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Ascension: Volume I, Part I
Eleven years of Parker Stevens' life have sped by, the time moving so slowly, he’d assumed he would be in the mental institution forever for the murders he’d committed when he was fifteen. His days are monotonous and uneventful...until he is released and meets her.
She elicits a feeling in him so strong that a power awakens within his very being. He doesn’t recognize himself or understand why the power ignites whenever he’s around her. Either way, Parker knows he’s in love.
Luna is trapped. She lives with the man who kidnapped her as a child and subsequently raised her. Now, she’s his lover, a role she is forced to portray and to accept. However, it doesn’t stop her from hating his guts.
She remains because she is indebted; she must continue to use herself as payment in order to free her father from captivity. But then she meets Parker, the man’s nephew, and starts to want something...for herself...for once.
She elicits a feeling in him so strong that a power awakens within his very being. He doesn’t recognize himself or understand why the power ignites whenever he’s around her. Either way, Parker knows he’s in love.
Luna is trapped. She lives with the man who kidnapped her as a child and subsequently raised her. Now, she’s his lover, a role she is forced to portray and to accept. However, it doesn’t stop her from hating his guts.
She remains because she is indebted; she must continue to use herself as payment in order to free her father from captivity. But then she meets Parker, the man’s nephew, and starts to want something...for herself...for once.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2018
39 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
Yolanda Hatcher
6 books19 followersStoryteller. Devoted wife and proud mom to both feline and canine companions.
Certified aficionado of swoon-worthy romance fantasy, spiced up with a dash of magic and drama.
Her books? They're like a secret escape hatch from the humdrum of everyday life, where words become the paint, and stories are her canvas.
Embark on her literary escapade where love, enchantment, and a generous serving of rebellion are always at your fingertips.
yolandahatcher.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 6, 2018
I'm heading to part two right now. :-)
January 20, 2019
Now I am at the end of the story I am at a bit of a loss as to what to write that would aptly portray my opinion of this book. This is my first experience with the author and the narrators so I did not know what to expect. Based on the rave reviews I came across for this title and the synopsis I expected an exciting read/listen. Sorry to say I am in the minority with regard to the rave reviews as the story failed to deliver what I expected. I guess this one was not for me.
Story
The story had potential, but I never connected with it. There were parts I found interesting, but these were overshadowed by the parts of the story that dragged.
Characters
The characters proved interesting, but I never connected with them. Initially, I found myself liking them, but then a particular revelation caused me to lose all developing connections. By the time, it came to light that the revelation was false it was too late to reestablish the lost connection.
One of the things I had difficulty wrapping my brain around was the relationship between the main characters, Luna and Parker. Parker had no contact with the outside world for 11 years because of time spent in a mental institution. Luna has been living under the evil thumb of her so-called guardian from she was eight years old. Now the moment they laid eyes on each other they knew they were in love. I had a hard time buying into that one even after events unfolded.
Magic and supernatural powers abound but it was not enough to make me enjoy this one. The cliffhanger ending helped to make the situation worse.
Narration.
The narration helped to make the story bearable, but it was not enough to get me excited. Four narrators were used in the story’s narration. I thought they did a good job in capturing the unique personalities of the characters through their voices. The pacing and tones were good, and they captured each of the characters’ emotions well.
Conclusion/ Recommendation
I wanted to like this book, but it just did not work for me. Other readers Urban Fantasy may like this more than I did. I do not believe I will continue the series.
Story
The story had potential, but I never connected with it. There were parts I found interesting, but these were overshadowed by the parts of the story that dragged.
Characters
The characters proved interesting, but I never connected with them. Initially, I found myself liking them, but then a particular revelation caused me to lose all developing connections. By the time, it came to light that the revelation was false it was too late to reestablish the lost connection.
