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Trial of the Gods
"There were 181 days left until I was scheduled to die"
The gods are back.
And they are pissed.
When three kings locked away the deities of Ancient Greece, no one expected they would ever return. Yet they did, and now Zoe suffers the consequences.
As someone born to one lineage of the rebellious three kings, Zoe has been labelled as redress since she was born.
"The Penance" is a sacrificial ritual occurring every ten years, where those of the damned bloodlines are offered up to settle Zeus's wrath. Except this decade, the gods have changed their minds. A pyre-burning ritual is no longer what they desire. Instead, a private trial. Which means Zoe now has the chance to fight for something she's never considered... A future.
Zoe has spent her whole life shutting out the possibility of caring for anyone but her and her brother. But as the trial commences, she is forced to form allegiances. Navigating her way through a complicated romance, challenging friendships, and potential enemies, Zoe has one more problem to the mysterious trial monitor, Alec. He goes out of his way to help Zoe, even though he was the one who put her there in the first place. Through a series of slow revelations, Zoe starts to realize that her story is destined to travel a very unique path.
The gods are back.
And they are pissed.
When three kings locked away the deities of Ancient Greece, no one expected they would ever return. Yet they did, and now Zoe suffers the consequences.
As someone born to one lineage of the rebellious three kings, Zoe has been labelled as redress since she was born.
"The Penance" is a sacrificial ritual occurring every ten years, where those of the damned bloodlines are offered up to settle Zeus's wrath. Except this decade, the gods have changed their minds. A pyre-burning ritual is no longer what they desire. Instead, a private trial. Which means Zoe now has the chance to fight for something she's never considered... A future.
Zoe has spent her whole life shutting out the possibility of caring for anyone but her and her brother. But as the trial commences, she is forced to form allegiances. Navigating her way through a complicated romance, challenging friendships, and potential enemies, Zoe has one more problem to the mysterious trial monitor, Alec. He goes out of his way to help Zoe, even though he was the one who put her there in the first place. Through a series of slow revelations, Zoe starts to realize that her story is destined to travel a very unique path.
546 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2025
2 people are currently reading
38 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 19, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It kept a good pace right from the beginning. The second POV was absolutely not who I expected and the ending was heartbreaking! Lots of twists and turns with trials that leave you on edge. This is one you should definitely read!
*received an ARC
*received an ARC
November 27, 2025
"Surrender did not bring serenity. Surrender brought death." 🛡
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Storygraph will tell you it took me 5 days to read this book, but that's a lie. I started this book one day and then got distracted, but when I picked it back up I read the remaining 97% in one sitting. I was hooked by Chapter 3. The plot is fast paced and the trials were so interesting. Zoe's inner monologue kept it so real. You can feel her defeat, acceptance, rage, and grief. While the book dicussed the greek gods, the story actually explored the other characters in greek mythology more, which was a refreshing take. I love the found family trope. The story seems to set Alec up as the love interest for future books, but I was honestly more attached to the Tyler - Zoe - Sean friendship.
That ending destroyed me, so did I finish this book or did it finish me?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Storygraph will tell you it took me 5 days to read this book, but that's a lie. I started this book one day and then got distracted, but when I picked it back up I read the remaining 97% in one sitting. I was hooked by Chapter 3. The plot is fast paced and the trials were so interesting. Zoe's inner monologue kept it so real. You can feel her defeat, acceptance, rage, and grief. While the book dicussed the greek gods, the story actually explored the other characters in greek mythology more, which was a refreshing take. I love the found family trope. The story seems to set Alec up as the love interest for future books, but I was honestly more attached to the Tyler - Zoe - Sean friendship.
That ending destroyed me, so did I finish this book or did it finish me?
November 22, 2025
ARC review
.
I read this in one sitting because I couldn't put it down.
There are similar stories out there but this one has its own unique spin and doesnt give you time to breathe once the action gets started.
Zoe is a realistic FMC, especially for the world she lives in, and the way she handles the tasks forced upon her is both clever and a hint that maybe she's capable of more than is suggested.
The trials themselves are extremely interesting, drawing on lesser known Greek myths and monsters, helping readers feel like they dont know what's going to happen next.
I loved the twist even if I guessed it a few chapters early (personally I felt like knowing almost made it better). it will be interesting to see where the story goes in the sequel, especially with the hints of a possible love triangle teased.
.
I read this in one sitting because I couldn't put it down.
There are similar stories out there but this one has its own unique spin and doesnt give you time to breathe once the action gets started.
Zoe is a realistic FMC, especially for the world she lives in, and the way she handles the tasks forced upon her is both clever and a hint that maybe she's capable of more than is suggested.
The trials themselves are extremely interesting, drawing on lesser known Greek myths and monsters, helping readers feel like they dont know what's going to happen next.
I loved the twist even if I guessed it a few chapters early (personally I felt like knowing almost made it better). it will be interesting to see where the story goes in the sequel, especially with the hints of a possible love triangle teased.
November 20, 2025
Oh. My. God.
I am utterly in love with this book. Trial of the Gods swept me up from page one and refused to let go. It’s the perfect storm of action, emotion, and gripping storytelling — the kind of book you start reading “just for a minute” and suddenly realize hours have passed.
Zoe, that absolute sweetheart, and Tyler, the beautifully misunderstood misfit, carved out a permanent place in my heart. Every character felt alive, every moment hit just right, and I was genuinely surprised by just how deeply this story hooked me.
Putting it down? Not a chance.
Now I’m counting the days until Rise of the Champion — because if it’s anything like this one, I’m ready to be obsessed all over again.
I am utterly in love with this book. Trial of the Gods swept me up from page one and refused to let go. It’s the perfect storm of action, emotion, and gripping storytelling — the kind of book you start reading “just for a minute” and suddenly realize hours have passed.
Zoe, that absolute sweetheart, and Tyler, the beautifully misunderstood misfit, carved out a permanent place in my heart. Every character felt alive, every moment hit just right, and I was genuinely surprised by just how deeply this story hooked me.
Putting it down? Not a chance.
Now I’m counting the days until Rise of the Champion — because if it’s anything like this one, I’m ready to be obsessed all over again.
November 19, 2025
I really liked the premise of the book, it falls somewhere between the hunger games and dune. I enjoyed the Greek mythology aspect. I wish there was a bit more world building in the beginning and going into a bit more detail on how the characters ended up where they were. I wasn't overly attached to any of the characters. I know this is the first book so new perspectives and plot building might be introduced in the next novel. I found the main FMC to be alright, I didn't think she had a lot of character building other than accepting she was going to die to not wanting to die. The trials definitely outplay any romance or love interest in the book. I thought the trials were interesting and used the mythology aspect well. The entire book you are uncertain who the main MMC will be, which is kind of nice in the first novel. I also enjoyed there isn't any instalove. I could kind of see the end coming, so no major plot twists for me personally. Overall the book was ok, I think the second book will probably fill in some of the plot and maybe expand on characters a bit more. I'm looking forward to reading the second book. This is just my personal opinion, I think a lot of people will enjoy this book.
I received this novel as an Ark.
I received this novel as an Ark.
November 28, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ Review
I literally could not put this book down. This story of found family, deadly trials, Greek mythology and the Greek God… sign me up!!! This book hooked me from chapter one and if you are into any of the above mentioned things, don’t hesitate, check this book out!!!
We have an FMC Zoe who has spent her life knowing she was going to 💀 young. But fate has a different path in store for her. She is strong, smart, loyal, caring and protective (all the best qualities honestly)!!!! She has such intense feeling with her inner monologue being so grounded and showing her true feeling of rage and sadness and grief and defeat.
This story was action packed and there wasn’t a dull moment to be had. The author did a fantastic job keeping the momentum going and keeping my interest level high the entire way through. Moments of shock, excitement and sadness kept me speechless and on the edge of my seat!!!
Don’t even get me started on that ending… might as well take my 💰💰for book two right now because I fear I may not recover without it!!!
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read their work!!!
I literally could not put this book down. This story of found family, deadly trials, Greek mythology and the Greek God… sign me up!!! This book hooked me from chapter one and if you are into any of the above mentioned things, don’t hesitate, check this book out!!!
We have an FMC Zoe who has spent her life knowing she was going to 💀 young. But fate has a different path in store for her. She is strong, smart, loyal, caring and protective (all the best qualities honestly)!!!! She has such intense feeling with her inner monologue being so grounded and showing her true feeling of rage and sadness and grief and defeat.
This story was action packed and there wasn’t a dull moment to be had. The author did a fantastic job keeping the momentum going and keeping my interest level high the entire way through. Moments of shock, excitement and sadness kept me speechless and on the edge of my seat!!!
Don’t even get me started on that ending… might as well take my 💰💰for book two right now because I fear I may not recover without it!!!
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read their work!!!
November 27, 2025
Well the title doesn’t lie, this book was full of trials and was action packed throughout the whole story. The premise grabbed me right away. While it was enjoyable, I do wish that there were more references to actual mythology to explain why each trial was happening. It would have connected this to the gods better than just being an entity that is spoken about that we never meet.
Overall the characters were enjoyable and I am very intrigued with who Alec really is and what is to come in the next book.
