What do you think?
Rate this book
Win a free print copy of this book!
20 days and 23:27:49
10 copies available
U.S. and Canada only
The Mortal Trials
Not yet published
Expected 14 Jul 26Win a free print copy of this book!
20 days and 23:27:49
10 copies available
U.S. and Canada only
A new dark and spicy epic romantasy debut, perfect for fans of Shield of Sparrows and Rose in Chains.
Forced to partake in the deadly Mortal Trials, Lirah must keep a cool head, or she'll lose it. But the heart often has a way of complicating things...
Every decade, thirteen mortals are chosen to compete in the Mortal Trials for the ultimate prize: immortality. But those who fail, die. For Lirah, survival is vital.
When Lirah is ripped from her bed in the middle of the night, she finds herself in the foreign land of the elven. Forced to participate in a series of challenges which will threaten her every survival instinct, Lirah’s been advised to guard her life, but with brooding instructor Kilian Valhan guiding her through the challenges, she should have been warned to shield her heart. Linked for the duration of the Trials, simply ignoring Kilian is not an option. He’s everywhere she goes. Even worse – he’s in her head. But as the Trials force Lirah and Kilian closer, it becomes harder to resist the undeniable chemistry sparking between them.
As Lirah competes for her life, she questions the motives behind the Mortal Trials – why is no mortal allowed to volunteer for the Trials, and why has there only been a single survivor in seven decades? The Gods are stirring and the truth surrounding the missing Goddess of War will challenge everything Lirah thought she knew about who – and what – she truly is.
An addictive and enthralling adventure for anyone who loves an enemies-to-lovers romantasy with high stakes and plenty of thrills!
Forced to partake in the deadly Mortal Trials, Lirah must keep a cool head, or she'll lose it. But the heart often has a way of complicating things...
Every decade, thirteen mortals are chosen to compete in the Mortal Trials for the ultimate prize: immortality. But those who fail, die. For Lirah, survival is vital.
When Lirah is ripped from her bed in the middle of the night, she finds herself in the foreign land of the elven. Forced to participate in a series of challenges which will threaten her every survival instinct, Lirah’s been advised to guard her life, but with brooding instructor Kilian Valhan guiding her through the challenges, she should have been warned to shield her heart. Linked for the duration of the Trials, simply ignoring Kilian is not an option. He’s everywhere she goes. Even worse – he’s in her head. But as the Trials force Lirah and Kilian closer, it becomes harder to resist the undeniable chemistry sparking between them.
As Lirah competes for her life, she questions the motives behind the Mortal Trials – why is no mortal allowed to volunteer for the Trials, and why has there only been a single survivor in seven decades? The Gods are stirring and the truth surrounding the missing Goddess of War will challenge everything Lirah thought she knew about who – and what – she truly is.
An addictive and enthralling adventure for anyone who loves an enemies-to-lovers romantasy with high stakes and plenty of thrills!
Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 14, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Want to Read
November 13, 2025Already waiting at the bookstore for this!
February 27, 2026
This book ticks everything off in the list of needs for a romantasy novel:
- High stakes
- Feisty heroine
- Dark, sexy love interest (whew!)
- A trio of friends that’ll warm your heart
- and so many plot twists!
Combined with the author’s easy-to-read writing style, it’s a quick, sexy and adventurous read.
- High stakes
- Feisty heroine
- Dark, sexy love interest (whew!)
- A trio of friends that’ll warm your heart
- and so many plot twists!
Combined with the author’s easy-to-read writing style, it’s a quick, sexy and adventurous read.
November 11, 2025
I can’t begin to express how this book fundamentally changed my life. Get ready for an epic story
May 18, 2026
HOLY CRAP, the chokehold this book had on me from the very beginning… it needs to be studied. I absolutely ate this up! The only bad thing about reading books before they’re released is already dying for book two when book one hasn’t officially released yet lmao, and I NEED BOOK TWO!
Kilian & Lirah are PERFECTION. all of the characters are, really. Lana & Septimus were adorable, too & I really just loved Lana’s character. But Kilian & Lirah… man, this romance will have you thirsty. their constant push and pull, the tug-of-war, the way you wanna sometimes slap Lirah upside her head because she’s not fooling anyone, not even herself was insane.
But mostly, I just really loved the plot! if the epic, slow burn romance won’t keep you, the unique plot will, like it kept me up way past my bedtime because I NEEDED answers. & while I somewhat guessed the big plot twist, it was no less such a great time reading!
⚔️ in this, you’ll see:
✧.* true enemies to lovers
✧.* deadly trials
✧.* found family
✧.* slow burn
✧.* touch her & die
✧.* “who did this to you?”
✧.* he’d burn the world down for her
✧.* strong female friendships
✧.* forced proximity
✧.* gods, fae, elven
✧.* complex magic
✧.* hidden identity
5⭐️
2🌶️
🫶🏼 huge thank you to @angryrobotbooks for this #gifted copy!
Kilian & Lirah are PERFECTION. all of the characters are, really. Lana & Septimus were adorable, too & I really just loved Lana’s character. But Kilian & Lirah… man, this romance will have you thirsty. their constant push and pull, the tug-of-war, the way you wanna sometimes slap Lirah upside her head because she’s not fooling anyone, not even herself was insane.
But mostly, I just really loved the plot! if the epic, slow burn romance won’t keep you, the unique plot will, like it kept me up way past my bedtime because I NEEDED answers. & while I somewhat guessed the big plot twist, it was no less such a great time reading!
⚔️ in this, you’ll see:
✧.* true enemies to lovers
✧.* deadly trials
✧.* found family
✧.* slow burn
✧.* touch her & die
✧.* “who did this to you?”
