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Ascension of the Seven
Willow comes from a family of law enforcement, her father being the Chief of Police, and her brother a detective. As the black sheep, she didn’t care what mischief she caused. It got her attention from her parents. It wasn’t until her brother’s brutal murder—her life change forever, setting in motion her fate.
12 years later, Willow has worked her way up the ranks—becoming a lead detective, pursuing her obsession with finding his killer. It isn’t until a murder in their home town hits, spinning in motion her chance for justice.
All signs point to the new mortician—a brooding, dark figure with a reputation as cold as the corpses he tends to. As Willow digs deeper, an unexpected twist shakes her reality, forcing her to question everything she’s ever known. In a world where the living and dead walk along a blurred line, Willow must face her darkest fears—or risk being lost in the shadows.
12 years later, Willow has worked her way up the ranks—becoming a lead detective, pursuing her obsession with finding his killer. It isn’t until a murder in their home town hits, spinning in motion her chance for justice.
All signs point to the new mortician—a brooding, dark figure with a reputation as cold as the corpses he tends to. As Willow digs deeper, an unexpected twist shakes her reality, forcing her to question everything she’s ever known. In a world where the living and dead walk along a blurred line, Willow must face her darkest fears—or risk being lost in the shadows.
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Published September 30, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
September 11, 2025
Bailey Black's debut novel, 'Ascension of the Seven,' was an exciting read with slow momentum at first, but ends with a whirlpool of emotion and unforgettable plot.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. The beginning of the story was intriguing with back-story that flowed well and really did set a great mood for the environment and the overall 'vibe' of the story. The reader gets to meet prominent characters in a way that doesn't feel overwhelming which is nice when dealing with such aspects like a whole police station and a town where anybody and everybody can become important as we progress.
I will say that the voice of the characters in the first half really made me feel like I was reading a YA book with people of high school age. The main character, a detective named Willow, had a much younger feel than someone that had made the ranks to detective, especially during dialog with a friend that works with crime scenes. During the slow-burn plot to set up the story it also felt rushed in why Willow blames the new town's mortician (mentioned in the books summary so not a spoiler, don't fret!).
During the middle half of the book, the author really starts finding her literary voice and the plot just clicks in to place. All the characters suddenly have my interest and I have an emotional attachment to every single one. My earlier gripes about them sounding young was no longer the case. I found myself not only intrigued, but really getting in to the "who did it?!" head-space. The second half of the story was so unique and genuinely felt like the stakes were raised for everybody involved. I found myself staying up far past my bedtime for work in order to continue. Even when you think something was predictable, Bailey uses her literary skills to put a fresh twist on it.
I can honestly say that I am looking forward to this series. After what I felt was a bit of a rougher start (not bad, I swear) the story really sinks it's teeth in to you. If you're the type of reader that loves a mix of paranormal meets Law & Order, this would be a great read for you!
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. The beginning of the story was intriguing with back-story that flowed well and really did set a great mood for the environment and the overall 'vibe' of the story. The reader gets to meet prominent characters in a way that doesn't feel overwhelming which is nice when dealing with such aspects like a whole police station and a town where anybody and everybody can become important as we progress.
I will say that the voice of the characters in the first half really made me feel like I was reading a YA book with people of high school age. The main character, a detective named Willow, had a much younger feel than someone that had made the ranks to detective, especially during dialog with a friend that works with crime scenes. During the slow-burn plot to set up the story it also felt rushed in why Willow blames the new town's mortician (mentioned in the books summary so not a spoiler, don't fret!).
During the middle half of the book, the author really starts finding her literary voice and the plot just clicks in to place. All the characters suddenly have my interest and I have an emotional attachment to every single one. My earlier gripes about them sounding young was no longer the case. I found myself not only intrigued, but really getting in to the "who did it?!" head-space. The second half of the story was so unique and genuinely felt like the stakes were raised for everybody involved. I found myself staying up far past my bedtime for work in order to continue. Even when you think something was predictable, Bailey uses her literary skills to put a fresh twist on it.
I can honestly say that I am looking forward to this series. After what I felt was a bit of a rougher start (not bad, I swear) the story really sinks it's teeth in to you. If you're the type of reader that loves a mix of paranormal meets Law & Order, this would be a great read for you!
September 8, 2025
I fell in love with this book immediately. From the very first pages, the main characters pulled me in and didn’t let go. Willow especially is a character who steals your heart strong, determined, and broken in all the ways that make her so real. I cried just reading the dedications, and the story itself only took me deeper.
What it’s about: Willow grew up in a family of law enforcement her father the Chief of Police, her brother a detective. Always the black sheep, she lived for mischief until tragedy shattered her world: her brother’s brutal murder. Twelve years later, Willow is now a lead detective, her life consumed by the hunt for his killer. When a new murder strikes close to home, all signs point to a brooding mortician with secrets of his own. But as Willow digs deeper, an unexpected twist shakes her entire reality blurring the line between the living and the dead, and forcing her to face her darkest fears before they consume her.Why you need this on your September TBR: This book has everything mystery, dark twists, emotional depth, and a heroine you’ll root for with every page. It’s gripping, beautifully written, and impossible to put down. Ascension of the Seven releases September 30th, and it deserves a spot at the very top of your reading list.
What it’s about: Willow grew up in a family of law enforcement her father the Chief of Police, her brother a detective. Always the black sheep, she lived for mischief until tragedy shattered her world: her brother’s brutal murder. Twelve years later, Willow is now a lead detective, her life consumed by the hunt for his killer. When a new murder strikes close to home, all signs point to a brooding mortician with secrets of his own. But as Willow digs deeper, an unexpected twist shakes her entire reality blurring the line between the living and the dead, and forcing her to face her darkest fears before they consume her.Why you need this on your September TBR: This book has everything mystery, dark twists, emotional depth, and a heroine you’ll root for with every page. It’s gripping, beautifully written, and impossible to put down. Ascension of the Seven releases September 30th, and it deserves a spot at the very top of your reading list.
November 11, 2025
This was so fun! I am so impressed by Bailey’s debut novel! I loved the genre mix of mystery and fantasy and romance. Warren and Willow are very well written main characters. The setting and side characters were also well thought out. A few parts felt slightly rushed to me, but it had that addictive don’t want to put it down and always thinking about what might happen next when you’re not reading quality which I love. It really feels like a book for the readers. She knows what we wanted and delivered it! I’m looking forward to reading what’s next!
September 28, 2025
Let's start with why 3 stars? Because it's not yet done. :)) Here me out! Every time I read a series, I like to reserve my 5 stars to THE BEST BOOK OF THE SERIES. So, for now, this book is great, no doubt, but originally, I would've rated this a 4-star, but I am deducting 1 because I was able to catch the major twist in one of the characters.
Now, that's over, I'd like to focus on what worked for me. And one of those is the pacing, see there are debut novels that has good, mid, and bad pacing. This borders on the good. It's not too fast, it's not also too slow. It's just right. I feel that starting the introduction with the emotional turmoil of our MC, Willow, is a good intro. Like THAT sets the scene and makes us understand why after all those years she's lived in the small town, she's built her entirely to being a police detective. Also, that ties in with the genre, which is fantasy, murder-mystery.
I also enjoyed the characters. They're easy to remember and to separate from. They have their own "character voices" and it's also easy to root for any of them and maybe also hate some. My favorite is Willow, and it's not because she's the main character. No, I like Willow because she's not like the over-powerful main character. She has her flaws, and flaws are important to any main character to make the story believable or at least rooted in reality. Because as a reader, you can't enjoy a novel if you don't relate or feel for any of the characters. Another is Willow and Warren's dynamic is balanced. I also enjoy Warren; I like how he's the one who's overpowered but he's still not that too knowledgeable about things despite being around for millennias. Their dynamic blends well and the tension between them is gripping, which helps.
I'm also really glad to read main characters who are NOT 20-years old and below who are supposed "genii" out here solving mysteries when they're literally still in school. So, yeah, there's adult representation with real adult problems like work relationships, making friends as an adult, family problems, and facing our own personal traumas. I think authors who can show that through their novels are very important. Because this is how they reach their audiences. So, this is really something I appreciate.
The setting. WOW! You know what? I lived abroad every now and then and I'm always looking around to find my "forever home". Reading about Oregon and doing my own research on it made me wanna move to Oregon HAHAHAHA I like it! I love how the author wrote the setting of the story. It is grounded in reality, it is easy to imagine, and if I want to, I could go to Oregon and imagine the characters driving around the small areas of Oregon. It's cute.
OKay, now about the predictability. As I've mentioned, this would've been a 4-stars had the foreshadowing been more discreet. In my experience as a professional manuscript assessor, I was able to clock on this one specific character and when the twist came to it, I already knew it and I was like: "Ah, and there it is." So, yeah. There are times when being too descriptive about a character's action can lead to predictability, so that is something I think the author could work on moving forward.
Overall, the book is written good but since the story isn't over, I am looking forward to seeing what else we'll experience alongside these characters in the next books.
Now, that's over, I'd like to focus on what worked for me. And one of those is the pacing, see there are debut novels that has good, mid, and bad pacing. This borders on the good. It's not too fast, it's not also too slow. It's just right. I feel that starting the introduction with the emotional turmoil of our MC, Willow, is a good intro. Like THAT sets the scene and makes us understand why after all those years she's lived in the small town, she's built her entirely to being a police detective. Also, that ties in with the genre, which is fantasy, murder-mystery.
I also enjoyed the characters. They're easy to remember and to separate from. They have their own "character voices" and it's also easy to root for any of them and maybe also hate some. My favorite is Willow, and it's not because she's the main character. No, I like Willow because she's not like the over-powerful main character. She has her flaws, and flaws are important to any main character to make the story believable or at least rooted in reality. Because as a reader, you can't enjoy a novel if you don't relate or feel for any of the characters. Another is Willow and Warren's dynamic is balanced. I also enjoy Warren; I like how he's the one who's overpowered but he's still not that too knowledgeable about things despite being around for millennias. Their dynamic blends well and the tension between them is gripping, which helps.
I'm also really glad to read main characters who are NOT 20-years old and below who are supposed "genii" out here solving mysteries when they're literally still in school. So, yeah, there's adult representation with real adult problems like work relationships, making friends as an adult, family problems, and facing our own personal traumas. I think authors who can show that through their novels are very important. Because this is how they reach their audiences. So, this is really something I appreciate.
The setting. WOW! You know what? I lived abroad every now and then and I'm always looking around to find my "forever home". Reading about Oregon and doing my own research on it made me wanna move to Oregon HAHAHAHA I like it! I love how the author wrote the setting of the story. It is grounded in reality, it is easy to imagine, and if I want to, I could go to Oregon and imagine the characters driving around the small areas of Oregon. It's cute.
OKay, now about the predictability. As I've mentioned, this would've been a 4-stars had the foreshadowing been more discreet. In my experience as a professional manuscript assessor, I was able to clock on this one specific character and when the twist came to it, I already knew it and I was like: "Ah, and there it is." So, yeah. There are times when being too descriptive about a character's action can lead to predictability, so that is something I think the author could work on moving forward.
Overall, the book is written good but since the story isn't over, I am looking forward to seeing what else we'll experience alongside these characters in the next books.
November 4, 2025
Shadows in the Small Town
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½
Ascension of the Seven by Bailey Black starts as a straightforward crime thriller before taking a sharp and intriguing supernatural turn. At first, the story felt a little slow and basic — the early chapters leaned heavily on familiar detective tropes, and I wasn’t immediately drawn in. However, as the supernatural elements began to surface, the plot gained momentum and depth, transforming into something far more engaging.
