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Age of Expansion: The Ascension Myth #10
Subversion
Molly learns a lesson or two when what should have been a routine mission turns into a comical farce.
Meanwhile down on Estaria Director Bates puts together pieces of a plot which point to a reality check for the Federenials who always thought that the Federation would be there to protect them.
At some point, Molly grew up and it takes a Grimes to show her, and her team, how Molly has changed.
And Molly to help re-direct a Grimes towards the right path in life.
--- 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.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2018
280 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
About the author
Ell Leigh Clarke
70 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 32 reviews
January 7, 2020
The art of anti-story
It's really hard to hang in when there is so much non story. Mocha table and snacks, filler. And only giving a wisp of information explanation context. Over and over the characters are updated informed but with nothing for the reader. No logic no reasoning. I don't remember who the girl is. But you write like I should, you never gave a Giles latest mission run down yet you refer to it like you did. You establish Katrinas character only by saying she proved herself in a scenario not given to the reader. Your story buildings mini stories are so light any real info it's hard to keep going. The real story events are too far apart. It is called world building for a reason. If there isn't a foundation then its not working. I can see this is a writers convention I've seen it book after book. This isn't Clarke Less puff balls and more substance. These books could be good. But don't refer to something only the characters know. It's the reader who should be in the know. It will not confuse reader or get in the way of the story line give your reader more credit. I'm trying, sorry for being crabby, over all I am a fan of your books. I just don't care for heavy handed short cuts
It's really hard to hang in when there is so much non story. Mocha table and snacks, filler. And only giving a wisp of information explanation context. Over and over the characters are updated informed but with nothing for the reader. No logic no reasoning. I don't remember who the girl is. But you write like I should, you never gave a Giles latest mission run down yet you refer to it like you did. You establish Katrinas character only by saying she proved herself in a scenario not given to the reader. Your story buildings mini stories are so light any real info it's hard to keep going. The real story events are too far apart. It is called world building for a reason. If there isn't a foundation then its not working. I can see this is a writers convention I've seen it book after book. This isn't Clarke Less puff balls and more substance. These books could be good. But don't refer to something only the characters know. It's the reader who should be in the know. It will not confuse reader or get in the way of the story line give your reader more credit. I'm trying, sorry for being crabby, over all I am a fan of your books. I just don't care for heavy handed short cuts
July 1, 2025
I went into Subversion with cautious optimism, intrigued by the premise and hoping for a strong follow-up to Clarke’s earlier work. Unfortunately, what I found instead was a narrative that feels like it keeps reinventing itself rather than building momentum.
One of my biggest frustrations was the constant introduction of new characters—even late in the book. Just when I thought we were finally going to pay off earlier storylines, a fresh cast would pop in, doing their own thing, disconnected from the arcs I’d been following. It gave the impression of a fragmented plot held together more by theme than character or continuity.
This disjointedness might have stung less if I weren’t currently rewatching the Foundation TV series. Say what you will about Foundation’s sprawling, timeline-hopping structure, but it still manages to create a coherent sense of progression. Subversion instead feels like it's juggling too many ideas and perspectives, diluting the impact of any one storyline.
In the end, Clarke’s prose is readable and the world-building has potential, but the pacing and lack of narrative cohesion made it hard to stay invested. If there’s a sequel, I hope it narrows its scope and deepens the connections rather than adding even more loose threads.
One of my biggest frustrations was the constant introduction of new characters—even late in the book. Just when I thought we were finally going to pay off earlier storylines, a fresh cast would pop in, doing their own thing, disconnected from the arcs I’d been following. It gave the impression of a fragmented plot held together more by theme than character or continuity.
This disjointedness might have stung less if I weren’t currently rewatching the Foundation TV series. Say what you will about Foundation’s sprawling, timeline-hopping structure, but it still manages to create a coherent sense of progression. Subversion instead feels like it's juggling too many ideas and perspectives, diluting the impact of any one storyline.
In the end, Clarke’s prose is readable and the world-building has potential, but the pacing and lack of narrative cohesion made it hard to stay invested. If there’s a sequel, I hope it narrows its scope and deepens the connections rather than adding even more loose threads.
July 20, 2018
Good read
I figured out what was bothering me in this series.
The last three books, if i remember correctly, only earned 4*s from me, which is unusual because the plotlines, characters, dialogue, and pacing were all fantastic. But i wasn't able to give them 5*s because "something" was wrong and i couldn't put my finger on, precisely, what it was.
Ms Clarke was writing two different books and incorporating them into one.
The University storyline would make an EXCELLENT basis for its own series, a la The Etheric University series.
Incorporating it into this series was too much.
I understand the whys and what fors; there had to be a way to connect Molly to the Federation AND the planet, but it could've been accomplished in one book with the plotlines referred to as asides in the rest and starting up another series where we get all of that juicy storyline.
My suggestion would be to run with that concept in the future Nickie books so as not to have to jump back and forth between Tabby and Nickie.
I figured out what was bothering me in this series.
The last three books, if i remember correctly, only earned 4*s from me, which is unusual because the plotlines, characters, dialogue, and pacing were all fantastic. But i wasn't able to give them 5*s because "something" was wrong and i couldn't put my finger on, precisely, what it was.
Ms Clarke was writing two different books and incorporating them into one.
The University storyline would make an EXCELLENT basis for its own series, a la The Etheric University series.
Incorporating it into this series was too much.
I understand the whys and what fors; there had to be a way to connect Molly to the Federation AND the planet, but it could've been accomplished in one book with the plotlines referred to as asides in the rest and starting up another series where we get all of that juicy storyline.
My suggestion would be to run with that concept in the future Nickie books so as not to have to jump back and forth between Tabby and Nickie.
January 16, 2025
Thank you for taking up the pen
I can't say how much I live for TKG. I devour them as soon as I can, and ,I mean this literally, this world has helped save me.
I lost my fiance last year on new years day. As if that wasn't enough by itself, with that I also lost my mobility, because I don't drive. I rent a room, have no tv, or computer and have a ten year old phone. I'm older, on disability and am basically a shut in except for Dr's visits and trips to the grocery store.
I deal with clinical depression and bipolar disorder, and the above facts were fast wearing on me.
Then I discovered TKG. I am devouring everything in that world, thanks to kindle and all you can read for less than the price of a single hard back.
The world has become my second home. Molly resonates with me. I too am socially awkward and have trouble fitting in. So thank you Ellie, Michael, and all the others for giving me a world that resonates with my core values.
I shudder to think how much darker my world is going to be when I reach the end. You have indeed made my life brighter.
I can't say how much I live for TKG. I devour them as soon as I can, and ,I mean this literally, this world has helped save me.
I lost my fiance last year on new years day. As if that wasn't enough by itself, with that I also lost my mobility, because I don't drive. I rent a room, have no tv, or computer and have a ten year old phone. I'm older, on disability and am basically a shut in except for Dr's visits and trips to the grocery store.
I deal with clinical depression and bipolar disorder, and the above facts were fast wearing on me.
Then I discovered TKG. I am devouring everything in that world, thanks to kindle and all you can read for less than the price of a single hard back.
The world has become my second home. Molly resonates with me. I too am socially awkward and have trouble fitting in. So thank you Ellie, Michael, and all the others for giving me a world that resonates with my core values.
I shudder to think how much darker my world is going to be when I reach the end. You have indeed made my life brighter.
May 21, 2022
Wow, this book was so full of plots, it was hard to take them all in.
That's not to say I didn't try, because this has to be the most intense book in the series, so far!
I loved every minute of it, though - especially Nickie turning up with Grim and Durq, and helping Mollie and her team with their mission.
I loved the byplay between all the characters, both Molly's team, and the trainee spies under Molly's parent's care. It was fascinating to see how they were being trained for the future.
It has got me perplexed, though, as to what the Clan are really up to - but I guess I won't learn what that will be, until I read the next book - and, looking at my reading list, that won't be until after I've read book two of Deuces Wild: Rampage, which means another dose of Nickie and Co. 👍
Mind you, seeing what time it is now, I guess I'd better get some sleep before starting that! Lol
That's not to say I didn't try, because this has to be the most intense book in the series, so far!
I loved every minute of it, though - especially Nickie turning up with Grim and Durq, and helping Mollie and her team with their mission.
I loved the byplay between all the characters, both Molly's team, and the trainee spies under Molly's parent's care. It was fascinating to see how they were being trained for the future.
It has got me perplexed, though, as to what the Clan are really up to - but I guess I won't learn what that will be, until I read the next book - and, looking at my reading list, that won't be until after I've read book two of Deuces Wild: Rampage, which means another dose of Nickie and Co. 👍
Mind you, seeing what time it is now, I guess I'd better get some sleep before starting that! Lol
September 17, 2019
20 pages of author notes?
I Love the series. Been hooked on the whole universe concept since the first Bethany Ann book, and generally like the spin offs. This one however seems to be veering off into a direction with all the new "kid spies" that totally doesn't interest me. I keep reading for the Molly team, but find myself skipping over the rest. And. I'm sorry, the 20 pages of author notes is truly unnecessary. I love your stories. But I don't need to know if you had coffee today or if you went to China last week. All of does is pull me away from the story you are telling me.
I Love the series. Been hooked on the whole universe concept since the first Bethany Ann book, and generally like the spin offs. This one however seems to be veering off into a direction with all the new "kid spies" that totally doesn't interest me. I keep reading for the Molly team, but find myself skipping over the rest. And. I'm sorry, the 20 pages of author notes is truly unnecessary. I love your stories. But I don't need to know if you had coffee today or if you went to China last week. All of does is pull me away from the story you are telling me.
June 16, 2018
Outstanding
Wow I am hooked on this series, it's taken over my weekend. As soon as I've read one I'm downloading the next one.
Which would be all right of I saved it for the next day but I'll just read to the next chapter. Next thing I know I'm going to sleep when the dawn chorus is starting. Dawn birds are so noisy and I'm sure the one outside my window is whistling I'm a Barbie girl.
Keep up the good work and I will keep reading.😀
Wow I am hooked on this series, it's taken over my weekend. As soon as I've read one I'm downloading the next one.
Which would be all right of I saved it for the next day but I'll just read to the next chapter. Next thing I know I'm going to sleep when the dawn chorus is starting. Dawn birds are so noisy and I'm sure the one outside my window is whistling I'm a Barbie girl.
Keep up the good work and I will keep reading.😀
June 22, 2020
There were parts of this story that kept the readers interest and then parts that just didn't make a lot of sense. The story is good, the plot is established, but I think trying to mix espionage, science fiction, and the complications of "Family" just did not work as well as the authors hoped. However, I still enjoy the series and there were some really good parts in this book, so I still highly recommend this story and the others.
May 8, 2018
Molly is back!!
Was waiting for another Molly and company book!!! Well we meet Nickie and her crew, wonder where this is going. Through some work on many peoples part the university is saved!! But there is something worse coming!! Read to find out what. Now I have to read Pew Pew to see Nickie’s back story!!
Was waiting for another Molly and company book!!! Well we meet Nickie and her crew, wonder where this is going. Through some work on many peoples part the university is saved!! But there is something worse coming!! Read to find out what. Now I have to read Pew Pew to see Nickie’s back story!!
May 24, 2018
A very good series
While I liked the Molly stories, I did not care for the last 10% of each book dedicated to your analysis, explaining or whatever you call what you were doing. The books stood on their own merit and didn't need your help. I suggest in your other books, to eliminate this junk.
While I liked the Molly stories, I did not care for the last 10% of each book dedicated to your analysis, explaining or whatever you call what you were doing. The books stood on their own merit and didn't need your help. I suggest in your other books, to eliminate this junk.
May 24, 2018
Ranger 2?
Wowee wow wow. Shock and awe I mean talk about surprises this is it.!!!!
I don't to put in spoilers out here but seriously this is the best (I have said this before) but time after time Ell Leagh hits it out of the park. Thank you All Learn can't wait to see the next book.
Wowee wow wow. Shock and awe I mean talk about surprises this is it.!!!!
I don't to put in spoilers out here but seriously this is the best (I have said this before) but time after time Ell Leagh hits it out of the park. Thank you All Learn can't wait to see the next book.
July 26, 2018
Only 2 Left
Another tour de force from Ell & Yoda. Great ride, have to say the author notes are fun too! If you are skipping them. Don't!!! And hey in the time it took you to read this, you could have left review for a hard working author and help the next person looking for new worlds to explore.
Another tour de force from Ell & Yoda. Great ride, have to say the author notes are fun too! If you are skipping them. Don't!!! And hey in the time it took you to read this, you could have left review for a hard working author and help the next person looking for new worlds to explore.
October 22, 2018
Perspective is Key
You know, this Author has a sneaky way of slipping in scenes that take on a completely different timbre if viewed from a different perspective.
Hint: in the bar night celebration, how could it look from the male's perspective? =8p
Epic read as usual, and definitely recommended!
You know, this Author has a sneaky way of slipping in scenes that take on a completely different timbre if viewed from a different perspective.
Hint: in the bar night celebration, how could it look from the male's perspective? =8p
Epic read as usual, and definitely recommended!
August 18, 2019
The plot thickens
Things are starting to happen. Molly and crew met someone calling themselves Ranger Two but Sean knows immediately that isn’t possible. Once again the team is caught up in action and Molly’s parents are running a school for spies. The students are learning quickly but none of them have worked out the real threat. Good sci-fi
Things are starting to happen. Molly and crew met someone calling themselves Ranger Two but Sean knows immediately that isn’t possible. Once again the team is caught up in action and Molly’s parents are running a school for spies. The students are learning quickly but none of them have worked out the real threat. Good sci-fi
January 11, 2020
What did I just read?
Was there a short story between book 9 & 10? This book has a mission that introduces new characters. A previous character is brought back to help resolve a holdover problem from book 9. A subset of characters continues an investigation from book 9. A romance blossoms. I need an updated reading order list and a nap.
Was there a short story between book 9 & 10? This book has a mission that introduces new characters. A previous character is brought back to help resolve a holdover problem from book 9. A subset of characters continues an investigation from book 9. A romance blossoms. I need an updated reading order list and a nap.
November 2, 2022
Another great read
Ell Leigh Clarke and Michael Anderle are magic writing together. Their characters are fascinating and are constantly growing which to me makes me care about them. I highly recommend you take the time to read this book and the entire series. Don't forget to read author notes. They are always entertaining and informative. Enjoy!
Ell Leigh Clarke and Michael Anderle are magic writing together. Their characters are fascinating and are constantly growing which to me makes me care about them. I highly recommend you take the time to read this book and the entire series. Don't forget to read author notes. They are always entertaining and informative. Enjoy!
May 4, 2018
Molly the Mom
Ha ha. Sorry I had to get that out. I absolutely loved this and I am really stoked to see where this build up is leading to. It was also excellent that Molly got to meet Ranger Two. Can't wait to read the next book.
Ha ha. Sorry I had to get that out. I absolutely loved this and I am really stoked to see where this build up is leading to. It was also excellent that Molly got to meet Ranger Two. Can't wait to read the next book.
May 7, 2018
Which way?
So much happening, yet it is all tying in to the central story. It's great that it isn't all immediate action, that they also have down time. Even heroes saving worlds need a break. So now I will be stalking the Facebook group to see when the next one will be published.
So much happening, yet it is all tying in to the central story. It's great that it isn't all immediate action, that they also have down time. Even heroes saving worlds need a break. So now I will be stalking the Facebook group to see when the next one will be published.
May 7, 2018
Outstanding
So much happening almost too much to keep up with. Loved the introduction of Nicky. Curious about what is happening on the planet. Can Carol, Molly and hang find out before too late?
So much happening almost too much to keep up with. Loved the introduction of Nicky. Curious about what is happening on the planet. Can Carol, Molly and hang find out before too late?
August 22, 2018
Sluggish...
First....Ms Clarke is a talented author but the books in this series have been slower paced recently with the exception of the one MA took over on. Great characters and stories but the two authors need to work on pacing together not just how to spell Nickie (Nicky)
First....Ms Clarke is a talented author but the books in this series have been slower paced recently with the exception of the one MA took over on. Great characters and stories but the two authors need to work on pacing together not just how to spell Nickie (Nicky)
April 6, 2022
subterfuge and intrigue
Another fantastic book by Clarke and Anderle with other KGU book characters making a cameo appearance. Now, the question I want answered is Molly and Joel going to get together before the end of this series, I sure hope so! Book 11, here I come
Another fantastic book by Clarke and Anderle with other KGU book characters making a cameo appearance. Now, the question I want answered is Molly and Joel going to get together before the end of this series, I sure hope so! Book 11, here I come
May 29, 2023
Keeps going, and so do I!
The university is saved but, with Molly's parents involved, we are left wondering about the real rogue agents. With our new young spooks lying about things, how do we understand what value "truth" really has? Getting toward the end .... So excited!
The university is saved but, with Molly's parents involved, we are left wondering about the real rogue agents. With our new young spooks lying about things, how do we understand what value "truth" really has? Getting toward the end .... So excited!
May 9, 2018
Great read as usual
Always enjoy reading about Molly and her crew. Lots happening and some humour too. Need to research about Nickie as l don't remember her.
Always enjoy reading about Molly and her crew. Lots happening and some humour too. Need to research about Nickie as l don't remember her.
May 11, 2018
Great
Another great book from a truly fantastic author. I love the way this story is unfolding. More books please ....
Another great book from a truly fantastic author. I love the way this story is unfolding. More books please ....
October 16, 2018
I enjoyed this latest book in the series and look forward to reading the next.
April 27, 2020
Audiobook
Just wish audiobook and kindle book was linked with whisper syncing, there are a couple of books that are not synced.
Just wish audiobook and kindle book was linked with whisper syncing, there are a couple of books that are not synced.
February 19, 2022
Still working my way through this sub series
March 9, 2024
Great book ! I really enjoyed it ! Lots of action and suspense. Molly has become a great leader. Never saw that coming with her parents. Can’t wait for the next book.
March 12, 2024
Fast-paced fun
This book was very difficult to put down in the best way! The stories were compelling and the increasing level of intrigue created perfect tension.
This book was very difficult to put down in the best way! The stories were compelling and the increasing level of intrigue created perfect tension.
May 11, 2018
Love Molly
I am so happy to have a Molly book!
I can’t wait to see where the story line goes with Nikki.
I am so happy to have a Molly book!
I can’t wait to see where the story line goes with Nikki.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews