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Rule of the Council #1
Blood Ascension
She will teach them the meaning of fear—it will be the last thing they learn.
Michiko Nakatomi—an ancient vampire and leader of the Dark Council—is missing. After she gave up control of the blood blades—weapons designed to destroy supernaturals—the Dark Council challenged Michiko’s leadership…and her right to exist.
Rising tensions within the alliance of vampires, mages, and weres are threatening to tear the Dark Council apart. Some within the Council feel it’s time for supernaturals to step out of the shadows and take what’s rightfully theirs by invoking the Blood Protocol—an ancient ritual created to eliminate mankind.
Alone, Michiko must face overwhelming odds, bitter betrayals, and unrelenting assassins to prevent the Dark Council from plunging the world into another Supernatural War—one that could destroy them all.
96 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2020
314 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Orlando A. Sanchez
105 books590 followersOrlando Sanchez has been writing ever since his teens when he was immersed in creating scenarios for playing Dungeon and Dragons with his friends every weekend. An avid reader, his influences are too numerous to list here. Some of the most prominent are: J.R.R. Tolkien, Jim Butcher, Kat Richardson, Terry Brooks, Piers Anthony, Lee Child, George Lucas, Andrew Vachss, and Barry Eisler to name a few in no particular order.
The worlds of his books are urban settings with a twist of the paranormal lurking just behind the scenes and generous doses of magic, martial arts, and mayhem.
Aside from writing, he holds a 2nd and 3rd Dan in two distinct styles of Karate. If not training, he is studying some aspect of the martial arts or martial arts philosophy.
He currently resides in Queens, NY with his family and can often be found in the local Starbucks where most of his writing is done.
Please visit his site at: www.OrlandoASanchez.com for more information about his books and upcoming releases.
The worlds of his books are urban settings with a twist of the paranormal lurking just behind the scenes and generous doses of magic, martial arts, and mayhem.
Aside from writing, he holds a 2nd and 3rd Dan in two distinct styles of Karate. If not training, he is studying some aspect of the martial arts or martial arts philosophy.
He currently resides in Queens, NY with his family and can often be found in the local Starbucks where most of his writing is done.
Please visit his site at: www.OrlandoASanchez.com for more information about his books and upcoming releases.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
September 6, 2025
Entertaining Sc-fi listening🎧
This kindle ebook novella is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 1 of 3
This Sc-fi world 🌐 is stranger I have listened to a number of Orlando A. Sanchez and this was the first I did not connect with!😮 I will continue the next book!
I would recommend you give this novella and author a try not very book connects. 😜😉 2025 🎶🌜
This kindle ebook novella is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 1 of 3
This Sc-fi world 🌐 is stranger I have listened to a number of Orlando A. Sanchez and this was the first I did not connect with!😮 I will continue the next book!
I would recommend you give this novella and author a try not very book connects. 😜😉 2025 🎶🌜
July 10, 2022
3.75*
I enjoyed this one (a spin-off from the Montage and Strong series) it features the intriguing Michiko Nakatomi ex-Director of the Dark Council and Simons girlfriend.
I’m hoping this series fills in the gaps. It ends on a cliffhanger but the next book is out so I’m moving straight onto that.
I enjoyed this one (a spin-off from the Montage and Strong series) it features the intriguing Michiko Nakatomi ex-Director of the Dark Council and Simons girlfriend.
I’m hoping this series fills in the gaps. It ends on a cliffhanger but the next book is out so I’m moving straight onto that.
March 21, 2020
Michiko, still the absentee leader of the Dark Council, continues to be on the run from the organization while pursuing her own agenda. But, the pressure mounts as those who wish to take over and usher in an age as supernatural overlords of the world send out expendable assets to track her, setting traps towards removing her from the board. With her #1, and a seemingly unlikely cameo, she re-educates them on why she's a legend while moving to thwart their plans and save the world from undue carnage.
An absolutely fun & thrilling ride, packed with action and unintentional (for her) humor.
An absolutely fun & thrilling ride, packed with action and unintentional (for her) humor.
August 16, 2020
It is nice to see Chi in action. Evil cliff-hanger. I want to know more about how Chi and Strong met and what bond they really have. It sounds like it is more than just love but literally something magical.
March 17, 2020
Michiko is back to get the Dark Council straightened out with her enforcer, Byako. Both are deadly fighters and their enemies are mounting. A rare blade is used by the enemy and Michiko has no idea where it could have come from. The Council has a very old and influential vampire who is try to go back to the old ways which was when humans were used as cattle and the others were killed off. There are battles, that Michiko is drawn into with death and bloodshed. Montague and are mentioned. Stryker, the last Night Warren makes an appearance as does Michiko's brother, Ken. We are left with a cliffhanger for sure, so I am ''chomping at the bit'' until the 2nd book makes it's appearance. Definitely worth reading
March 17, 2020
NEVER mess with someone's Chi...
NOTE: This is only the first installment so hang tight when you get to the end...
The leader of the Dark Council has been missing for weeks--leadership is going down a dark path that will ultimately lead the supernatural world into a place of no return. In this book written in the Montague and Strong universe, Michiko, the ancient vampire and missing leader of the Dark Council tells us her story and takes us on the journey to try and stop the insanity that has overtaken the Council. Friends and enemies alike are quickly reminded that Chi is not just a very old vampire. She is the Reaping Wind--and no can stand against that force of nature. Grab your copy and get comfy!
NOTE: This is only the first installment so hang tight when you get to the end...
The leader of the Dark Council has been missing for weeks--leadership is going down a dark path that will ultimately lead the supernatural world into a place of no return. In this book written in the Montague and Strong universe, Michiko, the ancient vampire and missing leader of the Dark Council tells us her story and takes us on the journey to try and stop the insanity that has overtaken the Council. Friends and enemies alike are quickly reminded that Chi is not just a very old vampire. She is the Reaping Wind--and no can stand against that force of nature. Grab your copy and get comfy!
March 17, 2020
This is a 3 part story, with this being part one.
Since Michiko has been gone tensions within the Dark Council members have been rising. She is being attacked from different directions, but the assassins hunting her may find they are the ones to die. There doesn't seem to be much time for Michiko to stop a supernatural war from happening.
I enjoyed the writing style and dialogue between the characters, the wit & snark it will have you smiling at times. There are mentions of others in the Montague & Simon world even if they haven't made appearances...yet! The book doesn't exactly end with a cliff hanger but with more of a hook to make you want the next book. Good storyline to this first book.
Since Michiko has been gone tensions within the Dark Council members have been rising. She is being attacked from different directions, but the assassins hunting her may find they are the ones to die. There doesn't seem to be much time for Michiko to stop a supernatural war from happening.
I enjoyed the writing style and dialogue between the characters, the wit & snark it will have you smiling at times. There are mentions of others in the Montague & Simon world even if they haven't made appearances...yet! The book doesn't exactly end with a cliff hanger but with more of a hook to make you want the next book. Good storyline to this first book.
January 23, 2021
The Man Never Rests,
Another superlative, fully engrossing page turner by Mr. Sanchez who must be downing gallons of DeathWish a day yo continuously churn out fantastic tale after fantastic tale. I really love the layers Mr Sanchez has created with his characters who each are fully formed individuals with their own unique and separate traits. It is great fun to learn more of their backstories as it helps me get a sense off where MrSanchez mitt beta king us (I’m thinking a double loop reverse corkscrew coaster) and I love it when unexpected visitors arrive in a new series (Go Night Warden!), Already downloaded books 2 & 3 and I hope Sanchez is hard at work after Walking the Razor because I hate waiting to shave the stubble! Excellent stuff as expected by the Master!
Another superlative, fully engrossing page turner by Mr. Sanchez who must be downing gallons of DeathWish a day yo continuously churn out fantastic tale after fantastic tale. I really love the layers Mr Sanchez has created with his characters who each are fully formed individuals with their own unique and separate traits. It is great fun to learn more of their backstories as it helps me get a sense off where MrSanchez mitt beta king us (I’m thinking a double loop reverse corkscrew coaster) and I love it when unexpected visitors arrive in a new series (Go Night Warden!), Already downloaded books 2 & 3 and I hope Sanchez is hard at work after Walking the Razor because I hate waiting to shave the stubble! Excellent stuff as expected by the Master!
March 16, 2020
Part one of three - caveat emptor!
Blood Ascension focuses on Michiko, from the Montague and Strong world, promising to reveal more about her and her motivations.
I’m feeling somewhat disappointed. Rather than a book with a beginning, a middle, and an end, this is more of a novella with a beginning and the hint of a middle. It does not feel complete in itself and does not satisfy. It is only when you get to the last page of Blood Ascension that you are told that this is a 3-parter. Had I know this at the outset, I probably would not have bought it, despite being a fan of the main Montague and Strong series.
Blood Ascension focuses on Michiko, from the Montague and Strong world, promising to reveal more about her and her motivations.
I’m feeling somewhat disappointed. Rather than a book with a beginning, a middle, and an end, this is more of a novella with a beginning and the hint of a middle. It does not feel complete in itself and does not satisfy. It is only when you get to the last page of Blood Ascension that you are told that this is a 3-parter. Had I know this at the outset, I probably would not have bought it, despite being a fan of the main Montague and Strong series.
March 19, 2020
Michiko’s story. Finallyish
Have you ever waited so long for a particular story, that when it finally comes out you are jumping up and down and doing a happy dance? This is finally the start of this characters story.
