories, and a dark arena where your fears come alive. Each trial felt like I was watching it happen in front of me. It also made me think about how life can throw unexpected problems at us, and how much easier it is to face them when you have people who believe in you. The mix of action and teamwork kept me hooked from start to finish.
Finn’s growth in this book really stood out. In the first book, he was still finding his place. Here, he starts making big decisions and taking real responsibility for his crew. I could relate to that feeling of stepping into something new and not being sure if you’re ready, but still doing your best. The mysteries about the Tidebreaker and the strange green lights in the sea made me even more curious about what’s coming next.
If you liked the first book, you should definitely read The Shadow Trials. It has adventure, friendship, and moments that will stay with you even after you finish reading. For me, it wasn’t just a story about magic and the sea—it was about courage, trust, and finding strength together. I think readers who enjoy action, teamwork, and heart in a story will really enjoy this one.
The Shadow Trials are full of excitement—a wild storm made by magic, an underwater maze that changes with memories, and a dark arena where your fears come alive. Each trial felt like I was watching it happen in front of me. It also made me think about how life can throw unexpected problems at us, and how much easier it is to face them when you have people who believe in you. The mix of action and teamwork kept me hooked from start to finish.
Finn’s growth in this book really stood out. In the first book, he was still finding his place. Here, he starts making big decisions and taking real responsibility for his crew. I could relate to that feeling of stepping into something new and not being sure if you’re ready, but still doing your best. The mysteries about the Tidebreaker and the strange green lights in the sea made me even more curious about what’s coming next.
If you liked the first book, you should definitely read The Shadow Trials. It has adventure, friendship, and moments that will stay with you even after you finish reading. For me, it wasn’t just a story about magic and the sea—it was about courage, trust, and finding strength together. I think readers who enjoy action, teamwork, and heart in a story will really enjoy this one.
July 17, 2025
The Shadow Trials is a Teen & YA fiction novel written by the author Shawn Connelly, published in May 2023. It’s the second book in the Starweaver Academy series. This 408-page book elevates the YA fantasy genre with a gripping mix of high-stakes magic, immersive world-building, and deeply felt character relationships. Set against the backdrop of the revived Shadow Trials, the story follows reluctant leader Finn Tempest and his crew aboard the Tidebreaker—a legendary ship with secrets of its own. What makes this novel stand out is its brilliant balance between action-packed challenges and the emotional undercurrent of found family. From mage-born storms to an underwater maze that manipulates memory, the trials aren’t just physically daunting—they challenge the characters’ trust, courage, and identities. Each member of Finn’s crew—Marina, Rowan, Lena, and Corin—adds dimension to the story, making their bond both believable and heartening. The writing is sharp and cinematic, with standout sequences like the shadow-forged arena and the eerie green lights that hint at deeper threats. While there are minor pacing lulls mid-book, the tension builds toward a powerful climax that sets the stage for something even bigger. Highly recommended from my side.
Rating: 5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
A thrilling sequel that masterfully blends magical intensity with emotional depth.
Final Verdict: A near-flawless sequel that delivers both adrenaline and emotional payoff. The Shadow Trials is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy who crave meaningful friendships, epic stakes, and a world that feels as alive as its characters.
Rating: 5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
A thrilling sequel that masterfully blends magical intensity with emotional depth.
Final Verdict: A near-flawless sequel that delivers both adrenaline and emotional payoff. The Shadow Trials is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy who crave meaningful friendships, epic stakes, and a world that feels as alive as its characters.
July 18, 2025
📚 Review: The Shadow Trials by Shawn Connelly
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
🔹 Gripping from the First Page
⚓ Finn Tempest didn’t ask for the Tidebreaker—but the ship chose him. From the moment the Shadow Trials begin, you're pulled into a world of storms, magic, and ancient secrets. The pacing is tight, and the stakes are real.
🔹 The Crew is the Heart of the Story
👫 This isn’t just Finn’s journey—Marina, Rowan, Lena, and Corin each shine with unique strengths and personalities. Their bond feels genuine and earned. You care about them, and that’s rare in ensemble casts.
🔹 Worldbuilding That Feels Alive
🌊 From mage-born storms to memory-shifting mazes and fear-forged arenas—every Trial is vivid, dangerous, and creatively imagined. The ocean itself becomes a character. You can almost smell the salt air and feel the ship move.
🔹 Mystery and Magic Done Right
💡 Forgotten runes, glowing green lights on the sea, and whispers of a lost empire—there’s always a sense that something bigger is lurking just out of reach. The tension builds slowly but effectively.
🔹 Themes That Resonate
🤝 Found family. Leadership under pressure. Trust that’s tested and earned. This book goes beyond magic—it explores what it means to truly rely on others when everything’s on the line.
