Review Detail

What I liked:
The Blood Trials is an N.E. Davenport sci-fi fantasy novel that follows Ikenna Amari, who is reeling from her grandfather's death and struggling under the weight of a secret that, if revealed, will blow up her whole world. If you recently read Fourth Wing, this will fit the bill for your book hangover, the same type of character fighting against the world to prove that she belongs and that what makes her unique is not a mistake. It is an asset.
Final Verdict:
This duology is a takedown, a high-stakes competition to belong in the elite ranks. There are jaw-dropping reactions, betrayals, and twists I did not see coming. The Blood Trails has everything you want in a gritty, dark fantasy, gritty competitions, brutal murders, an incredibly flawed main character, discussions of racism and systemic oppression, and the most incredible world-building I read in a while. I am excited to see what Ikenna will accomplish in the sequel.