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Guild Hunter #17
Archangel's Ascension
Aodhan and Illium. Adi and Blue. Sparkle and Bluebell. Friends become lovers, their future a wild unknown.
Finally reunited in New York, they must now learn to navigate the monumental shift in their relationship. But for these two members of Archangel Raphael’s legendary Seven, there is no time to rest. As they investigate a case for the Tower that echoes the darkness from Aodhan’s past, they will be forced to confront not only the scars that mark them both, but the promise of a vast power that flickers in Illium.
The threat of ascension has haunted and troubled Aodhan’s Blue for too long, the forces of change immutable and without mercy...and uncaring of Illium’s fierce wish to remain part of the Seven. Change is a constant in an immortal’s life, and this new horizon will bring with it both terrible heartbreak and a joy extraordinary enough to reverberate through time…
Finally reunited in New York, they must now learn to navigate the monumental shift in their relationship. But for these two members of Archangel Raphael’s legendary Seven, there is no time to rest. As they investigate a case for the Tower that echoes the darkness from Aodhan’s past, they will be forced to confront not only the scars that mark them both, but the promise of a vast power that flickers in Illium.
The threat of ascension has haunted and troubled Aodhan’s Blue for too long, the forces of change immutable and without mercy...and uncaring of Illium’s fierce wish to remain part of the Seven. Change is a constant in an immortal’s life, and this new horizon will bring with it both terrible heartbreak and a joy extraordinary enough to reverberate through time…
399 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 6, 2025
533 people are currently reading
6296 people want to read
About the author
Nalini Singh
248 books26.7k followersI've been writing as long as I can remember and all of my stories always held a thread of romance (even when I was writing about a prince who could shoot lasers out of his eyes). I love creating unique characters, love giving them happy endings and I even love the voices in my head. There's no other job I would rather be doing. In September 2002, when I got the call that Silhouette Desire wanted to buy my first book, Desert Warrior, it was a dream come true. I hope to continue living the dream until I keel over of old age on my keyboard.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 586 reviews
June 6, 2025
well i can confirm it is only a little bit bittersweet 👌🏻 but in a good way.
overall, it satisfied me more than their first book but at the same time i just wish nalini would just go for it with their love story and not handle the readers with kid gloves.
maybe it's only a minor gripe but the contrast is disturbing to me since i know how steamy and drawn out her usual m/f sex scenes are...while illium&aodhan only get fade to black scenes 😮💨 again, i feel like she didn't want to fully commit or was told to tone it down. it's displeasing for the only lgbtq couple (from this series) to get this treatment since it perpetuates the myth that non-heterosexual pairings are better "out of sight, left to the imagination", where they can bother no one with their queerness. annoying and disappointing.
_
this better not have some bittersweet ending for illium/aodhan because i will scream.
overall, it satisfied me more than their first book but at the same time i just wish nalini would just go for it with their love story and not handle the readers with kid gloves.
maybe it's only a minor gripe but the contrast is disturbing to me since i know how steamy and drawn out her usual m/f sex scenes are...while illium&aodhan only get fade to black scenes 😮💨 again, i feel like she didn't want to fully commit or was told to tone it down. it's displeasing for the only lgbtq couple (from this series) to get this treatment since it perpetuates the myth that non-heterosexual pairings are better "out of sight, left to the imagination", where they can bother no one with their queerness. annoying and disappointing.
_
this better not have some bittersweet ending for illium/aodhan because i will scream.
May 9, 2025
*Fair warning before reading this review, spoilers are ahead, but if you love some good spoilers and want to know what to expect, read this review*
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥 🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨✨
“Illium the bold. Illium the Courageous. Illium the brillaint,” Aodhan said, a slow smile lighting up his face. “Do you remember how we used to make up those titles for each other?”
“You forgot Illium the Favorite?” Illium grinned. “Aodhan the Bright, Aodhan the Loyal, Aodhan the Audacious,” They’d been so proud of thinking up the last word.
“Well, I have one more for you,” Aodhan cupped the side of his head, those artist’ fingers in Illium’s ahir. “Illium, the Determined, Archangel of his own destiny.”
First Impressions
Archangel’s Ascension is the newest installment in the Guild Hunter series and this book continues off, timing was from the latest installment, however, this is where we see the next phase into Illium and Aodhan’s story. I know that there was some readers that struggled with their first book together, because it wasn’t as spicy as many of her other books. Their relationship is not like any of her other couples and I really admire that she has handled their story so much differently. And even though we really see them come together fully as not just friends….but true mates, don’t expect a spicy book but you can expect to find a beautifully, deeply intimate story that will capture your heart. We also see a well developed mystery that comes into play which I actually get why this one was handled in the way that it was. We also have some flashbacks which we see two timelines which is the present from what we have known the series…..and then 700 years in the future (YEP ) and Nalini Singh developed it just so well.
“My Blue.” He brushed his fingers over Illium’s cheekbones. “I never thought you’d be shy.”
“Neither did I,” Illium muttered, because, despite his flaming cheeks, this, just lying here with Aodhan’s wing over his body while the other man touched his shoulders and chest as if discovering him for the first time, it felt good.
Felt right.
Felt like exactly where he was meant to be.
Summary
Aodhan and Illium…Sparkle and Bluebell have gone from centuries of being friends to something deeper. They are now reunited fully in New York, Bluebell has just returned from traveling to reunite with his sire and most important connect with his sparkle….his Aodhan. They are both members of Rafael’s Seven and have embraced their roles completely. But there is a mystery that has arisen when one of their own has been murdered, and they must find the culprit and it hits close to home as evidence has come out that it was a stalker situation that makes the past of Aodhan come to the surface in a very painful way. But as Adohan and Illium learn to come to the truth and embrace this new chapter in their relationship….there is also change happening in the future that will push the boundaries of their relationship and their lives ….forever.
“You are extraordinary,” Illium whispered, pressing a kiss to the diamond bright strands of Aodhan’s hair as heat stung his eyes.
I love you. More than air and sunlight, more than the sky or art.
Illium’s entire being felt as if it had shifted this night, undergoing a fundamental change from which there could never be any return.
What I Loved
Archangel’s Ascension is one of the most brilliant installments of the series and not only that is one of the best books that this author has ever crafted. I can’t express how wonderful this story was and how thrilled I was to finally get the conclusion for Aodhan and Illium. While I adored Archange’s Light ….Archangel’s Ascension is where we really see their story truly come together in such a epic finale that captures the soul. There are many elements that are brought to the surface within this story.
Pleasure came in many forms, and this night, they found the pleasure available only to two winged beings who knew each other’s most sensitive spots, two combat-ready fighters who understood their bodies inside and out, two lovers who were ready to touch and adore and learn, two aroused men who had no limits with each other, two friends who loved above all else.
It was love, and it was transcendent.
Illium has returned to New York after some traveling, he and Aodhan and learning to be together as more than just centuries long childhood friends. This is where they learn to let go and embrace their next chapter. The intimacy between them is beyond beautiful. You see their closeness, the sensuality and the affection that is so deeply entrenched in their hearts. And while our couple is learning what it means to be together in this new way, they are tasked to solve a riddle….a murder mystery that involved a newer vampire and his fiancée who were murdered by his stalker. We see how this pushes the recovery that Aodhan has worked so hard to rebuilt from his time as being stalked and kidnapped and abused in some of the worst ways. We see as they work slowly to solve the mystery, that we see their connection working through and being built into something just as deep but a different path than what they have walked in the past. There is such beauty and light that is brought into their relationship and I was so deeply touched in their quiet moments together and seeing their intimate bond grow into such a crescendo that was brilliantly penned that was transformative and stunning in its emotional detail.
The next phase is where we see the flashbacks into the future which I rarely see to be honest. But I found it refreshing. Although these flashbacks don’t truly start until the last 1/3 of the story. Where we see what we all have been anticipating for many books….to see our darling Bluebell….our Illium face his destiny and ascend into an archangel and become one of the most powerful beings on earth. We see how his destiny comes for him and the results of that. How his destiny and his life will change forever….how he will never be able to serve his sire again, and be with Elena, or to visit his mother, but will need to embrace who he was meant to be and change what is to be expected. And how his journey into this bright new chapter will deliver changes for him and might push some challenges between him and Aodhan but also between himself and everyone he has ever known. The moments between him and all of our favorite characters struck deep and was so heart-wrenching. But we also see how well he embraces his future, see how their relationship becomes so much more vibrant in the face of this new change. And it leaves off with a Happy For Now feeling and I hope we get another book with them together, to see how Bluebell will maneuver his way into his new position and his territory.
*Our task now,* he added, *is to be friends as we have never before been.* Raphael lifted his hands, his palms and fingers coated with Illium golden rain, his skin a gloaming of mystery. *You know we will lose them both?* They were a pair, had always been a pair.
Illium and Aodhan.
Sparkle and Bluebell.
Archangel and Second.
What I Struggled With
Nothing ….this book was pure perfection in every way!!!
Overall View
Archangel’s Ascension is a book that will carry its reader to new heights of light filled connection, embracing new chapters of beginnings and the brilliance of love that fills the soul in every facet with such shining intricate vibrancy…..A GEM OF DAZZLING LOVE THAT HITS DEEP ON THE SOUL!
“You’re dazzling,” he whispered.
“And you’re mine. I’ll fight for you even against the power of ascension.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance
Character Types: Alpha Hero, Angels, Tortured Hero, Warrior/Soldier
Themes: Tear Jerker, Heart/Emotionally Touching, Holy Grail Mystery
Tropes: Epic Love
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Plot Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Christine Feehan
Patricia Briggs
Gena Showalter
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥 🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨✨
“Illium the bold. Illium the Courageous. Illium the brillaint,” Aodhan said, a slow smile lighting up his face. “Do you remember how we used to make up those titles for each other?”
“You forgot Illium the Favorite?” Illium grinned. “Aodhan the Bright, Aodhan the Loyal, Aodhan the Audacious,” They’d been so proud of thinking up the last word.
“Well, I have one more for you,” Aodhan cupped the side of his head, those artist’ fingers in Illium’s ahir. “Illium, the Determined, Archangel of his own destiny.”
First Impressions
Archangel’s Ascension is the newest installment in the Guild Hunter series and this book continues off, timing was from the latest installment, however, this is where we see the next phase into Illium and Aodhan’s story. I know that there was some readers that struggled with their first book together, because it wasn’t as spicy as many of her other books. Their relationship is not like any of her other couples and I really admire that she has handled their story so much differently. And even though we really see them come together fully as not just friends….but true mates, don’t expect a spicy book but you can expect to find a beautifully, deeply intimate story that will capture your heart. We also see a well developed mystery that comes into play which I actually get why this one was handled in the way that it was. We also have some flashbacks which we see two timelines which is the present from what we have known the series…..and then 700 years in the future (YEP ) and Nalini Singh developed it just so well.
“My Blue.” He brushed his fingers over Illium’s cheekbones. “I never thought you’d be shy.”
“Neither did I,” Illium muttered, because, despite his flaming cheeks, this, just lying here with Aodhan’s wing over his body while the other man touched his shoulders and chest as if discovering him for the first time, it felt good.
Felt right.
Felt like exactly where he was meant to be.
Summary
Aodhan and Illium…Sparkle and Bluebell have gone from centuries of being friends to something deeper. They are now reunited fully in New York, Bluebell has just returned from traveling to reunite with his sire and most important connect with his sparkle….his Aodhan. They are both members of Rafael’s Seven and have embraced their roles completely. But there is a mystery that has arisen when one of their own has been murdered, and they must find the culprit and it hits close to home as evidence has come out that it was a stalker situation that makes the past of Aodhan come to the surface in a very painful way. But as Adohan and Illium learn to come to the truth and embrace this new chapter in their relationship….there is also change happening in the future that will push the boundaries of their relationship and their lives ….forever.
“You are extraordinary,” Illium whispered, pressing a kiss to the diamond bright strands of Aodhan’s hair as heat stung his eyes.
I love you. More than air and sunlight, more than the sky or art.
Illium’s entire being felt as if it had shifted this night, undergoing a fundamental change from which there could never be any return.
What I Loved
Archangel’s Ascension is one of the most brilliant installments of the series and not only that is one of the best books that this author has ever crafted. I can’t express how wonderful this story was and how thrilled I was to finally get the conclusion for Aodhan and Illium. While I adored Archange’s Light ….Archangel’s Ascension is where we really see their story truly come together in such a epic finale that captures the soul. There are many elements that are brought to the surface within this story.
Pleasure came in many forms, and this night, they found the pleasure available only to two winged beings who knew each other’s most sensitive spots, two combat-ready fighters who understood their bodies inside and out, two lovers who were ready to touch and adore and learn, two aroused men who had no limits with each other, two friends who loved above all else.
It was love, and it was transcendent.
Illium has returned to New York after some traveling, he and Aodhan and learning to be together as more than just centuries long childhood friends. This is where they learn to let go and embrace their next chapter. The intimacy between them is beyond beautiful. You see their closeness, the sensuality and the affection that is so deeply entrenched in their hearts. And while our couple is learning what it means to be together in this new way, they are tasked to solve a riddle….a murder mystery that involved a newer vampire and his fiancée who were murdered by his stalker. We see how this pushes the recovery that Aodhan has worked so hard to rebuilt from his time as being stalked and kidnapped and abused in some of the worst ways. We see as they work slowly to solve the mystery, that we see their connection working through and being built into something just as deep but a different path than what they have walked in the past. There is such beauty and light that is brought into their relationship and I was so deeply touched in their quiet moments together and seeing their intimate bond grow into such a crescendo that was brilliantly penned that was transformative and stunning in its emotional detail.
The next phase is where we see the flashbacks into the future which I rarely see to be honest. But I found it refreshing. Although these flashbacks don’t truly start until the last 1/3 of the story. Where we see what we all have been anticipating for many books….to see our darling Bluebell….our Illium face his destiny and ascend into an archangel and become one of the most powerful beings on earth. We see how his destiny comes for him and the results of that. How his destiny and his life will change forever….how he will never be able to serve his sire again, and be with Elena, or to visit his mother, but will need to embrace who he was meant to be and change what is to be expected. And how his journey into this bright new chapter will deliver changes for him and might push some challenges between him and Aodhan but also between himself and everyone he has ever known. The moments between him and all of our favorite characters struck deep and was so heart-wrenching. But we also see how well he embraces his future, see how their relationship becomes so much more vibrant in the face of this new change. And it leaves off with a Happy For Now feeling and I hope we get another book with them together, to see how Bluebell will maneuver his way into his new position and his territory.
*Our task now,* he added, *is to be friends as we have never before been.* Raphael lifted his hands, his palms and fingers coated with Illium golden rain, his skin a gloaming of mystery. *You know we will lose them both?* They were a pair, had always been a pair.
Illium and Aodhan.
Sparkle and Bluebell.
Archangel and Second.
What I Struggled With
Nothing ….this book was pure perfection in every way!!!
Overall View
Archangel’s Ascension is a book that will carry its reader to new heights of light filled connection, embracing new chapters of beginnings and the brilliance of love that fills the soul in every facet with such shining intricate vibrancy…..A GEM OF DAZZLING LOVE THAT HITS DEEP ON THE SOUL!
“You’re dazzling,” he whispered.
“And you’re mine. I’ll fight for you even against the power of ascension.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance
Character Types: Alpha Hero, Angels, Tortured Hero, Warrior/Soldier
Themes: Tear Jerker, Heart/Emotionally Touching, Holy Grail Mystery
Tropes: Epic Love
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Plot Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Christine Feehan
Patricia Briggs
Gena Showalter
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes
August 27, 2025
Maybe it’s just me, but if a series consists of each book featuring a different M/F couple and just one M/M couple - but the M/M book is more of a “clean” romance than all the M/F books - that’s weird, right? Besides that, this book’s plot kind of bored me. There’s a mystery where the villain very quickly confesses, and that’s at the half way mark of the book. The rest of the book is snippets featuring other characters besides the main couple. This felt more like a final book of a series, even though it’s not. But this will be the final book for me.
March 15, 2025
What is there to say about a book that had such high expectations and just nailed the landing on every single level? Can I give this book more than 5 stars? I sure would like to. I came to this series late, a full decade after the publication of the first book. And in my glomming of this series, I had been shipping Bluebell and Sparkle since the moment they stepped onto the page. Normally friends to lovers aren’t my favorite trope but I think we can all agree that this is not an ordinary series and the friendship of Blue and his Adi is no ordinary friendship. They are, as this book states so beautifully, each other’s hearts mirror.
It's been 4 literal years since Nalini gave us Archangel’s Light which ended with Illium and Aodhan finally (FINALLY!) taking the next step in their very complicated relationship and acknowledging that their feelings run much deeper than those of best friends. We have brief mention of them last year’s Archangel Lineage where they are in a committed relationship but it’s really this book that cements them as a pairing for the ages in the world of angels and vampires.
Alongside their will they or won’t they relationship, there’s also been the question of if or when Illium will ascend to become an Archangel, especially since the events of the Cascade (several books ago).
The evolution of Bluebell and Sparkle in this particular book is so sweet, it almost feels like a love letter to all the fans who have been clamoring for this pairing for years. It’s especially bittersweet to me because I came to this series at the urging of my very dear friend, Melinda Utendorf who absolutely loved this series and loved the pairing of Illium and Aodhan. She passed away in 2024 and as I was reading this book, I had this intense urge to message her about it, as I had done with so many of the books in this series. We read several of the later books in this series together and even co-wrote a review for Archangel’s Light and I'm truly so devastated that she never got to see this pairing come to its fruition in this book.