✧.* he’d burn the world down for her
✧.* strong female friendships
✧.* forced proximity
✧.* gods, fae, elven
✧.* complex magic
✧.* hidden identity
5⭐️
2🌶️
🫶🏼 huge thank you to @angryrobotbooks for this #gifted copy!
May 25, 2026
3.5* - thank you to NetGalley and Angry Robot for approving me for this arc.
For what I liked about this book:
. Banter - really enjoyed the banter and sparring interactions with Lirah and Kilian. I actually found myself laughing at points, because I enjoyed the back and forth between them.
. Steamy scenes - they were good and felt different to what I’ve read before.
. The trials - they were given enough time for you to feel the stakes and what the characters were going through.
. Lana - I enjoyed the dynamic of Lana with another character (I don’t want to say and spoil it). I do wish there was more of them.
For what I wasn’t a fan of:
. Lirah - I just felt that she swore unnecessarily and there were F words left right and centre (even if one of the characters states that they like her sailor mouth). I will say, I did prefer her when she wasn’t near her love interest.
. The romance - I never truly feel like Lirah’s feelings were genuine and that she was just saying what her love interest wanted to hear. His were genuine and you could see the natural progression for him (I’ve actually highlighted some of his), but I wasn’t a huge fan of hers.
. Tropes - I love a trope, but when a character is taking his shirt off 40 pages in and our FMC is heart eyes and feeling attraction, it just feels way too soon. There were other elements throughout the book that felt like the author was ticking off a list of tropes.
I wouldn’t say this was enemies to lovers, as it felt too insta lovey/attraction for me - like they were both heart eyes from the get go which isn’t something I particularly enjoy. It felt as if it was written as more hate to lovers than enemies to lovers.
I do think this is a good book, and I did enjoy the other characters. The ending is very interesting and I would be intrigued to read the sequel. If you like trials, elves, gods, and magic - then no doubt you will enjoy this.
For what I liked about this book:
. Banter - really enjoyed the banter and sparring interactions with Lirah and Kilian. I actually found myself laughing at points, because I enjoyed the back and forth between them.
. Steamy scenes - they were good and felt different to what I’ve read before.
. The trials - they were given enough time for you to feel the stakes and what the characters were going through.
. Lana - I enjoyed the dynamic of Lana with another character (I don’t want to say and spoil it). I do wish there was more of them.
For what I wasn’t a fan of:
. Lirah - I just felt that she swore unnecessarily and there were F words left right and centre (even if one of the characters states that they like her sailor mouth). I will say, I did prefer her when she wasn’t near her love interest.
. The romance - I never truly feel like Lirah’s feelings were genuine and that she was just saying what her love interest wanted to hear. His were genuine and you could see the natural progression for him (I’ve actually highlighted some of his), but I wasn’t a huge fan of hers.
. Tropes - I love a trope, but when a character is taking his shirt off 40 pages in and our FMC is heart eyes and feeling attraction, it just feels way too soon. There were other elements throughout the book that felt like the author was ticking off a list of tropes.
I wouldn’t say this was enemies to lovers, as it felt too insta lovey/attraction for me - like they were both heart eyes from the get go which isn’t something I particularly enjoy. It felt as if it was written as more hate to lovers than enemies to lovers.
I do think this is a good book, and I did enjoy the other characters. The ending is very interesting and I would be intrigued to read the sequel. If you like trials, elves, gods, and magic - then no doubt you will enjoy this.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely inhaled The Mortal Trials, another one I finished in a single day and I’m luckily on a great streak from Netgalley arcs with great bingeable, debut romantasies.
This follows a brutal, high-stakes trial system in a elven world where mortals are pushed to their limits for survival and the chance for immortality with something more lurking beneath the surface. From the start, it throws you straight into a world of competition, constant tension, and it does not let up.
The trials were a highlight for me — fast-paced, ruthless, and full of twists that kept me hooked the entire time. There’s that addictive “just one more chapter” energy because you need to know who makes it through and what is happening next (particularly between the main characters)
The characters really carried this (and side characters - loved the sprite helpers!) Strong, determined, and layered with just enough vulnerability to keep them grounded. The dynamics between them added to the tension, especially with the underlying mistrust and power plays woven throughout. The romance had that darker, slightly dangerous edge which I love and twists on twists, that I did not see coming!
It leans into familiar tropes, but in a way that just works. Enemies to lovers, Competitive trials, morally grey characters, survival stakes, slow-burn tension, forced proximity, instructor/trainee, found family, banter —it hits all the right beats without feeling flat or overdone.
Overall, such an addictive, fast-paced read that completely pulled me in. If you love deadly trials, tension-filled dynamics, and that feeling of being unable to put a book down, this absolutely delivers!
Thanks Netgalley for the e-arc, Angry Robot Books for granting the wish to read it for a honest review and Megan for writing this great and addictive book. I am very ready for the next one in this Duology (ugh that ending!)
This follows a brutal, high-stakes trial system in a elven world where mortals are pushed to their limits for survival and the chance for immortality with something more lurking beneath the surface. From the start, it throws you straight into a world of competition, constant tension, and it does not let up.
The trials were a highlight for me — fast-paced, ruthless, and full of twists that kept me hooked the entire time. There’s that addictive “just one more chapter” energy because you need to know who makes it through and what is happening next (particularly between the main characters)
The characters really carried this (and side characters - loved the sprite helpers!) Strong, determined, and layered with just enough vulnerability to keep them grounded. The dynamics between them added to the tension, especially with the underlying mistrust and power plays woven throughout. The romance had that darker, slightly dangerous edge which I love and twists on twists, that I did not see coming!
It leans into familiar tropes, but in a way that just works. Enemies to lovers, Competitive trials, morally grey characters, survival stakes, slow-burn tension, forced proximity, instructor/trainee, found family, banter —it hits all the right beats without feeling flat or overdone.
Overall, such an addictive, fast-paced read that completely pulled me in. If you love deadly trials, tension-filled dynamics, and that feeling of being unable to put a book down, this absolutely delivers!
Thanks Netgalley for the e-arc, Angry Robot Books for granting the wish to read it for a honest review and Megan for writing this great and addictive book. I am very ready for the next one in this Duology (ugh that ending!)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Mortal Trials delivers a fast paced, emotionally charged romantasy that’s easy to sink into from the first chapter. The pacing is consistently strong, keeping the story moving without ever feeling rushed, and the final 10 percent ramps up dramatically, delivering the kind of high stakes payoff that makes an ARC feel exciting to read early.
The worldbuilding isn’t heavy or overwhelming, but it’s clear, accessible, and atmospheric enough to support the plot without bogging you down. This lighter touch actually works in the book’s favour, letting the character dynamics and the Trials themselves take centre stage.
Where the story shines most is in its well crafted characters. Lirah and Kilian feel fully realised, and their emotional arcs land with real weight. The romance is palpable, threaded with tension and genuine emotional depth that enhances rather than distracts from the Trials. Their chemistry feels earned, and the emotional beats hit exactly where they should.
The plot is tightly constructed, with each challenge and reveal building toward a cohesive whole. Even when the story leans into familiar tropes, it does so with confidence and clarity. That said, it does carry a sense of familiarity readers of Empire of Flame and Thorns, Nature’s Tributes, or This Vicious Dream will notice strong thematic and tonal parallels. It’s not derivative, but it definitely sits in the same narrative lineage, which may feel either comfortingly familiar or slightly predictable depending on the reader.
Overall, The Mortal Trials is a compelling romantasy debut with emotional resonance, sharp pacing, and a finale that grips hard. Fans of character driven fantasy with high stakes and simmering tension will find plenty to love here.
The worldbuilding isn’t heavy or overwhelming, but it’s clear, accessible, and atmospheric enough to support the plot without bogging you down. This lighter touch actually works in the book’s favour, letting the character dynamics and the Trials themselves take centre stage.
Where the story shines most is in its well crafted characters. Lirah and Kilian feel fully realised, and their emotional arcs land with real weight. The romance is palpable, threaded with tension and genuine emotional depth that enhances rather than distracts from the Trials. Their chemistry feels earned, and the emotional beats hit exactly where they should.
The plot is tightly constructed, with each challenge and reveal building toward a cohesive whole. Even when the story leans into familiar tropes, it does so with confidence and clarity. That said, it does carry a sense of familiarity readers of Empire of Flame and Thorns, Nature’s Tributes, or This Vicious Dream will notice strong thematic and tonal parallels. It’s not derivative, but it definitely sits in the same narrative lineage, which may feel either comfortingly familiar or slightly predictable depending on the reader.
Overall, The Mortal Trials is a compelling romantasy debut with emotional resonance, sharp pacing, and a finale that grips hard. Fans of character driven fantasy with high stakes and simmering tension will find plenty to love here.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The Mortal Trials had me hooked ridiculously fast. Deadly trials, survival stakes, morally grey characters, slow-burn tension??? Inject it directly into my veins.
I absolutely flew through this book because every chapter ended with me needing to know what was going to happen next. The trials themselves were intense, fast-paced, and genuinely entertaining, but what really sold me was the character dynamics underneath all the chaos.
Lirah was such a strong FMC without losing her vulnerability, and Kilian… yeah, I get the hype. Broody mentor energy, constant tension, morally questionable decisions, and that underlying “I shouldn’t want you but unfortunately I do” vibe? It worked on me immediately.
I also loved that the world-building didn’t dump everything on you at once. It slowly unfolded as the story went on, which made it super easy to get immersed straight away. There are definitely familiar romantasy tropes in here, but they’re done in a way that still feels addictive and exciting rather than repetitive.
The second half especially had me in an absolute chokehold. Twists, betrayals, emotional moments, tension everywhere. I was STRESSED in the best way possible!!
If you love:
* deadly trials
* enemies/tension-filled dynamics
* morally grey love interests
* slow burn romance
* found family vibes
* “just one more chapter” energy
…then this absolutely delivers.
Overall, such an addictive romantasy debut and I already know I’ll be first in line for book two because that ending??? RUDE.
The Mortal Trials had me hooked ridiculously fast. Deadly trials, survival stakes, morally grey characters, slow-burn tension??? Inject it directly into my veins.
I absolutely flew through this book because every chapter ended with me needing to know what was going to happen next. The trials themselves were intense, fast-paced, and genuinely entertaining, but what really sold me was the character dynamics underneath all the chaos.
Lirah was such a strong FMC without losing her vulnerability, and Kilian… yeah, I get the hype. Broody mentor energy, constant tension, morally questionable decisions, and that underlying “I shouldn’t want you but unfortunately I do” vibe? It worked on me immediately.
I also loved that the world-building didn’t dump everything on you at once. It slowly unfolded as the story went on, which made it super easy to get immersed straight away. There are definitely familiar romantasy tropes in here, but they’re done in a way that still feels addictive and exciting rather than repetitive.
The second half especially had me in an absolute chokehold. Twists, betrayals, emotional moments, tension everywhere. I was STRESSED in the best way possible!!
If you love:
* deadly trials
* enemies/tension-filled dynamics
* morally grey love interests
* slow burn romance
* found family vibes
* “just one more chapter” energy
…then this absolutely delivers.
Overall, such an addictive romantasy debut and I already know I’ll be first in line for book two because that ending??? RUDE.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
One of the top books I’ve read this year! I absolutely love books that include trials, and that was the main reason I picked this one up and I’m so glad I did because I could not put it down. First off, there are good writers and then there are truly exceptional ones, and Megan Shunmugam is definitely the latter. The writing was Amazing from start to finish, and the characters felt so real and easy to connect with. Lirah, our FMC, was fantastic. I loved her personality so much. There were definitely moments where I got frustrated with her choices, but honestly, her feelings and crash outs were completely valid given everything she was going through.
And then we have our MMC dark, mysterious, and incredibly sexy. I really appreciated that this wasn’t an insta love romance. Their relationship developed naturally over time, building through tension, and trust. Lirah’s hatred toward him in the beginning also made perfect sense, which made their dynamic even more engaging to watch unfold.
The side characters were just as lovable, and I found myself getting emotionally attached to all of them. There were moments that genuinely had me tearing up, but there were also so many fantastic scenes with incredible banter. The balance of emotion, humor, romance, and tension was done perfectly.
I loved this book so much and genuinely cannot recommend it enough. I’ll definitely be promoting it fiercely when it releases in July, and I already know I’ll be buying the hardcover edition for my shelf. That cliffhanger ending absolutely wrecked me though.... I need book two immediately!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
And then we have our MMC dark, mysterious, and incredibly sexy. I really appreciated that this wasn’t an insta love romance. Their relationship developed naturally over time, building through tension, and trust. Lirah’s hatred toward him in the beginning also made perfect sense, which made their dynamic even more engaging to watch unfold.
The side characters were just as lovable, and I found myself getting emotionally attached to all of them. There were moments that genuinely had me tearing up, but there were also so many fantastic scenes with incredible banter. The balance of emotion, humor, romance, and tension was done perfectly.
I loved this book so much and genuinely cannot recommend it enough. I’ll definitely be promoting it fiercely when it releases in July, and I already know I’ll be buying the hardcover edition for my shelf. That cliffhanger ending absolutely wrecked me though.... I need book two immediately!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 23, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4–4.5 stars)
Thank you to Netgalley for an Arc copy of The Mortal Trials!
This book was such a fun read, and the last 20% absolutely blew my mind. I will be grabbing book 2 asap!!
The story follows Lirah, a girl who mysteriously appeared on the doorstep of a mortal governor’s house as a baby and was taken in by one of the kitchen workers. Every decade, thirteen mortals from each island of Tarlor are chosen for the infamous Mortal Trials. The mortals know almost nothing about the trials other than the terrifying fact that usually no one survives.
On Augustine’s Night, the Elvin — the immortal beings who oversee the trials — arrive at the governor’s house, and out of everyone there, they choose Lirah.
From there, the story is packed with so many tropes I love:
* dangerous trials
* enemies to lovers
* found family
* hidden secrets and mysterious powers
As the trials progress, little clues begin to unravel the mystery of who Lirah truly is. With the friends she makes along the way, she’s determined to survive long enough to make it to the Rite — the ceremony that transforms mortals into immortal Elvin.
But what Lirah uncovers about the true purpose behind the Mortal Trials changes everything she thought she knew.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but wow — the final portion of this book was incredibly well done. Watching all the pieces fall into place so perfectly made this such a satisfying read. The reveals genuinely caught me off guard, and I immediately wanted book two the second I finished.
If you enjoy deadly trials, high stakes, romance, found family, and twists that completely reframe the story, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a read!!!
Thank you to Netgalley for an Arc copy of The Mortal Trials!
This book was such a fun read, and the last 20% absolutely blew my mind. I will be grabbing book 2 asap!!
The story follows Lirah, a girl who mysteriously appeared on the doorstep of a mortal governor’s house as a baby and was taken in by one of the kitchen workers. Every decade, thirteen mortals from each island of Tarlor are chosen for the infamous Mortal Trials. The mortals know almost nothing about the trials other than the terrifying fact that usually no one survives.
On Augustine’s Night, the Elvin — the immortal beings who oversee the trials — arrive at the governor’s house, and out of everyone there, they choose Lirah.
From there, the story is packed with so many tropes I love:
* dangerous trials
* enemies to lovers
* found family
* hidden secrets and mysterious powers
As the trials progress, little clues begin to unravel the mystery of who Lirah truly is. With the friends she makes along the way, she’s determined to survive long enough to make it to the Rite — the ceremony that transforms mortals into immortal Elvin.
But what Lirah uncovers about the true purpose behind the Mortal Trials changes everything she thought she knew.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but wow — the final portion of this book was incredibly well done. Watching all the pieces fall into place so perfectly made this such a satisfying read. The reveals genuinely caught me off guard, and I immediately wanted book two the second I finished.
If you enjoy deadly trials, high stakes, romance, found family, and twists that completely reframe the story, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a read!!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a debut! Megan Shunmugam drops us into a world where mortals are thrust into high-stakes trials within the elven realm, and honestly? I was hooked from the start.
Lirah is the kind of FMC I can get behind...determined, fierce, and stubborn to a fault. (Truly, girl, sometimes I wanted to shake her a little, but I also respected it.) The found family she builds with the other mortals was one of my favorite parts of this book, and Lana? Absolute ride-or-die bestie material. I want her in my corner always.
The sprites were a fun and unique addition to the world, though I wish they'd had a bigger presence in the story, there's so much potential there. And Kilian... broody MMC fully delivered. The romance didn't fall into insta-love territory, which I appreciated, but it still moved a little fast for my taste. Slow burn girlies, we keep waiting.
The pacing, though, chef's kiss. I kept telling myself "just one more chapter" and then suddenly it was 2am. The twists genuinely caught me off guard, which is always a win. My only gripe is that a few threads felt unfinished (Aaron, I'm looking directly at you), but I'm choosing to believe the next book will deliver the answers I need.
For a debut, this world has serious bones. I'll absolutely be continuing the series.
Lirah is the kind of FMC I can get behind...determined, fierce, and stubborn to a fault. (Truly, girl, sometimes I wanted to shake her a little, but I also respected it.) The found family she builds with the other mortals was one of my favorite parts of this book, and Lana? Absolute ride-or-die bestie material. I want her in my corner always.
The sprites were a fun and unique addition to the world, though I wish they'd had a bigger presence in the story, there's so much potential there. And Kilian... broody MMC fully delivered. The romance didn't fall into insta-love territory, which I appreciated, but it still moved a little fast for my taste. Slow burn girlies, we keep waiting.
The pacing, though, chef's kiss. I kept telling myself "just one more chapter" and then suddenly it was 2am. The twists genuinely caught me off guard, which is always a win. My only gripe is that a few threads felt unfinished (Aaron, I'm looking directly at you), but I'm choosing to believe the next book will deliver the answers I need.
For a debut, this world has serious bones. I'll absolutely be continuing the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I could not stop reading this book!
The world-building was drip-fed throughout the book, not so full-on and heavy at the start, and I loved this so much. It meant I could get stuck into the action straight away, and this book is non-stop action!
The female friendships in this book warmed my heart. There is tragedy, love, loss and longing, and I ate up every morsel! Just incredible!
I felt connected with all the characters from the start, and the trials were fantastic. I love a trial book and would have loved longer trial chapters, but that's just because I was enjoying them so much!
I cannot wait to read book 2, and I will be regularly checking for release dates!
Quotes that made me love the book, and I hope they make it to the final proof!
"Compete for your lives but make it fashionable?"..."I can't understand the elven"
"I would just have to save my godsdamned self"
"The paperweights scattered across the ground. I hoped he stepped barefoot on one of them"
"The challenges could break my body, they would not take my humanity."
"If I ever want lessons on being a fucking prick, you're the first person I'll come to, don't worry"
"I developed a defence mechanism crafted solely of spite, sarcasm and sass"
"Did I ever tell you how fucking invasive this link is? I can't even think about sucking you off in peace"
"Then you'd be dead. And for some reason I still can't comprehend, I'd be sad about it"
The world-building was drip-fed throughout the book, not so full-on and heavy at the start, and I loved this so much. It meant I could get stuck into the action straight away, and this book is non-stop action!
The female friendships in this book warmed my heart. There is tragedy, love, loss and longing, and I ate up every morsel! Just incredible!
I felt connected with all the characters from the start, and the trials were fantastic. I love a trial book and would have loved longer trial chapters, but that's just because I was enjoying them so much!
I cannot wait to read book 2, and I will be regularly checking for release dates!
Quotes that made me love the book, and I hope they make it to the final proof!
"Compete for your lives but make it fashionable?"..."I can't understand the elven"
"I would just have to save my godsdamned self"
"The paperweights scattered across the ground. I hoped he stepped barefoot on one of them"
"The challenges could break my body, they would not take my humanity."
"If I ever want lessons on being a fucking prick, you're the first person I'll come to, don't worry"
"I developed a defence mechanism crafted solely of spite, sarcasm and sass"
"Did I ever tell you how fucking invasive this link is? I can't even think about sucking you off in peace"
"Then you'd be dead. And for some reason I still can't comprehend, I'd be sad about it"
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I was sold on The Mortal Trials from the jump, deadly competition, high stakes, and a fight for survival that actually feels like it matters.
The trials kept things moving, but I’ll be honest… they didn’t hit as hard or as terrifying as they could have. I wanted a little more “oh shit” and a little less “okay, we’ll survive this.” That said, the bigger story this is building into? That’s where things start to get really interesting, and I’m absolutely here for it.
Lirah and Kilian’s dynamic did a lot of the heavy lifting for me. Strong FMC, broody, morally gray mentor, and that slow burn tension underneath it all… it works.
Some of the tropes felt familiar, and I would have loved more depth in the worldbuilding and emotional buildup early on. It took a minute to fully settle in.
But once it finds its footing, it really takes off. The second half had me hooked, and I wasn’t ready to be done.
Overall, a solid romantasy debut with a strong foundation and just enough bite to keep me invested. I’ll definitely be continuing the series.
I was sold on The Mortal Trials from the jump, deadly competition, high stakes, and a fight for survival that actually feels like it matters.
The trials kept things moving, but I’ll be honest… they didn’t hit as hard or as terrifying as they could have. I wanted a little more “oh shit” and a little less “okay, we’ll survive this.” That said, the bigger story this is building into? That’s where things start to get really interesting, and I’m absolutely here for it.
Lirah and Kilian’s dynamic did a lot of the heavy lifting for me. Strong FMC, broody, morally gray mentor, and that slow burn tension underneath it all… it works.
Some of the tropes felt familiar, and I would have loved more depth in the worldbuilding and emotional buildup early on. It took a minute to fully settle in.
But once it finds its footing, it really takes off. The second half had me hooked, and I wasn’t ready to be done.
Overall, a solid romantasy debut with a strong foundation and just enough bite to keep me invested. I’ll definitely be continuing the series.
May 28, 2026
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book releasing in July 2026.
Overall a fun time, good pacing. Great FMC character, lots of fight and sass. If you like a good romantasy with trials and challenges - this is it. The only downside for me was I found the MMC and the chemistry kind of awkward at times (for lack of a better way of saying it) - I didn’t connect with them. I found it a little stilted. Still a good stubborn, grumpy protective MMC though, he has all the criteria.
Every decade, the Elven go into the human/mortal world and take 13 humans back to their kingdom to compete in the mortal trials. If you make it through - you can win immortality. But winners are extremely rare. Lirah was unfortunately taken as a competitor in a case of mistaken identity - but now she has no choice but to fight to survive. And who better to help her than the elven hosting the trials in his kingdom and who also was a part of taking her - Kilian. So whether through spite or hope, Lirah continues to push and fight - but will it be enough to see her the victor where so many else have failed?
Overall a fun time, good pacing. Great FMC character, lots of fight and sass. If you like a good romantasy with trials and challenges - this is it. The only downside for me was I found the MMC and the chemistry kind of awkward at times (for lack of a better way of saying it) - I didn’t connect with them. I found it a little stilted. Still a good stubborn, grumpy protective MMC though, he has all the criteria.
Every decade, the Elven go into the human/mortal world and take 13 humans back to their kingdom to compete in the mortal trials. If you make it through - you can win immortality. But winners are extremely rare. Lirah was unfortunately taken as a competitor in a case of mistaken identity - but now she has no choice but to fight to survive. And who better to help her than the elven hosting the trials in his kingdom and who also was a part of taking her - Kilian. So whether through spite or hope, Lirah continues to push and fight - but will it be enough to see her the victor where so many else have failed?
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for this Advanced Copy!
The Mortal Trials by Megan Shunmugam is an elves x mortal fantasy adventure which features combat trials, political competition between races, and found family. Our female protagonist, Lira, is a mortal who finds herself unwillingly involved in the Mortal Trials: a series of deadly tasks which occur every decade in which a human can ultimately achieve immortal status by turning into an elf. Her elven instructor Kilian is a powerful elf who has had a cursed placed on him, and is searching for a mortal who can help him break the curse.
While I did enjoy reading this book, the character development seemed flat, and I felt that the mortal characters transitioned from hating their elven instructors to be infatuated with them fairly quickly. The banter seemed to fall a bit short, becoming borderline ridiculous when you realize it's between a supposedly disposable mortal and her immortal kidnapper.
Overall, it was a nice, easy read.
The Mortal Trials by Megan Shunmugam is an elves x mortal fantasy adventure which features combat trials, political competition between races, and found family. Our female protagonist, Lira, is a mortal who finds herself unwillingly involved in the Mortal Trials: a series of deadly tasks which occur every decade in which a human can ultimately achieve immortal status by turning into an elf. Her elven instructor Kilian is a powerful elf who has had a cursed placed on him, and is searching for a mortal who can help him break the curse.
While I did enjoy reading this book, the character development seemed flat, and I felt that the mortal characters transitioned from hating their elven instructors to be infatuated with them fairly quickly. The banter seemed to fall a bit short, becoming borderline ridiculous when you realize it's between a supposedly disposable mortal and her immortal kidnapper.
Overall, it was a nice, easy read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for my ARC of The Mortal Trials!
This book had an intriguing plot, especially because I'm a sucker for trials and a good trainer/trainee trope, but it sadly it didn’t hook me. I found myself wishing for more descriptive text, both in terms of the characters and the settings, as it was difficult to visualize the world and scenes.
I felt that there was too much action too quickly, which may work for some readers, but I personally needed more time to become invested in the characters. Overall, I struggled to feel emotionally connected to the characters and their journeys. Similarly, the chemistry of the central relationship didn’t quite land, so it was hard to stay engaged. The writing style felt fairly simple, which may appeal to readers looking for something more straightforward, but I enjoy more description and complexity.
Overall, this one didn’t fully resonate with me, but readers who enjoy fast-paced fantasy with a lighter writing style may still enjoy it.
This book had an intriguing plot, especially because I'm a sucker for trials and a good trainer/trainee trope, but it sadly it didn’t hook me. I found myself wishing for more descriptive text, both in terms of the characters and the settings, as it was difficult to visualize the world and scenes.
I felt that there was too much action too quickly, which may work for some readers, but I personally needed more time to become invested in the characters. Overall, I struggled to feel emotionally connected to the characters and their journeys. Similarly, the chemistry of the central relationship didn’t quite land, so it was hard to stay engaged. The writing style felt fairly simple, which may appeal to readers looking for something more straightforward, but I enjoy more description and complexity.
Overall, this one didn’t fully resonate with me, but readers who enjoy fast-paced fantasy with a lighter writing style may still enjoy it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 3.5 rounded up
**ARC Review: thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.**
The story follows a young servant girl who is pulled into deadly trials filled with magic, danger, and political intrigue. The story blends high-stakes fantasy with romance and fast-paced competition elements.
Tropes:
• Deadly trials/competition
• Forced proximity
• Slow burn romance
• Hidden secrets
• Magic training/discovery
• Touch-her-and-die energy
• Underdog heroine
Overall, this was a good story with an interesting premise and enough action to keep me invested. My biggest issue was that the banter often felt juvenile, and I struggled to connect with the characters, especially the FMC, who came across more like a spoiled rebellious teenager than someone raised as a scullery maid. There was definitely something missing with the way the characters were written.
Still, the world and overall plot kept me engaged, And I can see why others are rating it so highly. It just wasn't for me.
**ARC Review: thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.**
The story follows a young servant girl who is pulled into deadly trials filled with magic, danger, and political intrigue. The story blends high-stakes fantasy with romance and fast-paced competition elements.
Tropes:
• Deadly trials/competition
• Forced proximity
• Slow burn romance
• Hidden secrets
• Magic training/discovery
• Touch-her-and-die energy
• Underdog heroine
Overall, this was a good story with an interesting premise and enough action to keep me invested. My biggest issue was that the banter often felt juvenile, and I struggled to connect with the characters, especially the FMC, who came across more like a spoiled rebellious teenager than someone raised as a scullery maid. There was definitely something missing with the way the characters were written.
Still, the world and overall plot kept me engaged, And I can see why others are rating it so highly. It just wasn't for me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I dare you to try and put this one down once you start reading it because, I definitely could not. I read this one in a day and suspect this will very quickly become a popular read this summer.
The world in this book is easy to understand and get immersed into. You have mortals, elves, fae, gods. Shadow daddies and golden retriever sidekicks. Badass FMC and her found family. You have trials and tests that will leave you holding your breath. The ending will leave you wanting to dive right into the next book knowing the game has changed.
The pace of this one is pretty fast so you aren't going to have the long and drawn out tension building or months of planning between trials and tests. I think that is why it is such an easy book to get into and not put down. I really enjoyed this and already anxiously awaiting the next book!
Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC and the opportunity to provide an honest review.
The world in this book is easy to understand and get immersed into. You have mortals, elves, fae, gods. Shadow daddies and golden retriever sidekicks. Badass FMC and her found family. You have trials and tests that will leave you holding your breath. The ending will leave you wanting to dive right into the next book knowing the game has changed.
The pace of this one is pretty fast so you aren't going to have the long and drawn out tension building or months of planning between trials and tests. I think that is why it is such an easy book to get into and not put down. I really enjoyed this and already anxiously awaiting the next book!
Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC and the opportunity to provide an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If I could rate this book higher than 5 stars I absolutely would!
The Mortal Trials follows Lirah, a mortal, who is mistaken for someone else and taken from the only life she’s ever known by the Elven, and forced to compete in the deadly trials.
If you like
- A broody, morally grey MMC
- Enemies to lovers
- Intense yearning
- Forced proximity
- High stakes
- Found family
This is the perfect book for you!
I could not put it down and read it in one sitting, finishing it at 2am! Everything about this book was just so perfect to me, I have no notes - Safe to say, Megan Shunmugam is going onto my instant buy list.
There wasn’t a single part of this book that didn’t leave me shocked, laughing, crying or angry. I got so attached to the characters, I’m going to need a few days to recover!
All that said, this is one of my top books of the year so far!
Thank you Netgalley and AngryRobot Books for the ARC.
All opinions are my own!
The Mortal Trials follows Lirah, a mortal, who is mistaken for someone else and taken from the only life she’s ever known by the Elven, and forced to compete in the deadly trials.
If you like
- A broody, morally grey MMC
- Enemies to lovers
- Intense yearning
- Forced proximity
- High stakes
- Found family
This is the perfect book for you!
I could not put it down and read it in one sitting, finishing it at 2am! Everything about this book was just so perfect to me, I have no notes - Safe to say, Megan Shunmugam is going onto my instant buy list.
There wasn’t a single part of this book that didn’t leave me shocked, laughing, crying or angry. I got so attached to the characters, I’m going to need a few days to recover!
All that said, this is one of my top books of the year so far!
Thank you Netgalley and AngryRobot Books for the ARC.
All opinions are my own!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book had everything I want in a Romantasy, we’re talking super high stakes trials, enemies to lovers, slow burn (for real), forced proximity, forbidden romance, interesting magic and we even get some spice!
I was truly intrigued before I even began and it just got better from there. Following our main characters, Lirah and Killian, we’ve got a tension filled trainer/trainee situation going on and though you know they shouldn’t be together, you really cannot deny their connection. Beyond our intense trials, we’ve also got a missing goddess and some weird things going on with the gods that makes our FMC question her whole existence.
I really could not put this down and just was begging for more. This is how I like my books, fast paced with plenty of twists. I believe this is a duology so you know I can’t wait for the next book!
*Thank you NetGalley for the ARC an exchange for my honest review
I was truly intrigued before I even began and it just got better from there. Following our main characters, Lirah and Killian, we’ve got a tension filled trainer/trainee situation going on and though you know they shouldn’t be together, you really cannot deny their connection. Beyond our intense trials, we’ve also got a missing goddess and some weird things going on with the gods that makes our FMC question her whole existence.
I really could not put this down and just was begging for more. This is how I like my books, fast paced with plenty of twists. I believe this is a duology so you know I can’t wait for the next book!
*Thank you NetGalley for the ARC an exchange for my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this ARC!
I really enjoyed this book!!!it had all the things I love in a story:
-Deadly Trials
-Forced Proximity
-Witty banter
-Broody MMC
I love a book with high stakes trials and am obsessed with the trainer/trainee trope. This book was fast paced and had plenty of action in it which I do enjoy in a book!
I did not see the twist of them being gods coming, and Lirah sacrificing herself for her friends was heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time!
My only gripe was the timeline: the trials taking place over a matter of weeks and both Lirah and Lana falling in love with Kilian and Septimus just seemed a bit rushed for me, I would have preferred it if it had happened over a few months.
Overall I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading what happens next!
I really enjoyed this book!!!it had all the things I love in a story:
-Deadly Trials
-Forced Proximity
-Witty banter
-Broody MMC
I love a book with high stakes trials and am obsessed with the trainer/trainee trope. This book was fast paced and had plenty of action in it which I do enjoy in a book!
I did not see the twist of them being gods coming, and Lirah sacrificing herself for her friends was heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time!
My only gripe was the timeline: the trials taking place over a matter of weeks and both Lirah and Lana falling in love with Kilian and Septimus just seemed a bit rushed for me, I would have preferred it if it had happened over a few months.
Overall I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading what happens next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you for a copy of this story to read and review.
An addictive romantasy which had me sacrificing sleep to say in this world with high-stakes, life or death trials and entrancing romance.
When I read the description stating it was perfect for fans of Rose in Chain, which was my most recent favourite read I knew I had to read it. And let me tell you it did not disappoint. From the start I was invested. I never wanted to put it down.
When Lirah is misrecognised and into a bunch of deadly trials. From the get go, her life is threatened just to try and survive being in the place before the trials even begin. Then add in the enemies lovers, trainer/trainee forbidden slow burn to die for romance. Add in some magic, and amazing world building which was easy to follow and utterly imersive.
An addictive romantasy which had me sacrificing sleep to say in this world with high-stakes, life or death trials and entrancing romance.
When I read the description stating it was perfect for fans of Rose in Chain, which was my most recent favourite read I knew I had to read it. And let me tell you it did not disappoint. From the start I was invested. I never wanted to put it down.
When Lirah is misrecognised and into a bunch of deadly trials. From the get go, her life is threatened just to try and survive being in the place before the trials even begin. Then add in the enemies lovers, trainer/trainee forbidden slow burn to die for romance. Add in some magic, and amazing world building which was easy to follow and utterly imersive.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In The Mortal Trials, we follow Lirah, who is taken from her home against her will to compete in elven trials to become elven herself. In the process, she meets her instructor Killian, whom she can't stay away from, and friends who'll save her life more than once.
This one was difficult to rate. While it certainly isn't a bad book (in fact, I really really like the writing, it's great!), it also wasn't super good. I think the extremely quick escalation at the ending threw me off. Also, it feels like the protagonist and her bestie were too powerful. Not quite balanced I guess. I wasn't as invested in the trials because the outcome was too obvious.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for a review. #TheMortalTrials #NetGalley
This one was difficult to rate. While it certainly isn't a bad book (in fact, I really really like the writing, it's great!), it also wasn't super good. I think the extremely quick escalation at the ending threw me off. Also, it feels like the protagonist and her bestie were too powerful. Not quite balanced I guess. I wasn't as invested in the trials because the outcome was too obvious.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for a review. #TheMortalTrials #NetGalley
April 29, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from NetGalley.
‘He was made of darkness and starlight, pure energy and raw power. And he was mine.’
I absolute devoured this book, I could not get enough. I was drawn into the story right away. This book was perfect. It left me wanting more, wanting it to be longer so I didn’t have to saw goodbye to the characters.
The friendships were beautiful. The banter was top notch. Enemies to lovers. Curses. This book has everything. And the twist, don’t even get me started. I did not see that coming, my jaw was on the floor!
I loved the link and the pull the characters have to each other. I loved her darkness. This book was such a treat.
There must be a second book coming with that ending. I need that second book, I need more.
‘He was made of darkness and starlight, pure energy and raw power. And he was mine.’
I absolute devoured this book, I could not get enough. I was drawn into the story right away. This book was perfect. It left me wanting more, wanting it to be longer so I didn’t have to saw goodbye to the characters.
The friendships were beautiful. The banter was top notch. Enemies to lovers. Curses. This book has everything. And the twist, don’t even get me started. I did not see that coming, my jaw was on the floor!
I loved the link and the pull the characters have to each other. I loved her darkness. This book was such a treat.
There must be a second book coming with that ending. I need that second book, I need more.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Seriously, netgallery is on fire with these amazing ARCS this year. Thanks so much for this and granting my wish.
This book was everything. Fantastic fast paced writing. Perfectly writen trials and lots of tension. This has all the tropes we love in romantasy, slow burn, forced proximity. High stakes, mortals, immortality and the character depth was writen perfectly. Very excited for the next book.
Highly recommend to the romantasy readers who enjoy high stakes and tension. Also that ending was 🔥
This book was everything. Fantastic fast paced writing. Perfectly writen trials and lots of tension. This has all the tropes we love in romantasy, slow burn, forced proximity. High stakes, mortals, immortality and the character depth was writen perfectly. Very excited for the next book.
Highly recommend to the romantasy readers who enjoy high stakes and tension. Also that ending was 🔥
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
WOW Buckle up and enjoy the ride. This book is SO good is a mantra that was repeated to myself throughout. The author grips hold of you from page one and does not let go.
With a gritty, epic feel, familiar tropes are present with enough twists and turns to make the journey anything but predictable. The Romance element is fire and the life or death stakes are very high, making you feel connected as a reader not only to Lirahna our sassy fmc but also equally as invested in what happens to the side characters too. I need the second book NOW!
ARC Received from NETGALLEY for early review
With a gritty, epic feel, familiar tropes are present with enough twists and turns to make the journey anything but predictable. The Romance element is fire and the life or death stakes are very high, making you feel connected as a reader not only to Lirahna our sassy fmc but also equally as invested in what happens to the side characters too. I need the second book NOW!
ARC Received from NETGALLEY for early review
Review of advance copy received from Author
Had the chance to read this in advance and I couldn't have been happier! The whole world the story takes place in is so inspiring and magical, but doesn't miss on being dark and mysterious as well. Loved how the stakes felt real every step of the story and you really care about the characters (especially the romance >:)) Awesome plotwists as well, didn't see anything coming, I was basically blind. Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book was so good I finished it over the course of one weekend. Although the themes in the book are nothing unique (trials, other beings/mortals, trials, shadows, etc) I thought it was written in a captivating way that kept me hooked from the very beginning.
I do think the romance between the FMC and MMC was rather quick, I felt like it had the tension and slow burn feel that made it super enjoyable to read.
I do think the romance between the FMC and MMC was rather quick, I felt like it had the tension and slow burn feel that made it super enjoyable to read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoyed the world this story is set in. I feel like the Mortal Trials has a really good base, and the elven in the story were very compelling for their needs. I do feel like a little more could have been explained in the people nearby, but it was fine. The love progression between the two main characters felt a little zero to 100, but it is a single POV story, so that is allowable. I am super excited to see the next book come out. The cliffhanger was so mean!!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley for this arc
I absolutely devoured this book it has everything you want
Deadly trials
A chance at immortality
Secrets and twists
A feisty FMC
Elven
Gods
Every decade 13 mortals are chosen to compete in the mortal trials a series of gruelling and deadly trials for the chance at immortality or is that the only reason the elven are making them compete…..
Absolutely brilliant book that was gripping and well written
I absolutely devoured this book it has everything you want
Deadly trials
A chance at immortality
Secrets and twists
A feisty FMC
Elven
Gods
Every decade 13 mortals are chosen to compete in the mortal trials a series of gruelling and deadly trials for the chance at immortality or is that the only reason the elven are making them compete…..
Absolutely brilliant book that was gripping and well written
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews