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The Trials of Aqouril
Sixteen-year-old Erica Brooks longs for adventure, acceptance, and answers—especially about the mysterious power she keeps hidden, even from herself.
When she is suddenly transported to the enthralling world of Aqouril, Erica discovers an extraordinary ability to control water—an ancient power that marks her for something far greater than she ever imagined.
To master her gift and uncover the secrets of Aqouril, Erica must face a series of harrowing trials that test her courage, strain her friendships, and push her to her limits.
Gripping, heartfelt, and brimming with magic, The Trials of Aqouril is a spellbinding journey of bravery, transformation, and self-discovery.
When she is suddenly transported to the enthralling world of Aqouril, Erica discovers an extraordinary ability to control water—an ancient power that marks her for something far greater than she ever imagined.
To master her gift and uncover the secrets of Aqouril, Erica must face a series of harrowing trials that test her courage, strain her friendships, and push her to her limits.
Gripping, heartfelt, and brimming with magic, The Trials of Aqouril is a spellbinding journey of bravery, transformation, and self-discovery.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 28, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
November 21, 2025
This!!! Oh wow, what an incredible debut and hopefully an incredible start to what I feel would make an EXCELLENT series! This book gave me all sorts of feels! I loved the story. I couldn't put this down at all. The cover is gorgeous, and I love the various shades of blue. They pop right off! The writing is excellent and flows so well. It's definitely more than appropriate for the young adults of the world. I really enjoyed the world-building, and E.S. did this with such excellent execution. Aquoril sounds breathtaking! The characters were so good and each had their own stories that can be told, I think. Erica was great. She was so versatile and adaptable. If she doesn't inspire a generation of young adults, then I don't know who will! If you want rich and imaginative read next, then give this a go! You won't be disappointed!
December 23, 2025
While reading this novel I had the wonderful news that my partner is pregnant with a baby girl and the biggest compliment I can pay this book is that a character like Erica Brooks is exactly the type of role model I would love for her to have. Basing the story around her morales and compassion make this a exemplary read for any young adult. For me, I particularly enjoyed the political aspects of the novel and, for future books in the series, I would enjoy the storyline of the AIA being developed further.
Well written and engaging; therefore, I'd highly recommend.
Well written and engaging; therefore, I'd highly recommend.
November 2, 2025
Really enjoyed reading my pre-release copy! Good character development and intriguing story line, already ready for the sequel!
November 22, 2025
What an incredible debut! This felt like playing a cosy fantasy role playing game - gorgeous warm characters, excellent character development, wonderful world building with a really interesting way of connecting the ‘normal’ world to that of Aqouril. Tasks and challenges had great action scenes and I found the world and the magic really easy to understand. It was kept interesting through trials, friendship and relationship challenges and I loved that there was even a therapist character!
The writing is truly excellent and I absolutely could not put it down, always eager to see what happened next. It’s one of the best debut fantasy novels I’ve read in some time and I need the sequel right away!
The writing is truly excellent and I absolutely could not put it down, always eager to see what happened next. It’s one of the best debut fantasy novels I’ve read in some time and I need the sequel right away!
November 24, 2025
Although not the typical genre I would read I really truly enjoyed this book. It is a fantastic page turner with a highly imaginative storyline - it is just waiting for the next installment which I will definitely be reading! I couldn't recommend it highly enough.
January 16, 2026
I thought this book was absolutely brilliant and am really looking forward to the next one in the series!! I can’t recommend this book highly enough, 100% 5⭐️
November 26, 2025
This is a YA adventure/ fantasy.
It follows Erica Brooks, a sixteen year old girl who doesn't quite feel as though she fits in and feels different from the other teenagers. She also has a secret ability that she keeps hidden from everyone.
Whilst camping, Erica is transported to the world of Aqouril, and her adventure begins.
Erica discovers she has the ability to control water and has been selected, along with four others to compete as champions in a series of trials. The winner earns the right to become heir to Orious, grandmaster of Aqouril.
Erica must use a variety of skills to overcome the trials and along the way discovers more about the mysterious world, makes friends and competes in the trials.
I totally flew through this book, the start is a little slow but as soon as Erica is transported to Aqouril, it's action packed.
There is such fantastic world building, it's easy to imagine and become immersed in Aqouril. Erica is a wonderful heroine. She's tough and smart and brave and she has fabulous character development. The other characters are well developed but there are quite a few to keep track of.
The Trials were exciting and the story concluded nicely with lots of potential for more in the series.
It follows Erica Brooks, a sixteen year old girl who doesn't quite feel as though she fits in and feels different from the other teenagers. She also has a secret ability that she keeps hidden from everyone.
Whilst camping, Erica is transported to the world of Aqouril, and her adventure begins.
Erica discovers she has the ability to control water and has been selected, along with four others to compete as champions in a series of trials. The winner earns the right to become heir to Orious, grandmaster of Aqouril.
Erica must use a variety of skills to overcome the trials and along the way discovers more about the mysterious world, makes friends and competes in the trials.
I totally flew through this book, the start is a little slow but as soon as Erica is transported to Aqouril, it's action packed.
There is such fantastic world building, it's easy to imagine and become immersed in Aqouril. Erica is a wonderful heroine. She's tough and smart and brave and she has fabulous character development. The other characters are well developed but there are quite a few to keep track of.
The Trials were exciting and the story concluded nicely with lots of potential for more in the series.
November 21, 2025
The Trials Of Aqouril is a YA fantasy book about 16-year old Erica who gets taken to an alternate world to face several trials to become the next heir. She became aware of some strange power just before coming to this new world and all of a sudden has to use her strength to face each task. She is up against four other young people and alongside competing learns about this new world she has landed in.
Some lovely world building with blue-skinned people and otherworldly creatures, as well as many nlikeable characters. The book is well written and very accessible, new concepts explained well so that you can quite easily follow what’s going on.
I did unfortunately find reading this quite slow. I also would have liked a bit more character development and introspection; Erica seems to go from not wanting to be there to fighting to win all the trials and stay in Aqouril very quickly for example. I think this is a story that I can see working really well for younger teens. They might well get completely immersed in Erica‘s story and this world.
Nevertheless, this might all be a me or a timing problem. There is really a lot going for this book and it’s well worth picking up!
Some lovely world building with blue-skinned people and otherworldly creatures, as well as many nlikeable characters. The book is well written and very accessible, new concepts explained well so that you can quite easily follow what’s going on.
I did unfortunately find reading this quite slow. I also would have liked a bit more character development and introspection; Erica seems to go from not wanting to be there to fighting to win all the trials and stay in Aqouril very quickly for example. I think this is a story that I can see working really well for younger teens. They might well get completely immersed in Erica‘s story and this world.
Nevertheless, this might all be a me or a timing problem. There is really a lot going for this book and it’s well worth picking up!
December 1, 2025
Personally after a slow start it was a real page turner, I was sucked into the world of Aqouril full of adventure. I really enjoyed reading this book & it was easy to follow along, well paced & loved the characters. It's well written & I could imagine it easily. I can't wait to follow on to the sequel, with it being a YA fantasy after telling my 12 year old who loves a good book he's next in line to read it! ✨
I am so grateful when E.S David reached out & asked if I would like to read his debut novel. After a description of the storyline it sounded something I would enjoy! 😊
I am so grateful when E.S David reached out & asked if I would like to read his debut novel. After a description of the storyline it sounded something I would enjoy! 😊
December 8, 2025
Excellent book - easy read and great worldbuilding. Excited for the next one!
January 22, 2026
Although this is not a genre I would normally choose, I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. it has broadened my mind to exploring similar books. the story features well executed twists and I'm already thinking ahead to what might unfold in book 2.
December 2, 2025
What a fun read!
This is a genre I wouldn’t typically pick up, it is a YA fantasy but really - a great adventure book!
It is a little slow in the beginning when you’re in the human world, with a couple of scenes that maybe weren’t needed. I was immediately intrigued by the indication that our fmc has some form of undiscovered power. But, once Erica gets dragged through the lake to the world of Aqouril, the story really picks up and is a really enjoyable read.
The trials are interesting and unique, and the ranking gave it that competitive and slightly higher stakes feel. You always felt unsure of who was to be trusted.
The cast of characters is great. Our fmc is brave, strong and really curious about her new environment, but also flawed and unsure at times (we love a balanced character). Each of the other characters had something to add to the story and all had their individual quirks, and backstories that I hope we learn more about in future books (?). I’m super intrigued about Isaac!
Overall, the plot was well rounded and it was a really enjoyable read and set up nicely for future books as a continuation of the series.
This is a genre I wouldn’t typically pick up, it is a YA fantasy but really - a great adventure book!
It is a little slow in the beginning when you’re in the human world, with a couple of scenes that maybe weren’t needed. I was immediately intrigued by the indication that our fmc has some form of undiscovered power. But, once Erica gets dragged through the lake to the world of Aqouril, the story really picks up and is a really enjoyable read.
The trials are interesting and unique, and the ranking gave it that competitive and slightly higher stakes feel. You always felt unsure of who was to be trusted.
The cast of characters is great. Our fmc is brave, strong and really curious about her new environment, but also flawed and unsure at times (we love a balanced character). Each of the other characters had something to add to the story and all had their individual quirks, and backstories that I hope we learn more about in future books (?). I’m super intrigued about Isaac!
Overall, the plot was well rounded and it was a really enjoyable read and set up nicely for future books as a continuation of the series.
February 6, 2026
At first I got slight Buffy vibes followed by Harry Potter and then it truly came into it's own. I thoroughly enjoyed this mystical and magical YA read.
16 year old Erica is one day suddenly transported to the world of Aqouril, where she learns she has the ability to control water... and will be taking part in trials that will change her in ways she'd never expect.
I love how everything is so ordinary at first before Erica is thrown into the new world. It really felt like we went on the journey with her from Earth to wait where are we? who are these? what about her family?
I adored Tristan and Fowlin. I wasn't sure about Erica at first but I love how she comes into her own and it's beautiful and inspiring to see the transformation.
The Trials themselves were a lot of fun, and clever! I don't want to give anything away but there are a couple bits nearer the end that I feel were such fabulous additions that would really show your character. In a lot of books and films it tends to be about strength and bravery alone but it was great to see a book showing the importance of your own character/values.
Amazing debut fantasy and I'm excited to see where book two takes us.
16 year old Erica is one day suddenly transported to the world of Aqouril, where she learns she has the ability to control water... and will be taking part in trials that will change her in ways she'd never expect.
I love how everything is so ordinary at first before Erica is thrown into the new world. It really felt like we went on the journey with her from Earth to wait where are we? who are these? what about her family?
I adored Tristan and Fowlin. I wasn't sure about Erica at first but I love how she comes into her own and it's beautiful and inspiring to see the transformation.
The Trials themselves were a lot of fun, and clever! I don't want to give anything away but there are a couple bits nearer the end that I feel were such fabulous additions that would really show your character. In a lot of books and films it tends to be about strength and bravery alone but it was great to see a book showing the importance of your own character/values.
Amazing debut fantasy and I'm excited to see where book two takes us.
November 6, 2025
Erica Brooks nunca imaginó que su vida en un tranquilo suburbio de Indiana cambiaría después de una simple fiesta de cumpleaños. Lo que comenzó como una noche cualquiera terminó con un encuentro imposible: el agua del estanque del jardín pareció responder a su toque. Desde ese instante, todo lo que creía conocer se desmorona. Su mejor amiga Megan empieza a actuar de forma extraña, su consejero escolar parece ocultar secretos y, poco a poco, Erica descubre que posee habilidades vinculadas a un antiguo poder ancestral. Sin saber en quién confiar, se ve arrastrada a un mundo oculto bajo la superficie del suyo, donde la magia, la lealtad y la traición van de la mano. Para sobrevivir, deberá aceptar quién es realmente… antes de que el agua la reclame por completo.
__
Espero que M y B aparezcan en el siguiente libro y se desarrolle su historia,
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
July 3, 2026
I really enjoyed the world of Aqouril and the political and social tensions that were weaved throughout. I thought that it captured the awkward stage of life being a teenager is and it was written to that age group.
I thought the magic system was interesting, but I would have liked to learn more about how the magic worked.
As a main character Erica reacts extremely calmly to being dropped into a new world and having to compete in magical trials. I thought her struggles with social situations and being unsure how to handle some of the conversations was written well and will be relatable to so many young readers.
I really enjoyed the ending and the epilogue planted interesting seeds for the rest of the series.
I want to thank E. S. David for sending me a copy of the Trials of Aqouril to review. This is my honest review of the book.
I thought the magic system was interesting, but I would have liked to learn more about how the magic worked.
As a main character Erica reacts extremely calmly to being dropped into a new world and having to compete in magical trials. I thought her struggles with social situations and being unsure how to handle some of the conversations was written well and will be relatable to so many young readers.
I really enjoyed the ending and the epilogue planted interesting seeds for the rest of the series.
I want to thank E. S. David for sending me a copy of the Trials of Aqouril to review. This is my honest review of the book.
January 20, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. The story follows Erica Brookes, who is unexpectedly transported into a fantasy world where she discovers she has the ability to control water. Alongside other competitors, Erica must face a series of trials to determine who will become heir to the throne.
The characters are believable and relatable, with strong development that makes you care about their fates. The plot is tense and engaging, with plenty of exciting moments that keep the story moving. Overall, this is an enjoyable and immersive fantasy read that I would happily recommend.
The characters are believable and relatable, with strong development that makes you care about their fates. The plot is tense and engaging, with plenty of exciting moments that keep the story moving. Overall, this is an enjoyable and immersive fantasy read that I would happily recommend.
December 31, 2025
Courtesy of NetGalley I received this book.
Overall good baseline and start.
Definitely recommend for the younger crowd.
I had to work hard to keep my attention in this story. Some characters were likable while others you were hoping would fail.
I enjoyed the idea of the story
Most reactions seem real and reasonable. I just couldn’t connect to the story.
If you’re into YA fantasy where the FMC starts growing and learning about her self. Then this is the book for you.
Overall good baseline and start.
Definitely recommend for the younger crowd.
I had to work hard to keep my attention in this story. Some characters were likable while others you were hoping would fail.
I enjoyed the idea of the story
Most reactions seem real and reasonable. I just couldn’t connect to the story.
If you’re into YA fantasy where the FMC starts growing and learning about her self. Then this is the book for you.
April 19, 2026
Thank you so much @esdavidauthor for sending me a copy on NetGalley. I really enjoyed this intriguing fantasy adventure and loved being transported to a new world.
Erica is a normal 16 year old working her way through school getting ready for the next step in her education. That is until one evening she experiences a strange power which materialises in the water, it’s like she is controlling the water.
After going on a trip with her best friend who seems to be keeping a secret, Erica ends up sucked into a new world where she must compete with others in a series of trials to become the new heir and master her new powers.
This was such an entertaining YA fantasy, it had a little bit of everything and who doesn’t love a story involving magic, trials and a new world to get to know.
I found it a little slow burn at the beginning but I didn’t mind as once Erica travelled to Aqouril I was hooked on this new adventure. I loved the world building, I really felt like I was there with the characters and the author really encapsulated what this new world was like in the story. It’s well plotted and easy to read.
Plenty of characters to get to know and love. Favourite characters have got to be Erica, Tristan and Mr Sato, I was rooting for Erica from the beginning and certainly didn’t trust Aiden. Erica really grew as a character throughout the book. She seemed more self assured and more confident in herself which I really liked. She was a likeable character always polite and trying to get on with everyone.
I really enjoyed this YA adventure and would definitely pick up the second, I look forward to seeing how the story develops especially Erica and her magic.
Erica is a normal 16 year old working her way through school getting ready for the next step in her education. That is until one evening she experiences a strange power which materialises in the water, it’s like she is controlling the water.
After going on a trip with her best friend who seems to be keeping a secret, Erica ends up sucked into a new world where she must compete with others in a series of trials to become the new heir and master her new powers.
This was such an entertaining YA fantasy, it had a little bit of everything and who doesn’t love a story involving magic, trials and a new world to get to know.
I found it a little slow burn at the beginning but I didn’t mind as once Erica travelled to Aqouril I was hooked on this new adventure. I loved the world building, I really felt like I was there with the characters and the author really encapsulated what this new world was like in the story. It’s well plotted and easy to read.
Plenty of characters to get to know and love. Favourite characters have got to be Erica, Tristan and Mr Sato, I was rooting for Erica from the beginning and certainly didn’t trust Aiden. Erica really grew as a character throughout the book. She seemed more self assured and more confident in herself which I really liked. She was a likeable character always polite and trying to get on with everyone.
I really enjoyed this YA adventure and would definitely pick up the second, I look forward to seeing how the story develops especially Erica and her magic.
January 23, 2026
I loved the concept of this! I’m a sucker for a story that involves the elements. I think the world is creative and the conflicts are well-considered. Overall, I had some problems with the pacing and character depth. I didn’t understand Erica very much and her competitors fell flat to me. I didn’t really buy into their relationships.
November 23, 2025
💙 Blurb-
Sixteen-year-old Erica Brooks longs for adventure, acceptance, and answers—especially about the mysterious power she keeps hidden, even from herself.
When she is suddenly transported to the enthralling world of Aqouril, Erica discovers an extraordinary ability to control water—an ancient power that marks her for something far greater than she ever imagined.
To master her gift and uncover the secrets of Aqouril, Erica must face a series of harrowing trials that test her courage, strain her friendships, and push her to her limits.
Gripping, heartfelt, and brimming with magic, The Trials of Aqouril is a spellbinding journey of bravery, transformation, and self-discovery.
💜 Review -
This was such a brilliant page turner. From the very first page I was drawn into the story. The story was so full of content and adventure, that sometimes I forgot that I was reading and I felt like I was on an adventure with Erica and her friends. The story was fun and easy to follow, well written, had good pacing and a great cast of characters. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to the author, E.S David and the publisher, The Book Guild for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Sixteen-year-old Erica Brooks longs for adventure, acceptance, and answers—especially about the mysterious power she keeps hidden, even from herself.
When she is suddenly transported to the enthralling world of Aqouril, Erica discovers an extraordinary ability to control water—an ancient power that marks her for something far greater than she ever imagined.
To master her gift and uncover the secrets of Aqouril, Erica must face a series of harrowing trials that test her courage, strain her friendships, and push her to her limits.
Gripping, heartfelt, and brimming with magic, The Trials of Aqouril is a spellbinding journey of bravery, transformation, and self-discovery.
💜 Review -
This was such a brilliant page turner. From the very first page I was drawn into the story. The story was so full of content and adventure, that sometimes I forgot that I was reading and I felt like I was on an adventure with Erica and her friends. The story was fun and easy to follow, well written, had good pacing and a great cast of characters. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to the author, E.S David and the publisher, The Book Guild for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews