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The same military base where Oz was created witnesses the birth of another AI.
The only problem?
The military is the one who sets the ground rules.
So, what is a new daddy AI supposed to do?
Meanwhile, others are attacking the college, and Giles has to get his game on to protect his students - Space Archaeologist style.
And Molly is faced with the biggest and most dangerous meeting of her whole adult life.
She is going to meet her parents.
What could possibly go wrong?
--- 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, The Ascension Myth 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.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 7, 2018
280 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
Ell Leigh Clarke
71 books126 followersRelapsing 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
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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
April 26, 2018
Ok starting to drag and get a little predictable
May 19, 2022
I really enjoyed reading this. It's really got me thinking now, about where Molly is going to, with this ascension thing!
It's no wonder why her friends and crew mates are starting to question her powers, and, also, if a new power has started to appear.
This story didn't have the usual racing around like crazy, trying to rescue someone / kill someone, vibe, even though they did rescue Bourne, but I enjoyed it just as much, for it's more detailed look at the responsibilities of Molly and her people - especially in how they can guide Bourne, with him being such a newly formed AI!
And what's this, with Molly's parents, then?
It's going to be fascinating to see how they are going to square things with Molly and, also, how Bourne is going to develop, given that he had such a different start in life to Oz - and it tickled me to have them named for Ozzy Osborne, too! Lol
This series has so many things to keep me interested, and I'm loving that it's still not obvious to me, where its all headed - I really hate obvious plot lines. And this definitely isn't! Lol
Anyhoo, now I've finished this, it's back over to the Superdreadnought series for me, and on to book four.
This is yet another series I'm enjoying, so it's no problem for me to have to switch back and forth - in fact, it makes life that little bit more fun 👍
It's no wonder why her friends and crew mates are starting to question her powers, and, also, if a new power has started to appear.
This story didn't have the usual racing around like crazy, trying to rescue someone / kill someone, vibe, even though they did rescue Bourne, but I enjoyed it just as much, for it's more detailed look at the responsibilities of Molly and her people - especially in how they can guide Bourne, with him being such a newly formed AI!
And what's this, with Molly's parents, then?
It's going to be fascinating to see how they are going to square things with Molly and, also, how Bourne is going to develop, given that he had such a different start in life to Oz - and it tickled me to have them named for Ozzy Osborne, too! Lol
This series has so many things to keep me interested, and I'm loving that it's still not obvious to me, where its all headed - I really hate obvious plot lines. And this definitely isn't! Lol
Anyhoo, now I've finished this, it's back over to the Superdreadnought series for me, and on to book four.
This is yet another series I'm enjoying, so it's no problem for me to have to switch back and forth - in fact, it makes life that little bit more fun 👍
June 17, 2025
Bourne by Eli Clarke dives deeper into the philosophical and technical questions surrounding artificial intelligence than the last couple of installments. The story centers around the birth of a new AI—not just an upgrade or extension of existing systems, but something fundamentally new. This makes for a more compelling and conceptually rich read.
What stood out was Clarke’s exploration of what it means for an AI to be “new.” Is it new code? A new kind of consciousness? A break from inherited logic? These questions add layers to the narrative, pushing the reader to think beyond the typical man-vs-machine trope.
One lingering issue for me—raised but not fully explored in the book—is the limitation of AI replication. If a self-aware AI emerges, what prevents it from copying or multiplying itself indefinitely? Is it ethical constraints? Hardware limits? A plot oversight? It left me wanting a deeper dive into the mechanics or philosophical guardrails that might explain this boundary.
Overall, a solid and more engaging entry in the series, especially for readers interested in the intersection of AI, identity, and autonomy.
What stood out was Clarke’s exploration of what it means for an AI to be “new.” Is it new code? A new kind of consciousness? A break from inherited logic? These questions add layers to the narrative, pushing the reader to think beyond the typical man-vs-machine trope.
One lingering issue for me—raised but not fully explored in the book—is the limitation of AI replication. If a self-aware AI emerges, what prevents it from copying or multiplying itself indefinitely? Is it ethical constraints? Hardware limits? A plot oversight? It left me wanting a deeper dive into the mechanics or philosophical guardrails that might explain this boundary.
Overall, a solid and more engaging entry in the series, especially for readers interested in the intersection of AI, identity, and autonomy.
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.
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.
January 12, 2018
The worst yet!
This series of books has been going downhill for about nine months. The first 15 or 20 were very good then things got spotty. One in three books would be very good the others unreadable. This one, I must admit was well written and I read to the end. That was because I kept expecting something to happen, silly me. The characters were engaging the setting was interesting but outside of that this was a huge nothing burger: No action, no plot and no ending. I think I am just about done with Anderale’s smug project.
This series of books has been going downhill for about nine months. The first 15 or 20 were very good then things got spotty. One in three books would be very good the others unreadable. This one, I must admit was well written and I read to the end. That was because I kept expecting something to happen, silly me. The characters were engaging the setting was interesting but outside of that this was a huge nothing burger: No action, no plot and no ending. I think I am just about done with Anderale’s smug project.
