Ascension is a dark, emotionally charged continuation of S.T. Gibson’s summoner series—rich in tension, layered with religious symbolism, and more horror-leaning than its predecessor. While the tone leans heavy and the characters are often suffering, Gibson’s lyrical prose and emotionally complex storytelling make it an unputdownable sequel.

This installment shifts its focus to Rhys, a summoner whose slow descent into corruption and power obsession is both gripping and tragic. Watching him reject help, isolate himself, and spiral toward the edge is devastating—but also deeply compelling. Gibson doesn’t shy away from portraying the messiness of ambition, guilt, and faith, and Rhys’ internal conflict is one of the book’s strongest elements.

There’s a heavier emphasis on horror this time around—unnerving imagery, creeping dread, and supernatural consequences that echo through every page. Yet, the suspense and emotional depth remain grounded in character, especially as the story explores themes of power, devotion, and spiritual crisis. Catholic imagery and theology are prominent throughout, but never in a preachy or moralizing way—they serve to enrich Rhys’ arc and the overall atmosphere.

Ascension delivers exactly what readers have come to expect from S.T. Gibson: beautifully written darkness, haunting introspection, and characters who burn with love, pain, and power. It’s not always an easy read emotionally, but it’s deeply satisfying and beautifully constructed. You’ll find a lot to love here—especially if you’re drawn to stories of power, religious symbolism, and complicated, broken characters. I’m already counting down to the next installment.

Thank you NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!

Thank you NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!

I was so happy to be back with my favorite summoners even though we had to see them miserable for most of the people. I loved how in this book we focused on Rhys who very quickly gets corrupted by power and refuses help from others until its almost too late.

I felt that this one had more horror elements than the first one but the same suspense and tension I expected from these characters in this world. I hope in the next book, we can see more from Moira. In the first book, we were focused on David and in this one, Rhys was the focus. Moira was very much in the backseat which sucked! I love her character.

There were a lot of religious aspects to this book especially Catholicism. Its not a book that wants to preach, so don't worry about that. But those aspects are important to the story and specifically Rhys.

Overall, amazing like every other S.T. Gibson book. Can't wait for the next one!

Following on from Evocation - I was really looking forward to seeing how the golden trio handle the poly-trouple dynamics and save Rhys from the demon pact. While we definitely got plenty of the former, the latter doesn't appear in this installment. Ascension focuses on Rhys' struggle with power and maintaining relationships as he attempts to juggle everything while rising to power as high priest of the society. It's slower paced and more akin to a character study - there's lot of character and less plot this time.

I loved exploring Rhys and Moira's relationship, and seeing Moira really come into her own as a more fleshed out character. I am very much looking forward to the third book in the series, especially with Evocation's ending - and am hoping it'll be focused on Moira.

Thank you S.T. Gibson, Angry Robot and NetGalley for my e-arc of Ascension.

After reading the first book in this series, I was curious how Gibson would continue to explore the world established in Evocation. The characters were all so fun to spend time with and all have a rich inner world that was so fun to explore. an excellent addition to the series!

Ascension is the highly anticipated sequel to Evocation. This second book is mainly about Rhys' journey and struggle as newly High Priest of a secret society in Boston, although his wife Moira and his boyfriend David also play a big part and have their own chapters. I really enjoyed this sequel and this series is just a prime example of a fantastic magic system and why I enjoy urban fantasy so much and why it still remains my favorite subgenre in fantasy. S.T. Gibson truly excels in this genre!

Like I said before Ascension is about Rhys' journey and struggle in his new position while maintaining his relationships with the most important people in his life. But Rhys soon crosses the line into taking on too much and juggling too many demons for the Society's rituals. Adding to the chaos, Boston reels after a strange ritual comes to light in a public setting. And on top of that, one of David's old crushes comes into town and captures David’s attention. Rhys is being stretched too thin and the demons around him start to overwhelm him to the point that he starts alienating his friends and more importantly his loved ones. It openes the door for sabotage and maybe even the end of the Society.

I couldn't help feeling so bad for Rhys as he was struggling with everything that was going on, even though it was due to his own desires and ambition. I felt equally bad for David and Moira who just wanted Rhys to prioritize them. I especially felt for David because he'd been doing so great lately, staying sober and trying to make things work with his and Rhys' renewed romance. And just like in the first book, Moira was just a bright shining star. I love her character so much and I'm loving seeing her grow and come into her own whether it's personality wise, magically or sexually. I'm also loving her and David's growing relationship. They have such a great bond on their own, even without Rhys. They are just adorable!

As per usual, the polyamory aspect between Moira, Rhys and David was so well-written. The dynamic between the three of them really came to a pinnacle, in the best possible way. This made me really happy since most of the book was quite the struggle for all of them. I also loved that we got to know some of the secondary characters more like Kitty, Nathan and Anthoni. And I want to know even more about them. I wouldn't be against a spin-off book or series about those characters, just saying. ;)

Overal, Ascension by S.T. Gibson was an amazing addition to the The Summoner's Circle. And while I found Evocation to be a bit more compelling in terms of plot, I still very much enjoyed this second book since it had some brilliant character development. I hope for the next book that Moira is going to be the center of attention because that would be so wonderful. I already can't wait to read the next instalment!

A deliciously messy dive into ambition, magic, and complicated relationships. The vibes are gothic and witchy, the drama is top-tier, and the emotional stakes are sky-high. It’s the kind of book that makes you gasp, grin, and maybe text your friends about the ending.

I have been eager to sink my teeth into Ascension after falling head over heels for Evocation, and it was everything I could have asked for.

Just like the first book, the world-building and the magic system scratches an itch for me. (Some things described here that had me really immersed in their world: the way different kinds of spirituality affects a magic user, the various covens & societies whose work give an old-world feel juxtaposed with the symptoms of the digital age such as occultists meeting up thru social media, etc). But what really got me coming back for more: the messy, complicated relationships between characters. The way their issues escalate in this second installment? Sublime. There is something utterly raw and real about these characters and their worries, their coping mechanisms, their vices and virtues. I lived for the drama, the betrayals, and the heartwarming conflict resolutions.

This book focuses primarily on the challenges Rhys faces now that he is High Priest. He’s desperate to reach the ideal he envisioned of success. Plus, he hasn’t told his family about his sexuality nor of his sorcery. Now, I’m not nearly as ambitious as Rhys (bro reached levels of workaholism I never thought possible), but part of me can genuinely relate to his struggles [i.e. Never feeling good enough even when you’ve achieved so much. Often trying and failing to get others to take you seriously. A constant sense of dread lurking within you that says you’re unworthy of those who love you. Turning to prayer for comfort and support, yet feeling like a fraud because of everything wrong with you (I’m Muslim, so it’s not Catholic guilt for me, but perhaps something adjacent to that). A gnawing anxiety whispering that the blessings in your life will disappear. How that causes you to want to tighten your control over anything you can keep within your grasp. The fear of being seen. How lies slip too easily from your lips since it has long been habitual, but it still aches when you can’t live your truth.]

Rhys’s internal guilt and shame hit me hard. And he made some pretty bad decisions (due to a mix of his insecurities and an overload of demonic influence), did things that made my jaw drop and drastically raised the stakes of the story. It hurt my heart, yet I loved it, because I do adore seeing my fictional pookies hit rock bottom and then excruciatingly crawl back up.

Lastly, that scene near the very end (iykyk) was glorious; thank you to the author for the deliciously spicy meal ;)

I adore S.T. Gibson's other work, including but not limited to the other books in the Summoner's Circle Series. Unfortunately, though, this one didn't work for me. I'm trying to figure out why exactly, and I think it's a mixture of pacing and character development.

Gibson packed so much plot into this book that it left very little time to spend with each character. As a result, this book didn't really pick up the loose threads of the last one – I wanted them to address the curse but it was mentioned like three times total? And based on the beginning of the book, I thought there'd be more fleshing out of David and Moira's relationship. Moira felt like an afterthought in the story, which is unfortunate because she's my favourite character based on how well previous books showed who she was and wove her into the plot.

The "twist" felt really predictable, but I still love this series and am hopeful that future books will be better paced/organized.

Thank you NetGalley for an advance review copy.

Ascension was an excellent continuation of the first book in the series (Evocation). This volume focuses in on Rhys, the newly crowned High Priest and his struggles with his blind ambition. I enjoyed the story and especially appreciated the ending as it refocuses Rhys in a way I wouldn't have imagined in the first book.

I did struggle a little bit feeling Rhys was a touch underdeveloped and singly focused. There were moments where his disregard for anything aside from power rang a little false from what we knew of him in the first book. Not enough to make me dislike it, just enough for some side eye.

The book leaves with a good finish but with threads leading into the next phase of the story which we'll see in the later books. I was surprised that this wasn't a duology though and instead I see two more books forthcoming.

In a return to the Summoner’s Circle series, Ascension predominantly follows Rhys and his journey as High Priest while unraveling themes of worthiness and love. I can imagine it being either triggering or a balm for readers who struggle with those theme so preceded with caution.

I have been a huge fan of this series, but found this sequel to just drag on before catching my attention. I absolutely loved our new MMC that was added to the mix, but I couldn't stand to see Rhys acting like such a child, despite all the growth we have seen so far. Writing was as lovely as I have come to expect from Gibson, but personally could have done without this plot line.