🔹 Perfect Sequel Energy
📖 You don’t need to have read book one to enjoy this, but fans of the first will appreciate how the world expands. It raises the stakes without losing the emotional heart.
---
✨ Final Thought:
The Shadow Trials delivers an emotional, action-packed ride with characters you’ll root for and a world you’ll want to explore further. Perfect for fans of character-driven fantasy and high-seas adventure.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
🔹 Gripping from the First Page
⚓ Finn Tempest didn’t ask for the Tidebreaker—but the ship chose him. From the moment the Shadow Trials begin, you're pulled into a world of storms, magic, and ancient secrets. The pacing is tight, and the stakes are real.
🔹 The Crew is the Heart of the Story
👫 This isn’t just Finn’s journey—Marina, Rowan, Lena, and Corin each shine with unique strengths and personalities. Their bond feels genuine and earned. You care about them, and that’s rare in ensemble casts.
🔹 Worldbuilding That Feels Alive
🌊 From mage-born storms to memory-shifting mazes and fear-forged arenas—every Trial is vivid, dangerous, and creatively imagined. The ocean itself becomes a character. You can almost smell the salt air and feel the ship move.
🔹 Mystery and Magic Done Right
💡 Forgotten runes, glowing green lights on the sea, and whispers of a lost empire—there’s always a sense that something bigger is lurking just out of reach. The tension builds slowly but effectively.
🔹 Themes That Resonate
🤝 Found family. Leadership under pressure. Trust that’s tested and earned. This book goes beyond magic—it explores what it means to truly rely on others when everything’s on the line.
🔹 Perfect Sequel Energy
📖 You don’t need to have read book one to enjoy this, but fans of the first will appreciate how the world expands. It raises the stakes without losing the emotional heart.
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✨ Final Thought:
The Shadow Trials delivers an emotional, action-packed ride with characters you’ll root for and a world you’ll want to explore further. Perfect for fans of character-driven fantasy and high-seas adventure.
July 10, 2025
Book Review: The Shadow Trials by Shawn Connelly
In The Shadow Trials, the breathtaking second installment of the Starweaver Academy series, Shawn Connelly breathes life into an emotionally charged high-stakes fantasy that heightens and deepens everything introduced in Tidebreaker’s Call. With crueler magic, tighter bonds, and a thunderous unraveling of the mystery, this is a sequel that truly stands as a testament to worldbuilding, character growth, and storytelling heart.
Thrown into the legendary and long-dormant Shadow Trials, Finn Tempest and his fiercely loyal crew must survive through arcane storms, memory-mazes, and arenas forged-from-fear. The real challenge, however, is not magic: it is leadership, legacy, and finding out who you are when everything you know is being shattered. This growing-up theme is mirrored in his relation to the Tidebreaker, the sentient ship: from reluctant student to potential savior.
The found-family vibe between Finn, Marina, Rowan, Lena, and Corin runs in the emotional highroad of the story. Tested and forged through darkness and danger, the bond of the found family feels very human and very complicated. Connelly’s wordcraft is at once over-the-top and intimate, marrying outrageous action sequences with quiet moments of revelation.
With the coming forth of the Abyssal Knowledge and green lights being ignited in the horizon, The Shadow Trials is more than a magical competition—it's a prophecy being fulfilled. Daring, haunting, and unforgettable, this is fantasy at its highest.
In The Shadow Trials, the breathtaking second installment of the Starweaver Academy series, Shawn Connelly breathes life into an emotionally charged high-stakes fantasy that heightens and deepens everything introduced in Tidebreaker’s Call. With crueler magic, tighter bonds, and a thunderous unraveling of the mystery, this is a sequel that truly stands as a testament to worldbuilding, character growth, and storytelling heart.
Thrown into the legendary and long-dormant Shadow Trials, Finn Tempest and his fiercely loyal crew must survive through arcane storms, memory-mazes, and arenas forged-from-fear. The real challenge, however, is not magic: it is leadership, legacy, and finding out who you are when everything you know is being shattered. This growing-up theme is mirrored in his relation to the Tidebreaker, the sentient ship: from reluctant student to potential savior.
The found-family vibe between Finn, Marina, Rowan, Lena, and Corin runs in the emotional highroad of the story. Tested and forged through darkness and danger, the bond of the found family feels very human and very complicated. Connelly’s wordcraft is at once over-the-top and intimate, marrying outrageous action sequences with quiet moments of revelation.
With the coming forth of the Abyssal Knowledge and green lights being ignited in the horizon, The Shadow Trials is more than a magical competition—it's a prophecy being fulfilled. Daring, haunting, and unforgettable, this is fantasy at its highest.