January 10, 2018
So Worth the wait!
This new chapter in Molly's adventures has some some very interesting developments and I'm truly looking forward to find out what happens next. Molly is still making changes, some of which are unknown even to her, and the past is making its presence known in no uncertain terms.
This group's "universe" is shifting again, and I'm completely on board for the journey.
Thanks, once again, Ell Leigh Clarke and Michael Anderle, for letting us enjoy the ride!!
This new chapter in Molly's adventures has some some very interesting developments and I'm truly looking forward to find out what happens next. Molly is still making changes, some of which are unknown even to her, and the past is making its presence known in no uncertain terms.
This group's "universe" is shifting again, and I'm completely on board for the journey.
Thanks, once again, Ell Leigh Clarke and Michael Anderle, for letting us enjoy the ride!!
August 17, 2018
Better than part 7
I was disappointed with the seventh book, it seemed disjointed so I waited months, like 8, to start book 8. Of course I spent that time reading other books from all the authors in TKG universe and other MA titles (Brownstone et.al.) I found this book flowed better but still not as well as some of the others in the series so 4 out of 5. Now off to read books 9 and 10.
I was disappointed with the seventh book, it seemed disjointed so I waited months, like 8, to start book 8. Of course I spent that time reading other books from all the authors in TKG universe and other MA titles (Brownstone et.al.) I found this book flowed better but still not as well as some of the others in the series so 4 out of 5. Now off to read books 9 and 10.
October 26, 2022
Baby Oz?
Ok, I'm of an age that loves the Ozzy Osbourne references. I sat here all by myself laughing out loud at Bourne's logic naming himself. My neighbors already know I'm not even close to "normal" but when I start hysterically laughing they do look at me a bit off for a few days. This book has quite a few great funny moments and some poignant ones. Molly is facing a hell of a lot of challenges to come and I can't wait to see where they lead her. Enjoy!
Ok, I'm of an age that loves the Ozzy Osbourne references. I sat here all by myself laughing out loud at Bourne's logic naming himself. My neighbors already know I'm not even close to "normal" but when I start hysterically laughing they do look at me a bit off for a few days. This book has quite a few great funny moments and some poignant ones. Molly is facing a hell of a lot of challenges to come and I can't wait to see where they lead her. Enjoy!
January 11, 2018
The Big Meeting
So this story finally has that big meeting with her parents... it becomes easy to see why the meeting was so long in the coming. One is left with the feeling that something shifty is going on and maybe Molly is not quite as guilty as she holds herself to be (Just my impression). And Sean... Hmm have to wait on that one lol
So this story finally has that big meeting with her parents... it becomes easy to see why the meeting was so long in the coming. One is left with the feeling that something shifty is going on and maybe Molly is not quite as guilty as she holds herself to be (Just my impression). And Sean... Hmm have to wait on that one lol
June 18, 2020
Yet another outstanding book in the Molly saga. In this one, we looking into the quagmire of a true working AI and the possibilities and dangers a truly thinking and decision making entity could be for us as humans. IF only we could keep politics and religion out of the equation! I highly recommend this book and the entire series to anyone with the maturity to read it.
May 26, 2023
Love Baby Bourne!
So much going up, but also first time I am in a cliffhanger. So much is going on here and no endings for anything, except Bourne being safe, in sight. I am not sure about Giles, Sean, Molly's sneaky mom, Molly's new powers of persuasion, the end of Carl, nor bad university guy. See! Left on the cliff! And is M-iles a real thing? Ahhhhhh!
So much going up, but also first time I am in a cliffhanger. So much is going on here and no endings for anything, except Bourne being safe, in sight. I am not sure about Giles, Sean, Molly's sneaky mom, Molly's new powers of persuasion, the end of Carl, nor bad university guy. See! Left on the cliff! And is M-iles a real thing? Ahhhhhh!
January 10, 2018
Really loved it
What is going to happen with Bourne? Loved how he was freed. Molly and Giles? Not sure. Molly finding out what her mother is doing and Sean finding out, totally into that, yea!!!
What is going to happen with Bourne? Loved how he was freed. Molly and Giles? Not sure. Molly finding out what her mother is doing and Sean finding out, totally into that, yea!!!
January 11, 2018
Best, yet!
Okay, so, after overcoming so much, as she was writing this book, she has managed to trump all of her other stories with this one! I ABSOLUTELY, unequivocally Loved this book! I honestly feel like she put her heart and soul into it!
Okay, so, after overcoming so much, as she was writing this book, she has managed to trump all of her other stories with this one! I ABSOLUTELY, unequivocally Loved this book! I honestly feel like she put her heart and soul into it!
January 12, 2018
Auspicious ending or beginning?
I’ll let the reader determine whether the youngster AI known as Bourne is coming or going. As sure as the etheric layer exists for Mrs Bates daughter, Oz’s digital son has aspirations. Make way!
I’ll let the reader determine whether the youngster AI known as Bourne is coming or going. As sure as the etheric layer exists for Mrs Bates daughter, Oz’s digital son has aspirations. Make way!
January 12, 2018
Another great Molly story
Some surprises in this one! No bang bang shoot ups but a lot of good character development. Several interesting threads lead off to multi threaded cliffhanger.
Some surprises in this one! No bang bang shoot ups but a lot of good character development. Several interesting threads lead off to multi threaded cliffhanger.
January 13, 2018
One of the best
I have to say that this series continues to thrill me. I will admit that I have read every book dealing with the Kutherian Universe and this series is by far my favorite.
I have to say that this series continues to thrill me. I will admit that I have read every book dealing with the Kutherian Universe and this series is by far my favorite.
January 15, 2018
Oz is a Daddy!!
Molly meets her parents and who knew they were operatives!! Now Mom is looking into what Molly is up to and being around Mr. Royale!! Molly may have new powers!! Can’t wait for the next one!!
Molly meets her parents and who knew they were operatives!! Now Mom is looking into what Molly is up to and being around Mr. Royale!! Molly may have new powers!! Can’t wait for the next one!!
January 26, 2018
Loved it but!
I love these books but felt this one was more like the old to e serialized radio shows. Pluses so much going on and felt maybe there could be a bit more insight into each part of the action arcs. Looking for more soon.
I love these books but felt this one was more like the old to e serialized radio shows. Pluses so much going on and felt maybe there could be a bit more insight into each part of the action arcs. Looking for more soon.
June 22, 2018
One More Winner.!!!
Getting to know Molly very well, and looking forward to each and every visit. I'm fixing to start another right now, BUT, had to let you BOTH know how much I truly enjoy the Authors' Notes.
Getting to know Molly very well, and looking forward to each and every visit. I'm fixing to start another right now, BUT, had to let you BOTH know how much I truly enjoy the Authors' Notes.
June 23, 2018
Another in a long line of Awesome!
I'm a little late to the party on this one, but like all the others, Bourne doesn't disappoint. It was great to read Molly and catch up with her and the crew again! Looking forward to the others! Reiki that girl up, ninja authoress! DA
I'm a little late to the party on this one, but like all the others, Bourne doesn't disappoint. It was great to read Molly and catch up with her and the crew again! Looking forward to the others! Reiki that girl up, ninja authoress! DA
February 16, 2019
The Humourous one
As Molly goes through her evolution and more emotional aggro it seems things are changing as even Oz has become a parent. This one is more of a Humourous chuckle along than others but keep a steady flow.
As Molly goes through her evolution and more emotional aggro it seems things are changing as even Oz has become a parent. This one is more of a Humourous chuckle along than others but keep a steady flow.
April 29, 2020
I have liked all Ellie's books so far.
I bought all the rest that are available at this time, but started reading them from book one. I hope that Molly's realm jumping issues are resolved sooner rather than later and in a way that adds to her mystique. mrg
I bought all the rest that are available at this time, but started reading them from book one. I hope that Molly's realm jumping issues are resolved sooner rather than later and in a way that adds to her mystique. mrg
April 6, 2022
And a baby is born
Yay, what a great read, a new baby, long awaited reunion, drama, voodoo hoodoo and much more to make this a suck you in kind of book.
Definitely recommend reading… now for book 9
Yay, what a great read, a new baby, long awaited reunion, drama, voodoo hoodoo and much more to make this a suck you in kind of book.
Definitely recommend reading… now for book 9
September 23, 2024
Entertaining Read
Molly and crew have been busy. They have set up a leadership university while doing missions for the Federation and politics are always a problem. I like the action, humor, and strategy. I look forward to the next book.
Molly and crew have been busy. They have set up a leadership university while doing missions for the Federation and politics are always a problem. I like the action, humor, and strategy. I look forward to the next book.
January 10, 2018
Molly’s back at again
Get read for a baby what you say well read this fun and moving story for more as this KGU off shoot story continues.
Get read for a baby what you say well read this fun and moving story for more as this KGU off shoot story continues.
January 11, 2018
Threads abound!
Excellent! Love all the growing and maturing that's going on with all the characters.
Welcome Bourne! Can't wait to read the next installment. Great job Ms. Ell.
Excellent! Love all the growing and maturing that's going on with all the characters.
Welcome Bourne! Can't wait to read the next installment. Great job Ms. Ell.
January 11, 2018
Nice!!
This author may have had some situations, that delayed book 8, but I gotta tell you, it was F***ing worth waiting for!! GREAT book! You did good!!!!!
This author may have had some situations, that delayed book 8, but I gotta tell you, it was F***ing worth waiting for!! GREAT book! You did good!!!!!
January 11, 2018
Great reading.
A good read. Moves along well, makes you to go back and read the other books . Enjoy this book.
A good read. Moves along well, makes you to go back and read the other books . Enjoy this book.
January 17, 2018
Loved it!
5* because it is now 3:53 in Southampton UK and I haven't been able to put it down, and if there was more.....would still be reading. Thank you both.
5* because it is now 3:53 in Southampton UK and I haven't been able to put it down, and if there was more.....would still be reading. Thank you both.
January 19, 2018
The series is floundering and it only got 3* due to storylines of the first 4 books.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews