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Fall of The Ascendancy #1
Eve of Ascension
LIFE IN THE ASCENDANCY WAS NOT ALL THAT IT APPEARED TO BE...
Baxter Clarke grew up enjoying the loftiest comforts of the 12 cities, but a startling new connection disrupts the balance of his safe and sheltered life and puts him in a position he never dreamed possible.
With the fate of the Ascended attached to a device stolen from a government agency - and the help of an alluring young woman from a fringe society he has been programmed to fear - Baxter will run for his life to save his people from themselves and the very institution that promised to protect them.
Baxter Clarke grew up enjoying the loftiest comforts of the 12 cities, but a startling new connection disrupts the balance of his safe and sheltered life and puts him in a position he never dreamed possible.
With the fate of the Ascended attached to a device stolen from a government agency - and the help of an alluring young woman from a fringe society he has been programmed to fear - Baxter will run for his life to save his people from themselves and the very institution that promised to protect them.
- GenresScience Fiction
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2019
1 person is currently reading
9 people want to read
About the author
Daniel McMillan
12 books12 followersDaniel McMillan is the author of several Science Fiction novels and collaborative titles in other genres. Six of his books have become Amazon Top 100 Bestsellers, with three of them making the Top 10. He is a prolific writer and avid self-motivator.
Daniel doesn’t do things in small measure: he speaks multiple languages, plays several instruments and expresses his creativity through drawing, painting, sculpture and music.
He started studying science - focusing on physics - and spirituality at age 11 and was curious about the overlap in these disparate areas of study. Sci-Fi is his go-to, but he isn’t one to limit himself and enjoys exploring writing in multiple genres.
Dan is married to Tahera Yeasmin, inarguably one of his greatest accomplishments to date.
Visit https://www.vector11studio.com or https://books2read.com/rl/danielmcmil... to learn more.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 5, 2019
Life in the Ascendancy is a dog eat dog world, all while putting your best face forward. A manmade catastrophe winnowed out the “excess” and the elite rose to power, dangling the carrot of success, and a chance to get closer to “the top” of the heap. It is there that all of your dreams can come true and you will be the envy of all. But you know what they say about something that seems too good to be true…
Daniel McMillan’s EVE OF ASCENSION is a brilliantly horrific science fiction tale in a world of haves and have nots, a government who rewards excess for its own benefit. Along with the blind sheep, there are the rebels, the ones who see things as they are and they strive to take down corruption at its very foundations. One brilliant young man will discover that, although his world is near perfect, there is something missing, something not right, it will be the death of his father as a criminal that will turn the key to hidden truths, upsetting the view he always knew. What Baxter will find is the thrill of what reality could be, that what completes him is far beyond the walls of his controlled life. Can he survive the betrayal that will befall him?
Fascinating, disturbing and simply amazing writing makes this tale a powerhouse read and a solid foundation for a new series that promises to entertain while rooting out injustice as an unlikely hero is born!
This author holds nothing back and the story unfolds, slowly at first but reaches cruising speed and never lets up! A highly recommended hidden gem in the treasure chest of reading!
I received a complimentary review copy from Daniel McMillan!
Series: The Fall of the Ascendancy - Book 1
Publisher: Vector11 Studio (June 1, 2019)
Publication Date: June 1, 2019
Genre: Futuristic Dystopian
Print Length: 272 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Daniel McMillan’s EVE OF ASCENSION is a brilliantly horrific science fiction tale in a world of haves and have nots, a government who rewards excess for its own benefit. Along with the blind sheep, there are the rebels, the ones who see things as they are and they strive to take down corruption at its very foundations. One brilliant young man will discover that, although his world is near perfect, there is something missing, something not right, it will be the death of his father as a criminal that will turn the key to hidden truths, upsetting the view he always knew. What Baxter will find is the thrill of what reality could be, that what completes him is far beyond the walls of his controlled life. Can he survive the betrayal that will befall him?
Fascinating, disturbing and simply amazing writing makes this tale a powerhouse read and a solid foundation for a new series that promises to entertain while rooting out injustice as an unlikely hero is born!
This author holds nothing back and the story unfolds, slowly at first but reaches cruising speed and never lets up! A highly recommended hidden gem in the treasure chest of reading!
I received a complimentary review copy from Daniel McMillan!
Series: The Fall of the Ascendancy - Book 1
Publisher: Vector11 Studio (June 1, 2019)
Publication Date: June 1, 2019
Genre: Futuristic Dystopian
Print Length: 272 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 24, 2019
What Made Me Read It I was sent a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. The author described it as a dystopian sci-fi novel and the premise of the story sounded interesting: a technologically advanced society built on lies and one young man who discovers the truth and must decide what to do with it.
The Plot After the Great Cataclysm that scorched the planet and almost drove humanity to extinction, the governing elite built 12 domed cities and offered shelter and resources to anyone who settled in and pledged their loyalty to The Ascendancy, creating a new social order where the more a citizen contributes to the whole the more they ascend and enjoy the comforts and privileges offered. Those who chose to keep their freedom and live off the land instead were renamed the Sylvans, despised for their nonconformity to the elite and taken as slaves to run the waste and water treatment facilities that provide the Ascended with all their basic needs and amenities.
