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The Ascendants
On a distant mining colony, Samantha Weaver is in line for a promotion, and is working hard to have hope for the future.
She came to this desolate place to give her sickly brother Aiden a better life, but is it really better? Sometimes she wonders how best to help him, and if they made the right decision.
Their mundane existence is blown apart from the moment the monstrous creatures breach the mines. The colony descends into chaos. All the workers are trapped, abandoned by the very administrators who once drove them to exhaustion.
Together, Sam and Aiden must fight their way through blood-stained hallways, where every shadow hides claws and every move could be their last.
The walls are breached. The colony is lost. Survival is all that's left.
When the legendary Starborn warriors arrive, the survivors dare to hope. But these newcomers are not intent on rescue. Whatever they came for—it’s worth more than every survivor begging for salvation.
From acclaimed artist and creator Jazza (Josiah) Brooks comes a relentless, pulse-pounding story of monsters, mystery, and the devastating price of protecting the ones you love.
She came to this desolate place to give her sickly brother Aiden a better life, but is it really better? Sometimes she wonders how best to help him, and if they made the right decision.
Their mundane existence is blown apart from the moment the monstrous creatures breach the mines. The colony descends into chaos. All the workers are trapped, abandoned by the very administrators who once drove them to exhaustion.
Together, Sam and Aiden must fight their way through blood-stained hallways, where every shadow hides claws and every move could be their last.
The walls are breached. The colony is lost. Survival is all that's left.
When the legendary Starborn warriors arrive, the survivors dare to hope. But these newcomers are not intent on rescue. Whatever they came for—it’s worth more than every survivor begging for salvation.
From acclaimed artist and creator Jazza (Josiah) Brooks comes a relentless, pulse-pounding story of monsters, mystery, and the devastating price of protecting the ones you love.
- GenresScience FictionHorror
409 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 24, 2025
152 people are currently reading
661 people want to read
About the author
Jazza Brooks
2 books90 followersJazza has spent his life in the pursuit of creating epic projects in all mediums and has built a large audience doing just that. Though he built a career in animation, art and video content, it wasn’t until a family holiday at age 35 that he tried his hand at creative writing, and was immediately hooked.
What began as the idea for a short story is now the foundation of a planned quadrilogy. A brutal, emotional, high-concept saga of survival and transformation, and the first of many more written works to come.
As someone eager to write much more, he would humbly ask you to please leave a review of his work so that he can continue to improve his books for you in the years to come, and hopefully also improve his ability to write compelling third-person biographies.
To stay informed in future works of fiction (written and audiobook), sign up to his author's newsletter here: https://www.JazzaBrooks.com
What began as the idea for a short story is now the foundation of a planned quadrilogy. A brutal, emotional, high-concept saga of survival and transformation, and the first of many more written works to come.
As someone eager to write much more, he would humbly ask you to please leave a review of his work so that he can continue to improve his books for you in the years to come, and hopefully also improve his ability to write compelling third-person biographies.
To stay informed in future works of fiction (written and audiobook), sign up to his author's newsletter here: https://www.JazzaBrooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
August 12, 2025
When the Mines Awaken: Threadweavers’ Tense and Terrifying Debut
Jazza Brooks’ The Ascendants launches the Threadweavers saga with a high-stakes blend of industrial science fiction, deep lore, and survival horror. Set in the oppressive subterranean mining colonies of the Grand Edictum Corps, the novel follows siblings Sam and Aiden, whose lives are dictated by the rigid hierarchy and hazardous labor of the colony world Strata Multorum Y9. Their routine is shattered when a mining operation unearths an ancient alien power source—tenebrax—alongside something far more dangerous: predatory creatures from the depths. As chaos spreads, survival demands not just physical resilience but moral resolve, setting the stage for broader conflicts tied to the mythical Zenitharch and the fate of humanity.
The novel deftly explores themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the tension between individual ambition and familial duty. The bond between Sam and Aiden becomes a study in mutual dependence, complicating the reader’s view of heroism and selflessness. Authoritarianism and propaganda—embodied in the Ascendancy’s creed—form a constant backdrop, raising questions about faith, manipulation, and the suppression of dissent. Brooks also engages with the theme of awakening—both in the literal emergence of alien threats and the characters’ growing awareness of their place in a wider, perilous universe.
Sam emerges as a compelling protagonist—capable, pragmatic, and fiercely protective—while Aiden offers a quieter, more introspective counterpoint. Their sibling dynamic is believable, with friction rooted in love and guilt. Secondary figures such as Crestley, Trevor, and various crew members are sketched with enough specificity to feel real, though some remain archetypal. The setting is one of the novel’s strongest achievements: the claustrophobic, grime-encrusted mines, the regimented workstations, and the cavernous junctions are richly detailed. This oppressive industrial architecture not only grounds the action but reinforces the novel’s mood of confinement and systemic control.
The book opens with a slow-burn immersion into the colony’s daily life, allowing the reader to understand its rhythms before the intrusion of the alien threat. Once the breach occurs, pacing accelerates sharply, sustaining tension through escalating danger. The most gripping moments come in the scenes of immediate crisis—particularly the creature’s attack in the dock—which are cinematic in their clarity. A few early sequences dwell heavily on procedural detail, which may slightly delay narrative momentum, but they also deepen the authenticity of the world.
Brooks’ prose blends functional clarity with moments of vivid sensory impact. The mining jargon, industrial descriptions, and Ascendancy propaganda are integrated naturally, enhancing immersion without overwhelming the reader. The book uses alternating perspectives between Sam and Aiden to broaden scope and emotional resonance. Brooks avoids heavy exposition dumps, opting instead to seed world-building details through character experience and environmental cues. The dialogue feels organic, capturing camaraderie, rivalry, and fear in equal measure.
