The Crucible Trilogy by Abigail Owen

The Crucible Trilogy is a dark fantasy romance series that is inspired by Greek mythology. Contestants who are selected by the gods to represent them as their champion are forced into a deadly magical competition designed to test strength, intelligence, and endurance. Failure means death—or something worse. Each god designs specific trials that all contestants must participate in. As the trials grow increasingly brutal, the contestants must decide whether to trust one another or survive alone.

The novel leans heavily into power dynamics, morally grey choices, slow-burn romance, ambition, betrayal and shifting alliances. The Crucible explores what people are willing to sacrifice for power, freedom, and love.

Age Recommendation: Adult (18+)
This book contains violence, dark themes, mature content, and romantic elements intended for adult readers.

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The Crucible Series

Author: Abigail Owen
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Genre: Fantasy Romance, Mythological Romance, New Adult Fantasy
Years of Publication: 2024–2026
Total Books: 3
Series Status: Ongoing (final book pending)
Audiobook Narrator: Piper Goodeve and Tom Kiteley

**Books in The Crucible Trilogy (Order of Reading)**

The Games Gods Play (The Crucible Book 1, 2024) — Published on September 3, 2024, The Games Gods Play is the first installment in this series. It follows Lyra, a mortal woman, who is chosen by Hades to compete in the Crucible games.

Our Rating of This Book

The Things Gods Break (The Crucible Book 2, 2025) — The Things God Break is the second installment in this series and was released on October 21, 2025. It continues the story as the trials become harsher and Lyra faces new dangers while dealing with the conflicts with gods and Titans.

Our Rating of This Book (Pending)

The Wrath Gods Reap (The Crucible Book 3, expected Nov 17, 2026) — The final book of the trilogy; conclusion to the arc involving Lyra, Hades, and the gods’ competition.

Our Rating of This Book (Pending)