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Dark Perceptions #1
Ascend from the Shadows
Amaya Mevson had a plan to get her career back on track…
But it didn’t involve fighting draxis or learning she was a descendant of a lineage of magical high priestesses.
It didn’t involve being partnered with an insufferable playboy from Pointedelle.
It didn’t involve fighting social injustices, uncovering government conspiracies, or navigating the deceptive politics of the corporate world.
And it certainly didn’t involve suppressing her power’s compulsion, which demanded she seduce the mysterious foreign ambassador.
And yet.
The only way Amaya can ascend from the shadows of self-doubt is to learn to harness her inner strength and powers.
But it didn’t involve fighting draxis or learning she was a descendant of a lineage of magical high priestesses.
It didn’t involve being partnered with an insufferable playboy from Pointedelle.
It didn’t involve fighting social injustices, uncovering government conspiracies, or navigating the deceptive politics of the corporate world.
And it certainly didn’t involve suppressing her power’s compulsion, which demanded she seduce the mysterious foreign ambassador.
And yet.
The only way Amaya can ascend from the shadows of self-doubt is to learn to harness her inner strength and powers.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2023
88 people are currently reading
736 people want to read
About the author
Alexandra Larson
7 books24 followersAlexandra Larson is a business woman by day, romance author by night. When she’s not writing or reading, she's trying to soak up the limited amount of sun the northern hemisphere provides.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
October 10, 2023
4.5 stars
As soon as I finished this book, I immediately checked when the sequel is expected to release.
This is a fast-paced and action-packed urban fantasy with elements of fantasy romance; containing a powerful female lead and tropes like found family, secret powers, and fated mates. It also contains a love triangle which I personally do not usually enjoy, however I was a big fan of how it was written in this book.
Our main character has her struggles with mental health (particularly anxiety, panic attacks, self-doubt etc), and with the book being in the first person I felt that the writing was beautiful and tragic. I felt for her every step of the way and enjoyed her development especially with how realistic it felt in her learning to cope rather than just snapping out of it. The writing made it very easy to get attached to the character.
As a fan of the found family trope, I enjoyed how there were strong friendship aspects which added a lot of value to the story, with it not entirely being about the romance (although romance was certainly there), it's always great when there are more relationships to get invested in.
The only thing that stops this being a 5 is that I felt it took a little long for the story to get going, however I am aware that it is important for world building which is why it gets a 4.5!
Finally, there was something great about reading about a woman with a data science background, as well as her being in her mid-20s.
I am excitedly awaiting the next instalment of the series!
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
As soon as I finished this book, I immediately checked when the sequel is expected to release.
This is a fast-paced and action-packed urban fantasy with elements of fantasy romance; containing a powerful female lead and tropes like found family, secret powers, and fated mates. It also contains a love triangle which I personally do not usually enjoy, however I was a big fan of how it was written in this book.
Our main character has her struggles with mental health (particularly anxiety, panic attacks, self-doubt etc), and with the book being in the first person I felt that the writing was beautiful and tragic. I felt for her every step of the way and enjoyed her development especially with how realistic it felt in her learning to cope rather than just snapping out of it. The writing made it very easy to get attached to the character.
As a fan of the found family trope, I enjoyed how there were strong friendship aspects which added a lot of value to the story, with it not entirely being about the romance (although romance was certainly there), it's always great when there are more relationships to get invested in.
The only thing that stops this being a 5 is that I felt it took a little long for the story to get going, however I am aware that it is important for world building which is why it gets a 4.5!
Finally, there was something great about reading about a woman with a data science background, as well as her being in her mid-20s.
I am excitedly awaiting the next instalment of the series!
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
August 18, 2023
5 Stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Firstly, thank you, netgalley, for giving me this opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely devoured this book. It flows extremely well, leaving little crumbs of intruige and mystery from the first chapter, keeping you on your toes to find out what is going on. I constantly had theories, and while some of them came to light, some have yet to appear, and I am very much looking forward to the rest of the series.
A unique modern take on the fae which I adored. The story is told in 1st person POV. Amaya is a 25 year old female who is anxiously trying to repair her professional past by proving her worth.
Amayas character growth in just one book is just chefs kiss you really start rooting for her.
I absolutely loved the found family feel in this book.
"Amongst the booming bass and the singing girls and smell of alcohol, my heart felt full, like I'd found my place."
Spice 🌶🌶 2.5
Tropes, and things to note
•Found family.
•Secret powers.
•Fae.
•Interesting magical system.
•Political intruige.
•Shadow daddy 👀
•Angst.
•Great anxiety rep.
•Betrayal.
•Vulnerable but strong FMC.
"I am the only one who decides my worth. I am the only one who decides if I've done a good job. I am the only fucking one who can decide if I'm good enough".
Firstly, thank you, netgalley, for giving me this opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely devoured this book. It flows extremely well, leaving little crumbs of intruige and mystery from the first chapter, keeping you on your toes to find out what is going on. I constantly had theories, and while some of them came to light, some have yet to appear, and I am very much looking forward to the rest of the series.
A unique modern take on the fae which I adored. The story is told in 1st person POV. Amaya is a 25 year old female who is anxiously trying to repair her professional past by proving her worth.
Amayas character growth in just one book is just chefs kiss you really start rooting for her.
I absolutely loved the found family feel in this book.
"Amongst the booming bass and the singing girls and smell of alcohol, my heart felt full, like I'd found my place."
Spice 🌶🌶 2.5
Tropes, and things to note
•Found family.
•Secret powers.
•Fae.
•Interesting magical system.
•Political intruige.
•Shadow daddy 👀
•Angst.
•Great anxiety rep.
•Betrayal.
•Vulnerable but strong FMC.
"I am the only one who decides my worth. I am the only one who decides if I've done a good job. I am the only fucking one who can decide if I'm good enough".
August 31, 2023
Spicy New Adult Urban Fantasy
Fated Mates
Found Family
Amazing magic system
Secret Powers
Love Triangle
Amaya Mevson is a 25 year old who is enrolled in a program to receive her economic certification. She wants no one to know the reasons she needs the certificate as her past holds a secret that could close doors for her in the business world.
She is partnered up with the hot son of the mayor, Rien Astora, an arrogant playboy who is used to getting his way thanks to Daddy’s money and political influence, or so Amaya thought.
The two have a very rocky start, but the attraction between them is far too strong to resist and things heat up quickly between them.
While working on a project together regarding government housing projects, they discover that something sinister is afoot and they work together to uncover and put a stop to the corruption.
Amaya’s whole life changes when she is attacked by a draxis one night. She is saved by a gorgeous shadow wielding mystery man. It also becomes clear that Amaya has magical powers of her own, and when she is discovered by Gwen, a high priestess in training, she and her best friend Sloan take Amaya under their wing and train her to kick ass and teach her to control her power before she gets discovered.
This book is fast paced and action packed. It also deals with mental issues like extreme anxiety, crippling panic attacks and self-doubt.
This book is really good and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy, academia and a very powerful MFC.
The book ends on a cliff-hanger which will make you die for the next book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
A huge thank you to Netgalley for this e-arc.
Fated Mates
Found Family
Amazing magic system
Secret Powers
Love Triangle
Amaya Mevson is a 25 year old who is enrolled in a program to receive her economic certification. She wants no one to know the reasons she needs the certificate as her past holds a secret that could close doors for her in the business world.