The originality of the world-building—particularly the fusion of deep-mining sci-fi with quasi-religious authoritarianism—distinguishes The Ascendants from standard colony thrillers. The juxtaposition of massive industrial scale with intimate sibling drama gives the novel both epic and personal stakes. The first encounter with the alien creature is a standout sequence, blending horror pacing with stark brutality.
The Ascendants succeeds as both a tense survival narrative and the opening act of a larger space opera. Its strengths lie in atmospheric world-building, believable sibling dynamics, and a seamless integration of socio-political commentary into a thrilling plot. While the early chapters may feel procedural to readers eager for immediate action, the payoff in immersion and tension is considerable. This book will appeal to fans of The Expanse, Aliens, and Red Rising, particularly those who value rich settings and layered character relationships.
Strongly recommended for readers who enjoy science fiction that marries industrial grit with mythic scope.
Voluntary review of a free advance review copy.
Jazza Brooks’ The Ascendants launches the Threadweavers saga with a high-stakes blend of industrial science fiction, deep lore, and survival horror. Set in the oppressive subterranean mining colonies of the Grand Edictum Corps, the novel follows siblings Sam and Aiden, whose lives are dictated by the rigid hierarchy and hazardous labor of the colony world Strata Multorum Y9. Their routine is shattered when a mining operation unearths an ancient alien power source—tenebrax—alongside something far more dangerous: predatory creatures from the depths. As chaos spreads, survival demands not just physical resilience but moral resolve, setting the stage for broader conflicts tied to the mythical Zenitharch and the fate of humanity.
The novel deftly explores themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the tension between individual ambition and familial duty. The bond between Sam and Aiden becomes a study in mutual dependence, complicating the reader’s view of heroism and selflessness. Authoritarianism and propaganda—embodied in the Ascendancy’s creed—form a constant backdrop, raising questions about faith, manipulation, and the suppression of dissent. Brooks also engages with the theme of awakening—both in the literal emergence of alien threats and the characters’ growing awareness of their place in a wider, perilous universe.
Sam emerges as a compelling protagonist—capable, pragmatic, and fiercely protective—while Aiden offers a quieter, more introspective counterpoint. Their sibling dynamic is believable, with friction rooted in love and guilt. Secondary figures such as Crestley, Trevor, and various crew members are sketched with enough specificity to feel real, though some remain archetypal. The setting is one of the novel’s strongest achievements: the claustrophobic, grime-encrusted mines, the regimented workstations, and the cavernous junctions are richly detailed. This oppressive industrial architecture not only grounds the action but reinforces the novel’s mood of confinement and systemic control.
The book opens with a slow-burn immersion into the colony’s daily life, allowing the reader to understand its rhythms before the intrusion of the alien threat. Once the breach occurs, pacing accelerates sharply, sustaining tension through escalating danger. The most gripping moments come in the scenes of immediate crisis—particularly the creature’s attack in the dock—which are cinematic in their clarity. A few early sequences dwell heavily on procedural detail, which may slightly delay narrative momentum, but they also deepen the authenticity of the world.
Brooks’ prose blends functional clarity with moments of vivid sensory impact. The mining jargon, industrial descriptions, and Ascendancy propaganda are integrated naturally, enhancing immersion without overwhelming the reader. The book uses alternating perspectives between Sam and Aiden to broaden scope and emotional resonance. Brooks avoids heavy exposition dumps, opting instead to seed world-building details through character experience and environmental cues. The dialogue feels organic, capturing camaraderie, rivalry, and fear in equal measure.
The originality of the world-building—particularly the fusion of deep-mining sci-fi with quasi-religious authoritarianism—distinguishes The Ascendants from standard colony thrillers. The juxtaposition of massive industrial scale with intimate sibling drama gives the novel both epic and personal stakes. The first encounter with the alien creature is a standout sequence, blending horror pacing with stark brutality.
The Ascendants succeeds as both a tense survival narrative and the opening act of a larger space opera. Its strengths lie in atmospheric world-building, believable sibling dynamics, and a seamless integration of socio-political commentary into a thrilling plot. While the early chapters may feel procedural to readers eager for immediate action, the payoff in immersion and tension is considerable. This book will appeal to fans of The Expanse, Aliens, and Red Rising, particularly those who value rich settings and layered character relationships.
Strongly recommended for readers who enjoy science fiction that marries industrial grit with mythic scope.
Voluntary review of a free advance review copy.
October 1, 2025
I loved the facility, great sci-fi setting. The initial premise of these dark and terrifying creatures killing and eating the workers was also amazing and felt like reading a solid sci-fi horror novel. Once a new group of characters arrives and helps the protagonists, I sadly lost interest because the book turned into an action movie with guns and battles all the time, and I just personally find these types of stories to be boring, whether in film or book form. The illustrations throughout were a huge surprise and really beautiful. I also liked the different povs and how unique and memorable some of the characters were.
October 11, 2025
I liked this book a lot.
It started generic space station attacked by aliens vibes, but quickly built into a thrilling story, weaving mystery, intrigue and survival together. With a healthy dose of cool and style oozing off the Ursan Starborn warriors.
It started generic space station attacked by aliens vibes, but quickly built into a thrilling story, weaving mystery, intrigue and survival together. With a healthy dose of cool and style oozing off the Ursan Starborn warriors.
September 10, 2025
Do you like the horror of Aliens and the grim dark world of 40K then you will probably like this. The ascendants smooth transition within the first couple of chapter with the brother and sister life at rock bottom to a full on horror. Love this inspired world of aliens meet Warhammer Mining World with that touch of zealous righteous sprinkle in the world that had me just wanting more.
September 16, 2025
So good, it's hard to believe it's a first try
I am a fan of Jazza's channel and I know how impressive his first tries in different mediums might be. But an entire book? To be honest I expected a good story, not that good of a story! I had to constantly remind myself, that the author is not some seasoned writer. Can't wait for what comes next!
I am a fan of Jazza's channel and I know how impressive his first tries in different mediums might be. But an entire book? To be honest I expected a good story, not that good of a story! I had to constantly remind myself, that the author is not some seasoned writer. Can't wait for what comes next!
October 27, 2025
Ok first i just wanna say that i love his yt videos, and as an artist of sorts, i find him really inspiring, and honestly everything he makes is just insanley cool. So when i clicked on his video saying he had published his first ever book, i watched for a whole 2 min before i went straight to amazon to buy it, and now ive finished it, and i am both amazed, and also not surprised (in the best way)
The book was really good, it started off strong and interesting, (though maaybe a bit «basic» at first, but as the book progresses, it does become more and more uniqe) and i was hooked for the whole book honestly. Also, huge plus points for the illustrations!
He does a really good job of painting a picture (obviusly) and you can really imagine everything thats happening clearly, and i love that.
The only ‘critique’ i would have, is that in the first third of the book, its almost a little too much description for my taste, but i think thats just a personal preferance, and is actually a good thing. It means you have to pay close attention in the beginning to make sure u can actually imagine properly what this whole world looks like, so that u can enjoy the book more. Also, like i said, after the first part, the rest is really easy to hang along with.
Also, i think its more or less just his writing style, and i think it makes the book more enjoyable all in all
Also, i am curious abt why the «Praevidor» is suddenly written as «Prævidør» on page 291?
As a norwegian it is always funny to see «æøå» used in english, beacuse if you pronounce it in norwegian it sounds reallly wierd😂 but is that intended or was it just beacuse the letters looked cool? 🤷🏽♀️
All in all, a really good debut, and i will definetly read the whole series when the time comes!! 👏🏼👏🏼
August 26, 2025
*spoiler free*
I should not have at all been surprised at how good this was.
Despite this being his first foray into creative writing, through his many videos, Jazza has always shown a knack for storytelleing; whether that be through animations, the thought process for his many projects, and generally just engaging his viewers in whatever new fantasy world he had literally built.
What I liked in particular was how Jazza utilised the humanity of the characters to not only drive the plot, but to demonstrate evolution, growth, and resilience, to show how meaningful connections and emotions are, and to see how far someone can be pushed when those things are threatened.
Now that probably wasnt the sole focal point as this novel is also 400 pages of action, but I appreciate it. This wasn't just a mindless fight between two sides, but a demonstration of the fortitude of human nature.
For a first foray, authors can get led astray with using excessive passive voice or having pages of exposition that disrupts the flow of a story, but all this novel did was flow. I quite enjoyed how Jazza intergrated the interludes, having it seamlessly continue on from the previous chapters, rather than plonking it in to be appreciated after all has been read.
As you reach the peak of the story, you sit back and go, 'ah, i see what he was doing,' and though that may deter some people, it was very nice seeing all the puzzle pieces come together. I would consider this a story thats very easy to follow, and it is a nice quick read.
I should not have at all been surprised at how good this was.
Despite this being his first foray into creative writing, through his many videos, Jazza has always shown a knack for storytelleing; whether that be through animations, the thought process for his many projects, and generally just engaging his viewers in whatever new fantasy world he had literally built.
What I liked in particular was how Jazza utilised the humanity of the characters to not only drive the plot, but to demonstrate evolution, growth, and resilience, to show how meaningful connections and emotions are, and to see how far someone can be pushed when those things are threatened.
Now that probably wasnt the sole focal point as this novel is also 400 pages of action, but I appreciate it. This wasn't just a mindless fight between two sides, but a demonstration of the fortitude of human nature.
For a first foray, authors can get led astray with using excessive passive voice or having pages of exposition that disrupts the flow of a story, but all this novel did was flow. I quite enjoyed how Jazza intergrated the interludes, having it seamlessly continue on from the previous chapters, rather than plonking it in to be appreciated after all has been read.
As you reach the peak of the story, you sit back and go, 'ah, i see what he was doing,' and though that may deter some people, it was very nice seeing all the puzzle pieces come together. I would consider this a story thats very easy to follow, and it is a nice quick read.
December 19, 2025
There were some things I liked about this book that were done well, but I didn't find myself getting invested. There were a lot of plot holes and things that aren't explained by the end of the book. The character development was great, but a lot of the book felt repetitive. The plot itself could have used some detailed storyboarding and I am unlikely to read future installments in this series.
September 1, 2025
Jazza!
Slow clap 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 So when one of my fave illustrators posted he wrote a book and it was science fiction, it was an instant download for me. I love science fiction and am a big reader which means I can be picky. I was excited but guarded because I know he’s a great story teller with an amazing imagination but I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy his writing. In a world where many online personalities jump into endeavours with little thought - Jazza is a breath of fresh air. It’s clear that he truly put the work in, edits, re-writes, beta readers, being open to critiques and this book is better for it. Well done!