In the city of Enswell, Candace Clarke believes the purpose of life is to ascend as high as one can by whatever means necessary so your descendants will make it even further. Her husband's scientific discovery of the Gates gave the Clarke family prominence and her son's academic achievements and contributions will be the next step to reach even higher levels, if she plays her cards right. William Clarke is mostly devoted to his work and research on the Gates, but one chance encounter in his youth shocked him from his complacency when he discovered The Ascendancy had been lying to its citizens in order to maintain the status quo. Baxter has enjoyed the privileges and comforts of his family's position all his life and at the age of 26 is the youngest Ascended to achieve the Award of Excellence. But Baxter craves something real, meaningful experiences and organic feelings not dictated by computer protocols and algorithms.
In the village of Nylen, Shawan and Aellana Forander are members of the Luminants, an underground movement fighting to bring individuality back to the Ascended and end the tyranny of the Ascendancy. Even though they never pressured their children to join the dangerous life of the rebel movement, 22-year-old Raishann has fully embraced the cause and just started to go on Luminant missions with her parents. But 19-year-old Timoth is tired of being on the losing side and wants a better existence among the powerful and superior, with all the luxuries and safety provided by the Ascendancy - he wants to rise.
The Good "Eve of Ascension" is the first book in "The Fall of The Ascendancy" series, a dystopian sci-fi novel set in the distant future. After an asteroid collided with Earth causing massive destruction and drastically reducing the world population, the survivors split in two groups: the Ascended who lived in 12 technologically advanced domed cities under the rule of The Ascendancy, and the Sylvans - the people of the woods - who chose to live off the land in the wilderness, scavenging for lost technology and usable goods to trade. The novel follows two families living in this dystopian world: the Clarkes, a prestigious family in the ascendancy social structure - Candace is a firm believer of the reward system that governs The Ascendancy, but William started questioning the status quo after finding the truth behind their privileged existence and their son Baxter is about to come face to face with the Ascendancy's lies; and the Foranders, a Sylvan family and members of the Luminants, an underground movement bent on freeing both Sylvans and Ascended from the rule of the Ascendancy with the help of an insider named Shadaar - Shawan, Aellana and their daugther Raishann are fully committed to the cause but the younger son Timoth has serious misgivings, yearning for all the benefits given to the Ascended instead.
The world building is complex and the author paints a vivid description of both societies and their contrasting ways, beliefs and social structure: on one side the communal society of the Sylvans, living a simple and harsh life in the wild in mobile villages, where love is a free and personal choice and even parenting is a collective endeavor shared between all adults; on the other the Ascended, with all the technological advancements at their disposal but with their lives manipulated by false propaganda and mood stabilizers, where each individual has to fend for himself to get enough A-Points (ascension points) to climb up the social ladder and even love is prearranged by computer algorithms to maximize loyalty. The futuristic technology sounds believable with O-Bots (officer robots - killing machines in charge of security), augmentations (memory expansion, processing speed, visual and auditory enhancements, implanted device interfaces...), self-forming houses and wardrobe controlled by nanobots, and even though the idea of the Gates (portals that allow instantaneous travel between distant points) is used frequently in the sci-fi and fantasy genres the author still managed to give it a fresh twist. The narrative is fast-paced with plenty of thrilling action sequences that will keep you on the edge of your seat, specially in the second half of the book, and surprising plot twists.
The characters are 3-dimensional, realistic and with believable reactions. The author explores the thoughts, feelings and motivations of each of the various characters in depth: Candace who will stop at nothing to ascend; Baxter, torn between what he's been taught to believe all his life and the reality he's forced to face; Timoth who wants more than a life of poverty and fear, skeptical of the Sylvans' beliefs and envied of all the luxury enjoyed by the Ascended... even the secondary characters add to the story and help build the world of "Eve of Ascension" as we follow Laena Reisatra (a Sylvan girl who is taken during one of the Ascendancy's raids) during her captivity inside one of the Ascendancy's waste treatment facilities, and all the political shady maneuverings and backstabbing of Chancellor Marshall and his advisors Doyle Morgan and Michael Burke to ascend and maintain the status quo.
The Not So Good "Eve of Ascension" is a fascinating world and the plot is thrilling and engaging but the narrative suffers from too much exposition at times. It is a complex world and for the most part the author managed to present all the detailed information in a natural and organic way, but there are a few moments when it feels forced and repetitive. It's the reason the novel lost one star in the final rating.
I could go without the instalove between two of the main characters as well... but that's a personal quirk of mine, most readers will probably enjoy the plot device, it does serve its purpose in adding an extra level of conflict into the story.
Read the full review on: https://literaryportals.blogspot.com/...
Final Rating 4 of 5 stars. "Eve of Ascension" is the first installment in "The Fall of The Ascendancy" series, a dystopian sci-fi novel set in the distant future, with plenty of thrilling action sequences, plot twists but also thought-provoking moments. Recommended for those who enjoy futuristic stories about dystopian societies, political maneuvering and oppressive governments.
The Plot After the Great Cataclysm that scorched the planet and almost drove humanity to extinction, the governing elite built 12 domed cities and offered shelter and resources to anyone who settled in and pledged their loyalty to The Ascendancy, creating a new social order where the more a citizen contributes to the whole the more they ascend and enjoy the comforts and privileges offered. Those who chose to keep their freedom and live off the land instead were renamed the Sylvans, despised for their nonconformity to the elite and taken as slaves to run the waste and water treatment facilities that provide the Ascended with all their basic needs and amenities.
In the city of Enswell, Candace Clarke believes the purpose of life is to ascend as high as one can by whatever means necessary so your descendants will make it even further. Her husband's scientific discovery of the Gates gave the Clarke family prominence and her son's academic achievements and contributions will be the next step to reach even higher levels, if she plays her cards right. William Clarke is mostly devoted to his work and research on the Gates, but one chance encounter in his youth shocked him from his complacency when he discovered The Ascendancy had been lying to its citizens in order to maintain the status quo. Baxter has enjoyed the privileges and comforts of his family's position all his life and at the age of 26 is the youngest Ascended to achieve the Award of Excellence. But Baxter craves something real, meaningful experiences and organic feelings not dictated by computer protocols and algorithms.
In the village of Nylen, Shawan and Aellana Forander are members of the Luminants, an underground movement fighting to bring individuality back to the Ascended and end the tyranny of the Ascendancy. Even though they never pressured their children to join the dangerous life of the rebel movement, 22-year-old Raishann has fully embraced the cause and just started to go on Luminant missions with her parents. But 19-year-old Timoth is tired of being on the losing side and wants a better existence among the powerful and superior, with all the luxuries and safety provided by the Ascendancy - he wants to rise.
The Good "Eve of Ascension" is the first book in "The Fall of The Ascendancy" series, a dystopian sci-fi novel set in the distant future. After an asteroid collided with Earth causing massive destruction and drastically reducing the world population, the survivors split in two groups: the Ascended who lived in 12 technologically advanced domed cities under the rule of The Ascendancy, and the Sylvans - the people of the woods - who chose to live off the land in the wilderness, scavenging for lost technology and usable goods to trade. The novel follows two families living in this dystopian world: the Clarkes, a prestigious family in the ascendancy social structure - Candace is a firm believer of the reward system that governs The Ascendancy, but William started questioning the status quo after finding the truth behind their privileged existence and their son Baxter is about to come face to face with the Ascendancy's lies; and the Foranders, a Sylvan family and members of the Luminants, an underground movement bent on freeing both Sylvans and Ascended from the rule of the Ascendancy with the help of an insider named Shadaar - Shawan, Aellana and their daugther Raishann are fully committed to the cause but the younger son Timoth has serious misgivings, yearning for all the benefits given to the Ascended instead.
The world building is complex and the author paints a vivid description of both societies and their contrasting ways, beliefs and social structure: on one side the communal society of the Sylvans, living a simple and harsh life in the wild in mobile villages, where love is a free and personal choice and even parenting is a collective endeavor shared between all adults; on the other the Ascended, with all the technological advancements at their disposal but with their lives manipulated by false propaganda and mood stabilizers, where each individual has to fend for himself to get enough A-Points (ascension points) to climb up the social ladder and even love is prearranged by computer algorithms to maximize loyalty. The futuristic technology sounds believable with O-Bots (officer robots - killing machines in charge of security), augmentations (memory expansion, processing speed, visual and auditory enhancements, implanted device interfaces...), self-forming houses and wardrobe controlled by nanobots, and even though the idea of the Gates (portals that allow instantaneous travel between distant points) is used frequently in the sci-fi and fantasy genres the author still managed to give it a fresh twist. The narrative is fast-paced with plenty of thrilling action sequences that will keep you on the edge of your seat, specially in the second half of the book, and surprising plot twists.
The characters are 3-dimensional, realistic and with believable reactions. The author explores the thoughts, feelings and motivations of each of the various characters in depth: Candace who will stop at nothing to ascend; Baxter, torn between what he's been taught to believe all his life and the reality he's forced to face; Timoth who wants more than a life of poverty and fear, skeptical of the Sylvans' beliefs and envied of all the luxury enjoyed by the Ascended... even the secondary characters add to the story and help build the world of "Eve of Ascension" as we follow Laena Reisatra (a Sylvan girl who is taken during one of the Ascendancy's raids) during her captivity inside one of the Ascendancy's waste treatment facilities, and all the political shady maneuverings and backstabbing of Chancellor Marshall and his advisors Doyle Morgan and Michael Burke to ascend and maintain the status quo.
The Not So Good "Eve of Ascension" is a fascinating world and the plot is thrilling and engaging but the narrative suffers from too much exposition at times. It is a complex world and for the most part the author managed to present all the detailed information in a natural and organic way, but there are a few moments when it feels forced and repetitive. It's the reason the novel lost one star in the final rating.
I could go without the instalove between two of the main characters as well... but that's a personal quirk of mine, most readers will probably enjoy the plot device, it does serve its purpose in adding an extra level of conflict into the story.
Read the full review on: https://literaryportals.blogspot.com/...
Final Rating 4 of 5 stars. "Eve of Ascension" is the first installment in "The Fall of The Ascendancy" series, a dystopian sci-fi novel set in the distant future, with plenty of thrilling action sequences, plot twists but also thought-provoking moments. Recommended for those who enjoy futuristic stories about dystopian societies, political maneuvering and oppressive governments.
August 14, 2019
3.75 Stars - Review Coming Soon!
July 15, 2019
McMillan, Daniel. Eve of Ascension (The Fall of the Ascendancy Book 1)
Daniel McMillan has taken a leap forward in his prolific publishing career with the writing of ‘Eve of Ascension’.
This dystopian adventure begins in a city protected by a plasma force dome where human nature has resurfaced in the form of ‘The Ascension’; a series of circles of achievement graduating upward toward the centre. Residents spend their lives striving to gain ascendancy to higher circles. Candace and husband William with son Baxter are introduced living in luxury in the high 70th circle. Humankind, before an apocalyptic event when an asteroid had impacted Earth, had lived for individual personal gains and it had nearly led them to extinction. Baxter was reasonably sure that was not what those people wanted for themselves, despite having created it.