It actually starts at the end, but I loved the descriptive action scenes and references to other characters we all love and hate.
I will still be jumping up and down for the next two in the series. I have so many questions that need answering. Will he or won’t he? Only Mr. Sanchez knows for sure
Have you ever waited so long for a particular story, that when it finally comes out you are jumping up and down and doing a happy dance? This is finally the start of this characters story.
It actually starts at the end, but I loved the descriptive action scenes and references to other characters we all love and hate.
I will still be jumping up and down for the next two in the series. I have so many questions that need answering. Will he or won’t he? Only Mr. Sanchez knows for sure
March 21, 2020
Wow!
I am in awe of the depth and complexity of Orlando Sanchez’s Montague and Strong Universe. His stories have such details and color that I always feel like I am there with the characters. There are so many moving parts from each of the series that I don’t know how he keeps it straight. Each story adds more depth and reality to this world. Bravo Orlando Sanchez, bravo! Thank you for sharing this rich inner world with the rest of us. I anxiously await the next installment.
I am in awe of the depth and complexity of Orlando Sanchez’s Montague and Strong Universe. His stories have such details and color that I always feel like I am there with the characters. There are so many moving parts from each of the series that I don’t know how he keeps it straight. Each story adds more depth and reality to this world. Bravo Orlando Sanchez, bravo! Thank you for sharing this rich inner world with the rest of us. I anxiously await the next installment.
March 18, 2020
Vampire badass
Michiko(sp?) Is such an interesting character. I'm glad she's getting her own story to get a better feel for what makes her tick. She is a vampire however this book is not all about her drinking blood. It's about the vampires, mages, and magical beings and trying to keep humanity safe. Great book Orlando!
Michiko(sp?) Is such an interesting character. I'm glad she's getting her own story to get a better feel for what makes her tick. She is a vampire however this book is not all about her drinking blood. It's about the vampires, mages, and magical beings and trying to keep humanity safe. Great book Orlando!
March 18, 2020
Deeper meanings
Our first look inside The Dark Coucil is action packed & intense. We meet a few new characters, visit some familiar ones and enjoy lots of snark. Every bit as high energy as our favorite M & S books but with a femme fatale twist and don't get me started on that ending.👹👹
Our first look inside The Dark Coucil is action packed & intense. We meet a few new characters, visit some familiar ones and enjoy lots of snark. Every bit as high energy as our favorite M & S books but with a femme fatale twist and don't get me started on that ending.👹👹
March 24, 2020
Karitori-fu..!
Now being less down a completely different path in the M&S&P alternative world and showing us a darker underbelly of their supernatural world!
This was a great start, though much much too short! But all these additional books are only "time-outs" till the next Montegue & Strong/Peaches novels which we SO NEED soon!
Now being less down a completely different path in the M&S&P alternative world and showing us a darker underbelly of their supernatural world!
This was a great start, though much much too short! But all these additional books are only "time-outs" till the next Montegue & Strong/Peaches novels which we SO NEED soon!
March 30, 2020
More Snarky and action packed story
Love Michiko and Byako. There's always something to be said about have a snarky kick butt character. I'm looking forward to learning more about Michiko's history. You have to read the series to appreciate what's currently taking place in this short three part story.
Love Michiko and Byako. There's always something to be said about have a snarky kick butt character. I'm looking forward to learning more about Michiko's history. You have to read the series to appreciate what's currently taking place in this short three part story.
May 11, 2020
Don’t mess with a vampire that can turn you you sushi.
This book was over too soon, I got so engrossed in the story it went too fast. A rollercoaster of a ride as the story evolves. A mystery within the action, who, what, where, why can’t wait to pick up the next instalment FANTASTIC.
This book was over too soon, I got so engrossed in the story it went too fast. A rollercoaster of a ride as the story evolves. A mystery within the action, who, what, where, why can’t wait to pick up the next instalment FANTASTIC.
June 18, 2020
Michiko, former head of the Dark Council has stepped down. The Council doesn't seem to appreciate her leave of absence and have sent assassins after her.
Orlando has started a deep dive into Michiko's life giving us some background for Strong's girl. If you haven't read any of the Montague and Strong series I recommend it highly
Orlando has started a deep dive into Michiko's life giving us some background for Strong's girl. If you haven't read any of the Montague and Strong series I recommend it highly
June 20, 2020
I understand that this is part one of a series. However, this part felt incomplete. I did not learn anything more than I already knew about the characters or their motivations. The fight scenes took up a lot of pages of the novella. I will wait until the series is complete before reading another part.
July 3, 2020
New Story, same excellent writing
I love the focus of this being about Chi. For those who have not read the MS&P book, you need to, and for those of you that have you know what I'm talking about. Having this first look into Michiko's world was awesome and I can't wait to get more. And I love Byako!
I love the focus of this being about Chi. For those who have not read the MS&P book, you need to, and for those of you that have you know what I'm talking about. Having this first look into Michiko's world was awesome and I can't wait to get more. And I love Byako!
September 14, 2020
Not a fan of the Michiko character in the Montague and Strong books. But this series gives insight into her character that, while it doesn't make me like her, allows me to 'get' her a bit better. And Orlando Sanchez - very wisely - gives her a comic foil in Byako, her student and second. Very good sidebar to the main M&S storyline.
December 30, 2020
Hate cliffhangers
Have I mention how I hate cliffhangers? Well, I do, and the one in here felt highly unnecessary, the book was too short for it, we could have gotten a little more story.
Basically someone wants Michiko dead, and they sent someone who she believed was on her side to do it. She won't be taken easily, but she knows that things are about to get complicated. The easy path she though she would be able to use to solve the problem got complicated, and now it will be the hard way.
Have I mention how I hate cliffhangers? Well, I do, and the one in here felt highly unnecessary, the book was too short for it, we could have gotten a little more story.
Basically someone wants Michiko dead, and they sent someone who she believed was on her side to do it. She won't be taken easily, but she knows that things are about to get complicated. The easy path she though she would be able to use to solve the problem got complicated, and now it will be the hard way.
August 1, 2021
A great start
Well that’s a great start to the enigma that is Michiko Nakatomi. On the run, or rather hidden in plain sight, she’s trying to fix the problems caused by her absence from the council.
This was a very brief introduction to the Vampire entanglement with the Montague and Strong novels.
Well that’s a great start to the enigma that is Michiko Nakatomi. On the run, or rather hidden in plain sight, she’s trying to fix the problems caused by her absence from the council.
This was a very brief introduction to the Vampire entanglement with the Montague and Strong novels.
March 19, 2020
Too short, so good
As sad as I was to reach the end of part one ... It's just hyped the rest of the story. Getting more of Michikos story is awesome and definitely very desired, I can't stand the wait for parts two and three- but I guess I'll suffer through
As sad as I was to reach the end of part one ... It's just hyped the rest of the story. Getting more of Michikos story is awesome and definitely very desired, I can't stand the wait for parts two and three- but I guess I'll suffer through
March 20, 2020
Must Read!!
Orlando Sanchez is living up to his established standards with Michico's side story! I kinda feel bad for the were-bear though. Obviously Dex needs to do the rune work.. LOL
Orlando Sanchez is living up to his established standards with Michico's side story! I kinda feel bad for the were-bear though. Obviously Dex needs to do the rune work.. LOL
March 21, 2020
Intrigued
So....I wasn't that intrigued my Chi but this book changed that. Get to see a different side of her and Ken and really want to know more about her bodyguard. Waiting for the next one impatiently
So....I wasn't that intrigued my Chi but this book changed that. Get to see a different side of her and Ken and really want to know more about her bodyguard. Waiting for the next one impatiently
March 22, 2020
Blood Ascension.
I really enjoyed this and getting to know Chi. She has been an elusive character in the Monty and Strong books, despite having an important role in Simon's life. Left on a proper cliff hanger, but just makes it more exciting.
I really enjoyed this and getting to know Chi. She has been an elusive character in the Monty and Strong books, despite having an important role in Simon's life. Left on a proper cliff hanger, but just makes it more exciting.
April 17, 2020
a heroine for dark times
michiko's path is her own and, her shadow leaves an unmistakable trail of those who would stand in her way. i have been looking forward to learning more about this deadly, mysterious psychotic femme noir
michiko's path is her own and, her shadow leaves an unmistakable trail of those who would stand in her way. i have been looking forward to learning more about this deadly, mysterious psychotic femme noir
April 24, 2020
Great Read
Love that Michico gets her own books. She is a “bad ass.” The story continues from Montague and Strong and Orlando continues his magic. This story is so good that you don’t want it to end. A must read.
Love that Michico gets her own books. She is a “bad ass.” The story continues from Montague and Strong and Orlando continues his magic. This story is so good that you don’t want it to end. A must read.
April 29, 2020
Nice new addition to the M&S series as a whole.
More great writing by one of my favorite authors. The characters flow wonderfully with the the timeline of the original series. Sanchez creates a epic world of mythology, mayhem, and mages. Can't say enough!
More great writing by one of my favorite authors. The characters flow wonderfully with the the timeline of the original series. Sanchez creates a epic world of mythology, mayhem, and mages. Can't say enough!
May 22, 2020
An interesting read
I found this one different than the other books in this universe. First of all if ended on a clif hanger which the author did apologize for. It’s still a good book and an interesting read, so I am looking forward to the next one.
I found this one different than the other books in this universe. First of all if ended on a clif hanger which the author did apologize for. It’s still a good book and an interesting read, so I am looking forward to the next one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews