Book cover of The Blood Trials

Book description

Blending fantasy and science fiction, N. E. Davenport's fast-paced, action-packed debut kicks off a duology of loyalty and rebellion, in which a young Black woman must survive deadly trials in a racist and misogynistic society to become an elite warrior.

It's all about blood.

The blood spilled between the Republic…

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Why read it?

2 authors picked The Blood Trials as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I love this book because it marries the brutality of military sci-fi with epic fantasy in a colossally satisfying fashion. It has dark gods, blood magic, and the grueling rigors of military training. And Ikenna, the main character, takes no crap from anyone, no matter how powerful. You can’t help but to root for her!

For me, The Blood Trials accomplishes what many fiction books are rarely able to, blend the genres of science fiction and fantasy, while exploring complex social themes, such as racism, discrimination, and classism. As an African American, I often search for good action books with black protagonists. As a young black woman, protagonist Ikenna Amari becomes the target of demoralizing treatment, while fighting through the trials to earn the military rank and status of Praetorian. Written in first person, I was easily transported inside the tempest that is Ikenna’s thoughts. I was able to feel and connect with every bit…

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