The dome city of Enswell is one of twelve spaced around the planet. In surrounding country, survivors of the apocalypse, the Sylvans, exist in primitive conditions. An underground movement started within the Sylvans that called itself the Luminants. They subverted the Ascendancy whenever they could, and relayed messages to the people who resided under it.
McMillan guides the reader into a fascinating future world where human ambitions and personalities drive the plot in a way not expected in science fiction; as the plot develops there is more than enough to keep even a sceptical science fiction buff glued to the pages. An engaging tale of actions and counter actions which kept me reading. His professional writing style reflects his consummate skill, as the story nourishes imagination.
I found this book a believable insight to a possible future world. It will join my digital library of classics. It reminded me in some ways of George Orwell’s 1984, but with an updated view of the possibilities of electronics and mechanics.
This excerpt will indicate Daniel’s style; ‘She realized now that as much as she had always felt oppressed by the Ascendancy, it was ultimately the Ascended who had to endure the brunt of their injustice. They didn’t suffer because of the way they lived; that was an illusion. What hurt them most was the fact that they didn’t realize they were suffering. As she was taught to rebel, they had been trained to conform and to hide their pain with pills, entertainment, and comfort. The Ascended shouldn’t be seen as separate from the Sylvans. The real distinctions weren’t because of the technology they had or the comforts they enjoyed. The differences that mattered existed because of the way those people were forced to live, and the ideas that were mandatory for them to believe.’
Readers in many genres will be captivated.
Daniel McMillan has taken a leap forward in his prolific publishing career with the writing of ‘Eve of Ascension’.
This dystopian adventure begins in a city protected by a plasma force dome where human nature has resurfaced in the form of ‘The Ascension’; a series of circles of achievement graduating upward toward the centre. Residents spend their lives striving to gain ascendancy to higher circles. Candace and husband William with son Baxter are introduced living in luxury in the high 70th circle. Humankind, before an apocalyptic event when an asteroid had impacted Earth, had lived for individual personal gains and it had nearly led them to extinction. Baxter was reasonably sure that was not what those people wanted for themselves, despite having created it.
The dome city of Enswell is one of twelve spaced around the planet. In surrounding country, survivors of the apocalypse, the Sylvans, exist in primitive conditions. An underground movement started within the Sylvans that called itself the Luminants. They subverted the Ascendancy whenever they could, and relayed messages to the people who resided under it.
McMillan guides the reader into a fascinating future world where human ambitions and personalities drive the plot in a way not expected in science fiction; as the plot develops there is more than enough to keep even a sceptical science fiction buff glued to the pages. An engaging tale of actions and counter actions which kept me reading. His professional writing style reflects his consummate skill, as the story nourishes imagination.
I found this book a believable insight to a possible future world. It will join my digital library of classics. It reminded me in some ways of George Orwell’s 1984, but with an updated view of the possibilities of electronics and mechanics.
This excerpt will indicate Daniel’s style; ‘She realized now that as much as she had always felt oppressed by the Ascendancy, it was ultimately the Ascended who had to endure the brunt of their injustice. They didn’t suffer because of the way they lived; that was an illusion. What hurt them most was the fact that they didn’t realize they were suffering. As she was taught to rebel, they had been trained to conform and to hide their pain with pills, entertainment, and comfort. The Ascended shouldn’t be seen as separate from the Sylvans. The real distinctions weren’t because of the technology they had or the comforts they enjoyed. The differences that mattered existed because of the way those people were forced to live, and the ideas that were mandatory for them to believe.’
Readers in many genres will be captivated.
August 21, 2019
=====Review date 2019-07-02 (novel launch date 2019-06-01) Review posted 2019-08-20=====
"Eve of Ascension" by Daniel McMillan is his first novel, an intriguing science fiction dystopian composition which describes a clash between the future or seemingly futuristic society and the descended predecessors of that society.
McMillan has done an excellent job of creatively describing his characters, giving each individual realistically aligned personalities that draw in the reader and invite empathy. From the first catastrophic event (Shawan's heroic attempt to recover Shadaar's artifact...is he successful and will he survive?) until the cliff-hanger ending (hurry up, sequel!). I particularly found myself reacting with more than the usual emotions when reading about the female antagonist, an opportunist entitled mother who uses 'family and maternal nurturing' rationale to justify her morally vagrant lust for ascension.
Eve of Ascension is well worth the listed price and definitely calls for a future as a television series. In the same way I enjoyed Jean M. Auel's 'Earth's Childrens' series, Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale's 'Back to the Future' Screenplay, and Jason Rothenberg's 'The 100' series, I absolutely loved reading Daniel McMillan's 'Eve of Ascension!'
-Thank you, Daniel, for inviting me to preview the ARC of EoA! :) - Lisa
"Eve of Ascension" by Daniel McMillan is his first novel, an intriguing science fiction dystopian composition which describes a clash between the future or seemingly futuristic society and the descended predecessors of that society.
McMillan has done an excellent job of creatively describing his characters, giving each individual realistically aligned personalities that draw in the reader and invite empathy. From the first catastrophic event (Shawan's heroic attempt to recover Shadaar's artifact...is he successful and will he survive?) until the cliff-hanger ending (hurry up, sequel!). I particularly found myself reacting with more than the usual emotions when reading about the female antagonist, an opportunist entitled mother who uses 'family and maternal nurturing' rationale to justify her morally vagrant lust for ascension.
Eve of Ascension is well worth the listed price and definitely calls for a future as a television series. In the same way I enjoyed Jean M. Auel's 'Earth's Childrens' series, Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale's 'Back to the Future' Screenplay, and Jason Rothenberg's 'The 100' series, I absolutely loved reading Daniel McMillan's 'Eve of Ascension!'
-Thank you, Daniel, for inviting me to preview the ARC of EoA! :) - Lisa
April 28, 2021
The domed and the doomed?
This Post-Apocalyptic Science Fiction read draws you into the plight of two opposing lifestyles of the remaining humans on Earth. Those who are controlled at every level by the Ascendency (government) but "enjoy" a secure, comfortable life within the domes and those who are constantly running for their lives who live without (doomed?).
It might seem straightforward in its tale, the law and the lawless, but trust me it plunges much deeper and engages the reader to sympathize with the people inside and outside those imposing domes. And plunged you are, dear reader, from the first moment you begin to read, the stage is set and the stakes are high!
Besides the wonderful science/sci-fi concepts the author describes with the technology and world building, there is a varying cast of characters. Some are sure of what they want and know. Some are questioning and of course there are surprises when a few reverse course and the story gives you one more emotional tumble. Loved it! At the very end, we understand the title's meaning but I will not give any spoilers. You'll need to discover it for yourself!
This Post-Apocalyptic Science Fiction read draws you into the plight of two opposing lifestyles of the remaining humans on Earth. Those who are controlled at every level by the Ascendency (government) but "enjoy" a secure, comfortable life within the domes and those who are constantly running for their lives who live without (doomed?).
It might seem straightforward in its tale, the law and the lawless, but trust me it plunges much deeper and engages the reader to sympathize with the people inside and outside those imposing domes. And plunged you are, dear reader, from the first moment you begin to read, the stage is set and the stakes are high!
Besides the wonderful science/sci-fi concepts the author describes with the technology and world building, there is a varying cast of characters. Some are sure of what they want and know. Some are questioning and of course there are surprises when a few reverse course and the story gives you one more emotional tumble. Loved it! At the very end, we understand the title's meaning but I will not give any spoilers. You'll need to discover it for yourself!
October 7, 2019
Eve of Ascension is a gripping story filled with innovative technology and expertly developed characters. The book follows several characters who's stories eventually come together in an exciting way. With clever plot twists and characters you get to know well, this makes for a great book by an up-and-coming author! Eve of Ascension is the first book in this series. I am looking forward to reading the next story.
May 27, 2020
Interestingly dystopian
McMillan pens a grand story in Eve of Ascension. I haven't read anything from this author before, and I really enjoyed this story. The characters were creative and unique, and fit within their world. This author brings the stories to life. The pace of the story was perfect for the plot and action of teh characters. The story brings in the believable, even if almost impossible. This story takes the reader on an enjoyable journey. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. This world was simply magical and mystical, and was definitely character driven. A unique look into the future. I look forward to reading more by this author. This book is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
McMillan pens a grand story in Eve of Ascension. I haven't read anything from this author before, and I really enjoyed this story. The characters were creative and unique, and fit within their world. This author brings the stories to life. The pace of the story was perfect for the plot and action of teh characters. The story brings in the believable, even if almost impossible. This story takes the reader on an enjoyable journey. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. This world was simply magical and mystical, and was definitely character driven. A unique look into the future. I look forward to reading more by this author. This book is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
March 4, 2021
Fantastic read! The story was exciting, fast paced and full of suspense. I was drawn in with the different story lines of the characters and how they all came together around this dystopian society and the futuristic world of the Ascended. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
November 2, 2019
Did a really good job of making me hate and love different characters
April 24, 2021
My first book in this genre... I loved it and can't wait to read the next one in the series. I love the whole idea behind the book, the challenges of the Sylvans and the conflicts. Loved it!
May 12, 2019
From the beginning, I found myself engrossed in Daniel McMillan's novel “Eve of Ascension”. The parallels of greed and selfishness present in real life are evident in a refreshingly futuristic yet still familiar setting. The plot twists are unexpected, which keeps you engaged and the suspenseful ending has now left me impatiently waiting for the next book in the series.
May 31, 2019
Awesome read! Amazing plot. An original idea that is true to the science fiction genre. Fascinating characters you love and/or hate. Plot twists you don't expect. Realistic science and also imaginary stretches into the future are all part of this novel. Daniel McMillan has woven a fantastic story that engages the reader in a society that, while being dystopian, is all too familiar at times. Great book! Can't wait for part 2.
Read
December 28, 2021Daniel McMillan crafts a brilliant science fiction novel that captures the devastating consequences that arise from an abuse of government power. Through a cast of diverse characters, the reader sees the world through the eyes of the Sylvans, Luminants, and the Ascended. Their points of view are thought provoking in their honesty, allowing the negative and positive elements of human psychology to shine throughout the pages.
The Ascendancy uses oppression, fear mongering and a reward system to force the citizens to strive to advance through different levels of society to keep their stronghold over their Ascended. Dan parallels class systems and their impacts on an individual and societal level, which makes the story even more riveting in its authenticity. The story is beautiful as it highlights resilience and the natural human desire for truth and freedom.
Eve of Ascension had me engaged every step of the way with its genuine characters, action scenes and plot twists. I cannot wait for the next installment of this series!
The Ascendancy uses oppression, fear mongering and a reward system to force the citizens to strive to advance through different levels of society to keep their stronghold over their Ascended. Dan parallels class systems and their impacts on an individual and societal level, which makes the story even more riveting in its authenticity. The story is beautiful as it highlights resilience and the natural human desire for truth and freedom.
Eve of Ascension had me engaged every step of the way with its genuine characters, action scenes and plot twists. I cannot wait for the next installment of this series!
April 25, 2019
“Eve of Ascension” by Daniel McMillan’s sci-if novel takes you to the outer limits of your imagination.
The would be world rulers known as the “Ascendency” struggle to keep control of the remnants of a resistance group, the “Sylvan’s”. The latter are at a distinct disadvantage in their attempts to reach the people who now live within the cities, trying to make them come to terms with the fnact that what they see as “normality” is not as it seems.
Who will prevail in a world now under the control of self acclaimed rulers who use their advanced technologies to keep their people from realizing that they are the result of a conspiracy rather than being protected?
The characters from both sides are very compelling and engaging. The action is fast paced and unpredictable. The turn of events quickly captivates the reader’s interest. Looking forward to the sequel!
The would be world rulers known as the “Ascendency” struggle to keep control of the remnants of a resistance group, the “Sylvan’s”. The latter are at a distinct disadvantage in their attempts to reach the people who now live within the cities, trying to make them come to terms with the fnact that what they see as “normality” is not as it seems.
Who will prevail in a world now under the control of self acclaimed rulers who use their advanced technologies to keep their people from realizing that they are the result of a conspiracy rather than being protected?
The characters from both sides are very compelling and engaging. The action is fast paced and unpredictable. The turn of events quickly captivates the reader’s interest. Looking forward to the sequel!
December 20, 2020
Eve of Ascension is the first of two books in a science fiction series by Daniel McMillan.
A very uplifting experience depicting the struggles between two groups. One, the Ascended who took over after a catastrophic event almost destroyed the earth. Two, the Sylvans who live outside the Dome created by the Ascended. These two factions endeavor to maintain their own way of life.
With battles that keep you involved with the twists and turns of events, to the description of new, exciting and intriguing ideas of innovations in living conditions and ammenities in the future, Daniel keeps us emotionally invested.
Heroes and antagonists on both sides keep us guessing as to the outcome until the very end. Very strong characters and good character developement
A fast paced page-turning book.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely! Cannot wait to read the sequel.
A very uplifting experience depicting the struggles between two groups. One, the Ascended who took over after a catastrophic event almost destroyed the earth. Two, the Sylvans who live outside the Dome created by the Ascended. These two factions endeavor to maintain their own way of life.
With battles that keep you involved with the twists and turns of events, to the description of new, exciting and intriguing ideas of innovations in living conditions and ammenities in the future, Daniel keeps us emotionally invested.
Heroes and antagonists on both sides keep us guessing as to the outcome until the very end. Very strong characters and good character developement
A fast paced page-turning book.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely! Cannot wait to read the sequel.
May 9, 2019
Daniel McMillan’s Sci-Fi novel “Eve of Ascension” plunges you into a world where the main character is
easily on the road to a very comfortable life, only to come across information that has him wondering if
everything in his cozy world is really as it seems.
Between gunfights, high-tech, romance, and a series of delightfully unexpected plot twists and turns,
Daniel has you fully engaged as you join the characters in this page-turning, action packed thriller!
I very much enjoyed this book and recommend it highly for anyone who would enjoy a thoughtful and
fun look at a future full of perils and potential greatness!
easily on the road to a very comfortable life, only to come across information that has him wondering if
everything in his cozy world is really as it seems.
Between gunfights, high-tech, romance, and a series of delightfully unexpected plot twists and turns,
Daniel has you fully engaged as you join the characters in this page-turning, action packed thriller!
I very much enjoyed this book and recommend it highly for anyone who would enjoy a thoughtful and
fun look at a future full of perils and potential greatness!
August 5, 2019
The author, Daniel, has built an amazing and imaginative world, and does well in bringing the reader into this world.
The science behind the story is well explained, characters are very relatable and locations and sequences described beautifully.
Overall a great read, leaves the reader wanting more.
Highly recommend.
The science behind the story is well explained, characters are very relatable and locations and sequences described beautifully.
Overall a great read, leaves the reader wanting more.
Highly recommend.
September 19, 2019
This book has fascinating concepts and super interesting characters. There's furniture that rearranges itself when you're having company over (like why have we not invented this yet in the real world, it would make life so much easier?) and makeup that adjusts automatically when the lighting changes or even better, when the person wearing it cries. (Seriously, we need this now, ok?)
The idea of an ascending order of cities is also interesting: most people start out in the outer cities, and as they advance socially, they're moved up into the inner cities. It can take generations for a family to move from one city to another, and if you screw up your chances, forget it.
Meanwhile, the Sylvans live outside the city, frustrating the Ascendancy (the central government) whenever they can, keeping hope of the resistance alive no matter the cost.
Right away, I was hooked: a rebel fighter was surrounded by deadly robots in a jungle, and his chances didn't look good. The story got off to a bang.
Then I was mesmerized by the two different spheres: the city-life of Baxter and his friends, plush with the latest technology and controlled by the government at every turn; and the rugged life of Raishann and her family, who live in much more humble circumstances but consider themselves free in a way the city people aren't. They even speak differently, using slang rather than highly polished, almost manneristic phrases.
So in the categories of freaking cool concepts, solid world-building, and really awesome, diverse characters (marry me, Laena), this book scores top marks.
But I had a problem with its style, and that kept me from giving it top marks all around. I'm a writer myself and a critic, so it could be that I just have a nitpicky disposition. I also enjoy thinking about how I would rewrite a book/play/movie to make it better. It's one of my favorite past-times.
If I were rewriting this book, I'd use a lot more active voice and follow the time-honored "show don't tell" rule. There were a lot of passages that read along the lines of: "Lila asked him what was on his mind and Baxter said that he wanted to go to the store, Lila agreed with him but pointed out that it was late, which caused Baxter to feel guilty and say they could go tomorrow."
Why tell us what the characters are saying? Why can't they just, like, say it?
Other times, we'd be told what a character was thinking when it would have been more effective to show us what they were thinking by the way they acted or by something they said.
I feel like this got in the way of character development and made it hard for us to get truly attached to the characters--which is sad because the author has put together a stellar cast here. There are some really interesting personalities and wide-ranging perspectives. So yeah.
At the end of the day, great story, fun characters, just needs some polishing up in the writing department. That's something that's easily overcome, and as the ideas and concepts are still super cool, I'm excited to see what this author gets up to next.
The idea of an ascending order of cities is also interesting: most people start out in the outer cities, and as they advance socially, they're moved up into the inner cities. It can take generations for a family to move from one city to another, and if you screw up your chances, forget it.
Meanwhile, the Sylvans live outside the city, frustrating the Ascendancy (the central government) whenever they can, keeping hope of the resistance alive no matter the cost.
Right away, I was hooked: a rebel fighter was surrounded by deadly robots in a jungle, and his chances didn't look good. The story got off to a bang.
Then I was mesmerized by the two different spheres: the city-life of Baxter and his friends, plush with the latest technology and controlled by the government at every turn; and the rugged life of Raishann and her family, who live in much more humble circumstances but consider themselves free in a way the city people aren't. They even speak differently, using slang rather than highly polished, almost manneristic phrases.
So in the categories of freaking cool concepts, solid world-building, and really awesome, diverse characters (marry me, Laena), this book scores top marks.
But I had a problem with its style, and that kept me from giving it top marks all around. I'm a writer myself and a critic, so it could be that I just have a nitpicky disposition. I also enjoy thinking about how I would rewrite a book/play/movie to make it better. It's one of my favorite past-times.
If I were rewriting this book, I'd use a lot more active voice and follow the time-honored "show don't tell" rule. There were a lot of passages that read along the lines of: "Lila asked him what was on his mind and Baxter said that he wanted to go to the store, Lila agreed with him but pointed out that it was late, which caused Baxter to feel guilty and say they could go tomorrow."
Why tell us what the characters are saying? Why can't they just, like, say it?
Other times, we'd be told what a character was thinking when it would have been more effective to show us what they were thinking by the way they acted or by something they said.
I feel like this got in the way of character development and made it hard for us to get truly attached to the characters--which is sad because the author has put together a stellar cast here. There are some really interesting personalities and wide-ranging perspectives. So yeah.
At the end of the day, great story, fun characters, just needs some polishing up in the writing department. That's something that's easily overcome, and as the ideas and concepts are still super cool, I'm excited to see what this author gets up to next.
September 28, 2019
The book starts with a chapter that describes the history of the world, the way the apocalypse happens and how people deal with it. Usually, I don't like that kind of info dump, but for this story it just ... works. :) After the world basically ends, there were not many people left and in that time new political system rise. Ascension builds 12 cities all over the world, the cities were gated, even got dome later on. Its purpose was to keep people safe from the outside, for a small price. There are still some people left on the outside, living in the wild, on the constant lookout from the ascension. The story is masterfully woven between both worlds, neither one perfect...
My favorite part about the story was the setting, the explanation of how it all happened and the world described and also... I love all the cool technologies. :) It's one of those books that are very hard to put down. :)
received from Author
My favorite part about the story was the setting, the explanation of how it all happened and the world described and also... I love all the cool technologies. :) It's one of those books that are very hard to put down. :)
received from Author
April 6, 2022
Good story
Eve of Ascension is reminiscent of part Hunger Games and part Divergent series. The start of an exciting dystopian where class and where you live are everything. The story is chock-full of rich details that any Sci-Fi fan will enjoy. The story follows characters like Raishann and Baxter and how this class system affects their life. The story ends with a hint of what will come in Daniel McMillan’s next book in the Ascendancy universe. Looking forward to reading more of this series.
Eve of Ascension is reminiscent of part Hunger Games and part Divergent series. The start of an exciting dystopian where class and where you live are everything. The story is chock-full of rich details that any Sci-Fi fan will enjoy. The story follows characters like Raishann and Baxter and how this class system affects their life. The story ends with a hint of what will come in Daniel McMillan’s next book in the Ascendancy universe. Looking forward to reading more of this series.
October 1, 2019
Daniel Macmillan’s writing is impeccable and descriptive. The book is easy to read, and with his crisp writing, I could imagine the scenes with no effort.
Its sci-fi meets thriller. The story is captivating and keeps you hooked from the start of the book. What I admire is the science fiction part is that it’s believable. It is a plausible projection of the future taken from the present day. The elements are descriptive throughout the book. The technology is futuristic and is incredibly fascinating.
One of the other things I liked are the characters. They have a background. They have depth and they have everything to understand their motivation.
My verdict is 4 stars. It’s a brilliant story with incredible and imaginative settings. In fact, I am looking for the next book in the series, and for someone who always avoided the dystopian genre, that says a lot.
Thank you, Daniel Macmillan, for giving me the complimentary book and introducing me to this wonderful genre.
For detailed review visit https://ideasflyhigh.wordpress.com/2019/10/01/eve-of-ascension-a-book-review/
Its sci-fi meets thriller. The story is captivating and keeps you hooked from the start of the book. What I admire is the science fiction part is that it’s believable. It is a plausible projection of the future taken from the present day. The elements are descriptive throughout the book. The technology is futuristic and is incredibly fascinating.
One of the other things I liked are the characters. They have a background. They have depth and they have everything to understand their motivation.
My verdict is 4 stars. It’s a brilliant story with incredible and imaginative settings. In fact, I am looking for the next book in the series, and for someone who always avoided the dystopian genre, that says a lot.
Thank you, Daniel Macmillan, for giving me the complimentary book and introducing me to this wonderful genre.
For detailed review visit https://ideasflyhigh.wordpress.com/2019/10/01/eve-of-ascension-a-book-review/
November 10, 2021
Daniel McMillan's writing is accessible but not simple, which allowed me to easily sink into the story. The character dynamics are strong and the society of the Ascendancy captivated me from chapter one. I am not a Sci-Fi reader, but Eve of Ascension might convert me.
August 18, 2019
The Ascendency wants the residents of its domed cities to "rise" -- to invent and achieve. But at what cost? An interesting premise and plot make up for some awkward writing and flat characters.
July 25, 2021
I really liked it.
March 24, 2021
This book had some really interesting sci-fi concepts. The characters were interesting and had their own struggles and stories. Sometimes their motivations were a little unbelievable, but the pace was fast and the story engaging. Some of the scenes were well written to evoke emotion. Overall a good read.
August 26, 2019
To be absolutely honest, I was tempted to downgrade this to only two stars. But that would have been way, way too harsh. So why the temptation to be cruel? I shall tell you but first let me give you the (many and excellent) positives:
This is one hell of cracking story that rattles along at a good and exciting pace. The characters, although just a smidgen two-dimensional in places, were well enough drawn for me to invest in and care about. And there was no 'he/she's a goodie or he/she's a baddie'. Even the traitors (I won't spoil it by giving away their names) had their redeeming moments - well, two of them, anyway. I wasn't over-keen on the way Mr McMillan has structured the chapters, though. Each one is broken up into more sections than you can count. It seemed I'd only read a few paragraphs before the dreaded fleuron appeared and we were off and away to somewhere else. But then that is a subjective observation; others may love the way it helps keep the excellent plot barrelling along at a breathtaking pace.
Were I to rate the book on the story alone, it would be worth at least four stars.
But I must now address the negatives:
First, there's the clunky narrative. Too often it felt as though the author was struggling to find a fitting word to describe the action. While I appreciate that the intention could have been to avoid slipping into cliche, it was an oft-repeated discordant note that spoiled the experience.
Secondly, I have to address one of my pet hates; the lack of contractions in conversational text. You know what I mean; "I do not know how I am going to go on living," instead of, "I don't know how I'm going to go on living." People always use contractions when they speak - unless they are Data from TNG. Perhaps my palate is oversensitive, but it really detracts from the emotion of the character, not to mention their realism.
Overcritical? perhaps, but I don't think so. I really wanted to be generous with my rating because the story on its own genuinely deserves it. Maybe that's why I was so disappointed with its shortcomings.
The book is billed as #1 in a series and finishes with a tantalising setup for #2. Would I buy the sequel if it eventually appears? Absolutely, I would!
This is one hell of cracking story that rattles along at a good and exciting pace. The characters, although just a smidgen two-dimensional in places, were well enough drawn for me to invest in and care about. And there was no 'he/she's a goodie or he/she's a baddie'. Even the traitors (I won't spoil it by giving away their names) had their redeeming moments - well, two of them, anyway. I wasn't over-keen on the way Mr McMillan has structured the chapters, though. Each one is broken up into more sections than you can count. It seemed I'd only read a few paragraphs before the dreaded fleuron appeared and we were off and away to somewhere else. But then that is a subjective observation; others may love the way it helps keep the excellent plot barrelling along at a breathtaking pace.
Were I to rate the book on the story alone, it would be worth at least four stars.
But I must now address the negatives:
First, there's the clunky narrative. Too often it felt as though the author was struggling to find a fitting word to describe the action. While I appreciate that the intention could have been to avoid slipping into cliche, it was an oft-repeated discordant note that spoiled the experience.
Secondly, I have to address one of my pet hates; the lack of contractions in conversational text. You know what I mean; "I do not know how I am going to go on living," instead of, "I don't know how I'm going to go on living." People always use contractions when they speak - unless they are Data from TNG. Perhaps my palate is oversensitive, but it really detracts from the emotion of the character, not to mention their realism.
Overcritical? perhaps, but I don't think so. I really wanted to be generous with my rating because the story on its own genuinely deserves it. Maybe that's why I was so disappointed with its shortcomings.
The book is billed as #1 in a series and finishes with a tantalising setup for #2. Would I buy the sequel if it eventually appears? Absolutely, I would!
May 31, 2019
I was fortunate enough to be able to preview this novel. Well paced, wets ones anticipation. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and look forward to the sequel.
Eve of Ascension truly is a good read! Thank you Dan ( now get to work on the next one!)
Eve of Ascension truly is a good read! Thank you Dan ( now get to work on the next one!)
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