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The Imrati Trials
A Dangerous Tournament, Forbidden Magic, and a Choice that Could Destroy Her World.
Nyah, the illegitimate daughter of a sorcerer king, has always lived in the shadows. With only a touch of magic and no real power to call her own, she’s accustomed to being overlooked—especially when compared to her full-blooded sister, Leuruna, the princess who suffers at the hands of their cruel father.
But when Leuruna transfers her magic to Nyah to protect it from their father's tyranny, Nyah is forced to flee the kingdom. Her escape takes an unexpected turn when she's saved—and kidnapped—by Rivven, a mysterious and charismatic warrior with dangerous secrets of his own. His mission? To assassinate Nyah’s father. But Rivven’s plans come with a risk Nyah isn’t willing to he wants to enter the Imrati, a tournament where the victor can claim the legendary powerstone and the hand of the princess.
It’s the perfect opportunity to get close to the king and strike. But the stakes are higher than Nyah could have ever imagined. As she’s pulled deeper into the trials—and into a scorching attraction for Rivven—she finds herself torn between her duty to her sister and the growing desire to stand by the man who’s risking everything for a better world.
In a contest where betrayal runs as deep as the magic that fuels it, Nyah must will she embrace the power inside her and take the chance to change everything? Or will she risk losing herself, and the people she loves, to a king whose cruelty knows no bounds?
Enter the Imrati—where only the strongest will survive, and the prize may cost more than anyone is willing to pay.
Nyah, the illegitimate daughter of a sorcerer king, has always lived in the shadows. With only a touch of magic and no real power to call her own, she’s accustomed to being overlooked—especially when compared to her full-blooded sister, Leuruna, the princess who suffers at the hands of their cruel father.
But when Leuruna transfers her magic to Nyah to protect it from their father's tyranny, Nyah is forced to flee the kingdom. Her escape takes an unexpected turn when she's saved—and kidnapped—by Rivven, a mysterious and charismatic warrior with dangerous secrets of his own. His mission? To assassinate Nyah’s father. But Rivven’s plans come with a risk Nyah isn’t willing to he wants to enter the Imrati, a tournament where the victor can claim the legendary powerstone and the hand of the princess.
It’s the perfect opportunity to get close to the king and strike. But the stakes are higher than Nyah could have ever imagined. As she’s pulled deeper into the trials—and into a scorching attraction for Rivven—she finds herself torn between her duty to her sister and the growing desire to stand by the man who’s risking everything for a better world.
In a contest where betrayal runs as deep as the magic that fuels it, Nyah must will she embrace the power inside her and take the chance to change everything? Or will she risk losing herself, and the people she loves, to a king whose cruelty knows no bounds?
Enter the Imrati—where only the strongest will survive, and the prize may cost more than anyone is willing to pay.
377 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2025
12 people are currently reading
2136 people want to read
About the author
Lizzy Gayle
16 books101 followersLizzy Gayle loves paranormal so much, she lives it. She is both an author and a psychic. Between mothering her three kids, attempting to understand her rocket scientist husband, and consistently attempting to declutter her home (that she is convinced is a secret portal to a clutter-creating dimension), she does her best to use her creative gifts and share them with you. Lizzy is a people person so if you contact her, it will make her very happy and she will likely answer while possibly including pictures of her bunnies and/or bird. She has also been known to write Young Adult under the name Lisa Gail Green. Anything else you’d like to know about her you may find out by asking because it never hurts to ask.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
August 24, 2025
Do you crave adventure? What about non-stop action, intrigue, and the opportunity to meet a whole host of magical creatures? And what if I throw in a little bit of a trial that will give you the opportunity to kill an evil king who uses his magic to put his whole kingdom into never-ending darkness? Oh, and let’s not forget the main motivation here, the imprisoned princess who’s being drained of her magical ability to feed the evil king and his dark kingdom? If this is you, come get your book!
Wow! This wasn’t just a ride, it was a whole damn carnival! It had a little bit of everything for everyone. I tore this book up in a single day. I didn’t want to put it down and leave Nyah and Rivven for even a single second. There was so much to love in this book, you really can’t go wrong. (And I’m saying this after 4, yes 4 straight DNFs in a row.) This was just the book I needed to pick me up!
I absolutely adored Nyah as the FMC. She’s scrappy, she’s relentless and brave, and sometimes, she’s just plain adorable. Her and Rivven’s chemistry is electric on the page, even if it starts out reluctantly at first. Trust is hard for Nyah, who is much more at home lurking in the shadows. She’s often underestimated, both because she’s a woman and because she might be a little on the shorter side. But what she lacks in height, she makes up for in ruthless efficiency. Seeing her hone her abilities (gifted by her sister in a bid to get her to escape) and learn how to trust people just adds to the magic of this story. 5/5 stars, could not put this down. I highly recommend picking up a copy when it hits shelves September 16. Just don’t come after me when it ends in a cliffhanger that will have you crying for the next book!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #theimratitrials #thenerdfam
Wow! This wasn’t just a ride, it was a whole damn carnival! It had a little bit of everything for everyone. I tore this book up in a single day. I didn’t want to put it down and leave Nyah and Rivven for even a single second. There was so much to love in this book, you really can’t go wrong. (And I’m saying this after 4, yes 4 straight DNFs in a row.) This was just the book I needed to pick me up!
I absolutely adored Nyah as the FMC. She’s scrappy, she’s relentless and brave, and sometimes, she’s just plain adorable. Her and Rivven’s chemistry is electric on the page, even if it starts out reluctantly at first. Trust is hard for Nyah, who is much more at home lurking in the shadows. She’s often underestimated, both because she’s a woman and because she might be a little on the shorter side. But what she lacks in height, she makes up for in ruthless efficiency. Seeing her hone her abilities (gifted by her sister in a bid to get her to escape) and learn how to trust people just adds to the magic of this story. 5/5 stars, could not put this down. I highly recommend picking up a copy when it hits shelves September 16. Just don’t come after me when it ends in a cliffhanger that will have you crying for the next book!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #theimratitrials #thenerdfam
September 10, 2025
i'm stuck between 3.5 and 3.75 ⭐️ !
the beginning half of this had me confused because I was expecting trials, but I didn't see them coming anytime soon. Once the trials did come up, i was skeptical that they could be adequately fleshed out in the amount of time left in the book.
HOWEVER, this book was setting up and ending that GENUINELY floored me - it's been a long time since i have actually been completely shocked by a twist at the end, and this one did it for me! quite a good feeling :)
I think that this is a read that you have to wait for a bit to enjoy. book 2 will be nuts.
**thank you so much to Lizzy Gayle and The Nerd Fam for the ARC copy**
the beginning half of this had me confused because I was expecting trials, but I didn't see them coming anytime soon. Once the trials did come up, i was skeptical that they could be adequately fleshed out in the amount of time left in the book.
HOWEVER, this book was setting up and ending that GENUINELY floored me - it's been a long time since i have actually been completely shocked by a twist at the end, and this one did it for me! quite a good feeling :)
I think that this is a read that you have to wait for a bit to enjoy. book 2 will be nuts.
**thank you so much to Lizzy Gayle and The Nerd Fam for the ARC copy**
September 11, 2025
That ending! Oh my god I cannot believe all those twists at the end! I loved this book and can’t wait for the next one! If you’re looking for your next romantasy featuring fae, magical elemental powers, kingdoms on the verge of collapse, trails and training sequences and of course romance, this book is for you.
I loved following Nye’s story as she escapes her father, the evil power hungry king, with her sisters powers and ends up in the company of another royal half elf prince. They must work together and form a plan to take down the king as a part of the trials he is hosting. Everything in this world though is not as it seems and there are plots within plots happening and lots of fun well flushed out side characters to enjoy and even a pet dragon or two!
I really enjoyed the world building and the magic system of this book, especially the unveiling of how magic can be used as Nye discovered more ways she can use her own power! Her relationship with Rivven that develops from enemies to reluctant allies to lovers was well done and I could feel the slow burn even from their first meeting. That twist at the end really got me and I cannot wait for the next book to find out what happens! Overall my rating 4.8/5!
Thanks to the author and the nerd fam for the gifted copy of this book, all opinions given are my own!
I loved following Nye’s story as she escapes her father, the evil power hungry king, with her sisters powers and ends up in the company of another royal half elf prince. They must work together and form a plan to take down the king as a part of the trials he is hosting. Everything in this world though is not as it seems and there are plots within plots happening and lots of fun well flushed out side characters to enjoy and even a pet dragon or two!
I really enjoyed the world building and the magic system of this book, especially the unveiling of how magic can be used as Nye discovered more ways she can use her own power! Her relationship with Rivven that develops from enemies to reluctant allies to lovers was well done and I could feel the slow burn even from their first meeting. That twist at the end really got me and I cannot wait for the next book to find out what happens! Overall my rating 4.8/5!
Thanks to the author and the nerd fam for the gifted copy of this book, all opinions given are my own!
September 16, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and City Owl Press for an advanced reader copy of this book.
It has been a minute since a book has surprised me the way this one did! The ending took a turn I never would have guessed and I am glad for it. I need to know what happens next!
The Imrati trials follows Nyah the illegitimate daughter of a cruel sorcerer king. When a prophecy is given to the king and he announces The Imrati trials will be taking place (with the prize being a betrothal to Nyah’s sister, Leuruna), Leuruna transfers her powers into Nyah so she can flee the kingdom with them. However she ends up crossing paths with Rivven who saves her and kidnaps her in the same breath. They soon realize both of them want the same thing, the king dead, so they form an alliance to enter the Imrati trials to strike. So the games begin!
I enjoyed the banter between Rivven and Nyah, the action and adventure throughout this book, and the side characters! I do wish we got more of the trials in this book, but I thought Lizzy did a great job of pacing. I was always entertained while reading. The last 20% was the most interesting for me and I am so curious how it will unfold in the next book!
It has been a minute since a book has surprised me the way this one did! The ending took a turn I never would have guessed and I am glad for it. I need to know what happens next!
The Imrati trials follows Nyah the illegitimate daughter of a cruel sorcerer king. When a prophecy is given to the king and he announces The Imrati trials will be taking place (with the prize being a betrothal to Nyah’s sister, Leuruna), Leuruna transfers her powers into Nyah so she can flee the kingdom with them. However she ends up crossing paths with Rivven who saves her and kidnaps her in the same breath. They soon realize both of them want the same thing, the king dead, so they form an alliance to enter the Imrati trials to strike. So the games begin!
I enjoyed the banter between Rivven and Nyah, the action and adventure throughout this book, and the side characters! I do wish we got more of the trials in this book, but I thought Lizzy did a great job of pacing. I was always entertained while reading. The last 20% was the most interesting for me and I am so curious how it will unfold in the next book!
August 20, 2025
The Imrati Tirals is a pulsating and exciting Romantasy ensured to sweep you from your feet.
Nyah is the bastard daughter of an abusive king. Always being kept in the shadows, she has learned to keep her head down while taking care of her more powerful sister, Leuruna. The two have always been there for each other, trying to survive their father's gruelling actions. When Leurana transfers her magic to Nyah in the hope of preventing it from their father's tyranny, Nyah flees and stumbles upon a quest to free her sister. She discovers an intriguing world beyond her father's dark confinement and meets even more intriguing people along the way.
The Characters
Nyah is incredibly sassy, sarcastic and funny. I loved her witty comments, especially when it comes to Rivven. And we can't overlook her bravery and strength despite her dark past. She can be clumsy at times, but funny. And her curiosity and wonder for the world beyond her knowledge is infectious. It makes her exploration even more fascinating.
Now Rivven was kind of your typical brooding, morally grey MMC. I found his heritage and background (original) better written than his personality (classic).
The side characters were also quite interesting. Of course, there is Leuruna, the sister who'll surprise you. And another side character who stood out to me was Galan. He joined the two bickering lovebirds on their journey to enter the Imrati Trials. Galan was the funny side character who ships the main couple, in a fangirling way. So yeah, I love those kinds of characters because they're so relatable as a fangirl reader yourself.
Sisterhood
I loved the sisterly bond between Nyah and Leuruna. I wish we saw more of that, but how they're trying to protect each other is heartwarming. The story addresses some heavy topics that the girls have endured under the king's commands. So it makes you admire their bravery and loyalty. It reminded me of Anna and Else, but reversed, and Anna has to discover her power. And yeah, these heavy topics balanced well with the quirky dialogue.
Plot, Adventure, and Story
These tropes had me immediately hooked:
- Trials (Not as elaborate as I hoped, but still quite adventuresome)
- Touch her and X (So well done!)
- Relectant Allies to Lovers (This makes you doubt the quality of Enemies to Lovers)
- Fascinating Magic System (The background and history were fantastic!)
- Dragons & Elves (Do I need to say more?)
- Captivating Worldbuilding (Very lucidly written)
- An epic ending twist (THIS!!!)
Overall: 3.8🌟
Thank you to Lizzy Gayle and the NerdFam for the eARC.
Nyah is the bastard daughter of an abusive king. Always being kept in the shadows, she has learned to keep her head down while taking care of her more powerful sister, Leuruna. The two have always been there for each other, trying to survive their father's gruelling actions. When Leurana transfers her magic to Nyah in the hope of preventing it from their father's tyranny, Nyah flees and stumbles upon a quest to free her sister. She discovers an intriguing world beyond her father's dark confinement and meets even more intriguing people along the way.
The Characters
Nyah is incredibly sassy, sarcastic and funny. I loved her witty comments, especially when it comes to Rivven. And we can't overlook her bravery and strength despite her dark past. She can be clumsy at times, but funny. And her curiosity and wonder for the world beyond her knowledge is infectious. It makes her exploration even more fascinating.
Now Rivven was kind of your typical brooding, morally grey MMC. I found his heritage and background (original) better written than his personality (classic).
The side characters were also quite interesting. Of course, there is Leuruna, the sister who'll surprise you. And another side character who stood out to me was Galan. He joined the two bickering lovebirds on their journey to enter the Imrati Trials. Galan was the funny side character who ships the main couple, in a fangirling way. So yeah, I love those kinds of characters because they're so relatable as a fangirl reader yourself.
