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Shadow Trials
Not yet published
Expected 14 Apr 26She’s trained her whole life to kill monsters like him and the dragon he rides. Now, he may be the only one who can save her…
Humans are treated like cattle by the Godforged, the terrible creatures created by the gods to wage a never-ending war with each other. Fiona’s spent her life learning to wield magic stolen from the divine, to protect her people from the violence. Now she’s given the chance to become the thing she’s sworn to kill.
The God of Darkness’s champion is dead, and he’s holding a series of trials to decide who will be his next, open to anyone, including humans. If Fiona wins, she’d control his army… and how it treats innocent humans. And none of them know of the powers she wields…
These trials are filled with the strongest and most ruthless of the Godforged. But if they discover the secrets she hides, it will doom all her people.
In this world of magic and violence, there’s one person who truly understands secrets. Azric Cyrus, Death’s champion and first dragon rider, is the most brutal of all the Godforged. And the most beautiful. With wings of bone, shadows, and seduction as his deadliest weapons, even the gods listen when he speaks. Even more reason for Fiona to be wary when he takes an interest in her.
Destiny is not a fixed thing, and as its strings are pulled from behind the shadows, these two broken souls must learn to trust each other. Their lives are the least that hang in the balance.
Perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, Crowns of Nyaxia, and The Games Gods Play, Shadow Trials is the first in a long, epic romantasy series that will follow multiple couples. It does not end an HEA, but the series will.
Humans are treated like cattle by the Godforged, the terrible creatures created by the gods to wage a never-ending war with each other. Fiona’s spent her life learning to wield magic stolen from the divine, to protect her people from the violence. Now she’s given the chance to become the thing she’s sworn to kill.
The God of Darkness’s champion is dead, and he’s holding a series of trials to decide who will be his next, open to anyone, including humans. If Fiona wins, she’d control his army… and how it treats innocent humans. And none of them know of the powers she wields…
These trials are filled with the strongest and most ruthless of the Godforged. But if they discover the secrets she hides, it will doom all her people.
In this world of magic and violence, there’s one person who truly understands secrets. Azric Cyrus, Death’s champion and first dragon rider, is the most brutal of all the Godforged. And the most beautiful. With wings of bone, shadows, and seduction as his deadliest weapons, even the gods listen when he speaks. Even more reason for Fiona to be wary when he takes an interest in her.
Destiny is not a fixed thing, and as its strings are pulled from behind the shadows, these two broken souls must learn to trust each other. Their lives are the least that hang in the balance.
Perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, Crowns of Nyaxia, and The Games Gods Play, Shadow Trials is the first in a long, epic romantasy series that will follow multiple couples. It does not end an HEA, but the series will.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 14, 2026
32 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Evelyn Hart
4 books10 followersEvelyn Hart is a fantasy romance author who finds joy in bringing magical worlds to life. Her books are filled with stabby heroines, dark and sometimes broody, morally gray males, twists and turns, and magic and mayhem.She fell in love with fantasy stories as a small child. As she got older, she realized those stories could have kissing and then she was hooked.When Evelyn isn't writing, she fills her days with homeschooling her youngest twin children and attempting to crochet when her horde of rescued cats are not running off with her skein of yarn.She dreams of the day that she can move out of the city and into a castle in the forest with her husband, kids, and army of furballs to live out a fantasy life. Until then, she’ll be happy to create those worlds in the pages of her books.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars
🌶️half spice
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and given honestly.
Would you like a book that keeps you up all night, that has a plot so plotting all other plots pale compared to it, how about so much action you think you're in a MMORPG and currently raiding at 1am, how about horror and trauma to boot, strong main character and lore for days. Well, look no further because this book has all that in abundance. And for the low, low price of your sadness and tears, knowing once you reach the end, you have to wait for the next book, it can all be yours.
I just got slammed in the face with a plot so rich and detailed that I feel like I slipped into the book's world myself. I have read so many books, and honestly, sometimes it's hard to see a plot in books. Sometimes I am underwhelmed by them, well, not this book, this book slammed down the plot and was like, “Are you ready to lose yourself? Are you ready for more story than you can shake a stick at... well, here I am.” I was not disappointed. I was consumed by the world laid before my feet and the characters, the build-up and history; it was just amazing.
I would say almost from the get-go, the book was dark and gritty and gives you a great introduction to our female lead, Fiona. She is totally a badass. I love that she is smart and strong; I love myself a good female lead, and I felt like I got that in spades with Fiona. I loved getting to know her and her story; I found it really easy to put myself in her shoes and just go with the story. There was friendly banter, epic character interactions, and a well-written build-up to something spectacular, and it was so easy to read. I think the only time I really paused was when I was taking in information on things I didn't know about yet, otherwise, I ate it all up.
Oh, this is action-packed to the brim. My cup runneth over, and I revelled in it. I was totally spoiled, in fact, and so pleased. The whole story was dripping with dark grittiness, there were shocks and an unapologetic way about it that had me reading long into the wee hours of the morning. I found myself totally consumed by a need to know what happened next and how it would all end, and not wanting it to end all at once. I was on the edge of my seat with anticipation, waiting for each big revelation yet dreading what it would bring. While I was grinning at the action, there were also dark themes and gore...and sometimes I was sobbing my little heart out in the dead of night. This book, at times, really had my emotions on the run around, and a few times I thought my heart was being pulled out of my own chest. It was phenomenally written, and done so well that honestly, there was hardly anything I struggled with or did not like. The only thing that threw me off now and then were the many names, which I sometimes had to pause and check my notes for. Otherwise, the book was perfect for me!!
🌶️half spice
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and given honestly.
Would you like a book that keeps you up all night, that has a plot so plotting all other plots pale compared to it, how about so much action you think you're in a MMORPG and currently raiding at 1am, how about horror and trauma to boot, strong main character and lore for days. Well, look no further because this book has all that in abundance. And for the low, low price of your sadness and tears, knowing once you reach the end, you have to wait for the next book, it can all be yours.
I just got slammed in the face with a plot so rich and detailed that I feel like I slipped into the book's world myself. I have read so many books, and honestly, sometimes it's hard to see a plot in books. Sometimes I am underwhelmed by them, well, not this book, this book slammed down the plot and was like, “Are you ready to lose yourself? Are you ready for more story than you can shake a stick at... well, here I am.” I was not disappointed. I was consumed by the world laid before my feet and the characters, the build-up and history; it was just amazing.
I would say almost from the get-go, the book was dark and gritty and gives you a great introduction to our female lead, Fiona. She is totally a badass. I love that she is smart and strong; I love myself a good female lead, and I felt like I got that in spades with Fiona. I loved getting to know her and her story; I found it really easy to put myself in her shoes and just go with the story. There was friendly banter, epic character interactions, and a well-written build-up to something spectacular, and it was so easy to read. I think the only time I really paused was when I was taking in information on things I didn't know about yet, otherwise, I ate it all up.
Oh, this is action-packed to the brim. My cup runneth over, and I revelled in it. I was totally spoiled, in fact, and so pleased. The whole story was dripping with dark grittiness, there were shocks and an unapologetic way about it that had me reading long into the wee hours of the morning. I found myself totally consumed by a need to know what happened next and how it would all end, and not wanting it to end all at once. I was on the edge of my seat with anticipation, waiting for each big revelation yet dreading what it would bring. While I was grinning at the action, there were also dark themes and gore...and sometimes I was sobbing my little heart out in the dead of night. This book, at times, really had my emotions on the run around, and a few times I thought my heart was being pulled out of my own chest. It was phenomenally written, and done so well that honestly, there was hardly anything I struggled with or did not like. The only thing that threw me off now and then were the many names, which I sometimes had to pause and check my notes for. Otherwise, the book was perfect for me!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advanced Reader Copy Review
I just finished this book yesterday, and honestly, it’s one of the best books I’ve read in 2026 so far. It’s a 5 star book for me. The world-building completely blew me away, the gods especially had me hooked. I think my favorites have to be Veris and Taldor (I’m obsessed 😭). I love how they’re small but have these huge mouths on them, the way they speak, so blunt and absolute makes them feel incredibly unique and memorable.
The author’s writing style is another huge standout. It’s immersive, engaging, and constantly keeps you wanting more. From the very beginning, the story just launches. You’re immediately grounded in who the main character is, how the world works, and what’s at stake. It’s very “bam, bam, bam let’s go,” and I loved that fast-paced momentum. I was hooked from the first page and genuinely didn’t want to put the book down.
I also really loved both the MMC and FMC, but I especially appreciated how much focus we got on the FMC (Fiona) in this book. Her perspective felt strong, intentional, and central to the story in a way that made everything more impactful.
Chapters 55 and 56 absolutely stood out to me. They were some of the most emotional moments in the book. After hearing so much about this particular character, finally getting that deeper insight especially in chapter 56 was honestly heartbreaking. It really highlights the emotional weight of what these champions go through. The writing in those chapters was beautiful and deeply moving.
During the trial, we also lost a character I had grown really attached to and that moment hit hard. It’s funny because part of me knew not to get attached, like there were subtle hints that something drastic might happen to him… but I couldn’t help it. He was written in such a layered, compelling way that you naturally connect with him. When it finally happened, it broke my heart. But at the same time, I understood why it had to be him. He almost felt like the “perfect” character in hiding, and losing him made everything feel more real.
Another thing I really appreciated was how the true villains are still kept very vague. We get just enough description to be intrigued, but not nearly enough to fully understand them yet—and that mystery is so exciting. It builds anticipation perfectly for what’s coming next.
This is easily one of the most immersive magical worlds I’ve experienced in a while. I’m a little sad that all the books aren’t out yet, but at the same time, I love being able to sit with each one and speculate. Like… after everything that happened in the trial, it ended like that?! Mind blown.
And I cannot wait to get more of Azric’s POV in the next book. I’m SO excited.
Overall, this book delivered on every level for me: world-building, characters, pacing, and emotional depth. I’ll definitely be thinking about it for a long time.
I just finished this book yesterday, and honestly, it’s one of the best books I’ve read in 2026 so far. It’s a 5 star book for me. The world-building completely blew me away, the gods especially had me hooked. I think my favorites have to be Veris and Taldor (I’m obsessed 😭). I love how they’re small but have these huge mouths on them, the way they speak, so blunt and absolute makes them feel incredibly unique and memorable.
The author’s writing style is another huge standout. It’s immersive, engaging, and constantly keeps you wanting more. From the very beginning, the story just launches. You’re immediately grounded in who the main character is, how the world works, and what’s at stake. It’s very “bam, bam, bam let’s go,” and I loved that fast-paced momentum. I was hooked from the first page and genuinely didn’t want to put the book down.
I also really loved both the MMC and FMC, but I especially appreciated how much focus we got on the FMC (Fiona) in this book. Her perspective felt strong, intentional, and central to the story in a way that made everything more impactful.
Chapters 55 and 56 absolutely stood out to me. They were some of the most emotional moments in the book. After hearing so much about this particular character, finally getting that deeper insight especially in chapter 56 was honestly heartbreaking. It really highlights the emotional weight of what these champions go through. The writing in those chapters was beautiful and deeply moving.
During the trial, we also lost a character I had grown really attached to and that moment hit hard. It’s funny because part of me knew not to get attached, like there were subtle hints that something drastic might happen to him… but I couldn’t help it. He was written in such a layered, compelling way that you naturally connect with him. When it finally happened, it broke my heart. But at the same time, I understood why it had to be him. He almost felt like the “perfect” character in hiding, and losing him made everything feel more real.
Another thing I really appreciated was how the true villains are still kept very vague. We get just enough description to be intrigued, but not nearly enough to fully understand them yet—and that mystery is so exciting. It builds anticipation perfectly for what’s coming next.
This is easily one of the most immersive magical worlds I’ve experienced in a while. I’m a little sad that all the books aren’t out yet, but at the same time, I love being able to sit with each one and speculate. Like… after everything that happened in the trial, it ended like that?! Mind blown.
And I cannot wait to get more of Azric’s POV in the next book. I’m SO excited.
Overall, this book delivered on every level for me: world-building, characters, pacing, and emotional depth. I’ll definitely be thinking about it for a long time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Must Read Masterclass in World-Building and Slow-Burn Tension
“Is that a destiny?...Or is it a possibility?”
Where do I begin? I didn’t just read this book, I was completely consumed by it from the very first chapter. The writing is so vivid and colorful that the world feels tangible...like you are part of it and experiencing everything around you. The characters make you feel real connections and raw emotions...you either fall in love with them or loathe them for the villains they are. The plot is also so incredibly rich and full of delicious crumbs to follow every step of the way. I loved everything about this book!!! ❤️ While this is a plot-forward introduction focused on world building, the pacing is absolutely flawless. It is a story of trials, duty, and fate...everything I am drawn to in a romantasy. I was especially fascinated by the unique magic system...the marks and infusions were super intriguing and something I have personally never seen before.
Though this first installment has low to no spice, the yearning and tension are agonizing in the best way possible...knuckle biting with this slowest of burns that makes me believe that the eventual payoff will be legendary. I also enjoyed the woven interludes that give you that 'peek behind the curtain' providing crucial insight giving the story that much more texture. This is an incredible start to a journey of destiny, and I so here for it!!! Can't wait to see where this story goes next!!!
I was introduced to Evelyn Hart's writing recently and already know that she is one of those authors that I will read anything she writes from here on out. ✨️ While this is connected to her debut Shadowed Debts series (which you should absolutely also read for the full experience), Shadow Trials can be read as a standalone. It does have darker themes and scenes so please be sure to check your trigger warnings. ⚠️
Writing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: N/A - 🫑
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Is that a destiny?...Or is it a possibility?”
Where do I begin? I didn’t just read this book, I was completely consumed by it from the very first chapter. The writing is so vivid and colorful that the world feels tangible...like you are part of it and experiencing everything around you. The characters make you feel real connections and raw emotions...you either fall in love with them or loathe them for the villains they are. The plot is also so incredibly rich and full of delicious crumbs to follow every step of the way. I loved everything about this book!!! ❤️ While this is a plot-forward introduction focused on world building, the pacing is absolutely flawless. It is a story of trials, duty, and fate...everything I am drawn to in a romantasy. I was especially fascinated by the unique magic system...the marks and infusions were super intriguing and something I have personally never seen before.
Though this first installment has low to no spice, the yearning and tension are agonizing in the best way possible...knuckle biting with this slowest of burns that makes me believe that the eventual payoff will be legendary. I also enjoyed the woven interludes that give you that 'peek behind the curtain' providing crucial insight giving the story that much more texture. This is an incredible start to a journey of destiny, and I so here for it!!! Can't wait to see where this story goes next!!!
I was introduced to Evelyn Hart's writing recently and already know that she is one of those authors that I will read anything she writes from here on out. ✨️ While this is connected to her debut Shadowed Debts series (which you should absolutely also read for the full experience), Shadow Trials can be read as a standalone. It does have darker themes and scenes so please be sure to check your trigger warnings. ⚠️
Writing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: N/A - 🫑
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thought I’d finish reading this book in app. 2/3 based on its length, but NO, I ate this book up in a day. Yes.. a day!
Thank you Evelyn Hart for an ARC of this book, thank you for the coloured map, the cover is stunning, the glossary which helped a ton and for writing a great Romantasy!
3.75/5 stars!
“They say there was peace, that humans lived without fear of anything other than the cruelness hidden in the hearts of men.”
“it is to give them life when death is all around them”.
To describe the FMC, she’s basically a Priestess who is “a small girl in a world full of men with a father who’s always been cold and distant”. She’s badass and says stuff like “my inexperience is a weakness and I refuse to allow any weakness to survive”.
Firstly, what I loved about this book:
- writing style overall had quite a fast pace and from the first chapter, were straight in on some action;
- the magic system is very unique (Marks and Infusions) which is new to me;
Secondly, what I didn’t like as much (these are based solely on my own opinions and are purely personal preferences):
- the pacing was slow at times, by that I mean that some chapters dragged out and felt repetitive in parts;
- there’s were A LOT of names/places/Gods and so on to remember so it was getting really difficult for me to enjoy the story in places, as it did confuse me more than any other Romantasy I’ve read (and some of those have been hard to get into too!) this was quite a big one for and what (for me) was the biggest let down as I felt the author needed to explain/expand or justify what some of the roles of the different Houses were for example, or what each infusion did and so on.
Thank you Evelyn Hart for an ARC of this book, thank you for the coloured map, the cover is stunning, the glossary which helped a ton and for writing a great Romantasy!
3.75/5 stars!
“They say there was peace, that humans lived without fear of anything other than the cruelness hidden in the hearts of men.”
“it is to give them life when death is all around them”.
To describe the FMC, she’s basically a Priestess who is “a small girl in a world full of men with a father who’s always been cold and distant”. She’s badass and says stuff like “my inexperience is a weakness and I refuse to allow any weakness to survive”.
Firstly, what I loved about this book:
- writing style overall had quite a fast pace and from the first chapter, were straight in on some action;
- the magic system is very unique (Marks and Infusions) which is new to me;
Secondly, what I didn’t like as much (these are based solely on my own opinions and are purely personal preferences):
- the pacing was slow at times, by that I mean that some chapters dragged out and felt repetitive in parts;
- there’s were A LOT of names/places/Gods and so on to remember so it was getting really difficult for me to enjoy the story in places, as it did confuse me more than any other Romantasy I’ve read (and some of those have been hard to get into too!) this was quite a big one for and what (for me) was the biggest let down as I felt the author needed to explain/expand or justify what some of the roles of the different Houses were for example, or what each infusion did and so on.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Yeah… this one has officially claimed my top spot for the year so far. Shadow Trials completely pulled me in and refused to let go. It has that kind of grip where you sit down to read a few chapters and suddenly you’re way too deep to stop.
Fiona is exactly the kind of FMC I love, strong without being untouchable, determined, and carrying more weight than she lets on. Throw her into brutal trials tied to gods, power, and survival, and it’s nonstop tension from start to finish. There’s always something at stake, always something shifting, and it keeps you on edge in the best way.
And Azric… yeah, he understood the assignment. Dark, dangerous, and just enough mystery to make you question everything. The dynamic between them builds slowly, but it never feels dragged out. It’s controlled, intentional, and full of that underlying tension that makes every interaction hit harder than it should.
What really sealed it for me was how immersive it felt. The world, the magic, the dragons, the politics behind it all, it layers together in a way that makes you forget you’re reading. Even knowing this isn’t a complete HEA yet, I didn’t care. I was all in anyway.
This is one of those books that reminds you why you love romantasy in the first place. I’ll be thinking about this one for a while, and I already know I’m not done with this series.
Fiona is exactly the kind of FMC I love, strong without being untouchable, determined, and carrying more weight than she lets on. Throw her into brutal trials tied to gods, power, and survival, and it’s nonstop tension from start to finish. There’s always something at stake, always something shifting, and it keeps you on edge in the best way.
And Azric… yeah, he understood the assignment. Dark, dangerous, and just enough mystery to make you question everything. The dynamic between them builds slowly, but it never feels dragged out. It’s controlled, intentional, and full of that underlying tension that makes every interaction hit harder than it should.
What really sealed it for me was how immersive it felt. The world, the magic, the dragons, the politics behind it all, it layers together in a way that makes you forget you’re reading. Even knowing this isn’t a complete HEA yet, I didn’t care. I was all in anyway.
This is one of those books that reminds you why you love romantasy in the first place. I’ll be thinking about this one for a while, and I already know I’m not done with this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of Advanced Copy received from author
This book didn’t just drag me into the arena… it pinned me there and whispered “survive me.”
If you love:
🖤 morally gray MMCs who feel like a bad decision you’d make twice
🔥 slow burn that hurts before it heats
⚔️ deadly trials + “touch her and die” energy
🌑 shadow magic that feels a little too intimate
…welcome to your new personality.
Fiona?? She’s not just surviving—she’s adapting, sharpening, unraveling in the most delicious way. Watching her stand toe-to-toe with something far more dangerous than monsters?? Addictive.
And AZRIC CYRUS…this man is a problem.
Cold hands, sharp edges, the kind of presence that presses too close and lingers too long. He doesn’t flirt—he studies, circles, claims space like it already belongs to him. Every moment between them feels like a breath held too long… like if one of them moves first, everything combusts.
And when the tension finally snaps??Yeah. You’re not recovering quickly.
The romance is a slow descent—less falling, more sliding willingly into ruin. Power, obsession, curiosity… it all tangles until you can’t tell what’s more dangerous: the trials or them.
💭 “She was meant to destroy monsters… but he’s the one teaching her how to crave the dark.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Read if you want tension so thick it feels like a touch… and a love story that bites
This book didn’t just drag me into the arena… it pinned me there and whispered “survive me.”
If you love:
🖤 morally gray MMCs who feel like a bad decision you’d make twice
🔥 slow burn that hurts before it heats
⚔️ deadly trials + “touch her and die” energy
🌑 shadow magic that feels a little too intimate
…welcome to your new personality.
Fiona?? She’s not just surviving—she’s adapting, sharpening, unraveling in the most delicious way. Watching her stand toe-to-toe with something far more dangerous than monsters?? Addictive.
And AZRIC CYRUS…this man is a problem.
Cold hands, sharp edges, the kind of presence that presses too close and lingers too long. He doesn’t flirt—he studies, circles, claims space like it already belongs to him. Every moment between them feels like a breath held too long… like if one of them moves first, everything combusts.
And when the tension finally snaps??Yeah. You’re not recovering quickly.
The romance is a slow descent—less falling, more sliding willingly into ruin. Power, obsession, curiosity… it all tangles until you can’t tell what’s more dangerous: the trials or them.
💭 “She was meant to destroy monsters… but he’s the one teaching her how to crave the dark.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Read if you want tension so thick it feels like a touch… and a love story that bites
Review of advance copy received from Author
DISCLAIMER THIS IS BASED OFF OF AN ARC COPY PROVIDED BY THE AUTHOR
Characters: 1.5/1.5🌟
Plot: 2/2🌟
Writing Style: 1.5/1.5🌟
My Thoughts: If you are after a well-written, banter-friendly, and mostly-plot building book, you've come to the write place. Unlike most romantasy books nowadays, Shadow Trials focuses on mainly the plot building up and characters developing rather than the romance portion of the book. Evelyn creates the world around you and makes sure you grow to love the characters individually before you love the primary couple. With essential zero explicit scenes, it's very easy to fall in love with the world of Nyth and it's characters. However, be warned, this book will play at your heartstrings. The closer you get to the characters, the more you'll find yourself sitting at the edge of your seat to see what happens next. Personally, I am a Darian girl, and let's just say that is not a path for the faint of heart. In the end, this book was written with such vivid details and scenes to the point I felt like I was fully witnessing everything. Overall, I can't wait for the final copy to be released and to see what Evelyn does next!
Characters: 1.5/1.5🌟
Plot: 2/2🌟
Writing Style: 1.5/1.5🌟
My Thoughts: If you are after a well-written, banter-friendly, and mostly-plot building book, you've come to the write place. Unlike most romantasy books nowadays, Shadow Trials focuses on mainly the plot building up and characters developing rather than the romance portion of the book. Evelyn creates the world around you and makes sure you grow to love the characters individually before you love the primary couple. With essential zero explicit scenes, it's very easy to fall in love with the world of Nyth and it's characters. However, be warned, this book will play at your heartstrings. The closer you get to the characters, the more you'll find yourself sitting at the edge of your seat to see what happens next. Personally, I am a Darian girl, and let's just say that is not a path for the faint of heart. In the end, this book was written with such vivid details and scenes to the point I felt like I was fully witnessing everything. Overall, I can't wait for the final copy to be released and to see what Evelyn does next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review – Shadow Trials by Evelyn Hart.
Shadow Trials completely swept me away. This was one of those books I picked up and simply could not put down—I devoured it.
Evelyn Hart has a way of pulling you deep into the emotional core of her characters. I didn’t just read their journey—I felt it. The angst, the tension, the vulnerability—it all came through so vividly that it made every moment hit harder. There were scenes that made me laugh out loud, others that genuinely brought tears to my eyes, and moments that left me frustrated in the best possible way.
The pacing and energy of the story kept me fully engaged from beginning to end. Every chapter felt purposeful, building on the last and driving the plot forward in a way that made it impossible to stop “just one more chapter.”
The storytelling was immersive, emotional, and incredibly well executed.
This book is a powerful reminder of how impactful great writing can be. Shadow Trials isn’t just a story—it’s an experience.
I absolutely loved this book and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for something that will pull them in and not let go.
Shadow Trials completely swept me away. This was one of those books I picked up and simply could not put down—I devoured it.
Evelyn Hart has a way of pulling you deep into the emotional core of her characters. I didn’t just read their journey—I felt it. The angst, the tension, the vulnerability—it all came through so vividly that it made every moment hit harder. There were scenes that made me laugh out loud, others that genuinely brought tears to my eyes, and moments that left me frustrated in the best possible way.
The pacing and energy of the story kept me fully engaged from beginning to end. Every chapter felt purposeful, building on the last and driving the plot forward in a way that made it impossible to stop “just one more chapter.”
The storytelling was immersive, emotional, and incredibly well executed.
This book is a powerful reminder of how impactful great writing can be. Shadow Trials isn’t just a story—it’s an experience.
I absolutely loved this book and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for something that will pull them in and not let go.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
NetGalley ARC and Author Direct ARC
Shadow Trials by Evelyn Hart
🌟🌟🌟🌟.25 Stars
Releases April 14th, 2026
First thing first, I wasn't sure how I felt about this book for about the first 100 pages. Sounds like a huge commitment, but I PROMISE it does pay off! The last five chapters had me holding back tears and if anyone knows me, they KNOW I love a book that is emotionally damaging.
Shadow Trials follows the story of Fiona, our strong and resilient FMC who was basically orphaned and then was brought up by her "dad" who is part of the Priest, and that's how she was trained. The catch is, women cannot become a Priest. Fiona pretty much says "hold my beer, I can and I WILL".
The writing was natural, but the pacing was inconsistent at times. However, it seemed intentional to the plot, so I'll let it slide!
The only thing that took away from this book (for me) was the amount of names/gods to keep track of.
All I know is that ending has me ready for the next book!
Shadow Trials by Evelyn Hart
🌟🌟🌟🌟.25 Stars
Releases April 14th, 2026
First thing first, I wasn't sure how I felt about this book for about the first 100 pages. Sounds like a huge commitment, but I PROMISE it does pay off! The last five chapters had me holding back tears and if anyone knows me, they KNOW I love a book that is emotionally damaging.
Shadow Trials follows the story of Fiona, our strong and resilient FMC who was basically orphaned and then was brought up by her "dad" who is part of the Priest, and that's how she was trained. The catch is, women cannot become a Priest. Fiona pretty much says "hold my beer, I can and I WILL".
The writing was natural, but the pacing was inconsistent at times. However, it seemed intentional to the plot, so I'll let it slide!
The only thing that took away from this book (for me) was the amount of names/gods to keep track of.
All I know is that ending has me ready for the next book!
Review of advance copy
✨ BOOK REVIEW ✨
Shadow Trials
by Evelyn Hart
Evelyn… you’ve done it again.
I had the absolute privilege of beta reading this, and I’m still not over it. This book is a full-blown experience — emotional, intense, and completely consuming.
If you haven’t read the Shadowed Debts books yet… go do that NOW so you can dive straight into this when it releases. Trust me, you’re going to want to be ready.
✨ Epic storytelling
✨ Gripping, emotional depth
✨ The kind of book that lingers long after you finish
This is not just a 5-star read…
It’s a 6-star, favorite-of-all-time kind of book.
I’m still thinking about it. I will always be thinking about it.
Have you started her first series yet? 👀📚
#bookreview #fantasyromance #indieauthor #bookstagram #mustread betareader shadowtrials fantasybooks romancereads
Shadow Trials
by Evelyn Hart
Evelyn… you’ve done it again.
I had the absolute privilege of beta reading this, and I’m still not over it. This book is a full-blown experience — emotional, intense, and completely consuming.
If you haven’t read the Shadowed Debts books yet… go do that NOW so you can dive straight into this when it releases. Trust me, you’re going to want to be ready.
✨ Epic storytelling
✨ Gripping, emotional depth
✨ The kind of book that lingers long after you finish
This is not just a 5-star read…
It’s a 6-star, favorite-of-all-time kind of book.
I’m still thinking about it. I will always be thinking about it.
Have you started her first series yet? 👀📚
#bookreview #fantasyromance #indieauthor #bookstagram #mustread betareader shadowtrials fantasybooks romancereads
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gods, Godforged, Priests, and humans but who is the true enemy and why is Nyth possibly going to suffer? And at who's hands? This book introduces you to Fiona, a girl who practices as a priest but not apart of The Order. When there needs to be a trials competition to determine who will rule over all, will Fiona enter the ring and who will she compete against? This book was full of fast paced action, twists, turns and a slow burn that will pull you through this romantasy. Did, I mention dragons, because on top of all that you get dragons. Shadow Trials was well paced and then the last few chapters sends you on a ride that has you turning pages fast. You get a couple different magic systems in this story. You also get to witness people coming together to fight a common cause. If you love romantasy put this on your list to read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I found Shadow Trials by Evelyn Hart to be an absolutely addictive start to a series, and I already know I need more. This was a fantastic first book that pulled me in straight away with its high stakes trials, dangerous magic, and intense romance.
I loved the world building and the concept of humans entering deadly trials among the Godforged, it felt fresh, brutal, and completely immersive. The dynamic between Fiona and Azric was a standout, full of tension, danger, and that irresistible pull that kept me hooked from start to finish.
This had everything I want in a romantasy 😁
enemies to lovers, trials, forced proximity, hidden powers, dragon riders, morally grey characters, deadly competition, forbidden attraction, and fate vs free will.
Perfect for fans of Fourth Wing and The Serpent and the Wings of Night with its dark romantasy tone, powerful magic, and intense character dynamics
I loved the world building and the concept of humans entering deadly trials among the Godforged, it felt fresh, brutal, and completely immersive. The dynamic between Fiona and Azric was a standout, full of tension, danger, and that irresistible pull that kept me hooked from start to finish.
This had everything I want in a romantasy 😁
enemies to lovers, trials, forced proximity, hidden powers, dragon riders, morally grey characters, deadly competition, forbidden attraction, and fate vs free will.
Perfect for fans of Fourth Wing and The Serpent and the Wings of Night with its dark romantasy tone, powerful magic, and intense character dynamics
March 27, 2026
Shadow Trials by Evelyn Hart is one of the best books I’ve read this year, a full 5 stars.
The world is complex and layered, with a large cast of characters that really requires your attention, but it pays off. The magic system feels fresh and unique, and the trials themselves are executed brilliantly, tense, immersive, and meaningful to the story.
