About the Book
(Book blurb from #ExclusiveBooksSA)
“Welcome to The Sunbearer Trials, where ten semidioses compete in a series of challenges with the highest of stakes in this breathtaking, Mexican-inspired fantasy from Aiden Thomas, the author of the New York Times-bestselling Cemetery Boys.
Only the most powerful and honorable will be chosen. Teo, the seventeen-year-old trans son of the goddess of birds, isn’t worried. As a Jade, it’s unlikely he’ll be chosen to compete in the Trials, and even if his best friend Niya competes, she’s a born-and-bred Gold semidios with unparalleled abilities. But for the first time in over a century, Sol chooses not one, but two Jade competitors: Teo – and Xio, the thirteen-year-old child of the god of bad luck.
With the odds stacked against them, Teo is determined to get himself and his friends through the trials unscathed – for fame, glory, and their own survival . . . ”
My thoughts
My thoughtsYou will hear that just about everyone describes this book as “Percy Jackson meets Hunger Games with a LGBTQ+ twist.” I must confess that I didn’t read all the books in those two series, but I absolutely get where this comparison is coming from.
This book is pure entertaining adventure! Magical tournaments, gods and demi-gods (dioses and semi dioses), a diverse and representative cast – what more can you want?
The world-building is vivid and engrossing, and I so enjoyed the clear and vibrant descriptions of the various cities where the trials took place. “The Sunbearer Trials” is an entertaining, medium-to-fast paced YA fantasy with, instead of the more familiar Greek mythology references, rather focus on the vibrant Latin/South American lore and mythos. It is so entertaining, with multi-dimensional, gender and sexually diverse characters and a healthy dose of banter and rivalry amongst the competitors.
It also addresses socially relevant topics, such as social injustices, classist system and privilege.
But I must warn you, the last chapter will probably break your heart! This is the first of a duology, so I am so eager for the next one! How long do we possibly have to wait Aiden?
Also, do check out the author’s Instagram profile and website for the most divine art of the competitors!
Screenshot taken from www.aidenthomas.com
What I enjoyed:
- Vivid world-building
- Self-acceptance
- Camaraderie
- Socially relevant
- Latin American
RRR (Roelia Reads Rating) 4/5
With thanks to Exclusive Books for the opportunity to read this book! #EBRecommends
The Details
PUBLISHED BY: Pan Macmillan
DATE PUBLISHED: 15 September 2022
GENRE: Fantasy & magical realism (Children’s / Teenage)
Buy your copy from Exclusive Books: The Sunbearer Trials – Exclusive Books