She is partnered up with the hot son of the mayor, Rien Astora, an arrogant playboy who is used to getting his way thanks to Daddy’s money and political influence, or so Amaya thought.
The two have a very rocky start, but the attraction between them is far too strong to resist and things heat up quickly between them.
While working on a project together regarding government housing projects, they discover that something sinister is afoot and they work together to uncover and put a stop to the corruption.
Amaya’s whole life changes when she is attacked by a draxis one night. She is saved by a gorgeous shadow wielding mystery man. It also becomes clear that Amaya has magical powers of her own, and when she is discovered by Gwen, a high priestess in training, she and her best friend Sloan take Amaya under their wing and train her to kick ass and teach her to control her power before she gets discovered.
This book is fast paced and action packed. It also deals with mental issues like extreme anxiety, crippling panic attacks and self-doubt.
This book is really good and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy, academia and a very powerful MFC.
The book ends on a cliff-hanger which will make you die for the next book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
A huge thank you to Netgalley for this e-arc.
August 24, 2023
I read this book as an ARC on NetGalley, and I am absolutely in love. The plot and storylines give off ACOTAR and Crescent City vibes, but throw in academia. I LOVE a powerful female lead, and ADORE a shadowy morally grey character counterpart. I absolutely devoured this book in one afternoon, and need the second one to come out STAT.
The tones of mental health awareness (including anxiety, panic attacks, and depression) were truly meaningful and did not feel forced or misplaced. I felt like I was reading my own thoughts at some points, making me love Amaya all the more deeply. Found family, incredibly powerful female lead, enemies to lovers - this book has it all AND has my heart!
The tones of mental health awareness (including anxiety, panic attacks, and depression) were truly meaningful and did not feel forced or misplaced. I felt like I was reading my own thoughts at some points, making me love Amaya all the more deeply. Found family, incredibly powerful female lead, enemies to lovers - this book has it all AND has my heart!
August 4, 2024
Def gearing up as a good villain/ morally grey romance. Very excited for the second book
August 2, 2023
First, I want to thank NetGalley for this advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this read. Like, a lot. In Ascend from the Shadows we meet Amaya, a young woman who has traveled from her small suburb into the big bad city for her own personal redemption within the business world. But battling her anxiety and self doubt while earning her certificate won’t be the only thing she deals with as she meets High Priestesses (what those with Fae lineage are called in the city) who keep the city safe from dark forces, foreign political figures with things to hide, and hot men determined to be pig-headed assholes. When Amaya’s program project partners her with the awful Mayor’s sexy but prick of a son Rien to help the homeless of the city, they soon learn that there are darker plans at play as they work to solve the unjust crisis against those most vulnerable. Can Amaya learn to overcome her crippling sensitivity to rejection and accept herself as she is? Will she rise up to help the innocent who are under attack? Not sure because this story ends in a cliffhanger.
Im not going to lie, Ascend from the Shadows reads a lot like one of those free KindleUnlimited books. But in a good way. I wasn’t able to put it down and enjoyed my time immensely. It’s full of familiar and comforting tropes such as
-dislike to lovers
-opposites attract
-average girl gets unlimited powers
-love triangle
-Fated Mates
These tropes aren’t just thrown in but actually do help move the plot along and are fun to read and explore within the story. I would say that Ascend from the Shadows is a good read for anyone who has book hangover after reading anything from Sarah J. Maas, especially if they enjoyed the characters of ACOTAR but like the urban setting of her Crescent City novels.
There was also interesting mental health rep that I am still on the fence about. I didn’t mind it and felt that the anxiety attacks our main character experienced were very believable and described well, I have anxiety and have used some of the techniques suggested in the story. There was also talk about ‘highly sensitive people’ that I have my own opinions on and won’t go too far into detail except to say, I would have just rather it be called autism spectrum.
Now a few critiques. Parts of the story felt clunky, especially in the beginning. I would be starting to get into it and then the dialogue would just feel really forced or her reasoning for being angry was just weird. It didn’t feel very believable or relatable. For example, she has a great meet cute with a guy at a bar her first night in the city. Then finds out they will be partners on their certification project but he’s not happy with it and we don’t know why. Ok that’s good tension. But then she finds out he’s the Mayors son and suddenly because he’s rich and a known play boy he’s obviously awful and she hates him? Then he’s basically a celebrity and a ‘known playboy’ but also stays out of the media so there isn’t a lot to find out about him? It just didn’t feel fully fleshed out or believable. Is he a bad boy or not?
Then there’s the cliffhanger. I think this is probably the decision that makes it most feel like a free KU novel. Does it work? Yes. Am I happy about it? No. I will absolutely be begging to read Alexandra Larson’s second installment if it becomes available on NetGalley and will pick it up even if it doesn’t after the release but man, I wish this book was just longer and I could have kept reading the story right away.
In conclusion, fun and fast comfort read. Im fully invested in knowing what will happen next and will enjoy seeing the characters grow and the world building expand. I’ll suspend my disbelief for that hit of good old fashioned giddiness when reading a good romantasy.
I really enjoyed this read. Like, a lot. In Ascend from the Shadows we meet Amaya, a young woman who has traveled from her small suburb into the big bad city for her own personal redemption within the business world. But battling her anxiety and self doubt while earning her certificate won’t be the only thing she deals with as she meets High Priestesses (what those with Fae lineage are called in the city) who keep the city safe from dark forces, foreign political figures with things to hide, and hot men determined to be pig-headed assholes. When Amaya’s program project partners her with the awful Mayor’s sexy but prick of a son Rien to help the homeless of the city, they soon learn that there are darker plans at play as they work to solve the unjust crisis against those most vulnerable. Can Amaya learn to overcome her crippling sensitivity to rejection and accept herself as she is? Will she rise up to help the innocent who are under attack? Not sure because this story ends in a cliffhanger.
Im not going to lie, Ascend from the Shadows reads a lot like one of those free KindleUnlimited books. But in a good way. I wasn’t able to put it down and enjoyed my time immensely. It’s full of familiar and comforting tropes such as
-dislike to lovers
-opposites attract
-average girl gets unlimited powers
-love triangle
-Fated Mates
These tropes aren’t just thrown in but actually do help move the plot along and are fun to read and explore within the story. I would say that Ascend from the Shadows is a good read for anyone who has book hangover after reading anything from Sarah J. Maas, especially if they enjoyed the characters of ACOTAR but like the urban setting of her Crescent City novels.
There was also interesting mental health rep that I am still on the fence about. I didn’t mind it and felt that the anxiety attacks our main character experienced were very believable and described well, I have anxiety and have used some of the techniques suggested in the story. There was also talk about ‘highly sensitive people’ that I have my own opinions on and won’t go too far into detail except to say, I would have just rather it be called autism spectrum.
Now a few critiques. Parts of the story felt clunky, especially in the beginning. I would be starting to get into it and then the dialogue would just feel really forced or her reasoning for being angry was just weird. It didn’t feel very believable or relatable. For example, she has a great meet cute with a guy at a bar her first night in the city. Then finds out they will be partners on their certification project but he’s not happy with it and we don’t know why. Ok that’s good tension. But then she finds out he’s the Mayors son and suddenly because he’s rich and a known play boy he’s obviously awful and she hates him? Then he’s basically a celebrity and a ‘known playboy’ but also stays out of the media so there isn’t a lot to find out about him? It just didn’t feel fully fleshed out or believable. Is he a bad boy or not?
Then there’s the cliffhanger. I think this is probably the decision that makes it most feel like a free KU novel. Does it work? Yes. Am I happy about it? No. I will absolutely be begging to read Alexandra Larson’s second installment if it becomes available on NetGalley and will pick it up even if it doesn’t after the release but man, I wish this book was just longer and I could have kept reading the story right away.
In conclusion, fun and fast comfort read. Im fully invested in knowing what will happen next and will enjoy seeing the characters grow and the world building expand. I’ll suspend my disbelief for that hit of good old fashioned giddiness when reading a good romantasy.
September 3, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶🌶🌶/5
.
Enemies-to-lovers
Urban fantasy
Forced proximity
Found family
Love triangle
Secret powers
Political intrigue
Anxiety rep
Steam
Angst
.
“The power in your blood is the same as mine. We are sisters.”
Amongst the booming bass and the singing girls and smell of alcohol, my heart felt full, like I’d found my place. The indescribable thrill, not of drinking and singing and dancing, but of being with people who understood you, even if they didn’t know you. The feeling of belonging.
“You are not getting away until you tell me what happened and who I need to make disappear.”
“You have to have your own back. No piece of paper will ever be enough to make you feel capable if you don’t believe it yourself. People will still yell at you and complain about your work even after you get your cert.”
I am the only one who decides my worth. I am the only one who decides whether I’ve done a good job. I am the only fucking one who can decide if I’m good enough.
.
I really REALLY love this one! I’ve read the whole book in 6-ish hours and I was on the edge the whole time! There minor flaws that confused me a little which is the reason of missing 0.5 stars.
The story follows Amaya Mevson, a 25 years old data scientist who is enrolled in a program for a economics certification. She feels like she has to get a certification to increase her credibility due to some mistakes in her past. For her project she is partnered up with Rien Astora, the hot and arrogant son of the mayor. Although the two had a rocky start, things heat up rapidly. Amayas life take a sharp turn the night she got attacked by a draxis and kind of saved by a shadow wielder Sebastian which leads Amaya to discover her own powers, and discovered by Gwen. She and her best friend Sloan help Amaya to control her powers. The book gives Crescent City vibes and deals with anxiety and self-doubt. I strongly recommned this one! I can’t wait to read sequel!
I’m grateful for NetGalley and the author for the eARC in return for an honest review!
🌶🌶🌶/5
.
Enemies-to-lovers
Urban fantasy
Forced proximity
Found family
Love triangle
Secret powers
Political intrigue
Anxiety rep
Steam
Angst
.
“The power in your blood is the same as mine. We are sisters.”
Amongst the booming bass and the singing girls and smell of alcohol, my heart felt full, like I’d found my place. The indescribable thrill, not of drinking and singing and dancing, but of being with people who understood you, even if they didn’t know you. The feeling of belonging.
“You are not getting away until you tell me what happened and who I need to make disappear.”
“You have to have your own back. No piece of paper will ever be enough to make you feel capable if you don’t believe it yourself. People will still yell at you and complain about your work even after you get your cert.”
I am the only one who decides my worth. I am the only one who decides whether I’ve done a good job. I am the only fucking one who can decide if I’m good enough.
.
I really REALLY love this one! I’ve read the whole book in 6-ish hours and I was on the edge the whole time! There minor flaws that confused me a little which is the reason of missing 0.5 stars.
The story follows Amaya Mevson, a 25 years old data scientist who is enrolled in a program for a economics certification. She feels like she has to get a certification to increase her credibility due to some mistakes in her past. For her project she is partnered up with Rien Astora, the hot and arrogant son of the mayor. Although the two had a rocky start, things heat up rapidly. Amayas life take a sharp turn the night she got attacked by a draxis and kind of saved by a shadow wielder Sebastian which leads Amaya to discover her own powers, and discovered by Gwen. She and her best friend Sloan help Amaya to control her powers. The book gives Crescent City vibes and deals with anxiety and self-doubt. I strongly recommned this one! I can’t wait to read sequel!
I’m grateful for NetGalley and the author for the eARC in return for an honest review!
August 13, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
OMG, This book is so good. l’m starting with telling you if I had the chance to read this book in a one sitting session, I’d have done it. Ascend from the shadows is such a page turner. The plot is very original and I can’t wait to learn more about the rest of the world building.
I really love Amaya and I sometimes recognised myself in her (and cried with her because some parts really hit close to home). I know she is destined for great things in the next books.
What about the love interests? I have to be honest, at first I was Team Rien but I knew deep in my heart that I’m going to fall for the freaking shadow bringer. Fae with shadow power are my soft spot. So, BASH STAN HERE.
CAN’T WAIT FOR THE SEQUEL.
OMG, This book is so good. l’m starting with telling you if I had the chance to read this book in a one sitting session, I’d have done it. Ascend from the shadows is such a page turner. The plot is very original and I can’t wait to learn more about the rest of the world building.
I really love Amaya and I sometimes recognised myself in her (and cried with her because some parts really hit close to home). I know she is destined for great things in the next books.
What about the love interests? I have to be honest, at first I was Team Rien but I knew deep in my heart that I’m going to fall for the freaking shadow bringer. Fae with shadow power are my soft spot. So, BASH STAN HERE.
CAN’T WAIT FOR THE SEQUEL.
September 4, 2023
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to arcread this book. I really really enjoyed this book, It was a very different type of book then I was expecting and I really liked how original it was. There were twists and turns that I didn't expect and of course I enjoyed the love triangle and the romance present. My only issue was that some of the writing was very robotic and didn't flow smoothly. Overall though, I enjoyed it a lot and very excited for the next book!
August 10, 2023
I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion…
Ascend from the shadows is an exciting start to a series and I can’t wait to read the next book…if your looking for a fast paced book easy to read that still makes sense while having some spice then this book is for you..
Amaya is a well written character even with her anxiety putting her in crappy situations. I think it makes her more relatable although sometimes I found my self shaking my head like come on girl lol…I love a strong FMC who isn’t perfect
not big on love triangles but that’s only because I choose the guy I like and that’s it 🤷♀️ Definitely team Sebastian…
I would definitely recommend this book to a friend
Ascend from the shadows is an exciting start to a series and I can’t wait to read the next book…if your looking for a fast paced book easy to read that still makes sense while having some spice then this book is for you..
Amaya is a well written character even with her anxiety putting her in crappy situations. I think it makes her more relatable although sometimes I found my self shaking my head like come on girl lol…I love a strong FMC who isn’t perfect
not big on love triangles but that’s only because I choose the guy I like and that’s it 🤷♀️ Definitely team Sebastian…
I would definitely recommend this book to a friend
September 1, 2023
First off, thank you to the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to be an ARC reader.
I will say, I struggled a bit with this book. I really like the plot concept. I like the found family aspect and the slight love triangle. The idea of the fae having their powers dampened by the government. I did like Amaya as a character and loved Gwen and Sloane.