Set deep in the mines of an alien planet I fell in love with our brother/ sister team-as they discovered strengths they didn’t know they had. Loved the found family aspect of this book. I cheered on their successes and mourned the losses. I know it’s a good book when I shed a few tears and that happened multiple times. Two giant grumpy, yet secretly soft, bear protectors? Yes please! It was a tad bit graphic for my taste but the amazing characters had me not able to stop. Devoured it in a day! Can hardly wait for the next in the series!
Slow clap 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 So when one of my fave illustrators posted he wrote a book and it was science fiction, it was an instant download for me. I love science fiction and am a big reader which means I can be picky. I was excited but guarded because I know he’s a great story teller with an amazing imagination but I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy his writing. In a world where many online personalities jump into endeavours with little thought - Jazza is a breath of fresh air. It’s clear that he truly put the work in, edits, re-writes, beta readers, being open to critiques and this book is better for it. Well done!
Set deep in the mines of an alien planet I fell in love with our brother/ sister team-as they discovered strengths they didn’t know they had. Loved the found family aspect of this book. I cheered on their successes and mourned the losses. I know it’s a good book when I shed a few tears and that happened multiple times. Two giant grumpy, yet secretly soft, bear protectors? Yes please! It was a tad bit graphic for my taste but the amazing characters had me not able to stop. Devoured it in a day! Can hardly wait for the next in the series!
November 30, 2025
A fantastic debut!! Can't wait for the next book in this series and anything else Jazza decides to write
September 5, 2025
Amazing story
Really liked reading the story, looking forward to read the next books in the serie.
It was nice to see the world grow, and how the people changed and grow through the story.
The book was hard to put down once started.
Really liked reading the story, looking forward to read the next books in the serie.
It was nice to see the world grow, and how the people changed and grow through the story.
The book was hard to put down once started.
August 29, 2025
Wow—what a debut! The Ascendants does not read like a first novel at all. The world is vivid, the characters feel alive, and the pacing had me saying “just one more chapter” until I was up way too late. Jazza Brooks has really knocked it out of the park on his first try—I can’t wait to see what he writes next!
September 30, 2025
I have been a fan of his YouTube channel for roughly a decade now and I absolutly love the storytelling he does with his art.
Ordered it today and am looking forward to reading his first book very much - please hurry, Mr. postman!!!
Ordered it today and am looking forward to reading his first book very much - please hurry, Mr. postman!!!
September 10, 2025
Dang it, Jazza, you made me cry… and more than once. Deep crying- the kind where you don’t care who sees because you are that deeply connected to the story and it’s characters that you’ve come to care for them on this journey you are on together.
And what a journey it is.
The greedy administration of a remote mining colony forces its workers dig too deep and unwittingly awaken unholy terrors from their long internment.Sound familiar? Trust me, it’s not. Jazza has built a civilization that may be influenced by Native American beliefs (the Ojibwe and Potawatomi nations) mixed with a working hierarchy system to keep its people in line that is a religion. Sounds like it couldn’t possibly be made to work, but here it’s worked for centuries already.
We meet Sam and her brother Aiden and they are our main points of view as the story unfolds around them. You’ll meet a variety of people forced to work together for their own survival. Some you will come to like, some you will hate, and then you will get to know some of the newcomers- an elite group of super soldiers who arrive not to save the colony, but on a mission from god to fetch a relic that has been forgotten deep within the planet. A relic that will help to repel corruption from the universe for good.
How far would you go to save those you love? Can faith pull you through when it is all you have left? For the unbeliever, what happens when you are faced with proof of the religion you’ve removed yourself from turns out to be real- and made of beings not all that dissimilar from yourself?
I admit, I walked into this story thinking it’s going to just be another alien slasher space horror… and yes, the “monsters” are going to inflict a bloodbath on a horrific scale and Jazza gives us an up close and personal look from the heart of the attacks. If you are easily disturbed reading of blood and gore- this is not the book for you. It is not gratuitous, but there to remind us that this is ultimately a story of survival and who we choose to become when forced into a corner.
There is also (at least in my digital ARC copy) inner art and a useful diagram of both the facility as well as the cargo bay where our survivors spend the most time. You’ll also find several interludes where we told a story from Naabek, the head of the soldiers. Surprisingly, he will grow on you immensely by the end.
You will find names with far too many vowels and the details of the religion may irritate from time-to-time as Sam chafes under Aiden’s ardent belief, but it was never enough to kick me out of the story- in fact, I was sad to finally reach its end- but (yay!) in the acknowledgments Jazza states this is just the first in a planned quadrology and I am excited to see where we go from here!
I have to throw up a disclaimer here that I received an ARC copy of the book, but that in no way has influenced my review, nor has the fact that Jazza is an fun entertainer on YouTube who I have enjoyed watching in the past. I can honestly say that I enjoyed this story so much that I will happily be buying the series as it releases.
And what a journey it is.
The greedy administration of a remote mining colony forces its workers dig too deep and unwittingly awaken unholy terrors from their long internment.Sound familiar? Trust me, it’s not. Jazza has built a civilization that may be influenced by Native American beliefs (the Ojibwe and Potawatomi nations) mixed with a working hierarchy system to keep its people in line that is a religion. Sounds like it couldn’t possibly be made to work, but here it’s worked for centuries already.
We meet Sam and her brother Aiden and they are our main points of view as the story unfolds around them. You’ll meet a variety of people forced to work together for their own survival. Some you will come to like, some you will hate, and then you will get to know some of the newcomers- an elite group of super soldiers who arrive not to save the colony, but on a mission from god to fetch a relic that has been forgotten deep within the planet. A relic that will help to repel corruption from the universe for good.