Sisterhood
I loved the sisterly bond between Nyah and Leuruna. I wish we saw more of that, but how they're trying to protect each other is heartwarming. The story addresses some heavy topics that the girls have endured under the king's commands. So it makes you admire their bravery and loyalty. It reminded me of Anna and Else, but reversed, and Anna has to discover her power. And yeah, these heavy topics balanced well with the quirky dialogue.
Plot, Adventure, and Story
These tropes had me immediately hooked:
- Trials (Not as elaborate as I hoped, but still quite adventuresome)
- Touch her and X (So well done!)
- Relectant Allies to Lovers (This makes you doubt the quality of Enemies to Lovers)
- Fascinating Magic System (The background and history were fantastic!)
- Dragons & Elves (Do I need to say more?)
- Captivating Worldbuilding (Very lucidly written)
- An epic ending twist (THIS!!!)
Overall: 3.8🌟
Thank you to Lizzy Gayle and the NerdFam for the eARC.
October 8, 2025
📖 Summary:
In The Imrati Trials by Lizzy Gayle—Nyah, the illegitimate daughter of a cruel sorcerer king, has always lived in the shadows.. overshadowed by her powerful sister and stripped of her place in the world. When her sister transfers her magic to Nyah in a desperate act of protection, Nyah is forced to flee the kingdom and into the path of Rivven, a brooding warrior with secrets as dark as the magic that binds them.
To survive, Nyah must compete in the Imrati Trials—a deadly tournament where only the strongest endure and betrayal runs as deep as blood. As she faces impossible choices, forbidden power, and a growing connection to Rivven, she’s forced to decide what she’s truly willing to risk for freedom, family, and love in a world ruled by cruelty.
⸻
⚔️ Tropes & Vibes:
✨ Magic tournament / deadly trials
👑 Illegitimate princess
🩸 Found power / hidden strength
🔥 Broody morally gray MMC
💔 Sibling loyalty and betrayal
🕯️ Forbidden magic
💀 Corrupt king / high stakes
🌑 Shadow and light imagery
⚡ Slow-burn tension
📜 Secrets, strategy, and rebellion
⸻
💬 My Review:
The ending of this book really threw me for a loop. That was completely unexpected. What happened… honestly, call me naïve, but my mouth was on the floor. 😳
Our FMC Nyah is witty, sharp, and incredibly loyal to the people she loves. Reading this story through her lens kept me hooked from start to finish. Rivven, her love interest, is the perfect morally gray, broody MMC—his layers and backstory made me connect to him even more as the story unfolded. And don’t even get me started on the king. Corrupt doesn’t even begin to cover it. As for Nyah’s sister… WOAH. 🤯
If you’re looking for a fantasy that blends danger, betrayal, and heart with great pacing and a few jaw-dropping twists, I’d absolutely recommend The Imrati Trials. A huge thank you to @thenerdfam for the ARC!
In The Imrati Trials by Lizzy Gayle—Nyah, the illegitimate daughter of a cruel sorcerer king, has always lived in the shadows.. overshadowed by her powerful sister and stripped of her place in the world. When her sister transfers her magic to Nyah in a desperate act of protection, Nyah is forced to flee the kingdom and into the path of Rivven, a brooding warrior with secrets as dark as the magic that binds them.
To survive, Nyah must compete in the Imrati Trials—a deadly tournament where only the strongest endure and betrayal runs as deep as blood. As she faces impossible choices, forbidden power, and a growing connection to Rivven, she’s forced to decide what she’s truly willing to risk for freedom, family, and love in a world ruled by cruelty.
⸻
⚔️ Tropes & Vibes:
✨ Magic tournament / deadly trials
👑 Illegitimate princess
🩸 Found power / hidden strength
🔥 Broody morally gray MMC
💔 Sibling loyalty and betrayal
🕯️ Forbidden magic
💀 Corrupt king / high stakes
🌑 Shadow and light imagery
⚡ Slow-burn tension
📜 Secrets, strategy, and rebellion
⸻
💬 My Review:
The ending of this book really threw me for a loop. That was completely unexpected. What happened… honestly, call me naïve, but my mouth was on the floor. 😳
Our FMC Nyah is witty, sharp, and incredibly loyal to the people she loves. Reading this story through her lens kept me hooked from start to finish. Rivven, her love interest, is the perfect morally gray, broody MMC—his layers and backstory made me connect to him even more as the story unfolded. And don’t even get me started on the king. Corrupt doesn’t even begin to cover it. As for Nyah’s sister… WOAH. 🤯
If you’re looking for a fantasy that blends danger, betrayal, and heart with great pacing and a few jaw-dropping twists, I’d absolutely recommend The Imrati Trials. A huge thank you to @thenerdfam for the ARC!
September 23, 2025
3.75 ⭐ rounded up
What was that ending?! I love a good plot twist at the end to stir everything up!
For me the characters were the true stars here. Nye's journey as she navigates through the world is so interesting to follow as she risks everything to help save her sister from the evil King. Along the way she crosses path with Rivven, who will protect her no matter what; Galan, charming and always ready to save the day; Lou who helps guide Nye in learning to use her powers; and Toro who sweeps in for the trials. Together they all helped to shape Nye's growth in compelling ways.
The worldbuilding was a bit much tbh. So much is happening with the political intrigue, different regions, magical creatures, and whole cultures competing for page time. Elves, dragons, mermaids, pirates, alicorns - you name it, it's here. Fun in theory, but in under 400 pages it was almost overwhelming and left little room for the actual trials, which don't appear until the last 25% of the book or so. Even then the trials are such an underwhelming part compared to how the story was framed.
There's even a lot going on with the magic system here. It's just as packed with elemental magic, healing magic, dream/sleep magic, illusions, even blood magic (though I don’t recall seeing it actually used). It’s creative, but with so many kinds at play, it sometimes felt unfocused.
Overall, the characters with all their banter and the ending twist really carried this for me. Still, I had a good time and will be curious to see where the series goes next.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #theimratitrials #thenerdfam
What was that ending?! I love a good plot twist at the end to stir everything up!
For me the characters were the true stars here. Nye's journey as she navigates through the world is so interesting to follow as she risks everything to help save her sister from the evil King. Along the way she crosses path with Rivven, who will protect her no matter what; Galan, charming and always ready to save the day; Lou who helps guide Nye in learning to use her powers; and Toro who sweeps in for the trials. Together they all helped to shape Nye's growth in compelling ways.
The worldbuilding was a bit much tbh. So much is happening with the political intrigue, different regions, magical creatures, and whole cultures competing for page time. Elves, dragons, mermaids, pirates, alicorns - you name it, it's here. Fun in theory, but in under 400 pages it was almost overwhelming and left little room for the actual trials, which don't appear until the last 25% of the book or so. Even then the trials are such an underwhelming part compared to how the story was framed.
There's even a lot going on with the magic system here. It's just as packed with elemental magic, healing magic, dream/sleep magic, illusions, even blood magic (though I don’t recall seeing it actually used). It’s creative, but with so many kinds at play, it sometimes felt unfocused.
Overall, the characters with all their banter and the ending twist really carried this for me. Still, I had a good time and will be curious to see where the series goes next.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #theimratitrials #thenerdfam
September 19, 2025
I love any book that has trials and magic. Insert: The Imrati Trials. This was such a fantastic read and literally has EVERYTHING I love in a romantasy. I was hooked from the start and couldn’t put the book down. Nyah and Rivven are great characters and their development was perfection. AND Ven 😭🫶🏼!!!!
The twists at the end have me beyond feral for the next book!!!
𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 & 𝓥𝓲𝓫𝓮𝓼:
✨ Slow Burn Romantasy
✨ Reluctant Allies to Lovers
✨ Touch Her and ☠️
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Found Family
✨ Forbidden Magic
✨ Dangerous Trials
✨ Baby Dragons
✨ Grumpy x Grumpy
✨ Dangerous Trials
The twists at the end have me beyond feral for the next book!!!
𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 & 𝓥𝓲𝓫𝓮𝓼:
✨ Slow Burn Romantasy
✨ Reluctant Allies to Lovers
✨ Touch Her and ☠️
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Found Family
✨ Forbidden Magic
✨ Dangerous Trials
✨ Baby Dragons
✨ Grumpy x Grumpy
✨ Dangerous Trials
October 29, 2025
OK, give me a minute. umm... WOW?!
I just finished this book after reading it for a few days and I was hooked. the story is based around 2 sisters, one a princess and one an illegitimate child who sneaks around the palace to hide from the king. She is surprised once the princess hides her magic within her, and goes straight on the run, where she meets Rivven, and they decide to take part in the imrati trails.
The characters were amazing, slow burn romance, the elves, world building, journey they go on. The ending? THAT ENDING?! Mindblown. I cant even put into words.
Can I have book 2 like, now? Please?
Thankyou netgalley for the ARC!
I just finished this book after reading it for a few days and I was hooked. the story is based around 2 sisters, one a princess and one an illegitimate child who sneaks around the palace to hide from the king. She is surprised once the princess hides her magic within her, and goes straight on the run, where she meets Rivven, and they decide to take part in the imrati trails.
The characters were amazing, slow burn romance, the elves, world building, journey they go on. The ending? THAT ENDING?! Mindblown. I cant even put into words.
Can I have book 2 like, now? Please?
Thankyou netgalley for the ARC!
September 27, 2025
• romantasy
• reluctant allies to lovers
• magic, elves and a baby dragon (!!)
• trials
• FMC on the run
The Imrati Trials was a fantastic read!
I love books with trials or tournaments so I immediately needed to read this. Nyah is the illegitimate daughter of a sorcerer king and she doesn’t have much magic herself. That changes when her sister, the princess, transfers her powers to Nyah. Their father is a tyrant and only wants the magic for himself so Nyah runs. This is when we met Rivvan, a warrior with plenty of secrets, and he kidnaps Nyah.
I loved the banter between them and their slow burn romance. 🔥 This book keeps you on your toes with its high stakes, immersive world building and that cliffy!!
• reluctant allies to lovers
• magic, elves and a baby dragon (!!)
• trials
• FMC on the run
The Imrati Trials was a fantastic read!
I love books with trials or tournaments so I immediately needed to read this. Nyah is the illegitimate daughter of a sorcerer king and she doesn’t have much magic herself. That changes when her sister, the princess, transfers her powers to Nyah. Their father is a tyrant and only wants the magic for himself so Nyah runs. This is when we met Rivvan, a warrior with plenty of secrets, and he kidnaps Nyah.
I loved the banter between them and their slow burn romance. 🔥 This book keeps you on your toes with its high stakes, immersive world building and that cliffy!!
September 10, 2025
Oh wow!! What a plot twist!!!
So as an arc reader, that I truly am grateful for this opportunity to Lizzy Gayle, I was definitely not expecting this type of read. The Imrati Trials starts off with two princess sisters who love each other and try to survive from a deranged and overpowering king father who holds a power stone on his staff and withdraws anybody’s power with it, specially his older daughter’s special powers. In secret, she is a very powerful sorceress trying to hide her “raw” power from the king as he drains her from time to time. One day, he’s draining to much out of her that she willing transfers her powers to her sister whom was spying in the balcony. The king demands the capture of the sister whom flees the kingdom in order to hide the magic hidden within her.
Then the story starts with Nyah’s (the younger sister) travels and adventures. She meets mercenaries in the forest and is smitten by one of them. She is caught spying by three of these mercenaries and they attempt to “grape” her when Rivven (the one she is attracted too) kills them off. From here, there is much conversation between them about each other’s purpose/mission but not unravelling much due to secrets and trust issues. They travel to 3 different fae lands in search for answers and preparing for the announced The Imrati Trials by the king. Which they feel is a ruse since there hasn’t been one for many years (even before the princesses were born). So both of them plus Rivven’s friend Galan all sign up for the trials in the soul mission for one of them to win and kill the king. But they find this mission getting difficult to follow through with so many secrets between them, trust issues, jealousy (I loved this part to be honest), the kings order to find the princess and finish her off, etc.
When The Imrati Trials start, she is totally disguised so no one can interfere with her plans to kill the king but she finds herself in a game of survival (similiar to The Hunger Games) and needs to find allies who wants the same thing as her, finish the reign of this evil king. Then she meets Torvo, a beautiful man with wings and carisma who helps her out through the trials, because he is a prince to another kingdom and wishes to win the trials to betroth the princess (Leuruna) so he can put order to all of theses kingdoms that suffered from the kings reign.
Then you have mixed emotions where who is lying and who is telling the truth and Nyah is feeling all sorts of emotions for Rivven and Torvo who have fought by her side.
This book had me puzzled to be honest, because it was one plot after another and the twist at the end just blowed my mind!! I was definitely not expecting this book ending on “this type” of cliffhanger and I WANT MORE. I NEED MORE.
Excellent read with plot twists, jealousy, not so much spice (like maybe 15%), there are dragons (two species at least) amongst other weird creatures, training skills, seers, magic system is awesome, mermaids, etc. It’s packed!!!
So as an arc reader, that I truly am grateful for this opportunity to Lizzy Gayle, I was definitely not expecting this type of read. The Imrati Trials starts off with two princess sisters who love each other and try to survive from a deranged and overpowering king father who holds a power stone on his staff and withdraws anybody’s power with it, specially his older daughter’s special powers. In secret, she is a very powerful sorceress trying to hide her “raw” power from the king as he drains her from time to time. One day, he’s draining to much out of her that she willing transfers her powers to her sister whom was spying in the balcony. The king demands the capture of the sister whom flees the kingdom in order to hide the magic hidden within her.
Then the story starts with Nyah’s (the younger sister) travels and adventures. She meets mercenaries in the forest and is smitten by one of them. She is caught spying by three of these mercenaries and they attempt to “grape” her when Rivven (the one she is attracted too) kills them off. From here, there is much conversation between them about each other’s purpose/mission but not unravelling much due to secrets and trust issues. They travel to 3 different fae lands in search for answers and preparing for the announced The Imrati Trials by the king. Which they feel is a ruse since there hasn’t been one for many years (even before the princesses were born). So both of them plus Rivven’s friend Galan all sign up for the trials in the soul mission for one of them to win and kill the king. But they find this mission getting difficult to follow through with so many secrets between them, trust issues, jealousy (I loved this part to be honest), the kings order to find the princess and finish her off, etc.
When The Imrati Trials start, she is totally disguised so no one can interfere with her plans to kill the king but she finds herself in a game of survival (similiar to The Hunger Games) and needs to find allies who wants the same thing as her, finish the reign of this evil king. Then she meets Torvo, a beautiful man with wings and carisma who helps her out through the trials, because he is a prince to another kingdom and wishes to win the trials to betroth the princess (Leuruna) so he can put order to all of theses kingdoms that suffered from the kings reign.
Then you have mixed emotions where who is lying and who is telling the truth and Nyah is feeling all sorts of emotions for Rivven and Torvo who have fought by her side.
This book had me puzzled to be honest, because it was one plot after another and the twist at the end just blowed my mind!! I was definitely not expecting this book ending on “this type” of cliffhanger and I WANT MORE. I NEED MORE.
Excellent read with plot twists, jealousy, not so much spice (like maybe 15%), there are dragons (two species at least) amongst other weird creatures, training skills, seers, magic system is awesome, mermaids, etc. It’s packed!!!
September 8, 2025
Dear Lizzy. I’m sure you’re a very busy woman, but imma need you to give me book two LIKE NOW!
Never have I ever gasped at a twist so violently in my life. I am still reeling. What an ending.
I’m very pleased to report that The Imrati Trials has made it onto my favourite books of this year and when this comes out on 16th September imma need everyone to drop what they are doing and read it. This has the potential to be one of my top ever series.
I was genuinely hooked within the first few pages of this one. Packed to the brim with all my favourite tropes, The Imrati Trials is dark, funny, exciting and tugs at the heartstrings. The slow burn was delicious, the action was fast-paced and the banter had me giggling. Nyah is a great FMC and Rivven? Holy smokes, if you live for brooding sexy men then you’re going to welcome him into your arms. He is TOP TIER material, even if he is a bloody idiot at times.
Also, a special shout-out to the side characters in this one and the HUGE found family vibes. Galan and Torvo especially, what delicious angels.
Remember to note that this is a dark romantasy so check the trigger warnings!
Thank you so very much to The Nerd Fam and Lizzy Gayle for the advanced ARC. I will be sat here, impatiently, awaiting book two.
Never have I ever gasped at a twist so violently in my life. I am still reeling. What an ending.
I’m very pleased to report that The Imrati Trials has made it onto my favourite books of this year and when this comes out on 16th September imma need everyone to drop what they are doing and read it. This has the potential to be one of my top ever series.
I was genuinely hooked within the first few pages of this one. Packed to the brim with all my favourite tropes, The Imrati Trials is dark, funny, exciting and tugs at the heartstrings. The slow burn was delicious, the action was fast-paced and the banter had me giggling. Nyah is a great FMC and Rivven? Holy smokes, if you live for brooding sexy men then you’re going to welcome him into your arms. He is TOP TIER material, even if he is a bloody idiot at times.
Also, a special shout-out to the side characters in this one and the HUGE found family vibes. Galan and Torvo especially, what delicious angels.
Remember to note that this is a dark romantasy so check the trigger warnings!
Thank you so very much to The Nerd Fam and Lizzy Gayle for the advanced ARC. I will be sat here, impatiently, awaiting book two.
September 13, 2025
I couldn't put this book down for one second. This book was EVERYTHING I wanted it to be, and more. The characters? Loved them. The tension? Sizzling. The plot? MY JAW IS STILL ON THE FLOOR. I can't wait for the next book, I swear I'll jump on it as soon as I see it.
The pacing was great. I was hooked from the very beginning. I loved Nyah from the get-go. She is strong, brave, hard-headed, ruthless, and vengeful (don't we love that?). And Rivven? I think I'm in love. I love how the dynamic between them evolves throughout the book. Even the side characters have a special place in my heart (hi Galan).
And the plot!! The goal was clear from the beginning and it kept me interested the whole time. I loved the creatures, loved the intricate magical aspects, and I am very interested to see where this is all going. Especially after that ending? I need the next book asap!!!
If you want an adventure, a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, while making you slowly fall in love with its characters, this is it.
Thank you Netgalley for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion 🫶🏽
The pacing was great. I was hooked from the very beginning. I loved Nyah from the get-go. She is strong, brave, hard-headed, ruthless, and vengeful (don't we love that?). And Rivven? I think I'm in love. I love how the dynamic between them evolves throughout the book. Even the side characters have a special place in my heart (hi Galan).
And the plot!! The goal was clear from the beginning and it kept me interested the whole time. I loved the creatures, loved the intricate magical aspects, and I am very interested to see where this is all going. Especially after that ending? I need the next book asap!!!
If you want an adventure, a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, while making you slowly fall in love with its characters, this is it.
Thank you Netgalley for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion 🫶🏽
September 19, 2025
This book is extremely easy to read and is entertaining throughout. It has steady pacing the entire length and it also held my focus for the entirely. It has so much potential to be great, but missed the mark for me. However, the ending did have me really intrigued, so I will be giving the second book a try.
For more than half of this book it felt like it was just world building, I was really eager to get into more of the plot. This book is packed with nonstop action and you really do hit the ground running. There’s introductions to lots of creatures and monsters—if you love elves, dragons, and other fantastical creatures, this story will be a joy to read. There’s lots of traveling, so in a way it’s also kind of an adventure story. The magical powers that characters possess was also really cool. Waiting for the characters to finally enter the Imrati was a true test of my patience. There’s more key players that enter the scene here and some bombshell secrets are dropped. The last 17% literally had me so sat.
I’d say the romance was kind of insta-lovey. Nyah and Rivven both have an instant attraction to one another in my opinion. It was hot though!
For more than half of this book it felt like it was just world building, I was really eager to get into more of the plot. This book is packed with nonstop action and you really do hit the ground running. There’s introductions to lots of creatures and monsters—if you love elves, dragons, and other fantastical creatures, this story will be a joy to read. There’s lots of traveling, so in a way it’s also kind of an adventure story. The magical powers that characters possess was also really cool. Waiting for the characters to finally enter the Imrati was a true test of my patience. There’s more key players that enter the scene here and some bombshell secrets are dropped. The last 17% literally had me so sat.
I’d say the romance was kind of insta-lovey. Nyah and Rivven both have an instant attraction to one another in my opinion. It was hot though!
September 18, 2025
Rating: 4/5
I received an eARC for my honest opinion
In this YA romantasy, we meet Nyah—the illegitimate daughter of an abusive king. She has lived her whole life in the shadows, keeping close to the castle to protect her imprisoned half-sister, Leuruna. Leuruna is immensely powerful, and their father drains her magic for his own gain. When Leuruna secretly transfers her magic to Nyah, everything changes: instead of merely surviving, Nyah is forced to flee for her life.
At the same time, Rivven, a brooding assassin, enters the king’s deadly tournament—the Imrati, a brutal trial where the victor claims the legendary power stone and the hand of the princess. Nyah and Rivven’s paths collide, setting the stage for a story filled with danger, secrets, romance, and a surprising twist of fate.
I loved how this book balanced action with strong worldbuilding. The trials were tense and brutal, the pacing steady but engaging, and the twists at the end had me saying OMG—book two, please! Lizzy Gayle made it easy to dive into this world without confusion, which made the story flow smoothly.
Nyah was impulsive at times (I definitely caught myself yelling “girl, you can do better than that”), but her growth—especially in learning to wield her new magic—was satisfying. Rivven was not at all what I expected. I pegged him as the villain early on, but he turned out to be one of the good guys, albeit the broody, dangerously attractive type. Their banter added sparks, and the side characters—especially Galan and Torvo—gave the story a strong found-family vibe that made the group dynamics shine.
This is a dark romantasy, so definitely check trigger warnings before diving in. But if you love deadly trials, magical creatures, sharp banter, and a mix of secrets and slow-burn romance, you’ll want to pick this one up.
I want to thank Owl City Press for the opportunity to review this book.
I received an eARC for my honest opinion
In this YA romantasy, we meet Nyah—the illegitimate daughter of an abusive king. She has lived her whole life in the shadows, keeping close to the castle to protect her imprisoned half-sister, Leuruna. Leuruna is immensely powerful, and their father drains her magic for his own gain. When Leuruna secretly transfers her magic to Nyah, everything changes: instead of merely surviving, Nyah is forced to flee for her life.
At the same time, Rivven, a brooding assassin, enters the king’s deadly tournament—the Imrati, a brutal trial where the victor claims the legendary power stone and the hand of the princess. Nyah and Rivven’s paths collide, setting the stage for a story filled with danger, secrets, romance, and a surprising twist of fate.
I loved how this book balanced action with strong worldbuilding. The trials were tense and brutal, the pacing steady but engaging, and the twists at the end had me saying OMG—book two, please! Lizzy Gayle made it easy to dive into this world without confusion, which made the story flow smoothly.
Nyah was impulsive at times (I definitely caught myself yelling “girl, you can do better than that”), but her growth—especially in learning to wield her new magic—was satisfying. Rivven was not at all what I expected. I pegged him as the villain early on, but he turned out to be one of the good guys, albeit the broody, dangerously attractive type. Their banter added sparks, and the side characters—especially Galan and Torvo—gave the story a strong found-family vibe that made the group dynamics shine.
This is a dark romantasy, so definitely check trigger warnings before diving in. But if you love deadly trials, magical creatures, sharp banter, and a mix of secrets and slow-burn romance, you’ll want to pick this one up.
I want to thank Owl City Press for the opportunity to review this book.
September 14, 2025
Very strong start to the novel. Sharp and twisted enough to hook in the reader.
The story surrounds two sisters, both so different but share the same love for each other. Rune has an unbelievable power, and the heir for the king, while Nyah was the overshadowed youngest with little ability. The plot is definitely fast paced, diving right into the action.
Rivven was a breath of fresh air. He communicated with Nyah, unlikely allies pretty much from the start.
Rune and Nyahs relationship is also very complex and mature. Rune, being the chosen one, knows what’s happening and yet saves her sister from the turmoil that’s about to spill. She entrusts Nyah with her secrets and pushes Nyah past her limits
The writing style—easy to follow but it felt like rambling at times. Though, with Nyah’s personality, it felt like it fit the story’s overall narrative.
I absolutely loved this book, and I can’t wait to see what else is in store for this world and Lizzy Gayle’s future projects.
Thank you the Nerd Fam for the e-ARC!
Personal Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The story surrounds two sisters, both so different but share the same love for each other. Rune has an unbelievable power, and the heir for the king, while Nyah was the overshadowed youngest with little ability. The plot is definitely fast paced, diving right into the action.
Rivven was a breath of fresh air. He communicated with Nyah, unlikely allies pretty much from the start.
Rune and Nyahs relationship is also very complex and mature. Rune, being the chosen one, knows what’s happening and yet saves her sister from the turmoil that’s about to spill. She entrusts Nyah with her secrets and pushes Nyah past her limits
The writing style—easy to follow but it felt like rambling at times. Though, with Nyah’s personality, it felt like it fit the story’s overall narrative.
I absolutely loved this book, and I can’t wait to see what else is in store for this world and Lizzy Gayle’s future projects.
Thank you the Nerd Fam for the e-ARC!
Personal Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 11, 2025
***ARC Reader***
Cheers to Lizzy and the ARC team!
Thanks for letting me join for book #1!
If you liked:
Hunger Games
Game of Thrones
Dungeons and Dragons
Dune
With some Romantasy thrown in… you’ll like this book.
I wasn’t sure how I was feeling about the book and where the storyline was going. Nyah and I were not vibing. But, once we got out of the forest and went to the desert it was game on! Those action and fighting scenes? Chefs kiss. I thought they were great. Galan is my dude. Definitely my fav character. Rivven was a good broody MMC but Galan is my dude. My favorite parts honestly were the world building and meeting new types of characters from different regions of the kingdom.
That ending though??? So many questions. Most importantly what’s going to happen to the baby Ven?! She needs to eat ( Preferably Serano 🤣) and grow up and be strong.
Can’t wait for the next one 🔥
Cheers to Lizzy and the ARC team!
Thanks for letting me join for book #1!
If you liked:
Hunger Games
Game of Thrones
Dungeons and Dragons
Dune
With some Romantasy thrown in… you’ll like this book.
I wasn’t sure how I was feeling about the book and where the storyline was going. Nyah and I were not vibing. But, once we got out of the forest and went to the desert it was game on! Those action and fighting scenes? Chefs kiss. I thought they were great. Galan is my dude. Definitely my fav character. Rivven was a good broody MMC but Galan is my dude. My favorite parts honestly were the world building and meeting new types of characters from different regions of the kingdom.
That ending though??? So many questions. Most importantly what’s going to happen to the baby Ven?! She needs to eat ( Preferably Serano 🤣) and grow up and be strong.
Can’t wait for the next one 🔥
September 5, 2025
A stolen magic. A broken kingdom. A sister worth risking everything for.
The Imrati Trials is a romantasy that blends dark magic with dark family drama. Complex driven characters who have secrets create an immersive dynamic world building story that keeps you invested on what will happen next.
Nyah stays to the shadows as she doesn’t like attention and protects her sister Leuruna who has been abused by the King, their father, for his own dark ambitions.
Nyah crosses paths with Riven, an assassin on a mission and one she makes an alliance with to help her sister escape their father.
The story is fast paced and one MUST pay attention to the story within the story because the last two chapters… MIND BLOWN . It does end in a cliffhanger and you'll be wanting book two STAT.
Many thanks to the author and Nerd Family for the eArc.
The Imrati Trials is a romantasy that blends dark magic with dark family drama. Complex driven characters who have secrets create an immersive dynamic world building story that keeps you invested on what will happen next.
Nyah stays to the shadows as she doesn’t like attention and protects her sister Leuruna who has been abused by the King, their father, for his own dark ambitions.
Nyah crosses paths with Riven, an assassin on a mission and one she makes an alliance with to help her sister escape their father.
The story is fast paced and one MUST pay attention to the story within the story because the last two chapters… MIND BLOWN . It does end in a cliffhanger and you'll be wanting book two STAT.
Many thanks to the author and Nerd Family for the eArc.
September 15, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Such a fun and interesting book! If you’re looking for all things fantasy then this is the book for you! It has a unique Magic system, all kinds of fae and creatures and there are dragons!
I really enjoyed the world building in this book. It slowly unfolds as the characters travel from place to place so you get to experience everything for the first time just as the FMC does which makes it fun to read.
I also loved the mystery surrounding the FMC and watching her grow as a character. The MMC and the side characters were perfect in this book and had me laughing several times out loud!
I will say I did not see that ending coming! Definitely a unique twist to the plot which makes waiting for book 2 hard but also so very excited for when it happens!
You’ll enjoy this book if you like:
•Unique Magic System
•Dragons
•Different Fae and Creatures
•Trial Setting
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Such a fun and interesting book! If you’re looking for all things fantasy then this is the book for you! It has a unique Magic system, all kinds of fae and creatures and there are dragons!
I really enjoyed the world building in this book. It slowly unfolds as the characters travel from place to place so you get to experience everything for the first time just as the FMC does which makes it fun to read.
I also loved the mystery surrounding the FMC and watching her grow as a character. The MMC and the side characters were perfect in this book and had me laughing several times out loud!
I will say I did not see that ending coming! Definitely a unique twist to the plot which makes waiting for book 2 hard but also so very excited for when it happens!
You’ll enjoy this book if you like:
•Unique Magic System
•Dragons
•Different Fae and Creatures
•Trial Setting
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 14, 2025
This one started off strong but then the pacing slowed and lost its grip on me. I found myself putting it down and going back to it more often than not but I did like the concept of the book with the anticipation of trials and the outcome.
I did enjoy the banter between the MCs and then by the last few chapters when we did get to the trials, it regained my attention and left me shocked at the cliff.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC!
I did enjoy the banter between the MCs and then by the last few chapters when we did get to the trials, it regained my attention and left me shocked at the cliff.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC!
September 14, 2025
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via The Nerd Fam)
3.75 stars
I enjoyed the banter between the characters but could have used more tension between Rivven and Nyah before their relationship began. And more world building. I was also surprised by making it through most of the book before the trials actually began.
The ending though? Kind of blew my kind. Had zero indication that was coming AT ALL.
3.75 stars
I enjoyed the banter between the characters but could have used more tension between Rivven and Nyah before their relationship began. And more world building. I was also surprised by making it through most of the book before the trials actually began.
The ending though? Kind of blew my kind. Had zero indication that was coming AT ALL.
September 1, 2025
This was a good high stakes fantasy story with a fast moving plot. This element definitely kept my attention as there was never a dull moment. I loved the morally gray characters, the deadly trials, and all of the magical beings. With that ending I’ll definitely be picking up book two!
Thank you to The NerdFam for the gifted copy of the book.
Thank you to The NerdFam for the gifted copy of the book.
September 11, 2025
The twists and turns! Just when you thought you figured it out you were wrong.
Story of one sister fighting for the others freedom, from their evil father the king. She meets Rivver and has teamed up with him because they have the same goal, to kill the king. Magic, love, found family, and if you love trials and games or a strong FMC you will love this one!
Story of one sister fighting for the others freedom, from their evil father the king. She meets Rivver and has teamed up with him because they have the same goal, to kill the king. Magic, love, found family, and if you love trials and games or a strong FMC you will love this one!
September 3, 2025
Fast paced, fantasy adventure full of unique characters with trials, a twist I didn’t see coming and a cliff hanger ending that leaves you wanting more, The Imrati Trials is a must read! I was hooked from the first page and loved how the author introduces several different magical kingdoms and characters throughout the book. I can’t wait to see where this story goes in book two!
September 5, 2025
This book was fantastic! Secrets, lies, magic, betrayal, dragons, baby dragons, trials, mystery, action, suspense, love…it had it all. And that ending left my jaw on the floor! I need the next book now!
September 10, 2025
I give this book 4 1/2 ⭐️ I really enjoyed it. I loved all the hints to the twist love the magic system we got a evil king trials in a fantasy world what’s not to love can’t wait for the next book
August 31, 2025
Yoooooo! The Imrati Trials is a fast-paced fantasy that mixes beloved tropes—an overlooked heroine, forced proximity, and deadly trials—with darker themes of tyranny, sacrifice, and survival.
Here, we follow Nyah (our FMC’s) journey from illegitimate daughter to unexpected power bearer and it is both gripping and emotional. Add in a tense alliance with the MMC and you get intrigue + slow-burn romance.
There are trials, 🐉, a cool magic system, good vs evil, strong bad ass women, and a hot af MMC (or 2??)
I cannot stress enough how much fun this book is! Hooked from the beginning with excellent pacing and the ending cliffhanger??!!
I AM REELING. GIVE ME BOOK 2 NOW. 6 ⭐️
Many thanks to both the Nerdfam and NetGalley for the gifted ARC
Here, we follow Nyah (our FMC’s) journey from illegitimate daughter to unexpected power bearer and it is both gripping and emotional. Add in a tense alliance with the MMC and you get intrigue + slow-burn romance.
There are trials, 🐉, a cool magic system, good vs evil, strong bad ass women, and a hot af MMC (or 2??)
I cannot stress enough how much fun this book is! Hooked from the beginning with excellent pacing and the ending cliffhanger??!!
I AM REELING. GIVE ME BOOK 2 NOW. 6 ⭐️
Many thanks to both the Nerdfam and NetGalley for the gifted ARC
August 20, 2025
This book was absolutely amazing from start to finish. The story was packed with so many unexpected twists and turns that kept me hooked and constantly on edge. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, something new happened that completely changed the direction of the story. The ending left me completely shocked, it was the kind of finale that makes you sit there for a moment, just processing everything. I can already tell this is going to be a series I’ll be thinking about long after finishing, and I honestly cannot wait to get my hands on the next book.
September 17, 2025
WHAT AN ENDING!
Seriously, I gasped out loud in the car service department while finishing the last chapter. Entirely unexpected and so well done! I'm still reeling a few hours later.
Nyah is on the run from her father, the evil king, who is trying to steal the powers Nyah's sister just gave her for safekeeping. Faced with this new magic, Nyah has to learn to wield it if she wants to compete in the Imrati trials and get close enough to k1ll her father.
She teams up with a few characters who work together and have such a fun dynamic. There's a dragon (which I did not expect!), Pegasus, different Elven races, and other human species.
This had me captivated the whole time! I loved the slow relationship building between her and Rivven, but then we also get introduced to another MMC who seems like he's going to complicate things.
Read if you love:
-Forbidden magic
-Dragons
-Trials
-Reluctant allies to lovers
-Love triangle
-Elves
Thank you to City Owl books for the ARC. My thoughts are entirely my own.
Seriously, I gasped out loud in the car service department while finishing the last chapter. Entirely unexpected and so well done! I'm still reeling a few hours later.
Nyah is on the run from her father, the evil king, who is trying to steal the powers Nyah's sister just gave her for safekeeping. Faced with this new magic, Nyah has to learn to wield it if she wants to compete in the Imrati trials and get close enough to k1ll her father.
She teams up with a few characters who work together and have such a fun dynamic. There's a dragon (which I did not expect!), Pegasus, different Elven races, and other human species.
This had me captivated the whole time! I loved the slow relationship building between her and Rivven, but then we also get introduced to another MMC who seems like he's going to complicate things.
Read if you love:
-Forbidden magic
-Dragons
-Trials
-Reluctant allies to lovers
-Love triangle
-Elves
Thank you to City Owl books for the ARC. My thoughts are entirely my own.
August 29, 2025
What an adventure this book was!
The pace was on 10!
The action was on 10!
And you should be forewarned, Lizzy does leave you standing on the edge of the cliff!!!!
Two sisters, raised in the same Kingdom but living TOTALLY different lives. A Kingdom that has been plunged into forever darkness, by the evil King they call Father. Rune, an unparalleled magic weilder, is kept locked away in a room, from the world and her own kingdom. Nyah is tossed aside, forgotten about, and allowed to roam in the shadows of the keep, as she is less powerful. Therefore, she has nothing the King wants.
And the evil king has spent years abusing Rune and draining her of her powers, while Nyah has watched in fear.
One day, Rune has had enough. Once she learns her Father is reinstating the Imrati Trials and the vitcor will choose her betrothed so that he can continue to hold the powerful gem of his kingdom while continously siphoning her own magic from her, leaving her sickly & fragile, she transfers her power to Nyah & tells her to run, live free and keep the power away from their father at all costs.
Nyah escapes by the skin of her teeth and is on the run from the Kings guard. On the other side of the walls she has never even seen before now, she must find a way to survive and has sworn to free her sister from the torture they have endured all of their lives. Nyah runs into a crew of what seems to be pirates, and the like as her life takes yet another turn, she can't even begin to imagine that will not just shatter everything she has ever known but will also transform the plans she has to free her sister.
Nyah not only does meet her first friend ever, but she learns the stories she has read since she was a child are not just make-believe!
She realizes that outside of the walls of the kingdom, there is day and night, dragons, elemental elves, alicorns, and magic that was thought to be extinct!
She also finds others who want the same thing she wants... to rid the world of the evil king and restore the balance of power.
With her newfound family, Nyah begins to hone her magic and finds the strength to finally stand up and fight for what she believes in.
Nyah, Rivven & Galan register for the 460th Imrati Trails, which haven't been held since the evil came into rule years before. With his position being threatened by the escape of his daughter, the evil king will stop at nothing to capture Nyah, but once the Imrati has begun, he can not harm her....not by his own hands anyway.
Since being on the run, Nyah has also learned she is linked to her sister, and through their link, she sees that things are much worse than she initially thought. But giving up or turning back is not an option. One way or another, the King and his equally evil powerful sorcerer must be stopped.
The Trials themselves are very creative and wild!!!! Though the outcome of these trails will determine what becomes of Nyah, Rune & all 3 Kingdoms, the story is soooo much more than just the trails, and I LOVED every second of it!
If you are ready for an adventure, I HIGHLY recommend you read The Imrati Trials. This story is full of love, pain, magic, MANY marvelous creatures, and my personal favorite, found family 🤗🤗
The ending was ABSOLUTELY NOT AT ALL what I thought was coming 👀 Lizzy definitely knew what she was doing when she wrote that extraordinary twist!!
((I was in bed reading & HAD to walk outside to finish the last few pages, so I could stomp & growl a little bit 😂😂😂))
You WILL fall in love with ALL of our main characters ♥️
You WILL continue turning the page!
You WILL laugh, gasp & sit in shock and want to punch someone a few times, but you WILL root them on every step of the way.
I would like to thank The Nerd Fam and Lizzy Gayle for this ARC!!! What a dang adventure this was!! ALSO, MA'AM that ending had me laid out staring into the ether! 🙉🙈🙊💀 I NEED to know the rest of the story!!!!
The pace was on 10!
The action was on 10!
And you should be forewarned, Lizzy does leave you standing on the edge of the cliff!!!!
Two sisters, raised in the same Kingdom but living TOTALLY different lives. A Kingdom that has been plunged into forever darkness, by the evil King they call Father. Rune, an unparalleled magic weilder, is kept locked away in a room, from the world and her own kingdom. Nyah is tossed aside, forgotten about, and allowed to roam in the shadows of the keep, as she is less powerful. Therefore, she has nothing the King wants.
And the evil king has spent years abusing Rune and draining her of her powers, while Nyah has watched in fear.
One day, Rune has had enough. Once she learns her Father is reinstating the Imrati Trials and the vitcor will choose her betrothed so that he can continue to hold the powerful gem of his kingdom while continously siphoning her own magic from her, leaving her sickly & fragile, she transfers her power to Nyah & tells her to run, live free and keep the power away from their father at all costs.
Nyah escapes by the skin of her teeth and is on the run from the Kings guard. On the other side of the walls she has never even seen before now, she must find a way to survive and has sworn to free her sister from the torture they have endured all of their lives. Nyah runs into a crew of what seems to be pirates, and the like as her life takes yet another turn, she can't even begin to imagine that will not just shatter everything she has ever known but will also transform the plans she has to free her sister.
Nyah not only does meet her first friend ever, but she learns the stories she has read since she was a child are not just make-believe!
She realizes that outside of the walls of the kingdom, there is day and night, dragons, elemental elves, alicorns, and magic that was thought to be extinct!
She also finds others who want the same thing she wants... to rid the world of the evil king and restore the balance of power.
With her newfound family, Nyah begins to hone her magic and finds the strength to finally stand up and fight for what she believes in.
Nyah, Rivven & Galan register for the 460th Imrati Trails, which haven't been held since the evil came into rule years before. With his position being threatened by the escape of his daughter, the evil king will stop at nothing to capture Nyah, but once the Imrati has begun, he can not harm her....not by his own hands anyway.
Since being on the run, Nyah has also learned she is linked to her sister, and through their link, she sees that things are much worse than she initially thought. But giving up or turning back is not an option. One way or another, the King and his equally evil powerful sorcerer must be stopped.
The Trials themselves are very creative and wild!!!! Though the outcome of these trails will determine what becomes of Nyah, Rune & all 3 Kingdoms, the story is soooo much more than just the trails, and I LOVED every second of it!
If you are ready for an adventure, I HIGHLY recommend you read The Imrati Trials. This story is full of love, pain, magic, MANY marvelous creatures, and my personal favorite, found family 🤗🤗
The ending was ABSOLUTELY NOT AT ALL what I thought was coming 👀 Lizzy definitely knew what she was doing when she wrote that extraordinary twist!!
((I was in bed reading & HAD to walk outside to finish the last few pages, so I could stomp & growl a little bit 😂😂😂))
You WILL fall in love with ALL of our main characters ♥️
You WILL continue turning the page!
You WILL laugh, gasp & sit in shock and want to punch someone a few times, but you WILL root them on every step of the way.
I would like to thank The Nerd Fam and Lizzy Gayle for this ARC!!! What a dang adventure this was!! ALSO, MA'AM that ending had me laid out staring into the ether! 🙉🙈🙊💀 I NEED to know the rest of the story!!!!
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