When I first read Archangel’s Light way back in 2021, I felt bereft that the ending of the book felt so much like we were leaving Illium and Aodhan at their beginning. I said as much in my review at the time, even as I hoped that it was only the first half of their story. That, in time, we would be gifted with another #Sparklebell book. In truth, I wasn’t at all sure we would be, so I tried to make the best of it by looking at that book from another angle—in another light, as it were. Because it was a beautiful story full of history and friendship and love in all its forms. It answered many lingering questions and asked readers to join Bluebell and Sparkle as they navigated a new world and a changing relationship. I’ve read it again since that first devouring and it holds up as a story that’s not a traditional romance but rather an exploration of what it means to be someone’s someone through all the ups and downs of life. And yet…

I still selfishly wanted more. I wanted to know what happened on Illium’s return to New York City and the revelation of his and Aodhan’s coupling. I wanted to see how they grew together in love and continued to work through all the obstacles that had been and would (no doubt) continue to be thrown in their path. I wanted more kisses and increasingly intimacies and the sure knowledge that they even as their hearts and bodies took flight, they became ever more grounded in each other. I wanted so much for them and for me, a loyal reader who has loved them individually and as a pairing from the moment I met them.

And with this 17th Guild Hunter book, I got it. Guys, I got what I wanted and more from the absolute perfection that was Archangel’s Ascension. Like, I am barely holding back the screaming inner fangirl that wants to tell you every single thing I loved about this book, including but not limited to the amount of times it made me cry (at least seven); the time jump and what that meant for Raphael and Elena and the Seven; the “today” and the “yesterday” that introduced new facets to this world that somehow felt like an ending and a beginning both; the questions answered and the questions asked; and the way it felt like this series had been leading to this moment, to this book, all along.

This was who they’d always been—equals. Controls flowing back and forth. No leader. No follower.
Just Illium and Aodhan.
Sparkle and Bluebell.
Adi and Blue.

The Guild Hunter series is an intricately woven work of art. The world-building is delicate and balanced, and each new book brings with it revelations and discoveries. Archangel’s Ascension is no exception. It is the “heart’s mirror” of Archangel’s Light and the superb writing weaves a story that overflows with emotion and treats its reader to journey that is beyond rewarding. I confessed already to the tears, but what I didn’t mention was that this book also made me happy—I’d be reading and realize that I had a smile plastered on my face. It moved me, literally, bringing my hand to my heart like in doing so I could somehow contain all that I was feeling. It warmed me and bruised me, and I couldn’t have asked for more or for better.

I was lucky enough to read this book in the wake of my best friend. The fact that she already knew all the things meant that I could send her a cascade (pun obviously intended) of messages detailing my wildest guesses for what was to come—one of which actually came true, to my delight—along with how fat and frequent my tears were, and other less fraught musings, such as “when we get our next tattoo, can we add small sparkles to it in honor of Aodhan and Naasir?” (She said yes, in case you were wondering.) In return, she validated my feelings and put into words a thought I was almost afraid to say aloud for fear it might come true: if the Guild Hunter series ended here, with Archangel’s Ascension, it would be as close to perfect as it could possibly be.

Thankfully, it’s not the end of the series. There are more books planned, and though I don’t need them the way I felt like I needed more for Illium and Aodhan, I want them. I can’t wait for them. And if waiting for them pays off as well as waiting and wishing and hoping for a continuation of the story begun in Archangel’s Light did, then it’ll be 100% worth it.

Possibly Nalini's best book ever! Emotional, heart wrenching, puts to bed the questions readers had after the first SparkleBell book (in supremely fitting way).

Thanks to NetGalley and Berkeley for the ARC.

I was alittle disappointed when I read the first page and thought the book was skipping hundreds of years ahead of where we left the series with the last book, but should have faith that Nalini Singh wouldn't do that.

Because she didn't - the book goes back and forth in time, from yes Illium's ascension, to Illium and Aodhan meeting up over the ocean in Archangel's Light, and makes it's way forward from there.

I enjoyed this book and seeing Illium and Aodhan grow as individuals and as a pair together. I also loved having mentions or actually meeting so many of the characters that are the reason I love this series. But there is a part of me that wishes that this book was a little more Sparkle and Blue focused exclusively. Just them as a new couple before we get to them being a solid loving pair that have been together for hundreds of years. I get that they have an advantage in the relationship department because they have known each other since childhood, but I would have liked more of their time as a new romantic couple.

Overall, I wish the book was longer because I feel that's what would have filled in my small complaints. But I think maybe the next chapter of this series will focus on Illium and Aodhan building up their territory and Illium's rule as an archangel, which I would love to see.

Illium and Aodhan together make me cry because they LOVE each other, and Nalini Singh writes them so well. Same with Raphael and Elena, Elena and Illium, and Aodhan and Rapael - basically any combo of these 4 - there is so much love and care there. Shout out to the Sara and Elena relationship, which made me cry without us seeing their interaction in this book.

Which I guess what this book is about - LOVE. The love between romantic couples, friends, and family. I really, really hope I am right about this series continuing because I am not ready to leave any of these characters.

This was such a long time coming and what a beautiful story! In a series of favorite stories, I think this one is my #1. We've waited for so long for Adi and Blue to be together and Singh did it in such a wonderful way. I could gush for a long time about this one, it's one I will reread many times I suspect. Absolutely loved it!

Nalini Singh brings her Guild Hunter world back to life in this deeply emotional, character-driven instalment. The way Aodhan and Illium navigate their feelings for each other turning from friends to lovers, feels raw and genuine. You can feel the weight of their history, the pull of fate, and the fierce desire to stay grounded amidst the chaos of their world. It’s a constant tug-of-war between embracing what’s to come and holding onto what has been. Of course, the world-building is top-notch, as always, with the Tower and its intricate politics playing a key role in their mission. But it’s the characters, their emotions, and their growth that shine through. Singh balances the action and the emotional depth beautifully, weaving them together in a way that keeps you hooked until the very end. Overall, it’s heart-wrenching, beautiful, and ultimately uplifting as Aodhan and Illium embrace their future, together.

Aodhan and Illium are everything. Their chemistry is electric, and watching them finally navigate this shift in their relationship had me hooked from the first page. The tension, the yearning, and of course, Nalini Singh’s signature blend of danger and passion make it impossible not to fall in love. I loved the emotional depth here, especially with Aodhan’s past and the weight of change that threatens to tear them apart. And that ending, absolutely unforgettable. Singh knows how to leave you breathless, always.