The Mortal Trials

A new dark and spicy epic romantasy debut, perfect for fans of Shield of Sparrows and Rose in Chains.

Every decade, thirteen humans from the Isles of Tarlor are forced to compete in a series of challenges called the Mortal Trials. Hosted by the elven, each one is more dangerous than the last. If you lose, you're dead. But winning means immortality and everlasting glory - a feat only ever accomplished by one person.

Mistaken for someone else, Lirah is thrust into a foreign land to compete for her life. Survival won't be easy, but she's paired with a powerful mentor, Kilian Valhan, who is tasked with guiding her through the Trials.

Everything about Kilian is infuriating. He is brooding, intimidating and purposefully provoking. Even then, Lirah cannot deny the flame of attraction that burns bright between them.

The gods are stirring, and dark secrets will draw Lirah into the underbelly of elven conspiracy. And though enduring the Trials might tempt death, falling in love will prove fatal.

Author: Megan Shunmugam
Publisher: Angry Robot
Published: 07/14/2026
Pages: 304
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.60lbs
Size: 7.70h x 5.10w x 1.00d
ISBN13: 9781836730156
ISBN10: 1836730152
BISAC Categories:
- Fiction | Romance | Fantasy
- Fiction | Fantasy | Dark Fantasy
- Fiction | Fantasy | Epic

About the Author
Megan Shunmugam is a conflicts lawyer, based in Johannesburg, South Africa. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws. In her free time, she enjoys writing fantastical stories set in other worlds, featuring legendary creatures and epic love stories. Her favourite novels include The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, and The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. Her favourite movies include Van Helsing and Stardust.