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Deceptions

Ascendant #3 / 4
by Craig Alanson
Deceptions (Ascendant #3) by Craig Alanson
not yet rated

Koren Bladewell now knows he is a wizard, but he is lost in the wilderness, cut off from help and unable to use his powers. The enemy is poised at the border with an overwhelming invasion force, and it will take wizards, soldiers and a young, untested princess to hold off defeat long enough for Koren to be trained and grow into his power. But he might not wish to help those who deceived him and destroyed his life

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Updated 04/22/2025
Category: Fantasy
Release date: January 1, 2018

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Craig Alanson

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.

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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.

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At its core, Ascendant is not just about exploration; it's a journey of self-discovery, as the protagonist grapples with the vast potential of their new abilities. Each challenge they face, each new planet they encounter, shapes them into something far greater than they ever imagined. The universe itself becomes a character—alive, unpredictable, and filled with opportunities that could either be a curse or a blessing.

The world-building in Ascendant is intricate and expansive, weaving together elements of science fiction, military strategy, and political intrigue. The settings range from sleek, high-tech spaceships to ancient ruins buried beneath alien worlds, all contributing to a dynamic atmosphere that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The balance between thrilling action scenes and thoughtful character development makes this series stand out in the genre, offering more than just laser battles and starship confrontations.

The protagonist's arc is one of the most compelling aspects of Ascendant—their growth from a relatively ordinary individual to someone with the power to influence the fate of entire civilizations is both believable and satisfying. Along the way, they encounter allies and adversaries who challenge their beliefs, forcing them to reconsider what it means to wield such power.

As Ascendant unfolds, readers will find themselves drawn into a universe brimming with tension and mystery, where each decision has the potential to tilt the balance of power. With its perfect blend of fast-paced action, deep lore, and complex character relationships, this series invites you to explore a universe unlike any other, where the stakes are higher, and the rewards—if you can survive them—are immeasurable.


Ascendant consists of three books — series is set to expand with the upcoming release of one more book. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.

Ascendant (Ascendant #1)
not yet rated
Transcendent (Ascendant #2)
  ★ 10.00 / 1
Deceptions (Ascendant #3)
not yet rated
Ascendant Book 4 (Ascendant #4)
  ⧗ 9.72 / 14


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