I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

An introverted young man discovers he has gained new powers and becomes embroiled in a war between two evil and powerful brothers in author J.M. Shaw’s “The Ascension”, the first book in the Callum Walker series.

The Synopsis

A magical war is brewing. While humankind is blissfully unaware, two evil brothers, a sorcerer and a necromancer, are marshaling deadly supernatural forces and armies of mythical creatures in a bid to destroy one another. The triumphant warlord will be free to impose their dominion over Earth’s natural world and a coexisting magical realm concealed from human knowledge behind an ethereal veil.

Meanwhile, Callum Walker is an introverted young man born with gifts that he struggles to understand. As monsters begin wreaking havoc in his city, Callum is compelled to use his unmastered arcane abilities to combat the growing menace. Unfortunately, the scheming warlords notice his vigilante escapades, and both see Callum as a potential threat.

While coming to terms with his extraordinary powers, Callum discovers a hidden world of magic and a cryptic prophecy that proclaims he will end the warfare now breaching the veil. However, Callum soon finds himself pursued by the agents of both factions, plus those seeking personal sanctuary or offering to help.

Ultimately, Callum Walker must overcome his fears and doubts if he hopes to survive, let alone bring the conflict to an end.

The Review

What a magical and powerful read. The author immediately draws the reader in with both personal internal conflict for the protagonist and terrifying supernatural and magical threats to the world. The action is adrenaline-fueled, and the imagery the author uses brings the visceral nature of the fighting and the creatures that make up this magical world to life in a very cinematic way. The pacing is fast-paced, drawing the reader in early on and laying out the wealth of mythos the author cultivated for this series. 

The heart of the narrative resides in the character developments that bring this story to life. Not only did I immediately resonate with Callum’s story and personal struggles, especially as an introvert with social anxiety myself, but the wide cast of characters gave readers multiple perspectives that captured the chaos of the war between the two evil brothers and the skewed perspectives their allies have of one another, adding to Callum’s growing problems throughout the narrative.

The Verdict

Memorable, thrilling, and entertaining author J.M. Shaw’s “The Ascension” is a must-read dark fantasy meets horror novel and the perfect first entry into this new series. The twists and turns in the novel and the powerful imagery that keeps the reader engaged with this story and the characters involved will drive readers to want more and more from this fantastic author. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

J. M. Shaw lives in Airdrie, Alberta with her husband and two young children. She has a background in x-ray technology, psychology, and personal training, as well variable personal interests in martial arts, airsoft, and running. A diagnosis of autism for herself and both her sons has begun an incredible journey of understanding, acceptance, and life-long learning. She has immensely enjoyed writing creatively for more than thirty years, and with many novels in various degrees of completion. The Ascension is her debut novel in the Callum Walker series.

https://jmshawauthor.com