The Ruinous Curse

The King's Ascent

By: Mark K. McClain

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

The King’s Ascent brings Barrett’s long and bruising journey to its peak. With his friends by his side, he faces the final push against Apadora’s curse, the treachery of those he once loved, and the crushing weight of decisions that could end or save entire worlds.

I loved how the story kept its momentum, never letting up for long, and the constant clashes and arguments gave the book an energy that pulled me through without pause. I was hooked by the constant turmoil between the characters. At the same time, there were moments of beauty that kept me grounded.

The King’s Ascent is a grim, emotional, and fitting conclusion to the saga. It’s a book for readers who crave fantasy that doesn’t shy away from sorrow, who enjoy characters wrestling with their worst selves as much as their enemies, and who want the messy, tangled finish to a story about love, loyalty, and the high cost of leadership.

Thomas Anderson / Editor In Chief / Literary Titan / 5 Star Rating


If Barrett and his companions survive the Outerworld they will return to Westmore to bring about the Bureau’s downfall. Under the present rule of Grimes and King Carick, the kingdom continues to decline. The people are dominated by insane men who only accept total control, submission, and all magic users imprisoned or put to death.

To save their home, the friends must remove the tyrants. But the task will be harder than imagined as their plans fail at every attempt. Making things worse, the wizard Elimar is nowhere to be found and the sorceress, Trishar, is confined to her house under the watchful eyes of Bureau Agents.

Now, Barrett must use all his cunning and powers to free Westmore from the vile grasp of the Bureau, regain his throne, and rebuild the city. Standing in his way are an evil wizard, armies of hired killers, Mystical Affairs, and Grimes himself, who has more secrets than anyone could have guessed.