firstly, if you’re thinking of reading riftborne/duskbound as well i would strongly suggest you read it first. it’s not essential (i haven’t an understood the book just fine) but the authors note mentioned there were significant easter eggs which i think would enhance the reading experience. now into the book

i really liked thais as out main characters and thought she was refreshing in many ways, some decisions she made were slightly frustrating but did make sense in the end, also i really appreciated how she’s not perfect.

the balance between the fantasy plot and the romance was really good and i didn’t find myself wanting, although i do think the book could be slightly shorter as i sometimes found it to drag a bit.

this did have a more dark/gothic vibe that i thought going into it which wasn’t bad at all just not my general taste, but it did help enhance the atmosphere of the world we were in.

the trials were fun and really unpredictable. i liked how they felt so unique and helped developed the relationships between the main and side characters.

overall i really like this, its different to the kind of book i usually gravitate towards but was still enjoyable and i would highly recommend. although its not completely to my taste i still found it interesting and will definitely be reading the sequel when it comes out

thank you to net galley for this arc!

The squeal I let out when I found I was getting an advanced copy of this book was unreal.

Every single time these women release a book it gets better, even when I don’t think it can. There is just something about the way they write that is so incredibly captivating. There’s no lull in the writing, leaving you bored but it’s not so fast paced that it ever feels rushed. We get world building perfectly balanced with action and character development. Every scene feels like it adds to the story and moves it along perfectly, drawing you further into the world that’s been created. I am utterly obsessed with these characters and cannot wait for everyone else to fall in love with them too.

And the little Easter eggs that lead to the ending? I knew where it was heading and I was still absolute floored by how well it came together. I’m also now anxiously awaiting their next book 👏🏻

Please if you haven’t read riftborn and duskbound yet run and do that so you can read this on release for the full effect of how incredible this is. (Same universe seperate duology)

We have

✅ Strong FMC with a stronger twin bond
✅ Dark and broody MMC - he’s the warden of death 😏
✅ He trains her
✅ Enemies to lovers … to ? 🫢
✅ Trials
✅ Found family
✅ Top tier banter
✅ Politics
✅ Betrayals
✅ Tensions and Yearning 😩😮‍💨
✅ Heartbreak ( maybe just mine but none the less )


If you like fantasy romances this is absolutely for you. I am entirely unwell after finishing this book and cannot wait for everyone else to read it so I can lose my mind all over again.


Thanks again for the early copy it was a privilege and a pleaser 🫶🏻

Grenwich and Lennox have done it again. Another 6 star read.
This story was a roller coaster ride taking you up, down and upside down. I love the dynamics between all the characters, Thatcher and Thais’s bond and the hot and cold with Thais and Xul! THE ENDING …….. HOLY MOLY!!! DID NOT EXPECT THAT!!!! I am literally speechless!!🤯 #TheAscended #grenwichlennox #NetGalley #ARCread

From the moment I discovered this author through “Rift Borne,” I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. With each turn of the page, their signature style and enchanting storytelling have left me spellbound, and I can honestly say that I have never regretted applying to be an ARC reader for their much-anticipated new release.

Set to grace our shelves on October 7, this latest Romantasy is a beautiful confection that promises to linger in the heart long after the last page is turned. The chemistry between Thai and Xul is electrifying—their banter crackles with such intensity that it sent delightful shivers down my spine. It’s witty, playful, and so incredibly captivating that you’ll find yourself laughing out loud and cheering them on as they navigate their ups and downs.

The plot itself is nothing short of brilliant, weaving a rich tapestry of adventure, magic, and romance that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Each twist and turn left me yearning for more, and I can’t help but itch for the continuation of their journey. Trust me when I say, you’ll finish this book and immediately want to dive back into their world—good luck waiting for book two!

If you’re a fan of romance that dances beautifully with fantasy, this book is a must-read. This author has once again proven their undeniable talent, and I am head over heels for every word. Prepare your hearts for an unforgettable ride! 💖✨

What a masterpiece! I went into this expecting to love it, and my expectations were exceeded 10 fold. One of the best books I’ve read this year. The world building was excellent. Some of the best characters I’ve read about. And the trials?! Those were the best parts. They were so original and unlike anything I have ever read before. The writing was so beautifully descriptive that I could image everything in my head clearly. This story is original and unlike anything I’ve ever read. I’m really glad that I read riftborne and duskbound before this and I enjoyed this book so much more. The ending took be my surprise. I had no idea and never saw it coming! I was left staring at the wall after finishing mind reeling. Cant wait for the next book! 6 stars!

This book is definitely on the longer side and was such a pleasant surprise. I honestly wasn’t expecting to love it as much as I did. At first, it gave me a bit of Hunger Games vibes, but with powers and a divine twist. A world where deities and humans live side by side, but the gods forbid humans with powers from mixing freely. Instead, anyone born with abilities must undergo deathly trials. If they succeed, they ascend and join the ranks of the gods themselves.

Thais and Thatcher, the twin children of a god and a human. Their parentage is kept secret for as long as possible, but once discovered, they’re forced into the trials. With the help of their mentos, they must train and fight to survive. Not I ly for ascension but also against to prepare for the rebellion brewing in the shadows.

I loved the sibling bond here. Thaise and Thatcher share a unique link that lets them connect with one another on a deeper level, and it added so much emotional weight to their journey. As the story unfolded, the stakes kept climbing, and by the end I was completely hooked. The cliffhanger left me wanting more and now I’m counting down until the next installment.

I also really enjoyed learning that this series ties into the Riftborne trilogy, set decades earlier. I haven’t read those books yet, but now I definitely plan to, especially to catch all the connections.

Overall, the spice level was good, the plot kept me invested, and the twists delivered. I highly recommend this one.