One of the things I had difficulty wrapping my brain around was the relationship between the main characters, Luna and Parker. Parker had no contact with the outside world for 11 years because of time spent in a mental institution. Luna has been living under the evil thumb of her so-called guardian from she was eight years old. Now the moment they laid eyes on each other they knew they were in love. I had a hard time buying into that one even after events unfolded.
Magic and supernatural powers abound but it was not enough to make me enjoy this one. The cliffhanger ending helped to make the situation worse.
Narration.
The narration helped to make the story bearable, but it was not enough to get me excited. Four narrators were used in the story’s narration. I thought they did a good job in capturing the unique personalities of the characters through their voices. The pacing and tones were good, and they captured each of the characters’ emotions well.
Conclusion/ Recommendation
I wanted to like this book, but it just did not work for me. Other readers Urban Fantasy may like this more than I did. I do not believe I will continue the series.
May 12, 2019
This was a very interesting book. It got a little confusing at times trying to keep the characters and their lineage straight. But by the end I found myself really enjoying it. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
May 24, 2018
Surprisingly good read
As a huge SJM fan, I am incredibly picky and have pretty high standards for any fantasy/paranormal books that I read. Sadly most new books that I read in this genre end up disappointing me or I’m not even able to finish it due to lack of quality.
However, I gave Ascension a shot and it kept surprising me. I kept expecting to get bored, or disappointed in the characters or plot, but it kept me interested throughout. I ended up reading it in about a day and a half and I didn’t even realize I had reached the end until I was on the last page trying to go further. Typically that’s the point when I will either completely give up on a series or really anticipate the next book or volume in this case. And I am really looking forward to seeing where she goes in the next volume!
I like that Ascension has the same fantasy elements that I love but creates a new way to put those elements together- having modern day characters but we still get to experience the more “medieval” fairy realm too. I also really like the mystery of slowly discovering what the characters are capable of and what secret talents they have as the book goes on.
The book is categorized as adult fantasy and I agree that there are definitely adult themes. My only critique here is that even with the adult themes, there is still a slight YA feel to me throughout the book. As I said, I enjoy the characters but they seemed about 10 years younger than their written ages in the book - they felt more like teenagers to me than people in their mid twenties. This could change as the characters continue to grow within their new roles...
All in all - definitely worth the read for fantasy/paranormal romance/adventure fans. Looking forward to volume 2!
As a huge SJM fan, I am incredibly picky and have pretty high standards for any fantasy/paranormal books that I read. Sadly most new books that I read in this genre end up disappointing me or I’m not even able to finish it due to lack of quality.
However, I gave Ascension a shot and it kept surprising me. I kept expecting to get bored, or disappointed in the characters or plot, but it kept me interested throughout. I ended up reading it in about a day and a half and I didn’t even realize I had reached the end until I was on the last page trying to go further. Typically that’s the point when I will either completely give up on a series or really anticipate the next book or volume in this case. And I am really looking forward to seeing where she goes in the next volume!
I like that Ascension has the same fantasy elements that I love but creates a new way to put those elements together- having modern day characters but we still get to experience the more “medieval” fairy realm too. I also really like the mystery of slowly discovering what the characters are capable of and what secret talents they have as the book goes on.
The book is categorized as adult fantasy and I agree that there are definitely adult themes. My only critique here is that even with the adult themes, there is still a slight YA feel to me throughout the book. As I said, I enjoy the characters but they seemed about 10 years younger than their written ages in the book - they felt more like teenagers to me than people in their mid twenties. This could change as the characters continue to grow within their new roles...
All in all - definitely worth the read for fantasy/paranormal romance/adventure fans. Looking forward to volume 2!
September 2, 2018
This is a good beginning , I look forward to seeing what happens next in this series. A bond is instant between Parker and Luna , but their meeting looks innocent but occurs within dark circumstances. This story isn’t a sweet love story , its complicated and at times the description of what and why made me cross my eyes , but stay with it , I’ll come together. This book is more of a introduction, to what seems to be interesting series.
