


The Ascendance Trilogy
3 books
The Ascendance Trilogy series by Jennifer A. Nielsen has 3 books. Start with The False Prince (2012), then read the rest in the order below.
The Ascendance Trilogy reading order

The False Prince
Jennifer A. Nielsen
In the war-torn kingdom of Carthya, a cunning nobleman orchestrates a dangerous game where four orphans compete in a brutal selection process to determine who will impersonate the king's long-lost son. With the nation teetering on the brink of civil war, the stakes couldn't be higher—the chosen orphan must be convincing enough to fool an entire court while navigating deadly political intrigue and hidden conspiracies. Jennifer A. Nielsen weaves a gripping tale of deception, ambition, and survival as the orphans discover that the competition itself may be far more sinister than they ever imagined. Packed with clever twists and high-stakes tension, this fantasy adventure explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the price of power. Perfect for readers who crave intricate plots and morally complex characters in a richly imagined world.

The Runaway King
Jennifer A. Nielsen
In the treacherous kingdom of Carthya, King Jaron has finally claimed his throne, but his reign is far from secure. An assassination attempt and the looming threat of invasion leave him isolated, with no allies in the royal court, not even his intended bride, Princess Amarinda. Now, Jaron must navigate a labyrinth of deceit and betrayal to protect his kingdom and uncover the truth behind the conspiracies threatening to tear it apart. This thrilling tale explores themes of loyalty, power, and the true meaning of kingship, all within a richly imagined world of political intrigue and high-stakes adventure.

The Shadow Throne
Jennifer A. Nielsen
War has descended upon Carthya, threatening to shatter the kingdom. When the ruthless King Vargan of Avenia kidnaps Imogen as part of a sinister plot, Prince Jaron must undertake a perilous rescue mission. Separated from his allies and facing overwhelming odds, Jaron embarks on a desperate journey to save his kingdom and everyone he holds dear. In this thrilling conclusion, Jaron must confront not only external enemies but also the true meaning of leadership and sacrifice, all while the fate of Carthya hangs precariously in the balance.