Ever since Rhys McGowan was a boy, he’s only wanted two things: power and love.

Now, as High Priest of Boston’s premiere Secret Society, husband to his adoring witch wife Moira, and partner to David – his psychic rival-turned-boyfriend, Rhys is finally at peace. But when a strange ritual rocks Boston’s occult community, and opens the Society up to sabotage, Rhys delves even deeper into the dark world of demon-summoning. He’s used to carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders, but the strain of managing so many spirits (not to mention the stress of his loved ones exploring other people) will push him to the brink.

As heaven and hell play tug of war for Rhys’ soul, he’ll have to face the greatest demon of all: his own insatiable ambition.

This the second book in the bestselling Summoner’s Circle series

In Ascension by S.T. Gibson, the story is complex and magical. The second book in the Summoner’s Circle series, the novel drops the reader into the story right after the events of the first book after David and Rhys have reunited and Rhys has become High Priest of their secret society. One of the elements I loved in the first book and in this one as well, is the viewpoint alternating between Rhys, David and Moira so we get to see the complexity of their relationships and the communication between all three. I love that even though David is not sexually interested in Moira, he deeply cares and respects her. The three personalities in the story are very strong and I love how their relationship is a dance, a navigation between all three of them. 

I like that Rhys makes mistakes, learns and changes. Much of the story, while delving into the magical world around them, is focused on love and communication, learning the trust your partners, and learning in some important ways how to submit to that trust, to see matters in new and different perspectives. I love the magical world building but it is the relationship between Rhys, Moira and David that keeps me engaged. 

If you like powerful stories about magic and loving relationships that involve trust and communication, this novel is for you. While there is conflict between all three, they ultimately navigate those difficulties using communication, trust and love and I find that a heady combination that is complex and magical. I also like that we get a great and happy ending for all three. I can’t wait to see more of this world and these characters. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 demons

Penguin RandomHouse

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