Overall the characters were enjoyable and I am very intrigued with who Alec really is and what is to come in the next book.
December 25, 2025
This was good, but felt chaotic at times. There's a LOT of ambiguity - which fits the story as you go on - but I'm hoping things start to be more clear in book 2.
I knew The Big Thing had to happen at the end, so I'm really interested to see how that shapes Zoe and her relationship with everyone else. I (hot take???) really like Tyler and I hope he gets broken down even more in book 2.
I have no idea how I feel about Alec, but I'm definitely VERY intrigued.
I knew The Big Thing had to happen at the end, so I'm really interested to see how that shapes Zoe and her relationship with everyone else. I (hot take???) really like Tyler and I hope he gets broken down even more in book 2.
I have no idea how I feel about Alec, but I'm definitely VERY intrigued.
January 3, 2026
I don’t even know where to begin… this story did something to me.
First off, this is a dual POV, but the second perspective begins under the title “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗻 𝗢𝗻𝗲,” leaving you guessing who it could be—and I loved that layer of mystery.
𝘡𝘰𝘦, our sweet Zoe, along with her brother and five others, are thrown into trials they were completely unprepared for. I’ve read my fair share of Hunger Games–style trial books, but this one felt different. Each trial deepens the bonds between them… and with those bonds comes heartbreak. Let me tell you—I ugly cried. Be prepared.
I completely fell in love with the dynamic trio: Tyler–Sean-Zoe. Their bond was everything, and I already know I’m going to be emotionally invested in them moving forward. I can’t wait to see what book two has in store.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars
First off, this is a dual POV, but the second perspective begins under the title “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗻 𝗢𝗻𝗲,” leaving you guessing who it could be—and I loved that layer of mystery.
𝘡𝘰𝘦, our sweet Zoe, along with her brother and five others, are thrown into trials they were completely unprepared for. I’ve read my fair share of Hunger Games–style trial books, but this one felt different. Each trial deepens the bonds between them… and with those bonds comes heartbreak. Let me tell you—I ugly cried. Be prepared.
I completely fell in love with the dynamic trio: Tyler–Sean-Zoe. Their bond was everything, and I already know I’m going to be emotionally invested in them moving forward. I can’t wait to see what book two has in store.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars
December 2, 2025
Absolutely fantastic! Could not put it down. If you like trials, Greek mythology and a bit of mystery, this book is for you!
December 28, 2025
ARC Review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In this world, the Greek Gods have come back to rule over humans and they implemented “The Penance” where selected individuals of specific bloodlines are chosen to be sacrificed every 10 years. Zoe, our main character, is apart of one of those bloodlines. She begrudgingly moves through life knowing she is scheduled to die very soon in this year’s Penance. However, unknown to her, the Penance is going to be different than previous years, and she will be thrust into a long, tedious trial alongside her brother Noah and a few others that she grew up alongside in an orphanage. The book travels through multiple trials, and we see how Zoe and the others survive and overcome these challenges.🗡️ All the while, there is a mysterious second POV named “The Other One” that adds a level of mystery and suspense to the story as a whole. This was such a fun Urban Fantasy! I read it in just a couple of days because I could not put it down. Check out @mollyfrancesauth 🏛️
P.S. The second book, Rise of the Champion, comes out 1/5/26!
In this world, the Greek Gods have come back to rule over humans and they implemented “The Penance” where selected individuals of specific bloodlines are chosen to be sacrificed every 10 years. Zoe, our main character, is apart of one of those bloodlines. She begrudgingly moves through life knowing she is scheduled to die very soon in this year’s Penance. However, unknown to her, the Penance is going to be different than previous years, and she will be thrust into a long, tedious trial alongside her brother Noah and a few others that she grew up alongside in an orphanage. The book travels through multiple trials, and we see how Zoe and the others survive and overcome these challenges.🗡️ All the while, there is a mysterious second POV named “The Other One” that adds a level of mystery and suspense to the story as a whole. This was such a fun Urban Fantasy! I read it in just a couple of days because I could not put it down. Check out @mollyfrancesauth 🏛️
P.S. The second book, Rise of the Champion, comes out 1/5/26!
November 28, 2025
First, I would like to say I was lucky enough to be able to read this as an ARC reader.
Now for the review.
The funny thing about the books I read, some things are missing. Series like Hunger Games or Divergent. Though why is it funny? Because it seems that genre -- those deadly games are things I typically like. Yet, that is here nor there. Some of my previous readings involve reading Abigail Owen's The Crucible series as well as Jasmine Mas' Villains of Lore series. I would have to say Trail of the Gods DOES, in fact, have what it takes to stand right beside these two series. The ending leaves you wanting more. Yes, I knew this was a series-- yes, I knew this was book one. Though did I expect it to end like it did? I really don't know what I was thinking. Though then again, when someone reads a book, do they ever expect how the author will end a series? No. Okay, there might be some endings that you can see coming from a mile away. Those aren't exactly the best type of books. They are prediable. This one is a series of never-ending twists and turns.
If I were to refer to this book with just a few words, wild ride and mind fuck would be some of those choice words I would choose. Was I expecting there to be twelve trials? Yes. The labours of Heculues were mentioned several times; it seems like almost a waste not to do that many. Though, does it take away from the experience? No. It still gives you a wild ride.
I can't give this book anything but a five-star rating, but I did have some thoughts about this book.
1. How many times can someone get knocked out before it affects them? Yes, this had to be the first thought because, yes, it was mentioned in the book itself. I feel sorry for poor Zoe. Did anyone else get knocked out and probably have a bad trigger response from now on from mint? Or is it just poor Zoe?
2. Something that bothered me starting the book and getting to the trials. If the Death Gang was in an orphanage and lived off such low-quality things as Peanut Butter and NOT Jelly sandwiches--- how do Tyler and Zoe have cars? Yes, I get they work... but are the ecomics different in the 22nd century? Wouldn't it be even more rare to have a car with all the things that were taken with the Gods returning? Radio still works, working AC, Heating, Water--- apparently cars. Though, how does it compute exactly?
3. Mind fuckery. It is warned how this is set up upon reading, but it doesn't truly prepare you for what is to come with the reveal in the end.
Alec vs Sean. Who did I like more? I won't lie, I was always rooting for Alec from day one. I'm someone who likes the creepy stalker with dark romance over the more boy-next-door type. Sean, in my opinion, gets on my nerves. Zoe deserves better, and it isn't Sean. Hell, Tyler would have been a better choice for her than Sean. He seems so vanilla, or using Alec's terms-- boring. You can't even say he is the safe option. Tyler can be an ass, but he makes things more interesting, Alec's word choice being the spicier one. Sean honestly could have disappeared, and it wouldn't have upset me too much at all. Can I see him being important for the series and Zoe? Yes. Does it thrill me? Eh. Alec seems more like the endgame type, and every endgame needs some previously put-in love choice to overcome. That is Sean.
Now for the review.
The funny thing about the books I read, some things are missing. Series like Hunger Games or Divergent. Though why is it funny? Because it seems that genre -- those deadly games are things I typically like. Yet, that is here nor there. Some of my previous readings involve reading Abigail Owen's The Crucible series as well as Jasmine Mas' Villains of Lore series. I would have to say Trail of the Gods DOES, in fact, have what it takes to stand right beside these two series. The ending leaves you wanting more. Yes, I knew this was a series-- yes, I knew this was book one. Though did I expect it to end like it did? I really don't know what I was thinking. Though then again, when someone reads a book, do they ever expect how the author will end a series? No. Okay, there might be some endings that you can see coming from a mile away. Those aren't exactly the best type of books. They are prediable. This one is a series of never-ending twists and turns.
If I were to refer to this book with just a few words, wild ride and mind fuck would be some of those choice words I would choose. Was I expecting there to be twelve trials? Yes. The labours of Heculues were mentioned several times; it seems like almost a waste not to do that many. Though, does it take away from the experience? No. It still gives you a wild ride.
I can't give this book anything but a five-star rating, but I did have some thoughts about this book.
1. How many times can someone get knocked out before it affects them? Yes, this had to be the first thought because, yes, it was mentioned in the book itself. I feel sorry for poor Zoe. Did anyone else get knocked out and probably have a bad trigger response from now on from mint? Or is it just poor Zoe?
2. Something that bothered me starting the book and getting to the trials. If the Death Gang was in an orphanage and lived off such low-quality things as Peanut Butter and NOT Jelly sandwiches--- how do Tyler and Zoe have cars? Yes, I get they work... but are the ecomics different in the 22nd century? Wouldn't it be even more rare to have a car with all the things that were taken with the Gods returning? Radio still works, working AC, Heating, Water--- apparently cars. Though, how does it compute exactly?
3. Mind fuckery. It is warned how this is set up upon reading, but it doesn't truly prepare you for what is to come with the reveal in the end.
Alec vs Sean. Who did I like more? I won't lie, I was always rooting for Alec from day one. I'm someone who likes the creepy stalker with dark romance over the more boy-next-door type. Sean, in my opinion, gets on my nerves. Zoe deserves better, and it isn't Sean. Hell, Tyler would have been a better choice for her than Sean. He seems so vanilla, or using Alec's terms-- boring. You can't even say he is the safe option. Tyler can be an ass, but he makes things more interesting, Alec's word choice being the spicier one. Sean honestly could have disappeared, and it wouldn't have upset me too much at all. Can I see him being important for the series and Zoe? Yes. Does it thrill me? Eh. Alec seems more like the endgame type, and every endgame needs some previously put-in love choice to overcome. That is Sean.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2025
The Greek gods have returned - and they are not happy. Find out more in the amazing debut Trial of the Gods…
After the return, the world changed. To appease the gods’ anger, regular sacrifices must be made from certain bloodlines. From the age of four, Zoe has known she and her brother Noah would join their number.
But this decade, things are different. Instead of a sacrifice, there is a series of trials…and with it comes the hope of a future. All they have to do is survive.
This book was intense and amazing. In the spirit of Hunger Games, we start with a larger group of young people that gradually becomes smaller. The group goes through a number of increasingly lethal tests that draw from different sections of Greek mythology, including harpies and a siren.
The internal journey Zoe goes on moves from fatalism to burgeoning hope, allowing her to form deeper connections with those who remain. It delves into the flaws of humanity and forces the characters - and the reader - to question their choices.
There is a romantic side plot, but it is not the main feature of the book. Any intimacy is off page. The book is violent, with a high body count and significant anguish over certain actions. It is very much like Hunger Games in this regard.
With a few twists I did not expect (including one that had me reread several sections), this story is crafted beautifully. I am so excited - and terrified - to read more about this world and would have zero hesitations recommending it to fans of dystopian style fantasy.
After the return, the world changed. To appease the gods’ anger, regular sacrifices must be made from certain bloodlines. From the age of four, Zoe has known she and her brother Noah would join their number.
But this decade, things are different. Instead of a sacrifice, there is a series of trials…and with it comes the hope of a future. All they have to do is survive.
This book was intense and amazing. In the spirit of Hunger Games, we start with a larger group of young people that gradually becomes smaller. The group goes through a number of increasingly lethal tests that draw from different sections of Greek mythology, including harpies and a siren.
The internal journey Zoe goes on moves from fatalism to burgeoning hope, allowing her to form deeper connections with those who remain. It delves into the flaws of humanity and forces the characters - and the reader - to question their choices.
There is a romantic side plot, but it is not the main feature of the book. Any intimacy is off page. The book is violent, with a high body count and significant anguish over certain actions. It is very much like Hunger Games in this regard.
With a few twists I did not expect (including one that had me reread several sections), this story is crafted beautifully. I am so excited - and terrified - to read more about this world and would have zero hesitations recommending it to fans of dystopian style fantasy.
December 12, 2025
I’ll be honest—this book didn’t grab me right away. The first few chapters were a little slow for me, but they clearly served their purpose: grounding us in the world and letting us get to know the characters before everything goes absolutely off the rails. And once the trials began? I was hooked. Completely, unapologetically hooked.
Zoe and her… not-quite-friends but definitely more than acquaintances… are a group marked for death, destined to be sacrificed to the gods—Zoe’s brother included. There’s a set date, a set fate, and no way out. That is, until the trials are announced. Suddenly, if they can survive and complete these trials, they can earn the one thing they were never meant to have: a full life.
And let me tell you—these trials are messed up in the most brilliant way. Each one is rooted in a specific human weakness, which I thought was such a clever, creative, and eerie concept. Not everyone makes it out, and I’ll leave it at that.
There’s also a second POV woven into the story, and when the reveal hit? I was shocked. Truly shocked.
Zoe is an incredibly strong FMC, driven by her love for her brother and her determination to keep him alive no matter what. And Tyler—who starts off as a total dick—ended up being one of my favorite characters.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book.
Huge thank-you to Molly Frances for creating such a dark, gripping, and unforgettable story.
Zoe and her… not-quite-friends but definitely more than acquaintances… are a group marked for death, destined to be sacrificed to the gods—Zoe’s brother included. There’s a set date, a set fate, and no way out. That is, until the trials are announced. Suddenly, if they can survive and complete these trials, they can earn the one thing they were never meant to have: a full life.
And let me tell you—these trials are messed up in the most brilliant way. Each one is rooted in a specific human weakness, which I thought was such a clever, creative, and eerie concept. Not everyone makes it out, and I’ll leave it at that.
There’s also a second POV woven into the story, and when the reveal hit? I was shocked. Truly shocked.
Zoe is an incredibly strong FMC, driven by her love for her brother and her determination to keep him alive no matter what. And Tyler—who starts off as a total dick—ended up being one of my favorite characters.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book.
Huge thank-you to Molly Frances for creating such a dark, gripping, and unforgettable story.
December 26, 2025
Greek mythology 🤝 The Hunger Games 🤝 emotional damage
Trial of the Gods had me hooked from page one and guessing until the very end! I’m a sucker for anything with a mythology angle, but the real question is always whether it can hold my attention—and Molly Frances absolutely delivered.
The story follows Zoe, who has spent her entire life preparing to be sacrificed during The Penance, a fiery ritual meant to appease the vengeful Zeus by offering descendants of three rebellious kings, who rebelled against the Gods. But this year, the rules change with the introduction of the Trials and suddenly survival, choice, and hope are all on the table.
Zoe has spent years shutting herself off from the world (except for her little brother), but as the Trials begin and the mysterious Alec enters the picture, she’s forced to rethink everything: who she trusts, what she believes, and whether she might actually have a future after all.
This book had everything I love: action, high-stakes action, fantasy, morally grey characters, and just enough romance to break your heart a little. Zoe felt real, flawed, and strong in a way that made her leap off the page. And every time I thought I knew what was coming next, BOOM. Another twist.
The world felt familiar yet fresh, modern yet mythic, and I devoured it. Safe to say I’ll be grabbing book two the second it drops!
Trial of the Gods had me hooked from page one and guessing until the very end! I’m a sucker for anything with a mythology angle, but the real question is always whether it can hold my attention—and Molly Frances absolutely delivered.
The story follows Zoe, who has spent her entire life preparing to be sacrificed during The Penance, a fiery ritual meant to appease the vengeful Zeus by offering descendants of three rebellious kings, who rebelled against the Gods. But this year, the rules change with the introduction of the Trials and suddenly survival, choice, and hope are all on the table.
Zoe has spent years shutting herself off from the world (except for her little brother), but as the Trials begin and the mysterious Alec enters the picture, she’s forced to rethink everything: who she trusts, what she believes, and whether she might actually have a future after all.
This book had everything I love: action, high-stakes action, fantasy, morally grey characters, and just enough romance to break your heart a little. Zoe felt real, flawed, and strong in a way that made her leap off the page. And every time I thought I knew what was coming next, BOOM. Another twist.
The world felt familiar yet fresh, modern yet mythic, and I devoured it. Safe to say I’ll be grabbing book two the second it drops!
November 29, 2025
ARC Review
I really wanted to love this book. The premise has so much potential and I could see what the author was aiming for. However, the execution (for me) did not fully work. The pacing in the beginning felt a bit off, which made it difficult for me to settle into the story. There were also a few incomplete sentences and moments that seemed confusing, such as a creature described as being part serpent even though that detail ended up not being accurate.
The trials were a fun concept, but their structure felt a little scattered at times. I also wish the worldbuilding had gone deeper. I struggled to get a clear sense of the setting, and I was not sure if a specific town or home base was ever mentioned. It is possible I missed it, but I do not recall seeing one.
Even though this story did not work for me, I truly appreciate the ideas and creativity behind it. Debut novels take an incredible amount of time and passion, and I admire the author for bringing this book into the world. I hope they continue writing, because there are some strong foundations here that could grow into something really exciting.
I really wanted to love this book. The premise has so much potential and I could see what the author was aiming for. However, the execution (for me) did not fully work. The pacing in the beginning felt a bit off, which made it difficult for me to settle into the story. There were also a few incomplete sentences and moments that seemed confusing, such as a creature described as being part serpent even though that detail ended up not being accurate.
The trials were a fun concept, but their structure felt a little scattered at times. I also wish the worldbuilding had gone deeper. I struggled to get a clear sense of the setting, and I was not sure if a specific town or home base was ever mentioned. It is possible I missed it, but I do not recall seeing one.
Even though this story did not work for me, I truly appreciate the ideas and creativity behind it. Debut novels take an incredible amount of time and passion, and I admire the author for bringing this book into the world. I hope they continue writing, because there are some strong foundations here that could grow into something really exciting.
November 29, 2025
ARC Review
My rating system:
☆ Bad
☆☆ Okay
☆☆☆ Good
☆☆☆☆ Great
☆☆☆☆☆ Amazing
I really liked the premise of the book, and was hoping for a lot more from it. I absolutely love Greek mythology, and would have liked to have had more detail and connection to the myths in this book.
There was a lot of action in the book with the trails, which I feel was handled well, I liked the description - it was fast paced and detailed.
However, I struggled with the writing style, it felt clumsy at times. I didn't like the characters and felt they lacked depth. And I didn't enjoy the dialogue. The character interactions felt forced.
I would have liked some better world building, and I felt the reason for the bloodline curse and re-emergence of the Gods was rushed and confusing. Because of this, the beginning of the book (first 1/4) was a bit of a slog to get through, and it coloured my view of the rest of the book.
My rating system:
☆ Bad
☆☆ Okay
☆☆☆ Good
☆☆☆☆ Great
☆☆☆☆☆ Amazing
I really liked the premise of the book, and was hoping for a lot more from it. I absolutely love Greek mythology, and would have liked to have had more detail and connection to the myths in this book.
There was a lot of action in the book with the trails, which I feel was handled well, I liked the description - it was fast paced and detailed.
However, I struggled with the writing style, it felt clumsy at times. I didn't like the characters and felt they lacked depth. And I didn't enjoy the dialogue. The character interactions felt forced.
I would have liked some better world building, and I felt the reason for the bloodline curse and re-emergence of the Gods was rushed and confusing. Because of this, the beginning of the book (first 1/4) was a bit of a slog to get through, and it coloured my view of the rest of the book.
November 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75! Super lucky to receive this as an ARC☺️ I really liked this book it gave me Hunger Games meets kinda Percy Jackson vibes. I love the trial aspect and the pacing in the book was really nice. At the beginning I loved the fact that it was a shorter fantasy (294 pages) as you don’t see that too often but at the end I wished it was longer! The ending really shocked me and I couldn’t believe it was over. I liked the plot and can’t wait to read the second book to see where the story goes. I didn’t love some of the words I noticed were repeated throughout the book “fluids” being the main one but the scenes were described very well. Overall I really liked the book it was a super enjoyable read and I looooooved that the chapters were short it made the story fly by! If you’re looking for a good fast paced shorter fantasy this is the book!
November 30, 2025
3.5 stars
ARC review
I like the premise of the book, and I felt that it had a lot of promise. It was very Percy Jackson meets The Hunger Games kinda vibes. I was hoping for more world-building with more details on the explanation of the bloodline curse and the gods' return. I really had to push through the beginning of the book, and I felt it only got me hooked about halfway through. The action in the trials was well-written. There were detailed descriptions, and it was fast-paced with shorter chapters. The romance definitely takes a back seat to the trials in the book. I thought the trials were interesting, and I liked that they focused more on other creatures in Greek mythology rather than the gods. I was super shocked when I found out who ‘the other one’ was and again when a certain character dies at the end.
ARC review
I like the premise of the book, and I felt that it had a lot of promise. It was very Percy Jackson meets The Hunger Games kinda vibes. I was hoping for more world-building with more details on the explanation of the bloodline curse and the gods' return. I really had to push through the beginning of the book, and I felt it only got me hooked about halfway through. The action in the trials was well-written. There were detailed descriptions, and it was fast-paced with shorter chapters. The romance definitely takes a back seat to the trials in the book. I thought the trials were interesting, and I liked that they focused more on other creatures in Greek mythology rather than the gods. I was super shocked when I found out who ‘the other one’ was and again when a certain character dies at the end.
December 11, 2025
4.5 ⭐
I was lucky enough to recieve this as an ARC---THANK YOU Ms. Frances!!
From the very first line, I was hooked. “There were one hundred and eighty-one days left until I was scheduled to die.”
I mean—WHAT!? If that isn’t an incredible way to start a book, I don’t know what is.
I tore through this story in no time. The trials were anything but predictable, and they genuinely made me stop and think as I read. Could I survive a challenge like that? Would I be clever enough to make it through?
The characters’ stories are compelling and deeply intriguing, especially as you start to wonder, How does she possibly come back from this? Frances doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker side of taking a life, and she navigates the emotional weight of those choices beautifully.
I cried; I laughed. I cannot wait for the second book—and thank goodness I only have to wait until January!
I was lucky enough to recieve this as an ARC---THANK YOU Ms. Frances!!
From the very first line, I was hooked. “There were one hundred and eighty-one days left until I was scheduled to die.”
I mean—WHAT!? If that isn’t an incredible way to start a book, I don’t know what is.
I tore through this story in no time. The trials were anything but predictable, and they genuinely made me stop and think as I read. Could I survive a challenge like that? Would I be clever enough to make it through?
The characters’ stories are compelling and deeply intriguing, especially as you start to wonder, How does she possibly come back from this? Frances doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker side of taking a life, and she navigates the emotional weight of those choices beautifully.
I cried; I laughed. I cannot wait for the second book—and thank goodness I only have to wait until January!
December 6, 2025
I received an ARC copy of this book from the publisher/author.
I enjoyed this book. It gives me gladiator vibes; the gods themselves have little to no visible roles. There is an 'other' point of view that game me a surprise as the book progressed. The main character has unique perspectives and self-awareness given the role her world has forced her to play. The book doesn't end on a cliffhanger bit in the midst of a key story line transition that kept me wanting more.
I will gladly dive into book 2 when available.
I enjoyed this book. It gives me gladiator vibes; the gods themselves have little to no visible roles. There is an 'other' point of view that game me a surprise as the book progressed. The main character has unique perspectives and self-awareness given the role her world has forced her to play. The book doesn't end on a cliffhanger bit in the midst of a key story line transition that kept me wanting more.
I will gladly dive into book 2 when available.
December 27, 2025
I enjoyed the book. It was interesting. It had a Hunger Games vibe to it. A group of kids have been through a lot, and the blows never stopped coming throughout the book. They had known their whole lives they were to be sacrificed as a penitence to the Gods, but before that happens, they end up having to endure a different kind of trial. 10 of them, which led to devastating losses along with built friendships to last the times ahead.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
-Deadly trials
-Found family
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Enjoyed the book, but wasn’t too determined to finish it. Didn’t feel super connected with the characters, and would have loved more world building! Decided to finish the book in order to see how it ends, and the unexpected character death at the end definitely pulled at my heart strings.
-Deadly trials
-Found family
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Enjoyed the book, but wasn’t too determined to finish it. Didn’t feel super connected with the characters, and would have loved more world building! Decided to finish the book in order to see how it ends, and the unexpected character death at the end definitely pulled at my heart strings.
November 21, 2025
Loved this book! I was a little confused towards the beginning of the book but was able to understand a lot more the further I got. So many different twists and turns that I did not see coming! I thought I had the second POV all figured out but boy was I wrong! But in a good way! This book will definitely tug at your heart strings so be ready! If your looking for you next book to read I would definitely give this one a try!
Received as an ARC
Received as an ARC
November 25, 2025
I received this book as an ARC. This story follows Zoe her brother Noah and several other people marked for death as penance by the Gods, but before the day they were to die the Gods decide they are going to force them into 10 trials. This has a very hunger games feel to it and I even think the author drew inspiration for one scene from the Neverending story. I genuinely enjoyed my time with this story and I feel this series has potential to be very popular.
November 27, 2025
ARC review. I would love to give this a 3.5. This book is great for fantasy readers that love games and trials - it’s packed full of those. It also has fun mythology and creatures (think sphinx, sirens, hydras, etc.). The book was fast-paced with lots of action. There’s a very minor romantic sub-plot (no spice). I wanted a bit more from the world and a deeper connection to the characters. This appears to be the first in a series so there may be some deeper storylines to come.
November 30, 2025
I got an ARC of this book and honestly had a fun time reading it. It’s tied to Greek mythology, but the way it focuses on the lesser-known characters and the monsters, instead of the gods themselves, felt really fresh and fun. The pacing is super quick, and I was pulled in right away.
Zoe was easy to root for, and the trials were action packed and exciting to follow. I was definitely shocked about ‘the other one’. And the ending? Total tearjerker! Overall I thought his was a great read.
Zoe was easy to root for, and the trials were action packed and exciting to follow. I was definitely shocked about ‘the other one’. And the ending? Total tearjerker! Overall I thought his was a great read.
December 3, 2025
I received this book for free as an ARC and loved every moment. Granted, I am a little biased with anything based on or related to Greek Mythology, but I loved the depth added by going into lesser known or explored myths as well. This book was full of descriptions, world building, and character details that I just loved. Kept me engaged the whole time, was full of action and emotion, and was very well written. It also ended in a way that sets things up very well for a sequel. Loved this book!
December 7, 2025
Trial of the Gods
⭐️
I would like to start off with saying thank you for the ARC copy of this book.
I DNF’d this book. I thought the premise of the book sounded really good and I was excited to get to read it. But I’m not really sure what happened. I didn’t really connect with the characters, didn’t really like most of them and I thought it was taking a long time to get anywhere in the book. I think with a little more work it would have been a good book to me.
⭐️
I would like to start off with saying thank you for the ARC copy of this book.
I DNF’d this book. I thought the premise of the book sounded really good and I was excited to get to read it. But I’m not really sure what happened. I didn’t really connect with the characters, didn’t really like most of them and I thought it was taking a long time to get anywhere in the book. I think with a little more work it would have been a good book to me.
December 9, 2025
I really wish there had been more world building in the beginning. More explanation of the trials and the history. I do love the mix of Greek mythology, but there wasn't much connection to Zoe and Tyler. I think they are great characters and I love the trials but it felt very bland. I do think the next book will expand and build more and I'll probably read it for curiosities sake. I want to figure out how it all ends
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