A review by sashahc
The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas

adventurous funny lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

"Sunbearer Trials" by Aiden Thomas is about a totally chaotic but good hearted teenage semidiós (demigod) named Teo, the trans son of Quetzal.  He is a lesser powered semidiós, a Jade, so is shocked when he is picked for The Sunbearer Trials, a competition held every 10 years to replenish the power of the sun and prevent the evil obsidion gods from escaping captivity.  The winner carries light to the temples of Reino del Sol, but they must also sacrifice the loser to fuel the sun stones.  It's middle grade and chock full of queer and trans characters and goofy friendships.  Very fun read, and about once a month Z asks me if the next in the series is out yet.