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Expected 17 Jul 26
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A dystopian YA fantasy where Avatar: The Last Airbender meets The Hunger Games.

The Hierarch is dead. The Trials begin.
For the first time in history, a Witch enters the arena.


The Witches of Reyland have always been outsiders in the domains of Aeltheon—feared for their magic, denied power, and forced to survive on the margins of the continent.

But when the Fourteenth Hierarch dies, everything changes. The next Hierarch will be chosen through a series of deadly Trials for control of the Heart, the very source of magic and power. And for the first time, every domain may send a champion to compete.

Chosen to represent her people, Evalene Lovejoy faces more than survival. Winning could finally earn the Witches long-denied power and resources. But victory will also bring new enemies—enemies they cannot afford.

As Evy navigates deadly challenges, betrayals, and uneasy alliances, she'll learn that it won't be enough to win.

To save her people, Evy must pursue the impossible: she must prove her people belong.

And sway the heart of Aeltheon—or watch the realm rise against her.

418 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication July 17, 2026

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M.J. Badal

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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
Profile Image for Leticia Zoel.
13 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 3, 2026
What a debut novel for M.J. Badal!

If you're looking for a fun, high stakes witch novel with a dash or two of yearning this is it! The characters in this book are so well written, you can't help but love everyone in this book, even the bad guys! Except for the counsel, they are so mean! The injustice they do truly does infuriate me. haha! The story is well paced, from beginning to end. From the moment I met Evy, I was hooked on her journey into this new, and slightly forced path to the Hierarch wars. From the characters, to the plot and sub-plot, this book has everything, and I rank this book high on my fantasy series list. I wouldn't be surprised if this turns into a movie in the future. It would be well deserved. This book is any fantasy lovers dream!

Now let's dive into the story and characters a bit...

Evy is a character everyone can relate to, despite the fact that she is the queen of witches. She is kind, noble and wants what's best for her people, which we can only wish for from our real life leaders. Despite her being seventeen, she is wise and handles every situation to the best of her ability. And their magic is such a cool concept! The witches magic is completely different than most witch magic I'm used to reading about and it is so refreshing! Who knew there were other ways to be a witch?! I do feel bad for her, as she was robbed of a normal life and has so much pressure on her shoulders. But pressure does make diamonds, and she is shining like one.

Orianna being one of the first characters we meet set this story in motion, her past mysterious and her choices seem noble, well as noble as a politician type can be, but Evy can tell she's hiding something. That was a big question as the book went on for me as a reader, because Evy could tell there was something missing to the puzzle, but little did she know that it would get her in the end. Even though Orianna is introduced in the beginning and only spoken about throughout, her influence/legacy is echoing in the background, which is very compelling.

The premise that Evy has to participate but not win the Hierarch Wars, especially when witches are actually powerful as f***, to show that witches deserve a seat at the table proves to be a challenge for Evy as the wars progress. She can't help it that she's that b**ch. (insert shrug emoji here). And the heart, aka the main source of the Hierarch Wars laws/rules/system, seems to agree that she is that b**ch and then some. Like Selena Gomez sang, the heart wants what it wants, and it is not what the counsel wants at all. There's something deeper than looking for a new Hierarch, there is betrayal, extermination and a rewriting of history that needs to be solved, and it is up to Evy. Every character that is introduced is a vital puzzle piece to the story, the real struggle is waiting for the next book to see how it pieces together. Overall, this plot and sub-plot is a perfect set up for the future books that will expand this world.

On the other hand, Yorik (the brother to Aeric aka best friend/love interest to Evy) has his own plans to free the witches and himself from his past and do whatever propaganda the Gods have in store for him. Even if it kills him. Not that I'm rooting for him, but I am very curious to see how Evy will handle this in the future novels. Personally, I cannot sympathize with him fully because I think he took it too far, but what villain doesn't take things too far? They're such drama queens! haha! How Yorik and Evy's journeys are intertwined is very well written and flows like a river.

And may I just say, I have a love-hate relationship with Aeric. He is a very sweet and loyal guy, but where his loyalties lie isn't where I'd like them to be. He sees Evy for who she is, which is very appealing perspective since she has been a queen since she was three, but with Royen in the picture...I am sort of torn. I love the relationship building between these characters. Talk about perfect love triangle! Royen, a rival turned friend (but also possible lover), is a brooding, mysterious guy who's a softie underneath, especially for Evy. The diplomat in me wants them together not only for chemistry, but for political unity. This love triangle rivals if not is equal to the Peeta/Katniss/Gale love triangle from The Hunger Games series and the Alice/Jack/Peter love triangle from the My Blood Approves series.

As for the characters Celeste and Zafir, my god I love them so much and I am so heartbroken for them. Their journey in this story is one I didn't expect, especially when Yorik's plan began to unfold. Like wow, what a heartbreaking twist! Celeste is one of my favorite characters, but honestly I love them all, and her story is by far the most heartbreaking to me, and that is saying something because Royen's family life is less than ideal. Poor guy only has one person that sees him as family and genuinely cares for him.

If you want to be on the edge of your seat, staying up way past the time you were supposed to go to bed to finish this book, then buy this book when it comes out! You won't regret it at all, you'll just wish the next book is already out.

Thank you again for choosing me as an ARC reader, I am forever grateful to be one of the first people to enter the world of Aeltheon. And to everyone else reading this, go buy the book now, you won't regret it!
Profile Image for _pagesandchapters_.
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 28, 2026
The Hierarch Wars by M.J. Badal completely exceeded my expectations and is one of the most captivating fantasy books I've read in a long time!

The concept of the Trials, where the Ascendants compete for the right to become the next Hierarch, is incredibly engaging. Each challenge pushes them to conquer not only a magical world filled with wonder and danger, but also their own physical and emotional limits. Every trial felt meaningful and kept me eager to see what would happen next.

Evalene Lovejoy is a fantastic protagonist. As a witch representing her people in the Trials, she has to overcome prejudice and prove herself in a world where witches are not respected. Watching her face these unique challenges made her journey all the more inspiring, and I found myself rooting for her from beginning to end.

One of my favorite aspects of the book is M.J. Badal's writing style. The wording is beautiful and immersive, and the world-building is exceptionally detailed. Every location, magical element, and culture is described so vividly that I felt completely transported into the story.

The ending delivers an amazing plot twist that left me wanting to pick up the next book immediately. It's the kind of ending that stays with you long after you've finished reading.

If you enjoy epic fantasy with rich world-building, compelling characters, magical adventures, and high-stakes competition, I can't recommend The Hierarch Wars enough. This is an easy 5 out of 5 stars and I can't wait to continue the series🧸🤎
Profile Image for Holly Newton.
25 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 28, 2026
This book had me completely hooked from start to finish. The storyline was easy to follow without ever feeling too simple, and the world-building was done in a way that made the power structure and dynamics really easy to understand. I also loved that the character names felt unique and fitting for the fantasy setting while still being easy to read and pronounce.

The trial elements gave me Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire vibes in the absolute best way possible, and I found myself so invested in the group dynamic throughout. I was genuinely hoping for a found-family style relationship to develop between the characters because their interactions were so enjoyable to read.

Evy and Royen’s relationship was another standout for me — the tension, chemistry, and development had me obsessed, and I already cannot wait to see where things go next.

My only small point of confusion was around Evy’s royal status at times. She’s described as a queen, but some of her freedom and interactions felt very different from the way royals are usually portrayed in fantasy books, so I occasionally found myself unsure of exactly where she stood socially and politically within the world.

Overall though, this was such an addictive read with an engaging plot, strong character dynamics, and a story that kept me wanting to read “just one more chapter.” I’ll definitely be continuing the series.
122 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 13, 2026
Where do I even begin for how freaking amazing and good this was?! - Witches, Shifters, Silphs, harpies, Djinn, and so much more, crazy triad of trials, scheming and plotting Council-members, corruption, evil mechanations and plans, “Gods”, a possibly trapped or corrupted Heart that’s the source of all mana - or maybe it’s the source of all the corruption depending on who you ask, dark magic and necromancy, the best of friends, budding romances, misplaced trust in friends/family, questionable choices, crazy plot turns, and soooo much more and all that is only scratching the surface. I NEED book 2 already lol. I have sooo many questions and things I need to know where they’re going because holy bloody hell - what even just happened at the end there? Where the heck did that CRAZY twist come from - ok it wasn’t all that crazy at all but dayum - Lawrence wasn’t pulling any punches at ALL was he?

I freaking love Evy, Celeste, both the King and Prince of the Djinn, and as much as I initially liked Aeric if she EVER finds out what his brother is up to, and that he knew - he’s going to be in some pain - and ISTFG if she doesn’t figure out what’s up with Celeste and fix that before “Herald’s” plans come to fruition ima have to fight someone - I wanna see Evy save her friend because I’m terrified to see what “Herald’s” plans are for her :( - and I shudder to think what will happen if they complete their goals.

Also soo many questions about the Heart, the Draemlord, and sooo much more, where some of the things are going, and I can’t wait!

Absolutely 10/10, all the stars, loved this barely could put the book down to sleep :p CANNOT wait for book 2!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Skylar.
70 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 29, 2026
4.5/

I got this novel as an Advanced Reader's Copy (ARC) from the author.

I genuinely enjoyed this book. I am a sucker for a map of the world, pronunciation guides, and a list of characters and places - which this book had all three.