I really enjoyed the small-town setting; it added a sense of intimacy and warmth that balanced the darker, eerie tones of the mystery. Those cozy details—the local diners, the quiet streets, the familiar faces—helped ground the story even as the line between life and death began to blur.
Willow’s character arc was compelling, shaped by grief, guilt, and determination. Her drive to solve her brother’s murder felt raw and believable. That said, the ending didn’t quite land for me. I especially didn’t love how things wrapped up between Willow and Warren—their dynamic felt unresolved and a bit unsatisfying after all the tension built throughout.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½
Ascension of the Seven by Bailey Black starts as a straightforward crime thriller before taking a sharp and intriguing supernatural turn. At first, the story felt a little slow and basic — the early chapters leaned heavily on familiar detective tropes, and I wasn’t immediately drawn in. However, as the supernatural elements began to surface, the plot gained momentum and depth, transforming into something far more engaging.
I really enjoyed the small-town setting; it added a sense of intimacy and warmth that balanced the darker, eerie tones of the mystery. Those cozy details—the local diners, the quiet streets, the familiar faces—helped ground the story even as the line between life and death began to blur.
Willow’s character arc was compelling, shaped by grief, guilt, and determination. Her drive to solve her brother’s murder felt raw and believable. That said, the ending didn’t quite land for me. I especially didn’t love how things wrapped up between Willow and Warren—their dynamic felt unresolved and a bit unsatisfying after all the tension built throughout.
November 17, 2025
It isn’t bad. If Good reads allowed half stars, I would have given it 3.5. The writer is just getting her feet wet, and you can tell. It doesn’t mean that I do not see potential there. This book reminds me of something you would find in one of the fringe sections of Harlequin. (With that said, I love me some Gena Showalter) It is good, if you are just in the mood for something predictable to kill your time—kind of like if you really love Hallmark Christmas movies…even though you know the protagonist is going to end up with the flannel wearing hometown guy 😊. I’m not saying this gives Halmark vibes, but you get my point. I’m not going to pull out any spoilers, because of your looking for a book to chill with, while you stay warm this coming winter, there are worse choices…and wouldn’t want to spoil the ride for you. Glad I borrowed from a friend, because I wouldn’t want to pay money for this book, but if you find at your local library, or if kindle has it for less than $4, go for it!
December 31, 2025
I love this book!
It starts out kind of slow, and is a bit more upbeat than what I would typically choose to read- as a girly who loves pain and suffering unfortunately 🤣. I absolutely love willows arc and getting to see her come to terms with vulnerability and choosing to trust. The loss near the end of the book was an absolute SHOCK that left my jaw open. I will say that Im moderately disappointed at the lack of resolution between to the two main characters at the end of the book. It felt like we could’ve gotten a little more 1 on 1 time to resolve or even discuss the big ✨event✨ that transpired between them, but I do understand wanted to leave room for the 2nd book. It definitely left me wanting more and excited to read what she puts out next! I love this authors take on the supernatural and good vs evil or even good and evil and the use of God. It’s not something you typically see in books. Very fun and easy read!
It starts out kind of slow, and is a bit more upbeat than what I would typically choose to read- as a girly who loves pain and suffering unfortunately 🤣. I absolutely love willows arc and getting to see her come to terms with vulnerability and choosing to trust. The loss near the end of the book was an absolute SHOCK that left my jaw open. I will say that Im moderately disappointed at the lack of resolution between to the two main characters at the end of the book. It felt like we could’ve gotten a little more 1 on 1 time to resolve or even discuss the big ✨event✨ that transpired between them, but I do understand wanted to leave room for the 2nd book. It definitely left me wanting more and excited to read what she puts out next! I love this authors take on the supernatural and good vs evil or even good and evil and the use of God. It’s not something you typically see in books. Very fun and easy read!
September 29, 2025
✨e-Arc Review✨
Despite a slow start, I was immediately engrossed in this book. Willow is awkward, stubborn, yet very kind. Because of her power and pain, she seemed so real to me. Their push-and-pull relationship was enjoyable to me, and Warren was an intriguing character. The Oregon locale gave the piece a gloomy, small-town air that I found appealing. Some of the surprises were expected, but others were unexpected. In the second half, everything made sense, and I couldn't stop reading. I liked how the mystery and eerie aspects were well-balanced. Stress, heartache, and a glimmer of optimism kept it going.
Thank you author for giving me the opportunity to read this wonderful Arc.
Despite a slow start, I was immediately engrossed in this book. Willow is awkward, stubborn, yet very kind. Because of her power and pain, she seemed so real to me. Their push-and-pull relationship was enjoyable to me, and Warren was an intriguing character. The Oregon locale gave the piece a gloomy, small-town air that I found appealing. Some of the surprises were expected, but others were unexpected. In the second half, everything made sense, and I couldn't stop reading. I liked how the mystery and eerie aspects were well-balanced. Stress, heartache, and a glimmer of optimism kept it going.
Thank you author for giving me the opportunity to read this wonderful Arc.
September 30, 2025
An absolutely solid paranormal murder mystery book. With a grumpy, out for answers FMC, and a mysterious MMC with secrets he's determined to keep, the unlikely pairing turns out to be exactly what Misty Pines needs.
The world-building in this book is phenomenal, and while the story starts out slow, the ending will leave you wanting the next book asap (because, um, yes, please, I need more WarrenXWillow). I did like that there were parts that ended up being somewhat predictable after the revelation, but also some surprise twists that will leave you absolutely floored!
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review!
The world-building in this book is phenomenal, and while the story starts out slow, the ending will leave you wanting the next book asap (because, um, yes, please, I need more WarrenXWillow). I did like that there were parts that ended up being somewhat predictable after the revelation, but also some surprise twists that will leave you absolutely floored!
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review!
November 14, 2025
I’m so impressed by this debut novel! I enjoyed the genre mix of mystery and fantasy. I enjoyed getting to know the characters. The storyline felt both familiar and unique at the same time which I loved. I wish the ending had been a bit less rushed is my only note! I can’t wait to read the next one.
December 1, 2025
I feel like so many questions were brought up during this book. While many were answered, I have just as many that I will be anxiously awaiting to learn about in a future book.
I greatly enjoyed the characters and the setting. I love a little true crime with a side of paranormal romance. And this totally scratched that itch. Fantastic!
I greatly enjoyed the characters and the setting. I love a little true crime with a side of paranormal romance. And this totally scratched that itch. Fantastic!
January 2, 2026
I liked this book, I just wish it was a bit longer with more detail or interactions between the two main characters. I wish they build MORE of a friendship before the full moon scene. I also wish we got More after, because they kinda just blow over what happens. Maybe it will be brought up in book 2?
Still, I would recommend this as a little cute read.
Oh, and those reasons don’t take away that the plot itself was still a good idea in my opinion, just a romance subplot.
Still, I would recommend this as a little cute read.
Oh, and those reasons don’t take away that the plot itself was still a good idea in my opinion, just a romance subplot.
September 21, 2025
After her brother’s death, the FMC Willow dedicates her life to finding out what happened. Through this she becomes a detective and gets involved in solving a murder. This leads us to the MMC Warren who is not what he appears to be. I really enjoyed these two characters. This book has everything I love to read. There’s mystery, murders, paranormal characters and spicy times. Some of the twists came out of left field and I never quite knew where anything stood. I loved it.
October 13, 2025
I could have read this book in one day but work got in the way. I enjoyed the way it kept my attention from the first page until the last. The way the author weaved in points of Faith along with the Spice was subtle and unique and Very Well Done. I liked the supernatural elements and the lore. It definitely is a different take on Vampires and other creatures/demons of the night mixed in with a small town's everyday life. The Fmc is Badass, Sassy, doesn't give a F**k what it takes to protect her friends or find the truth....
October 25, 2025
4/5⭐️
There’s just something about a murder mystery (set in a small town and in autumn!) with a hint of supernatural that instantly hooks me. It’s why I was so happy going into this debut! The vibes were immaculate. Vampires, demons, witches, magical objects, secrets, twists. What’s not to love?!
We follow Willow, a detective who is still haunted by her brother’s mysterious death, as she tries to solve a murder case that hits too close to home. Then there’s Warren, a new mortician in town who is clearly hiding something. Both have their secrets and both want to solve the case for their own reasons which forces them to work side by side. Willow and Warren were the embodiment of black cat/morally gray grump and their banter was so much fun to read!
The reason why I gave the book 4 stars was that the pacing towards the end felt a little chaotic and some inner monologues or scenes (casino, even though it was essential to the story) repeated a bit too often with nothing really being resolved. It kinda made it harder for me to pick it up again. I’m also not a big fan of “love triangles” and figured *that* twist pretty early on.
Still, as a debut, it was amazing and I’m very curious and excited for the sequel or anything else Bailey Black might write in the future!
There’s just something about a murder mystery (set in a small town and in autumn!) with a hint of supernatural that instantly hooks me. It’s why I was so happy going into this debut! The vibes were immaculate. Vampires, demons, witches, magical objects, secrets, twists. What’s not to love?!
We follow Willow, a detective who is still haunted by her brother’s mysterious death, as she tries to solve a murder case that hits too close to home. Then there’s Warren, a new mortician in town who is clearly hiding something. Both have their secrets and both want to solve the case for their own reasons which forces them to work side by side. Willow and Warren were the embodiment of black cat/morally gray grump and their banter was so much fun to read!
The reason why I gave the book 4 stars was that the pacing towards the end felt a little chaotic and some inner monologues or scenes (casino, even though it was essential to the story) repeated a bit too often with nothing really being resolved. It kinda made it harder for me to pick it up again. I’m also not a big fan of “love triangles” and figured *that* twist pretty early on.
Still, as a debut, it was amazing and I’m very curious and excited for the sequel or anything else Bailey Black might write in the future!
January 4, 2026
“Ascension of the Seven” by Bailey Black is a quality independent debut novel. Her writing is concise yet provides proper emotional tones and detailed moments that the reader can invest in. Willow is a fantastic main character, and those around her easily fit into their own spots in the story’s puzzle while providing their own great personalities and importance. The plot has great romantic and mysterious moments, and I look forward to the next book in the series!
I highlighted a few of my favorite sentences in my copy, but one of my absolute favorites has to be a beautiful reference to the fog of Misty Pines:
"It wafts through the air, draping over the flora and fauna like a mother tucking her child into bed." (CH.13)
Quality of writing: 4/5 stars!
Plot development: 5 stars, keeps you turning the page for more.
Characters: 5 stars, so many intriguing and fun supporting personalities.
Setting: 5 stars, Bailey’s writing makes me feel like we are living in Misty Pines with the rest of the characters. I can visualize it so clearly.
Ease of Reading: 5 stars
Overall Rating: 5 stars!!!
I absolutely recommend this book to anyone looking to invest their time into a new series that supports an independent writer. This book got me out of my reading slump (after years of not reading), and I am so grateful for Bailey’s passion!
I highlighted a few of my favorite sentences in my copy, but one of my absolute favorites has to be a beautiful reference to the fog of Misty Pines:
"It wafts through the air, draping over the flora and fauna like a mother tucking her child into bed." (CH.13)
Quality of writing: 4/5 stars!
Plot development: 5 stars, keeps you turning the page for more.
Characters: 5 stars, so many intriguing and fun supporting personalities.
Setting: 5 stars, Bailey’s writing makes me feel like we are living in Misty Pines with the rest of the characters. I can visualize it so clearly.
Ease of Reading: 5 stars
Overall Rating: 5 stars!!!
I absolutely recommend this book to anyone looking to invest their time into a new series that supports an independent writer. This book got me out of my reading slump (after years of not reading), and I am so grateful for Bailey’s passion!
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