There’s a lot in this book that I loved, but I especially loved that at its core, it has always been a story of found family. Raphael, his Seven, the relationships between them and then with their respective mates, Elena and her friends, the special connection she had with Bluebell, it all just really moved me especially because this book spans multiples hundreds of years and some of these friends are mortal beings and thus, there’s a lot of loss and grief attached to this story. There are parts of this story that really moved me but none more so than when Illium finally ascends and his first interaction afterwards with Raphael, his Rafa, his sire. I was literally weeping and then again, when he was saying his goodbyes because he could never again be there the way he was before. It’s a big change and it feels like what this series has been building to the whole time but especially since the big war with Lijuan and the Cascade.
I said this with the last book and I’ll repeat myself with this one, I do think Nalini is close to wrapping up the series. Parts of this book felt very final in a way to me, but the final chapter also felt like she is maybe gearing up for a spinoff series that might focus on Illium’s territory. But whatever she chooses to do with this series, I’ll definitely read it.
ARC from publisher, review is all mine
It's been 4 literal years since Nalini gave us Archangel’s Light which ended with Illium and Aodhan finally (FINALLY!) taking the next step in their very complicated relationship and acknowledging that their feelings run much deeper than those of best friends. We have brief mention of them last year’s Archangel Lineage where they are in a committed relationship but it’s really this book that cements them as a pairing for the ages in the world of angels and vampires.
Alongside their will they or won’t they relationship, there’s also been the question of if or when Illium will ascend to become an Archangel, especially since the events of the Cascade (several books ago).
The evolution of Bluebell and Sparkle in this particular book is so sweet, it almost feels like a love letter to all the fans who have been clamoring for this pairing for years. It’s especially bittersweet to me because I came to this series at the urging of my very dear friend, Melinda Utendorf who absolutely loved this series and loved the pairing of Illium and Aodhan. She passed away in 2024 and as I was reading this book, I had this intense urge to message her about it, as I had done with so many of the books in this series. We read several of the later books in this series together and even co-wrote a review for Archangel’s Light and I'm truly so devastated that she never got to see this pairing come to its fruition in this book.
There’s a lot in this book that I loved, but I especially loved that at its core, it has always been a story of found family. Raphael, his Seven, the relationships between them and then with their respective mates, Elena and her friends, the special connection she had with Bluebell, it all just really moved me especially because this book spans multiples hundreds of years and some of these friends are mortal beings and thus, there’s a lot of loss and grief attached to this story. There are parts of this story that really moved me but none more so than when Illium finally ascends and his first interaction afterwards with Raphael, his Rafa, his sire. I was literally weeping and then again, when he was saying his goodbyes because he could never again be there the way he was before. It’s a big change and it feels like what this series has been building to the whole time but especially since the big war with Lijuan and the Cascade.
I said this with the last book and I’ll repeat myself with this one, I do think Nalini is close to wrapping up the series. Parts of this book felt very final in a way to me, but the final chapter also felt like she is maybe gearing up for a spinoff series that might focus on Illium’s territory. But whatever she chooses to do with this series, I’ll definitely read it.
ARC from publisher, review is all mine
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2025
The Guild Hunter series is set in an alternate version of our world, where vampires and humans are ruled by angels, the most powerful being the Cadre comprised of Archangels. “Beautiful. Deadly. Sometimes cruel. Always unpredictable.��� It’s a bit action, a bit political/court intrigue, and always romance. Each book tends to focus on a different couple, although most characters reappear as regulars.
Archangel’s Ascension was disappointing to me. I enjoy this series for what it is – fast paced, fun, a little sexy, never taking itself too seriously. But this one just didn’t hit the mark for me, and while irrelevant to the quality of the story, I REALLY don’t like this cover.
As the title gives away, it’s finally Illium’s time to shine, and he and Aodhan have to navigate the changes. We shift back and forth in time, between the current “present” the rest of the series has been set in, and a much farther future. There was a bit of a murder mystery in the first half, but the first three quarters of the book focused heavily on Illium and Aodhan’s new secret romance, and it felt repetitive, like I was being hit over the head with a 2x4 to make sure I understood how ASTONISHING his eyes were and how TORTURED and BROKEN they felt, and how they would DIE for each other and etc etc.
It wasn’t until the last quarter that I got really interested, and I realized that the real draw of these books has never been the romance, but the world building and the court politics of the Cadre. I love the scheming, the spying, the tug of war of power that the angels partake in. A new Archangel has to set up his court, figure out how to establish himself as a power among the Cadre, and navigate the political waters? Yes! THIS is what I read these books for.
All in all it was perfectly fine, but not my favorite in the series and I hope we get a little more focus on the political side of the game in the next book.
Thank you Netgalley and Berkley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.
Archangel’s Ascension was disappointing to me. I enjoy this series for what it is – fast paced, fun, a little sexy, never taking itself too seriously. But this one just didn’t hit the mark for me, and while irrelevant to the quality of the story, I REALLY don’t like this cover.
As the title gives away, it’s finally Illium’s time to shine, and he and Aodhan have to navigate the changes. We shift back and forth in time, between the current “present” the rest of the series has been set in, and a much farther future. There was a bit of a murder mystery in the first half, but the first three quarters of the book focused heavily on Illium and Aodhan’s new secret romance, and it felt repetitive, like I was being hit over the head with a 2x4 to make sure I understood how ASTONISHING his eyes were and how TORTURED and BROKEN they felt, and how they would DIE for each other and etc etc.
It wasn’t until the last quarter that I got really interested, and I realized that the real draw of these books has never been the romance, but the world building and the court politics of the Cadre. I love the scheming, the spying, the tug of war of power that the angels partake in. A new Archangel has to set up his court, figure out how to establish himself as a power among the Cadre, and navigate the political waters? Yes! THIS is what I read these books for.
All in all it was perfectly fine, but not my favorite in the series and I hope we get a little more focus on the political side of the game in the next book.
Thank you Netgalley and Berkley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.
May 12, 2025
Love the series, liked the book, it’s great, things were handled in a way I appreciated, and I was so relieved that most of the chapters were set in the present.
Why? Because I have to say that, even if I liked it, I have conflicting feelings. This is not a comment about the quality of the book, like I said, it’s really good, this is purely a me thing: we always knew certain things were going to happen in the future, Illium ascension, him and Aodhan leaving the Seven (😭) and Elena’s family and friends dying as time goes by while her and the other immortals keep living, but I never actually wanted to read about those things, I’m fine staying in the present. Illium has such a deep bond with Raphael and he never wanted to leave, we are reminded of that again and again, and without him and Aodhan the group will never work the same, it’s heartbreaking, I don’t want to jump to that point. Like I said, it’s just the way I feel, it’s very subjective, there’s nothing wrong with the book itself.
About how Illium ascension was done, sad but touching and beautiful, as it can be when starting a new chapter, because things in life change and you have to adapt and build something new; so I had a messy relationship with the story, alternating between moments where I made my peace with it and others where I didn’t (I understand what NS is doing, I just still think I prefer to keep it as something that is far in the future).
That said, I really like Illium and Aodhan, they’re cute, there are nice moments with other characters and I liked the murder investigation, Nalini is always great at creating an engaging vertical plot, following the case and our beloved characters, characters that I know so well and feel real, brought me back into a familiar world and made me feel it again, just like going home. I just love all of them very much, love to see them interact, such comfort characters.
Random thoughts: Illium is a joy, the best after my favorites, Raphael and Elena (my otp and their books are superior);
Good interactions between Aodhan and Dmitri who share a similar trauma;
Illium remembering his cat dying days was just a line and was making me cry… animals always get me;
The scene between Illium and Raphael after the ascension is beautiful beyond words
A shuddering breath, before Illium inclined his head. “The glamour is up?”
Raphael nodded. “I can drop it—”
“No, let me do this one last time.” Then Illium went down on one knee after drawing his sword from the scabbard on his back and laying it across his knee. His wings were draped with precision for a formal bow, his head lowered, and his fist at his heart. “For all that you have done for me, for all that you have been to me, for all that you have taught me, there are no words enough to thank you, but thank you I do, sire.”
Love to read about Cadre meetings, always had, always will;
Elena and Illium friendship 🤩
This: “Naasir’s firstborn cub has informed me that he’s aiming to join the Seven when he’s of age.” Dmitri rubbed his forehead. “The Ancestors help us all.”
I need to say something else, I feel like this series should end; the books are still good, I love the series to pieces and will miss the characters so much, but at the same time it kind of already said everything that it wanted to say for a while, and I say this as a big fan of the series, it’s one of my favorites and I have been reading it from 10 years. The series storyline ended with Archangel’s War, the following books closed some loose ends but nothing more is needed I feel like, so I do hope the next one is the last, maybe more centered on Elena and Raphael with something for everyone else too, to check in and say goodbye to everyone, I will cry but it’s time.
Like I already said, love the series, one of my favorites, this is just my opinion.
Why? Because I have to say that, even if I liked it, I have conflicting feelings. This is not a comment about the quality of the book, like I said, it’s really good, this is purely a me thing: we always knew certain things were going to happen in the future, Illium ascension, him and Aodhan leaving the Seven (😭) and Elena’s family and friends dying as time goes by while her and the other immortals keep living, but I never actually wanted to read about those things, I’m fine staying in the present. Illium has such a deep bond with Raphael and he never wanted to leave, we are reminded of that again and again, and without him and Aodhan the group will never work the same, it’s heartbreaking, I don’t want to jump to that point. Like I said, it’s just the way I feel, it’s very subjective, there’s nothing wrong with the book itself.
About how Illium ascension was done, sad but touching and beautiful, as it can be when starting a new chapter, because things in life change and you have to adapt and build something new; so I had a messy relationship with the story, alternating between moments where I made my peace with it and others where I didn’t (I understand what NS is doing, I just still think I prefer to keep it as something that is far in the future).
That said, I really like Illium and Aodhan, they’re cute, there are nice moments with other characters and I liked the murder investigation, Nalini is always great at creating an engaging vertical plot, following the case and our beloved characters, characters that I know so well and feel real, brought me back into a familiar world and made me feel it again, just like going home. I just love all of them very much, love to see them interact, such comfort characters.
Random thoughts: Illium is a joy, the best after my favorites, Raphael and Elena (my otp and their books are superior);
Good interactions between Aodhan and Dmitri who share a similar trauma;
Illium remembering his cat dying days was just a line and was making me cry… animals always get me;
The scene between Illium and Raphael after the ascension is beautiful beyond words
A shuddering breath, before Illium inclined his head. “The glamour is up?”
Raphael nodded. “I can drop it—”
“No, let me do this one last time.” Then Illium went down on one knee after drawing his sword from the scabbard on his back and laying it across his knee. His wings were draped with precision for a formal bow, his head lowered, and his fist at his heart. “For all that you have done for me, for all that you have been to me, for all that you have taught me, there are no words enough to thank you, but thank you I do, sire.”
Love to read about Cadre meetings, always had, always will;
Elena and Illium friendship 🤩
This: “Naasir’s firstborn cub has informed me that he’s aiming to join the Seven when he’s of age.” Dmitri rubbed his forehead. “The Ancestors help us all.”
I need to say something else, I feel like this series should end; the books are still good, I love the series to pieces and will miss the characters so much, but at the same time it kind of already said everything that it wanted to say for a while, and I say this as a big fan of the series, it’s one of my favorites and I have been reading it from 10 years. The series storyline ended with Archangel’s War, the following books closed some loose ends but nothing more is needed I feel like, so I do hope the next one is the last, maybe more centered on Elena and Raphael with something for everyone else too, to check in and say goodbye to everyone, I will cry but it’s time.
Like I already said, love the series, one of my favorites, this is just my opinion.
May 8, 2025
Thanks to Berkley and Netgalley for providing me with a pre-release copy of Archangel's Ascension by Nalini Singh. Below you'll find my honest review.
More Bluebell! More Sparkle! Murder! Intrigue! Overly lovey-dovey swooning! Ascension! This book has it all.
I'm really interested in seeing where the series goes now, as there are some serious waves being made in the world of Guild Hunter, and a LOT has changed because of this book.
I don't want to spoil much, but this one has multiple timelines running through it, and it jumps around to tell different parts of different storylines.
I'm a little disappointed that yet again, the steamy parts are left out of the Illium/Aodhan books, whereas all the heterosexual couples get... details.. and the two Illium/Aodhan books get allusions to things happening. But I guess I understand it.
Anywho, this one has a lot of built up information culminating from a book series in the double digits, so you're doing yourself a disservice if you jump right in with this one.
Definitely recommended for paranormal romance, fantasy romance, angels/vampires, etc.
More Bluebell! More Sparkle! Murder! Intrigue! Overly lovey-dovey swooning! Ascension! This book has it all.
I'm really interested in seeing where the series goes now, as there are some serious waves being made in the world of Guild Hunter, and a LOT has changed because of this book.
I don't want to spoil much, but this one has multiple timelines running through it, and it jumps around to tell different parts of different storylines.
I'm a little disappointed that yet again, the steamy parts are left out of the Illium/Aodhan books, whereas all the heterosexual couples get... details.. and the two Illium/Aodhan books get allusions to things happening. But I guess I understand it.
Anywho, this one has a lot of built up information culminating from a book series in the double digits, so you're doing yourself a disservice if you jump right in with this one.
Definitely recommended for paranormal romance, fantasy romance, angels/vampires, etc.
May 9, 2025
We know Illium fell in love with and took a human lover. After Illium told her a forbidden secret, Raphael stripped Illium of his feathers as punishment and he suffered a broken heart ever since.
We know Illium has been super fascinated with Elena and her humanity. He has flirted with her multiple times, some argue platonic and others argue romantic. Regardless, there has never been any hint of him at any point being bi.
“Why did you damage someone so beautiful? Jealous?” Something sparked in his eyes, hot and certainly lethal if let out. “You would have little interest in Illium. He likes his women submissive.” - Archangels Blood
“Give Illium the majority of the shifts. Elena’s less likely to object to him.” Dmitri snorted. “Her precious Bluebell’s going to fall in love with her, and then you’ll have to kill him.” “What better guard for Elena than one who loves her?” - Archangels Kiss
“As for your Bluebell, his heart is already yours.” Her fingers clenched on the belt. “Raphael, he’s not truly . . . not that way, is he?” She couldn’t bear to hurt Illium. “I think,” Raphael said, as the night wind brought with it the whispering promise of snow, “Illium needs to heal and you are safe.” - Archangels Legion
Now you mean to tell me Illium/Aodhan has been in the making ever since they were children? It feels like the author had other plans for her characters but due to the growing popularity of this particular ship she had no other choice but to change the story to accommodate the growing amount of Illium/Aodhan shippers. It's been stated countless times before that these two characters are like brothers. NS has stated multiple times that they're just friends. This is JK Rowling all over again. MM/FF/MF relationships should be well-written, not a result of an afterthought.
We know Illium has been super fascinated with Elena and her humanity. He has flirted with her multiple times, some argue platonic and others argue romantic. Regardless, there has never been any hint of him at any point being bi.
“Why did you damage someone so beautiful? Jealous?” Something sparked in his eyes, hot and certainly lethal if let out. “You would have little interest in Illium. He likes his women submissive.” - Archangels Blood
“Give Illium the majority of the shifts. Elena’s less likely to object to him.” Dmitri snorted. “Her precious Bluebell’s going to fall in love with her, and then you’ll have to kill him.” “What better guard for Elena than one who loves her?” - Archangels Kiss
“As for your Bluebell, his heart is already yours.” Her fingers clenched on the belt. “Raphael, he’s not truly . . . not that way, is he?” She couldn’t bear to hurt Illium. “I think,” Raphael said, as the night wind brought with it the whispering promise of snow, “Illium needs to heal and you are safe.” - Archangels Legion
Now you mean to tell me Illium/Aodhan has been in the making ever since they were children? It feels like the author had other plans for her characters but due to the growing popularity of this particular ship she had no other choice but to change the story to accommodate the growing amount of Illium/Aodhan shippers. It's been stated countless times before that these two characters are like brothers. NS has stated multiple times that they're just friends. This is JK Rowling all over again. MM/FF/MF relationships should be well-written, not a result of an afterthought.
May 9, 2025
Although not the last book in the series, it still feels like a goodbye and I don’t want it to ever end! So bittersweet, Adi & Blue forever 🤍💙
I loved it. Some parts gutted me. I haven’t cried this much since forever. Loved it all.
I loved it. Some parts gutted me. I haven’t cried this much since forever. Loved it all.
May 7, 2025
(EDIT 2 : BABES WAKE UP. We got a blurb !
"New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh takes us back to her breathtakingly passionate Guild Hunter World, where an impending transformation will be both an ending and a beginning…
Aodhan and Illium. Adi and Blue. Sparkle and Bluebell. Friends become lovers, their future a wild unknown.
Finally reunited in New York, they must now learn to navigate the monumental shift in their relationship. But for these two members of Archangel Raphael’s legendary Seven, there is no time to rest. As they investigate a case for the Tower that echoes the darkness from Aodhan’s past, they will be forced to confront not only the scars that mark them both, but the promise of a vast power that flickers in Illium.
The threat of ascension has haunted and troubled Aodhan’s Blue for too long, the forces of change immutable and without mercy...and uncaring of Illium’s fierce wish to remain part of the Seven. Change is a constant in an immortal’s life, and this new horizon will bring with it both terrible heartbreak and a joy extraordinary enough to reverberate through time…")
(EDIT : Giving this 5 stars cause the uglies are back for some reason, and as usual they yapping)
Poping up in this cursed place because I promised to myself & the world that I would for this highly, very highly anticipated sequel to Blue & Adi's story. Took years and forever, but here we are.
One point though, that I did not, in fact, see coming. While everyone with basic reading comprehension skills could clearly see that Illium would ascend, I was actually not expecting for the series and us, to see it.
I genuinely didn't think we would witness the 7 being broken up (especially with the last book) because Illium is real young in immortal years, so that would have mean, placing the book *very* far in the futur.
Maybe that explains the last book then ? It was a goodbye to the mortal characters we've known and won't get to see again.
Honestly, guess I thought that their next book would be kind of a showdown between them and Illium's genitor. That, or otherwise, the beginning of a new arc, with introduction of a new mega threat/villain, which would lead to more books to overcome it.
That may still be it, but I doubt it, because of Singh's announcement that the series is close to the end.
Also another point : not sure I like what the cover implies ? Or maybe I'm just not in a optimistic mood. Though, I know it'll be an happy ending because it always is, but for the love of baby otters everywhere, let it not be lack of communication trope like the last book.
Anyway.
Let's go May 2025.
"New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh takes us back to her breathtakingly passionate Guild Hunter World, where an impending transformation will be both an ending and a beginning…
Aodhan and Illium. Adi and Blue. Sparkle and Bluebell. Friends become lovers, their future a wild unknown.
Finally reunited in New York, they must now learn to navigate the monumental shift in their relationship. But for these two members of Archangel Raphael’s legendary Seven, there is no time to rest. As they investigate a case for the Tower that echoes the darkness from Aodhan’s past, they will be forced to confront not only the scars that mark them both, but the promise of a vast power that flickers in Illium.
The threat of ascension has haunted and troubled Aodhan’s Blue for too long, the forces of change immutable and without mercy...and uncaring of Illium’s fierce wish to remain part of the Seven. Change is a constant in an immortal’s life, and this new horizon will bring with it both terrible heartbreak and a joy extraordinary enough to reverberate through time…")
(EDIT : Giving this 5 stars cause the uglies are back for some reason, and as usual they yapping)
Poping up in this cursed place because I promised to myself & the world that I would for this highly, very highly anticipated sequel to Blue & Adi's story. Took years and forever, but here we are.
One point though, that I did not, in fact, see coming. While everyone with basic reading comprehension skills could clearly see that Illium would ascend, I was actually not expecting for the series and us, to see it.
I genuinely didn't think we would witness the 7 being broken up (especially with the last book) because Illium is real young in immortal years, so that would have mean, placing the book *very* far in the futur.
Maybe that explains the last book then ? It was a goodbye to the mortal characters we've known and won't get to see again.
Honestly, guess I thought that their next book would be kind of a showdown between them and Illium's genitor. That, or otherwise, the beginning of a new arc, with introduction of a new mega threat/villain, which would lead to more books to overcome it.
That may still be it, but I doubt it, because of Singh's announcement that the series is close to the end.
Also another point : not sure I like what the cover implies ? Or maybe I'm just not in a optimistic mood. Though, I know it'll be an happy ending because it always is, but for the love of baby otters everywhere, let it not be lack of communication trope like the last book.
Anyway.
Let's go May 2025.
May 18, 2025
Çok mutsuzum.O kadar zor bitirdim ki kitabı.Süründü elimde resmen.Sanki yazara zorla yazdırmışlar kitabı. MM Romans yazmak istemiyorsan yazmasaydın keşke.Tamam hikayenin baştan beri süre gelen konseptine göre Aodhan ve Illium'un birlikte olması çok mantıklıydı.Ama bunu aktarım aşaması...Beni çok yordu.
Kitabın içeriği de keza tam bir hayal kırıklığıydı.14. kitap Archangel's Light'ta her şey tam çözülmemişti.Sadece bir nevi bir yola girdiler diyebiliriz.Bu kitapta ise geçmişleri, acıları, gelecekleri, umutları vs. çözülmek istenmiş.Ama...ama...!
Bu süreç o kadar içsel bir yolculuk, sanatsal ve şairane bir anlatımla yazılmış ki bir yerden sonra çok sıkıldım. Kitapta doğru düzgün diyalog yok denebilir.Hep bir düşünce sürecinde ilerledik gibi hissettim.
Bir de yaptıkları bir araştırma var.Cinayet olduğu düşünülen bir davada birlikte çalışıyorlar.Aksiyon sıfır.Olay yok.Sağa soruyorlar, sola soruyorlar ve hooop çözdüler.Şaka gibiydi!
Birde son 100 sayfa var.Illium için beklenen bir olay gerçekleşti.Bunu geçmiş ve şimdi arasında falan hızlı hızlı anlattı yazar. Kitabın %70 ile son bölüm o kadar farklı bir kulvarda ilerlemiş ki ne alaka modunda ilerledim okurken. Sonraki kitapta nasıl olur, ne anlatır yazar bilemiyorum ama resmen 700 yılı su gibi akıttı geçti. Büyük ihtimalle yine öncesinden başlar diye düşünüyorum zira orada anlatılması gereken çok fazla hikaye vardı.Büyüyen çocuklar, kaybedilen dostlar vs.
Çok hevesle başladığım ama ciddi anlamda hayal kırıklığı yaşadığım bir okuma oldu.
Çok rica edeceğim okurlardan, sevdiğimiz karakterleri, favorilerimizi artık belli etmeyelim. Kimi seversek hiç ediyor yazarlar.
Kitabı okuduğum süreçte o kadar çok söylendim ki...
Şu çiftin hatrına yüksek puan veresim de var ama yazarın benden çaldığı zamanı düşününce de elim gitmiyor iyi bir puana.Hak etmiyor çünkü.
Bu arada ille de ten tene değsin derdim yok ama ne yaşadılar smut sahnelerde inanın anlamadım, çözemedim. 🙄
Kitabın içeriği de keza tam bir hayal kırıklığıydı.14. kitap Archangel's Light'ta her şey tam çözülmemişti.Sadece bir nevi bir yola girdiler diyebiliriz.Bu kitapta ise geçmişleri, acıları, gelecekleri, umutları vs. çözülmek istenmiş.Ama...ama...!
Bu süreç o kadar içsel bir yolculuk, sanatsal ve şairane bir anlatımla yazılmış ki bir yerden sonra çok sıkıldım. Kitapta doğru düzgün diyalog yok denebilir.Hep bir düşünce sürecinde ilerledik gibi hissettim.
Bir de yaptıkları bir araştırma var.Cinayet olduğu düşünülen bir davada birlikte çalışıyorlar.Aksiyon sıfır.Olay yok.Sağa soruyorlar, sola soruyorlar ve hooop çözdüler.Şaka gibiydi!
Birde son 100 sayfa var.Illium için beklenen bir olay gerçekleşti.Bunu geçmiş ve şimdi arasında falan hızlı hızlı anlattı yazar. Kitabın %70 ile son bölüm o kadar farklı bir kulvarda ilerlemiş ki ne alaka modunda ilerledim okurken. Sonraki kitapta nasıl olur, ne anlatır yazar bilemiyorum ama resmen 700 yılı su gibi akıttı geçti. Büyük ihtimalle yine öncesinden başlar diye düşünüyorum zira orada anlatılması gereken çok fazla hikaye vardı.Büyüyen çocuklar, kaybedilen dostlar vs.
Çok hevesle başladığım ama ciddi anlamda hayal kırıklığı yaşadığım bir okuma oldu.
Çok rica edeceğim okurlardan, sevdiğimiz karakterleri, favorilerimizi artık belli etmeyelim. Kimi seversek hiç ediyor yazarlar.
Kitabı okuduğum süreçte o kadar çok söylendim ki...
Şu çiftin hatrına yüksek puan veresim de var ama yazarın benden çaldığı zamanı düşününce de elim gitmiyor iyi bir puana.Hak etmiyor çünkü.
Bu arada ille de ten tene değsin derdim yok ama ne yaşadılar smut sahnelerde inanın anlamadım, çözemedim. 🙄
May 15, 2025
I'm must be getting soft as I age, cuz I cried through half of this book. It was just so touching. I've been reading this series for about 10 years now and have become attached to all of the characters.
This book jumped between the past, right after Illium and Aodhan bet back from China, and the present. The past focuses on how they go from best friends to lovers/partners and how Aodhan works through his past. So many emotional scenes, not just between these two, but with the other members of the group too, because Aodhan's kidnapping broke them all in different ways. Their romance and relationship unfolding was absolutely beautiful and romantic and * insert giant sigh*
The present is 700 years past the ending of the last book. Lots of things have happened and we get lot's of updates and lots of beautiful interactions. Just when I thought I was done crying, Illium ascends and they have to start saying good bye to everyone. I don't know if this is the end of the series or not but it felt like it. Wrap ups and good byes all around.
*edit……I just listened to an interview with the author who reports there will be one more book on the series and then it will be over. Last book will be released next year & will be about Raphael & Elena. She said “the series began with them and it will end with them”. She also stated she will continue to keep writing short stories in this world*
**absolutely not a stand alone book, you must read the previous books in the series to even understand this one**
This book jumped between the past, right after Illium and Aodhan bet back from China, and the present. The past focuses on how they go from best friends to lovers/partners and how Aodhan works through his past. So many emotional scenes, not just between these two, but with the other members of the group too, because Aodhan's kidnapping broke them all in different ways. Their romance and relationship unfolding was absolutely beautiful and romantic and * insert giant sigh*
The present is 700 years past the ending of the last book. Lots of things have happened and we get lot's of updates and lots of beautiful interactions. Just when I thought I was done crying, Illium ascends and they have to start saying good bye to everyone. I don't know if this is the end of the series or not but it felt like it. Wrap ups and good byes all around.
*edit……I just listened to an interview with the author who reports there will be one more book on the series and then it will be over. Last book will be released next year & will be about Raphael & Elena. She said “the series began with them and it will end with them”. She also stated she will continue to keep writing short stories in this world*
**absolutely not a stand alone book, you must read the previous books in the series to even understand this one**
May 22, 2025
4.5 STARS
I finished this book a few days ago, and I still cannot stop thinking about it. I absolutely adored both Illium and Aodhan from the beginning. They have been besties forever, but now they learn to navigate their relationship into something more.
Aodhan is tired of being “lonely” and decides to tackle his past and be the best he can be for both himself and Illium. All the while, Illium knows something big is coming. He can feel it deep within, but he doesn’t want to let go of his life in NY as part of Raphael’s Seven.
So why not 5 stars? Well, it’s a me thing. I got confused with all the time jumps. Not the “700 hundred years” ago, but the yesterday, today time jumps. I guess it was all very necessary, but I really had to pay attention.
I loved how NS wrapped up some loose ends with this one. Yet, I was getting nervous that his was going to be the last one, but one of my friends mentioned that NS said on FB that there is more to come. Thank goodness!
I finished this book a few days ago, and I still cannot stop thinking about it. I absolutely adored both Illium and Aodhan from the beginning. They have been besties forever, but now they learn to navigate their relationship into something more.
Aodhan is tired of being “lonely” and decides to tackle his past and be the best he can be for both himself and Illium. All the while, Illium knows something big is coming. He can feel it deep within, but he doesn’t want to let go of his life in NY as part of Raphael’s Seven.
So why not 5 stars? Well, it’s a me thing. I got confused with all the time jumps. Not the “700 hundred years” ago, but the yesterday, today time jumps. I guess it was all very necessary, but I really had to pay attention.
I loved how NS wrapped up some loose ends with this one. Yet, I was getting nervous that his was going to be the last one, but one of my friends mentioned that NS said on FB that there is more to come. Thank goodness!
May 12, 2025
All the feelings!!!! Was it perfect, no. But did I love it, YES!!!!
I would have liked to have more "today" than the past, but also a lot of that was necessary. It could be that I wasn't ready to let these two go. Illium and Aodhan have my whole heart. I really hope there is more to come from them and the series overall. Happy reading!
I would have liked to have more "today" than the past, but also a lot of that was necessary. It could be that I wasn't ready to let these two go. Illium and Aodhan have my whole heart. I really hope there is more to come from them and the series overall. Happy reading!
July 21, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkeley for the ARC.
I was alittle disappointed when I read the first page and thought the book was skipping hundreds of years ahead of where we left the series with the last book, but should have faith that Nalini Singh wouldn't do that.
Because she didn't - the book goes back and forth in time, from yes Illium's ascension, to Illium and Aodhan meeting up over the ocean in Archangel's Light, and makes it's way forward from there.
I enjoyed this book and seeing Illium and Aodhan grow as individuals and as a pair together. I also loved having mentions or actually meeting so many of the characters that are the reason I love this series. But there is a part of me that wishes that this book was a little more Sparkle and Blue focused exclusively. Just them as a new couple before we get to them being a solid loving pair that have been together for hundreds of years. I get that they have an advantage in the relationship department because they have known each other since childhood, but I would have liked more of their time as a new romantic couple.
Overall, I wish the book was longer because I feel that's what would have filled in my small complaints. But I think maybe the next chapter of this series will focus on Illium and Aodhan building up their territory and Illium's rule as an archangel, which I would love to see.
Illium and Aodhan together make me cry because they LOVE each other, and Nalini Singh writes them so well. Same with Raphael and Elena, Elena and Illium, and Aodhan and Rapael - basically any combo of these 4 - there is so much love and care there. Shout out to the Sara and Elena relationship, which made me cry without us seeing their interaction in this book.
Which I guess what this book is about - LOVE. The love between romantic couples, friends, and family. I really, really hope I am right about this series continuing because I am not ready to leave any of these characters.
I was alittle disappointed when I read the first page and thought the book was skipping hundreds of years ahead of where we left the series with the last book, but should have faith that Nalini Singh wouldn't do that.
Because she didn't - the book goes back and forth in time, from yes Illium's ascension, to Illium and Aodhan meeting up over the ocean in Archangel's Light, and makes it's way forward from there.
I enjoyed this book and seeing Illium and Aodhan grow as individuals and as a pair together. I also loved having mentions or actually meeting so many of the characters that are the reason I love this series. But there is a part of me that wishes that this book was a little more Sparkle and Blue focused exclusively. Just them as a new couple before we get to them being a solid loving pair that have been together for hundreds of years. I get that they have an advantage in the relationship department because they have known each other since childhood, but I would have liked more of their time as a new romantic couple.
Overall, I wish the book was longer because I feel that's what would have filled in my small complaints. But I think maybe the next chapter of this series will focus on Illium and Aodhan building up their territory and Illium's rule as an archangel, which I would love to see.
Illium and Aodhan together make me cry because they LOVE each other, and Nalini Singh writes them so well. Same with Raphael and Elena, Elena and Illium, and Aodhan and Rapael - basically any combo of these 4 - there is so much love and care there. Shout out to the Sara and Elena relationship, which made me cry without us seeing their interaction in this book.
Which I guess what this book is about - LOVE. The love between romantic couples, friends, and family. I really, really hope I am right about this series continuing because I am not ready to leave any of these characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2025
MAY2025: boy was this terrible. fan service. no reason to exist. author is out of ideas?
ETA: the whole thing read like an extended epilogue to the series except for the partial time spent solving a murder. not a standalone story.
ETA: the whole thing read like an extended epilogue to the series except for the partial time spent solving a murder. not a standalone story.
May 10, 2025
BRB going to go cry in the shower for … a few days… I’m so full of love, joy & pride
Adi and blue 4evs💕💕💕 the slow seduction from friends to lovers damn near almost SLLLLAAAYYYEEEEDD ME.
It was so much fun to have been checked in with all the characters we love and see where they turn up.
Adi and blue 4evs💕💕💕 the slow seduction from friends to lovers damn near almost SLLLLAAAYYYEEEEDD ME.
It was so much fun to have been checked in with all the characters we love and see where they turn up.
May 20, 2025
This was good but not great in my opinion. I had such HIGH hopes for the continuation of Aodhan and Illium's love story. Their book left us knowing they were together but left the rest to our imagination. While Illium and Aodhan were at the center of their story, there was also a LOT of other things going on. I felt like their story got a little lost in the shuffle. There were several POV changes. It seemed like Nalini was setting this up as a wrap to the series to be honest. Lots of things were tied up in pretty bows. People were having babies, and of course Illium ascended. There was also a mystery that the two were trying to solve so it just felt oddly not about them if that makes sense? I also had such a hard time with the spice scenes. There were a lot of insinuations about what was happening, but it was very fade to black, which doesn't really jive with the rest of the series. All that to say I do love the characters in this series, and I am just SOO happy that Aodhan and his Bluebell are living their best happily ever after as an Archangel and his second/Consort.
Illium thought he was safe from ascending until the day that all changes. And now he is an Other. A being larger than life literally. The one thing that matters to him the most still though after all of this time is his Aodhan. Looking back on how they finally realized their true feelings brings Illium such joy. Despite also recognizing the pain it took for them to get to that point. They had made a life together. Enjoyed working together. Just enjoyed being together and now things have shifted dramatically. It feels like a part of Illium's heart is being left behind in New York. Two archangels can't live in the same territory. But the showing that Illium gets for people that want to work with him is unreal. It makes him feel beyond loved and excited to see what the future brings.
Aodhan has always know that his Bluebell is special. Though it took them a long time to finally realize what they really meant to each other, Aodhan doesn't think he would trade that journey for anything. Because now that he has Illium in his corner, he feels safe enough to deal with his demons. Safe enough to venture out more. Safe enough to be the one that stands proudly next to Illium as an equal and his lover. But then Illium ascends and Aodhan finds himself wondering if this power shift will change their dynamic. They have always been on the same footing and now they aren't. Before Aodhan can slip into the loneliness of his anxiety Illium is there to reassure him that their love has not changed. This is a new adventure that they will get to do together. And though it hurts to leave what they know, together they will be able to build something totally new.
The pacing here was also a little hard to follow. Today would be post ascension and then yesterday seemed to range SEVERAL years (like hundreds maybe if I read right?). All that to say, there was a note at the back that there will be more of the series to come. I feel like there is too much that is going to happen between Illium and his dad having territories right next to each other. I will continue to read and hope this one was just a glitch. I do really recommend this series AND the Psy-Changeling one if you haven't read them. Her Psy-Changeling books are some of all time favs!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book one exchange for an honest review!
Illium thought he was safe from ascending until the day that all changes. And now he is an Other. A being larger than life literally. The one thing that matters to him the most still though after all of this time is his Aodhan. Looking back on how they finally realized their true feelings brings Illium such joy. Despite also recognizing the pain it took for them to get to that point. They had made a life together. Enjoyed working together. Just enjoyed being together and now things have shifted dramatically. It feels like a part of Illium's heart is being left behind in New York. Two archangels can't live in the same territory. But the showing that Illium gets for people that want to work with him is unreal. It makes him feel beyond loved and excited to see what the future brings.
Aodhan has always know that his Bluebell is special. Though it took them a long time to finally realize what they really meant to each other, Aodhan doesn't think he would trade that journey for anything. Because now that he has Illium in his corner, he feels safe enough to deal with his demons. Safe enough to venture out more. Safe enough to be the one that stands proudly next to Illium as an equal and his lover. But then Illium ascends and Aodhan finds himself wondering if this power shift will change their dynamic. They have always been on the same footing and now they aren't. Before Aodhan can slip into the loneliness of his anxiety Illium is there to reassure him that their love has not changed. This is a new adventure that they will get to do together. And though it hurts to leave what they know, together they will be able to build something totally new.
The pacing here was also a little hard to follow. Today would be post ascension and then yesterday seemed to range SEVERAL years (like hundreds maybe if I read right?). All that to say, there was a note at the back that there will be more of the series to come. I feel like there is too much that is going to happen between Illium and his dad having territories right next to each other. I will continue to read and hope this one was just a glitch. I do really recommend this series AND the Psy-Changeling one if you haven't read them. Her Psy-Changeling books are some of all time favs!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book one exchange for an honest review!
May 30, 2025
Here is my very harsh review: this book is a plotless piece of emotional crap and totally unreadable by anyone with any taste or mental capacity.
I've read every book in the series and some are weaker than other, but this doesn't even qualify as a "book". This is just a "fill" novel as the author has run out of ideas for the the current time so is moving the timeline forward 700 years with a very weak idea of how to accomplish that. I personally don't like reading the same emotional angst for page after page.
I am only glad that I got this from the library and didn't pay for this very very disappointing book.
I've read every book in the series and some are weaker than other, but this doesn't even qualify as a "book". This is just a "fill" novel as the author has run out of ideas for the the current time so is moving the timeline forward 700 years with a very weak idea of how to accomplish that. I personally don't like reading the same emotional angst for page after page.
I am only glad that I got this from the library and didn't pay for this very very disappointing book.
June 4, 2025
You know that line men in dark romance like to say: "You're pretty when you cry". And the girl is like having her tears stream perfectly one by one and her face still somehow looks perfect, her makeup in place? Yeah, that's not me. When I cry I quickly turn into a blotchy puffy mess with snot coming out everywhere, hiccups, headaches. The works.
Now, it's a good thing it's Sunday and I didn't have to be anywhere because I was that freaking mess the entire back half of this freaking book. And I don't mean I cried here and there. No! I freaking couldn't stop crying, period. I couldn't deal with the fact that this is the end of our big happy family. I wanted to punch something or someone, but the only ones available were my cats and I'm not a monster. And it's not like I didn't know it was coming, the signs were there in previous books but I didn't think it would hurt this much. I thought we'd have more time.
With that being said, Adi and Blue deserved nothing less. Sparkle and Bluebell. Those beautiful wonderful boys were such a joy to follow throughout the series and I'm glad that we ended up here. It's bittersweet and beautiful and wonderful. It's the end of en era.
Over and out
Now, it's a good thing it's Sunday and I didn't have to be anywhere because I was that freaking mess the entire back half of this freaking book. And I don't mean I cried here and there. No! I freaking couldn't stop crying, period. I couldn't deal with the fact that this is the end of our big happy family. I wanted to punch something or someone, but the only ones available were my cats and I'm not a monster. And it's not like I didn't know it was coming, the signs were there in previous books but I didn't think it would hurt this much. I thought we'd have more time.
With that being said, Adi and Blue deserved nothing less. Sparkle and Bluebell. Those beautiful wonderful boys were such a joy to follow throughout the series and I'm glad that we ended up here. It's bittersweet and beautiful and wonderful. It's the end of en era.
Over and out
June 6, 2025
Obsessed! Loved this addition to the series and I'm really hoping this isn't goodbye. I want more!
May 18, 2025
This is one big filler book with absolutely nothing happening in it. I don't know what I expected. A story I guess. It's just a - What happens when someone turns into an archangel - guidebook. Plus a gazillion flashbacks. Oh well.
June 1, 2025
4.5⭐️
And it was so well done. Nalini Singh really nailed the bond between Blue and Sparkle- absolute ride or dies, they understand each other and love each other on such a deep level. I loved getting to see them slowly discover this new facet of their relationship and comes to terms with it. I also loved getting to see them through the years as they grew together.
This apparently is the second-to-last book in the series, and it felt like it. We got some really lovely glimpses of couples that felt like closure and the start of a goodbye.
"The day I distance myself from mortals is the day I lose a piece of that thing mortals call a soul."Guys I was so ecstatic when I opened this book!! When I finished Archangel's Light (book #14!!!) I felt a little robbed- Illium and Aodhan FINALLY got together but not until the last chapter of the book. Then Archangel's Legion goes back to Elena and Raphael's pov and it's also ten years later? So I figured we would never see those early days between them. And I was still excited for this book, knowing there would be another huge time-jump because obviously this is about Illium ascending. So when I opened it and realized that this book actually goes back in time and opens up right after the end of Archangel's Light?! I was THRILLED.
And it was so well done. Nalini Singh really nailed the bond between Blue and Sparkle- absolute ride or dies, they understand each other and love each other on such a deep level. I loved getting to see them slowly discover this new facet of their relationship and comes to terms with it. I also loved getting to see them through the years as they grew together.
This apparently is the second-to-last book in the series, and it felt like it. We got some really lovely glimpses of couples that felt like closure and the start of a goodbye.
January 20, 2025
Illium and Aodhan – Bluebell and Sparkles– are two valuable members of Archangel Raphael’s Seven. Slowly, they must adjust to the newness of their changed relationship. The two angels agree to investigate a cold case that mirrors Aodhan’s traumatic past. This case prompts Aodhan to finally confront his inner demons and heal with his lover’s assistance. However, ascension threatens Illium. Will ascension destroy Illium and Aodhan’s bond?
Illium and Aodhan have always been my favorites from the start of the series. Honestly, I liked them more than I did the main characters. Illium has this infectious personality that one cannot help being drawn too. He made me smile and laugh. I remember empathizing with Aodhan, curious about the pain lurking beneath the man’s façade. The two angels went through amazing growth throughout the entire series. Did I see them becoming a couple? No. Am I happy about it? Heck yes, I am! It made sense to me.
ARCHANGEL’S ASCENSION is book seventeen in Nalini Singh’s best-selling (and popular) paranormal romance series, GUILD HUNTER. It is best to start this series from the beginning. They set up the author’s unique world – a kind of parallel universe to ours with angels ruling. The books also show the deep bonds Adi and Blue share, not only themselves, but with certain others.
I would also highly suggest reading ARCHANGEL’S LIGHT, book fourteen, before this one. It shows the evolution of their relationship from friendship to lovers.
Beloved characters (Elena, Raphael, Dmitri, Naasir) from the prior books make frequent appearances throughout the story. I like how the author breaks the story into parts. We get glimpses of Adi and Blue’s future.
I hope there will be more books following Illium and Aodhan. I would love to read my precious Bluebell rocking the Cadre’s foundation with his Sparkles’ aid.
Illium and Aodhan have always been my favorites from the start of the series. Honestly, I liked them more than I did the main characters. Illium has this infectious personality that one cannot help being drawn too. He made me smile and laugh. I remember empathizing with Aodhan, curious about the pain lurking beneath the man’s façade. The two angels went through amazing growth throughout the entire series. Did I see them becoming a couple? No. Am I happy about it? Heck yes, I am! It made sense to me.
ARCHANGEL’S ASCENSION is book seventeen in Nalini Singh’s best-selling (and popular) paranormal romance series, GUILD HUNTER. It is best to start this series from the beginning. They set up the author’s unique world – a kind of parallel universe to ours with angels ruling. The books also show the deep bonds Adi and Blue share, not only themselves, but with certain others.
I would also highly suggest reading ARCHANGEL’S LIGHT, book fourteen, before this one. It shows the evolution of their relationship from friendship to lovers.
Beloved characters (Elena, Raphael, Dmitri, Naasir) from the prior books make frequent appearances throughout the story. I like how the author breaks the story into parts. We get glimpses of Adi and Blue’s future.
I hope there will be more books following Illium and Aodhan. I would love to read my precious Bluebell rocking the Cadre’s foundation with his Sparkles’ aid.
July 11, 2025
Review originally posted at https://smexybooks.com/2025/06/review...
This has to be my most anticipated book in years and years. I kept hope alive throughout the series that these two would end up together, and then celebrated the first book in their story, even knowing that it would have to continue on in a later installment. I will admit that I read this book as soon as it hit my Kindle back in December of 2024 and writing a review seemed like a goodbye of sorts, so I’ve put it off. I wasn’t even sure how to write this review in way that would encapsulate how much I loved this couple, and the way this author delivered a love story for the ages as well as a glimpse at what is to come in the future. This is a love letter of sorts to the Guild Hunter readers who have been aching to see Sparkle and Bluebell’s romance play-out on page but were also worried about the break-up of the Seven and how the world would change once Illium ascended.
The continuation of Aodhan and Illium’s story is told in two time periods. Before Bluebell’s ascension and after. Yesterday and today. Yesterday being the current timeline and today being 700 years in the future. I wasn’t expecting the jumps in time, but this method of storytelling really did have maximum emotional impact to me as a reader, as just when the world of Guild Hunter seems to be evolving so much, readers are taken back in time to see how Bluebell and Sparkle’s romance and love story unfolded. There are also lovely scenes of beloved characters reinforcing their bonds and loyalty to each other. I adore each and every member of the Seven and so many of the Archangels (looking at you Titus and The Humingbird), and I always, always want to catch up with them and witness their care and love for each other. I want those slices of life and seeing secondary characters find love and a vital place within the community.
I’m absolutely not going to spoil this beautiful book, you really must experience it for yourself. For me it was perfect. Exactly what I hoped for, and my expectations were extremely high. After finishing I felt like this would be the perfect send-off if this were to be the last book of the series, but I could also see all the wonderful possibilities of where this author could take this world and these characters. One door seems to have closed, but so many were opened that my heart is happy.
As soon as they walked on page it’s always been Bluebell and Sparkle for me. Illium and Aodhan. Best friends and lovers. Now an Archangel and his Second. Where this series goes now, I have no idea, but wherever Nalini Singh decides to take this world and these characters next, I’ll absolutely be along for the ride.
Final grade- A
This has to be my most anticipated book in years and years. I kept hope alive throughout the series that these two would end up together, and then celebrated the first book in their story, even knowing that it would have to continue on in a later installment. I will admit that I read this book as soon as it hit my Kindle back in December of 2024 and writing a review seemed like a goodbye of sorts, so I’ve put it off. I wasn’t even sure how to write this review in way that would encapsulate how much I loved this couple, and the way this author delivered a love story for the ages as well as a glimpse at what is to come in the future. This is a love letter of sorts to the Guild Hunter readers who have been aching to see Sparkle and Bluebell’s romance play-out on page but were also worried about the break-up of the Seven and how the world would change once Illium ascended.
The continuation of Aodhan and Illium’s story is told in two time periods. Before Bluebell’s ascension and after. Yesterday and today. Yesterday being the current timeline and today being 700 years in the future. I wasn’t expecting the jumps in time, but this method of storytelling really did have maximum emotional impact to me as a reader, as just when the world of Guild Hunter seems to be evolving so much, readers are taken back in time to see how Bluebell and Sparkle’s romance and love story unfolded. There are also lovely scenes of beloved characters reinforcing their bonds and loyalty to each other. I adore each and every member of the Seven and so many of the Archangels (looking at you Titus and The Humingbird), and I always, always want to catch up with them and witness their care and love for each other. I want those slices of life and seeing secondary characters find love and a vital place within the community.
I’m absolutely not going to spoil this beautiful book, you really must experience it for yourself. For me it was perfect. Exactly what I hoped for, and my expectations were extremely high. After finishing I felt like this would be the perfect send-off if this were to be the last book of the series, but I could also see all the wonderful possibilities of where this author could take this world and these characters. One door seems to have closed, but so many were opened that my heart is happy.
As soon as they walked on page it’s always been Bluebell and Sparkle for me. Illium and Aodhan. Best friends and lovers. Now an Archangel and his Second. Where this series goes now, I have no idea, but wherever Nalini Singh decides to take this world and these characters next, I’ll absolutely be along for the ride.
Final grade- A
May 12, 2025
Aw, I smiled so much reading this book.
About half of this story takes place immediately after the point in time where we left Illium and Aodhan. The two of them solidify their new relationship, Aodhan heals, there’s a small murder mystery…
And then we have the time skips to 700 years later, when Illium ascends, and snapshots taking us there.
I enjoyed all parts of this story, even though it felt scattered in time. I love these characters, and am looking forward to seeing where this future and new status quo takes us (where the Seven is no longer, Illium builds his court, and many characters are much changed from what we know).
About half of this story takes place immediately after the point in time where we left Illium and Aodhan. The two of them solidify their new relationship, Aodhan heals, there’s a small murder mystery…
And then we have the time skips to 700 years later, when Illium ascends, and snapshots taking us there.
I enjoyed all parts of this story, even though it felt scattered in time. I love these characters, and am looking forward to seeing where this future and new status quo takes us (where the Seven is no longer, Illium builds his court, and many characters are much changed from what we know).
May 13, 2025
This strikes me as a transitional book, instituting major changes which we will see pay off in the next instalment. While there is a side story dealing with a murdered vampire this does not heavily impact the overall series. As for the romance between Illium and Aodhan begun in Archangel's Light continues to evolve. As this is the first same sex romance in the series (kudos to the author for making this choice) I was intrigued to see how she would deal with the sex scenes and here I have that I felt a bit disappointed. The scenes are erotic sure, but they lack the graphic nature (mainly the strong language) usually present in this authors books. For example when the two get nude we are assured this isn't anything unusual between the pair as they were often nude together while growing up.also as young warriors and it signified nothing special................really.......did this need saying, especially more than once, also as I say the language used when the pair are intimate is more like a mills and boon romance in it's tone........I my be ageing myself there............ I can't help seeing it as a loss of nerve. But enough about that. I love the characters and this is a good culmination of their story which we have all avidly followed for 16 books. Can't wait to see where the author takes us all in the next book given the shocks we receive in this one.....................
October 28, 2025
Thank you so much to Berkley Romance and Netgalley for providing an advanced copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are still my own.
This series is one of my favorite urban fantasy romance romances so I knew this book would be another hit. I thought the way this played with timelines was fantastic and such an amazing way of starting to wrap up the series.
Without going into too much detail (since we're a whopping 17 books deep), this gave me the HEA/closure I desperately wanted for these characters. This follows a couple that was establish a few books ago and I loved how this bridged the "what happened after" and "what happens next".
I'm truly heartbroken that there is only one more book to go. But I can't wait to see how it all wraps up. And I'm silently praying Nalini Singh does something else in this world (the way she did with Psychangeling) because I'm not ready to leave it behind.
Also! If you're new to this series - 10/10 recommend the audiobooks. Justine Eyre is fantastic in everything she does.
This series is one of my favorite urban fantasy romance romances so I knew this book would be another hit. I thought the way this played with timelines was fantastic and such an amazing way of starting to wrap up the series.
Without going into too much detail (since we're a whopping 17 books deep), this gave me the HEA/closure I desperately wanted for these characters. This follows a couple that was establish a few books ago and I loved how this bridged the "what happened after" and "what happens next".
I'm truly heartbroken that there is only one more book to go. But I can't wait to see how it all wraps up. And I'm silently praying Nalini Singh does something else in this world (the way she did with Psychangeling) because I'm not ready to leave it behind.
Also! If you're new to this series - 10/10 recommend the audiobooks. Justine Eyre is fantastic in everything she does.
October 22, 2025
Hmm, 3.75 stars
While I mostly still enjoy this series, it definitely feels like Nalini doesn't want to write Blue and Sparkle's stories and is only doing it out of necessity, which kinda sucks because I was looking forward to them more than this.
Also, the fact that the only fade to black she wrote is for the MM pairing is...telling.
I did listen to this on audiobook, and the narrator is not a fav of mine, but I also received an ARC from Berkley, so thank you so much for that!
While I mostly still enjoy this series, it definitely feels like Nalini doesn't want to write Blue and Sparkle's stories and is only doing it out of necessity, which kinda sucks because I was looking forward to them more than this.
Also, the fact that the only fade to black she wrote is for the MM pairing is...telling.
I did listen to this on audiobook, and the narrator is not a fav of mine, but I also received an ARC from Berkley, so thank you so much for that!
May 6, 2025
I guess....
I wasn't impressed. I didn't like the back and forth between the past (now) and the distant future. I didn't enjoy the love story between Allium and Aodhan. It was full of angst that didn't progress the storyline. I loved seeing Illium ascend, but I didn't enjoy the book as much as I wanted to. It took too long to get into the story of his actual ascension. The last 2 chapters were the best. Writing was sensitive, thoughtful, and sweet but too slow for me.
I wasn't impressed. I didn't like the back and forth between the past (now) and the distant future. I didn't enjoy the love story between Allium and Aodhan. It was full of angst that didn't progress the storyline. I loved seeing Illium ascend, but I didn't enjoy the book as much as I wanted to. It took too long to get into the story of his actual ascension. The last 2 chapters were the best. Writing was sensitive, thoughtful, and sweet but too slow for me.
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