The trials are over, and the final three have made their choice. Lessons have been taught, but the question remains—have they been learned? Have our heirs grown, or are they still grappling with the same shadows? Growth is rarely comfortable, often messy, and never linear. Now, we step into the aftermath to see who they’ve become—or if they’ve truly changed at all.
I am an Afro-Latina author. I have a deep love for all things fantasy and romance. I find joy in getting lost in captivating stories and savoring hot chais—when my children give me the chance.
I love this book, I’m gasping for book 3. I read this as an ARC reader, and I can’t get over the character growth, but Alexander is still my favorite. Once again we meet the heirs of Poseidon, Aphrodite, and Hades—but have they grown and learned from the trials? There’s such a wonderfully delicate balance between what happened in the past and what they must do to change the future. The Rite of Fates was amazing but to see what happens after—I truly gasped out loud at few key points and was stressed out at others. I loved every minute. Atlas Avery you are a queen of words, and I look forward to reading more of your work.
This one dives so much deeper into all three relationships and I LOVED THAT. Like, inject that straight into my veins. But let’s be real for a second: Caius and Cali own my soul. That relationship is my holy grail. My “I will think about them at random times during the day” couple.
Book 2 really shifts into the heart of these relationships. It’s way less about big flashy plot moments and way more about the balance of being with someone—the give and take, the effort, the choice to keep showing up. It is very much about watching these characters try to be better for each other and for the people around them. And honestly? That hit harder than I expected.
You really feel the emotional labor. The growth. The tension of loving someone and still being a mess. It’s tender, it’s frustrating, it’s beautiful, and it feels very real in a “wow, okay, that hurt a little” kind of way.
And listen. The fact that we were left on a cliffhanger at the end??? I am… deeply distraught. Not because it was bad because now I’m just sitting here with my feelings like: excuse me, what do I do with these??
Bottom line: If book 1 set the stage, book 2 made me emotionally attached in a way that should probably come with a warning label. I’m here for the relationships, I’m here for the growth, I’m here for Caius and Cali forever, and I will absolutely be continuing this series while emotionally unwell. 💔📚
The Rite of Ascension is the kind of sequel that proves why this series deserves the hype. Where the first book focused on survival and trials, this one leans into growth, consequences, and who the heirs become once the dust settles. The story feels deeper, more emotional, and far more intimate, especially as the characters are forced to live with the lessons they learned instead of simply enduring them.
What stood out most to me was the character development. Every heir felt more layered and more vulnerable, and the relationships were given space to breathe and evolve. The romance is emotional first, with intimacy that feels earned rather than rushed, which made every connection hit harder. The multiple POVs worked beautifully here and made the story feel rich and balanced without overwhelming the plot.
Atlas Avery does an incredible job blending mythology, romance, and prophecy in a way that feels immersive and personal. The stakes are higher, the emotional weight is heavier, and the tension builds steadily toward an ending that absolutely wrecked me. The cliffhanger alone guarantees I will be counting the days until book three.
Book one of this Series The Rite of Fates gave us lessons, deadly trials, new allies and bonds formed...
Book Two, a Greek Mythology themed age gap Romantasy, The Rite of Ascension picked up right where we left off and man was I glad to be surrounded again by the Heirs of Olympus and their chosen counterparts. I really enjoyed the first book but there was something about this one that really stood out to me. It felt deeper somehow, peeling back the many layers of each Heir while really gave us glimpses into their relationships with their chosen. I enjoyed the mix of modern life of the mortals and the divine life of the Heirs that was shown in their day to day lives together.
If you know me then you probably know by now I love all the Romance in my books; Atlas Avery and the Heirs of Olympus brought it in many different forms. With the multiple POVs, I adored getting to see each relationship blossom and take root within this story. There is spice scattered throughout this story which I felt it just built upon the deeper connections formed within the relationships with the added intimacy level. The pairs were Caius (Heir to Hades) and Cali, Aurelius (Heir to Posiedien) and Bailey, and Alexander (Heir to Aphrodity) and Ivy. I hate to choose favorites but Caius and Cali most definitely stole my heart! Between their nicknames of "My Light" and "My Night" they had for eachother as well as the raw vulnerability and unguarded openess they shared, it was instant heart melting for me served up with a side of protective darkness. The lessons learned and bonds formed within the trials were being molded into something beautiful all while a larger story was being played out all around them. With a prophecy at hand and the balance between the Heirs and the Gods shaken, Atlas Avery prepares us for a battle to unfold for the Rite of the Heirs to Assend within Olympus in order to protect the ones they love, their people and their realms. The build-up within the story was just right, and kept the tension strong as we waited to see what was to come of the Heirs, their loves, their choices, their realms, their people, and if the prophecy would come to light.
Oh my the emotions this book had me going through.
Did I mention I am highly anticipating Book 3 after the cliffy we were left on?!?! Because I am!
