Ascendant

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The Wizard's Council of Tarador was supposed to tell young Koren Bladewell that he is a wizard. They were supposed to tell everyone that he is not a jinx, that all the bad things that happen around him are because he can't control the power inside him, power he doesn't know about. The people of his village, even his parents, are afraid of him, afraid he is cursed. That he is a dangerous, evil jinx. The Wizard's Council didn't tell young Koren, because they know what is best for him. Even after their silent deception destroys his life.

Crown Princess Ariana Trehayme will become queen of Tarador on her sixteenth birthday, if her weak, indecisive mother the Regent hasn't allowed their ancient enemy to conquer Tarador before then. Ariana wants her royal army to strike at the enemy, but her mother knows what is best for her, and the realm.

Together, Ariana and Koren can save Tarador, if the adults, who know best, will get out of their way.

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Updated 04/22/2025

Category: Fantasy

Release date: January 12, 2016

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Craig Alanson

Craig Alanson is a master of blending action-packed space adventures with humor and relatable characters, making him a standout voice in the realm of science fiction. Known primarily for his Expeditionary Force series, Alanson has captivated readers with his ability to craft thrilling stories filled with wit, heart, and high-stakes drama. His unique approach to storytelling combines fast-paced action, intricate world-building, and deep character development, which has earned him a dedicated following and solidified his place as a bestselling author.

Born and raised in the United States, Craig Alanson discovered his passion for writing later in life, but it didn’t take long for his creative talents to shine. His first major success came with Columbus Day, the first book in the Expeditionary Force series, which quickly gained popularity for its fresh take on space opera. The series follows the adventures of Joe, an average man who finds himself caught up in an intergalactic conflict, all while accompanied by a sarcastic, artificial intelligence named Skippy the Magnificent. This series exemplifies Alanson's talent for blending humor and suspense, along with his knack for creating complex, dynamic characters that resonate with readers.

Alanson’s writing style is marked by sharp dialogue, clever twists, and an engaging narrative pace that keeps readers hooked from one book to the next. His works often feature themes of survival, friendship, and the importance of adaptability in the face of overwhelming odds, with a perfect mix of lighthearted moments and intense, life-or-death scenarios. His distinctive voice and ability to balance humor with high tension has garnered praise from readers and critics alike.

Throughout his career, Craig Alanson has continued to expand his literary universe, with multiple series and stand-alone novels that continue to captivate fans of space opera, military sci-fi, and even urban fantasy. His books have been praised for their imaginative plots, relatable characters, and knack for keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Whether crafting intricate alien worlds or diving into the complexities of human relationships in the vastness of space, Alanson's stories are as engaging as they are entertaining.

Now a full-time author, Craig Alanson resides in the United States and continues to write stories that blend humor, science fiction, and adventure into compelling narratives. With each new book, he further cements his reputation as one of the leading voices in modern science fiction, with his Expeditionary Force series and other works finding devoted fans around the world.

Photo: Andrew Liptak

Ascendant

Ascendant takes readers on a pulse-pounding ride through a universe where power, ambition, and survival collide in unexpected ways. The series follows the story of a protagonist who, thrust into an unfamiliar galaxy filled with intergalactic politics, ancient technologies, and powerful forces, must navigate this chaotic world while uncovering truths that could reshape everything.