Title: The Sunbearer Trials
Author: Aiden Thomas
Genre: YA Fantasy
Publisher: Pan Macmillan
Pages: 416
Release Date: 15 September 2022
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Hello fellow book lovers!
Today I'm sharing my review for the gorgeously written and exhilarating The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas. A Mexican-inspired YA fantasy that reads like the love child of Percy Jackson and The Hunger Games but with an emphasis on the importance of friendship, overcoming adversity and self-acceptance.
Synopsis
Welcome to The Sunbearer Trials, where teen semidioses compete in a series of challenges with the highest of stakes, in this electric new Mexican-inspired fantasy from Aiden Thomas, the New York Times bestselling author of Cemetery Boys.
As each new decade begins, the Sun’s power must be replenished so that Sol can keep traveling along the sky and keep the evil Obsidian gods at bay. Ten semidioses between the ages of thirteen and eighteen are selected by Sol himself as the most worthy to compete in The Sunbearer Trials. The winner carries light and life to all the temples of Reino del Sol, but the loser has the greatest honor of all―they will be sacrificed to Sol, their body used to fuel the Sun Stones that will protect the people of Reino del Sol for the next ten years.
Teo, a 17-year-old Jade semidiós and the trans son of Quetzal, goddess of birds, has never worried about the Trials…or rather, he’s only worried for others. His best friend Niya―daughter of Tierra, the god of earth―is one of the strongest heroes of their generation and is much too likely to be chosen this year. He also can’t help but worry (reluctantly, and under protest) for Aurelio, a powerful Gold semidiós and Teo’s friend-turned-rival who is a shoo-in for the Trials. Teo wouldn’t mind taking Aurelio down a notch or two, but a one-in-ten chance of death is a bit too close for Teo’s taste.
But then, for the first time in over a century, Sol chooses a semidiós who isn’t a Gold. In fact, he chooses two: Xio, the 13-year-old child of Mala Suerte, god of bad luck, and…Teo. Now they must compete in five mysterious trials, against opponents who are both more powerful and better trained, for fame, glory, and their own survival.
Review
This was such an exhilaratingly well written read that I didn’t want to put down!
The plot is phenomenally fast paced and the world building has the perfect blend of modern elements (such as the technologically savvy setting, celebrity/ influencer culture and prevalence of social media) with the more traditional high fantasy, based components which I felt added an engaging dose of fun and entertainment to the narrative.
I loved the queer-normative societal structure that has been intricately incorporated into the plot and was impressed with just how many diverse and LGBTQ+ characters we encounter—all of them beautifully complex and full of depth. Even the morally grey/ Villain-esque characters (Ocelo and Auristela) show a surprising amount of emotion in their character development and though I may not have liked them I did really enjoy getting to see glimpses of their innermost thoughts, feelings and motivations which definitely helped sympathise with their individual situations.
Teo, our protagonist was a really interesting character with a strong sense of justice that I really enjoyed. I loved how vocal he is about the disadvantages he and the other Jade’s have to face, separated from the Gold semidióses who get to attend a prestigious academy that teaches them how to survive the harsh conditions of the Trials. Yet, despite his protective (and justice seeking) inclinations, his own emotional vulnerabilities play a huge role in how he perceives himself—as a misfit that no one could ever want to be friends with.
Which is why I loved the camaraderie and friendship between Teo, Niya and Xio soo much—letting down his emotional barriers and learning to reevaluate his self worth. I was especially moved by the talk Xio and Teo have about their experiences as trans teens, which was such poignant moment and turning point for Teo.
Likewise, the blossoming relationship between Aurelio (Teo’s former friend and love interest) was such a joy to watch unfold! Though it’s a bit of a slow burn, the attraction and friendship that simmers between them is clear to see and I can’t wait to see what’s next for these two, especially after such a shockingly plot-twisty conclusion.
A vibrant and thoroughly thrilling series starter that brings a much needed spotlight on the rich and fascinating mythology of Mexico—with an endearingly vast and diverse cast of characters that I can’t wait to see more of!
A huge thank you to Pan Macmillan for the PB copy.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
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