I can't decide how i feel about this series...
I read the first one thinking i would never pick this series up again but found myself reading the second book. I enjoyed the second book more than the first and I liked how the characters developped throughout this second instalment.

I will continue reading this series but I don't think it is one I would easily be able to recommend to people.

Another fantastic addition to the series! Featuring found family, family trauma, mystery, betrayal, and magic! I had so much fun reading this and getting to know more about the characters. I love the messy relationships and the dynamics between the characters. The romance continues to grow and I can't wait to get more of their relationship in the next books. I especially adored the found family aspect and how the much the members mean to one another. Overall, a fantastic addition to the story and universe and I honestly will read anything S.T. Gibson writes. They just have a gorgeous way of writing and crafting characters with so much depth and heart.

3.5 ⭐️ I loved the character, but the story fell flat


Quick Summary:
⭐️ LBGT rep
⭐️ Found family
⭐️ Family trauma
⭐️mystery elements
⭐️Betrayal
⭐️ magic
⭐️Tension
⭐️ Slow pacing



My Thoughts:

I thought this book would really hop on the plot from the first. Rhys now has a blond tie to a demon that will end his life by saving David’s life. This is a huge plot, yet it barely was in this book. Instead the focus was more personal with Rhys being unable to be high priest, and ruining relationships. I enjoyed the messy characters with this, however I do think this book needed a stronger plot element like the first had. Instead I felt as if this book truly wasn't needed.

I loved:

Romance
I did love Rhy, Moira and David. Their dynamic is beautiful even with the ups and downs. I think this book did a great job of showcasing how easy and hard their dynamic is. From the planning of dates, communication and boundaries of relationship. I loved the exploration of their dynamics.


Found Family
I loved the found family of the society. I do think this book showcased it more how much the members mean to both David and Rhys. I wish it was used with the plot of the demon more like somehow saving Rhys. Instead it really just was used to showcase the dynamics of the main characters.

Disliked
Plot Set Up
The plot actually was just Rhys with his rise and downfall of being a high priest. This is fine, but shouldn't have been the only plot especially with Rhys having a blood tie to a demon. This should have been tied into his downfall more, and made a bit more. Instead the plot felt overall light, and the max situation felt more like jealousy than what it truly was.

Pacing
The pacing of this book felt off. It could be the plot being Rhys made the book feel slower, but overall I felt as if the book dragged along especially compared to the first.



Overall, I would recommend if you loved the characters with the first book.

It is always such a pleasure to read S.T. Gibson's books even if I don't necessarily love the characters. I have felt very off about Rhys since book one and honestly feel like he isn't bringing much to the table which again, another book and my opinion stands. Regardless of that fact, I love this world and love to see all the characters once again and the new ones pop up. I am firmly team David here and i'm hoping he gets his own story. Such beautiful characters, I always end this series wanting more.

Another brilliant adventure from ST Gibson! Regular followers of mine know that I've been singing her praises since the very first days, and it's a joy to see these characters move forward and blossom (kind of!) as they're allowed their own series.

I'm still 100% Team Moira, adoring her practicality combined with her spirituality, and her honesty about her own doubts and the troublesome menfolk that she loves... who are once again making questionable decisions that really won't end well.

Readers should definitely read 'Evocation' first to avoid feeling lost, but this stands as a triumphant second part of this magical polyamorous romance. Regular fans will adore it.

It’s hard to write a review of a book when there’s an aspect of it I really loved, and another aspect I didn’t, and both are crucial to the making of a good novel. Overall, what I liked and disliked about Ascension are the same things I liked and disliked about Evocation.

I’ll start with what I liked, which are the characters. As in Evocation, I found them all very interesting, and they work so well together. I appreciate that the focus was on Rhys this time because, although I loved David in Evocation, Rhys is such an interesting character. I love how S.T. Gibson didn’t shy away from making him absolutely pathetic and so flawed. It’s not often that the author digs so deep into their character’s flaws, to the point where their actions are understandable but not excusable. It made the book really fun to read, because I was constantly getting frustrated at Rhys for making bad choices and digging his own grave, but also being really invested because these bad choices really moved the book forward and didn’t let the plot stagnate.

I do regret that Moira wasn’t developed in a more multi-dimensional way like Rhys and David. She’s a really sweet character, but I feel like she’s sometimes reduced only to that sweetness. I want her to get mad, I want her to lose control, I want her to be a bit darker than this sweet bubbly girl. I feel like her potential is a bit ignored, and that she’s a too simple in comparison to Rhys and David. These two are really flawed, and Gibson fully uses that for the sake of the plot and character arcs, but doesn’t do it as much with Moira. Perhaps she will do it more in the third book.

I also wasn’t as invested in the relationship between Rhys, Moira, and David as I was in Evocation because it’s an established relationship, but it was still fun to read about. I love the way S.T. Gibson treats polyamory, and I think we could all benefit from seeing more of this kind of relationships in media. Generally speaking, and even if I wished Moira were more developed, the characters and their relationship are what made this book good for me.

As with Evocation, the main issue with Ascension is the plot. With Evocation, there was virtually no plot going on until the very end, despite a very promising premise. It didn’t bother me so much because the characters and their budding relationship more than made up for it. Admittedly, Ascension has a lot more plot than Evocation did. Whereas in Evocation, the characters did close to nothing to advance towards the end goal until the very end, they are far more active in Ascension. But in Evocation, I could at least clearly point at what was the end goal they were supposed to be working on. In Ascension, I simply had no idea what they were working towards, what the climax might look like, and what I was supposed to look forward to. I kept reading because I was invested in the characters and wanted to know what would happen next, but if asked, I wouldn’t have been able to tell you what the book’s plot was about. Even now that I’ve finished it, it’s not totally clear.

More disappointing was the fact that the series’ overarching plot—or what I thought it was—is barely ever mentioned. The end of Evocation led me to believe that in Ascension, Rhys would battle with the same demon David battled with, and find a more permanent way to be rid of it. That’s not what happened at all. The demon’s presence and the events of the previous book were only ever mentioned in passing, as if the deadline was not looming over the horizon, as if the characters didn’t care about trying to get rid of the demon anymore. That simply didn’t make sense given the urgency with which they tried to find a solution in the previous book. I understand that Rhys has more time than David did, but why isn’t he actively looking for a solution all the same? It very much felt like I was reading an adjacent series, with the same characters and themes but a completely different plot with completely different stakes, instead of the continuation of Evocation.

I also eventually got a bit tired of the magic system. It’s interesting, and maybe it’s just that I am personally tired of Catholicism, but it feels like Gibson only took what already exists about summonings, rituals, tarot, etc., without trying to make something new of it, without trying to subvert it. It’s not bad worldbuilding per se, but it’s not very creative and original either, and Gibson hardly ever questions religion, whether God is good or not, whether angels are good or not, etc. She mentions Catholic guilt, certainly, but there is no real conversation about the goodness of Catholicism as a religion, or even the harm that it has caused to so many groups because it was weaponised against them. Again, there’s a lot of potential here, and Gibson fails to fully exploit it, which gets a bit tiring.

Overall, I quite enjoyed the book. I had a good time with it, and if the premise of the third book sounds interesting enough, I’ll come back to read it, with the hope that Gibson will have gotten better. It’s just that Gibson misses out on a lot of potential. Since I’ve only ever read this series and none of her other books yet, I can’t tell if she’s a weak writer who has good ideas, or if it’s just that she’s not getting the hang of this series as much as she could have.

Thank you to NetGalley and Angry Robot for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

4.5/5

This one was way better structured than Evocation, but the plot still feels like an excuse for the characters to hang out rather than something they’re actually engaged in.

Since Rhys is the focus, I was hoping for some real growth, but no—he just breezed through every conflict with zero lasting consequences. Once again, David and Moira stole the show (and let’s be real, they’ll keep doing that in every book).

I loved seeing familiar faces again, and meeting new ones! The whole thing felt way smoother than the first book, though I wish the occult world had more spotlight.

I do have high hopes that this series will get better with each book, but it's a crime to make me wait til 2027 to read the next one!

DNF at 26%.

Evocation was one of my favourite books of last year and I’m a big fan of ST Gibson’s writing - Savage Blooms is one of my most anticipated books of the year - but I struggled with Ascension so much.

I adore Moira and David, but Rhys is insufferable in this book and being in his head so much while David and Moira were pushed aside and there was little growth or even tension and angst in their relationship left me a little bored. I was having to push myself through so I decided to DNF. I loved Evocation and I’m happy to leave this series there and look forward to Savage Blooms instead.

This has become one of my favorite series and I’m glad that Rhys’ book had came second because he was my favorite in Evocation. I find they ST Gibson has created a great cast of characters that I learned so much about in the first book but left enough mystery that I was yearning for this second book and it didn’t disappoint. I found that learning more about Rhys, his character, history, relationships, and desires helped to continues to round him out to be an even more engaging character. I also found that she didn’t throw other characters to the side and continued to build and round out each character with an attention to details that made them all continue to feel original and true to themselves. I think this was a great addition to the series and honestly it’s going to be hard to top it.