Ascendance
Ascendance is a 2-book audiobook series by Jennifer A. Nielsen. Every entry below includes narrator ratings, listening context, and a clear verdict — start with Runaway King (The Ascendance Series, Book 2).
Books in This Series
Runaway King (The Ascendance Series, Book 2)
Solid sequel where a clever teenage king abandons his throne to save it, featuring pirates and political intrigue. Charlie McWade's narration captures Jaron's chaotic energy perfectly.
Shadow Throne (The Ascendance Series, Book 3)
Shadow Throne wraps up the Ascendance trilogy with high stakes but diminishing returns - Jaron's schemes feel formulaic by book three, and McWade's narration coasts on the charm established in earlier installments. A satisfactory conclusion, not a triumphant one.
📖 Reading Order
Books are listed in recommended listening order. For the best experience, we suggest starting from Book #1 and progressing through the series sequentially.
Ready to listen free?