October 15, 2018
I was overjoyed when the audible version of this book came out. Yolanda Hatcher managed to bring all the chemistry between Luna and Parker out in this audible. As short as it was. It’s not an insta love/get married/have a baby type of fantasy romance. This is a slow burn with a whole lot of back story filled with detail fantasy romance. It has all the requirements that I want for a slow burn romance, but with so much more depth. A love triangle, kidnapping, lost memories, forbidden love, and lost goes on. All with the bonus that this is fantasy. I can’t wait for the part 2. Which is out now!!!!😊 time to download and read...
August 2, 2018
What can I say? First and foremost what an excellent debut novel! The reason why I loved this book so much was the way the story was structured. Yolanda did an amazing job at describing the characters and bringing them to light. Since is a series she builds up the story really well for the next installment. By the end of the book you are anticipating the next book. I think Yolanda is phenomenal and she brought her own magic to make it even more special! ;)
October 16, 2018
This is such a wonderful story. Everything you will ever need in a book. Magic, adventure, good guys and bad! I fell in love immediately with this world and its characters. Yolanda is new to me and I’m itching for more!! Great performances from all the narrator’s.
July 27, 2018
😍😍😍😍
I love this book so much!!! An Epic story of love, betrayal, and secrets!!! Worth every second of my time!!!
I love this book so much!!! An Epic story of love, betrayal, and secrets!!! Worth every second of my time!!!
September 29, 2018
This was my first Yolanda Hatcher novel and I loved it. This fantasy story had me hooked and at the edge of my seat from beginning to end. There was never a dull moment, the story was fast paced,
intriguing, well-written and engrossing with twists and turns along the way. The main characters Luna and Parker had intense chemistry and the other characters were all so interesting and had so much to offer.
I listened to the audible version of this novel and I greatly enjoyed it. It was Narrated by Anne-Marie Agbodji, Jason Clarke, Amanda Leigh Cobb and John York. They did an amazing job with the characters and giving life to them. The story ended in a cliff-hanger and I can't wait for the next book. I would highly recommend this story. It was a great read.
intriguing, well-written and engrossing with twists and turns along the way. The main characters Luna and Parker had intense chemistry and the other characters were all so interesting and had so much to offer.
I listened to the audible version of this novel and I greatly enjoyed it. It was Narrated by Anne-Marie Agbodji, Jason Clarke, Amanda Leigh Cobb and John York. They did an amazing job with the characters and giving life to them. The story ended in a cliff-hanger and I can't wait for the next book. I would highly recommend this story. It was a great read.
September 28, 2018
This was my first Yolanda Hatcher's book and definitely won't be the last. This paranormal romance story is really well written, complex, interesting, captivating and entertaining. I love the story of Parker and Luna. Their chemistry is really strong! The other characters are also very interesting. The storyline is filled with twist and turns and the story ends with a cliffhanger. I can't wait for the next book in the Series! The narration is absolutely breathtaking and exceptionally well done. The narrators have a great voice, easy to listen. I really enjoyed my listening. I received this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
October 24, 2018
I really enjoyed this book, but to give everyone warning, it has a cliffhanger. I am anxious to see what happens next and hope the next audiobook is released soon.
January 29, 2019
Second Read:
Parker is released from a mental hospital after being there for most of his young adult and adult life. He reunites with his twin and uncle to find a woman who attracts his attention in ways he can't explain. She is off limits to him because his uncle owns her. Luna has been enslaved to Parker's uncle since she was 14 years old. She has long ago accepted that her life is not her own. That changes when she meets Parker.
I really enjoyed this novel. It was intense and thrilling and full of mystery and intrigue. Luna is adorably sassy and easy to grow attached to. Parker has been through a lot in his life. He has major trust issues, but he also has a great instinct and power of observation as well. I liked him.
This is a book that I really feel could use to be a bit longer. There were parts that I feel should have been drawn out a bit more. I do love the fact that they used four narrators though. Very brilliant touch. It added some flair and dramatics to the story.
I fully recommend this story. It's very intense and fast-paced. It's intriguing and alluring. This is my second time reading it and I can't wait to dive into part 2. I can just feel that it's going to be just as intense as this one if not more so. I'm glad I stumbled upon this book.
First Read:
I loved loved loved this book! I need to get my hands on the rest of them so I can devour this story! The characters were quick to connect to and root for or hate. I really adored the darkness versus light vibe as well. It could have been the normal blah blah of it all, but it wasn't. It had a very unique twist that I adored. I just couldn't get enough. I didn't want to stop reading.
There's only one little flaw I find with this book is that there are certain moments that were brushed over that I feel like should have been given more clarification. Also, it takes a bit to realize that time has jumped. This is just my opinion of course. Maybe it's written like that on purpose.
Either way, I loved it. I fully enjoyed it. I couldn't get enough of it. I fully recommend it! I NEED THE REST OF THE BOOKS!
Parker is released from a mental hospital after being there for most of his young adult and adult life. He reunites with his twin and uncle to find a woman who attracts his attention in ways he can't explain. She is off limits to him because his uncle owns her. Luna has been enslaved to Parker's uncle since she was 14 years old. She has long ago accepted that her life is not her own. That changes when she meets Parker.
I really enjoyed this novel. It was intense and thrilling and full of mystery and intrigue. Luna is adorably sassy and easy to grow attached to. Parker has been through a lot in his life. He has major trust issues, but he also has a great instinct and power of observation as well. I liked him.
This is a book that I really feel could use to be a bit longer. There were parts that I feel should have been drawn out a bit more. I do love the fact that they used four narrators though. Very brilliant touch. It added some flair and dramatics to the story.
I fully recommend this story. It's very intense and fast-paced. It's intriguing and alluring. This is my second time reading it and I can't wait to dive into part 2. I can just feel that it's going to be just as intense as this one if not more so. I'm glad I stumbled upon this book.
First Read:
I loved loved loved this book! I need to get my hands on the rest of them so I can devour this story! The characters were quick to connect to and root for or hate. I really adored the darkness versus light vibe as well. It could have been the normal blah blah of it all, but it wasn't. It had a very unique twist that I adored. I just couldn't get enough. I didn't want to stop reading.
There's only one little flaw I find with this book is that there are certain moments that were brushed over that I feel like should have been given more clarification. Also, it takes a bit to realize that time has jumped. This is just my opinion of course. Maybe it's written like that on purpose.
Either way, I loved it. I fully enjoyed it. I couldn't get enough of it. I fully recommend it! I NEED THE REST OF THE BOOKS!
June 21, 2018
This book could be better if it was more flushed out.
May 5, 2018
💮👑💮💣
The cover intrigued me....the sample pulled me in....it started as a beginning of a dark and twisted love storyline....that quickly morphed into an otherworldly saga....Parker was imprisoned in a facility that houses the mentally insane....Luna was imprisoned in a mansion with a sadistic sexual predator...since the age of 14....who later turned out to be the uncle of Parker..that's when the story changes ...that's when the Ascension begins....when mates have bonded....realms are aligned...loyalties shifts....light against dark....pieces are moved on the chessboard.....and the true Queen makes an appearance...but so does the Prince....who was her Knight....who may become her chosen King....I am patiently waiting for the second part..m
The cover intrigued me....the sample pulled me in....it started as a beginning of a dark and twisted love storyline....that quickly morphed into an otherworldly saga....Parker was imprisoned in a facility that houses the mentally insane....Luna was imprisoned in a mansion with a sadistic sexual predator...since the age of 14....who later turned out to be the uncle of Parker..that's when the story changes ...that's when the Ascension begins....when mates have bonded....realms are aligned...loyalties shifts....light against dark....pieces are moved on the chessboard.....and the true Queen makes an appearance...but so does the Prince....who was her Knight....who may become her chosen King....I am patiently waiting for the second part..m
May 11, 2018
This is definitely worth the hours of lost sleep.
I don't write well reviews but here is a good try. Parker and Luna meet this is where the story is like Romeo and Juliet have a menage with flowers in the attic and beauty and the beast and they have baby. This was so we'll written. Very quickly you develop a bond with the main characters and physically feel their pain. I cried when I realized the next book isn't out yet... Just WoW.
I don't write well reviews but here is a good try. Parker and Luna meet this is where the story is like Romeo and Juliet have a menage with flowers in the attic and beauty and the beast and they have baby. This was so we'll written. Very quickly you develop a bond with the main characters and physically feel their pain. I cried when I realized the next book isn't out yet... Just WoW.
May 4, 2018
Great Read
I love a great paranormal/fantasy book. This book is everything. It has adventure, the main characters have amazing chemistry like no other, and it has a great story. I did not want this book to end. I need vol 2 as soon as possible.
I love a great paranormal/fantasy book. This book is everything. It has adventure, the main characters have amazing chemistry like no other, and it has a great story. I did not want this book to end. I need vol 2 as soon as possible.
May 22, 2018
Part 2 please
I loved the concept of the story. It was an interesting book. I want to read more. Just waiting on book 2.
I loved the concept of the story. It was an interesting book. I want to read more. Just waiting on book 2.
March 24, 2019
OMG! LOVED and don’t have time to write a review bc I need to listen to part 2 now.
Edited: Epic, part 2 is even better! Crazy crazy crazy!
Favorite audio’s!!!
Edited: Epic, part 2 is even better! Crazy crazy crazy!
Favorite audio’s!!!
June 7, 2020
This is my first book by Yolanda Hatcher. I was hooked from the very beginning. This book kept me on my toes with twists and turns. The characters are complex and as the story progresses you learn more and more about those hidden layers - sometimes hidden even from themselves. I did not see it coming! I was pulled into another world in a seamless flow of worlds, caught up in the current and I couldn't put it down! If you are like me you will be screaming (internally) at characters to change direction, to react differently, to STOP. They will not listen, but strap in because this fantasy romance is worth the frustration, the angst, the tears, and the wait!
I chose this book because Jason Clarke is one of my favorite narrators, but ALL of the narrators in this book are fantastic! The emotions of the characters bleed through in their performances such that I absolutely devoured the entire series and was never pulled out of character. All of the despair, loathing, want, lust, confusion, love, and vengeance had me on the edge of my seat. This first book is a cliffhanger, so plan on reading the first three books in succession for this story arc. I very highly recommend this series as one of the best so far in 2020!
I chose this book because Jason Clarke is one of my favorite narrators, but ALL of the narrators in this book are fantastic! The emotions of the characters bleed through in their performances such that I absolutely devoured the entire series and was never pulled out of character. All of the despair, loathing, want, lust, confusion, love, and vengeance had me on the edge of my seat. This first book is a cliffhanger, so plan on reading the first three books in succession for this story arc. I very highly recommend this series as one of the best so far in 2020!
October 12, 2019
I listened to the audible version. I liked the story, but loved the performance. There were different performers for different points of view, which really adds to the story. Most of the story was read by Jason Clarke and (I think) Amanda Leigh Cobb, who both did a fantastic job.
This was the first book I've read/listened to by Yolanda Hatcher, but I'm going to start Part II right away. I would have preferred to have Parts I and II combined into one book, as the story didn't feel complete after Part I.
#AudiobookObsession
This was the first book I've read/listened to by Yolanda Hatcher, but I'm going to start Part II right away. I would have preferred to have Parts I and II combined into one book, as the story didn't feel complete after Part I.
#AudiobookObsession
March 28, 2019
* AUDIOBOOK REVIEW *
I liked this story, it was exiting and unusual with fairytale qualities.
Good characters descriptions
Suspense has me on the edge
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Plenty of dialogues
This is for all of us fantasy lovers.
Narrators:
Clear pronunciation and read with feelings.
🎧 #AudiobookObsessionReviewer
I liked this story, it was exiting and unusual with fairytale qualities.
Good characters descriptions
Suspense has me on the edge
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Plenty of dialogues
This is for all of us fantasy lovers.
Narrators:
Clear pronunciation and read with feelings.
🎧 #AudiobookObsessionReviewer
March 29, 2019
This is a first for me by this author. These 2 books kept popping up in my Audiobook groups so I had to give them a shot. While the beginning was a mystery, dark, dragged me in type of story, over 1/2 way the fantasy part of the story wasn't explained very well. It needed to be worked more to deliver properly. I'm debating if I should listen to the next one. Narrators were perfect.
September 17, 2019
Wow what an amazing storyline, nothing in this story is what it seems. It is chalked full of twists, turns, intrigue, suspense, and Magic. The characters aren’t even who they proclaim to be, which brings me to the narrators, they did a fantastic job bringing these characters to life.
Reviewed for Audiobook Obsession
Reviewed for Audiobook Obsession
March 6, 2019
The first half was interesting but as the story changed to more paranormal, the writing couldn’t keep up with the changes. The world building was just thrown out there and wasn’t done with much finesse.
It was good enough to have me reading the second but only just.
It was good enough to have me reading the second but only just.
March 6, 2023
Parker and Luna
New world, strange magic and a mystery. Quick love story that turns into a story of murder and revenge. Hopefully, these two characters will figure it out. Good read.
New world, strange magic and a mystery. Quick love story that turns into a story of murder and revenge. Hopefully, these two characters will figure it out. Good read.
February 12, 2024
Another world
This book was a surprise,
I love the supernatural of other realms and beings in them.
Luna and Parker story is good, and I can't wait to see what happens.
I hope Luna finds out what her mother and Svyn did to Parker.
And I hope Luna and Parker be together
.
This book was a surprise,
I love the supernatural of other realms and beings in them.
Luna and Parker story is good, and I can't wait to see what happens.
I hope Luna finds out what her mother and Svyn did to Parker.
And I hope Luna and Parker be together
.
June 23, 2021
3.5 Stars
A good start to the series, the only problem for me is the multiple POV's towards end of the book.
But I'm looking forward to the next book in this series
A good start to the series, the only problem for me is the multiple POV's towards end of the book.
But I'm looking forward to the next book in this series
September 10, 2019
I really enjoyed the story. I like the character development. The narration was great. I'm jumping right in to book 2.
March 14, 2019
Ascension Part One.
Luna is trapped in a world of pain and isolation until her captor's nephew, Parker Stevens, returns from a mental institution. Parker has lived with the knowledge that he killed his mother when he was a child. Now that Parker is free, he is more lost than ever. The day the two meet is torture and pleasure mixed. Once Uncle G forces the two together for a night, Parker and Luna manifest powers that are strange and wonderful. However, secrets are layered one upon the other in their lives, families and heritages. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles in their way and find each other?
If you're looking for a dark fantasy story with strong elements of torture and a world parallel to our own, this is the book for you! Be aware that it is the first PART of the story, so pick up the next one quickly.
🎧AudiobookObsessionReviewer
Luna is trapped in a world of pain and isolation until her captor's nephew, Parker Stevens, returns from a mental institution. Parker has lived with the knowledge that he killed his mother when he was a child. Now that Parker is free, he is more lost than ever. The day the two meet is torture and pleasure mixed. Once Uncle G forces the two together for a night, Parker and Luna manifest powers that are strange and wonderful. However, secrets are layered one upon the other in their lives, families and heritages. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles in their way and find each other?
If you're looking for a dark fantasy story with strong elements of torture and a world parallel to our own, this is the book for you! Be aware that it is the first PART of the story, so pick up the next one quickly.
🎧AudiobookObsessionReviewer
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews