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General Lance Reynolds needs Molly’s team for a clandestine operation. The only problem? It kicks off in one week, and the Syndicate needs cleaning up once and for all. 

So what is a girl to do?

Go on the offensive, of course.

But with the ultimate take down planned for the bad guys of Planet Estaria, you know it’s going to be EPIC.

But at what cost?


--- PLEASE NOTE ---

Inside this book is cursing, amusing cursing, but cursing nonetheless. If bad language offends you, perhaps this book is not for you.​


Set on the foundation laid by the Kurtherian Gambit Series, Awakening tells an entirely new story in the Age of Expansion--when the Etheric Empire is fast becoming the Etheric Federation with all of the trials and tribulations that come with bringing together different peoples, systems, and ideals.


268 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 5, 2017

362 people are currently reading
149 people want to read

About the author

Ell Leigh Clarke

70 books126 followers
Relapsing theoretical physicist, professional geek, sci fi novelist, and Doctor Who fan.

Though she is originally from England, she is mostly what her friends call a “digital nomad”, hanging in whichever country calls to her… as long as it has good wifi, and coffee.

@ellleighclarke

Official Ell Leigh Clarke Fan Club for book discussions and shenanigans: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ellle... Join Us <3

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Community Reviews

5 stars
716 (64%)
4 stars
278 (25%)
3 stars
94 (8%)
2 stars
12 (1%)
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2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
Profile Image for Gizzy.
35 reviews
July 7, 2017
How do these just keep getting better and better?

I loved this the way Pooh loves honey! Ellie's writing just keeps getting better, and the story itself gets more engaging (and intense) with each new book. I am hoping (like probably all the other Molly fans) that this is leading to an eventual meeting between Molly and our favorite etheric-hopping, AI and Kurtherian-toting BA vampire!

There were plenty of feels in this book, more than in the previous three. But they're not the least bit gratuitous... if anything, I think they were an extremely necessary evolution of Molly's (and her team's) development. We were also introduced to a new team member who seemed to slide seamlessly into place... I'm definitely wanting more of her back story though!

One last little comment, potentially a spoiler - did anyone else notice the huge uptick in *ahem* the Bethany Anne kind of creativity in the last page or two? Wonder what THAT is all about! 0.0

Oh, and just because Yoda asked so nicely... HEY ELLIE! WHERE'S BOOK 5?
Profile Image for Justin Cox.
208 reviews4 followers
July 7, 2017
Great addition to the series.

Another awesome addition to the Kurtherian Universe. Really looking forward to book 5. Unfortunately now I'm almost out of books in this series until another release date. Truly an entertaining and well written universe. Initially I was a bit unsure of Molly as a character, now I look forward to this series almost as much as another Bethany Anne book. Can't wait for more.
Profile Image for Jamie-sneek.
4 reviews
July 8, 2017
MUST READ!!!

Ell you did a fantastic job once again on this series. This book is amazing and of course you leave your readers wanting more. Now that it's been over 24 hours I feel safe in asking "where is the next one?? I nnneeeddsss it!!" But on behalf of your fans: we appreciate all the blood sweat and tears (all while going through a cleansing diet with no coffee ) you put into this series. Keep rocking hun!
Profile Image for Alastar.
510 reviews
July 7, 2017
Loving it

Most definitely loving Molly's books, each book is like a two for 1 deal. The author notes are a story unto themselves. However this book has to be the best yet, it is quite the rollercoaster ride of emotions. Shot to make you laugh out loud and a few that have you wiping away tears. Can't wait for book 5 and the author notes that will follow. 😎
Profile Image for Scott.
1,496 reviews12 followers
January 20, 2019
Molly Maxed

My favourite so far as Molly steps up to the plate and a few hidden extras come out to play as the teams battle it out with the syndicate. Great work and quite a bit more hunour and team binding in this one.
Profile Image for Katy.
1,533 reviews10 followers
April 24, 2022
I have to admit that this one got to me at the most deepest emotional level possible.

It took me a while to think about whether I should mention how this was, for this review but, in the end, I decided I needed to tell things as they are. How the book REALLY affected me, and so here it is:

I won't give away the plot, but there was a death scene that took me back to four years ago, as I fought to save my husband's life, and failed.

Reading the scene, here in Sanctioned, brought it all back to me. Not that this memory is ever far away from me anyway, but I hadn't realised just how deeply it was engrained on my psyche, nor how it could still affect me, so totally, until I started reading the relevant scene, and realised just how true to life - and death - it had actually been written.

It made me sob my heart out once again - strangely, both for the loss of this particular character, as well as for my own loss - which wasn't great for me, but it also made me realise just how much I still need to let go of it, before I can really look ahead.

After I had calmed down, blown my nose, and washed my face and hands, I was able to think about that scene more calmly, and I realised just how well written it actually was, especially in how the character who was trying to save the other, reacted, moved, and emoted!

In fact, it made me realise just how good ALL of the books, set within the Kurtherian Universe, that I've been reading over this last month or two, really are.

For one, the characters feel so real to life that it's very hard not to think of them as real people .

For two the authors, who brought them into being, have made sure that they go through all of the highs and lows that we all do in life, to the point that we all feel things that we, too, have experienced, and so we build up a relationship with the characters in that way.

For three, they react, both as individuals, and as a team, in the same way that we all do, no matter what the scene actually is.

To have written these books so well, and so accurately to real life - albeit with some science fiction added in to the mix - and to such a level that it can affect me both physically, and emotionally, means that these books truly are worth the time, the money, and the effort it takes, to read through them all.

Admittedly, in this story, there were a lot of fictional sciences that changed the medical realities to a much more agreeable result.

Unfortunately, in real life, though, those same scientific realities can't be changed, even with all of our modern medical studies. It made me so wish that our realities were, if not the same, then at least possible!

I think that'll happen some day, and I hope it'll bring a better result for some other person needing a miracle!

But, as I think over how this book has affected me, it hasn't made me want to stop reading more, so I've checked up with my reading list, and it looks like I'm going back over to the Vigilante Chronicles, to book four in the series: Paladin.

I just hope that, after the roller-coaster ride that this book just put me through, that this next one is more giggles and fun - I really could use them right now!
79 reviews1 follower
May 7, 2025
A sharp, thoughtful, and thrilling sequel that doesn’t just punch its villains — it bankrupts them.

Sanctioned dives deep into the nature of decision-making, free will, and artificial intelligence, exploring what truly defines a mind — be it biological or digital. I loved how the book questioned what it means to make a choice, whether it comes from the gray matter of a human brain or the algorithms running through silicon circuits. Clarke doesn’t just flirt with the philosophical — she challenges it with action, intellect, and a sly sense of strategy.

One of the most satisfying aspects? The antagonists aren't just brought down physically — they're dismantled economically, stripped of their influence and control through a brutal and brilliant market play. That twist made me cheer. It’s rare to see capitalism used as the final boss-fight mechanic.

The story takes some unexpected turns that I won’t spoil, but trust me — they add layers of intrigue and momentum to an already solid plot. It's a strong continuation of the series and has me very eager for the next installment.

If you’re into sci-fi with brains, edge, and a good sense of justice (and financial karma), Sanctioned won’t disappoint.
Profile Image for Frank Bertino.
1,771 reviews21 followers
July 9, 2017
Now On To The Etheric Empire Mission

This series just keeps getting better and better. The more books that I read in this series, the more I am hooked. The cast of characters is expanding. They couldn't find a boy named Sue so they recruited a kick ass girl named Jack. I suspect we will hear more about her in future books. I enjoy the smartass dialogue, creative cussing, humor, and very real feeling emotion. The chemistry of the characters grows as they experience victory and despair of loss. Will Molly stay her natural brunette or will she think of a way to sandbag the nanites into returning her hair to blond. Will Molly develop more Bethany Anne type of powers? I await the next book with debilitating anxiety.
342 reviews
May 20, 2023
Enjoyable!

I had hit send before my last review was finished. Hey! Couldn't find a way to finish\edit my sentence after sending. Fix it, please. I caught one grammar error (to instead of too). I had read MA's notes and his mention of the overworked editing staff, but sometimes autocorrect just takes over. Another item popped up in author comments of having Molly hook up with one of our super soldiers. The timeline is not clear here, and boss ladies have to be careful. Her military experience and her super intelligence would have had her on a tight leash. Not sure how soon bumping uglies is a good idea. Writing a review maybe 5 years after publication is also not productive. Molly will find romance, or fit it in, when she needs to! Had fun reading!
36 reviews
March 5, 2019
Excellent series that is an offshoot of the Kurtherian Gambit series and universe. This series is a really fast read and if you liked the Michael Anderle series, then this series will help you to get your fix.

The characters develop well over the course of the series and they stay consistent with the overall theme set by Michael Anderle in the Gambit series. This series stands alone well and you don't have to have read the original series to enjoy these books.

I was glad I actually started reading them once the series was complete, it enabled me to get through the entire series in about a month. While I did miss some sleep, I don't regret it.
Profile Image for Samantha Fraley.
35 reviews2 followers
July 20, 2017
Boom

This book brings the fun. Ms. Clarke paints a very insightful picture of a woman learning about family and social interaction and what it really takes to be a leader. Ok enough with the upper crust book reviewer vocabulary. I love Molly, jole and the whole team they rock my socks shoes and pants the hell off. I can not wait to see BA answer but I feel like I'm chatting with forever defend being fresh in my mind and see where the EE is going. I love ever minute I spend in the universe. Thank you for these books Ms. Clarke
Profile Image for Kris.
48 reviews
Read
August 16, 2025
Excellent book

This book was excellent, as is usual for books within this universe.

To Yoda: I know where Book 05 is, so I don't need to ask for it. Regardless, I have something else that I need to read before I can get to it.

This was not eligible for a bonus star for having chapter titles.

As is my standard when reviewing fiction, I note without affecting my review in any way if the average chapter length was within my preferred range of taking me about 10-15 minutes to read. This one is not within that range, as the average length is over 20 minutes.
70 reviews1 follower
July 17, 2017
I felt book four had some of the strongest points and also some of the weakest. It was a mix for me. Some characters went down too easy, and some details were not fleshed out enough. Balancing that: the introduction of new characters, delving deeper into existing characters and expanding into the broader world view and history of the overall universe established by Michael Anderle.

Overall 3.5 stars
Profile Image for Gaileen Crowell.
172 reviews
September 25, 2017
Better yet!!!

Each time Molly grows and so do I. She's great. El is growing too, which means that Yoda is going to have to step up his game! Lol! Really, the myth is getting more interesting with each boo and the characters are evolving so well. I look forward to more from the Kutherian Gambit. I am totally lost in this and just keep gobbling up more as it comes. We are fortunate to have a group of authors who go the extra mile to keep us in the loop. Thanks!!
Profile Image for Paul or Bonnie Gallaway.
28 reviews
February 22, 2018
Life after death

I enjoyed this story very much! I do hope they retrieved their ship from the surface, hate to see alien tech fall into the wrong hands! I first read about pod docs in Sharon Lee and Steve Miller's Tree and Dragon series.
They are my favorite authors, you are getting there tho. I hope you got permission to use that, if it was needed. By the way you are totally out of Ma 's league!! Keep on truckin! Paul.

13 reviews
August 5, 2020
ITS ALL YOUR FAULT

i was so excited when this series came up on my Kindle this weekend! And its your fault i didn't do any accounting this weekend. And its your fault I lost my Mistplay streek. And that my dishes aren't done!

I mean after all I really have no defense against this funny and charming Geek Girl. Just none at all

Thank you so much for the great fun! You tell a good yarn and it is a great relief to just have the story...

Now on to book 5.
350 reviews2 followers
July 7, 2017
And the fun continues.....

Fun reading with a little surprise twist by the author makes this a great book! Though I didn't not know if I read the book to enjoy the interesting characters or the authors comments at the end lol.
Oh bet you thought I forgot.......NEED BOOK 5 ASAP!!!!! See I read your notes MA.
165 reviews
July 8, 2017
Yeah Molly!!

Another great installment in TKGU! I am absolutely intrigued by the events in this book. So many thread so little time. Although I am a little irked about the whole Molly thing but I'm glad it worked out in the end. Can't wait for the next book. Happy writing and thank you for sharing your stories with us.
115 reviews1 follower
July 8, 2017
Atmospheric!

First off, I have to admit, that the first of the book had me worried, there were a lot more details than action, but then it took off in standard Molly fashion, and everything came together, setting the series for the next level, excellent as always! ( what?? Ok) I'm supposed to ask you, Where is book 5? :)
15 reviews
July 12, 2017
Age of Expansion is turning into one of my favorite Kutherian Gambit series.

I can't seem to get enough of Molly, Oz and the team. Great characters and adventures. The relationships just seem to build naturally and the adventures are not very predictable. Just keep writing... just keep writing... just keep writing... where is book five?
Profile Image for Tony Hisgett.
3,034 reviews36 followers
August 7, 2017
This is fun SciFi, it is well paced and very easy to read. Athough I’m still not sure I like the way it ties into the Kurtherian Gamibit series.

My only other very minor criticisms are I found parts of this book over sentimental and I’m getting a bit fed up with the testosterone battle between Sean and Joel.
Profile Image for Veronica.
1,015 reviews5 followers
May 7, 2018
... we always take care of our own

Another excellent novel in this series. The intertwining of the original Kurtherian Universe characters with the Ascension characters is well done. The story is moving well, and I can't wait to se what happens next. The author notes have also notched up a level, and are hilarious! You have to read them as well.
33 reviews
August 29, 2018
Could not put it down!

Just like Michael's first series, I cannot stop reading Ell Liegh Clarke's series of expansion series. I have read other spin offs, but this is the best. You laugh, and in this one you will cry. I'm going through these about one every 24 hours, which is hard to do when you have a full time job! Excellent writing!
65 reviews5 followers
October 21, 2018
5 Stars Again! (umm... About that...)

5 stars is what these collaborators require, every time.
Unfortunately...
I've been so excited scarfing down this series I completely failed to rate the last three books.

They're that good.

Oh, and Yoda wants to know when the next book is out...?
Profile Image for Levia.
1,382 reviews16 followers
December 5, 2020
I love these series

We all know the Book is great. Now after reading the Author notes I'm confused with the comment that you can't see lots of trees in the US. I grew up on six acres of nothing but trees, and now living in KY lots of trees. So I can only postulate that the authors are visiting loud cities 😂.
Spoiler ish: we now have another mini BA and I love it!
Profile Image for Debra Stubbins.
335 reviews
March 30, 2022
unexpected twist….

WOWSERS! So totally did not see that coming and what a choice for Oz to make, but how utterly brilliant to include in this book! Absolutely living the twists in the story and can’t wait to see how things develop for certain characters now! Bring on book 5, quick!
47 reviews1 follower
June 7, 2018
Love this series!

Of all the different spin offs to the Kurtherian Gambit series, this one is definitely my favorite. Molly and her group are awesome. The story line is intriguing and I can't wait for the next book to be released.
Profile Image for Lois Alston.
1,864 reviews3 followers
July 9, 2017
Wonderful

I truly enjoyed this story. Glad Molly and crew are getting justice done. Did not expect the death of Molly. Will the rest of the crew get enhancements? What will happen with Molly?
36 reviews1 follower
July 9, 2017
Another great book in the series

I have to say that the author notes have been pushed it over the top for me . The story progresses well and I can't wait for the next book ., Much thanks to the author and her Yoda
Profile Image for Dale.
19 reviews
July 10, 2017
Waiting patiently for Book 5 ..

Another non stop read - I did not put it down ! Frankly, I am a bit Amazed that the Authors Notes are done on July 5, and I finished the book on July 9. Ok, so, the Story is Fast paced and Active .. A Joy to read .
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews

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