Ascent: Book Two: Chronicles of M'Gistryn

Three friends, their only guide a battle-hardened old soldier, continue the search to understand and master the power they have uncovered. But first, Lieutenant Tristan Loringham must stand trial for his actions in the mountains near Doverton, leading them back to their homeland - Zondrell, the Great City by the Seacliffs. Here, the battlefield is much different, the enemy hidden behind layers of political corruption and intrigue. Continue the journey of young Tristan, Alexander, and Andella as they learn more about the mysterious magic that seems to have become their birthright. Was it really told in prophecies? Are they the only ones of their kind in the world?

Praise for Chronicles of M'Gistryn:

"Anastasia M. Trekles takes readers on an epic adventure in her debut novel Core. Told from the perspective of multiple characters, Core borrows familiar elements of our world to create a thrilling fantasy filled with intrigue, action, and romance. The characters are engaging with witty banter and personalities that sprawl across the page. Trekles masterfully guides readers through worlds rich with lore, but never bogs down the prose with too much description or exposition. She has a keen sense of a modern reader's imagination and deftly transports us through time and space. Trekles has a deep understanding of the fantasy genre and weaves a tale that will satisfy anyone who appreciates a great story told well. This novel establishes the foundation for a series of books and invites a reader back for more."

-S.E. White, author of A Murder of Crows

"Wondrously imagined! M'Gistryn is a realm rich with possibilities. The characters are rich in detail, and the plotting just complex enough to grab your interest and not let go!" -Jay Erickson, author of The Blood Wizard Chronicles Series "Simply amazing! Characters who actually behave like adults! This novel is highly recommended!"

-J.P. Strohm, coauthor of Exactors: Tales from the Citadel

About the Author

Dr. Anastasia Trekles is an instructional designer, educator, and animal welfare volunteer in the Northwest Indiana region. While she might not have graduated from the Zondrell Magic Academy, she has spent a fair amount of time around schools, as well as technology and all things science fiction and fantasy.

The world of M'Gistryn is a world completely her own, but she can trace her inspiration to everything from Final Fantasy to Star Wars, from Harry Potter to the Sopranos, from Ancient Rome to feudal Europe, and from Christianity to Buddhism. There is much more to M'Gistryn than magic and prophecies - it's a world full of real people, struggling with real situations and real emotions.

In her debut novel, Core, she explores issues of war, coming of age, and the fulfillment of our life's purpose. As the story continues, her characters continue to struggle in a world where philosophies clash, questions abound, and intrigue lurks around every corner.