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Ascent #1
The Ascension of Laney
I loved him at fifteen. I thought we’d stand the test of time. He was my forever but maybe I fell too fast or loved him too much. Maybe I came on too strong or maybe I did something wrong. He still left. Turned his back on me without a word. I never thought I’d see him again and to be honest, I didn’t want to. I began to hate him even though he would never know it. But then, I did see him again and with him came the secrets that would forever change all of our lives.
She was only a recurring dream in my foggy unconscious. A voice. A face. We weren’t supposed to dream. We weren’t supposed to remember. They said it was impossible and the before would never come into the now. None of the others remember, at least not that I know of. What I do know is that she was my everything, my every waking breath. Now that I’ve found her I will not be losing her a second time. She will be mine again, no matter what the cost.
She was only a recurring dream in my foggy unconscious. A voice. A face. We weren’t supposed to dream. We weren’t supposed to remember. They said it was impossible and the before would never come into the now. None of the others remember, at least not that I know of. What I do know is that she was my everything, my every waking breath. Now that I’ve found her I will not be losing her a second time. She will be mine again, no matter what the cost.
280 pages, Paperback
First published August 20, 2015
12 people are currently reading
561 people want to read
About the author
Kris Hack
8 books62 followersI love to read, write, and go camping, especially if it's near a beach somewhere. My furbabies and hubby love the water and so do I! We go camping whenever we can and have a blast cuddling by the fire, eating s’mores and listening to the waves crash against the shore.
Reading is a long time passion of mine and I’ve always had trouble ending the books when I close them. Characters and scenarios would flow through my mind, further keeping me from much needed sleep. After a time, my own characters began running through my head, demanding to have their stories told.
I am the author of the Ascent series, my first published novel is The Ascension of Laney, a New Adult Paranormal Romance.
Join my fan group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Hacks...
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Reading is a long time passion of mine and I’ve always had trouble ending the books when I close them. Characters and scenarios would flow through my mind, further keeping me from much needed sleep. After a time, my own characters began running through my head, demanding to have their stories told.
I am the author of the Ascent series, my first published novel is The Ascension of Laney, a New Adult Paranormal Romance.
Join my fan group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Hacks...
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/authorkrishack
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/authorkrishack
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/authorkrishack
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/authorkrish...
Periscope: https://www.periscope.tv/authorkrishack
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 6, 2017
I got this book in exchange for an honest review.
Laney and Kass have loved each other in the past but he disappeared five years ago without leaving any trace. Now that Laney is in University, he is back for a mission regarding his ex girlfriend. Laney is in fact an Ascent, a person who can manipulate elements, while Kass is a low angel.
The idea on which this book is based, that is angels and fallen angels, is not new. The idea of Ascent is on the other hand something I have never heard of and that is interesting. The author doesn't give us much info about Ascent and who they are and what is their role in the world of angels and their enemies, but I believe she does it because this is the first book and it is a sort of 'intro' to the trilogy. I hope we know more in the following parts of this series, because the whole concept looks intriguing enough for me to keep reading the sequels; in this nothing major happens until the last quarter and it could have been more awesome if the story had more suspense moments.
The only thing that probably should have been expanded, are the personalities of the characters. They indeed have some 'character', but I felt as if they weren't defined enough and they were too detached for me to get close to any of them. I think that this is what this book lacks, otherwise, I would have given it five stars. I wonder if the sequels dig more into character's personalities, because that would give this book a whole new plus of coolness, because in my opinion it's a really good one and I could see it become a bestseller!
I would suggest this book to those who love paranormal romance books about angels and fallen angels.
Laney and Kass have loved each other in the past but he disappeared five years ago without leaving any trace. Now that Laney is in University, he is back for a mission regarding his ex girlfriend. Laney is in fact an Ascent, a person who can manipulate elements, while Kass is a low angel.
The idea on which this book is based, that is angels and fallen angels, is not new. The idea of Ascent is on the other hand something I have never heard of and that is interesting. The author doesn't give us much info about Ascent and who they are and what is their role in the world of angels and their enemies, but I believe she does it because this is the first book and it is a sort of 'intro' to the trilogy. I hope we know more in the following parts of this series, because the whole concept looks intriguing enough for me to keep reading the sequels; in this nothing major happens until the last quarter and it could have been more awesome if the story had more suspense moments.
The only thing that probably should have been expanded, are the personalities of the characters. They indeed have some 'character', but I felt as if they weren't defined enough and they were too detached for me to get close to any of them. I think that this is what this book lacks, otherwise, I would have given it five stars. I wonder if the sequels dig more into character's personalities, because that would give this book a whole new plus of coolness, because in my opinion it's a really good one and I could see it become a bestseller!
I would suggest this book to those who love paranormal romance books about angels and fallen angels.
June 17, 2025
Listen, I wanted to love this I really did and so many other people did! But there was just a lot lacking for me and it didn’t draw me in quite like I thought it would.
Off the bat, the first chapter has grammatical errors and some miss spellings, which is fine with independent authors these things can be missed so no big deal. I truly thought Ryan was a they them until she was using she pronouns and I just realized it was a misspelling. The writing was a bit choppy and I feel things did not flow together every well, it was hard to keep track where we were in the chapter and what was happening.
I wish there was more explanation to the lore, like yes I understand this is the first book it’s more of the world building book but there were some things happening that should have been explained more. We find out with the main character but even then we don’t really find out much, just the super bare basics. There is so much more that could have been done with that, I do understand it’s a first book setting for the rest but there should have been a better set up.
This is my own person beef but I’ve said it once and I will continue to say it a thousand times if needed, I hate mid chapter pov switches. I HATE MID CHAPTER POV SWITCHES. Just finish a chapter, don’t jump back and forth it feels like a wattpad fan fiction (said with love I adore wattpad fanfictions). It also makes it difficult to follow along with the story and disrupts the flow of the story.
I wish it was more descriptive and more depth to the characters, I’m supposed to care about these characters but I just don’t. I don’t know anything about them and frankly they feel so two dimensional that does it even matter? Didn’t even notice there was a third roommate and I can’t even remember her name, it wasn’t talked about really. There needed to be more time building the world and establishing these characters, I don’t care about any of them because there was nothing really told about them.
I loved the concept it was so cool and so much more could have been done with it. It fell flat for me and was a disappointing read to me quite honestly.
Off the bat, the first chapter has grammatical errors and some miss spellings, which is fine with independent authors these things can be missed so no big deal. I truly thought Ryan was a they them until she was using she pronouns and I just realized it was a misspelling. The writing was a bit choppy and I feel things did not flow together every well, it was hard to keep track where we were in the chapter and what was happening.
I wish there was more explanation to the lore, like yes I understand this is the first book it’s more of the world building book but there were some things happening that should have been explained more. We find out with the main character but even then we don’t really find out much, just the super bare basics. There is so much more that could have been done with that, I do understand it’s a first book setting for the rest but there should have been a better set up.
This is my own person beef but I’ve said it once and I will continue to say it a thousand times if needed, I hate mid chapter pov switches. I HATE MID CHAPTER POV SWITCHES. Just finish a chapter, don’t jump back and forth it feels like a wattpad fan fiction (said with love I adore wattpad fanfictions). It also makes it difficult to follow along with the story and disrupts the flow of the story.
I wish it was more descriptive and more depth to the characters, I’m supposed to care about these characters but I just don’t. I don’t know anything about them and frankly they feel so two dimensional that does it even matter? Didn’t even notice there was a third roommate and I can’t even remember her name, it wasn’t talked about really. There needed to be more time building the world and establishing these characters, I don’t care about any of them because there was nothing really told about them.
I loved the concept it was so cool and so much more could have been done with it. It fell flat for me and was a disappointing read to me quite honestly.
November 26, 2015
The Pros: Reading the story of Kass and Laney reminds me of an internal love that has surpassed even the largest obstacles. The storyline has its own unique twist than the typical Angel storyline. The character of Laney had realistic moments of anger, hurt, and resentment, it allowed you to see this was a young woman who had endure heartache. All in all, Kass' connection towards Laney is devoted and cherished. I would like to read more about the secondary characters of Ryan and Miguel and look forward to see the story grow. There was suspense and some shock factors and love the elements of magic. Laney Ascension into her new role has killer moments, literally and enjoyed the unique choices of her defending herself. You will have to read it to fully understand the scene, but just know Microwaves will never be the same for me.
The Cons: The story felt as though I was being told but it lacked descriptions to fully immerse yourself into the story. The characters lacked the in-depth details to build into a developed characters. I feel a prequel to give the backstory of the characters will allow the reader to fully understand the hurt and devastation that Laney suffered while it shows just the sacrifice that Kass had to make for the life he now led. Lastly I feel that the Fallen should be given a greater amount of backstory to fully understand their conflict and the upcoming scenes to pass.
Overall I give the story a solid 3.75 stars for the plot itself and the mass amount of potential. The cover is a superb solid 5 stars. The editing was fantastic and well done, 5 stars. I will round up the rating a solid 4 Stars for the whole shabang!!
The Cons: The story felt as though I was being told but it lacked descriptions to fully immerse yourself into the story. The characters lacked the in-depth details to build into a developed characters. I feel a prequel to give the backstory of the characters will allow the reader to fully understand the hurt and devastation that Laney suffered while it shows just the sacrifice that Kass had to make for the life he now led. Lastly I feel that the Fallen should be given a greater amount of backstory to fully understand their conflict and the upcoming scenes to pass.
Overall I give the story a solid 3.75 stars for the plot itself and the mass amount of potential. The cover is a superb solid 5 stars. The editing was fantastic and well done, 5 stars. I will round up the rating a solid 4 Stars for the whole shabang!!
August 23, 2016
Fabulous read! One of my recent favorites with angels and the like. You really get to feel the characters in this story. I love Laney. She has such deep emotion. Kass was her world at 15 and then at 17, he disappeared. She begins to understand that when all hell breaks loose, or at least begins to. She finds out she is an Ascent, but is even more powerful than normal ones. There are reasons for that. Ones that will make you sigh. Kass tries so hard to not show how much he loves her. Miguel is his partner and has been an angel for 100 years. He is finding out some of the things he thought to be true are not. Oh, and most interesting is that apparently angels aren't supposed to remember their 'before' and that causes some interesting conflicts. I will need to get ahold of the Fall of Kass pretty quickly, as the end of this one and the teaser section at the end is killing me! A must read!
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
August 23, 2016
I was gifted this book to review and was excited to get a new adult paranormal romance as most other paranormal romance books tend to be for the young adult audience. From the title you know what your getting as ascension is associated with angels but this book held my interest throughout and was definitely a more mature read than a young adult paranormal romance would be. It started with Laney being fifteen and meeting the new boy next door Kass. They go out for about a year, get serious, then he completely disappears without a trace. Fast forward five years when Laney is at college, not completely over Kass, when he reappears. We find out where he's been and what he's back for - to help Laney Ascend... I will definitely be reading the rest of the series which I'm so relieved about as I have abandoned a few books mid series lately as they haven't been interesting enough.
October 19, 2016
At first it kind of gave me whiplash the way it bounced back and forth between the two character's POV, but once I got into it I couldn't put it down and the volley was barely noticeable. It is the quintessential love story though there is a twist that you don't see coming. The main male lead, Kass, is actually an angel (though he was at one time human) and he is partnered up with another angel to recruit people called the ascended in a war between the Archangels and the Fallen. He is caught off guard by his next assignment, his old girlfriend and the love of his life Laney. The whole time Kass is trying to help Laney ascend he is fighting his feelings for her. If you are looking for a different take on the war between heaven and hell then this series is one I would recommend for you to read.
August 21, 2016
Laney and Kass become inseparable after his family moves into the supposedly haunted house on Laney's block. When Kass and his family mysteriously disappear, Laney is left distraught and brokenhearted. Years later, when Kass returns his story about having amnesia seems a bit far fetched to Laney but when the truth is revealed, Laney's life will be changed forever.
This is an amazing and well written debut novel that had me hooked from the first page. Even though I knew this book is the first in a series, I was not ready for that cliffhanger. I can't wait to see what happens next!
This is an amazing and well written debut novel that had me hooked from the first page. Even though I knew this book is the first in a series, I was not ready for that cliffhanger. I can't wait to see what happens next!
August 21, 2015
If you enjoy adult romance and paranormal this is the book to read. I have read the book from cover to cover. The first day I read 10 chapters straight non-stop. I just couldn't put it down. I am looking forward to the 2nd book of this series to be released. This is a five star recommendation....
February 14, 2017
I really loved this book. Got hooked from the beginning and barely put it down until I was finished. Kris Hack is a great storyteller and this book had everything needed in my list to be great and then some: great plot, likeable characters, romance, action, drama. I could feel the inner turmoil, fight and strength Kass and Laney had. Miguel was also a favorite, even though he's not a main character and the story is not told in his POV, the description is so accurate that you could also feel his happy and fun demeanor, but also you can feel his pain and loss.
Five years after Kass disappeared, Laney can't believe her eyes when she sees him at orientation. She's still heartbroken from his sudden disappearance nnd wants nothing to do with him, making his assignment almost impossible. Kass knows there is something wrong when he starts to remember his past life but he can't risk been taken from thus assignment. First he needs to help Laney ascend, then he has to make up for the last five years, even if he couldn't control what happened.
Five years after Kass disappeared, Laney can't believe her eyes when she sees him at orientation. She's still heartbroken from his sudden disappearance nnd wants nothing to do with him, making his assignment almost impossible. Kass knows there is something wrong when he starts to remember his past life but he can't risk been taken from thus assignment. First he needs to help Laney ascend, then he has to make up for the last five years, even if he couldn't control what happened.
January 23, 2017
Absolutely loved the book! Laney and Kass such a good love story. What would you do if you saw the boy who broke your heart after 5 years and he wants to be friends? Kass disappeared when they were in high school and now he shows up and has to help Laney become an Angel. This story details the beginning of their new relationship and the coming of the apocalypse.
March 12, 2017
Laney is meant to ascend and a her ex cass has arrived to help. The reason he left without a word comes as a shock to Laney. I love Miguel in this book and his drive to have a happy normal life. Great book. Full video review on YouTube channel. Adventure-IN-Print.
October 13, 2017
This was a really good read. A little different from the angel books I’ve read before.
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May 19, 2017
The Ascension of Laney was an enjoyable and entertaining YA paranormal romance. I liked the dual POV and the narration was very good overall. This is the first book in the Ascent Series but could easily be listened to as a standalone. A good start to an interesting series, I would recommend this.
I was voluntarily provided this review copy audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator. This review is my honest opinion.
I was voluntarily provided this review copy audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator. This review is my honest opinion.
March 7, 2017
Holy balls! So I may have taken a term from my younger brothers book of words, but who can blame me. This book was absolutely amazing! I cannot begin to explain how entirely amazing it was to read all about well everything. There is adventure and aingst! It's hard not to be sucked in to this book. I gotta say it took way to long to read because of my work schedule. I wish I could have just sat reading this one like I did with the first book. I am so glad I stopped reading my school books though to give this the time it deserved! I highly highly recommend this book. You won't be sorry for sure!
February 26, 2017
I agree with P-hidalgo's review 100%
The story starts of slowly, and has a slow build. The Fallen should have more of a back story however will read the next story in the series to see if they come into their own.
The Ascension of Laney doesn't for me have the emotional connection to the characters Love and Angels did, however I feel like this is only the beginning and there is a lot more to come.
As with Love and Angels, the cover is amazing, and definitely does the story justice. Overall I'm rating it a solid 4 stars
The story starts of slowly, and has a slow build. The Fallen should have more of a back story however will read the next story in the series to see if they come into their own.
The Ascension of Laney doesn't for me have the emotional connection to the characters Love and Angels did, however I feel like this is only the beginning and there is a lot more to come.
As with Love and Angels, the cover is amazing, and definitely does the story justice. Overall I'm rating it a solid 4 stars
September 29, 2015
*I was gifted this book for an honest review*
The Ascension of Laney has a great hook to reel you in… who doesn't want to know about the haunted house next door. Especially when a new, hot guys moves in and then just disappears one day without a trace. Kris has some pretty great characters. Laney is heartbroken college co-ed who has no idea what happened to her first and only love, Kass. As the story progresses she gets spunky, clever and pretty crafty when put in a bad situation. Laney has a lot of emotions to get though when Kass mysteriously pops back into her life. Kass also has a lot to work out when he realizes Laney is his next charge. Kass is handsome, caring, and tough…don’t mess with his girl, Laney. Miguel is the final main character in the story. He is a hard ass, flirt and feisty, and a total meat-head in a fun loving way! You grow to love and care for each of these characters and the challenges they face and will face in the next story.
I found Laney to be a clever character when put under duress. She doesn't fully understand her powers until she is kidnapped. While kidnapped she remembers she can grow grass, so she saves a peach pit and tried to grow an entire tree to produce fruit. Such cleverness and clearheadedness can get you out of any crazy situation. Although she is bright character, I felt that when Laney was told about what she was, she didn’t react at all how I thought any logical person would have. She just kind of accepted it and so did her bestie, which I found very odd. I would have expected a lot more emotion or at least they would have freaked out. Speaking of the best friend…she and Miguel get together at some point, but you don’t find out much more after that. I feel like something is missing when I think about those two.
The background of the The Ascension of Laney, Hack has an interesting take on how the angles are made and whole hierarchy. There are different levels of beings…Ascent, Angles, The Fallen, and the Archangels. She even touches on what happens when an angel mates and with whom. I found it intriguing she only mentioned God once, and only briefly. Is God in charge of who becomes an angel? Does he tell the Archangels what to do? What is God’s role in the book? These are questions I had but weren't answered…maybe they will be in book 2.
I rate this book four stars.
The Ascension of Laney has a great hook to reel you in… who doesn't want to know about the haunted house next door. Especially when a new, hot guys moves in and then just disappears one day without a trace. Kris has some pretty great characters. Laney is heartbroken college co-ed who has no idea what happened to her first and only love, Kass. As the story progresses she gets spunky, clever and pretty crafty when put in a bad situation. Laney has a lot of emotions to get though when Kass mysteriously pops back into her life. Kass also has a lot to work out when he realizes Laney is his next charge. Kass is handsome, caring, and tough…don’t mess with his girl, Laney. Miguel is the final main character in the story. He is a hard ass, flirt and feisty, and a total meat-head in a fun loving way! You grow to love and care for each of these characters and the challenges they face and will face in the next story.
I found Laney to be a clever character when put under duress. She doesn't fully understand her powers until she is kidnapped. While kidnapped she remembers she can grow grass, so she saves a peach pit and tried to grow an entire tree to produce fruit. Such cleverness and clearheadedness can get you out of any crazy situation. Although she is bright character, I felt that when Laney was told about what she was, she didn’t react at all how I thought any logical person would have. She just kind of accepted it and so did her bestie, which I found very odd. I would have expected a lot more emotion or at least they would have freaked out. Speaking of the best friend…she and Miguel get together at some point, but you don’t find out much more after that. I feel like something is missing when I think about those two.
The background of the The Ascension of Laney, Hack has an interesting take on how the angles are made and whole hierarchy. There are different levels of beings…Ascent, Angles, The Fallen, and the Archangels. She even touches on what happens when an angel mates and with whom. I found it intriguing she only mentioned God once, and only briefly. Is God in charge of who becomes an angel? Does he tell the Archangels what to do? What is God’s role in the book? These are questions I had but weren't answered…maybe they will be in book 2.
I rate this book four stars.
January 24, 2016
**MILD SPOILERS. NO, REALLY SOME SPOILERS AHEAD**
Did not expect the adult romance and explicit sex in this. It may or may not make me dislike the book. I was absolutely intrigued to read this since reading the synopsis, it promised me everything that I could want in a book: a love that stands the test of fate where the lovers find each other again after separated, and ANGELS. Amen to that combination (how did I guess angels were involved from the synopsis alone? The cover, duh. Plus, the title gives it away.) So I was so darn happy when I got my hands on my copy from Amazon and immediately dived in. My thoughts after reading? The writing could've been better, some parts flowed and others didn't. I also felt like we didn't get enough of Laney and Kass. I wanted to know their thoughts, their motivations and reasons behind their actions. Yes, Hack did provide some commentary like a few sentences here and there stating what Laney was feeling about Kass' return or Kass expressing his depth of feeling for Laney BUT THOSE FEW SENTENCES WEREN'T ENOUGH. It wasn't as descriptive as I've liked. I wanted more descriptions of the college setting, Ryan's reaction to the poor random girl's death at the football game (I mean Ryan was there, was she not?!), more info on how her romance with Miguel started (we were just thrown that little tidbit, there was NOTHING on how it came to be and such), more explanations about how the situation worked with the whole angels and Ascents situation. I wanted more details to immerse myself in the story but instead am presented with vague descriptions and more details on how Kass is always so hard within 25 feet of Laney. Which brings me to a point: ALL. THE. DESCRIPTIONS. OF. KASS'. HARD-ONS. WERE. UNNECESSARY. Completely. I think I would've enjoyed the book more if the author had less. It makes me view Kass' and Laney's love as purely sexual. It was really annoying that Kass can't go for a second without getting a hard on and Laney gives me whiplash by the way she acts.
I wanted to like this book, but it wasn't what I expected. Shame.
Did not expect the adult romance and explicit sex in this. It may or may not make me dislike the book. I was absolutely intrigued to read this since reading the synopsis, it promised me everything that I could want in a book: a love that stands the test of fate where the lovers find each other again after separated, and ANGELS. Amen to that combination (how did I guess angels were involved from the synopsis alone? The cover, duh. Plus, the title gives it away.) So I was so darn happy when I got my hands on my copy from Amazon and immediately dived in. My thoughts after reading? The writing could've been better, some parts flowed and others didn't. I also felt like we didn't get enough of Laney and Kass. I wanted to know their thoughts, their motivations and reasons behind their actions. Yes, Hack did provide some commentary like a few sentences here and there stating what Laney was feeling about Kass' return or Kass expressing his depth of feeling for Laney BUT THOSE FEW SENTENCES WEREN'T ENOUGH. It wasn't as descriptive as I've liked. I wanted more descriptions of the college setting, Ryan's reaction to the poor random girl's death at the football game (I mean Ryan was there, was she not?!), more info on how her romance with Miguel started (we were just thrown that little tidbit, there was NOTHING on how it came to be and such), more explanations about how the situation worked with the whole angels and Ascents situation. I wanted more details to immerse myself in the story but instead am presented with vague descriptions and more details on how Kass is always so hard within 25 feet of Laney. Which brings me to a point: ALL. THE. DESCRIPTIONS. OF. KASS'. HARD-ONS. WERE. UNNECESSARY. Completely. I think I would've enjoyed the book more if the author had less. It makes me view Kass' and Laney's love as purely sexual. It was really annoying that Kass can't go for a second without getting a hard on and Laney gives me whiplash by the way she acts.