But I struggled to get through this book at times because it tended to feel really inorganic. The dialogue seemed unnatural and basic. The relationship development between characters, while it had its moments, lacked depth. Certain plot points felt built up, just to have no climax. A good example of this would be the networking Ball. I felt that they built up to this event, mentioning it multiple times, alluding to something interesting, dress shopping, etc. but then the ball came around and she merely saw the current love interest from across the room, and left after like 5 minutes. It was things like this that had the story feeling like it never quite reached its point. Got you interested or excited just to break it off right before the real event sometimes. There were oddnesses in the dialogue and MCs monologue that felt almost as if they were written by AI…like when she arrived at the friends apartment and her friend said “You are here!” Rather than “you’re here!”. I realize this sounds like such a small thing but it was exactly like this in every piece of dialogue. No contractions, overly formal speaking, unrealistic wording, and lacking real depth to conversations in some moments where I craved that depth.
I did enjoy some of the characters and I enjoyed the general concept of this story but the writing felt robotic and nondescript sometimes, as if someone were writing out the general story and meant to go back in later and add depth and description to some scenes but then forgot. At least some of the time. It had me struggling to really immerse myself in the world and connect with the characters.
There were a few things I loved about it, the strength of her character at times and the mystery throughout the story. I think the author has potential to write some amazing stories with amazing plot lines, but could use some work on organic dialogue and character relationships, and scene descriptions/world building. Would have loved to see this really fleshed out more. And I am definitely interested to see what happens in the next book! Will continue to give this series a chance as I do believe it has potential!!
I will say, I struggled a bit with this book. I really like the plot concept. I like the found family aspect and the slight love triangle. The idea of the fae having their powers dampened by the government. I did like Amaya as a character and loved Gwen and Sloane.
But I struggled to get through this book at times because it tended to feel really inorganic. The dialogue seemed unnatural and basic. The relationship development between characters, while it had its moments, lacked depth. Certain plot points felt built up, just to have no climax. A good example of this would be the networking Ball. I felt that they built up to this event, mentioning it multiple times, alluding to something interesting, dress shopping, etc. but then the ball came around and she merely saw the current love interest from across the room, and left after like 5 minutes. It was things like this that had the story feeling like it never quite reached its point. Got you interested or excited just to break it off right before the real event sometimes. There were oddnesses in the dialogue and MCs monologue that felt almost as if they were written by AI…like when she arrived at the friends apartment and her friend said “You are here!” Rather than “you’re here!”. I realize this sounds like such a small thing but it was exactly like this in every piece of dialogue. No contractions, overly formal speaking, unrealistic wording, and lacking real depth to conversations in some moments where I craved that depth.
I did enjoy some of the characters and I enjoyed the general concept of this story but the writing felt robotic and nondescript sometimes, as if someone were writing out the general story and meant to go back in later and add depth and description to some scenes but then forgot. At least some of the time. It had me struggling to really immerse myself in the world and connect with the characters.
There were a few things I loved about it, the strength of her character at times and the mystery throughout the story. I think the author has potential to write some amazing stories with amazing plot lines, but could use some work on organic dialogue and character relationships, and scene descriptions/world building. Would have loved to see this really fleshed out more. And I am definitely interested to see what happens in the next book! Will continue to give this series a chance as I do believe it has potential!!
August 23, 2023
4.5 stars! (rounded upto 5)
Firstly thankyou to netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.
I loved how the story dives straight in, there's no big world building or information overload and i love that! You learn about the world and the background as you read and go on a journey throughout. The story kept me on my toes and wanting more, Its one of those where you constantly have theories about who did what and what will happen next and each time i was equally surprised! I cannot wait for the second book to see what happens next and what excitement/growth is to come!
I loved the journey we go on with the FMC - Amaya and her inner growth. I also loveeee the girl gang around her. I also felt so much for her as I saw myself in some of her internal struggles with anxiety ect.
The story is 1st person POV and i thoroughly enjoyed it. I love the fae backgrounds and how we learn more and more during the story and i just know theres so much more to learn about! Also the LOVE INTERESTS... what?! Who are we routing for? I kept changing my mind throughout but the darkness draws me in...
Tropes;
Found Family
Secret Powers
Shadow Daddy....
Angst
Anxiety rep
Strong yet vunerable FMC
Im counting down the days for the next book... <3
Firstly thankyou to netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.
I loved how the story dives straight in, there's no big world building or information overload and i love that! You learn about the world and the background as you read and go on a journey throughout. The story kept me on my toes and wanting more, Its one of those where you constantly have theories about who did what and what will happen next and each time i was equally surprised! I cannot wait for the second book to see what happens next and what excitement/growth is to come!
I loved the journey we go on with the FMC - Amaya and her inner growth. I also loveeee the girl gang around her. I also felt so much for her as I saw myself in some of her internal struggles with anxiety ect.
The story is 1st person POV and i thoroughly enjoyed it. I love the fae backgrounds and how we learn more and more during the story and i just know theres so much more to learn about! Also the LOVE INTERESTS... what?! Who are we routing for? I kept changing my mind throughout but the darkness draws me in...
Tropes;
Found Family
Secret Powers
Shadow Daddy....
Angst
Anxiety rep
Strong yet vunerable FMC
Im counting down the days for the next book... <3
August 15, 2023
I want to thank both Booksirens and the author for generously providing me with an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
With genuine enthusiasm, I wholeheartedly embraced the narrative that unfolded before me! While there were a few continuity errors, I found myself readily forgiving them for the sheer enjoyment derived from the plot, characters, and the fragments of the world-building that graced these pages.
Our journey begins with Amaya, a spirited young woman who embarks from the confines of her suburban cocoon into the bustling cityscape, fueled by a quest for personal redemption in her line of business. Yet, amidst the tussle with her inner demons and insecurities, myriad complexities unveil themselves as she navigates the certification ordeal. Amidst all this, we had a 'meet-cute' of Amaya and Rien, who became the mayor's son and her research partner. They soon discover that the shadows cast throughout the story are more significant than anticipated, propelling them to pursue justice against the injustice targeting the high priestesses relentlessly. And then there's Sebastian, or Bash, a dark fae hottie to whom Amaya feels connected, no matter how much she hates it.
I very much enjoyed the characters in this story. I felt Amaya was very relatable with finding her confidence and stepping into her groove, but I also love the side of her that comes out when her power is being pushed to the forefront. It felt like Elena and Katherine from The Vampire Diaries in one character, and I very much enjoyed that. Rien, sometimes I loved him, and sometimes I just found him annoying, but I don't feel like he deserved the reaction received from Amaya, and I feel bad for the poor guy. Sebastian, or Bash, is just a sexy dark fae with shadow magic and daemati powers. I am someone who has gotten sick of the same character, the different fonts being written repeatedly in other books, but I very much enjoyed his character throughout the whole story and can't wait for more with him.
And that cliffhanger ending?! I loved it!
The pacing in this story was fast, and while there were parts of the story that I found clunky, I was hooked throughout the whole thing. I'll be honest, this is Larson's first book, and you can usually tell when it's an author's first publication because the writing tends to be more amateur, but it always gets better in future books as they perfect their penmanship. I noticed the clunkiness more at the beginning of this story, but as the plot kept moving, it got better and smoother. Overall, I find this book to be a solid read and would rate it a 3.5, but rounding up to 4 for Goodreads scaling.
With genuine enthusiasm, I wholeheartedly embraced the narrative that unfolded before me! While there were a few continuity errors, I found myself readily forgiving them for the sheer enjoyment derived from the plot, characters, and the fragments of the world-building that graced these pages.
Our journey begins with Amaya, a spirited young woman who embarks from the confines of her suburban cocoon into the bustling cityscape, fueled by a quest for personal redemption in her line of business. Yet, amidst the tussle with her inner demons and insecurities, myriad complexities unveil themselves as she navigates the certification ordeal. Amidst all this, we had a 'meet-cute' of Amaya and Rien, who became the mayor's son and her research partner. They soon discover that the shadows cast throughout the story are more significant than anticipated, propelling them to pursue justice against the injustice targeting the high priestesses relentlessly. And then there's Sebastian, or Bash, a dark fae hottie to whom Amaya feels connected, no matter how much she hates it.
I very much enjoyed the characters in this story. I felt Amaya was very relatable with finding her confidence and stepping into her groove, but I also love the side of her that comes out when her power is being pushed to the forefront. It felt like Elena and Katherine from The Vampire Diaries in one character, and I very much enjoyed that. Rien, sometimes I loved him, and sometimes I just found him annoying, but I don't feel like he deserved the reaction received from Amaya, and I feel bad for the poor guy. Sebastian, or Bash, is just a sexy dark fae with shadow magic and daemati powers. I am someone who has gotten sick of the same character, the different fonts being written repeatedly in other books, but I very much enjoyed his character throughout the whole story and can't wait for more with him.
And that cliffhanger ending?! I loved it!
The pacing in this story was fast, and while there were parts of the story that I found clunky, I was hooked throughout the whole thing. I'll be honest, this is Larson's first book, and you can usually tell when it's an author's first publication because the writing tends to be more amateur, but it always gets better in future books as they perfect their penmanship. I noticed the clunkiness more at the beginning of this story, but as the plot kept moving, it got better and smoother. Overall, I find this book to be a solid read and would rate it a 3.5, but rounding up to 4 for Goodreads scaling.
September 24, 2023
4.25/5 ****
4/5 World building | Characters 4/5 | 4/5 Plot | Romance 2/5 | Spice 3/5
My first time reading Alexandra Larson and I have to say, I really really enjoyed this book.
This book has so many things: FMC dealing with anxiety and self doubt, fated mates, a love triangle, hate-to-love relationships self redemption and of course spice. All of this surrounds a plot that is original and interesting in a world with a complex magic system and relationships between people with different types of magic.
In many ways I feel like this a very typical first novel in a series, setting the stage for so many things to come. So many things happening in the plot but there wasn't a deep exploration into some of these, so I am hoping they will be revealed in the next book. There was good suspense and build up with great tension between one of the two love interests. I liked Amaya as a main character but I wanted to know more about her backstory. I feel like we just know the very basics about her. But with the amount of anxiety and insecurities she has, it feels like there needs to be more in her past than just a professional screw up, but we never know more about it. So I didn't feel as connected to her as I would have liked.
The love interests Rein and Bash are both fantastic and I like them both for different reasons (although obv. #teamBash all the way). The steamy scenes were great ;) Also, I really enjoyed the bonus scene from Bash's perspective that you get when join the authors mailing list. I'm hoping these is more multi-POVs in the next novel.
I am not going to lie, it took me several tries to make real traction in this book. I think because it is a novel where there is so much happening and I was reading it close to bedtime and I wasn't able to follow along with all the information coming in. There are many aspects to the plot and sifting through them all late at night, was too hard for me Hahaha!
Overall, I really feel like this series is going be great and I can't wait to read the next one and see where the plot is heading!
4/5 World building | Characters 4/5 | 4/5 Plot | Romance 2/5 | Spice 3/5
My first time reading Alexandra Larson and I have to say, I really really enjoyed this book.
This book has so many things: FMC dealing with anxiety and self doubt, fated mates, a love triangle, hate-to-love relationships self redemption and of course spice. All of this surrounds a plot that is original and interesting in a world with a complex magic system and relationships between people with different types of magic.
In many ways I feel like this a very typical first novel in a series, setting the stage for so many things to come. So many things happening in the plot but there wasn't a deep exploration into some of these, so I am hoping they will be revealed in the next book. There was good suspense and build up with great tension between one of the two love interests. I liked Amaya as a main character but I wanted to know more about her backstory. I feel like we just know the very basics about her. But with the amount of anxiety and insecurities she has, it feels like there needs to be more in her past than just a professional screw up, but we never know more about it. So I didn't feel as connected to her as I would have liked.
The love interests Rein and Bash are both fantastic and I like them both for different reasons (although obv. #teamBash all the way). The steamy scenes were great ;) Also, I really enjoyed the bonus scene from Bash's perspective that you get when join the authors mailing list. I'm hoping these is more multi-POVs in the next novel.
I am not going to lie, it took me several tries to make real traction in this book. I think because it is a novel where there is so much happening and I was reading it close to bedtime and I wasn't able to follow along with all the information coming in. There are many aspects to the plot and sifting through them all late at night, was too hard for me Hahaha!
Overall, I really feel like this series is going be great and I can't wait to read the next one and see where the plot is heading!
August 25, 2023
I am so thankful that I was able to get an ARC for this from NetGalley because I super enjoyed this story.
Amaya started off stagnant and turned into this totally likeable character who I was routing for so much. I am all for the girl best friend trio that was created and the mystery surrounding the High Priestess club and magic.
Rein was a good boyfriend for her in the beginning, exactly what she needed and he helped her gain so much confidence and feel powerful. But then.....
I will always be rooting for the dark haired, handsome, shadow wielder and Sebastian fills all of those criteria. I like his role in their cert panel and how he keeps showing up.
I like the bits of magic thrown in, it wasn't overwhelming and it had elements of other stories, without feeling like it was the same thing we have seen and read before. I would love to have more of the back story and the history of the countries and the High Priestess group/The Fae. I think there is a lot there that we could unpack.
The villain was so sudden and unexpected, but a great twist. It was enjoyable for the story to focus on their cert time and accomplishments, while having this darker story so minimal in the back until it came forward. I am very excited for the second book to come out, even if it is just so we can get Amaya's reaction to Sebastian's last line....
Amaya started off stagnant and turned into this totally likeable character who I was routing for so much. I am all for the girl best friend trio that was created and the mystery surrounding the High Priestess club and magic.
Rein was a good boyfriend for her in the beginning, exactly what she needed and he helped her gain so much confidence and feel powerful. But then.....
I will always be rooting for the dark haired, handsome, shadow wielder and Sebastian fills all of those criteria. I like his role in their cert panel and how he keeps showing up.
I like the bits of magic thrown in, it wasn't overwhelming and it had elements of other stories, without feeling like it was the same thing we have seen and read before. I would love to have more of the back story and the history of the countries and the High Priestess group/The Fae. I think there is a lot there that we could unpack.
The villain was so sudden and unexpected, but a great twist. It was enjoyable for the story to focus on their cert time and accomplishments, while having this darker story so minimal in the back until it came forward. I am very excited for the second book to come out, even if it is just so we can get Amaya's reaction to Sebastian's last line....
September 16, 2023
Amaya is just trying to get her life together and her career back on track. But between discovering her newly emerging powers, training with her new fae friends in secret, dealing with her rich arrogant playboy group project partner, and dodging the mysterious shadow wielding man who seems overly interested in her, she's having a bit of a hard time.
I really enjoyed this book! Alexandra Larson has done an amazing job building the world, peppering just the right amount of traditional magic in with the urban fantasy style and putting an interesting twist on an academia setting. The modern take on fae is really refreshing and I hope to learn much more about the magic systems in the follow up book. The girls bond is established with such strength, it was really nice to see, as it's not always common in the romance genre to focus on these friendships as well as the love interests.
The romantic tension is great, and while I'm not usually a huge fan of a love triangle, this one doesn't feel too love-triangle-y. Plus, when one mmc is only seeing the anxious girl in front of him and trying to fix everything for her, saying things like "You're so fragile" and the other is seeing the powerful woman beneath, calling her "my little warrior" and saying things like "You don't need anyone to save you, do you?" - I think we all know who I'm rooting for.
I appreciated the focus on mental health rep in the book. Amaya is clearly suffering some serious anxiety and self doubt, but the self discovery journey she goes on is wonderfully empowering and full of growth.
"I didn't want you to fix it. I'm not a princess in a tower that needs you to save her from her emotions."
"I am the only one who decides my worth. I am the only one who decides whether I've done a good job. I am the only fucking one who can decide if I'm good enough."
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to be an arc reader and provide my honest review.
I really enjoyed this book! Alexandra Larson has done an amazing job building the world, peppering just the right amount of traditional magic in with the urban fantasy style and putting an interesting twist on an academia setting. The modern take on fae is really refreshing and I hope to learn much more about the magic systems in the follow up book. The girls bond is established with such strength, it was really nice to see, as it's not always common in the romance genre to focus on these friendships as well as the love interests.
The romantic tension is great, and while I'm not usually a huge fan of a love triangle, this one doesn't feel too love-triangle-y. Plus, when one mmc is only seeing the anxious girl in front of him and trying to fix everything for her, saying things like "You're so fragile" and the other is seeing the powerful woman beneath, calling her "my little warrior" and saying things like "You don't need anyone to save you, do you?" - I think we all know who I'm rooting for.
I appreciated the focus on mental health rep in the book. Amaya is clearly suffering some serious anxiety and self doubt, but the self discovery journey she goes on is wonderfully empowering and full of growth.
"I didn't want you to fix it. I'm not a princess in a tower that needs you to save her from her emotions."
"I am the only one who decides my worth. I am the only one who decides whether I've done a good job. I am the only fucking one who can decide if I'm good enough."
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to be an arc reader and provide my honest review.
August 27, 2023
4.5 Stars
Ascend from the Shadows is everything you want in an urban fantasy. The world building is set up right from the very beginning, and you find yourself immersed in the story immediately. While this is a new story all on its own, Sebastian, one of our MMCs, is very Nox Draven coded. Which, for me, is an absolute hit. Bash is my latest book boyfriend, and I can't wait to dive into the next installment of the story because OH BOY that cliff hanger! Amaya, our protagonist, finds herself constantly running into Sebastian at the most inopportune times while she is trying to navigate being in a new city and attempting to obtain her certification. I can't wait to see how popular this book gets because it's not only enthralling, but it checks every box you want. Strong FMCs? CHECK. Sexy MMCs? CHECK. Love triangle? CHECK. Enemies to lovers? CHECK. Magic? CHECK. Fae? CHECK. Secret powers? CHECK. and so much more! I am truly obsessed with this book and couldn't be happier that I don't have to wait a year for the next one!
The only reason this one is 4.5 stars for me and not 5 is because, while I enjoy Sebastian being similar to Nox Draven, there are aspects to this book that are a little too similar to The Bonds that Tie series for me. From the shadows having their own opinions on things, to the black eyes and those whose powers are separate entities. Don't get me wrong, I SALIVATED over that series, but I just didn't feel like I could give a full 5 stars for that one aspect.
Please note that I received an advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Ascend from the Shadows is everything you want in an urban fantasy. The world building is set up right from the very beginning, and you find yourself immersed in the story immediately. While this is a new story all on its own, Sebastian, one of our MMCs, is very Nox Draven coded. Which, for me, is an absolute hit. Bash is my latest book boyfriend, and I can't wait to dive into the next installment of the story because OH BOY that cliff hanger! Amaya, our protagonist, finds herself constantly running into Sebastian at the most inopportune times while she is trying to navigate being in a new city and attempting to obtain her certification. I can't wait to see how popular this book gets because it's not only enthralling, but it checks every box you want. Strong FMCs? CHECK. Sexy MMCs? CHECK. Love triangle? CHECK. Enemies to lovers? CHECK. Magic? CHECK. Fae? CHECK. Secret powers? CHECK. and so much more! I am truly obsessed with this book and couldn't be happier that I don't have to wait a year for the next one!
The only reason this one is 4.5 stars for me and not 5 is because, while I enjoy Sebastian being similar to Nox Draven, there are aspects to this book that are a little too similar to The Bonds that Tie series for me. From the shadows having their own opinions on things, to the black eyes and those whose powers are separate entities. Don't get me wrong, I SALIVATED over that series, but I just didn't feel like I could give a full 5 stars for that one aspect.
Please note that I received an advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
May 28, 2024
The way I RAN to the next book.
I was sucked in by how relatable Amaya is. Moving to a big city to seek academic validation while suffering imposter syndrome feels like Larson peeked into my life and decided to write a book about it (though I was never noticed by a mayor’s son or a big sexy fae).
The friendship between Amaya, Gwen and Sloane warmed my heart. It was refreshing to read this genre of fantasy book and not be slammed with 500 pages of romantic relationship building. Their friendship feels so true and genuine. I can’t wait to see how their friendship evolves in the next book.
Even though I just said it was nice to not be slammed with romantic relationship building, I also enjoyed the dynamic between Amaya and Rein. The tension was so real I was kicking my feet and giggling like an idiot while reading certain chapters.
That brings me to the character who was the main event for me, Sebastian. From the moment I read “covered in tattoos” I knew he would be my man. Even though the was in all of 5 chapters (probably more but i wasn’t counting) but i have a sneaking suspicion he’ll be in a few more in the next book. I can’t wait!
The only negative for me was that the first few chapters moved fast. It was worried the relationships would feel forced. On reflection those chapters felt like a baby deer taking its first steps and the rest of the book was perfectly paced.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I will be reading the whole series!
(Spice level because i know you’re skimming the reviews looking for it: 🌶️🌶️.5/5)
I was sucked in by how relatable Amaya is. Moving to a big city to seek academic validation while suffering imposter syndrome feels like Larson peeked into my life and decided to write a book about it (though I was never noticed by a mayor’s son or a big sexy fae).
The friendship between Amaya, Gwen and Sloane warmed my heart. It was refreshing to read this genre of fantasy book and not be slammed with 500 pages of romantic relationship building. Their friendship feels so true and genuine. I can’t wait to see how their friendship evolves in the next book.
Even though I just said it was nice to not be slammed with romantic relationship building, I also enjoyed the dynamic between Amaya and Rein. The tension was so real I was kicking my feet and giggling like an idiot while reading certain chapters.
That brings me to the character who was the main event for me, Sebastian. From the moment I read “covered in tattoos” I knew he would be my man. Even though the was in all of 5 chapters (probably more but i wasn’t counting) but i have a sneaking suspicion he’ll be in a few more in the next book. I can’t wait!
The only negative for me was that the first few chapters moved fast. It was worried the relationships would feel forced. On reflection those chapters felt like a baby deer taking its first steps and the rest of the book was perfectly paced.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I will be reading the whole series!
(Spice level because i know you’re skimming the reviews looking for it: 🌶️🌶️.5/5)
August 27, 2023
This book was an enjoyable fun read with certain parts that could have been glossed over. It is an urban fantasy where Amaya the FMC visits Delnee to get a certification in economics as she experienced some failures in her job.
I liked how Amaya is portrayed almost realistically with her having anxiety issues and judging her self-worth against other people's perception. Through her journey in Delnee she comes across High priestesses who instantly become her BEST friends through an encounter and are willing to help her conceal her powers. I found that a bit over the top and not so believable. Rien a potential love interest was well written and I look forward to see how his character develops in the next installment.
Forgive me and it may totally be because it is my favourite book, but I found Sebastian a version of Rhys with all the shadows and tattoos and smirking. He didn't have much word space but we know through the writing he will ending up becoming the central character.
My only hitch with the book was that it could have avoided some of the unnecessary additions and kept it more crisp. I therefore give this book 3.5 stars.
I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked how Amaya is portrayed almost realistically with her having anxiety issues and judging her self-worth against other people's perception. Through her journey in Delnee she comes across High priestesses who instantly become her BEST friends through an encounter and are willing to help her conceal her powers. I found that a bit over the top and not so believable. Rien a potential love interest was well written and I look forward to see how his character develops in the next installment.
Forgive me and it may totally be because it is my favourite book, but I found Sebastian a version of Rhys with all the shadows and tattoos and smirking. He didn't have much word space but we know through the writing he will ending up becoming the central character.
My only hitch with the book was that it could have avoided some of the unnecessary additions and kept it more crisp. I therefore give this book 3.5 stars.
I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 3, 2024
I love when I’m introduced to new indie authors and then I find out that she’s from my area which makes it even more exciting. I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the friendship that grew between Amaya, Gwen, and Sloane. I’m fascinated by the High Priestess and the Fae, i’m anxious to read and learn more about them in book 2 and to find out more about Amaya and what this means for her. I like Sebastian but I’m not quite sure how trustworthy he is. I think he’s protecting her but I’m not sure if it’s because he cares for her or something else. Rien was growing on me, Yes, he is spoiled but also controlled by his father. I felt how Amaya left things with him was not right but hopefully that gets resolved in book 2. The only thing I would say that I wanted more of is more world building, understanding the worlds more and the people who control them, how the separation happened and how the priestesses are controlled so much. I didn’t feel like I had enough details about those things. This is a great book from an indie author and I’m anxious to read book 2 and anything else she writes. At the end of the book you’re offered an extra in Sebastian‘s POV, loved that, I would really enjoy more in his POV.
February 21, 2024
"Who the f*ck did this to you?" His eyes contained no mercy.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Date finished: February 20, 2024
Read if you like:
🏙️ Urban fantasy
👨👩👦 Found family
🔒 Secret powers
🫶🏼 Love triangles
🗯️ Anxiety rep
🌶️ Spice
💭 This book is unlike anything I've read so far! I was intrigued and hooked from the very first chapter when our FMC, Amaya is dumped into the city to start her schooling and meets Rien, a handsome fellow-schoolmate and son of one of the richest men in the city.
The urban setting this takes place in is also something I really enjoyed. It's not too info-dumpy about the settings, history etc but at the same time you get the feeling that you're in a city. A city that can be dangerous, especially at night when the mysterious draxis come out to prey on unsuspecting citizens. Only high priestesses can banish the dark power of the draxis which Amaya finds out very quickly. As she struggles with her newfound powers she also struggles to fight her attraction to two different men. One of whom she isn't entirely certain isn't evil.
I didn't realize upon starting this that there would be a love triangle. I'm not usually a huge fan of that trope but the way this was done, I didn't mind it. I'm also very intrigued to read the next book due to the way this one ends 🤭
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Date finished: February 20, 2024
Read if you like:
🏙️ Urban fantasy
👨👩👦 Found family
🔒 Secret powers
🫶🏼 Love triangles
🗯️ Anxiety rep
🌶️ Spice
💭 This book is unlike anything I've read so far! I was intrigued and hooked from the very first chapter when our FMC, Amaya is dumped into the city to start her schooling and meets Rien, a handsome fellow-schoolmate and son of one of the richest men in the city.
The urban setting this takes place in is also something I really enjoyed. It's not too info-dumpy about the settings, history etc but at the same time you get the feeling that you're in a city. A city that can be dangerous, especially at night when the mysterious draxis come out to prey on unsuspecting citizens. Only high priestesses can banish the dark power of the draxis which Amaya finds out very quickly. As she struggles with her newfound powers she also struggles to fight her attraction to two different men. One of whom she isn't entirely certain isn't evil.
I didn't realize upon starting this that there would be a love triangle. I'm not usually a huge fan of that trope but the way this was done, I didn't mind it. I'm also very intrigued to read the next book due to the way this one ends 🤭
August 18, 2023
Ascend From The Shadows (Dark Perceptions Book 1) a new adult, sci-fi - fantasy romance.
Amaya an anxious young lady arrives in Pointedelle The Capital City from her small hometown to get her economics and government certificate. On her first night there she is attacked by a draxis which appeared from the cold dark mist filled street, she was saved by a high priestess (Fae Lineage) who then realises there is more to Amaya than shes aware.
Arriving at the Hastings Building the next day she is partnered with Rein the son of the mayor of Pointedelle there her project begins .....
I loved this book so much I flew through the pages I was very disappointed when it ended on a cliff hanger I want to know what happens next lol ....
This book has;
fae/human power
enemies to lovers
love triangle
fated mates
steamy scenes
I have nothing else to say but #Sebastian #teamsebastian #ascendfromtheshadows
Thank you to the author Alexandra Larson and Netgalley for the ARC in return for my honest review.
Amaya an anxious young lady arrives in Pointedelle The Capital City from her small hometown to get her economics and government certificate. On her first night there she is attacked by a draxis which appeared from the cold dark mist filled street, she was saved by a high priestess (Fae Lineage) who then realises there is more to Amaya than shes aware.
Arriving at the Hastings Building the next day she is partnered with Rein the son of the mayor of Pointedelle there her project begins .....
I loved this book so much I flew through the pages I was very disappointed when it ended on a cliff hanger I want to know what happens next lol ....
This book has;
fae/human power
enemies to lovers
love triangle
fated mates
steamy scenes
I have nothing else to say but #Sebastian #teamsebastian #ascendfromtheshadows
Thank you to the author Alexandra Larson and Netgalley for the ARC in return for my honest review.
September 17, 2023
Let me start by saying I never read romance fantasy, let alone books following the well worn path of a beautiful heroine finding out she has powers either never seen before or more powerful than anyone else, surrounded by gorgeous people falling over themselves to help her out, with the good and bad boy fighting over her favours. And if I had known this was exactly the premise of this book I would never have started it....
Luckily, I didn't know any of this before I started reading and I am very glad I went into this blind as it definitely changed my perception of this genre. Yes it did follow the usual trope but it was so well written and the world building was excellent so there was no way I was not finishing it. All the characters are so likeable, and the politics and the background 'noises' are fascinating.
I hope the next book in the series (and yes I am going to read it!) is a little darker and more complex as I am really enjoying the writing and storytelling...I think Alexandra and her romance fantasy are my new guilty pleasure 😏
Luckily, I didn't know any of this before I started reading and I am very glad I went into this blind as it definitely changed my perception of this genre. Yes it did follow the usual trope but it was so well written and the world building was excellent so there was no way I was not finishing it. All the characters are so likeable, and the politics and the background 'noises' are fascinating.
I hope the next book in the series (and yes I am going to read it!) is a little darker and more complex as I am really enjoying the writing and storytelling...I think Alexandra and her romance fantasy are my new guilty pleasure 😏
August 24, 2023
Creatively wonderful debut fae fantasy book. The world building was at a pace easy for the reader to digest and understand. Characters are interesting and likeable. The main female character undergoes a great transition and is helped by her 2 new fae friends. I loved seeing how their bond progressed throughout. As for the love interests, I absolutely love a triangle, sexual tension, enemies-lovers and spicy scenes. This book did not disappoint! I would have given the book 5 stars if there was a dual point of view, even if it was a bonus chapter. I'm really starting to enjoy reading dual POVs and getting an insight into the intricate minds of strong alpha male characters. The cliff hanger ending wasn't too bad, not overwhelmingly suspenseful and I anticipated the book would end like this. I'm not usually a fan of cliff hanger endings, purely due to having to wait foe the next one! I will certainly add the next book to my TBR list when it is released.
August 21, 2023
I admit this book drew me in from page one. I love watching Amaya grow and find her inner strength.
This book is full of intrigue and twists. Plus the world Alexandra created is so captivating.
I also liked that Alexandra stayed true to how things like anxiety, Depression, and panic attacks truly feel. As a parent to a child who lives with depression, I was very cautious about how the author would dedicate this, and am happy with how she wrote it.
This book is action-packed and moves quickly which I loved it kept me turning the pages. I was a little taken aback by the cliffhanger but totally understand the author was setting us up for book 2.
Overall, this book is wonderful. The world created is amazing, the characters are ones I want to know more about and the romance was spot on. I highly recommend this book and I'm excited to read the next installment.
This book is full of intrigue and twists. Plus the world Alexandra created is so captivating.
I also liked that Alexandra stayed true to how things like anxiety, Depression, and panic attacks truly feel. As a parent to a child who lives with depression, I was very cautious about how the author would dedicate this, and am happy with how she wrote it.
This book is action-packed and moves quickly which I loved it kept me turning the pages. I was a little taken aback by the cliffhanger but totally understand the author was setting us up for book 2.
Overall, this book is wonderful. The world created is amazing, the characters are ones I want to know more about and the romance was spot on. I highly recommend this book and I'm excited to read the next installment.
August 31, 2023
I honestly don't know what to do with myself, now that I've finished this story, while I wait for the next one in the series.
The subtle world-building, the entanglements, the tension -- just, chef's kiss. The author pays off early clue and reveals hidden complexities, lets people be imperfect and wondrous at the same time. I especially liked the way magic (and its varied manifestations) was incorporated into the story's power structure. I felt aching empathy with the characters on one page, and then hoped nobody in the room noticed me squirming my seat on another.
So, so invested. I want MORE.
Many thanks for including me on the ARC team! I treasure this complimentary copy of your book and hope your readers are many and delighted. (I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily)
The subtle world-building, the entanglements, the tension -- just, chef's kiss. The author pays off early clue and reveals hidden complexities, lets people be imperfect and wondrous at the same time. I especially liked the way magic (and its varied manifestations) was incorporated into the story's power structure. I felt aching empathy with the characters on one page, and then hoped nobody in the room noticed me squirming my seat on another.
So, so invested. I want MORE.
Many thanks for including me on the ARC team! I treasure this complimentary copy of your book and hope your readers are many and delighted. (I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily)
September 16, 2023
To repair her tarnished career, Amaya Mevson heads to Pointedelle for her certification to prove that she has what it takes for a career in economics. What she didn't expect was to be paired up with a local playboy, fight draxis, find out her true lineage and to find a true sisterhood in a pair of high priestess....all in a three month span!
Ascend from the Shadows has what you want from a fantasy; found family, spice, love triangle and a great cliff hanger! I would have wanted some more world building cause I feel like it was a little rushed.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who are fans of the fantasy genre already, or who are dipping in for the first time!
Thank you to @netgalley and the publisher for providing me an E-ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Ascend from the Shadows has what you want from a fantasy; found family, spice, love triangle and a great cliff hanger! I would have wanted some more world building cause I feel like it was a little rushed.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who are fans of the fantasy genre already, or who are dipping in for the first time!
Thank you to @netgalley and the publisher for providing me an E-ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2023
"I am the only one who decides my worth. I am the only one who decides if I've done a good job. I am the only fucking one who can decide if I'm good enough".
I absolutely devoured this book. I wasn’t able to put it down and enjoyed my time immensely. It’s full of familiar and comforting tropes: enemies to lovers, opposites attrack, love triangle and fated mates
Fun and fast comfort read. Im fully invested in knowing what will happen next and will enjoy seeing the characters grow and the world building expand.
I received an ARC for free, from booksprout and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I absolutely devoured this book. I wasn’t able to put it down and enjoyed my time immensely. It’s full of familiar and comforting tropes: enemies to lovers, opposites attrack, love triangle and fated mates
Fun and fast comfort read. Im fully invested in knowing what will happen next and will enjoy seeing the characters grow and the world building expand.
I received an ARC for free, from booksprout and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 27, 2023
I loved this book. Every second of it makes you think one thing will happen just for another event to throw you off. I was very surprised by how fast it pulled me in. It is a fast read since you wont be able to put it down. If you like Crescent City welcome to your next obsession, One "downside" (I use that term loosely in this review) it does end in a cliff hanger but have no fear the second book does have a release date which is December of 2023 as of today. The bonds that Amaya (mc) builds in the book feel natural and had me thinking of my own friends. I loved every second of the book and I can not wait for the second one Descend into the Void,
September 19, 2023
Firstly, thank you, Netgalley, for giving me this opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book, and absolutely devoured it!!! It's such an easy read, the story flows perfectly, keeping you on your toes. The urban fantasy world Larson created is extremely realistic, and, honestly, Amaya's growth and transformation from an insecure and scared girl to a BAD ASS woman is perfection! (Although it wasn't fair at all how she treated Rien at the end.........)
Thank God the next book comes out in just a few months, that cliffhanger at the end left me so giddy, I can't wait to read what comes next!
I loved this book, and absolutely devoured it!!! It's such an easy read, the story flows perfectly, keeping you on your toes. The urban fantasy world Larson created is extremely realistic, and, honestly, Amaya's growth and transformation from an insecure and scared girl to a BAD ASS woman is perfection! (Although it wasn't fair at all how she treated Rien at the end.........)
Thank God the next book comes out in just a few months, that cliffhanger at the end left me so giddy, I can't wait to read what comes next!
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