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The Path of Ascension #2
The Path of Ascension 2
With a unexpected temporary addition to the team, Matt, Liz, and Aster venture out unto the ever-expanding frontier. There, they'll deal with the challenge of an unexplored planet and all its hidden dangers.
Their journey on the path of ascension continues... But do they have what it takes to persevere?
Their journey on the path of ascension continues... But do they have what it takes to persevere?
569 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2023
1218 people are currently reading
380 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
March 30, 2023
This book was uninteresting. It felt almost like a filler.
I
The ending chapters were interesting, and only because of that I am willing to read the next book. I would have dropped the series and author if the earlier crap continued.
I hope the next book isn't filled with more slog. It's almost like the author doesn't want them to level. Book one contained so much information and progress, and this book was basically one world with no real improvement gained. A few items here and there, but that is nothing compared to book one.
2.5/5 Stars
I
The ending chapters were interesting, and only because of that I am willing to read the next book. I would have dropped the series and author if the earlier crap continued.
I hope the next book isn't filled with more slog. It's almost like the author doesn't want them to level. Book one contained so much information and progress, and this book was basically one world with no real improvement gained. A few items here and there, but that is nothing compared to book one.
2.5/5 Stars
April 29, 2023
This is part of a strong series where you need to read in order.
You know mostly what you are getting and that's a good thing. Mostly. I think this story bogs down a bit, particularly in the middle with a contrived war and irresponsible higher tiers putting their thumb on the scale for selfish reasons. This works as character development for our mains and a good exploration of the worldbuilding. But it also went on too long with little change and was a dreary development to begin with.
Not that I'm not thrilled with the character arcs. I particularly like that Matt and Liz take it to the next level and admit they're together and exclusive. I totally ship them and their relationship is completely awesome. I particularly like how much happiness Matt gets by making Liz happy. It's endearing.
Unfortunately, while I loved the late stage character growth, the plot gets a bit boring, taken up as it is with experimentation and crafting. I mostly liked how they went about things, mind, but it was still a big pace break.
I'm going to go with four stars on this one. It was good, don't get me wrong, but it had enough weakness I can't quite give it five. I'm still eager for the next one.
A note about Steamy: There's just baaarely enough detail to trip the steam tag in this one. It's one scene, more or less, and it isn't terribly detailed anatomically. But it's steamy enough I'm going to call it. Barely. I do love that this has such a strong central relationship. Liz and Matt are adorable together and I love seeing them take that friendship into deeper waters.
You know mostly what you are getting and that's a good thing. Mostly. I think this story bogs down a bit, particularly in the middle with a contrived war and irresponsible higher tiers putting their thumb on the scale for selfish reasons. This works as character development for our mains and a good exploration of the worldbuilding. But it also went on too long with little change and was a dreary development to begin with.
Not that I'm not thrilled with the character arcs. I particularly like that Matt and Liz take it to the next level and admit they're together and exclusive. I totally ship them and their relationship is completely awesome. I particularly like how much happiness Matt gets by making Liz happy. It's endearing.
Unfortunately, while I loved the late stage character growth, the plot gets a bit boring, taken up as it is with experimentation and crafting. I mostly liked how they went about things, mind, but it was still a big pace break.
I'm going to go with four stars on this one. It was good, don't get me wrong, but it had enough weakness I can't quite give it five. I'm still eager for the next one.
A note about Steamy: There's just baaarely enough detail to trip the steam tag in this one. It's one scene, more or less, and it isn't terribly detailed anatomically. But it's steamy enough I'm going to call it. Barely. I do love that this has such a strong central relationship. Liz and Matt are adorable together and I love seeing them take that friendship into deeper waters.
February 8, 2023
Really enjoyable read and a great catch up with Matt, Liz and Aster. The new addition of Camilla was an interesting one and with Aster's rapid growth, I've my fingers and toes crossed that she takes her human form soon and reconnects with Camilla. WOOHOO, to Lady Loving!!
January 18, 2025
I am flying through the pages of these books 3 days to finish each of the first two books and that too with office and everything. So far I have found that I cannot stop reading and enjoying the hell out of it. Why then 1 star less because like a few other reviewers said that the first 75% of the book dragged a bit or more but even though overall I liked this the first part was slow but then the island adventure was just top class and it was great to see Matt as the crazy scientist so now it's time for the war so let's go and Keep on Reading.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put, I absolutely love reading, so I have made it my motto to Forever Keep on Reading. I love reading everything except for self-help books, even occasionally. I read almost all the genres but YA, Fantasy, and Biographies are the most read. My favorite series is Harry Potter, but then there are many more books I adore. I have bookcases filled with books that are waiting to be read so I can't stay and spend more time on this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put, I absolutely love reading, so I have made it my motto to Forever Keep on Reading. I love reading everything except for self-help books, even occasionally. I read almost all the genres but YA, Fantasy, and Biographies are the most read. My favorite series is Harry Potter, but then there are many more books I adore. I have bookcases filled with books that are waiting to be read so I can't stay and spend more time on this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
June 4, 2023
I liked how this book ended, but that doesn't excuse the first 3 quarters of this novel that were pretty tedious to say the least.
I mentioned in my review of the first book the importance of character progression to this sort of story. Without the external stakes of an overarching antagonist or larger threat to be working against, it is character progression that drives the plot forward. Besides, this is a "progression" novel, so it makes sense that first and foremost your characters and story needs to keep progressing to remain interesting.
Despite this simple logic, it astounds me how many authors writing this type of story will always forget this rule sooner or later. Normally it's at the point where they've got their main character to a level where growing them any further requires risk as it will probably upset the status quo that they have set for their story. Most authors chicken out at this point as they are afraid to shake up the formula. But without taking that risk they are guaranteeing that their story will become stale and boring because all forward progression has stopped.
I hoped with this series that this author could at least make it through a couple of novels before hitting this wall, but apparently not. The overwhelming majority of character progression for the main characters happen in the final few chapters where the rest of the story is just a string of what feels like meaningless adventures.
There is promise here for more and I'll almost definitely read the next book to see if this story can get back on track. But I can't help but leave this novel feeling pretty disappointed.
It's 2.5 stars for this one that I will round up because I enjoyed it just enough to want to read more.
I mentioned in my review of the first book the importance of character progression to this sort of story. Without the external stakes of an overarching antagonist or larger threat to be working against, it is character progression that drives the plot forward. Besides, this is a "progression" novel, so it makes sense that first and foremost your characters and story needs to keep progressing to remain interesting.
Despite this simple logic, it astounds me how many authors writing this type of story will always forget this rule sooner or later. Normally it's at the point where they've got their main character to a level where growing them any further requires risk as it will probably upset the status quo that they have set for their story. Most authors chicken out at this point as they are afraid to shake up the formula. But without taking that risk they are guaranteeing that their story will become stale and boring because all forward progression has stopped.
I hoped with this series that this author could at least make it through a couple of novels before hitting this wall, but apparently not. The overwhelming majority of character progression for the main characters happen in the final few chapters where the rest of the story is just a string of what feels like meaningless adventures.
There is promise here for more and I'll almost definitely read the next book to see if this story can get back on track. But I can't help but leave this novel feeling pretty disappointed.
It's 2.5 stars for this one that I will round up because I enjoyed it just enough to want to read more.
February 14, 2023
Book two of this series is a direct continuation of book one. Matt, Liz, and Aster the fox are together working to increase in level and grow their skills.
The first quarter of the book is a lot of revision about how the skills work and how to make them work better and more efficiently. Honestly, I found it boring and had to push through until the story started. Matt and Liz decide to move to a new world outside the Empire where they meet another person who isn't on the path but wants to delve the rifts with them. They also meet a seeker who can locate rare treasures but has no idea what they are until they find them.
The story is fine and progresses logically. It wasn't until the last 20% of the book that I laughed out loud multiple times. I wish there was a lot more humor in the book like this.
The stats are as expected, and we see frequent tables along with skill upgrades or exp increases. The editing... I'm not sure what to say other than it's bad. If this was an independently published book I would be less pointed about my comments because not every author has the resources for a professional editor.
Except that this is an Aethon LitRPG book. They put out dozens upon dozens of books each year. Whoever edited this missed a lot. We have commas in the wrong place, incorrect word usage, and a lot more. The poor editing did take me out of the story. The only reason I'm giving the book 5/5* is because the author (I'm guessing) has no control over the editing.
A decent action-adventure story that I'm hoping will get better (and funnier). 5/5* -2 for poor editing if you're so inclined.
The first quarter of the book is a lot of revision about how the skills work and how to make them work better and more efficiently. Honestly, I found it boring and had to push through until the story started. Matt and Liz decide to move to a new world outside the Empire where they meet another person who isn't on the path but wants to delve the rifts with them. They also meet a seeker who can locate rare treasures but has no idea what they are until they find them.
The story is fine and progresses logically. It wasn't until the last 20% of the book that I laughed out loud multiple times. I wish there was a lot more humor in the book like this.
The stats are as expected, and we see frequent tables along with skill upgrades or exp increases. The editing... I'm not sure what to say other than it's bad. If this was an independently published book I would be less pointed about my comments because not every author has the resources for a professional editor.
Except that this is an Aethon LitRPG book. They put out dozens upon dozens of books each year. Whoever edited this missed a lot. We have commas in the wrong place, incorrect word usage, and a lot more. The poor editing did take me out of the story. The only reason I'm giving the book 5/5* is because the author (I'm guessing) has no control over the editing.
A decent action-adventure story that I'm hoping will get better (and funnier). 5/5* -2 for poor editing if you're so inclined.
February 10, 2023
Another amazing book in a series I love
Let me start by saying that while it was amazing and I love the series there is still room for improvement. So without spoiling anything I didn't really find the new temporary party member was half as interesting as other people they partied up with. That is probably my only complaint. It might turn out to have more meaning later in the series who knows? But as it stands I didn't feel like she added much to the group.
This was probably the most anticipated book of the year for me. I'm really happy that the quality of worldbuilding and character growth is continuing in this book. I really enjoyed how they had to deal with a harsh reality and make decisions most would want to avoid. The pace of the plot and action scenes as well as emotional moments where all top quality. Probably one of the best Cultivation series in the last few years.
Let me start by saying that while it was amazing and I love the series there is still room for improvement. So without spoiling anything I didn't really find the new temporary party member was half as interesting as other people they partied up with. That is probably my only complaint. It might turn out to have more meaning later in the series who knows? But as it stands I didn't feel like she added much to the group.
This was probably the most anticipated book of the year for me. I'm really happy that the quality of worldbuilding and character growth is continuing in this book. I really enjoyed how they had to deal with a harsh reality and make decisions most would want to avoid. The pace of the plot and action scenes as well as emotional moments where all top quality. Probably one of the best Cultivation series in the last few years.
February 9, 2023
that’s the stuff
I love this series. Already read everything available on RoyalRoad.
This is released as a serial, which means it doesn’t ‘fit’ novel format *exactly*. The end is slightly cliffhanger-y, as it sets up the next book.
Exploration turning to a golem war, followed by some experimentation and setting up the next book. Solid combat and with some glimpses of true power.
I will pre-order the next book. ‘Baby’s First War’ is excellent, and we get to see some old friends.
I love this series. Already read everything available on RoyalRoad.
This is released as a serial, which means it doesn’t ‘fit’ novel format *exactly*. The end is slightly cliffhanger-y, as it sets up the next book.
Exploration turning to a golem war, followed by some experimentation and setting up the next book. Solid combat and with some glimpses of true power.
I will pre-order the next book. ‘Baby’s First War’ is excellent, and we get to see some old friends.
February 14, 2023
A lot less fun
Way too much angst-y nonsense. All of the battles blur together and lack interesting details or suspense. I enjoyed the first book, but this was a disappointment.
Way too much angst-y nonsense. All of the battles blur together and lack interesting details or suspense. I enjoyed the first book, but this was a disappointment.
June 4, 2024
Imagine everyone around you gets some kind of superpower, but when it's your turn, you are stuck with something that is deemed detrimental even by the most benevolent AI. Want to know what it feels to bamboozle the heck out of a situation like this? Then step with me on the Path of Ascension!
Well, we can't choose the hand we're given, we simply have to play it to the best of our abilities.
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Read this review on the blog - the layout is better 😃.
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Path of Ascension is all about self-improvement in a distant future of humanity (and other types of beings). The story follows the main character - Matt - as he starts to find ways to turn his seemingly useless talent into something that will, sooner or later, rock the universe and all the great powers. It is an underdog story, where the underdog will inevitably turn into the top dog.
In the typical fashion of LitRPG, this is done with talents, levels (called tiers, in this case) and skills. And it is quite clear that the author has done some mathematics about his skills.
I like Matt - well, liking the MC is always something to be desired when reading a series. But I like him for the fact that he is down to earth, makes reasonable decisions and tries to come on top of a situation that seems utterly depressing at first. And he's far from the only likeable character throughout the story!
My opinion on Matt.
Of course, his bond Aster - an ice fox - and his girlfriend are great characters, too, but even some of the "villains" are actually likeable enough, and have a clear purpose they're following.
Another thing I really like is how breathing, living and fleshed out the world of this story feels like. It's almost like another character, and some chapters allow us to glance behind the curtain and see some of the intrigues played out on the higher levels.
Even the political stuff is intriguing enough!
On the downside are a few chapters that feel downright sluggish. Not everything moves the plot forward, and there is a lot of exposition. If that is not your style, you might want to skip - either the series, or a few pages here and there while reading. I think the pace could be better, but then again, this seems to be a common problem for the genre, and it isn't too bad here, overall.
All in all, one of the better LitRPG series so far, with detailed world building and really great characters. 4 out of 5 Phoenix feathers!
*This review is written for books 1 - 6 of the series*
Well, we can't choose the hand we're given, we simply have to play it to the best of our abilities.
******************************
Read this review on the blog - the layout is better 😃.
******************************
Path of Ascension is all about self-improvement in a distant future of humanity (and other types of beings). The story follows the main character - Matt - as he starts to find ways to turn his seemingly useless talent into something that will, sooner or later, rock the universe and all the great powers. It is an underdog story, where the underdog will inevitably turn into the top dog.
In the typical fashion of LitRPG, this is done with talents, levels (called tiers, in this case) and skills. And it is quite clear that the author has done some mathematics about his skills.
I like Matt - well, liking the MC is always something to be desired when reading a series. But I like him for the fact that he is down to earth, makes reasonable decisions and tries to come on top of a situation that seems utterly depressing at first. And he's far from the only likeable character throughout the story!
My opinion on Matt.
Of course, his bond Aster - an ice fox - and his girlfriend are great characters, too, but even some of the "villains" are actually likeable enough, and have a clear purpose they're following.
Another thing I really like is how breathing, living and fleshed out the world of this story feels like. It's almost like another character, and some chapters allow us to glance behind the curtain and see some of the intrigues played out on the higher levels.
Even the political stuff is intriguing enough!
On the downside are a few chapters that feel downright sluggish. Not everything moves the plot forward, and there is a lot of exposition. If that is not your style, you might want to skip - either the series, or a few pages here and there while reading. I think the pace could be better, but then again, this seems to be a common problem for the genre, and it isn't too bad here, overall.
All in all, one of the better LitRPG series so far, with detailed world building and really great characters. 4 out of 5 Phoenix feathers!
*This review is written for books 1 - 6 of the series*
February 17, 2023
I had high hopes for this series but geez, what a letdown. Not sure if I'll continue with this one.
February 17, 2023
This was a good continuation of the series, pretty much sharing the strengths and weaknesses of the first book.
I really enjoy the overall setting and plot for this story. Even when the characters are being a bit lame or cringe, I still like them overall too. This is a series that I would easily recommend to existing gamelit readers, but would have a hard time recommending to people who are new to the genre and used to reading properly edited and traditionally published books.
I really don't want to go on a rant about this, but the writing is by far the weakest link in this series. I try to give the author the benefit of the doubt, but I have a hard time believing much effort went into the editing. A fresh set of eyeballs doing a basic proofing pass would have found so many mistakes, the most common one being typos that resulted in the wrong word being used. Fight instead of Light. Image instead of mage. Scoping instead of scooping. They were everywhere. I know you can report errors while reading on Kindle, but there are so many that I would end up spending too much time reporting errors to stay immersed in the story.
The errors also occurred in bunches, which leads me to believe someone did attempt to edit this, but just did a spotty and poor job. It's really a shame, because with better writing this would easily be a 5-star series and even have the potential to be a favorite of mine within the gamelit/cultivation mixed genre. As it is, I just can't help but get distracted by the poor writing and it diminishes the experience for me.
That being said, I still enjoy the story as a guilty pleasure and look forward to the next installment.
I really enjoy the overall setting and plot for this story. Even when the characters are being a bit lame or cringe, I still like them overall too. This is a series that I would easily recommend to existing gamelit readers, but would have a hard time recommending to people who are new to the genre and used to reading properly edited and traditionally published books.
I really don't want to go on a rant about this, but the writing is by far the weakest link in this series. I try to give the author the benefit of the doubt, but I have a hard time believing much effort went into the editing. A fresh set of eyeballs doing a basic proofing pass would have found so many mistakes, the most common one being typos that resulted in the wrong word being used. Fight instead of Light. Image instead of mage. Scoping instead of scooping. They were everywhere. I know you can report errors while reading on Kindle, but there are so many that I would end up spending too much time reporting errors to stay immersed in the story.
The errors also occurred in bunches, which leads me to believe someone did attempt to edit this, but just did a spotty and poor job. It's really a shame, because with better writing this would easily be a 5-star series and even have the potential to be a favorite of mine within the gamelit/cultivation mixed genre. As it is, I just can't help but get distracted by the poor writing and it diminishes the experience for me.
That being said, I still enjoy the story as a guilty pleasure and look forward to the next installment.
March 27, 2023
Start paying your editor again
This was a real disappointment after book one. Editing quality dropped dramatically, and half of the book is bloated with an uninteresting arc where the characters explore their feelings (and not in a good way). Book picks back up for the last quarter then intentionally leaves you hanging. I can only hope that the editing of the next book is not such a sloppy rush job. When you have errors in the first few paragraphs of the first chapter it just comes across as lazy.
This was a real disappointment after book one. Editing quality dropped dramatically, and half of the book is bloated with an uninteresting arc where the characters explore their feelings (and not in a good way). Book picks back up for the last quarter then intentionally leaves you hanging. I can only hope that the editing of the next book is not such a sloppy rush job. When you have errors in the first few paragraphs of the first chapter it just comes across as lazy.
February 13, 2023
KU Review
Good pacing and enjoyable characters. Nothing but personal preference here, but I liked the focused aspect of the first book as opposed to the breakout quest here and presumably the focus in the next but I won’t stop me from reading it.
As the title says this is a review for Kindle Unlimited and as such is a reflection of my enjoyment of the book and in no way reflects cost to value analysis.
Good pacing and enjoyable characters. Nothing but personal preference here, but I liked the focused aspect of the first book as opposed to the breakout quest here and presumably the focus in the next but I won’t stop me from reading it.
As the title says this is a review for Kindle Unlimited and as such is a reflection of my enjoyment of the book and in no way reflects cost to value analysis.
February 13, 2023
Endless exposition. Author needs to learn to show not tell.
February 9, 2023
So many errors
Typos, plot errors, character swaps... You name it this version has it. I was done reporting errors 20% through, and I feel like I should be paid for editing. Whoever did the proof reading should be fired. Or maybe they already were before doing their job. Whatever the case, I hope corrections happen quickly and thoroughly as this version is so flawed that the story is ruined.
Typos, plot errors, character swaps... You name it this version has it. I was done reporting errors 20% through, and I feel like I should be paid for editing. Whoever did the proof reading should be fired. Or maybe they already were before doing their job. Whatever the case, I hope corrections happen quickly and thoroughly as this version is so flawed that the story is ruined.
October 13, 2024
2024/10/13 Notes:
Enjoyed the concepts & a few of the new characters more than the general plot progression. The dungeon/rift dives & other fight scenes are dull as dirt. Unfortunate for a series that will have a lot of that going on.
I was laughing at the latest upgrades to the main duo. Their broken abilities are even more broken now.
Overall, an uneven transition piece. I think the next book will be more fun.
Enjoyed the concepts & a few of the new characters more than the general plot progression. The dungeon/rift dives & other fight scenes are dull as dirt. Unfortunate for a series that will have a lot of that going on.
I was laughing at the latest upgrades to the main duo. Their broken abilities are even more broken now.
Overall, an uneven transition piece. I think the next book will be more fun.
July 8, 2025
This LitRPG series is progressing nicely. I'm thoroughly enjoying how the world-building and magical systems are unfolding. The characters, both recurring and temporary, are fun. I can't wait for the next book, and I highly recommend experiencing it through the audiobook!
February 10, 2023
Another amazing book. Loved every bit of it.
April 13, 2024
Story only gets better and I read this in a day or two I liked it so much
August 1, 2024
4.5 stars.
August 26, 2025
Filler baby
August 6, 2024
DNF.
Book one was already a bit of a miss for me, however it was just interesting for me to try book two.
This book however took a very dark turn with a lot more murder and styles assaults. Did not care for it at all. Finished just before halfway
Book one was already a bit of a miss for me, however it was just interesting for me to try book two.
This book however took a very dark turn with a lot more murder and styles assaults. Did not care for it at all. Finished just before halfway
September 17, 2023
Slowwwww Burn
This book decided it was going to put the brakes on any sort of progression. The story itself is good but it seems ridiculous to call itself a litrpg adventure if there is no progression for an entire book.
This book decided it was going to put the brakes on any sort of progression. The story itself is good but it seems ridiculous to call itself a litrpg adventure if there is no progression for an entire book.
February 9, 2023
Disappointed
I reread the first book a week before this one was released. I wanted to refresh my memory and had thoroughly enjoyed it. However, by page 272 of this tale I was so fed up with trying to translate what the author is attempting to say that I gave up trying to read more.
There are grammar issues, poor sentence structures, repeated words, comma problems, and basic character development failures.
Flesh Malcolm out and make me dislike him rather than tell me in 3 separate back-to-back paragraphs how fishy he is.
Edit this. Proofread it. And resubmit it.
Page 265 an 266 were the final straw.
I'm sorry, but you did so well on your first book I expect the same quality.
I reread the first book a week before this one was released. I wanted to refresh my memory and had thoroughly enjoyed it. However, by page 272 of this tale I was so fed up with trying to translate what the author is attempting to say that I gave up trying to read more.
There are grammar issues, poor sentence structures, repeated words, comma problems, and basic character development failures.
Flesh Malcolm out and make me dislike him rather than tell me in 3 separate back-to-back paragraphs how fishy he is.
Edit this. Proofread it. And resubmit it.
Page 265 an 266 were the final straw.
I'm sorry, but you did so well on your first book I expect the same quality.
February 5, 2025
Unflattering coverart hides a seriously GOOD LitRPG series.
No spoilers! I have read a lot of these series, I’ve been really into this Isekai/RPG genre the last year or so. I’ve read at least 8 series up to their latest novel, and have sampled some others I didn’t want to go on with. I have to say, I had this book in my wish list for a LONG time. And that is because the coverart just seemed like this was cartoony and maybe campy. But eventually I pulled the trigger.
I’m so glad I did! I love the story, love the world-building, love the magic system, love the characters.
The story is great, and what makes it great is first that it does a great job mixing leveling and grinding with both big events and fights with real people as well as with character and world development. Second is the pacing. The way it weaves these elements together feels seamless. I never feel like skipping ahead when the MC reviews his stats for umpteenth time or when characters rehash topics endlessly as happens so much in other series. Even with battles that last days, the author may bring us in at the climax, or at the first skirmish, and then wrap it up off page and we are there for the aftermath. I love that we aren’t forced to endure page after page of the same skills and combat on various enemies and situations. At this point, we know our MC and what he can do, we don’t need to relive every single moment, just some highlights and the gist. That’s great welting. Third is just the thought that went into the world building, the magical system, and the characters and their development arcs. It feels so seamless, because it was carefully thought out. I can’t find any faults with the logic and decision making of characters within the bounds of what the author already established.
The world building is interesting and unique, I can’t find another series to compare it to. It’s very intriguing and parts of it are mysterious. For instance, I’m so curious as to what Ascension means exactly. There’s also a plethora of higher tiered characters who add depth and historical and political context to the universe the author is building. It seems to be a trope of this genre that most do the series are written entirely from the POV of the MC, this series does focus on the MC but jumps around to give us that needed context. The universe also has rules of war enforced by the society’s elites, even on each other. These rules aren’t simply there as a plot device to allow for progression, but it is woven into the way their world works. The rules make sense in the context of the universe the author had built. That’s next level writing! And so refreshing!
The magic system is very good in a number of ways. First, is that there are not simply an endless amount of classes, races, skills as so many series have, nor are they barely touched upon as happens in others, no there are a set number of levels, called tiers, and there are many skills but there are common ones shared by most tiered people. There are some interesting aspects of uniqueness per individual with their talents, concepts, and aspects which come into play at different, but not set, levels of progression. The combination of these unique talents with this pool of skills that anyone can access, by either buying them or getting lucky and getting them as rewards a system I love which levels the playing field, this combination means people can create their own unique paths up the tiers, and aren’t beholden to skill trees as is so often the case in the more complicated magic systems of some other series.
Finally the characters, live the back story of the characters. They couldn’t be more different, one’s a poor orphan, another the child of some of the most powerful people alive, another a beast evolving into sentience before our eyes. Yet despite those differences, they share values, not just of ambition, but of morality of what they value in others, friendship, kindness, respect, and honesty. There is real depth here with the characters, we see their weaknesses, what they struggle with, how they deal with adversity and mistakes. We are right there while they cope with trauma be it grief for Matt or inferiority for Liz. Finally, we directly address morality and right and wrong. One would think with the disproportion of power in beings of these series, morality would be a necessary part of character development, but it’s rarely addressed. Or if it is, it is done so in an unsatisfying way, such as a mental shrug cause the world is harsh or whatever. Not here, here we return to that topic again, as our characters try to become the people they want to be, not what abilities make them.
Some people may say the MC is overpowered. I would argue this is power fantasy, and that it is more of a trope for an MC to face a series of contrived issues to nerf their potential until the very end. In my opinion, it is much better to embrace what this genre really is instead of stringing us along to see the MC struggle for the sake of itself. The trick is in to giving the people what they want, power fantasy, and just weaving it into a gripping story not following the same old narrative structure we’ve seen countless times.
No spoilers! I have read a lot of these series, I’ve been really into this Isekai/RPG genre the last year or so. I’ve read at least 8 series up to their latest novel, and have sampled some others I didn’t want to go on with. I have to say, I had this book in my wish list for a LONG time. And that is because the coverart just seemed like this was cartoony and maybe campy. But eventually I pulled the trigger.
I’m so glad I did! I love the story, love the world-building, love the magic system, love the characters.
The story is great, and what makes it great is first that it does a great job mixing leveling and grinding with both big events and fights with real people as well as with character and world development. Second is the pacing. The way it weaves these elements together feels seamless. I never feel like skipping ahead when the MC reviews his stats for umpteenth time or when characters rehash topics endlessly as happens so much in other series. Even with battles that last days, the author may bring us in at the climax, or at the first skirmish, and then wrap it up off page and we are there for the aftermath. I love that we aren’t forced to endure page after page of the same skills and combat on various enemies and situations. At this point, we know our MC and what he can do, we don’t need to relive every single moment, just some highlights and the gist. That’s great welting. Third is just the thought that went into the world building, the magical system, and the characters and their development arcs. It feels so seamless, because it was carefully thought out. I can’t find any faults with the logic and decision making of characters within the bounds of what the author already established.
The world building is interesting and unique, I can’t find another series to compare it to. It’s very intriguing and parts of it are mysterious. For instance, I’m so curious as to what Ascension means exactly. There’s also a plethora of higher tiered characters who add depth and historical and political context to the universe the author is building. It seems to be a trope of this genre that most do the series are written entirely from the POV of the MC, this series does focus on the MC but jumps around to give us that needed context. The universe also has rules of war enforced by the society’s elites, even on each other. These rules aren’t simply there as a plot device to allow for progression, but it is woven into the way their world works. The rules make sense in the context of the universe the author had built. That’s next level writing! And so refreshing!
The magic system is very good in a number of ways. First, is that there are not simply an endless amount of classes, races, skills as so many series have, nor are they barely touched upon as happens in others, no there are a set number of levels, called tiers, and there are many skills but there are common ones shared by most tiered people. There are some interesting aspects of uniqueness per individual with their talents, concepts, and aspects which come into play at different, but not set, levels of progression. The combination of these unique talents with this pool of skills that anyone can access, by either buying them or getting lucky and getting them as rewards a system I love which levels the playing field, this combination means people can create their own unique paths up the tiers, and aren’t beholden to skill trees as is so often the case in the more complicated magic systems of some other series.
Finally the characters, live the back story of the characters. They couldn’t be more different, one’s a poor orphan, another the child of some of the most powerful people alive, another a beast evolving into sentience before our eyes. Yet despite those differences, they share values, not just of ambition, but of morality of what they value in others, friendship, kindness, respect, and honesty. There is real depth here with the characters, we see their weaknesses, what they struggle with, how they deal with adversity and mistakes. We are right there while they cope with trauma be it grief for Matt or inferiority for Liz. Finally, we directly address morality and right and wrong. One would think with the disproportion of power in beings of these series, morality would be a necessary part of character development, but it’s rarely addressed. Or if it is, it is done so in an unsatisfying way, such as a mental shrug cause the world is harsh or whatever. Not here, here we return to that topic again, as our characters try to become the people they want to be, not what abilities make them.
Some people may say the MC is overpowered. I would argue this is power fantasy, and that it is more of a trope for an MC to face a series of contrived issues to nerf their potential until the very end. In my opinion, it is much better to embrace what this genre really is instead of stringing us along to see the MC struggle for the sake of itself. The trick is in to giving the people what they want, power fantasy, and just weaving it into a gripping story not following the same old narrative structure we’ve seen countless times.
May 18, 2023
Found my self bored half way through, nothing seems to matter, the events just feels mediocre in the grand scheme of things
November 18, 2023
When Matt, Liz, and Aster go to a new Tier 6 planet, their hopes of finding some untouched treasure quickly leads to disaster. But retreat is no longer an option, and with the dangers multiplying, they will be pressed to their limits just to survive.
This book frustrates me so much. It has both my least favorite arc in the entire series, as well as one of the arcs I like the best.
I read it through again this time to see what changed from the web novel, and I was pleasantly surprised on that front. Camilla's introduction was very controversial in the web novel, and was greatly toned down and reworked for this book. I never had as much of a problem with her character, as she serves to introduce some harder questions for Matt's unbrindled optimism to smack headfirst against. Such as whether or not he's justified in taking justice into his own hands. And what lines he can, or should, be willing to cross.
The golem battle arc is my least favorite arc in the series. For one major reason: the whole series is, as the name implies, about ascending. There's always that thread of hope, of getting stronger, of overcoming challenges and adversity. There's the thrill of a good fight, and the dopamine hit of good loot and new skills or discoveries.
The golem war has none of that. It's a constant barrage of guilt, fear, and frustration as the various authorities who ought to be handling the problem instead either ignore it or try to manipulate things for their own ends. There is no appreciable sense of progression---Matt only chronicles a poorly defined percentage of essence to his next Tier. He does not Tier up, or gain new skills, or change his fighting style, or make new discoveries. No, this is more of a thriller-horror where the whole group is in a running retreat while people constantly die all around them.
Camilla is, sadly, something of an extension of the general depressive atmosphere. Her tragic past is horrifying, and what was meant to be a journey of freedom and self-discovery only leads her to discover she's not ready for it. I would have liked this SO MUCH MORE if Camilla, at least, could have come out of this with some definite win.
The arc after that, however, is one of my favorites, as Matt finally gets a chance to play around with the rift-creation formations he made previously. Rifts have always been a vital part of the series, but for most of it have been more or less handwaved away as backdrop setting. Matt here is starting to peel back what makes a rift tick, and I really like watching his mad science experiments (Aster's reaction to one accidentally perfect rift is just too good). The team is still fighting, but at a more controlled pace, and now it feels like actual progress.
And then a bit of a surprise almost gunks things up, but it leads to something that will be critically important for them going forward.
Overall this book is much more of a mixed bag. I only rate it Recommended because the second part is excellent and it's still more or less required to continue with the series, but I would also suggest readers with a lower tolerance for horror skim the first half.
This book frustrates me so much. It has both my least favorite arc in the entire series, as well as one of the arcs I like the best.
I read it through again this time to see what changed from the web novel, and I was pleasantly surprised on that front. Camilla's introduction was very controversial in the web novel, and was greatly toned down and reworked for this book. I never had as much of a problem with her character, as she serves to introduce some harder questions for Matt's unbrindled optimism to smack headfirst against. Such as whether or not he's justified in taking justice into his own hands. And what lines he can, or should, be willing to cross.
The golem battle arc is my least favorite arc in the series. For one major reason: the whole series is, as the name implies, about ascending. There's always that thread of hope, of getting stronger, of overcoming challenges and adversity. There's the thrill of a good fight, and the dopamine hit of good loot and new skills or discoveries.
The golem war has none of that. It's a constant barrage of guilt, fear, and frustration as the various authorities who ought to be handling the problem instead either ignore it or try to manipulate things for their own ends. There is no appreciable sense of progression---Matt only chronicles a poorly defined percentage of essence to his next Tier. He does not Tier up, or gain new skills, or change his fighting style, or make new discoveries. No, this is more of a thriller-horror where the whole group is in a running retreat while people constantly die all around them.
Camilla is, sadly, something of an extension of the general depressive atmosphere. Her tragic past is horrifying, and what was meant to be a journey of freedom and self-discovery only leads her to discover she's not ready for it. I would have liked this SO MUCH MORE if Camilla, at least, could have come out of this with some definite win.
The arc after that, however, is one of my favorites, as Matt finally gets a chance to play around with the rift-creation formations he made previously. Rifts have always been a vital part of the series, but for most of it have been more or less handwaved away as backdrop setting. Matt here is starting to peel back what makes a rift tick, and I really like watching his mad science experiments (Aster's reaction to one accidentally perfect rift is just too good). The team is still fighting, but at a more controlled pace, and now it feels like actual progress.
And then a bit of a surprise almost gunks things up, but it leads to something that will be critically important for them going forward.
Overall this book is much more of a mixed bag. I only rate it Recommended because the second part is excellent and it's still more or less required to continue with the series, but I would also suggest readers with a lower tolerance for horror skim the first half.
February 12, 2023
Rating 4.0 stars
I was really looking forward to reading this book. I liked the first book a lot, it had what I am looking for most in these types of books. Balance. There was a good mix of different powers, characters, world building, and story. A little bit of everything all mixed together making the whole so much more than the sum of its parts. I got this book as soon as it was released on Audible. I think this one took a step back from the first book. It was still good, but it lost the balance that I thought worked so well in the first book. Liz, Aster and Matt are going to a new world to dive rifts, gain essence and try to find more loot. They are approached by a friend on Liz's parents to bring along a ward of his. She is under his protection, but she wants to go explore. they agree and she becomes a part of their team. She has some issues that she is working out though. They get to the new world and things don't go the way they had planned. Overall, even though there were some hiccups in the beginning of the story, I am very happy with the way this one ended.
I was really looking forward to reading this book. I liked the first book a lot, it had what I am looking for most in these types of books. Balance. There was a good mix of different powers, characters, world building, and story. A little bit of everything all mixed together making the whole so much more than the sum of its parts. I got this book as soon as it was released on Audible. I think this one took a step back from the first book. It was still good, but it lost the balance that I thought worked so well in the first book. Liz, Aster and Matt are going to a new world to dive rifts, gain essence and try to find more loot. They are approached by a friend on Liz's parents to bring along a ward of his. She is under his protection, but she wants to go explore. they agree and she becomes a part of their team. She has some issues that she is working out though. They get to the new world and things don't go the way they had planned. Overall, even though there were some hiccups in the beginning of the story, I am very happy with the way this one ended.
June 26, 2025
A great sequel in the Path of Ascension series.
Majority of the book concentrates on one story arc this time. Which wasn’t necessarily a bad thing. It did feel dragged on at times but it was enjoyable. My only nit pick is that multiple times in this arc our main character Matt brings up how he feels so changed by everything that has occurred in the main arc. Whether from guilt at what his actions caused, being reminded of the grief of his own trauma of rifts causing death and destruction on his home planet as a child, or anger over the treatment and abuse from higher tiers to lower tiers. For it to lead to no change… at all. Like they go back to happy fun trio exploring rifts. Which i love reading their silliness, banter and exploring while building on their skills. But it just felt annoying to keep bringing up how Matt was basically getting a bit traumatised by everything and how it made him feel so different for it to not actually matter. I always feel if you’re going to write about how things are negatively affecting characters then you need to show continuing consequences for it or don’t write it at all.
Otherwise… it was a great read. I enjoy our trio. I love everything that has to do with Aster. Can’t wait to see them grow even more, especially when they get a human form, but I’m going to be heart broken when they have to be separated to the beast kingdom. I love watching Matt and Liz developing their personal builds as they follow the path. It’s creative and fun. While they get enough lucky breaks of getting “power ups” to keep the story moving and keep it interesting it’s not so often or so overpowered where it ruins the realistic feeling of their progression.
I’ve been devouring this series pretty quickly. I’m loving everything about it, I am hoping for more detailed exploration in upcoming books. Especially as they tier up. Seeing more challenging rifts outside of the usual ‘fighting what’s inside’ one’s has a lot of potential. Especially since we know the higher the level the more large the rift is and how long they may be stuck inside. It’s exciting to think about.
On to book three!
Majority of the book concentrates on one story arc this time. Which wasn’t necessarily a bad thing. It did feel dragged on at times but it was enjoyable. My only nit pick is that multiple times in this arc our main character Matt brings up how he feels so changed by everything that has occurred in the main arc. Whether from guilt at what his actions caused, being reminded of the grief of his own trauma of rifts causing death and destruction on his home planet as a child, or anger over the treatment and abuse from higher tiers to lower tiers. For it to lead to no change… at all. Like they go back to happy fun trio exploring rifts. Which i love reading their silliness, banter and exploring while building on their skills. But it just felt annoying to keep bringing up how Matt was basically getting a bit traumatised by everything and how it made him feel so different for it to not actually matter. I always feel if you’re going to write about how things are negatively affecting characters then you need to show continuing consequences for it or don’t write it at all.
Otherwise… it was a great read. I enjoy our trio. I love everything that has to do with Aster. Can’t wait to see them grow even more, especially when they get a human form, but I’m going to be heart broken when they have to be separated to the beast kingdom. I love watching Matt and Liz developing their personal builds as they follow the path. It’s creative and fun. While they get enough lucky breaks of getting “power ups” to keep the story moving and keep it interesting it’s not so often or so overpowered where it ruins the realistic feeling of their progression.
I’ve been devouring this series pretty quickly. I’m loving everything about it, I am hoping for more detailed exploration in upcoming books. Especially as they tier up. Seeing more challenging rifts outside of the usual ‘fighting what’s inside’ one’s has a lot of potential. Especially since we know the higher the level the more large the rift is and how long they may be stuck inside. It’s exciting to think about.
On to book three!
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