Another amazing book by Atlas Avery! We picked up pretty much right where we left off after Book 1. The heirs learned a lot from their human counterparts during the trials of Book 1, but there was still so much for them to learn throughout Book 2.
The emotions and lessons that not only the heirs but also their partners learned throughout this book were deeper and more impactful than Book 1. I appreciated that we got to see more than just small glimpses of this between not only our 3 main pairings, but also among the other heirs. To see the learning and growth that everyone underwent throughout this book was one of my favorite things about the storyline of Book 2.
I love a good prophecy, and boy did this book deliver on that aspect as well! The heirs of Olympus must ascend in order to protect the ones they now love and care most for. The battle that ensues may surprise you in terms of the decisions made by some of our favorite heirs, as well as the powers that are revealed by the Fates’ Favored. That was an epic display of her new powers!
If you loved The Rite of Fates, be prepared to feel all the feelings in The Rite of Ascension. And also be prepared for that cliffhanger at the end! I cannot wait to see what happens next in Book 3!
Thank you so much to Atlas Avery for the gifted copy of this book!
This books picks up in the aftermath of book one when all the trials are over. I liked seeing how it played out now that they aren’t physically competing against each other in the trials from the fates. There was a lot of character growth. Caius and Calliope are my favorites of all the couples. I could honestly read more books just about them but I can’t wait to read the next book to see what happens to everyone else!
Wowwwe I love how this story builds its characters in clusters instead of dumping all the information at once!!! Sometimes with retellings it gives a lot of faith in the reader to be a historian and this one felt original and relatable. It makes everything so easy to digest and even easier to invest in each of the cast members. I also really appreciated the quick refresher at the beginning- it was such a thoughtful touch and honestly, sooo clutch.
My absolute favorite part, though? The nicknames. They felt natural and endearing instead of cringey. I love a good mythology retelling, and this one is truly elite. GIMME BOOK 3!!!!!!
The Rite of Ascension by Atlas Avery was everything I hoped for and more. Emotional, epic, and soul-deep.
Picking up after The Rite of Fates, this sequel dives straight back into the lives of the heirs of Poseidon, Aphrodite, and Hades, testing everything they thought they learned in the trials. It’s not just about surviving anymore and it’s about transforming.
Atlas Avery has this rare gift of weaving mythology, emotion, and introspection together so seamlessly that every page feels like both a battle and a revelation. The balance between destiny and choice, love and duty, past wounds and present growth.
I adored seeing each heir’s arc unfold, especially how new gods and children of Zeus, Ares, Athena, and Hermes were brought deeper into the story. The world feels bigger, the stakes higher, and the bonds tighter.
But let’s talk about Caius and Calliope. “My Light.” “My Night.” I melted. They are literal soulmates written in the stars. Their connection was so intimate and emotional , not just spicy moments, but deep, spiritual love.
I liked this book but I just don't think it was for me. I did like how the author developed the characters in this one. I can honestly say it's a good book, judt not for me ⁰
It's not just a pretty cover and sexy graphics!!!! This is a Greek mythology fantasy that is REALLY good!!!!! It's book 2 in the RITE OF FATES series with a 3rd one on the way.
FROM THE RUINS, A NEW DOMINION WILL EMERGE
The first book mainly focuses on the trials and getting to know the characters, then this book greatly expands on the character development making you fall in love even more! There's spice, but it's more intimate than that. There's depth to the relationships as they learn to live outside the trials and transform in everyday life. In order to keep away from spoilers, I'll just say I can't wait for book 3!!!!
Oh and for the foodie fans, be sure to try the recipe that Atlas gives us at the back of the book!!!!
Thank you Atlas and @inspireservices for my ARC copy!
I really enjoyed book 2. The relationships developed beautifully and was a continuation from book 1. Even though there is not really one main character or couple theres more like three; l feel like the author does a good job and equally giving time to each couple. Much like book 1, this one is primarily relationship driven for the plot and focuses on the character development and changes vs heavy action, politics and schemes. Though there is definitely something brewing for book 3. Now that our characters have an established relationship I am hoping to see some more action and scheming or more political power plays in book 3. I received this as an arc follow up to book one, so these are just my personal thoughts and reflections after reading both book 1 & 2
What a fantastic Read! 4.5⭐️ Rite of Ascension picks up right after The Rite of Fate. The plot kept me vested in the characters. I really enjoyed how each character evolved (especially the men!) and how relationships were solidified. The cliffhanger ending definitely has me waiting for the next book😜. If you enjoy multiple POV, Greek mythology, romantasy, Gods vs Demigods, prophecies - add this to your TBR. Thank you Atlas Avery for providing me the opportunity to read this eARC!
The Rite of Ascension picks up exactly where Fates leaves off.
I read a lot of plot heavy books but to me this one is absolutely character driven and the way Atlas writes is like a poetic love letter to each and every one of her characters. Yes there’s a war going on and it’s central to the plot itself but the real story is the character growth within each of them as we move through the story.
Based on Greek mythology Atlas writes another beautiful story of self discovery, personal growth and broken cycles.
The trials might be over, but wow—this book proves the real challenge starts after the dust settles. I loved seeing how the final three dealt with everything that came next. It’s less about action this time and more about who they’ve become (or haven’t).
It’s messy, emotional, and super real about how growth isn’t a straight path. Some moments hit hard, especially when you realize how much—or how little—these characters have learned. It’s not a perfect ending, but it feels honest.
This one right here left my heart so full after moments of unrelenting beauty in the growth of these characters. To see them in this light, after the first book of trials, was like watching the northern lights in all their glory. Stunning, soft, but alive with vibrancy.
This is definitely my fave in the series so far, but I'm bracing myself for book 3 because we have some real heavy hitters rolling out of the cosmos for the next one 💪🏻💫
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THE MANUSCRIPT - the plot
Where THE RITE OF FATES was about confronting and discovering emotions and humanity, THE RITE OF ACENSION is about transforming and connecting to those emotions to evolve into better versions for self, but also for others.
We are brought right back into the lives of Caius, Aurelius, and Alexander - the heirs of Hades, Poseidon, and Aphrodite - following the trials of book one. They’re alongside their human, or now divine as some are, counterparts and are navigating life outside of trials and chaos, but that doesn’t mean that it’s been easy. Gods that usually huff their annoyance, or give up and walk away, are now left to tap into their learned communication skills and emotions to navigate relationships and hold up their newly altered minds for hope of a brighter future between Gods and humanity.
While that may seem like a simple evolution, the men (especially) are learning it’s anything but. Even when they feel like they’ve gotten even keel and landed on softer ground with grace, they’re hit with the need to Ascend and wake up the Gods. As one could guess - it goes about as smoothly as a rock through a glass window as soon as they’re called to Mount Olympus. The utter chaos that ensues ensures that the Gods and their women are brought into a new battle of wits, warfare, and overall communion with the warring question - can the heirs tap into their new personas to ascend and take their rightful places amongst Gods, or will their newfound humanity be a burden looked down upon? Honestly, the entire ride from the start is wild and grips you until the very bitter and beautiful end.
Lovers of gods and their antics need to lock in for this one, it’s my favorite of the two!
THE ALCHEMY - the characters
My favorite part of these stories, especially RITE OF ASCENSION, was watching the relationships between the Gods and the girls develop. I’ve never really read anything that broke down relationships into emotion after emotion, dissecting it from every angle and every counterpoint. What did Caius feel when Cali felt safe with him? What did Aurelius feel when Bailey said his realm felt like home? Things like that, focusing on male feelings, was something new to me and profoundly impactful on the whole story. Rarely do authors narrate the feelings of the male characters to such depth, and I really adore what Atlas did with reverence and utter care for every shred of their emotions.
Though I usually champion for the FMCs of a story, this one has me strictly on the side of the men. These men are more than what they’re set up to be as heirs to realm-renowned Gods. They’re multi-dimensional, insanely kind though past-history has taught them different, and inspiringly ready to develop more layers as every interaction occurs. They’re not fast-thinkers, quick to action - they’re methodical, smart, and stunningly charming with their cunning natures.
Like their internal battles hit so close to home. Are you worthy of the one you love? PLEASE GOD, that revelation for Caius and Aurelius were two of the most beautiful moments in this story. I just wanted to hug them through my kindle when they finally understood they are worth more than what their lineage tells them they are.
DOWN BAD - the feelings
This story is my favorite of the two - hands down. I loved watching the relationships develop from curiosity, to love, to lust, to teasing banter, to heated proclamations. Every second of it was so beautifully rendered that it felt connected to reality - to emotions I’ve felt between friends, between lovers. Atlas really did us a service in the spice delivery with this one so lovers of that are NOT going to be disappointed. It was tasteful, stunning, and done with such care that it left me breathless.
The way everyone comes together in the end was very found family in the best way that it made my heart feel so full having traveled this journey with these characters. Like I’m attached to Caius and Cali, Aurelius and Bailey, Alexander and Ivy. Hell even some of the lesser noted Gods have my heart after this one.
That ending though...the *chefs kiss* of a cliffhanger begging you to read the next one.
Oh my gosh… I couldn’t wait to pick up The Rite: Ascension after finishing the first book! Honestly, I was hooked from the start of book one, and diving into this one just felt so thrilling. Atlas Avery completely draws you in with her worldbuilding and the way she writes characters — I felt like I was right there with them, living through everything.
I loved how this book balances action, tension, and character moments. There’s a slow-burn romance that’s just chef’s kiss, enemies-to-lovers vibes that make your heart race, and the kind of friendships and loyalty that feel real and earned. The stakes are higher, the twists hit harder, and yet, there’s still this emotional depth that really makes you care about what happens next.
The pacing is perfect — it keeps you turning pages without ever feeling rushed. Avery has a way of weaving in small details and hints that make the story feel layered, so even if you’re just reading for the romance and adventure, you catch these moments that make it feel so rich. I loved seeing how everything started connecting, and even without spoiling, just know that the character growth and world expansion were incredible.
I can’t recommend this enough if you loved the first book or just enjoy fantasy with morally gray characters, slow-burn tension, and a gripping plot that keeps you on edge. And the best part? The third book is on the way, and I am beyond excited to see where Avery takes this story next — I literally can’t wait!
THE RITE OF ASCENSION by Atlas Avery is the second installment in a Greek mythology inspired series that reminds readers that the walls we build often come at the price of connection. Personal growth, while uncomfortable, can be transformative and healing in ways we didn’t realize we needed.
This book picks up shortly after the completion of the trials and follows the romantic relationships that were formed in the first book. The heirs must navigate their emotions and continue to confront their perceived flaws as they continue to evolve and grow.
Fueled by a prophecy and the recognition that the Divine were fractured and tainted — the heirs awaken the Gods and are determined to Ascend. Can they unite? Will they transform? Can they be better?
The Rite of Ascension is perfect for fans of Greek mythology inspired stories, found family, battles for power, and profound character growth. It releases October 14th, 2025.
A huge thank you to Inkspire for putting this series on my radar and giving me the opportunity to ARC read this lovely and unique story!
Atlas Avery has smoothie transitioned from The Rite of Fates to The Rite of Ascension. With the continued story of the airs of the gods and the humans they have join, joined with this story takes you through each of their experiences and thoughts, making it an incredible fantasy. If you know anything about mythology and enjoy the stories that surround their powers. You should read these books- The author builds each character to such detail that while you’re reading you can figure out their next move. Her world building skills are impressive- creating a different world for each character and staying true to form. Being a fan of mythology and all the incredible aspects of the Gods and the multiple relationships that are occurring at once. If you enjoyed Zodiac Academy then this book is right down your alley. The only difference is where there was bullying in ZA their is a gentle admiration aspect is The Rites of Ascension
Ok...Avery Atlas why the cliffhanger when the next book wont be out for months?!? Noooo! The character development was amazing in this book! The feelings and emotions and the heart of relationships were truly explored. It was raw and beautiful and I outwardly gasped soo many times! I loved every page of this book! I can't wait to read the next one! Each of these characters I'm truly invested in! I highly recommend this series!
I enjoyed this book, it felt comfortable jumping back into the world that had been built in the first book and seeing more of the characters. A lot of the chapters in this book whether it was action-packed or sincere character growth meant I really didn't want to put it down! Great combination of fast paced action with sincerity.
It’s a fantastic book!!! All of my favorite characters back. War is looming. Can the Heirs ascend and take the thrones or will they lose everything they hold dear?
The Rite of Fates is available on KU and Kindle Prime. ARC sign-ups are open on IG.
This book is absolutely amazing!! Atlas is a great writer and this series continues to be about growth and change. The heirs do the damn thing!!! The romance and spice/intimacy is on point. I am so ready for book 3!!! gimme!! 💚😍
We fell in love with these characters in book 1 when they were going through the trials- now it's time to see them do life after the trials. And at no point is it easy. The character growth and development was perfection. Seeing each of these characters work through their relationships in the real world was so incredibly well done. We see that nothing is easy but it's always worth it!
The Rite of Fates was amazing but to see what happens after—I truly gasped out loud at few key points and was stressed out at others. I loved every minute. Atlas Avery you are a queen of words, and I look forward to reading more of your work.
Love this and how it continued with the characters and they developed chemistry and relationships with one another and friendships loved it I want more to come
ohhh what a continuation from book one ....all of the aftermath of the trials ...seeing how all the characters grew and came together... I loved seeing how the couples ended up and where their relationships were headed ... great series
The second book in The Rite of Fates series, and it was absolutely captivating.
This story follows the heirs of the gods as they face their ascension into power. After Alexander learns of a prophecy, he’s forced to initiate it to protect the people he loves from the darkness of the gods, their own parents. Ciaus, Aurelius, and Alexander must do whatever it takes to keep their partners safe while facing the weight of destiny.
The world-building is beautifully done, expansive without being overwhelming and the realms feel vivid and alive. Each heir finds themselves falling in love and daring to dream of the future, even as fear and doubt shadow the path ahead.
This book had me hooked from start to finish. It’s immersive, emotional, and absolutely worth the read
I loved this story line! It was great being able to watch the characters grow and a refreshing change of pace from the typical writing style! I do recommend this book!