I wanted to like this book, but it wasn't what I expected. Shame.
December 23, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ebook was provided by Redhead Book Services in exchange for an honest review.
The Ascension of Laney is the first novel in the paranormal romance series from author Kris Hack entitled Ascent. This was such a pleasant surprise of a book, with a creatively original twist on the usual angel falling for a human (and vice-versa) story line, bringing with a more layered complexity than you would expect and something I very much welcomed. Main characters Laney Lawson and Kass Springer were young and in love and just shared an unforgettable experience on the night that Kass disappeared without a word. Five years is a long time and I was actually glad that Laney reacted the way she did when she saw Kass again and that she held back on acting on any lingering feelings she may have had for him. There's a definite connection between the two, one that's necessary for a couple that you want to root for in a book.
This paranormal romance served up a number of surprises, something that is difficult to do in the burgeoning young adult market. The story was pretty well-paced, allowing both Laney and Kass to feel each other out and get used to one another's presence while Kass tries to figure out how to fulfill his mission and get Laney to where she needs to go. I liked both Laney and Kass, but it was Miguel, Kass's best friend who was a bit of a manwhore, that stole the limelight time and again and was the story's comic relief. We don't get all the answers to the questions that are raised as we read the book, and it does end in a cliffhanger, but since both books are readily available for purchase on Amazon, readers won't have much to truly complain about. The Ascension of Laney was a really good series starter and I'm giving it 4.5 stars, rounded off to five stars for Goodreads. ♥
Note: This ebook was provided by Redhead Book Services in exchange for an honest review.
The Ascension of Laney is the first novel in the paranormal romance series from author Kris Hack entitled Ascent. This was such a pleasant surprise of a book, with a creatively original twist on the usual angel falling for a human (and vice-versa) story line, bringing with a more layered complexity than you would expect and something I very much welcomed. Main characters Laney Lawson and Kass Springer were young and in love and just shared an unforgettable experience on the night that Kass disappeared without a word. Five years is a long time and I was actually glad that Laney reacted the way she did when she saw Kass again and that she held back on acting on any lingering feelings she may have had for him. There's a definite connection between the two, one that's necessary for a couple that you want to root for in a book.
This paranormal romance served up a number of surprises, something that is difficult to do in the burgeoning young adult market. The story was pretty well-paced, allowing both Laney and Kass to feel each other out and get used to one another's presence while Kass tries to figure out how to fulfill his mission and get Laney to where she needs to go. I liked both Laney and Kass, but it was Miguel, Kass's best friend who was a bit of a manwhore, that stole the limelight time and again and was the story's comic relief. We don't get all the answers to the questions that are raised as we read the book, and it does end in a cliffhanger, but since both books are readily available for purchase on Amazon, readers won't have much to truly complain about. The Ascension of Laney was a really good series starter and I'm giving it 4.5 stars, rounded off to five stars for Goodreads. ♥
December 22, 2015
Review
5 Wings
Once again I started reading a book that I had no idea what it was about. I guess if I looked at the cover, which is beautiful I might add, I would have had a hint that this was a paranormal romance. When things started to click, I was all in. This book is the first of a series, and you will want to continue the journey Laney and Kass.
Meeting as teenages they fell in love. After their first and only night of passion, when Laney gave herself to Kass. Everything changed. Kass and his family, with all of their belongings disappeared off the face of the earth. Laney finds herself lost and confused always wondering what happened to the only guy she truly gave her heart to.
A few years later, while giving a campus tour to new student at the college Laney is attending, Kass appears in her tour group. How, why, after so many years, does he show up looking better than ever?
Kass isn’t your typical college student however. Kass and his friend Miguel are angels. They are sent to Laney to help her to become an Ascent. A person with supernatural powers which will only be awakened after Laney takes the life of another, by accident or intentionally.
This book blurs the lines of good versus evil. Are the angels good? Will the devil and the fallen angels save humanity? Book 1 leaves us with so many unanswered question you will need to complete this series to see the fate of life on earth.
If you enjoyed Tim LaHaye’, Jerry B. Jenkins’, Left Behind series, or Pippa DeCosta’s Beyond The Veil series, you will love this series.
ARC provided by the author and Redhead Book Services in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
5 Wings
Once again I started reading a book that I had no idea what it was about. I guess if I looked at the cover, which is beautiful I might add, I would have had a hint that this was a paranormal romance. When things started to click, I was all in. This book is the first of a series, and you will want to continue the journey Laney and Kass.
Meeting as teenages they fell in love. After their first and only night of passion, when Laney gave herself to Kass. Everything changed. Kass and his family, with all of their belongings disappeared off the face of the earth. Laney finds herself lost and confused always wondering what happened to the only guy she truly gave her heart to.
A few years later, while giving a campus tour to new student at the college Laney is attending, Kass appears in her tour group. How, why, after so many years, does he show up looking better than ever?
Kass isn’t your typical college student however. Kass and his friend Miguel are angels. They are sent to Laney to help her to become an Ascent. A person with supernatural powers which will only be awakened after Laney takes the life of another, by accident or intentionally.
This book blurs the lines of good versus evil. Are the angels good? Will the devil and the fallen angels save humanity? Book 1 leaves us with so many unanswered question you will need to complete this series to see the fate of life on earth.
If you enjoyed Tim LaHaye’, Jerry B. Jenkins’, Left Behind series, or Pippa DeCosta’s Beyond The Veil series, you will love this series.
ARC provided by the author and Redhead Book Services in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
February 16, 2017
A great beginning. I have the audible version.
What does Aundrea Mitchell and Gary Furlong bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?
The two narrators give more definition to the story. They have wonderful voices that kept me riveted.
Any additional comments?
I'm one of those people that tends to want the whole story, rather than getting it piecemeal. That's what makes this a 4 star for me. I anxiously awaiting the next part, gosh I hate waiting.
What does Aundrea Mitchell and Gary Furlong bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?
The two narrators give more definition to the story. They have wonderful voices that kept me riveted.
Any additional comments?
I'm one of those people that tends to want the whole story, rather than getting it piecemeal. That's what makes this a 4 star for me. I anxiously awaiting the next part, gosh I hate waiting.
August 31, 2016
Genre: New Adult Paranormal Romance - 3 stars (I liked it) -
The Ascent Series features Angels and Ascents; Ascents are earth element manipulators, similar to witches. As can be expected, there is unrest between the Angels and the fallen, apparently the Ascents are the weapon of choice. *dun-dun-duuun*
The main characters, Laney and Kass are sweetheart characters, genuine and perfectly likable. I actually think the secondary characters, Ryan and Miguel, are more interesting, unfortunately, they are increasingly neglected.
Overall, I found The Ascension of Laney to be fairly shallow but an enjoyable, quick read. It reads like a novella, entertaining though not what I would consider comprehensive or detailed, especially in the second half.
Steam factor... Well this book definitely does not need to be resting innocently in the young adult section. There are two or three explicit sex scenes and our boy, Kass, quite frequently has a documented physical reaction to Laney so best reserve this read for mature audiences.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Ascent Series features Angels and Ascents; Ascents are earth element manipulators, similar to witches. As can be expected, there is unrest between the Angels and the fallen, apparently the Ascents are the weapon of choice. *dun-dun-duuun*
The main characters, Laney and Kass are sweetheart characters, genuine and perfectly likable. I actually think the secondary characters, Ryan and Miguel, are more interesting, unfortunately, they are increasingly neglected.
Overall, I found The Ascension of Laney to be fairly shallow but an enjoyable, quick read. It reads like a novella, entertaining though not what I would consider comprehensive or detailed, especially in the second half.
Steam factor... Well this book definitely does not need to be resting innocently in the young adult section. There are two or three explicit sex scenes and our boy, Kass, quite frequently has a documented physical reaction to Laney so best reserve this read for mature audiences.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Read
May 3, 2016**** 4 Stars from me.
Firstly, let me say I really enjoyed this book. It's one of the better ones I've read recently. I'm a little late coming into this series as I know Kris has recently released the third book and she's well on her way to writing the fourth. Happily I have the second and third books and you can be sure I'll be moving onto them A.S.A.P.
To be honest it wasn't super exciting or dramatic but in my opinion Kris Hack has done all the right things, ticked all the right boxes for a first book. It was more an easy slow burn of building up to the next book. A great introduction to the four main characters, Laney, Kass, Miguel and Ryan, who I just know you will grow to love. It was an easy read and it kept me interested and invested the whole way. I loved the supernatural concept and am looking forward to being fully immersed into their changed lives in the next book, The fall of Kass. Not giving any spoilers away. Just go read it!
Firstly, let me say I really enjoyed this book. It's one of the better ones I've read recently. I'm a little late coming into this series as I know Kris has recently released the third book and she's well on her way to writing the fourth. Happily I have the second and third books and you can be sure I'll be moving onto them A.S.A.P.
To be honest it wasn't super exciting or dramatic but in my opinion Kris Hack has done all the right things, ticked all the right boxes for a first book. It was more an easy slow burn of building up to the next book. A great introduction to the four main characters, Laney, Kass, Miguel and Ryan, who I just know you will grow to love. It was an easy read and it kept me interested and invested the whole way. I loved the supernatural concept and am looking forward to being fully immersed into their changed lives in the next book, The fall of Kass. Not giving any spoilers away. Just go read it!
February 9, 2017
Interesting read as Laney's journey continues. There is mystery and suspense, confusion, secrets and a love that never died. Laney's world is about to be blown apart, will she be able to survive? Enjoyed this book and looking forward to more.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, all opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, all opinions expressed are my own.
April 16, 2017
Interesting take on angels, fallen and their progeny
The cover drew me into this book, Laney is at college and when the guy who took her virginity then disappeared without a trace is all of a sudden at the same college and getting in her face.
Lass has loved Laney from the start, but he can't tell her why he left, not yet anyway.
Laney is special, she's an Assent ( to me this was another name for a nephelm) the child of an Angel and another Assent. So she's more powerful than the usual version.
I'm not going to say much more, but what I will say is that the author has created a world where to me, the Archangels are just as heartless as the Fallen. Laney finds out why Kass disappeared, and they eventually get to be together, but whether that lasts I guess I will have to read book 2.
The books well written, it's a bit slow in places, but I reckon Laney will be a force to reckon with, by either Angel or Fallen.
If you like Angel stories, I think you'll like this one.
The cover drew me into this book, Laney is at college and when the guy who took her virginity then disappeared without a trace is all of a sudden at the same college and getting in her face.
Lass has loved Laney from the start, but he can't tell her why he left, not yet anyway.
Laney is special, she's an Assent ( to me this was another name for a nephelm) the child of an Angel and another Assent. So she's more powerful than the usual version.
I'm not going to say much more, but what I will say is that the author has created a world where to me, the Archangels are just as heartless as the Fallen. Laney finds out why Kass disappeared, and they eventually get to be together, but whether that lasts I guess I will have to read book 2.
The books well written, it's a bit slow in places, but I reckon Laney will be a force to reckon with, by either Angel or Fallen.
If you like Angel stories, I think you'll like this one.
October 27, 2015
This was a great read! It sounded good from the description and I was excited to get time to read it.
I adore Laney! She's so innocent and has a good soul. Even holding on to the massive grudge and hurt, she was still a smart and moral girl. She's kick ass and I love that about her!
Then there is Kass! I couldn't help but feel for him. What a great guy! I understood his pain and the unfortunate position he was in.
I even loved the secondary characters. Ryan was a good friend. Miguel was also a good friend. He was tired though. The way these characters unfolded in the story makes me want to find out more about them!
Overall, I loved this book! It's worth five glittery stars for being a great new adult paranormal romance read!
I adore Laney! She's so innocent and has a good soul. Even holding on to the massive grudge and hurt, she was still a smart and moral girl. She's kick ass and I love that about her!
Then there is Kass! I couldn't help but feel for him. What a great guy! I understood his pain and the unfortunate position he was in.
I even loved the secondary characters. Ryan was a good friend. Miguel was also a good friend. He was tired though. The way these characters unfolded in the story makes me want to find out more about them!
Overall, I loved this book! It's worth five glittery stars for being a great new adult paranormal romance read!
May 22, 2016
Laney is going to College and getting her life back together after losing her first love 5 yrs. ago. Everything is going great for Laney until Kass shows up for College orientation. Her world will never be the same. Kass is an Angel assigned to help Laney with her ascension. The Arch Angels wiped his memory when he became an Angel but he has had some memories come back which is unheard of with Angels. He struggles to do his job while piecing together his past and finding out why he knows Laney.I absolutely loved this book!! A great read full of love and hate, excitement and danger. I can't wait for the next book
December 5, 2016
I had to give this book a 3 because it was a good story but I never really felt like I connected with it. I love angels, new adult, romance, and 2nd chances but this book was kind of hard to wrap my head around and am done and left with many more questions like where are his parents and why was he chosen. Maybe those answers will be revealed in the next book. I don't have a lot to say either way regarding this book, but I look forward to book 2.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 9, 2019
I honestly had high expectations for this book when I read the teaser posted. I got everything I hoped to read from this book! I started reading shortly after getting the book but wanted to take it slow. I opened the book the other night and couldn't put it down and while at work wanted to read to the finish! I'm so excited to see what's next for Laney and Kass!! Great book and ready for the next one!!!
December 5, 2015
I love when you break into a new book and within the first few pages the characters pull an emotional response from you. Kris Hack did a wonderful job making Laney’s devastation and heartache, do just that! Krass was beautifully written, as the struggling infatuated long lost love, torn between, Loving Laney to her full potential and loving Laney selfishly. I can’t wait to read the next book. I desperately need to know what happens next. Great job Kris!
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