The romance is a true slow burn, which I love personally.
The pacing of the plot was so well done, hit the ground running and I was completely gripped from the beginning to the very end.
This book hit hard emotionally. I cried several times, and that ending absolutely shattered me with every layer of nuance.
I’m already counting down to the next book because I need to see how the rest of this story unfolds… but first a reread!
The world is complex and layered, with a large cast of characters that really requires your attention, but it pays off. The magic system feels fresh and unique, and the trials themselves are executed brilliantly, tense, immersive, and meaningful to the story.
The romance is a true slow burn, which I love personally.
The pacing of the plot was so well done, hit the ground running and I was completely gripped from the beginning to the very end.
This book hit hard emotionally. I cried several times, and that ending absolutely shattered me with every layer of nuance.
I’m already counting down to the next book because I need to see how the rest of this story unfolds… but first a reread!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book from the author, my review is my own opinion of this book.
What a world Evelyn has created for this story to take place in. From start to finish it kept me hooked, I just wanted to keep reading & not put it down. I don't think I've read anything with this combination of characters in it previously & it worked so well. I went through this continually wondering how can a simple human female think she has any hope competing & surviving against the champions of the Gods?
All of the back stories are woven seamlessly into this book, allowing you to see how the champions & our FMC have been forged into who they are. I could feel the anger, the pain, the questioning, not just read it.
What a world Evelyn has created for this story to take place in. From start to finish it kept me hooked, I just wanted to keep reading & not put it down. I don't think I've read anything with this combination of characters in it previously & it worked so well. I went through this continually wondering how can a simple human female think she has any hope competing & surviving against the champions of the Gods?
All of the back stories are woven seamlessly into this book, allowing you to see how the champions & our FMC have been forged into who they are. I could feel the anger, the pain, the questioning, not just read it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely devoured this book. It has great world building and character development. I thought it would take me longer to get through but I finished this in less than two days it was so good. It proves that we are all stronger than we believe ourselves to be and that we can adapt to whatever life puts in our way, which after what has been putting me through i really needed to see it work out for someone elese in order to remind myself that i am strong enough. It also shows that the person we least expect can actually help us the most. I can't wait for the second book so I can find out how this major cliff hanger is going to go.
Read
March 27, 2026So I was lucky to read this book as an advanced copy. Let me pick my mouth up off the floor. This book was amazing. It was so well written and detailed. I thought it was going to be another dragon and rider story, but I was WRONG. I could not get enough of the characters,Fiona and Azric, and the world building. Slow burn would be the most accurate as the heat was not as spicy as I usually go for. But for this book, it felt right. I was not wanting it to end the way it did. But if the next book is as great as this one, I will be excited to read it also.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Absolutely loved it!! The characters were so well thought out detailed. I’d call it a slow-er burn but not terribly slow. And the trials Fiona goes through are awesome. I love that we seem to be getting back into the Trial book era. This book just seems to have everything a girl could want! Dragons, Fae, Gods, Demons, Hunters, other mystical beings. Just check it out while I impatiently wait for book 2.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book may start off slow as you dive into the world of Nyth and meet all the characters but it makes up for it with the depth of the story. Lots of things happening behind the scenes and everyone seems so coldhearted. Lack of morality is explained away as “for the greater good” and everyone wants or needs something from everyone else. A terrifying world to live in especially for a human.
March 26, 2026
I enjoyed this trials fantasy. There is a lot going on in this novel. I do appreciate the 2 legends. One in the front and one in the back. It is very long so grab some snacks and a blanket and be prepared to tuck in.
If you are a fan of Trials or Academy type fantasy books this would be a good one to check out.
If you are a fan of Trials or Academy type fantasy books this would be a good one to check out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Evelyn has created an interesting world with characters that draws you in. Fiona is strong from the start but learns more on how to use that strength. The slowburn tension between her and Azric is good. This has deadly trials, dragons and gods with champions.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book has everything! Stabby fmc who sees her flaws and is willing to put in the work. Steamy mmc with layers. Sloooooww burn, enemies to lovers, sassy gods, dragons with attitude, a unique magic system.... best book I've read all year! Can't wait for the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC REVIEW✨
this book is full of action and twists and turns. there was a couple times reading i had to stop cause i was like woah.
definitely a book worth reading!!
releases 4/14!
this book is full of action and twists and turns. there was a couple times reading i had to stop cause i was like woah.
definitely a book worth reading!!
releases 4/14!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love this magic sistem.. it's interesting.. love the book.. the writing. It was just what I needed . Perfect!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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