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Ascension #5
Lost in Prophecy
Elise Kavanagh is too busy liberating slaves in the City of Dis to worry about what’s happening on Earth. She hasn’t even noticed that more than three thousand people have gone missing—not until an anonymous client hires her organization, The Hunting Club, to rescue them. The man asking for help doesn’t seem to exist. But the trail of clues is too strange to ignore, and she finds herself caught in the investigation.
Werewolf Alpha Rylie Gresham is absorbed in troubles of her own. The pack is disobeying her, and the cult camped out in Northgate seems to be the source of the problem. Her mate, Abel, has resolved to fix it one way or another—even if it means going over Rylie’s head and killing their enemies.
Through secrets, lies, and assassination attempts, Elise and Rylie find that they have a new enemy in common. And what it takes to prevail might mean shattering the universe…
Werewolf Alpha Rylie Gresham is absorbed in troubles of her own. The pack is disobeying her, and the cult camped out in Northgate seems to be the source of the problem. Her mate, Abel, has resolved to fix it one way or another—even if it means going over Rylie’s head and killing their enemies.
Through secrets, lies, and assassination attempts, Elise and Rylie find that they have a new enemy in common. And what it takes to prevail might mean shattering the universe…
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 16, 2014
100 people are currently reading
521 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 47 reviews
March 21, 2021
🖤 Elise Kavanagh Thou Art the Sunshine of Our Black Withered Hearts Buddy Reread (EKTAtSoOBWHBR™) with the MacHalos 🖤
➽ And the moral of this reread is: whereby it was scientifically proven that, while some angels are assholes, most angels are ASSHOLES. And treacherous, cunning, Machiavellian ones at that. Yay and stuff.
➽ And the other moral of this reread is: thou shalt not eat your allies. No, thou shalt not. Even if they smell yummy as fish and stuff.
That's right, eat pizza. Much better for you. And for your allies, from what I hear.
· Book 1: Sacrificed in Shadow ★★★★
· Book 2: Oaths of Blood ★★★★
· Book 3: Ruled by Steel ★★★★
· Book 4: Caged in Bone ★★★
· Book 6: Torn by Fury ★★★★★
· Book 7: Sins of Eden ★★★★★
· Book 8: The Second Coming ★★½
[June 2015]
WOW. Just WOW.
Feathery bastards + asshole demons + stupid stupid werewolves + silly humans =
And then there's Adam. Always Adam. And dumb bitch Eve with her limitless love. And freaking James Faulkner.
Just eat them all Elise and get it over with. Well don't eat James just yet. His case might not be as desperate as it once seemed. Then again, who knows? S.M. Reine cannot be trusted.
►► Crappy review to come. Whenever I recover.
➽ And the moral of this reread is: whereby it was scientifically proven that, while some angels are assholes, most angels are ASSHOLES. And treacherous, cunning, Machiavellian ones at that. Yay and stuff.
➽ And the other moral of this reread is: thou shalt not eat your allies. No, thou shalt not. Even if they smell yummy as fish and stuff.
That's right, eat pizza. Much better for you. And for your allies, from what I hear.
· Book 1: Sacrificed in Shadow ★★★★
· Book 2: Oaths of Blood ★★★★
· Book 3: Ruled by Steel ★★★★
· Book 4: Caged in Bone ★★★
· Book 6: Torn by Fury ★★★★★
· Book 7: Sins of Eden ★★★★★
· Book 8: The Second Coming ★★½
[June 2015]
WOW. Just WOW.
Feathery bastards + asshole demons + stupid stupid werewolves + silly humans =
And then there's Adam. Always Adam. And dumb bitch Eve with her limitless love. And freaking James Faulkner.
Just eat them all Elise and get it over with. Well don't eat James just yet. His case might not be as desperate as it once seemed. Then again, who knows? S.M. Reine cannot be trusted.
►► Crappy review to come. Whenever I recover.
June 18, 2014
3 1\2
Sorry to say that this book lost a bit of its magic at the "fissure" between chapter 17 and chapter 18. How can I be this sure? Well, because at the end of chap 17 we were in the middle of a battle in hell. At the beginning of chap 18 we were in New Eden. How, when, where were missing. I have absolutely no idea what happened. And same goes with Abram. , and Nash And if I think about it I have no idea about a prophecy. :D
Still, I was enjoying myself so much before getting lost that I can't really lower my rating too much. :) I loved this story because it's centered on weaknesses: cowardice, betrayals, selfishness . Every single character show a "human" weakness, greed, stupidity, lack of courage. And every one (and the world) pays for it.
Lost in Prophecy is convoluted, maybe too much convoluted. I love this kind of stories, but it really has to be a cup you enjoy. Your balance between black and white must not to be fixed, or the moral ambiguity (or the lack of goodness of angels) might be really disturbing.
I was ready to get in to the story and start strangling a few characters midway. I've never been a fan of Rylie, but she did really went beyond her usual already unbearable (to me) self. And James, well he's always James. If there's not something for him, he's not interested. I felt stabbed as much as Elise by his attitude.
mmmm...
I guess when you star believing in characters an author has succeeded in hooking you truly..:)
Oh my god, some one shoots me. I'm becoming a fangirl *shudders*
Arc courtesy of SM Reine
Sorry to say that this book lost a bit of its magic at the "fissure" between chapter 17 and chapter 18. How can I be this sure? Well, because at the end of chap 17 we were in the middle of a battle in hell. At the beginning of chap 18 we were in New Eden. How, when, where were missing. I have absolutely no idea what happened. And same goes with Abram. , and Nash And if I think about it I have no idea about a prophecy. :D
Still, I was enjoying myself so much before getting lost that I can't really lower my rating too much. :) I loved this story because it's centered on weaknesses: cowardice, betrayals, selfishness . Every single character show a "human" weakness, greed, stupidity, lack of courage. And every one (and the world) pays for it.
Lost in Prophecy is convoluted, maybe too much convoluted. I love this kind of stories, but it really has to be a cup you enjoy. Your balance between black and white must not to be fixed, or the moral ambiguity (or the lack of goodness of angels) might be really disturbing.
I was ready to get in to the story and start strangling a few characters midway. I've never been a fan of Rylie, but she did really went beyond her usual already unbearable (to me) self. And James, well he's always James. If there's not something for him, he's not interested. I felt stabbed as much as Elise by his attitude.
mmmm...
I guess when you star believing in characters an author has succeeded in hooking you truly..:)
Oh my god, some one shoots me. I'm becoming a fangirl *shudders*
Arc courtesy of SM Reine
March 24, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Where to begin with this book? This one was filled with twists and turns and lots of surprise guests. Just when you think you know where the series is headed, everything and everyone ends up getting beat up, destroyed, or betrayed in the most unexpected way. I am absolutely in love with the gritty and broken world that the author has created. It combines things that absolutely should not ever be mixed together and it is beautiful.
So, obviously, I love this series and all the related ones. If you haven't read the previous books, I recommend that you pick them up (start from the very beginning) and work your way to this one. You won't be disappointed. The basic building blocks from the first book still manage to tie in here. Which means I should probably talk about the specifics of this book. Obviously there are going to be spoilers from the past installments because it's just impossible to talk about otherwise.
Elise is still the awesome ruler of hell, trying to do good in her own way. She's on her own type of path to redemption (which is pretty difficult in hell) that takes her past all of her previous failures. You can't talk about her past without mentioning James. He gets some serious time in this book, and you don't spend most of it hating him. I'm still secretly wishing that James and Elise could ride off into the sunset together, but I'll take what I can get. There are some moments in this book that had my heart soaring, even though the progress was infinitesimal. A little smile here, a little touch there and I'm in heaven (actually, they're in hell, but you get the idea).
Riley is still a bit of a conflicted alpha. There's too many bad guys to count at this point and somehow the werewolves are pretty much the only guardians between hell and Earth. Pretty big responsibilities have been placed on a small group of misfits held together by a curse. Drama ensues (when does Riley *not* have drama?) and I'm sure we'll be picking up the pieces from it for a while. Riley and Elise's friendship is a little bright spot in that they sort of balance each other out. There's big things on the horizon and I'm excited about where things are headed. There's more honesty for almost all the characters, but oodles of surprises jammed in. This is the part I hate most -- waiting for the next one!
Where to begin with this book? This one was filled with twists and turns and lots of surprise guests. Just when you think you know where the series is headed, everything and everyone ends up getting beat up, destroyed, or betrayed in the most unexpected way. I am absolutely in love with the gritty and broken world that the author has created. It combines things that absolutely should not ever be mixed together and it is beautiful.
So, obviously, I love this series and all the related ones. If you haven't read the previous books, I recommend that you pick them up (start from the very beginning) and work your way to this one. You won't be disappointed. The basic building blocks from the first book still manage to tie in here. Which means I should probably talk about the specifics of this book. Obviously there are going to be spoilers from the past installments because it's just impossible to talk about otherwise.
Elise is still the awesome ruler of hell, trying to do good in her own way. She's on her own type of path to redemption (which is pretty difficult in hell) that takes her past all of her previous failures. You can't talk about her past without mentioning James. He gets some serious time in this book, and you don't spend most of it hating him. I'm still secretly wishing that James and Elise could ride off into the sunset together, but I'll take what I can get. There are some moments in this book that had my heart soaring, even though the progress was infinitesimal. A little smile here, a little touch there and I'm in heaven (actually, they're in hell, but you get the idea).
Riley is still a bit of a conflicted alpha. There's too many bad guys to count at this point and somehow the werewolves are pretty much the only guardians between hell and Earth. Pretty big responsibilities have been placed on a small group of misfits held together by a curse. Drama ensues (when does Riley *not* have drama?) and I'm sure we'll be picking up the pieces from it for a while. Riley and Elise's friendship is a little bright spot in that they sort of balance each other out. There's big things on the horizon and I'm excited about where things are headed. There's more honesty for almost all the characters, but oodles of surprises jammed in. This is the part I hate most -- waiting for the next one!
April 4, 2014
This series still might save itself
This book 5 still suffers from the same problems the other books did even though the author tries to address them. The book is mostly about Elise which is good. She's the strength of the world. Elise still suffers the near death wound and weakness she does in ever book. She talks about feeding and never looks strong. Yeah she rules hell but there seems to be many demons far stronger than she is. It's book 5 and I'm wondering when Elise will get tough.
Rylie and the werewolves are part of this book and I just can't make myself care. Rylie has grown into a weak character that's not entertaining. The werewolves themselves aren't very entertaining. This brand of lycanthropy is lazy. They are just people that change into wolves, except for Abel. Even Rylie is just a girl with a couple of wolf urges every now and then. If you've read other werewolf books you have some expectations on what a wolf pack is like. There is none of that here. I can't even fault the bad guys.
Despite all the annoying, page skipping content, there is some really good stuff. Elise makes progress with magic. She and James make progress. The overall story starts slow but ends strong. Most of my reviews are either 3 or 4 for the series but I'm still sticking around.
This book 5 still suffers from the same problems the other books did even though the author tries to address them. The book is mostly about Elise which is good. She's the strength of the world. Elise still suffers the near death wound and weakness she does in ever book. She talks about feeding and never looks strong. Yeah she rules hell but there seems to be many demons far stronger than she is. It's book 5 and I'm wondering when Elise will get tough.
Rylie and the werewolves are part of this book and I just can't make myself care. Rylie has grown into a weak character that's not entertaining. The werewolves themselves aren't very entertaining. This brand of lycanthropy is lazy. They are just people that change into wolves, except for Abel. Even Rylie is just a girl with a couple of wolf urges every now and then. If you've read other werewolf books you have some expectations on what a wolf pack is like. There is none of that here. I can't even fault the bad guys.
