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Ascension #3
Ruled by Steel
Only a demon can save the souls in Hell.
Elise Kavanagh failed to prevent the Breaking, and now Hell is spilling onto Earth. She’s delved deep into the City of Dis in an attempt to stop the infernal armies–but even the legendary Godslayer is unprepared to face Dis’s fiercest demons, not to mention the responsibility of liberating the humans they’ve enslaved.
On Earth, rogue angel Nash Adamson is wing-deep in damage control after the Breaking, and his fellow angels don’t want to get involved. War is approaching the werewolf sanctuary. If Heaven won’t help them, he’ll have to turn to Hell for salvation.
Everything hinges on who can control the City of Dis. Elise and her allies have no choice but to rule by steel…
Elise Kavanagh failed to prevent the Breaking, and now Hell is spilling onto Earth. She’s delved deep into the City of Dis in an attempt to stop the infernal armies–but even the legendary Godslayer is unprepared to face Dis’s fiercest demons, not to mention the responsibility of liberating the humans they’ve enslaved.
On Earth, rogue angel Nash Adamson is wing-deep in damage control after the Breaking, and his fellow angels don’t want to get involved. War is approaching the werewolf sanctuary. If Heaven won’t help them, he’ll have to turn to Hell for salvation.
Everything hinges on who can control the City of Dis. Elise and her allies have no choice but to rule by steel…
391 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2013
57 people are currently reading
562 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Reine
114 books2,007 followersHi everyone! My name is Sara, and I write urban fantasy and paranormal novels as SM Reine. I collect swords, cat hair, and typewriters (which I do use for writing!). It's a good day when those three things have nothing to do with each other.
If you would like to know the instant my next book is available, you should enlist in my Army of Evil! We have a wicked cool secret handshake, but you'll have to sign up to learn it. ;) Check it out -- http://smarturl.it/armyofevil
If you would like to know the instant my next book is available, you should enlist in my Army of Evil! We have a wicked cool secret handshake, but you'll have to sign up to learn it. ;) Check it out -- http://smarturl.it/armyofevil
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
March 21, 2021
🖤 Elise Kavanagh Thou Art the Sunshine of Our Black Withered Hearts Buddy Reread (EKTAtSoOBWHBR™) with the MacHalos 🖤
Oh look, another Ascension installment I never took the time to review the first time I read it! What a bloody shrimping surprise indeed!
➽ And the moral of this reread is: ah, the relaxing, peaceful, blissful atmosphere of a holiday in hell! To think some people actually pay forsilly silent meditation retreats in exotic settings, when the lovely and most solicitous demon population of Dis is more than gleefully happy to graciously welcome all puny humans with open appendages of all sorts arms. And lock them up in kennels accommodate them in cozy, homely quarters. And starve them to near-death offer them deliciously nutritious food. And torture them treat them to luxurious aromatherapy massages. And plant their severed extremities in their gardens of hands introduce them to mindful gardening. And use their puny flesh to bind books give them free tours of the Palace of Dis library (the Library of Alexandria was a complete joke compared to this one, by the way. Not to mention that it didn't have a most cordial, goat-faced librarian). And finally, barbecue the fish out of them invite them to a Super Extra Fun Neighborhood Fiesta (SEFNF™) hosted by the Super Extra Chummy Locals (SECL™).
See what I mean?
Now if that isn't the most harmonious, soothing all-inclusive holiday ever, I don't know what is.
· Book 1: Sacrificed in Shadow ★★★★
· Book 2: Oaths of Blood ★★★★
· Book 4: Caged in Bone ★★★
· Book 5: Lost in Prophecy ★★★★★
· Book 6: Torn by Fury ★★★★★
· Book 7: Sins of Eden ★★★★★
· Book 8: The Second Coming ★★½
[June 2015]
Actual rating: 4.5
SM Reine's werewolves are pathetic drama queens but bloody hell, can she write demons. And Hell. And battles. And gore. Yum.
► Crappy review to come. Maybe. In a year or so.
Oh look, another Ascension installment I never took the time to review the first time I read it! What a bloody shrimping surprise indeed!
➽ And the moral of this reread is: ah, the relaxing, peaceful, blissful atmosphere of a holiday in hell! To think some people actually pay for
See what I mean?
Now if that isn't the most harmonious, soothing all-inclusive holiday ever, I don't know what is.
· Book 1: Sacrificed in Shadow ★★★★
· Book 2: Oaths of Blood ★★★★
· Book 4: Caged in Bone ★★★
· Book 5: Lost in Prophecy ★★★★★
· Book 6: Torn by Fury ★★★★★
· Book 7: Sins of Eden ★★★★★
· Book 8: The Second Coming ★★½
[June 2015]
Actual rating: 4.5
SM Reine's werewolves are pathetic drama queens but bloody hell, can she write demons. And Hell. And battles. And gore. Yum.
► Crappy review to come. Maybe. In a year or so.
July 9, 2020
3.5 Like always, a fun book (and really cheap to buy off Amazon, so definitely worth it!)
January 8, 2014
Ms Reine has rallied around her stories a pack of fans, we are not rabid, but we do love her books... :)
There are many reason I love the Ascension series: a convoluted plot, with an story overarching books and series, many characters whose lives interacts and mix, a strong, kick ass heroine at the cusp between humanity and Other.
Elise is fighting Hell, but also herself, since she's been transformed. She's angry most of times. But even if she's struggling with all the new responsibilities, she doesn't shy from them. She keeps helping people and feeling.
James is a villain I can relate. A full-rounded one, who does evil thinking it's good. Who has feelings, and you see them, but doesn't let them rule him. He's the kind of man you wish she could save and at the same time kill.
I love also her world-building, this world made with werewolves, angels and devils (and you really don't know who's worse), where there was a God in prison and he was killed.
The main reason I like Ms Reine's writing is the variety of types she creates. Elise and Rylies are almost opposite, and if you like one, you probably don't like the other. Here's a writer whose heroines aren't ever a single stereotype, like I often found in other authors (who seem to write the same woman with different props).
Arc courtesy of author
There are many reason I love the Ascension series: a convoluted plot, with an story overarching books and series, many characters whose lives interacts and mix, a strong, kick ass heroine at the cusp between humanity and Other.
Elise is fighting Hell, but also herself, since she's been transformed. She's angry most of times. But even if she's struggling with all the new responsibilities, she doesn't shy from them. She keeps helping people and feeling.
James is a villain I can relate. A full-rounded one, who does evil thinking it's good. Who has feelings, and you see them, but doesn't let them rule him. He's the kind of man you wish she could save and at the same time kill.
I love also her world-building, this world made with werewolves, angels and devils (and you really don't know who's worse), where there was a God in prison and he was killed.
The main reason I like Ms Reine's writing is the variety of types she creates. Elise and Rylies are almost opposite, and if you like one, you probably don't like the other. Here's a writer whose heroines aren't ever a single stereotype, like I often found in other authors (who seem to write the same woman with different props).
Arc courtesy of author
October 25, 2013
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sigh. James and Elise. I love these characters to death. This book was such a good read and I’m desperate for more. There was a healthy dose of action, mystery, and a smidge of hope (enough to keep me in my blissfully romantic world where Elise and James finally find common ground again).
This story followed mostly Elise, Nash, and a little bit of James. Sigh – I love James. Elise is trying to fix the horrible state that things were left at the end of the last book. While certainly not a straightforward hero, Elise is always taking on seemingly impossible tasks that no one else can handle. She is the ultimate in tough chick heroines and just keeps getting more powerful as the series moves along. James, on the other hand, straddles the line between hero and villain. Yes, he has done and will probably continue to do some truly horrible things, but he usually does them for some truly amazing reasons. His magic ties him to Elise and because of that, all of her heroic deeds need him. Watching him come to the aid of the anti-damsel in distress just makes my heart go all aflutter. I’ll be rooting for them until they are both dead (for real).
We also saw a lot of backstory for some other characters in this book. I was glad to see where some of my favorites ended up. I still hate Anthony. Everything he does makes me hate him more. I am growing more fond of Elise’s “crew” with each passing book. Nash was an interesting character to follow around for a bit, and was a nice breath of fresh air compared to the turmoil and general unhappiness of all the other characters at the sanctuary. I am also happy that we touched base again about why James is doing his crazy deeds. Have I mentioned how much I love James?
These books are so well written and highly addictive that I don’t know how I could have survived without them. Starting these books is like putting on your favorite PJs (even if they are a little scratchy from time to time). The characters are so well developed and interesting that I hope these series and spinoffs never end.
Sigh. James and Elise. I love these characters to death. This book was such a good read and I’m desperate for more. There was a healthy dose of action, mystery, and a smidge of hope (enough to keep me in my blissfully romantic world where Elise and James finally find common ground again).
This story followed mostly Elise, Nash, and a little bit of James. Sigh – I love James. Elise is trying to fix the horrible state that things were left at the end of the last book. While certainly not a straightforward hero, Elise is always taking on seemingly impossible tasks that no one else can handle. She is the ultimate in tough chick heroines and just keeps getting more powerful as the series moves along. James, on the other hand, straddles the line between hero and villain. Yes, he has done and will probably continue to do some truly horrible things, but he usually does them for some truly amazing reasons. His magic ties him to Elise and because of that, all of her heroic deeds need him. Watching him come to the aid of the anti-damsel in distress just makes my heart go all aflutter. I’ll be rooting for them until they are both dead (for real).
We also saw a lot of backstory for some other characters in this book. I was glad to see where some of my favorites ended up. I still hate Anthony. Everything he does makes me hate him more. I am growing more fond of Elise’s “crew” with each passing book. Nash was an interesting character to follow around for a bit, and was a nice breath of fresh air compared to the turmoil and general unhappiness of all the other characters at the sanctuary. I am also happy that we touched base again about why James is doing his crazy deeds. Have I mentioned how much I love James?
These books are so well written and highly addictive that I don’t know how I could have survived without them. Starting these books is like putting on your favorite PJs (even if they are a little scratchy from time to time). The characters are so well developed and interesting that I hope these series and spinoffs never end.
October 30, 2013
*stares at everyone* Guys, it took me a week after reading this book to get my thoughts in order. Basically, every book in this series blows my mind just a little more. SO MUCH happens and it's fantastic and fabulous and some other F words that make me look all crazy-eyed. In a good way, of course.
Elise feels like she's grown a lot since the early books. She takes responsibility for the enslaved humans, although she REALLY doesn't want to. That's not to say she would have left them to die before, but she would have freed them and moved along without stopping to think about what would happen to them. Now, it's on her to keep them alive in Dis and she does it. Whether this is Eve's influence or simply Elise growing into herself and her power a little more, I don't know. But I think it makes for an interesting contrast in her personality.
Meanwhile, James is growing on me. Again. While his motivations have never been a secret, I found myself a little more sympathetic to him with this book as we got to see what's been driving him. Honestly, I *like* the guy. I have since the beginning. He's a little off the rails at times and his endgame could end up hurting a lot of people, but he's doing it for his son and I GET THAT. Some of his actions seem so terribly mercenary but there are these flashes of loneliness that come through that just slay me.
Nash, the werewolves, the divide between Rylie and Abel... *flails*. I'm SO looking forward to the next book. THINGS ARE HAPPENING! I like things!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Elise feels like she's grown a lot since the early books. She takes responsibility for the enslaved humans, although she REALLY doesn't want to. That's not to say she would have left them to die before, but she would have freed them and moved along without stopping to think about what would happen to them. Now, it's on her to keep them alive in Dis and she does it. Whether this is Eve's influence or simply Elise growing into herself and her power a little more, I don't know. But I think it makes for an interesting contrast in her personality.
Meanwhile, James is growing on me. Again. While his motivations have never been a secret, I found myself a little more sympathetic to him with this book as we got to see what's been driving him. Honestly, I *like* the guy. I have since the beginning. He's a little off the rails at times and his endgame could end up hurting a lot of people, but he's doing it for his son and I GET THAT. Some of his actions seem so terribly mercenary but there are these flashes of loneliness that come through that just slay me.
Nash, the werewolves, the divide between Rylie and Abel... *flails*. I'm SO looking forward to the next book. THINGS ARE HAPPENING! I like things!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
July 19, 2016
2.5 stars
I had really high hopes for this author when I read her Descent series, but they are slowly plummeting into oblivion while reading this series. Let's begin with the problem of recognising who the protagonist is. Exactly. We can't tell anymore. She's got so many characters vying for attention that we only know it's supposed to be Elise because she's on the cover.
Her plot is starting to degrade too. She's added scenes that do no part in progressing the story forward. What do those little scenes in the werewolf pack have anything to do with fixing the already open gate of hell? The werewolves are not the protagonists. This is Elise's story. For example, she's added private scenes between Summer and Nash. As cozy as those scenes are, they do nothing for the plot. My message to the author is to regroup and find your focus again. I understand that the author loves her werewolf pack creation. She's put time and effort into developing their characters and pack dynamic, but they already have their own series where we can read about their relationships. I know I'm repeating myself, but refocus on who the main character is and whose story is being told.
Other authors who've had character crossovers between their series don't have the focus, the limelight, being stolen from the protagonist by the visiting characters from other series. The visiting characters are carefully integrated so that the protagonists are still the main focus. There is so much that can be explored with Elise's character, there is no need to bring in the POVs from outside characters to "spice up" the story. That's all I'll say about this matter.
Moving on to other aspects of the story, it was mainly violence. What the descent series had was sarcasm and wit that followed the protagonist. There wasn't any of that here. It left the story unbalanced. Furthermore, with the focus taken away from the protagonist, there was a sense of estrangement, and I didn't connect with the main character.
I hope the next book does better. I've seen the author do better, so she has the skill. Now the question that stands is "will she live up to her skill?"
I had really high hopes for this author when I read her Descent series, but they are slowly plummeting into oblivion while reading this series. Let's begin with the problem of recognising who the protagonist is. Exactly. We can't tell anymore. She's got so many characters vying for attention that we only know it's supposed to be Elise because she's on the cover.
Her plot is starting to degrade too. She's added scenes that do no part in progressing the story forward. What do those little scenes in the werewolf pack have anything to do with fixing the already open gate of hell? The werewolves are not the protagonists. This is Elise's story. For example, she's added private scenes between Summer and Nash. As cozy as those scenes are, they do nothing for the plot. My message to the author is to regroup and find your focus again. I understand that the author loves her werewolf pack creation. She's put time and effort into developing their characters and pack dynamic, but they already have their own series where we can read about their relationships. I know I'm repeating myself, but refocus on who the main character is and whose story is being told.
Other authors who've had character crossovers between their series don't have the focus, the limelight, being stolen from the protagonist by the visiting characters from other series. The visiting characters are carefully integrated so that the protagonists are still the main focus. There is so much that can be explored with Elise's character, there is no need to bring in the POVs from outside characters to "spice up" the story. That's all I'll say about this matter.
Moving on to other aspects of the story, it was mainly violence. What the descent series had was sarcasm and wit that followed the protagonist. There wasn't any of that here. It left the story unbalanced. Furthermore, with the focus taken away from the protagonist, there was a sense of estrangement, and I didn't connect with the main character.
I hope the next book does better. I've seen the author do better, so she has the skill. Now the question that stands is "will she live up to her skill?"
November 2, 2013
Wow. I had to wait a few days after reading this installment to come down from my book hangover to write a review that wasn't just what...no....yes!...WHAT? Yea, I had to pull my self together first.
First off way to start a story! Opens right up into Elsie action. This story focuses on Elsie more than Rylie. Rylie is defiantly still there, (Let's face it, after the way the last story ended it pretty much demanded she was here somewhere.) but she takes less of the story line than in the previous books.
Elsie is more human now as a demon than I feel she was as a human. She feels more & grows even more in this book. She leans on others and depends on them to get things done. Don't get me wrong, she is still a kick ass bitch that nobody should fuck with. But she realized the need for the help and uses it. She also does things for her friends that she may have not been so open to in the past. This includes opening herself up to James.
I must say, I'm pulling for James and Elsie in the long run. I've been anti team James since he went off the deep end, but you get to learn more about him in this book and you get glimpses of his feeling that he tries to bury. So I'm going on record as Team James. On that note, What the Hell Anthony?!?!?!
OMG! He comes back! And then he leaves her again. I'm not talking about James or Anthony. You will have to read it to find out who. ;)
The ending...you're killing me here Sara! Can you write any faster?? I really love how Sara ties up the story without leaving it as a cliffhanger, but leaves you anxiously anticipating the next book. Seriously, I need to know what happens with Abel, Seth & James, like yesterday!!
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
First off way to start a story! Opens right up into Elsie action. This story focuses on Elsie more than Rylie. Rylie is defiantly still there, (Let's face it, after the way the last story ended it pretty much demanded she was here somewhere.) but she takes less of the story line than in the previous books.
Elsie is more human now as a demon than I feel she was as a human. She feels more & grows even more in this book. She leans on others and depends on them to get things done. Don't get me wrong, she is still a kick ass bitch that nobody should fuck with. But she realized the need for the help and uses it. She also does things for her friends that she may have not been so open to in the past. This includes opening herself up to James.
I must say, I'm pulling for James and Elsie in the long run. I've been anti team James since he went off the deep end, but you get to learn more about him in this book and you get glimpses of his feeling that he tries to bury. So I'm going on record as Team James. On that note, What the Hell Anthony?!?!?!
OMG! He comes back! And then he leaves her again. I'm not talking about James or Anthony. You will have to read it to find out who. ;)
The ending...you're killing me here Sara! Can you write any faster?? I really love how Sara ties up the story without leaving it as a cliffhanger, but leaves you anxiously anticipating the next book. Seriously, I need to know what happens with Abel, Seth & James, like yesterday!!
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
December 13, 2019
First book in this series to get 5 stars. Until now, it was all 4 Stars because of werewolves.
Does that mean that this book doesn't have werewolves ?
Unfortunately No, but Elise is so so Fabulous that all that werewolf crap can be overlooked like its gone-shadowed! Hehe...
Off to the next...
Does that mean that this book doesn't have werewolves ?
Unfortunately No, but Elise is so so Fabulous that all that werewolf crap can be overlooked like its gone-shadowed! Hehe...
Off to the next...
March 23, 2014
Disclaimer: I was given this ebook by the author for an honest review.
Let me take a side step from the review to talk about Moon Reader Pro. Most books I read nowadays are read on my Second Generation Kindle with text-to-speech. I have a newer Kindle but the TST is not as human sounding. When I get an ebook that isn't for the Kindle (Yes, I know I can move the book into Kindle manually, by Calibre, or by sending as email but I'm lazy) I usually open it in Moon Reader Pro. I love this program because of all the features. If you don't need the TST but would like to challenge your reading speed you can set that and a line keeps you on track. Even the TST can be speeded up or slowed down much more incrementally than on Kindle. You can have your choice of voices, but they are both rather tinny. Even so there is a bit of emotion added to the voice that keeps the story moving. Another feature is the time left in the book and chapter according to the current reading speed. By the way, MRP is an app you can get from Amazon for a small fee. There is a free version, but I liked it so much I went for the full, and it works for Fire, my Android phone and my Tablet, so I am never without a book that can read to me. And the MRP highlights the part it is reading unlike the Kindle.
Okay, back to the book. So I was reading it on my Tablet. The tinny voice going while I'm crocheting, but I wasn't getting much out of it as a listener. I put away my project and pulled myself into the story, fully paying attention. Even so, I found the first chapter or so boring. I don't know why. Maybe being left with such horrid outcomes in the last book? But, truth be told, I think the author was screwing with the reader here. She allowed a calm before the storm, so to speak. Because once this story got under way, it soared! I couldn't stop reading! And here is where MRP comes in. At the most exciting part I was being told that I had two more hours left in the book. It was midnight. 2:00 AM is a decent bedtime for me. BUT not after this book! I couldn't sleep after I was finished because I was SO excited I couldn't settle down for a few more hours. SO advice: don't read this before going to sleep!
I was happy that the pack and the angels got involved in this book. I liked all the characters and their interactions. If you have followed my reviews from the beginning of SM Reine's books, you may have noticed that I wasn't fond of werewolves or demons or angel stories. Ms. Reine changed all that. They are now characters as real as humans in my reading diet. I suppose vampires are next since I don't like those much. We'll see. (Confession: I love Vampire Diaries on TV, and I loved Moonlight so...)
Anyway, this book was an all out war with everyone taking hits from every side. It was personal and in your face. Even now as I am into the next book the battles are still raging in my head, as are the questions I dare not speak for 'Spoilers'. I hope answers are forth coming. I am in this world and can't leave until I am caught up with Sara's writing. That is how gripping her books are. Start reading them with the Seasons of the Moon series, then Cain Chronicles, then Descent, then Ascent and woops! There is a new one, Preternatural Affairs. Ms. Reine needs to stop writing so I can catch up! :-) Meanwhile, those of you that haven't started yet, you are in for an adventure that doesn't stop! Enjoy!
Let me take a side step from the review to talk about Moon Reader Pro. Most books I read nowadays are read on my Second Generation Kindle with text-to-speech. I have a newer Kindle but the TST is not as human sounding. When I get an ebook that isn't for the Kindle (Yes, I know I can move the book into Kindle manually, by Calibre, or by sending as email but I'm lazy) I usually open it in Moon Reader Pro. I love this program because of all the features. If you don't need the TST but would like to challenge your reading speed you can set that and a line keeps you on track. Even the TST can be speeded up or slowed down much more incrementally than on Kindle. You can have your choice of voices, but they are both rather tinny. Even so there is a bit of emotion added to the voice that keeps the story moving. Another feature is the time left in the book and chapter according to the current reading speed. By the way, MRP is an app you can get from Amazon for a small fee. There is a free version, but I liked it so much I went for the full, and it works for Fire, my Android phone and my Tablet, so I am never without a book that can read to me. And the MRP highlights the part it is reading unlike the Kindle.
Okay, back to the book. So I was reading it on my Tablet. The tinny voice going while I'm crocheting, but I wasn't getting much out of it as a listener. I put away my project and pulled myself into the story, fully paying attention. Even so, I found the first chapter or so boring. I don't know why. Maybe being left with such horrid outcomes in the last book? But, truth be told, I think the author was screwing with the reader here. She allowed a calm before the storm, so to speak. Because once this story got under way, it soared! I couldn't stop reading! And here is where MRP comes in. At the most exciting part I was being told that I had two more hours left in the book. It was midnight. 2:00 AM is a decent bedtime for me. BUT not after this book! I couldn't sleep after I was finished because I was SO excited I couldn't settle down for a few more hours. SO advice: don't read this before going to sleep!
I was happy that the pack and the angels got involved in this book. I liked all the characters and their interactions. If you have followed my reviews from the beginning of SM Reine's books, you may have noticed that I wasn't fond of werewolves or demons or angel stories. Ms. Reine changed all that. They are now characters as real as humans in my reading diet. I suppose vampires are next since I don't like those much. We'll see. (Confession: I love Vampire Diaries on TV, and I loved Moonlight so...)
Anyway, this book was an all out war with everyone taking hits from every side. It was personal and in your face. Even now as I am into the next book the battles are still raging in my head, as are the questions I dare not speak for 'Spoilers'. I hope answers are forth coming. I am in this world and can't leave until I am caught up with Sara's writing. That is how gripping her books are. Start reading them with the Seasons of the Moon series, then Cain Chronicles, then Descent, then Ascent and woops! There is a new one, Preternatural Affairs. Ms. Reine needs to stop writing so I can catch up! :-) Meanwhile, those of you that haven't started yet, you are in for an adventure that doesn't stop! Enjoy!
July 31, 2020
Hooked
This urban fantasy series has me hooked. I read the Descent series first and would reccomend that to anyone wanting to read this series. The other series set in the same world and some shared characters are less important.
This universe has me gripped from the start. A new angle on creation and the roles of Man, angels and demons. The story rolls on and the varied protagonists are all scarred in some way by the events. They take sides and some push forward their game pieces and others just react to the moves.
Give these books a go. Read them in order, this is in the middle of the Ascent series and not much will make sense without the context of the surrounding story arc. SM Reine doesn't round up the previous story in each sequel, for which I am thankful, so reading the books out of sequence isnt ideal.
This urban fantasy series has me hooked. I read the Descent series first and would reccomend that to anyone wanting to read this series. The other series set in the same world and some shared characters are less important.
This universe has me gripped from the start. A new angle on creation and the roles of Man, angels and demons. The story rolls on and the varied protagonists are all scarred in some way by the events. They take sides and some push forward their game pieces and others just react to the moves.
Give these books a go. Read them in order, this is in the middle of the Ascent series and not much will make sense without the context of the surrounding story arc. SM Reine doesn't round up the previous story in each sequel, for which I am thankful, so reading the books out of sequence isnt ideal.
March 7, 2015
Can't thank Sara enough for sending me an advanced copy of this book, to read and review! I'm excited to begin this tonight!
This Series, The Descent Series, has had me from the start! Which I might add was Free on Bookbub.com! I have read everyone available since then! They have always been minimally priced so I didn't feel guilty with my obsession to keep reading one. Author! I went back and read the Moon Series, which then interact with each other into this Ascension Series. I don't know if this has been done before, but it has worked out nicely, haha, with these two very different lead characters!
So, off I go to spend the evening with Elise, James and the other Angels, demons, demon killers, and werewolves to find out what atmosphere they land in!
This Series, The Descent Series, has had me from the start! Which I might add was Free on Bookbub.com! I have read everyone available since then! They have always been minimally priced so I didn't feel guilty with my obsession to keep reading one. Author! I went back and read the Moon Series, which then interact with each other into this Ascension Series. I don't know if this has been done before, but it has worked out nicely, haha, with these two very different lead characters!
So, off I go to spend the evening with Elise, James and the other Angels, demons, demon killers, and werewolves to find out what atmosphere they land in!
February 21, 2021
*****Spoilers*****
Action and plots collide but the full puzzle hasn't come together yet. I'm guessing it'll be revealed slowly over the course of the series. Elise returns to Hell and takes down Aquiel, one of three administrators of Hell's Palace with the help of James. James who I still don't understand what he's doing outside of trying to get his son back which was his goal ending three books ago. That he mentions being able to bring Seth back at the end of this book makes me believe there's something he still needs from Seth but I'm not sure what that is. Abel, who is Seth's brother is on board I'm sure though for me, I'm still a little uncomfortable with the three Rylie, Abel, and Seth given the history they share. We'll see though.
What Elise's future will look like I'm sure will be more battles, especially since Belphegor who was the emotionless torturer in Hell escaped with Heavenly artifacts while Elise was fighting to save the Palace and bridge from Hell to Earth from being a gateway to allow an invasion. It makes me wonder though why Elise hasn't used her blood to close the fissures that Abraxas opened. Elise fought hard to remain detached but ended up caring more in this book towards the end than she has in other books in the series. That she worked with Neuma and Jerica to free some of the slaves in Hell I think went a long way to humanize Elise a little more. Up until then, it was getting harder to root for her when she was so cold to those around her. That she and James are similar makes me understand more after reading this one that they're really perfect for one another, especially since it's made clear that they'll fight but will come back together afterward. We'll see if that happens in the next books.
Nash, the angel we've seen a lot in this series has rallied the rest of the angel contingent and unfortunately it wasn't quick enough for them to retrieve the heavenly artifacts but at least Earth has them as allies now. I'd be shocked if another war wasn't on the horizon and mixed with James's desire to save his son, I think the purposes will collide in some way or ways.
Action and plots collide but the full puzzle hasn't come together yet. I'm guessing it'll be revealed slowly over the course of the series. Elise returns to Hell and takes down Aquiel, one of three administrators of Hell's Palace with the help of James. James who I still don't understand what he's doing outside of trying to get his son back which was his goal ending three books ago. That he mentions being able to bring Seth back at the end of this book makes me believe there's something he still needs from Seth but I'm not sure what that is. Abel, who is Seth's brother is on board I'm sure though for me, I'm still a little uncomfortable with the three Rylie, Abel, and Seth given the history they share. We'll see though.
What Elise's future will look like I'm sure will be more battles, especially since Belphegor who was the emotionless torturer in Hell escaped with Heavenly artifacts while Elise was fighting to save the Palace and bridge from Hell to Earth from being a gateway to allow an invasion. It makes me wonder though why Elise hasn't used her blood to close the fissures that Abraxas opened. Elise fought hard to remain detached but ended up caring more in this book towards the end than she has in other books in the series. That she worked with Neuma and Jerica to free some of the slaves in Hell I think went a long way to humanize Elise a little more. Up until then, it was getting harder to root for her when she was so cold to those around her. That she and James are similar makes me understand more after reading this one that they're really perfect for one another, especially since it's made clear that they'll fight but will come back together afterward. We'll see if that happens in the next books.
Nash, the angel we've seen a lot in this series has rallied the rest of the angel contingent and unfortunately it wasn't quick enough for them to retrieve the heavenly artifacts but at least Earth has them as allies now. I'd be shocked if another war wasn't on the horizon and mixed with James's desire to save his son, I think the purposes will collide in some way or ways.
May 11, 2017
This particular series I believe has a very large story arc that I am not exactly sure where it is going to end yet. However, at least in this particular book, Elise learned more about herself. She needed to learn about her powers.
There seemed to be a lot more of character growth all around even between her and James. The progression certainly went in a way I was not expecting but I like surprises.
I find it difficult to write critiques on series because I feel as it is just one great big book. I will be honest I have already read more past this book. Can't help it, I just keep reading cause I can't put it down. I love the series and I love the growth that happens with all the characters.
There seemed to be a lot more of character growth all around even between her and James. The progression certainly went in a way I was not expecting but I like surprises.
I find it difficult to write critiques on series because I feel as it is just one great big book. I will be honest I have already read more past this book. Can't help it, I just keep reading cause I can't put it down. I love the series and I love the growth that happens with all the characters.
April 4, 2022
I do like a strong female lead and this Ascension series sees Elise as determined as ever. She battles for what is right, and now, in Hell, she continues that mantra. The world is broken and Elise pursues the way to make things ‘right’.
I like the characters – good or bad – because villains are as entertaining as heroes, though I do enjoy ‘justice’.
This book is part of a box set I have and it’s filled with action – plenty of gore, which is ‘ugh’, but I particularly like how the thoughts and feelings make the characters ‘real’.
Battles galore, which can get a little repetitive, but it’s an engaging read.
Recommended.
I like the characters – good or bad – because villains are as entertaining as heroes, though I do enjoy ‘justice’.
This book is part of a box set I have and it’s filled with action – plenty of gore, which is ‘ugh’, but I particularly like how the thoughts and feelings make the characters ‘real’.
Battles galore, which can get a little repetitive, but it’s an engaging read.
Recommended.
February 21, 2020
Too static. Too much about
It was just OK. Certainly not my favorite of these. I skipped lots of battle paragraphs. And peoples' innermost thoughts. I don't need to read all that. And then a
Bored now.
Sorry to all you Reine lovers out there.
It was just OK. Certainly not my favorite of these. I skipped lots of battle paragraphs. And peoples' innermost thoughts. I don't need to read all that. And then a
Bored now.
Sorry to all you Reine lovers out there.
March 25, 2021
Mucho infierno
No me copa que ahora se quede ahí.
Me estoy dando cuenta he hay muchos personajes que no me gustan. No me bancaria leer los anteriores.
LPM que no hagan la conexión con Anthony. Me gustaba como personaje y le van cagar la vida.
No me copa que ahora se quede ahí.
Me estoy dando cuenta he hay muchos personajes que no me gustan. No me bancaria leer los anteriores.
LPM que no hagan la conexión con Anthony. Me gustaba como personaje y le van cagar la vida.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2017
*quietly adds another name to the List of Men Who Have Never Made Good Decisions, Ever, And By God They Are Not About to Start Now*
December 11, 2018
Wonderful series
Anyone who likes paranormal romance with paranormal heaven and hell must read, Start with series and continue. Love these books
Anyone who likes paranormal romance with paranormal heaven and hell must read, Start with series and continue. Love these books
May 22, 2019
Great description
Its amazing ! I really like these books and I am going to read them all. Thank you for such good description of the places and characters.
Its amazing ! I really like these books and I am going to read them all. Thank you for such good description of the places and characters.
November 2, 2013
* Attention review contains minor spoilers for "Oaths of Blood" *
Following the events in “Oaths of Blood” Elise is still in Hell. Together with half-succubus Neuma and nightmare Jerica, friend of Neuma, she hatches plans to conquer the home place of the demon she killed back on Earth, the House of Abraxas. Elise plans to use it as a base from which to conquer the Palace of Dis, thereby to put an end to the war that began with what now is called the Breaking.
The Breaking, a failed attempt by James Faulkner to open yet another gate to Eden broke down the dimensional barriers between Hell and Earth, opening a fissure first contained to Las Vegas, now spreading rapidly all over the North Americas. Leaving those lucky enough not to have been dragged to Hell or fallen under the claws of invading demons to flee the country for safe zones in Europe, Russia and China.
James is now headed for Ireland on board of a hospital ship, escorting the young witch Brianna which has fallen into a coma after a magical backlash received by the death of her bound kopis, Seth Wilder.
The wolves are back at the sanctuary in Northgate, mourning the loss of their former lover, uncle and adopted pack member. Abel, Rylie’s mate, wounded by the loss of his brother, tormented by secrets kept by his mate surrounding the circumstances of his death, has estranged himself from his mate and the pack. Rylie fights with her feelings of guilt over Seth’s death, feeling the burden of being Alpha lasting heavier on her than ever before.
Meanwhile Elise has to discover that taking the House of Abraxas did not bring her any closer to fulfil her plan. Instead of the hoped beginnings of an army of her own she finds herself in possession of hundreds of human slaves, far too broken and scared to even attempt to leave the cages they are kept in, and a house full of mindless minion-demons too scared of her to move either. On-top she has to discover that her return to Dis has not gone unnoticed, someone is leaving behind corpses as love letters for her.
But time is running out for Elise, because the Palace is far ahead in their building of a bridge that will connect the realms, finally allowing for easy access to and full scale invasion of Earth.
“Ruled by Steel” is through and through a story for Elise, fans of Rylie and the pack (read: Me) will find themselves a bit disappointed at the little screen time (or is that page time?) they get.
Fans of Neuma and of Summer’s lover Nash on the other hand can rejoice in seeing them step out of the sidelines. “Ruled by Steel” focuses much on Elise’s efforts to take control in Dis and keep the war from escalating, while Nash fights on Earth to keep it contained much as possible. Creating much playground for Elises’s ally Neuma and angel Nashriel, the two of them as of yet having only appeared as side characters in Ascension. I dare say it will be interesting to see whom author SM Reine will grant second star billing in the next chapter of the Ascension.
One of the more chilling aspect of this novel is, as so often is the case with stories depicting Hell, not the glimpses we get of eternal damnation as the look at the hell we are bound to create for ourselves in our life.
Unfortunately Rylie is going through more hard times. She has still not found back to her former self confidence and is again making decisions that I’m sure will come back to bite her.
I like the path the author is taking Elise on there, letting her grow gradually more human, letting more people, demon, werewolves – even angels get close to her. I’m not so sure if I like the path she’s taking Rylie down at the same time, one that leaves you worrying how much more that girl can take before she breaks under the burden of secrets she decides to keep to herself. It seems that in the same amount that Elise opens up, Rylie is bound to close herself down and one can only hope for her that she will make it through these trials coming out the stronger for it.
With some good old rallying the forces storyline, a bit of a mystery thrown in, but also a fair amount of character time “Ruled by Steel” presents itself as a good mix between the first two parts. It provides an entertaining read that never slows down, except for the closing chapter that feels like an extended epilogue, allowing the pack to reconcile with its loss and in the by now usual tradition closes on a line that leaves you back at a precipice, struggling to hold on, eagerly awaiting the next instalment.
Following the events in “Oaths of Blood” Elise is still in Hell. Together with half-succubus Neuma and nightmare Jerica, friend of Neuma, she hatches plans to conquer the home place of the demon she killed back on Earth, the House of Abraxas. Elise plans to use it as a base from which to conquer the Palace of Dis, thereby to put an end to the war that began with what now is called the Breaking.
The Breaking, a failed attempt by James Faulkner to open yet another gate to Eden broke down the dimensional barriers between Hell and Earth, opening a fissure first contained to Las Vegas, now spreading rapidly all over the North Americas. Leaving those lucky enough not to have been dragged to Hell or fallen under the claws of invading demons to flee the country for safe zones in Europe, Russia and China.
James is now headed for Ireland on board of a hospital ship, escorting the young witch Brianna which has fallen into a coma after a magical backlash received by the death of her bound kopis, Seth Wilder.
The wolves are back at the sanctuary in Northgate, mourning the loss of their former lover, uncle and adopted pack member. Abel, Rylie’s mate, wounded by the loss of his brother, tormented by secrets kept by his mate surrounding the circumstances of his death, has estranged himself from his mate and the pack. Rylie fights with her feelings of guilt over Seth’s death, feeling the burden of being Alpha lasting heavier on her than ever before.
Meanwhile Elise has to discover that taking the House of Abraxas did not bring her any closer to fulfil her plan. Instead of the hoped beginnings of an army of her own she finds herself in possession of hundreds of human slaves, far too broken and scared to even attempt to leave the cages they are kept in, and a house full of mindless minion-demons too scared of her to move either. On-top she has to discover that her return to Dis has not gone unnoticed, someone is leaving behind corpses as love letters for her.
But time is running out for Elise, because the Palace is far ahead in their building of a bridge that will connect the realms, finally allowing for easy access to and full scale invasion of Earth.
“Ruled by Steel” is through and through a story for Elise, fans of Rylie and the pack (read: Me) will find themselves a bit disappointed at the little screen time (or is that page time?) they get.
Fans of Neuma and of Summer’s lover Nash on the other hand can rejoice in seeing them step out of the sidelines. “Ruled by Steel” focuses much on Elise’s efforts to take control in Dis and keep the war from escalating, while Nash fights on Earth to keep it contained much as possible. Creating much playground for Elises’s ally Neuma and angel Nashriel, the two of them as of yet having only appeared as side characters in Ascension. I dare say it will be interesting to see whom author SM Reine will grant second star billing in the next chapter of the Ascension.
One of the more chilling aspect of this novel is, as so often is the case with stories depicting Hell, not the glimpses we get of eternal damnation as the look at the hell we are bound to create for ourselves in our life.
Unfortunately Rylie is going through more hard times. She has still not found back to her former self confidence and is again making decisions that I’m sure will come back to bite her.
I like the path the author is taking Elise on there, letting her grow gradually more human, letting more people, demon, werewolves – even angels get close to her. I’m not so sure if I like the path she’s taking Rylie down at the same time, one that leaves you worrying how much more that girl can take before she breaks under the burden of secrets she decides to keep to herself. It seems that in the same amount that Elise opens up, Rylie is bound to close herself down and one can only hope for her that she will make it through these trials coming out the stronger for it.
With some good old rallying the forces storyline, a bit of a mystery thrown in, but also a fair amount of character time “Ruled by Steel” presents itself as a good mix between the first two parts. It provides an entertaining read that never slows down, except for the closing chapter that feels like an extended epilogue, allowing the pack to reconcile with its loss and in the by now usual tradition closes on a line that leaves you back at a precipice, struggling to hold on, eagerly awaiting the next instalment.
November 6, 2025
This is your average urban fantasy series. I didn't resonate with me in any way but it wasn't bad.
April 3, 2014
Reviewed by Nicole
Disclosure: This ebook was provided by the author in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
This is the third instalment of Reine’s Ascension series and just like its namesake these books just keep going higher and higher in my estimation. The momentum pushes forward, the excitement escalates and the characters development progresses in every possible way. This one follows on from the cataclysmic events of the previous Oaths in Blood and Hell is about to spew forth and reign on earth which is where our protagonist steps up to do battle with her band of merry men…well, merry lycanthrope, angels and Greys anyway.
The opening scenes are something out of a Hollywood blockbuster horror movie, sinister and thrilling and just portrays how utterly fearless and empowering Elise is, the lengths she is now willing to go to in order to fight for humanity. Elise is however still ultimately struggling with her champion mantle. Our ever-reluctant heroine really steps up to the plate in this beauty of a book none more so than when in the opening sequence of events where she helps liberate trapped human slaves. Her conscience is starting to make a lot of decisions for her now rather than her indifferent ‘I should probably help here because it’s expected of me’ usual stance on things.
Ruled by Steele is a hell of a lot more violent and blood thirsty than the previous ones and that’s saying somethin’. I has a lot of descriptive writing rather than an abundance of dialogue between people, so we’re getting a kind of 300 slow motion blood spatter type of deal in imagining the battle scenes which to me is pretty awesome as what generally happens in these books is a whole lot of build up that fizzles out just when it should be kicking some lethal demon ass. That’s definitely not the case here. But the missing or rather scaled back dialogue kind of detracted from the experience of the book for me just a little bit because I like a lot of interaction between my characters.
As with the first introduction of James I’m still on tenterhooks to discover if he and Elise get their happy-ever-after or at least if James gets absolution from his past mistakes with her and she reaches a level of forgiveness but Elise and James are such great complex characters and James indeed is one of those great multifaceted characters, believing in the greater cause but causing greater pain or destruction in order to accomplish what he thinks is right. So is he ever really allowed to be labelled a good guy? Summer, Nash and the werewolves all round out a catalogue of characters and if you haven’t associated with them before or even read the first two books, it would be quite easy to fall by the way-side on who was who and why exactly so many side characters appear and steal a good chunk of Elise and James limelight. And maybe that’s the point S.M Reine wants to make. Maybe the Ascension series isn’t supposed to have one hero/heroine standing alone, maybe the point is that a battle can’t be waged or won without a lot of effort and aid from your supporting army, and like I’ve said before we never truly have a shining example of a female and male hero, they’re flawed and for being so inhuman they all harbour very real human characteristics and tendencies. Ruled by Steele is another shining example of paranormal writing at its best. When Elise is in Hell you can pretty much feel the heat through Reine’s depiction and when you’re in battle you can feel the adrenaline pouring through you as if you were involved.
I honestly hope this series goes on for at least another couple of books and my hope is too that the Elise/James love saga gives me a satisfactory conclusion. Amazing stuff.
Disclosure: This ebook was provided by the author in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
This is the third instalment of Reine’s Ascension series and just like its namesake these books just keep going higher and higher in my estimation. The momentum pushes forward, the excitement escalates and the characters development progresses in every possible way. This one follows on from the cataclysmic events of the previous Oaths in Blood and Hell is about to spew forth and reign on earth which is where our protagonist steps up to do battle with her band of merry men…well, merry lycanthrope, angels and Greys anyway.
The opening scenes are something out of a Hollywood blockbuster horror movie, sinister and thrilling and just portrays how utterly fearless and empowering Elise is, the lengths she is now willing to go to in order to fight for humanity. Elise is however still ultimately struggling with her champion mantle. Our ever-reluctant heroine really steps up to the plate in this beauty of a book none more so than when in the opening sequence of events where she helps liberate trapped human slaves. Her conscience is starting to make a lot of decisions for her now rather than her indifferent ‘I should probably help here because it’s expected of me’ usual stance on things.
Ruled by Steele is a hell of a lot more violent and blood thirsty than the previous ones and that’s saying somethin’. I has a lot of descriptive writing rather than an abundance of dialogue between people, so we’re getting a kind of 300 slow motion blood spatter type of deal in imagining the battle scenes which to me is pretty awesome as what generally happens in these books is a whole lot of build up that fizzles out just when it should be kicking some lethal demon ass. That’s definitely not the case here. But the missing or rather scaled back dialogue kind of detracted from the experience of the book for me just a little bit because I like a lot of interaction between my characters.
As with the first introduction of James I’m still on tenterhooks to discover if he and Elise get their happy-ever-after or at least if James gets absolution from his past mistakes with her and she reaches a level of forgiveness but Elise and James are such great complex characters and James indeed is one of those great multifaceted characters, believing in the greater cause but causing greater pain or destruction in order to accomplish what he thinks is right. So is he ever really allowed to be labelled a good guy? Summer, Nash and the werewolves all round out a catalogue of characters and if you haven’t associated with them before or even read the first two books, it would be quite easy to fall by the way-side on who was who and why exactly so many side characters appear and steal a good chunk of Elise and James limelight. And maybe that’s the point S.M Reine wants to make. Maybe the Ascension series isn’t supposed to have one hero/heroine standing alone, maybe the point is that a battle can’t be waged or won without a lot of effort and aid from your supporting army, and like I’ve said before we never truly have a shining example of a female and male hero, they’re flawed and for being so inhuman they all harbour very real human characteristics and tendencies. Ruled by Steele is another shining example of paranormal writing at its best. When Elise is in Hell you can pretty much feel the heat through Reine’s depiction and when you’re in battle you can feel the adrenaline pouring through you as if you were involved.
I honestly hope this series goes on for at least another couple of books and my hope is too that the Elise/James love saga gives me a satisfactory conclusion. Amazing stuff.
January 3, 2014
5*s
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Ruled by Steel is yet another amazing instalment in the Ascension series…. As the synopsis states, Elise failed to stop the ‘Breaking’ and now Hell is bleeding onto Earth so that now there’s only one option for Elise, she must go to Dis/Hell and take control in an attempt to stop the threat to Earth… whilst on Earth, Nash tries to fight of the demons, get everyone to safety , protect the werewolf sanctuary and rally the angels to help save the humans. Will his pleas fall on deaf ears when his brethren view him as a traitor? Everything hangs on Elise and what she plans to do in Hell. It was great to see Elise back in action, she is still struggling with her need to feed which also links to her evolving emotionally too, she seems to be struggling with her empathy and blaming it on Eves influence – but is it? She’s uncomfortable with being responsible for others, she’s unsure about caring for people, feeling that by doing so will put them in danger and she is still freaked out by peoples declarations of friendship, scared when they get too close, get hurt or worse betray her like James…. But she is letting people in which is a big step and I love the connection she feels towards the pack members, Rylie in particular & also Neuma. I wasn’t sure about the feeding discovery, it seemed a bit weird to me and I like it when she devours demons, it gives her a sort of invincibility in my eyes… but I’m happy to go along with it. I loved the developments between Elise & James, she seems to soften towards him a lot in this and I love how they communicate through their bond. I still have hope but feel it’s a long way off. Our setting changes this time as Elise takes on hell in a big way! I always say this for these books; they would look stunning visually. I loved the setting, the descriptions of Dis, the ‘House of Abraxus’, the palace, the bridge…. Begs to be seen and gave most of the book a different feel, more fantasy, more desperate as the setting opens up to more horror and introduces us to the demon lords of Dis, depraved, power hungry monsters who have the most despicable plans in place for the humans and use those they have in the worst ways. I wanted to know more about these lords, their hierarchy, who each one is and what they do… I loved what we got but there’s always room for more. I liked that we got a viewpoint from more than one place of interest – Earth with Nash, Dis with Elise & some curious places with James – I really enjoyed all of their point of views and they each add something that connects everything so easily. The pack did take a backseat in this as they mourn the loss of a loved one but they still make a big impact and I really love the way they embrace Elise as one of their own. I loved the developments within the story and whilst there is a lot of action, a lot of killing & battle… there are also some twists and turns along the way with some surprising consequences which makes me very excited for the next instalment…. This one was epic so bring on book 4 – Caged in Bone… even the title makes me curious for more.
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Ruled by Steel is yet another amazing instalment in the Ascension series…. As the synopsis states, Elise failed to stop the ‘Breaking’ and now Hell is bleeding onto Earth so that now there’s only one option for Elise, she must go to Dis/Hell and take control in an attempt to stop the threat to Earth… whilst on Earth, Nash tries to fight of the demons, get everyone to safety , protect the werewolf sanctuary and rally the angels to help save the humans. Will his pleas fall on deaf ears when his brethren view him as a traitor? Everything hangs on Elise and what she plans to do in Hell. It was great to see Elise back in action, she is still struggling with her need to feed which also links to her evolving emotionally too, she seems to be struggling with her empathy and blaming it on Eves influence – but is it? She’s uncomfortable with being responsible for others, she’s unsure about caring for people, feeling that by doing so will put them in danger and she is still freaked out by peoples declarations of friendship, scared when they get too close, get hurt or worse betray her like James…. But she is letting people in which is a big step and I love the connection she feels towards the pack members, Rylie in particular & also Neuma. I wasn’t sure about the feeding discovery, it seemed a bit weird to me and I like it when she devours demons, it gives her a sort of invincibility in my eyes… but I’m happy to go along with it. I loved the developments between Elise & James, she seems to soften towards him a lot in this and I love how they communicate through their bond. I still have hope but feel it’s a long way off. Our setting changes this time as Elise takes on hell in a big way! I always say this for these books; they would look stunning visually. I loved the setting, the descriptions of Dis, the ‘House of Abraxus’, the palace, the bridge…. Begs to be seen and gave most of the book a different feel, more fantasy, more desperate as the setting opens up to more horror and introduces us to the demon lords of Dis, depraved, power hungry monsters who have the most despicable plans in place for the humans and use those they have in the worst ways. I wanted to know more about these lords, their hierarchy, who each one is and what they do… I loved what we got but there’s always room for more. I liked that we got a viewpoint from more than one place of interest – Earth with Nash, Dis with Elise & some curious places with James – I really enjoyed all of their point of views and they each add something that connects everything so easily. The pack did take a backseat in this as they mourn the loss of a loved one but they still make a big impact and I really love the way they embrace Elise as one of their own. I loved the developments within the story and whilst there is a lot of action, a lot of killing & battle… there are also some twists and turns along the way with some surprising consequences which makes me very excited for the next instalment…. This one was epic so bring on book 4 – Caged in Bone… even the title makes me curious for more.
March 7, 2017
Really enjoying this series
December 10, 2013
I received Ruled by Steel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I think I may have mentioned this once or twice, but if you haven’t read any books by S.M. Reine, you need to rectify that. NOW! There is just no way to describe the depth of emotion that she evokes. It has to be experienced. So yes, this is going to be a rambling, gushing, stuttering review, but I had to let you know why. It can’t be helped.
Ruled by Steel picks up pretty much where Oaths of Blood left off. Everyone is trying to come to terms with the events that took place at the end of Oaths of Blood. Both Elise and Riley are wracked with guilt, but they handle it in very different ways. Elise, of course, fights her way through her emotions. Riley shuts herself off and hides the truth of what happened from everyone. Both perspectives were painful and heart wrenching – remember that depth of emotion thing? This is only the tip of the iceberg. *sigh*
There was a lot going on in Ruled by Steel and a lot of different POVs were thrown into the mix. That was good though because it gave readers a little bit more insight into characters that we haven’t seen a lot of yet in the Ascension series. I loved spending time with Nash and Summer. Their connection is so intense. Their back story is just one of the reasons why I want to go back and pick up the Seasons of the Moon and Cain Chronicles where I left off. Nash also plays a very important role in Ruled by Steel. The politics and attitudes definitely give readers a different perspective on Heaven. S.M. Reine’s angels are not typical, but then neither are her demons or werewolves. Her world building isn’t just about where these characters are but what and who they are.
The other thing that needs to be said is that this author pulls no punches and holds nothing back. Demons aren’t just killed. Readers know in gruesome detail how they are destroyed – and it’s not always quick. Death isn’t always saved for the bad guys either. She’s proven more than once that no one is safe and the character’s painful experiences aren’t always physical. Riley and Abel just about broke me in Ruled by Steel. They are such strong characters, but their loss brought them to their knees. I’m not ashamed to say that there were more than a few tears were shed.
The end of Oaths of Blood was heartbreaking, but the end of Ruled by Steel was infuriating. Just when I thought that there was hope for…. nope… I’m not going to tell you who I was talking about. You’ll have to read Ruled by Steel for yourself. Like I said, you have to experience it to appreciate it. The only good thing about a book ending like this one did is that S.M. Reine writes FAST! Caged in Bone will be released within the next week or so. If you start now, you’ll be done in plenty of time to read it.
I think I may have mentioned this once or twice, but if you haven’t read any books by S.M. Reine, you need to rectify that. NOW! There is just no way to describe the depth of emotion that she evokes. It has to be experienced. So yes, this is going to be a rambling, gushing, stuttering review, but I had to let you know why. It can’t be helped.
Ruled by Steel picks up pretty much where Oaths of Blood left off. Everyone is trying to come to terms with the events that took place at the end of Oaths of Blood. Both Elise and Riley are wracked with guilt, but they handle it in very different ways. Elise, of course, fights her way through her emotions. Riley shuts herself off and hides the truth of what happened from everyone. Both perspectives were painful and heart wrenching – remember that depth of emotion thing? This is only the tip of the iceberg. *sigh*
There was a lot going on in Ruled by Steel and a lot of different POVs were thrown into the mix. That was good though because it gave readers a little bit more insight into characters that we haven’t seen a lot of yet in the Ascension series. I loved spending time with Nash and Summer. Their connection is so intense. Their back story is just one of the reasons why I want to go back and pick up the Seasons of the Moon and Cain Chronicles where I left off. Nash also plays a very important role in Ruled by Steel. The politics and attitudes definitely give readers a different perspective on Heaven. S.M. Reine’s angels are not typical, but then neither are her demons or werewolves. Her world building isn’t just about where these characters are but what and who they are.
The other thing that needs to be said is that this author pulls no punches and holds nothing back. Demons aren’t just killed. Readers know in gruesome detail how they are destroyed – and it’s not always quick. Death isn’t always saved for the bad guys either. She’s proven more than once that no one is safe and the character’s painful experiences aren’t always physical. Riley and Abel just about broke me in Ruled by Steel. They are such strong characters, but their loss brought them to their knees. I’m not ashamed to say that there were more than a few tears were shed.
The end of Oaths of Blood was heartbreaking, but the end of Ruled by Steel was infuriating. Just when I thought that there was hope for…. nope… I’m not going to tell you who I was talking about. You’ll have to read Ruled by Steel for yourself. Like I said, you have to experience it to appreciate it. The only good thing about a book ending like this one did is that S.M. Reine writes FAST! Caged in Bone will be released within the next week or so. If you start now, you’ll be done in plenty of time to read it.
October 27, 2013
I was given an advance copy of this book by the author for an honest review.
I don't want to sound like a crazy fan but this author and this series of books are the best thing I've read in a long, long time. I wish I was an author so I could write the glowing review that this book deserves. But Im not. So your going to get my review which instead of big beautiful words will have a lot of "awesomes," "bad asses "and exclamation points!!!!!
This book starts out right where Oaths of Blood ended. Elise is in Hell and she's ready to take over! This book primarily centers on Elise. We see glimpses of other characters. James, Nash ,Summer, Riley, Abel, and Anthony all make appearances. But all in all this is Elise's story. Its gritty, dark, violent and at times sexy. As I said she's in Hell and she needs to take control so the demons of Hell don't use the bridge they have been erecting to invade Earth. Now taking over Hell isn't easy, even for a big bad Godslayer, she assembles an "army" with the help of Neuma (who I love. Maybe one day do a stand alone novel about her early years? Hint, Hint). The army is a surprise ,as is the new character introduced in this book, Gerard. I really like him and hope to see more of him. There is a lot of fighting. But that's not all this book is. Honestly to me, the core of this book is about friendship. all kinds of friendships.
It was an awesome read. It sucked me in and I sat up all night reading until it was finished. Im not going to give specifics because I hate spoilers. Just trust me when I say , this is one of the best series of books I have ever read. I did love this book but I cant recommend this book if you have never read this author before. You need to start at the beginning of the Descent series, Deaths Hand. You wont be sorry!
I don't want to sound like a crazy fan but this author and this series of books are the best thing I've read in a long, long time. I wish I was an author so I could write the glowing review that this book deserves. But Im not. So your going to get my review which instead of big beautiful words will have a lot of "awesomes," "bad asses "and exclamation points!!!!!
This book starts out right where Oaths of Blood ended. Elise is in Hell and she's ready to take over! This book primarily centers on Elise. We see glimpses of other characters. James, Nash ,Summer, Riley, Abel, and Anthony all make appearances. But all in all this is Elise's story. Its gritty, dark, violent and at times sexy. As I said she's in Hell and she needs to take control so the demons of Hell don't use the bridge they have been erecting to invade Earth. Now taking over Hell isn't easy, even for a big bad Godslayer, she assembles an "army" with the help of Neuma (who I love. Maybe one day do a stand alone novel about her early years? Hint, Hint). The army is a surprise ,as is the new character introduced in this book, Gerard. I really like him and hope to see more of him. There is a lot of fighting. But that's not all this book is. Honestly to me, the core of this book is about friendship. all kinds of friendships.
It was an awesome read. It sucked me in and I sat up all night reading until it was finished. Im not going to give specifics because I hate spoilers. Just trust me when I say , this is one of the best series of books I have ever read. I did love this book but I cant recommend this book if you have never read this author before. You need to start at the beginning of the Descent series, Deaths Hand. You wont be sorry!
November 1, 2013
AFreakinMazing! Non-stop thriller/action PN series.
S.M. Reine continues to impress and captivate me with each installment of the "Ascension Series".
I received this for free; Advance Reader Copy, in exchange for continuing to posting my honest review (I had already done that with three prior series, before Reine contacted me). Now I get to read for Free!, before the mass public, Awesome!
This is book #3 of the series and the best yet!
The action picks up from Book #2 - "Oaths In Blood" and the ride just keep getting better. I absolutely love Elise, the "Father" of all demons with a heart of a Kopi; demon Hunter. She is the unlikely hero of this series.
The battle by hell spawns, for dominion over earth ensues. Elise and Rylie's are brought together again to fight and protect everything they hold sacred, as well as to face the truth about Seth.
Nash reaches out to his fellow angels to save humanity, though he is still viewed as a "Traitor" for his allegiance to Adam in thier last war. But in this war, forces from Heaven and Hell must unite, or demons far stronger and scarier than Elise; the Godslayer, will overrun earth and enslave humanity a very short time.
This isn't just your usual urban fantasy read, it's touches on the internal struggles of each character. You'll find the complexities of accepting and embracing our humanity and our inner demons.
The characters are from three prior series combined in this series, which makes this a dynamic read. It's not necessary to read the other series to understand this one. However, I highly recommend reading the previous series, see where each character came from, while waiting for the next book.
If you love this series you'll love "The Descent Series"; Elise's story before she became a demon. Also, "Season of the Moon" and "the Chronicles of Cain", which goes into Rylie's story.
S.M. Reine continues to impress and captivate me with each installment of the "Ascension Series".
I received this for free; Advance Reader Copy, in exchange for continuing to posting my honest review (I had already done that with three prior series, before Reine contacted me). Now I get to read for Free!, before the mass public, Awesome!
This is book #3 of the series and the best yet!
The action picks up from Book #2 - "Oaths In Blood" and the ride just keep getting better. I absolutely love Elise, the "Father" of all demons with a heart of a Kopi; demon Hunter. She is the unlikely hero of this series.
The battle by hell spawns, for dominion over earth ensues. Elise and Rylie's are brought together again to fight and protect everything they hold sacred, as well as to face the truth about Seth.
Nash reaches out to his fellow angels to save humanity, though he is still viewed as a "Traitor" for his allegiance to Adam in thier last war. But in this war, forces from Heaven and Hell must unite, or demons far stronger and scarier than Elise; the Godslayer, will overrun earth and enslave humanity a very short time.
This isn't just your usual urban fantasy read, it's touches on the internal struggles of each character. You'll find the complexities of accepting and embracing our humanity and our inner demons.
The characters are from three prior series combined in this series, which makes this a dynamic read. It's not necessary to read the other series to understand this one. However, I highly recommend reading the previous series, see where each character came from, while waiting for the next book.
If you love this series you'll love "The Descent Series"; Elise's story before she became a demon. Also, "Season of the Moon" and "the Chronicles of Cain", which goes into Rylie's story.
January 1, 2014
Ruled by Steel picks up right where Oaths of Blood, book 2 of the Ascension series) leaves off and again I would suggest starting at the beginning to completely understand and benefit from the ongoing world building. The world is broken and Elise is in a very dark place realizing the only way to stop chaos from growing is to take over the City of Dis. This is one rollercoaster of an action read. There are new obstacles cropping up at every turn and Elise and her allies back on Earth have to band together to save the werewolf sanctuary, as well as prevent more damage to the human population. I cannot get enough of this series, it leaves with hungry for more the more I read. The writing is dark and gritty and just keeps getting better and better with every installment. I will mention that I have read the three series from this author; the first two separate series and this third combining characters from the prior two. I have become emotionally invested in the characters from these books and am always hungry for more. On finishing this read I felt full like I had just had a meal out at one of my favorite restaurants, it was very satisfying and yet there was still hope for the next installment to find out what is for dessert. Definitely recommend to readers that like their urban fantasy dark and brutal, but with heart and characters you want to know more about and revisit again and again. I requested this book from the author and received it with a request for my honest review without any compensation whatsoever, other than the joy of reading a new book.
November 9, 2013
I love all the author's other series and I was given a copy of this book in return for an honest review. I finished it a few days ago but needed some time to process it all and write a suitable review without giving away too much.
Each book that is released, surpasses the last one and that is hard to find as some follow on books lose their steam but not Sara's books. She draws you into her world of darkness and treachery taking you along for the ride with the expectation of a "light at the end of the dark tunnel" somewhere. From the first page I am once again immersed in the City of Dis and it is make or break time for Elise because letting the world be destroyed by demons is just not acceptable and time is running out. There is so many twists and turns to this story that I thought I knew what would happen and then I was suprised again by the outcome. I found myself hoping for some semblance of a happy ending for Elise, Riley and her pack as I had become invested in them and thought they needed a light in their darkness. The characters come to life from these pages and I could easily see myself becoming friends with them, well maybe Elise would be a bit scary at times but I admire the hell out of her and she does "get it done" that's for sure. The ending was not a cliff hanger which I like but definitely leaves you wanting more.
If you have not read this series before then do yourself a favour and start reading them as they are so hard to put down and will have you desperate get your hands on the next book.
Each book that is released, surpasses the last one and that is hard to find as some follow on books lose their steam but not Sara's books. She draws you into her world of darkness and treachery taking you along for the ride with the expectation of a "light at the end of the dark tunnel" somewhere. From the first page I am once again immersed in the City of Dis and it is make or break time for Elise because letting the world be destroyed by demons is just not acceptable and time is running out. There is so many twists and turns to this story that I thought I knew what would happen and then I was suprised again by the outcome. I found myself hoping for some semblance of a happy ending for Elise, Riley and her pack as I had become invested in them and thought they needed a light in their darkness. The characters come to life from these pages and I could easily see myself becoming friends with them, well maybe Elise would be a bit scary at times but I admire the hell out of her and she does "get it done" that's for sure. The ending was not a cliff hanger which I like but definitely leaves you wanting more.
If you have not read this series before then do yourself a favour and start reading them as they are so hard to put down and will have you desperate get your hands on the next book.
October 27, 2013
Amazing journey continues-stop everything and read this one now
This installment of The Ascension Series is a fabulous trip that promises and delivers adventure, suspense, and terrific story telling. If you haven't yet read about Elise, Rylie, and all the rest from "The Descent Series", "Seasons of the Moon", "The Cain Chronicles" and now "The Ascension Series", invest in these extraordinary tales of extraordinary women, the men in their lives, and the worlds that have come together to test them all. 'Ruled by Steel' gives us a chance to explore strength of will, love that touches the heart, and a smile here and there that will let your spirit soar.
With the first book of Elise in ‘Death’s Hand’, along with the beginning of the tale of Rylie in ‘Six Moon Summer’ their stories combined in ‘Sacrificed in Shadow’ and I continue to look forward to each new tale and am so pleased with this current story installment. I look forward to the next story ‘Caged in Bone’.
If you enjoy demon hunters, werewolves, witches, warriors, angels, demons, heaven and hell, these books are for you. Spread the word about SM Reine and enjoy the worlds she so magically has prepared for us to enjoy.
I put another book on hold to read this one and am so glad I did. It was terrific and I can't wait to read the next one.
Thank you Sara for an amazing time. Please keep them coming. I can't wait for the next one.
This installment of The Ascension Series is a fabulous trip that promises and delivers adventure, suspense, and terrific story telling. If you haven't yet read about Elise, Rylie, and all the rest from "The Descent Series", "Seasons of the Moon", "The Cain Chronicles" and now "The Ascension Series", invest in these extraordinary tales of extraordinary women, the men in their lives, and the worlds that have come together to test them all. 'Ruled by Steel' gives us a chance to explore strength of will, love that touches the heart, and a smile here and there that will let your spirit soar.
With the first book of Elise in ‘Death’s Hand’, along with the beginning of the tale of Rylie in ‘Six Moon Summer’ their stories combined in ‘Sacrificed in Shadow’ and I continue to look forward to each new tale and am so pleased with this current story installment. I look forward to the next story ‘Caged in Bone’.
If you enjoy demon hunters, werewolves, witches, warriors, angels, demons, heaven and hell, these books are for you. Spread the word about SM Reine and enjoy the worlds she so magically has prepared for us to enjoy.
I put another book on hold to read this one and am so glad I did. It was terrific and I can't wait to read the next one.
Thank you Sara for an amazing time. Please keep them coming. I can't wait for the next one.
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