June 21, 2025
The Shadow Trials is a powerful continuation that blends magic, memory, and emotional truth into a deeply immersive journey.
As Finn’s connection to the Tidebreaker deepens, it mirrors his evolution—one shaped by accepting destiny and rising to the weight of responsibility.
Shawn Connelly masterfully explores how resilience is forged not just through facing danger, but by embracing vulnerability and the bonds that grow in chaos.
The novel doesn’t rely on spectacle alone, instead, it shines in its portrayal of trust, legacy, and the quiet strength of connection.
Each trial pushes the characters not just physically, but emotionally, allowing for genuine, organic growth.
This sequel transcends typical fantasy beats, offering a resonant meditation on identity and belonging. I was completely swept up in the Tidebreakers’ world—Finn, Marina, Lena, Rowan, and Corin are outcasts who stand together like family.
The Shadow Duel was breathtaking, and their midnight pact was a moment of raw, heartfelt magic.
It's a beautiful blend of friendship, courage, and enchantment that stays with you long after the final page.
As Finn’s connection to the Tidebreaker deepens, it mirrors his evolution—one shaped by accepting destiny and rising to the weight of responsibility.
Shawn Connelly masterfully explores how resilience is forged not just through facing danger, but by embracing vulnerability and the bonds that grow in chaos.
The novel doesn’t rely on spectacle alone, instead, it shines in its portrayal of trust, legacy, and the quiet strength of connection.
Each trial pushes the characters not just physically, but emotionally, allowing for genuine, organic growth.
This sequel transcends typical fantasy beats, offering a resonant meditation on identity and belonging. I was completely swept up in the Tidebreakers’ world—Finn, Marina, Lena, Rowan, and Corin are outcasts who stand together like family.
The Shadow Duel was breathtaking, and their midnight pact was a moment of raw, heartfelt magic.
It's a beautiful blend of friendship, courage, and enchantment that stays with you long after the final page.
May 22, 2025
I really liked this one. Adventure fantasy. I did not read the first book and it did well as a standalone. It ends on a cliffhanger though and now I really want to know what happens. Loved the characters. Especially Finn. Good plot.
It is a longer book I did read in a day but....it took much of it. Plan on a couple days or doing nothing...
Clean. Some mentions of darker things.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It is a longer book I did read in a day but....it took much of it. Plan on a couple days or doing nothing...
Clean. Some mentions of darker things.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 2, 2025
Great sequel
Although the first was best, this keeps you at the edge of your seat. Politics remain politics, even when what amounts to a zombie Navy is on the loose. If there was one thing I'd tweak, it's repetition. Silence stretched, moment passed, hair flowed--powerful, if overused. Will be truly great with that adjustment, IMHO, but even as is I truly enjoyed it and can't Wait for the third!
Although the first was best, this keeps you at the edge of your seat. Politics remain politics, even when what amounts to a zombie Navy is on the loose. If there was one thing I'd tweak, it's repetition. Silence stretched, moment passed, hair flowed--powerful, if overused. Will be truly great with that adjustment, IMHO, but even as is I truly enjoyed it and can't Wait for the third!
August 5, 2025
The Shadow Trials is a powerful sequel that raises the stakes without losing the emotional core that made book one so memorable. It's thrilling, yes, but also full of heart. Every chapter is a tide sometimes calm, sometimes crashing but always carrying you somewhere unforgettable.
And hey, if you thought you were just here for a ship and some spells, think again. This is about courage, legacy, and holding tight to the people who keep your compass steady.
And hey, if you thought you were just here for a ship and some spells, think again. This is about courage, legacy, and holding tight to the people who keep your compass steady.
June 1, 2025
I love both this story and the characters and hopefully someday I wish to watch this story unfold on a tv series or a movie.
I am a little discontent due to the repetitions though, because it makes me confused if I actually read that part before or not.
This series is still recommended to everyone, as it's a brilliant piece of imagination.
I am a little discontent due to the repetitions though, because it makes me confused if I actually read that part before or not.
This series is still recommended to everyone, as it's a brilliant piece of imagination.
May 19, 2025
A Spellbinding Journey Through Magic and Intrigue Awaits You!
The Shadow Trials: Starweaver Academy Book Two captivated me from the start! The intricate world-building and dynamic characters kept me on the edge of my seat. The plot twists were thrilling, and I adored the character development. This book exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend it!
The Shadow Trials: Starweaver Academy Book Two captivated me from the start! The intricate world-building and dynamic characters kept me on the edge of my seat. The plot twists were thrilling, and I adored the character development. This book exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend it!
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