Despite all the annoying, page skipping content, there is some really good stuff. Elise makes progress with magic. She and James make progress. The overall story starts slow but ends strong. Most of my reviews are either 3 or 4 for the series but I'm still sticking around.
May 13, 2014
This one was really hard to get through. Found myself not liking ANY of the characters. Maybe the next one will be better
April 26, 2014
2.5 stars. This was just meh from start to finish. Not up to her usual high standard.
August 7, 2017
I will most likely sound like a fan girl, but whatever I love everything Reine writes.
I just finished this book and a lot of it is a jumble for me right now, but the things that stick out.... Stephanie, I still don't like her and I dislike her even more (if that is possible) in this book. I was in hopes that I wouldn't see her character again (I really hope Hannah doesn't come back btw James's ex-girlfriends are both heinous.) She is more stuck up and pretentious this time around. I curious to see what all it is that she learned when it comes to magic with the reveal at the end of the book.
When it comes to Levi.... He was a buthead in the werewolves’ series and an even bigger twat in this book. Though I was sort of happy with what happened with him near the end of the book. I wasn't expecting Abram's anger towards his parents and the choices he made, but that is one of the things I love about Reine's characters you don't really get all you were expecting.
The revelations regarding the demon houses in Dis were pretty freaking cool. I liked the last fight with the demon who owned the flesh farm (I don't remember her name atm.) it was nifty different.
The whole situation with Lincoln and Ben … whoa I wasn’t expecting that and thought it really, really neat. I feel sorry for Lincoln; I did when he was first introduced but even more now. I’m curious to read the War of the Alphas series again to read that glimpse of him again. It will probably have a different context to me when I do.
I just finished this book and a lot of it is a jumble for me right now, but the things that stick out.... Stephanie, I still don't like her and I dislike her even more (if that is possible) in this book. I was in hopes that I wouldn't see her character again (I really hope Hannah doesn't come back btw James's ex-girlfriends are both heinous.) She is more stuck up and pretentious this time around. I curious to see what all it is that she learned when it comes to magic with the reveal at the end of the book.
When it comes to Levi.... He was a buthead in the werewolves’ series and an even bigger twat in this book. Though I was sort of happy with what happened with him near the end of the book. I wasn't expecting Abram's anger towards his parents and the choices he made, but that is one of the things I love about Reine's characters you don't really get all you were expecting.
The revelations regarding the demon houses in Dis were pretty freaking cool. I liked the last fight with the demon who owned the flesh farm (I don't remember her name atm.) it was nifty different.
The whole situation with Lincoln and Ben … whoa I wasn’t expecting that and thought it really, really neat. I feel sorry for Lincoln; I did when he was first introduced but even more now. I’m curious to read the War of the Alphas series again to read that glimpse of him again. It will probably have a different context to me when I do.
May 11, 2017
With each book puzzle pieces come together yet, oh wow you have another tray of pieces you didn't know about that need to be added so you can see the whole picture....surprise!!!
This is what I really love about Reine's writing. She has a way of adding more surprises as she ties up other storylines. I ould really hate to see what her outline of the story looked like with all the lines that alone would look like Christmas lights that you have to untangle.
I think what I enjoy most is how she makes her characters so very real. Even though they have all these powers and can do so much they still have weaknesses. Yes, Elise has a lot of power but some of those demons are very old and the older they are the more powerful they are. Elise is still learning what she can even do.
Once again I lost sleep reading this book and had a difficult time putting it down. I did not rest much between each book it was really one great big one so makes it fun to try to do the critiques so just know each has their own surprises.
This is what I really love about Reine's writing. She has a way of adding more surprises as she ties up other storylines. I ould really hate to see what her outline of the story looked like with all the lines that alone would look like Christmas lights that you have to untangle.
I think what I enjoy most is how she makes her characters so very real. Even though they have all these powers and can do so much they still have weaknesses. Yes, Elise has a lot of power but some of those demons are very old and the older they are the more powerful they are. Elise is still learning what she can even do.
Once again I lost sleep reading this book and had a difficult time putting it down. I did not rest much between each book it was really one great big one so makes it fun to try to do the critiques so just know each has their own surprises.
June 20, 2022
I have the box set but review as I read each book.
This was another long installment in the Ascension series and it was entertaining, engaging and enjoyable, with plenty of action, despite the gore and cruelty. I like Elise and that despite her being a demon, she tries to help the less fortunate where she can. Her relationship with James continues to be intriguing.
The story is a complex mix of myth, magic, reality and in between, though definitely a fantasy. The cast of characters fits nicely into the varying plots and the details make for a great sense of place.
The only thing about the fast-paced writing style I don't like is 'off of', which should be just 'off' or 'from', otherwise, it's brilliant.
Overall, a recommended read.
This was another long installment in the Ascension series and it was entertaining, engaging and enjoyable, with plenty of action, despite the gore and cruelty. I like Elise and that despite her being a demon, she tries to help the less fortunate where she can. Her relationship with James continues to be intriguing.
The story is a complex mix of myth, magic, reality and in between, though definitely a fantasy. The cast of characters fits nicely into the varying plots and the details make for a great sense of place.
The only thing about the fast-paced writing style I don't like is 'off of', which should be just 'off' or 'from', otherwise, it's brilliant.
Overall, a recommended read.
November 18, 2019
Hooked on this series!
First of all... what the hell just happened! I was not expecting that at all!
I love this series! I have gotten addicted to Elise and James over the passed few months. I love how Rylies story intertwined with it. Makes it more interesting! I love books on characters who have parts in other series!
I’m so excited to continue to see what’s in store for Elise and her sea of demons on their invasion to New Eden and what will become of Abram after what he’s done..
First of all... what the hell just happened! I was not expecting that at all!
I love this series! I have gotten addicted to Elise and James over the passed few months. I love how Rylies story intertwined with it. Makes it more interesting! I love books on characters who have parts in other series!
I’m so excited to continue to see what’s in store for Elise and her sea of demons on their invasion to New Eden and what will become of Abram after what he’s done..
June 1, 2018
Continued Fun
The series was beginning to drag a bit for me, but this book is making up for that. We made some good headway on this book, had more Elise, and James. I'm content with the plot and overall outcomes leading to the next book. I'm concerned there are two more books to go because I feel like at this point the story will go a little long by that point. But we shall see!
The series was beginning to drag a bit for me, but this book is making up for that. We made some good headway on this book, had more Elise, and James. I'm content with the plot and overall outcomes leading to the next book. I'm concerned there are two more books to go because I feel like at this point the story will go a little long by that point. But we shall see!
January 15, 2022
Riveting
Intricate with great character building. Couldn't stop reading. I love this series. S.M. Reine built a world I lose myself in with every reading and discover something new each time.
Intricate with great character building. Couldn't stop reading. I love this series. S.M. Reine built a world I lose myself in with every reading and discover something new each time.
October 23, 2020
Excellent
Forget Buffy, Elise is definitely much more bad ass and much more formidable. Loving this series, now to purchase and begin book 6...
Forget Buffy, Elise is definitely much more bad ass and much more formidable. Loving this series, now to purchase and begin book 6...
March 27, 2014
Elise Kavanagh, the demon called Godslayer, is having a hell of a time ruling Dis. Her efforts to restructure the infernal City, to convince the Houses to let go off their human slaves, are increasingly met with open resistance. It's not easy to change a society. Elise however is perfectly willing and prepared to use violence when and where necessary.
There’s dissent growing in her own ranks, too, and soon Elise has to face the threat of assassination in her own palace.
Elise is not the only one who has to deal with growing unrest, so does Rylie in her pack.
Not known for the quality of her decisions at the best of times, she made her probably worst decision when her mate Abel vanished, leaving the pack unprotected against an attack of a new breed of demon hybrids when she went in search after him.
The pack hasn’t forgot this, nor has Levi Riese, who rode in with Union forces to help them out. Having had made attempts to turn the pack against her before, Rylie’s now unwillingly delivered the arguments Levi needs to finally succeed.
Abel, though, has other ideas, if it’s up to him this fight is going to get settled once and for all – and certainly not in Levi’s favour. What he doesn’t know, is that he may have to face off against his own family to do so.
However, when Elise receives a mysterious message, urging her to investigate the disappearance of thousands of people and finds out that a werewolf may be involved in the goings on, the trail points to a common enemy that may be real source behind both their problems, for the pack and the Godslayer. An enemy that in order to defeat, may necessitate to shatter dimensions.
It is amazing how author S. M. Reine manages to surprise her readers with each new instalment for the Ascension series, setting the stakes for the finale ever higher. I simply love it, and my only gripe would currently be that reading goes too fast, and time between books too slow.
Well, that and the fact that there’s never enough Rylie, but that may be just as well as it keeps each meeting between her and Elise fresh. It’s always a delight to see these so vastly different women, the kick-ass demon and the lovely girlish Alpha werewolf, keep up their friendship.
In other news, I was a little saddened to see that one relationship I did have my hopes set for should not be, but even demons have to follow their heart I guess. And it is another one of those things I love about this series, Reine makes it impossible to guess where events will lead her characters next.
But no, before you ask, I do not come strictly for the romance, it’s just that those characters have grown very dear to me.
For the end, let me just say without being a spoiler:
You remember the words Nash left us with in the last book?
“...if Elise finds out—when she finds out—we will all pay for it."
Well, she does find out.
Leliel's secret is revealed in a shocking conclusion which I'm willing to bet you didn’t see coming.
*For new readers my usual disclaimer: Make sure to read the series in order, because the story of The Ascension series builds up stringently.
There’s dissent growing in her own ranks, too, and soon Elise has to face the threat of assassination in her own palace.
Elise is not the only one who has to deal with growing unrest, so does Rylie in her pack.
Not known for the quality of her decisions at the best of times, she made her probably worst decision when her mate Abel vanished, leaving the pack unprotected against an attack of a new breed of demon hybrids when she went in search after him.
The pack hasn’t forgot this, nor has Levi Riese, who rode in with Union forces to help them out. Having had made attempts to turn the pack against her before, Rylie’s now unwillingly delivered the arguments Levi needs to finally succeed.
Abel, though, has other ideas, if it’s up to him this fight is going to get settled once and for all – and certainly not in Levi’s favour. What he doesn’t know, is that he may have to face off against his own family to do so.
However, when Elise receives a mysterious message, urging her to investigate the disappearance of thousands of people and finds out that a werewolf may be involved in the goings on, the trail points to a common enemy that may be real source behind both their problems, for the pack and the Godslayer. An enemy that in order to defeat, may necessitate to shatter dimensions.
It is amazing how author S. M. Reine manages to surprise her readers with each new instalment for the Ascension series, setting the stakes for the finale ever higher. I simply love it, and my only gripe would currently be that reading goes too fast, and time between books too slow.
Well, that and the fact that there’s never enough Rylie, but that may be just as well as it keeps each meeting between her and Elise fresh. It’s always a delight to see these so vastly different women, the kick-ass demon and the lovely girlish Alpha werewolf, keep up their friendship.
In other news, I was a little saddened to see that one relationship I did have my hopes set for should not be, but even demons have to follow their heart I guess. And it is another one of those things I love about this series, Reine makes it impossible to guess where events will lead her characters next.
But no, before you ask, I do not come strictly for the romance, it’s just that those characters have grown very dear to me.
For the end, let me just say without being a spoiler:
You remember the words Nash left us with in the last book?
“...if Elise finds out—when she finds out—we will all pay for it."
Well, she does find out.
Leliel's secret is revealed in a shocking conclusion which I'm willing to bet you didn’t see coming.
*For new readers my usual disclaimer: Make sure to read the series in order, because the story of The Ascension series builds up stringently.
May 27, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. So let's go.
I hate that it took me so long to finish this book, because its really good. Such is the life of a college student. Anyway, Elise is now ruling Hell from the palace of Dis. She's making some not so popular changes and is facing her own problems in Hell. No wonder she hasn't noticed literally thousands of people going missing on Earth, but someone wants her to know.
This is probably one of my favorite books in the series thus far. I really enjoyed reading it and I am excited to see where it goes from here. Reine has a few story lines going in this book: Lincoln, the war, Elise’s reign in Hell, Summer and Abram.. I’m not sure she’s left so many avenues open before but I can’t wait to see how each storyline ends. I really enjoyed this book, even though James came back. (I am not a fan of that guy at all.) If you’ve read up until this point and are wondering if this book is worth your time, I definitely say yes. If you think you might be interested in this story, I would recommend going back to the beginning of the series or risk being very confused as to what exactly is going on. I really am enjoying the direction that Elise is going in, literally every review I think I’ve mentioned that while Elise is a character that can be enjoyed I’m not sure she can be liked, but I think she’s moving towards an area where I respect her even more. She’s as unyielding as ever, but we’re starting to see not a softer side to her, but a more moral side maybe? Before, I felt like Elise did her job because it was her job. End of story. Kill bad guy. Save human. Rinse. Repeat. Now, she seems to be thinking along more moral lines. She tried for a while to keep Lincoln ignorant of what she did to Adam, not because she thought it would make it hard for him to work with her, not because she didn’t want to talk about Adam, but because she wanted to let him hold onto something. That isn’t something old Elise would have even considered, she probably would have told him early in their relationship and intimidated him into working with her.
So basically: I’m enjoying where Elise’s progression is taking her, Abel continues to grow on me, Rylie is as always frustrating in her desire to be noble but I think that’s just me -I prefer Elise’s methods-, I still hate James, Lincoln is a bit frustrating yet inspiring in his ability to have faith, I want to smack Summer and Abram in the back of their heads and I’m still crying about Seth.
I hate that it took me so long to finish this book, because its really good. Such is the life of a college student. Anyway, Elise is now ruling Hell from the palace of Dis. She's making some not so popular changes and is facing her own problems in Hell. No wonder she hasn't noticed literally thousands of people going missing on Earth, but someone wants her to know.
This is probably one of my favorite books in the series thus far. I really enjoyed reading it and I am excited to see where it goes from here. Reine has a few story lines going in this book: Lincoln, the war, Elise’s reign in Hell, Summer and Abram.. I’m not sure she’s left so many avenues open before but I can’t wait to see how each storyline ends. I really enjoyed this book, even though James came back. (I am not a fan of that guy at all.) If you’ve read up until this point and are wondering if this book is worth your time, I definitely say yes. If you think you might be interested in this story, I would recommend going back to the beginning of the series or risk being very confused as to what exactly is going on. I really am enjoying the direction that Elise is going in, literally every review I think I’ve mentioned that while Elise is a character that can be enjoyed I’m not sure she can be liked, but I think she’s moving towards an area where I respect her even more. She’s as unyielding as ever, but we’re starting to see not a softer side to her, but a more moral side maybe? Before, I felt like Elise did her job because it was her job. End of story. Kill bad guy. Save human. Rinse. Repeat. Now, she seems to be thinking along more moral lines. She tried for a while to keep Lincoln ignorant of what she did to Adam, not because she thought it would make it hard for him to work with her, not because she didn’t want to talk about Adam, but because she wanted to let him hold onto something. That isn’t something old Elise would have even considered, she probably would have told him early in their relationship and intimidated him into working with her.
So basically: I’m enjoying where Elise’s progression is taking her, Abel continues to grow on me, Rylie is as always frustrating in her desire to be noble but I think that’s just me -I prefer Elise’s methods-, I still hate James, Lincoln is a bit frustrating yet inspiring in his ability to have faith, I want to smack Summer and Abram in the back of their heads and I’m still crying about Seth.
April 1, 2014
I received Lost in Prophecy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
What was the last book you read that made you think more than once WTH? I’ve actually had a couple in the past few weeks, but I can honestly say that Lost in Prophecy tops the list. So much happens in the 5th installment of the Ascension series that I’m not really sure where to start.
The plot thickens in Lost in Prophecy in a very big way. Both Rylie and Elise find out the hard way that places they thought were safe aren’t and people they thought they could trust, they can’t. Allies come from unexpected sources and even though some mysteries are solved, even more crop up. This was definitely a nail biter!
Lost in Prophecy was actually an action packed, jaw dropping turning point for a lot of characters. I can honestly say that a few things that happened I never saw coming, but looking back I probably should have. The thing is that so many things have happened in this series (as well as the series before this one) that it’s hard to keep track. That’s what I love about these books. S.M. Reine has created such an amazingly intricate world that it keeps you on your toes. It is definitely a re-read worthy series because I can guarantee that even though there isn’t a long wait between books (she writes really, really fast) I have either forgotten or missed something.
And yes, Lost in Prophecy did end in a cliff hanger, but even without that there was so much left unknown at the end of this book that I can’t wait to get my hands on the next one. Readers aren’t exactly sure how many books will be in the Ascension series but we know we can count on at least 7. There are a lot of loose ends that need to be tied up and there are a lot of characters whose fate hangs on some fairly loose threads. S.M. Reine has her work cut out for her, but I have no doubt she is up to the task.
What was the last book you read that made you think more than once WTH? I’ve actually had a couple in the past few weeks, but I can honestly say that Lost in Prophecy tops the list. So much happens in the 5th installment of the Ascension series that I’m not really sure where to start.
The plot thickens in Lost in Prophecy in a very big way. Both Rylie and Elise find out the hard way that places they thought were safe aren’t and people they thought they could trust, they can’t. Allies come from unexpected sources and even though some mysteries are solved, even more crop up. This was definitely a nail biter!
Lost in Prophecy was actually an action packed, jaw dropping turning point for a lot of characters. I can honestly say that a few things that happened I never saw coming, but looking back I probably should have. The thing is that so many things have happened in this series (as well as the series before this one) that it’s hard to keep track. That’s what I love about these books. S.M. Reine has created such an amazingly intricate world that it keeps you on your toes. It is definitely a re-read worthy series because I can guarantee that even though there isn’t a long wait between books (she writes really, really fast) I have either forgotten or missed something.
And yes, Lost in Prophecy did end in a cliff hanger, but even without that there was so much left unknown at the end of this book that I can’t wait to get my hands on the next one. Readers aren’t exactly sure how many books will be in the Ascension series but we know we can count on at least 7. There are a lot of loose ends that need to be tied up and there are a lot of characters whose fate hangs on some fairly loose threads. S.M. Reine has her work cut out for her, but I have no doubt she is up to the task.
August 9, 2016
The Ascension series is still going strong with book five. The story line is fantastic, and the details of the places that Ms. Reine takes us to in her books are things that I could never begin to imagine myself. The scenes are described so well that it is not hard to picture everything in my mind as I’m reading. This is a must read if you like urban fantasy, but I do recommend that you read the series in order.
Elise Kavanagh continues to release the slaves that are still in Dis, but it is more time consuming that she thought it would be. She hasn’t even noticed that things have gotten out of control on Earth until she is told that more than three thousand people are missing with no sign of when or how they disappeared. She’s received a long list of names and an extreme amount of money in her business account. She has no idea who is giving them to her, but she also knows that she cannot just walk away without finding out what is happening to all of these people.
Meanwhile, Rylie Gresham is having problems with her werewolf pack. Most of them are rebelling against her authority, and the trouble seems to be stemming from the cult that has taken over the town of Northgate. Abel realizes how dangerous things are becoming and decides that in order to protect Rylie he may have to override her decision and take control. As Elise and Rylie realize it’s a lot bigger than either one of them thought since they may be fighting the same enemy, they also realize this could be the end everything.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Elise Kavanagh continues to release the slaves that are still in Dis, but it is more time consuming that she thought it would be. She hasn’t even noticed that things have gotten out of control on Earth until she is told that more than three thousand people are missing with no sign of when or how they disappeared. She’s received a long list of names and an extreme amount of money in her business account. She has no idea who is giving them to her, but she also knows that she cannot just walk away without finding out what is happening to all of these people.
Meanwhile, Rylie Gresham is having problems with her werewolf pack. Most of them are rebelling against her authority, and the trouble seems to be stemming from the cult that has taken over the town of Northgate. Abel realizes how dangerous things are becoming and decides that in order to protect Rylie he may have to override her decision and take control. As Elise and Rylie realize it’s a lot bigger than either one of them thought since they may be fighting the same enemy, they also realize this could be the end everything.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2014
Holy wow. No joke, every book in this series raises the stakes for Elise, Rylie, and crew. Things go from bad to worse to OMFG!THE SKY IS FALLING IN A LITERAL SENSE AND EVERYBODY'S PROBABLY GOING TO DIE HORRIFICALLY!
I need to destress after reading these. Seriously. I get a little wound up.
Speaking of which, you know that point in a book where you can just see the bad thing coming and you want to shake some sense into a character or two, but even if you could, you know it wouldn't help? YEAH. THAT. BAD THINGS HAPPEN. Bad things that make me go all caps-locky. As you can see. There are several bad things that roar down like a freight train this time around. Abram and Summer and Nash and OMG! WHYYYYYYYY IS THIS HAPPENING???
I honestly can't see how Elise and crew are going to work their way out of all this without making the world implode in some way, shape, or form. Come to think of it, it could be argued the world has already done that. Anyway. Things are dark and dangerous right now and they can't trust anybody except their inner circle. We do get a few hints to future shenanigans with James and his broody magic. As usual, I'm torn about James. I like him. I understand where he's coming from most of the time. BUT... the path he chooses is a tough one. As many times as he's betrayed Elise... well, those two have a lot to work through, methinks.
To recap: Big things! DANGER!DANGER!DANGER! OMG!WTF?BBQPIZZQ-style shenanigans going on left and right. It's a big, glorious explosion of body parts and hunger and terrible things.
I think I might love it.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
I need to destress after reading these. Seriously. I get a little wound up.
Speaking of which, you know that point in a book where you can just see the bad thing coming and you want to shake some sense into a character or two, but even if you could, you know it wouldn't help? YEAH. THAT. BAD THINGS HAPPEN. Bad things that make me go all caps-locky. As you can see. There are several bad things that roar down like a freight train this time around. Abram and Summer and Nash and OMG! WHYYYYYYYY IS THIS HAPPENING???
I honestly can't see how Elise and crew are going to work their way out of all this without making the world implode in some way, shape, or form. Come to think of it, it could be argued the world has already done that. Anyway. Things are dark and dangerous right now and they can't trust anybody except their inner circle. We do get a few hints to future shenanigans with James and his broody magic. As usual, I'm torn about James. I like him. I understand where he's coming from most of the time. BUT... the path he chooses is a tough one. As many times as he's betrayed Elise... well, those two have a lot to work through, methinks.
To recap: Big things! DANGER!DANGER!DANGER! OMG!WTF?BBQPIZZQ-style shenanigans going on left and right. It's a big, glorious explosion of body parts and hunger and terrible things.
I think I might love it.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
April 25, 2014
If you've read SM Reine's The Descent series, you're familiar with Elise and James, the kopis and aspis who were forced apart from Elise being reborn as a demon and ruling Hell, and James becoming a half-angel Gray.
If you read her Seasons Of The Moon series, you know about the werewolf pack led by Rylie, the Alpha and The Apple.
If you haven't read them, warning: THIS REVIEW INCLUDES SPOILERS!!!
Elise is trying to get human slaves out of Hell. Rylie is trying to keep her pack from falling prey to Levi Riese's lies as he tries to take them over. Elise is being betrayed by her so-called allies. Rylie is being betrayed by her son, Abram.
Elise needs to help Rylie when the pack has mysteriously vanished, but tge pack are only 50 out of three thousand missing people she is searching for and she can't do it alone--she needs her aspis, James.
Old friends and enemies return and Hell and New Eden are shaken up in the latest engrossing story from Ms. Reine.
Reading Elise's stories are like reuniting with an old friend. She's one of my favorite fictional characters. Lost In Prophecy (the latest in The Ascension series) is a tantalizing story with depth and a new plot twist every so often. The cliffhanger ending is the icing on this bloody and delicious cake!
So wonderful to read! If you are new to her stories, you might find yourself a little lost, but even then, you will love this book!
5/5--great!
March 28, 2014
Well, at least I didn't finish this after midnight! This is non-stop action from beginning to end. I find myself panting a little from all the running, and fighting.
In fact, it is all that fighting that I found overwhelming. Though I love Elise Cavanaugh, I agree more with the pacifist, Rylie. Surely our kind of book would be boring with everyone just getting along. And, no doubt, this is the story the characters fed to the inkster, S.M. Reine. But, oh, my gosh! Can't I breathe a moment?
Once again, I longed for a character list as some folks are brought back that I couldn't place until they are explained in answer to others' questions. Still once I knew who they were I could understand why they were there.
This book left me feeling the cliffhanger. Maybe with all the books that came before, I could have handled it with some grace, but I have to wait until summer to find out what happens.
I have the first book of the next series lined up, but I am a little concerned that I need to finish the Ascension series before jumping into Preternatural Affairs. This has been a fun bunch of books to read. I love Sara's writing, very strong and in the moment.
Though this ARC was given to me for an honest review, I found very few problems. In fact, if there were errors I didn't notice as the story kept me going. Can't wait for summer!
In fact, it is all that fighting that I found overwhelming. Though I love Elise Cavanaugh, I agree more with the pacifist, Rylie. Surely our kind of book would be boring with everyone just getting along. And, no doubt, this is the story the characters fed to the inkster, S.M. Reine. But, oh, my gosh! Can't I breathe a moment?
Once again, I longed for a character list as some folks are brought back that I couldn't place until they are explained in answer to others' questions. Still once I knew who they were I could understand why they were there.
This book left me feeling the cliffhanger. Maybe with all the books that came before, I could have handled it with some grace, but I have to wait until summer to find out what happens.
I have the first book of the next series lined up, but I am a little concerned that I need to finish the Ascension series before jumping into Preternatural Affairs. This has been a fun bunch of books to read. I love Sara's writing, very strong and in the moment.
Though this ARC was given to me for an honest review, I found very few problems. In fact, if there were errors I didn't notice as the story kept me going. Can't wait for summer!
April 9, 2014
I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I have enjoyed all of S.M. Reine's stories up to this point but I'm feeling like this one should be wrapped up. This book seems to meander along without really having a destination in mind and some of the plot lines fizzle in and out again without a conclusion ever really happening.
I'm not sure what is going on with Rylie either anymore. I first 'met' Rylie in the Seasons of the Moon series and she was a good lead character - strong, independent and able to make decisions both instantaneously and intuitively. Now she seems to be second-guessing everything she does, needs a couple of years before she makes a decision and has got into the habit of biting her bottom lip every two minutes.
I think I'll stick with the series to see the conclusion but there are lots of outstanding questions that still need answering. I'd be amazed if it could all happen in one book so I'm guessing there will be a couple more at least. The one really good thing about the book is the storyline between Elise and James. That seems to be progressing in a more healthy direction but I can only wait to see the result of that too.
I have enjoyed all of S.M. Reine's stories up to this point but I'm feeling like this one should be wrapped up. This book seems to meander along without really having a destination in mind and some of the plot lines fizzle in and out again without a conclusion ever really happening.
I'm not sure what is going on with Rylie either anymore. I first 'met' Rylie in the Seasons of the Moon series and she was a good lead character - strong, independent and able to make decisions both instantaneously and intuitively. Now she seems to be second-guessing everything she does, needs a couple of years before she makes a decision and has got into the habit of biting her bottom lip every two minutes.
I think I'll stick with the series to see the conclusion but there are lots of outstanding questions that still need answering. I'd be amazed if it could all happen in one book so I'm guessing there will be a couple more at least. The one really good thing about the book is the storyline between Elise and James. That seems to be progressing in a more healthy direction but I can only wait to see the result of that too.
April 5, 2014
No one could say that Elise chose this life but she has accepted the cards she was dealt and just made the best of it. She has lost everything including her life once and trust is a hard thing for her to do. She is trying save Earth and free the human slaves from Dis but is thwarted at every turn. I love the unlikely friendship that she has with Rylie as they are both strong women in charge of the lives of others and must make the tough decisions. This book is action packed and keeps you turning the pages anxious to read the final page yet holding back because it will be over too soon. This book explores her strained relationship with James and his reluctance to accept the reality of who she is now and not some past memory of who she was before. Now that Seth is no longer a constant comparison in his life Abel is coming into his own yet sometimes we are born to repeat the mistakes of the past it seems. Truth be told I would rather take my chances with Elise in Dis than throw my lot in with the Angels. I can't wait to read the next book and I would highly recommend this series.
I received a copy of this e-book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this e-book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2014
Well this book totally just made me rethink everything about the werewolves. I seriously question the morality of some of the people in this book. They keep thinking that they are these great people, and they just aren't. What the hell are Nash and Summer thinking, and for that matter Abram! How do they get caught up in the lies? Abram who listens to Levi, even knowing the ulterior motives the Apple has. And Nash and Summer who think they're going to avoid a war?? HAHAHA, after what the angels are doing they deserve a war, and I think it's fitting that even the Eve part of Elise hates them and wants them to pay. Like at that point it becomes obvious, and I also can't blame Rylie and Abel for not standing with their kids. Also this is the first time in about 5 books that I haven't wanted to strangle James. I think that for the most part he's realizing what horrible decisions he's made and how he thought it was worth it, but it really isn't. I'm so bummed though because now I realize that I have to wait for the next book to come out, and I'm dying to know who has Elise in such a frenzy that she's going to war with the Angels! Ah, can't wait!
August 4, 2014
Reviewer: Lynn
Disclosure: This ebook was provided by the author in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
Elsie, a demon, is running hell. Things aren't going so great. Someone has betrayed her and someone is trying to assassinate her. Elsie is trying to free human slaves from hell. When she receives a message about the disappearance of three thousand people, she discovers that the werewolves may be behind the disappearances. Sallosa attempts to kill Elsie and fails but he does end up doing damage to her. Rylie, the packleader, is having problems of her own, someone is betraying her and her mate is missing.
The friendship between Elsie and Rylie seemed so unlikely but yet it works. I have to say the book is action packed and there is so much going on at times it seemed hard to keep up. Yet it holds your attention. Between Elsie and James there seemed like something more should be going on, but I guess they have to much history to get passed. He has betrayed her to many times. At times, it is hard to figure who is on what side, some seemed to bounce back and forth. Be warned, there is a major cliff hanger at the end.
Disclosure: This ebook was provided by the author in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
Elsie, a demon, is running hell. Things aren't going so great. Someone has betrayed her and someone is trying to assassinate her. Elsie is trying to free human slaves from hell. When she receives a message about the disappearance of three thousand people, she discovers that the werewolves may be behind the disappearances. Sallosa attempts to kill Elsie and fails but he does end up doing damage to her. Rylie, the packleader, is having problems of her own, someone is betraying her and her mate is missing.
The friendship between Elsie and Rylie seemed so unlikely but yet it works. I have to say the book is action packed and there is so much going on at times it seemed hard to keep up. Yet it holds your attention. Between Elsie and James there seemed like something more should be going on, but I guess they have to much history to get passed. He has betrayed her to many times. At times, it is hard to figure who is on what side, some seemed to bounce back and forth. Be warned, there is a major cliff hanger at the end.
April 29, 2014
Another awesome book!!!!!!!!
SM Reine is an amazing author who has kept me on this long journey I do not want to end. The way she has taken different series and combined them into one is outstanding. As each new book comes out you would think they would start to get boring but not with Reine. She still keeps me on my toes and leaves each book with an ending that makes you crave the next one.
lost in prophecy is a twist from what we normally see with this series. Some answers are finally answered while new questions are coming about. I recommend this book and series to any lover of urban fantasy but I also suggest you start with the Descent series first then Seasons of the Moon Series followed by The Cain Chronicles and then The Ascension Series. You do not need to read them in that order but I believe you will get a better understanding of the whole story if you do.
SM Reine is an amazing author who has kept me on this long journey I do not want to end. The way she has taken different series and combined them into one is outstanding. As each new book comes out you would think they would start to get boring but not with Reine. She still keeps me on my toes and leaves each book with an ending that makes you crave the next one.
lost in prophecy is a twist from what we normally see with this series. Some answers are finally answered while new questions are coming about. I recommend this book and series to any lover of urban fantasy but I also suggest you start with the Descent series first then Seasons of the Moon Series followed by The Cain Chronicles and then The Ascension Series. You do not need to read them in that order but I believe you will get a better understanding of the whole story if you do.
April 15, 2014
I can't get enough of this series (which makes me extremely happy to be receiving this book in exchange for a fair review)! Problems just keep popping up for Elise. She is doing her best to free the humans, but it seems they are also vanishing from hell and earth without a trace in addition to being enslaved in hell. The James/Elise equation is brought back in this book, and neither of them is sure what to do with the other as neither of them will budge on their needs. SM Reine packs her books full of action and takes you on a rollercoaster ride! And of course, at the end of the book you will always want to get right back on that coaster!
February 22, 2015
I love this series because I love the wolves and the long journey they have taken to be a pack and be "normal". This book took some twists I did not see coming including some disappearances and some relationships. An old friend comes back to help and haunt Elise. Rylie seems to have issues within herself on how to handle pack business, with her head or with her claws. This was not as action packed as other books have been but this one did give us some new points of view as well as some discoveries to questions of the past.
March 24, 2014
3.75 Stars
Lots of twists and turns in the latest Ascension series book! A big section of the novel is setup for something more for the next installment. Not sure how I feel about the cliffhanger ending, but I will say that I can't stop thinking about the possibilities. I love the multidimensional characters; nobody is all good or all bad. Looking forward to seeing how the plot plays out in the next one. Hoping Abram lets go of some of his adolescent anger too.
Lots of twists and turns in the latest Ascension series book! A big section of the novel is setup for something more for the next installment. Not sure how I feel about the cliffhanger ending, but I will say that I can't stop thinking about the possibilities. I love the multidimensional characters; nobody is all good or all bad. Looking forward to seeing how the plot plays out in the next one. Hoping Abram lets go of some of his adolescent anger too.
March 24, 2016
This book starts out a bit slow with pretty much one constant question through out it. Who is trying to kill Elise. However it picks up pace fast thanks to an anonymous benefactor returning Elise her obsidian falcon along with a mysterious note saying to check her email. When she finds out that humans are disappearing by the thousands she has to find out where and how.
Definitely one of the better reads of the series.
Definitely one of the better reads of the series.
July 21, 2014
Once again an absolutely stunning novel of epic proportions. What a journey through multiple worlds. The moral dilemma was just amazing. Although was it ever really a dilemma at all? I can not wait it find out how all the chess pieces come together and see what side everyone ends up on. For surely, all the twist and turns have hardly been revealed as Ms Riene is so very clever at holding us hostage to the end. I love these books.
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