The Sunbearer Trials
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.
“Only the most powerful and honorable semidioses get chosen. I’m just a Jade. I’m not a real hero.”
As each new decade begins, the Sun’s power must be replenished so that Sol can keep traveling along the sky and keep the chaotic Obsidian gods at bay. Sol selects ten of the most worthy semidioses 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 melted down to refuel the Sun Stones, protecting the world for another ten years.
Teo, a seventeen-year-old Jade semidiós and the trans son of the goddess of birds, isn't worried about the Trials . . . at least, not for himself. His best friend, Niya is a Gold semidiós and a shoo-in for the Trials, and while he trusts her abilities, the odds of becoming the sacrifice is one-in-ten.
But then, for the first time in over a century, the impossible happens. Sol chooses not one, but two Jade competitors. Teo, and Xio, the thirteen-year-old child of the god of bad luck. Now they must compete in five trials against Gold opponents who are more powerful and better trained. Worst of all, Teo’s annoyingly handsome ex-best friend and famous semidiós Hero, Aurelio is favored to win. Teo is determined to get himself and his friends through the trials unscathed―for fame, glory, and their own survival.
Aiden Thomas
Aiden Thomas is a name that’s quickly becoming synonymous with captivating, genre-blending tales that explore identity, love, and the supernatural. With a gift for weaving queer, Latinx, and fantastical elements into their stories, Aiden's work resonates deeply with readers who crave adventure, mystery, and authenticity. Born and raised in California, Aiden's life journey has been marked by a deep love for stories, both those written and lived. They blend their diverse cultural background with their passion for all things paranormal, creating worlds where magic, family, and self-discovery go hand in hand.
The Sunbearer Duology
The Sunbearer Duology consists of two books — considered a complete series. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.