How far would you go to save those you love? Can faith pull you through when it is all you have left? For the unbeliever, what happens when you are faced with proof of the religion you’ve removed yourself from turns out to be real- and made of beings not all that dissimilar from yourself?
I admit, I walked into this story thinking it’s going to just be another alien slasher space horror… and yes, the “monsters” are going to inflict a bloodbath on a horrific scale and Jazza gives us an up close and personal look from the heart of the attacks. If you are easily disturbed reading of blood and gore- this is not the book for you. It is not gratuitous, but there to remind us that this is ultimately a story of survival and who we choose to become when forced into a corner.
There is also (at least in my digital ARC copy) inner art and a useful diagram of both the facility as well as the cargo bay where our survivors spend the most time. You’ll also find several interludes where we told a story from Naabek, the head of the soldiers. Surprisingly, he will grow on you immensely by the end.
You will find names with far too many vowels and the details of the religion may irritate from time-to-time as Sam chafes under Aiden’s ardent belief, but it was never enough to kick me out of the story- in fact, I was sad to finally reach its end- but (yay!) in the acknowledgments Jazza states this is just the first in a planned quadrology and I am excited to see where we go from here!
I have to throw up a disclaimer here that I received an ARC copy of the book, but that in no way has influenced my review, nor has the fact that Jazza is an fun entertainer on YouTube who I have enjoyed watching in the past. I can honestly say that I enjoyed this story so much that I will happily be buying the series as it releases.
December 14, 2025
First and foremost, the book is fantastic. It blew my expectations out of the water and is easily one of the best books I've read this year. I've been a fan of Jazza for a long time now, but when I heard that he was publishing a novel, his first novel, the first in a series... it sounded like a novice with far too much ambition shooting for the stars. Which is fine! I just set my expectations accordingly.
Jazza blew past my bar with a novel that's well written and paced, with fun characters, and vivid imagery. The characters are believably human, stressed and pushed to their limits in a dire situation. So when they do act irrationally, it doesn't make me go "why did these morons choose to do this?" but instead "oh crap, nooooo!".
The protagonists are Sam Weaver and her brother Aiden. Sam is an overprotective big sister, and Aiden is an asthmatic nerd. I'll be honest, when I saw Sam was the leading role of the novel I worried that this was gonna go down the recent Hollywood-Girlboss trend, but thankfully it doesn't. Sam is smart and capable, but she is constantly trying to help and uplift the equally competent male characters around her, who all get their moments to shine. In fact, she is overprotective to the point of self-sabatoging, a recurring point in the book that becomes relevant even until the finally.
I don't know if its just coincidence, but I wonder if Sam Weaver is named after Sigorny Weaver, who played Ripley in the Alien franchise (also a woman trapped on a ship / planet infested with horrific murderous alien monsters).
The worldbuilding is fun, although it is very much "Warhammer 40K with the serial numbers filed off". The one note I'd like to make on that is that this novel is NOT grimdark. It's got the aesthetics, but grimdark is a tone. In true grimdark, everything sucks for everyone all the time. There are no happy endings. No good deed goes unpunished. In the case of the Warhammer universe, there is never-ending war. "Fifteen Hours" is the only Warhammer book I've read. It, along with "The First Law" trilogy, are the only grimdark books I've read, before I decided that they're really not my thing. Jazza's "The Ascendents" is NOT grimdark, it features strong character moments and ends... not completely miserably for everyone involved. Which is a GOOD thing, in my personal opinion!
If you're into sci-fi like Warhammer, with all its over the top vibes and violence, but want a more human story set in it, this is the novel for you.
Jazza blew past my bar with a novel that's well written and paced, with fun characters, and vivid imagery. The characters are believably human, stressed and pushed to their limits in a dire situation. So when they do act irrationally, it doesn't make me go "why did these morons choose to do this?" but instead "oh crap, nooooo!".
The protagonists are Sam Weaver and her brother Aiden. Sam is an overprotective big sister, and Aiden is an asthmatic nerd. I'll be honest, when I saw Sam was the leading role of the novel I worried that this was gonna go down the recent Hollywood-Girlboss trend, but thankfully it doesn't. Sam is smart and capable, but she is constantly trying to help and uplift the equally competent male characters around her, who all get their moments to shine. In fact, she is overprotective to the point of self-sabatoging, a recurring point in the book that becomes relevant even until the finally.
I don't know if its just coincidence, but I wonder if Sam Weaver is named after Sigorny Weaver, who played Ripley in the Alien franchise (also a woman trapped on a ship / planet infested with horrific murderous alien monsters).
The worldbuilding is fun, although it is very much "Warhammer 40K with the serial numbers filed off". The one note I'd like to make on that is that this novel is NOT grimdark. It's got the aesthetics, but grimdark is a tone. In true grimdark, everything sucks for everyone all the time. There are no happy endings. No good deed goes unpunished. In the case of the Warhammer universe, there is never-ending war. "Fifteen Hours" is the only Warhammer book I've read. It, along with "The First Law" trilogy, are the only grimdark books I've read, before I decided that they're really not my thing. Jazza's "The Ascendents" is NOT grimdark, it features strong character moments and ends... not completely miserably for everyone involved. Which is a GOOD thing, in my personal opinion!
If you're into sci-fi like Warhammer, with all its over the top vibes and violence, but want a more human story set in it, this is the novel for you.
October 6, 2025
You may say that I am too liberal with my star ratings and that may be a fair point, EXCEPT when it comes to this book. For this being a first novel, it is absolutely and utterly amazing. What has enhanced it for me as well is that you can follow his process of writing and debuting this book on his vlog channel on YouTube (Jazza's Vlog). Let's just say that it is quite obvious where all, and I mean ALL, of the artistic talent went in the Brooks family. Not only is he a better superior artist to his brother (I will not give him the credit of even being named), he is also a vastly superior author to him as well.
Again, this will have a general overview and should not contain any major spoilers.
The setting of this book, a mining colony on an alien planet, is so well thought through and designed. Everything from how power is generated, hierarchy of jobs/titles/people, "religious" aspect, and overall layout of the places involved and mentioned in the story, is simply well done. Everything is described with enough detail that you can form your own picture in your mind (and he even includes his own original art in the book) without those details seeming overwhelming or like they are trying to carry too much.
The characters are very well developed. Obviously, the main characters have a lot more depth to them, as they should, but even the minor characters are fully developed. I think he was even right on with some of the names of the characters because, let's be honest, when you hear the name Trevor, you picture him to be exactly how a Trevor would act (Maybe that's just me and my past interactions with Trevors). Sam and Aiden (brother and sister) have an interesting dynamic as siblings. It is something that has been done in other books, but Jazza adds his own unique flare to it.
The Starborn Warriors are a wonderful concept that works so well in this setting. They are an original type of being that he created for this story. And, as with everything else, they are perfectly done and utilized.
If, and it is a big IF, I had one criticism it would be that, at least with the e-book, I think it would have been better to have the definitions/pronunciations at the beginning, since you come across most of them early on.
Definitely a 5-star read and would recommend to anyone who likes sci-fi or low fantasy novels in general.
Again, this will have a general overview and should not contain any major spoilers.
The setting of this book, a mining colony on an alien planet, is so well thought through and designed. Everything from how power is generated, hierarchy of jobs/titles/people, "religious" aspect, and overall layout of the places involved and mentioned in the story, is simply well done. Everything is described with enough detail that you can form your own picture in your mind (and he even includes his own original art in the book) without those details seeming overwhelming or like they are trying to carry too much.
The characters are very well developed. Obviously, the main characters have a lot more depth to them, as they should, but even the minor characters are fully developed. I think he was even right on with some of the names of the characters because, let's be honest, when you hear the name Trevor, you picture him to be exactly how a Trevor would act (Maybe that's just me and my past interactions with Trevors). Sam and Aiden (brother and sister) have an interesting dynamic as siblings. It is something that has been done in other books, but Jazza adds his own unique flare to it.
The Starborn Warriors are a wonderful concept that works so well in this setting. They are an original type of being that he created for this story. And, as with everything else, they are perfectly done and utilized.
If, and it is a big IF, I had one criticism it would be that, at least with the e-book, I think it would have been better to have the definitions/pronunciations at the beginning, since you come across most of them early on.
Definitely a 5-star read and would recommend to anyone who likes sci-fi or low fantasy novels in general.
December 1, 2025
The Ascendants is a well-written debut by YouTube personality Jazza Brooks. I read it because he promoted it on his channel and I’ve liked a lot of what he does there; but I’m very sorry that I did so, because the book gave me nightmares. As a matter of fact, I only chose to finish the book so I could write this review.
Positively, the book has some fascinating characters and a very carefully crafted universe with clear good and evil. Jazza has very carefully thought out his environment and does some great world-building. However, this care is spoiled by his almost maniacal focus on the hyper-disgusting gidaanawe (“roaches”). After reading the first four or so chapters, I had trouble sleeping at night. Having watched his YouTube videos where he built a life-size cosplay of the monsters didn’t help. In addition, the main god-like power, the Zenitharch, is morally ambiguous enough that I found it difficult to root for his followers. That the titular “Ascendants” are effectively Transhumanists makes the book even less delightful for me. Again, this should not be surprising if one follows some of Jazza’s more creepy YouTube videos (e.g. making a life-size Emperor from Warhammer). I found myself not rooting for any of the main characters and every time I thought I was beginning to like someone, they either did something that turned me off or got killed off. Sad. The book could have been so much better if less time had been spent on the gross and gory and more on building up the main characters and making them likeable; especially Naabek, whom I badly wanted to like, but every time he did something positive, it was outweighed by something disturbing.
If you don’t like the horror genre, like I don’t, I’d recommend you pass on it. It is a passable sci-fi fantasy book overall and the art is pretty cool, too. After all, Jazza is a very gifted illustrator. But he needs some help in crafting a book that is less disturbing.
Positively, the book has some fascinating characters and a very carefully crafted universe with clear good and evil. Jazza has very carefully thought out his environment and does some great world-building. However, this care is spoiled by his almost maniacal focus on the hyper-disgusting gidaanawe (“roaches”). After reading the first four or so chapters, I had trouble sleeping at night. Having watched his YouTube videos where he built a life-size cosplay of the monsters didn’t help. In addition, the main god-like power, the Zenitharch, is morally ambiguous enough that I found it difficult to root for his followers. That the titular “Ascendants” are effectively Transhumanists makes the book even less delightful for me. Again, this should not be surprising if one follows some of Jazza’s more creepy YouTube videos (e.g. making a life-size Emperor from Warhammer). I found myself not rooting for any of the main characters and every time I thought I was beginning to like someone, they either did something that turned me off or got killed off. Sad. The book could have been so much better if less time had been spent on the gross and gory and more on building up the main characters and making them likeable; especially Naabek, whom I badly wanted to like, but every time he did something positive, it was outweighed by something disturbing.
If you don’t like the horror genre, like I don’t, I’d recommend you pass on it. It is a passable sci-fi fantasy book overall and the art is pretty cool, too. After all, Jazza is a very gifted illustrator. But he needs some help in crafting a book that is less disturbing.
October 1, 2025
I have nothing but praise for the amount of work that went into this boom. Having watched Jazza create art and huge projects on YouTube for a number of years I was excited to hear that he was writing a book. It is definitely one for those who enjoy Alien, War of the Worlds or even the Ancients from Stargate:SG1.
1. It took me a while to purchase this book as I didn’t want to get just because it’s Jazza’s. I wanted to make sure that I wanted to stray from my usual brand of fantasy novels towards sci-fi. I’m delighted that I did.
2. I enjoyed the pace of the book and felt that it was fast moving and the plot moves on smoothly and quickly. The action starts early on and continues on through to the end.
3. I loved most of the characters, and loved that they all managed to put their opinions of each other aside so they could work together on surviving.
My only complaint would be that there is a bit of a lull where all seems to be quiet regarding the Gidaanwe like they’re almost forgotten about as there is a big shift in the focus of the story.
Well done to Jazza on his debut novel. I look forward to the sequel.
1. It took me a while to purchase this book as I didn’t want to get just because it’s Jazza’s. I wanted to make sure that I wanted to stray from my usual brand of fantasy novels towards sci-fi. I’m delighted that I did.
2. I enjoyed the pace of the book and felt that it was fast moving and the plot moves on smoothly and quickly. The action starts early on and continues on through to the end.
3. I loved most of the characters, and loved that they all managed to put their opinions of each other aside so they could work together on surviving.
My only complaint would be that there is a bit of a lull where all seems to be quiet regarding the Gidaanwe like they’re almost forgotten about as there is a big shift in the focus of the story.
Well done to Jazza on his debut novel. I look forward to the sequel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2025
I’m not one for leaving reviews but this is pretty significant to me. I’m always a fan of supporting new/first time authors, and especially in this case I love that Jazza was already so established in his other art forms, and could’ve stayed comfortable in those, but instead chose to continue to push himself into new creative fields. That type of desire for self-betterment is so inspiring to me.
And, the book is awesome! Today’s book market is more saturated than ever with crappy, formulaic, run-of-the-mill, just-for-a-big-profit books, especially with the rise of AI. This is not one of those books! The world is very original and intriguing, and the characters are likable and compelling and feel very real. The writing at no point felt like it was a cheap Wattpad story as is unfortunately increasingly common. Jazza’s got chops! Every chapter kept me very engaged.
And, most significantly, it’s very human. You can so evidently feel the emotion and heart that he put into writing it. When a creative project is a passion project, it’s obvious, and it’s obvious here that Jazza deeply cared about this story being told.
Very much looking forward to more!
And, the book is awesome! Today’s book market is more saturated than ever with crappy, formulaic, run-of-the-mill, just-for-a-big-profit books, especially with the rise of AI. This is not one of those books! The world is very original and intriguing, and the characters are likable and compelling and feel very real. The writing at no point felt like it was a cheap Wattpad story as is unfortunately increasingly common. Jazza’s got chops! Every chapter kept me very engaged.
And, most significantly, it’s very human. You can so evidently feel the emotion and heart that he put into writing it. When a creative project is a passion project, it’s obvious, and it’s obvious here that Jazza deeply cared about this story being told.
Very much looking forward to more!
December 28, 2025
Imagine being stuck in a dark, claustrophobic mining colony called Strata Multorum Y9. You’re Samantha Weaver, a hard-working miner just trying to live day by day so you can help support your sickly brother Aiden’s. It’s a classic "work-to-live" grind until the colony's drills hit something they shouldn’t have: an ancient swarm of hungry, shadow-dwelling monsters.
The colony’s oligarchs (predictably) were misusing power where the many support the few at the top, leaving the workers on the lower levels to die. Just when things look bleak, the "Starborn" warriors show up. But instead of being the heroic cavalry, they’re more like cosmic looters who care more about an ancient treasure than the dying miners. It’s a story of survival, sibling love, and why you should never trust a corporation with a Latin name.
Overall the plot was confusing with Gleep Glop names like “Tenebrax”. Most of the action was Warhammer 40k or Starcraft, just space marines versus bugs.
I wish it was simpler, just un-willing heroes save a space colony using quick wit and perseverance. There is a lot of different themes which muddy the water.
Not a recommend.
The colony’s oligarchs (predictably) were misusing power where the many support the few at the top, leaving the workers on the lower levels to die. Just when things look bleak, the "Starborn" warriors show up. But instead of being the heroic cavalry, they’re more like cosmic looters who care more about an ancient treasure than the dying miners. It’s a story of survival, sibling love, and why you should never trust a corporation with a Latin name.
Overall the plot was confusing with Gleep Glop names like “Tenebrax”. Most of the action was Warhammer 40k or Starcraft, just space marines versus bugs.
I wish it was simpler, just un-willing heroes save a space colony using quick wit and perseverance. There is a lot of different themes which muddy the water.
Not a recommend.
November 18, 2025
2.75 stars. Awesome ideas, poor execution.
This book was not what I expected or hoped for. Based on the summary I expected to read a sci-fi survival horror novel about survivors stuck in a mining colony, fighting for their lives and on a mission to reach the surface (and salvation). I was surprised when Samantha and the others reached the surface only 10% of the way into the book. That's it???
The rest of the novel dragged on. I found the writing style laborious, juvenile, and boring to read - it felt like I was reading a middle-grade novel but with 16+ content due to the gore and violence. I lost interest pretty quickly and didn't care whether any of the characters would make it.
I'm sure that these issues are due to it being the author's first novel. I hope that as the series continues his writing style and quality continues to improve because he's got some cool ideas.
This book was not what I expected or hoped for. Based on the summary I expected to read a sci-fi survival horror novel about survivors stuck in a mining colony, fighting for their lives and on a mission to reach the surface (and salvation). I was surprised when Samantha and the others reached the surface only 10% of the way into the book. That's it???
The rest of the novel dragged on. I found the writing style laborious, juvenile, and boring to read - it felt like I was reading a middle-grade novel but with 16+ content due to the gore and violence. I lost interest pretty quickly and didn't care whether any of the characters would make it.
I'm sure that these issues are due to it being the author's first novel. I hope that as the series continues his writing style and quality continues to improve because he's got some cool ideas.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2025
Absolutely loved the book. The opening made me curious, the first two chapters had me hooked. I read the book through the course of four days, and for me (slow reader) this must have been the quickest I've ever devoured a book.
The mix of sci-fi, mystique, and fantasy had a few surprises up its sleave, and took a few turns that I had not expected. The story does a great job of giving you just enough to keep you curious and come up with your own theories if what's unfolding and why, but never giving up all its secrets. I loved the characters and their development through the nail-biting story. They are lovable, relatable and feel real. I for one can't wait for the next book(s). What a debut, Jazza!
The mix of sci-fi, mystique, and fantasy had a few surprises up its sleave, and took a few turns that I had not expected. The story does a great job of giving you just enough to keep you curious and come up with your own theories if what's unfolding and why, but never giving up all its secrets. I loved the characters and their development through the nail-biting story. They are lovable, relatable and feel real. I for one can't wait for the next book(s). What a debut, Jazza!
December 2, 2025
I've been watching Jazza's videos since 2013, and I was not at all surprised that when I finally sat down and read this book, it was so captivating and hard to put down. I literally read it in one sitting lol. I don't normally read this type of Sci Fi, but it has quickly become a favorite. Definitely give this a shot if you like stories about overcoming great odds with well written MCs. Another plus was the multiple POVs, which is something I personally REALLY enjoy in books. The art is also beautiful, and really gave the book that little extra spice. I will absolutely be reading the rest of this series and cannot wait for the next book.
September 8, 2025
What a great piece of fiction. I have followed Jazza for years on YouTube so purchased this book to support him, but what I didn't expect was how engrossed I would become within the book, and the world. Elements of other great works come to mind when reading this story (Aliens, Gears Of War, Starship Troopers) but Jazza has created a unique world with incredible characters, who have a great depth to them - this means I was fully invested in these characters from the very beginning, taking me on a rollercoaster of emotions. Fantastic work, Jazza, I cannot wait for the next book!
September 12, 2025
I expected this book to be great, and it certainly was! I loved every tense moment, every beautifully written description! Even though every part of this story is fantastical and other-worldy, it fealt so real, like the characters, creatures, and places were right in front of me. Speaking of characters, they're full of depth, which is one of the reasons they're so believable and well-written! I can't wait for the next installment!
September 17, 2025
The writing was engaging. The descriptions vivid and they painted a clear picture in your mind. The characters were realistic, whether they were inspiring or annoying and believable.
The world building and the setting is clearly influenced by many know franchises (ie Warhammer 40k, Alien, Dune) but it manages to spin those familiar elements to a unique world that succeeds to stand out on it's own.
I am looking forward for the next installment of the Threadweavers
The world building and the setting is clearly influenced by many know franchises (ie Warhammer 40k, Alien, Dune) but it manages to spin those familiar elements to a unique world that succeeds to stand out on it's own.
I am looking forward for the next installment of the Threadweavers
September 27, 2025
I absolutely adored the entire book. The characters are all really well fleshed out and relatable in different ways. The setting was super clear in my mind and drew me in. The action was gruesome and realistic and heart wrenching. I almost finished the entire book in one sitting last night and had to pull myself away at 5am to make sure I got a tiny bit of sleep today haha
The last line sent tingles through me and I cannot wait for the rest of the series; I am so hooked.
The last line sent tingles through me and I cannot wait for the rest of the series; I am so hooked.
December 24, 2025
I’ll be honest I had high hopes and they were not just met but knocked out the park! What a fantastic story! The descriptions paint a perfect picture, it was like I was watching it all happen like a fly on the wall, I was so drawn into the world! So many twists and turns and the character development is brilliant! I wish I could wipe my memory and read it all over again! I can’t wait for the second book to see what happens next! 😁
September 10, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyed this read. It exceed my expectations and really shows the the love and dedication of the Author; whenever I thought it was going onwards into a trope, it sidestepped in the most favourable way.
My only disappointment is that the second book isn't available upon the launch of the first.
My only disappointment is that the second book isn't available upon the launch of the first.
September 14, 2025
A work of art
I first knew of Jazza as a YouTube creator, and he is very good at that. Then he posted a video about writing a book, so I figured it couldn't be too bad. I got it on Kindle and read it. It is the type of book that you wish would never end, and I hope there will be a sequel. I'm pretty sure he is planning a series and I plan to read them all.
I first knew of Jazza as a YouTube creator, and he is very good at that. Then he posted a video about writing a book, so I figured it couldn't be too bad. I got it on Kindle and read it. It is the type of book that you wish would never end, and I hope there will be a sequel. I'm pretty sure he is planning a series and I plan to read them all.
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