The world building is quite detailed, and the explanation of the various races makes sense and is easy enough to follow. I do wish there was a bit more of a dive into the Goddess(es) but I expect it'll happen more throughout the series.

The characters have growth, and are written in a way that I grew emotionally attached to them. Although there is a level of predictability at times throughout the novel there are also a fair amount of surprises and twists and turns. Characters are morally grey, there is a level of unrest and political strife, and the magic is beautifully explained. I adore the Witches and am excited to learn more about their role and place in the world.

I have a ton of questions, and I grew to despise Aeric - so the author has done a great job at writing toxic obsessive love. He doesn't care about anything except what he wants, and he has no qualms about the evil his brother is doing as long as he gets what he wants. A villian in his own right.

Very much looking forward to the next novel!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Mandy.
250 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 10, 2026
A fantastic start to the Hierarch Wars series.

Evalene Lovejoy is the Shaman Queen of Reyland. She and her people are Witches, and she is considered a reincarnation of the goddess Reya. All people of Aeltheon rely on mana, and witches must call spirits to use magic instead of using it directly.

Evyis called to compete in the Hierarch Wars, which is how a new ruler of Aeltheon is chosen. She is competing with Zafir, a djinn, Celeste, the Virennese princess, and Royen, the shoo-in for the title as it has been kept with shifters.

Evy must leave behind Reyland, as well as the boy she grew up with and has affections for, Aeric Whitlock. Meanwhile, Aeric's brother Yorik, is the Herald of the Chaosbound, who are trying to eradcate the world of mana and see it as an unjust force corrupting the world.

The trials are fantastic, and I thoroughly enjoyed every plot twist. I am greatly looking forward to the next book!

Thank you so much to M.J. Badal for reaching out to me and providing me an ARC for her book.
Profile Image for NS.
22 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy
June 14, 2026
I picked this up on Booksprout expecting a fantasy tournament book and ended up more invested in the characters than I thought I would be.

Evy was easy to root for from the start. She gets pushed into a role she never asked for, and I enjoyed following her through everything that comes with being Reyland’s Shaman Queen. The spirit magic was also a highlight. The bonding system was easy to understand and gave the world its own flavor.

What surprised me most was how much bigger the story became. The Hierarch Wars were only part of what was going on. As the book went on, more questions about the world started appearing, and by the end I was completely hooked by the mysteries surrounding the Heart and the portals.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Christina.
Author 2 books35 followers
Review of advance copy
May 26, 2026
[Early copy via Booksirens]

If you're like me, a reader who simply cannot get enough of magic plus trials, then I have a fresh new book for you.

The Hierarch Wars.

I knew before page one I was going to like the book based on the synopsis because I never tire of magical trials. Something about a good, life-threatening competition is comparable to a comfort food I could eat over and over again.

I had a great time reading The Hierarch Wars. I'm invested in Evy's journey and what it might mean for her people and the change it would bring to her world. I wasn't expecting the ending at all but I loved it (more books?!)

Also the teeny tiny hints of potential romance (M.J. Badal, I'm on my hands and knees for Royen).
Profile Image for TiffanyMarieTicer.
172 reviews15 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 18, 2026
Yes!!! Magic, witches, tournaments, and a great plot! I absolutely loved this book! I really loved the magic - spirits and mana - so unique! The world is complex and we learn so much during their trials which is a brilliant way of doing this because it keeps it from being “basic world building”. It’s so refreshing to read characters who are not immature also. The ending leaves you begging for the next one asap! If you love YA fantasy with great characters and a story that keeps you engaged from the very beginning then I highly recommend!

Found Family (Celeste is the best!)
Love Interests (Kissing Only and I didn’t need anymore than that)
Spirit Witch (hahaha can I call it that?)
Tournaments
A witch and an evil I don’t like (rrrgggg…a true bad guy)
She’s a Queen and a good one who truly cares for her people!
Well yes I need more now. When does book 2 release haha?
The heart wants what the heart wants - IYKYK and I want more Queen Lovejoy!

Thank you so much to MJ Badal for the gifted copy and I’m so happy I found your book! Can’t wait for more!ii
35 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 2, 2026
First off the cover of this book is stunning! I was immediately hooked from the first page of this story. The writing itself is amazing. Not quite finished eith the story but I had to go ahead and submit a short review. The mystery is captivating, there's witches, games and trials. What more could you ask for in a book?? Sensing a little bit of romance as well. Also the magic itself is unique nothing quite like what i have read before. Excited to continue on and to finish a beautifully written story. Will Evy show her full power to win or will she fall short? Thank you so much for the ARC!!

Edit: get this book ASAP when it comes out! Beautiful in and out. Beautiful story, cover, and the writing is so captivating! I was hooked from the first page. You will fall in love with these characters and the story.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews