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Grasping at a sliver of hope, a group of friends undertake a perilous quest last attempted thousands of years ago . . . a quest to summon dragons.A ruthless enemy has conquered Augum’s kingdom. Sheltered beneath a protective dome, the Academy of Arcane Arts stands as the sole remaining stronghold.And Augum and his friends are about to abandon it.Little does he know escaping will be the easy part, for a harrowing adventure awaits. Along the way, he’ll have to evade an enemy that always seems one step ahead—while dealing with an ally questioning his leadership.But his greatest challenge?Learning when to show mercy . . . and when to drive in the sword.Sever Bronny is the Amazon bestselling author of the epic coming of age sagas The Arinthian Line, Fury of a Rising Dragon, and Chronicles of Anna Atticus Stone.Suggested reading 10 to retiree Young adult fantasy, sword and sorcery, coming of age, fantasy, action and adventure, epic fantasy, mystery.Explicit Mild Mild to mediumMercy's Trial paperback 656 pages

658 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 3, 2019

653 people are currently reading
148 people want to read

About the author

Sever Bronny

16 books426 followers
Sever Bronny has been a full-time fantasy author since 2015. He publishes one book a year and has three internationally bestselling fantasy series' to his name: The Arinthian Line, Fury of a Rising Dragon, and Chronicles of Anna Atticus Stone.

Prior to becoming an author, he released three albums with his industrial-rock music project Tribal Machine, including the full-length concept album The Orwellian Night. One of his songs can be heard in the feature-length film The Gene Generation.

Sever lives in British Columbia, Canada, with beloved wife, Tansy, and spritely house panther, Miso. Connect with him at his website or the fan-run Discord, where fans can mingle, discuss theories and world lore and spells, duel as arena warlocks, role-play within Bronny's world, get behind-the-scenes photos of the writing, meet the author, and much more.

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5 stars
768 (73%)
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212 (20%)
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47 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
Profile Image for Sever Bronny.
Author 16 books426 followers
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December 3, 2019
I wrote it so I'm not going to leave a star rating, but I just wanted to say that I gave it my very all with this one. Mercy's Trial clocked in at 240,000 words (656 paperback pages), took nearly 1.5 years to write, and is my eighth book (third in this particular series). That makes 1.48 million words published spread over eight books in five years.

For me, the book brings together everything that I've learned thus far, and I enjoyed the journey it took to writing it. My greatest challenge with it was to see if I could push the characters to change. Whether I succeeded or not only you can judge.

Thank you kindly for reading and supporting my work throughout these years.
9 reviews
December 3, 2019
I have been with this author and storyline from the beginning and it’s only getting better. Watching Augum grow and become powerful has kept me reading till 4 am many nights. The latest part of the journey Mercy’s Trial is an awesome read. It’s full of everything a fantasy reader could want. Magic, fighting, love, desperate live and death choices and oh my maybe dragons. We get to see old beloved characters return in this book and not just for a cameo. You can’t go wrong picking this book to read. I do suggest you start at Burdens Edge the first in the series. Even better would be starting with Arcane the first book of Augum and the girls journey part of The Arinthian Line series.
Profile Image for Jake.
90 reviews
January 10, 2021
I received this book after I paid for it with my hard earned cash. I spent 8 days reading it, and I couldn't put it down. This book was absolutely phenomenal.

I can't give enough credit to Sever Bronny. The worldcrafting he has done, setting the stage for a grand adventure, bringing it to life through the eyes of a young protagonist, takes a fine skill that many do not have. The plot is dynamic and never stale, the world and environments are exciting and fresh, and the characters have depth and feeling.

I crave Sever Bronny's work because the elements that are crafted into his stories have meaning to me. Teamwork, Friendship, diligence and study, overcoming intense challenges, facing your fears, and fighting for what you care about. Sever does this, and more, without making it seem forced or fake.

This series to me is a diamond in the rough. It deeply saddens me that more people don't love and cherish it, like I do.

Whatever book that Sever writes, if he keeps to this formula, will be in my top favorite books of all time.

Scared to start the last book in the series, because I honestly do not want it to end. Thank you, Sever, for giving me such an amazing literary experience.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
Author 1 book6 followers
December 15, 2019
What can I say about this book, other than I loved it? Whereas this second series (Fury of the Rising Dragon) started a bit slow, this book really delivers. Mr. Bronny can write action scenes amazingly well, and I am always drawn in. One line even had me sucking in my breath and saying "Oh, dang!" out loud while reading.
We see the Library of Antioc again, which made me happy, and Anna Atticus Stone!
Great character development, great pace and action. Loved seeing more of some minor characters, as well as meeting new ones (Leland, Mr. Goss, Cry, Brandon, Mary, Olaf, Arthur, Maxine, Naoki, etc). Loved seeing Jengo, especially, become such an asset to the team.
Overall, a really great read, and I can't wait to hear more about their adventures .
Edited to add: I thought this was the last book in the Fury series, and I must say, I am really glad it isn't. I can't wait to read more of the trio's adventures.
41 reviews
December 11, 2019
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.


Amazing as always! It's hard not to love this series! It was so nice to see old Allies, and meet new friends in this book. I absolutely can not wait for the next one, but perfection takes time, I'm trying to keep it together until then. One of the things I love most about the characters is that you do indeed see them grow and change and face new and difficult trials. Nothing is ever handed to them on a silver platter and it makes the story so much better, that they have to actually work to achieve their goals. The world building is absolutely incredible. There's just not enough good things I could say about every single book Sever Bronny has written in regards to Augum and friends, truly worth the time to sit down and savor the adventures.
15 reviews
December 13, 2019
Best yet

Both the author and the story have matured. The depth of the characters, their trials, and overall representation makes for a great read. When I compare this book to the first ones in the series I think there is a marked difference. Thank you for a great read and look forward to the next one!
59 reviews2 followers
December 11, 2019
Thrilling

Once again, I was captivated. I enjoy reading about Augum's growth as well as Bridget and Leera. I can't wait until next book in series. Until then, I plan to re-read the first series!!
Profile Image for Jason.
55 reviews2 followers
January 28, 2022
So the lack of character development is kidding kind of old… I get their supposed to be teenagers but holy crap have them grow a little bit from acting like 8 year olds! They don’t even act like teenagers just straight 8 year olds…. It would be one thing if it was an occasional thing but man…

So basic military strategy would be to have one senior in front and one senior in back when leaving the academy, but instead they put them all in back? I get it its convenient for the story so that none of the higher warlocks make it but it’s also a huge plot hole to have in the book…

The book consistently contradicts itself, the trio are the only ones that are supposed to know how to create the portal to Ley but then continue to tell their entire group how it is done?

One particular part that is annoying is the apology sequence for calling Leera bitter…. Seriously? He told her she was acting bitter because she was, she was acting like a child and he let her know she was…. Why would he apologize for that? She should be apologizing to him, well they should be apologizing to each other…. But part of being in a real relationship is letting the other know when they are acting a particular way…. They should need Bridgette to scold them consistently… And as I said I get it couples fight… But it is just the overall lack of development at all, they have just stayed children during all three of these books with zero progression….

The story line of this book has so much potential to get bogged down by ridiculousness….
Profile Image for Madison VanRavenhorst.
9 reviews
January 24, 2024
Oh man. Incredible. I am once again feeling so full and satisfied by Sever Bronny’s writing. Every single time I started a new book in this lineup I worried that it wouldn’t hold up, and every single time he proved me wrong. He truly brought these characters to life for me.

Augum and Leera’s relationship is really unprecedented for me in fantasy of this type, and seeing them grow and communicate in such a healthy way means everything to me…Especially when he passed along Ning’s message at the end. When he first said not to tell her, I felt sick and reread the paragraph probably five times trying to make it go away. It was so relieving to know that it wouldn’t be something that becomes a betrayal later on.

I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I genuinely think these books surpass the Harry Potter books for me (which includes the nostalgia factor, obviously). The characters are so real and deep, the incredible amounts of loss they endure, the complexity of Sithesian politics… It all adds up to create such an amazing storyline. I’m beyond impressed with this work, and I can already tell that Augum, Leera, and Bridget will be dear characters that I never keep coming back to.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
32 reviews
December 3, 2019
I need to preface this review by saying that I am an Advanced Reader, which is why this review was posted so early. And it is also so early because this is an exceptional book and i had to give it a 5-star review.

The book picks up right where Honor's Price left off. The Academy is locked down, the Siege Engine is free to terrorize everyone and everything in sight, and Augum and his fellow Arcaners must begin a quest to find a way to summon dragons.

I don't want to give away any spoilers (and there are numerous!) but nothing ever goes as expected in this book. There are twists and turns, and just when you think you know what is going on and what is happening, the story flips you on your head. I could not put down this book, and I really enjoyed reading it. I highly recommend all of Sever's books, and this book is no exception. I love the world building, the return of some old friends, and all of the strife and sacrifice Augum and his friends and loved ones experience through their journey. Read this book!
1 review
June 12, 2021
I've been reading Bronny's excellent series of books with my daughters for about a year. They are avid Harry Potter fans and were excited to get into a more 'mature' magical universe. The books are well written, and you can definitely feel the author's inspiration drawing from artists like Rowling and Martin, among others; sometimes the similarities are enough to make my daughters' eyes roll. It's a shame there's so much teenage angst and unbelievable teen-love language forced into the book; it really forces the reader out of the moment. While we really enjoyed the series I can't help but be frustrated at how close this could have come to being a classic. I wish Bronny had the services of a solid editor to help guide some of the dialog and tone down the oddly-placed teen drama that so often made us stop reading and look at each other with exasperation. I would still recommend the series despite these faults!
Profile Image for Theodor Ammerind.
2 reviews
January 7, 2020
I am going to update this review when I am done with the book.

So far not good, only three chapter in and I am already seriously debating putting it down.

When did this series become "Twilight" but even more silly.

The realism in a couple of (I presume) Medieval-ish teenagers using the same vocabulary as millennial's, I don't get it! I don't expect them to actually talk like people from the middle age's but seriously, the modern slang!

They behave so childish considering all they've been through. They where even more mature in the first books to be honest. They haven't progressed as characters but rather retrogressed.

The first chapters can honestly be skipped altogether. Only silly couples drama.

Hope it gets better! I really enjoyed the previous entries even thought all of the above where somewhat there.
Profile Image for Mason.
38 reviews
February 4, 2020
Worth every second of my precious time!!!

As said by the author in his notes, time is the most precious of all resources that we are given. In these books, all 8 set in this world, I have found a most worthy thing to spend my most valued currency. I am absolutely enthralled by these stories. The concepts are a blast for any fantasy junkie, and the isolated view points bring me back to a more mature version of fast paced novels like Harry Potter with which I grew up in love. This creates such a tension and an unknown when having to wonder what the characters besides Augum are thinking. Makes putting yourself in his shoes quite easy and very enjoyable. The arcanery system (bc we don’t call it magic) is well thought out and more intelligently discussed in each successive novel. Simply can’t wait for more...
146 reviews2 followers
December 8, 2019
Mercy’s Trial

Spoiler alert! The gang is reunited with Anna Atticus Stone!! This series continues to get better which is amazing given that the writing excellence has had to be sustained over the course if so many novels.

The heroes return to Ley and the vast knowledge stored there to search for a way to call dragons to battle the Canterrans and Katrina Von Edgeworth on the giant magic imbued mechanical dragon Orion.

In the course of their quest to save their kingdom they continue to struggle and grow as people and magic users. We get to see these beloved characters continue to mature and see how they stay strong by staying together throughout constant adversity that none could survive alone.
1 review
December 10, 2019
A bit too much real world politicking for a fantasy novel

Likes:
•A massive amount of action that makes you not want to put the book down.
•Bronny does a fine job illustrating battles.
•Good humor spread throughout.
•The book was long but didn’t feel overly long.
•Some interesting surprises surrounding the arcanery.

Dislikes:
•Feats of legend are too common and thus aren’t very legendary anymore.
•Plot was fairly predictable.
•Half the book was a commentary on women’s rights and women in power. Please leave the real world politics out of fantasy. We can watch CNN if we want to hear one sided political commentary.
•The ending felt rushed as if Bronny just wanted to wrap this longer book up.
82 reviews1 follower
December 8, 2019
Loved it!

This is book 3 of the second series involving the same characters. I loved the first series I physically couldn't put them down so amazing. Sad and raw and hard to read cause of all the feelings but because of that so amazing! The first book of the second series was a little meh for me. A lot of taking us back to the original series so people can follow along. Also very political but i read it and liked it the second was better and towards the end quite great, but this third book... Was EVERYTHING I EVER WANTED!!! So amazing it wasn't long enough and I am stoked out of my mind for book 4! Please read
41 reviews1 follower
December 8, 2019
As always I absolutely loved the book! Sever creates a world that you can see clearly and feel a part of. The characters continue to mature and you are able to watch them as they confront their weaknesses and build new strengths. Everything I hoped Sever would expound on from the previous books was revealed. If you haven’t read any of Sever’s books I suggest you start with Arcane and do not be deceived by the first couple of chapters because the stories all build up. You will find yourself drawn in and intrigued by the characters and their friendship, their trials and teamwork as they fight their way to see goodness prevail over evil. Read and savor! You won’t regret it!!!
Profile Image for James Frantz.
28 reviews1 follower
December 27, 2019
Best yet once I started I didn't put it down until completion

The series as a whole is really amazing and different than that of most magic worlds. The author really brings the reader a world where the study of magic and battle can be brought to life. As you go through each book your growing with the characters and the authors writing aswell. From reading the first book to this installment I'm impressed. The twists and turns through out the page make for a feast story and a good adventure. I'm so glad the author is going to write more this series is one of my favorite. If your a fan of fantasy, magic and battle this book is for you hands down.
5 reviews
March 5, 2020
So looking forward to the next book!

I give this series a 5 star rating every time. Augum, Leera and Bridget have matured and become the full on fighters the kingdom needs.
In this installment they face what seem to be insurmountable odds and have to dig deep to find the strength and courage needed to survive and keep their small group alive. Though Augum fears he is becoming more like his father, this journey will help point out the differences between them.


This is a must read author for anyone that enjoys magic and suspense as well as so lighthearted moments with friends. I guarantee these characters will quickly become your friends.

Enjoy the journey!


8 reviews
December 16, 2019
Would recommend the whole series

So I have read all of the books Sevor has written, including the Arinthian line too and I really do like all of them. I think they are written really well and in a way that makes it easy to connect too, but I am also a Male and close to the MC age so idk if that has anything to do with it . I think it isnt slow but not to fast paced. Also a nice balance between fighting and adventure and young blooming romance . Can't wait for the next book in the series and to see where it takes the characters.
Profile Image for Laura May.
Author 8 books53 followers
December 20, 2019
This was AMAZING - head and shoulders beyond Bronny's previous work. Finally - FINALLY - there was some thoughtful character development, and Bridget and Leera progressed beyond being shallow caricatures. The 'romance' remains over the top, and 'ye olde English' is utterly agonising to read (but at least there wasn't too much of it).
Fantastic pacing and plot development. This really is by far Bronny's best work, and I'm excited to see an already talented author improve so markedly. I can't wait for the next book!
46 reviews2 followers
December 26, 2019
Best Series New Series on the Block

Initially I liked the series but didn't love it, but the story amd characters have grown. In that I agree with the author. Very few author's seem to grasp achieve true character development but Bronny manages quite well. The story is chalk full of excellent combat scenes and a plot builds incredibly well. The only thing I could possibly knock is the juvenile humor amd romance scenes but this may help the series appeal to teen readers. Overall a great series and I look forward to the next books.
Profile Image for Dan Booth.
16 reviews
January 5, 2020
Another Great Book!

God I love this great story. Weighting for the next book is so hard but only because they are so good. This story flow's so smooth and so well that hours pass in the blink of a eye and before I know it I'm at the end. I love the bond that is building all the time between the three and one of my favorite parts is with Bridget and the pot and the arm wrestling parts. Please do yourself a favor and start from the beginning and read all the books in this series it is great!
Profile Image for Leep_zig.
43 reviews1 follower
April 27, 2020
Another excellent Addition

I really enjoyed Mercy's Trial, once I got started, I didn't want to put it down. The book is full of surprises, it balances action and just pure fun throughout the book. I would highly recommend this series. If you haven't read any of the other books start with book one, you will enjoy it more.

To me the series is comparable to something like Harry Potter, because of the characters, you get to know the characters and their personalities, their strengths, their weaknesses, and how they are growing and changing.
Profile Image for Gayreth Walden.
439 reviews10 followers
February 17, 2021
Fabulous, just fabulous!

Another magnificent book. I love following Augum, Leera and Bridget. How their characters have grown and matured. A dangerous quest to Ley, to learn of the Dragon Realm and to find answers to save their people and lands from the tyranny of evil conquerers. I was excited by the twists and turns in this well crafted story. And in the center of it all is courage, honesty, friendship, love and tragedy! An absolutely fantastic book! I am so looking forward to the next book...
36 reviews
December 3, 2019
The next stage in the development of our heroes

This book has a lot of stunning revelations about the origins of the Arcaners. It also spends time on a lot of supporting characters, making Bronny's world of arcanery so much more interesting because it's about the people and their lives, not just quests. Oh, but there are quests! And they are brutal! What the Arcaner team experiences is both amazing and horrifying. A very satisfying sequel!
139 reviews1 follower
December 14, 2019
And the story continues...

Amazing read yet again! Love this story. A little frustrating that it took so long to get here, but it was well worth the wait. Thank you Sever for another addition to a great story. Can’t wait for the next installment. My hope is that it doesn’t take as long , but I know any great story is well worth the wait? So wait patiently I will. Augum, Leera and Bridget are worth it. An’t wait to see them flying high.....
94 reviews
December 23, 2019
Great strides forward for an already fun series!

Great strides forward for an already fun series! I really enjoy these books.
They are well written.
They are fun with quick pacing and touching dialogue.
They are just overall good books.
So if you're in search of something that will leave you with a good feeling, and you want characters you can love. Then Sever Bronny has got some stories for you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews

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