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Randall Lombardi was born and raised on Long Island, NY. He attended SUNY Geneseo for his undergraduate degree in English, Creative writing. In 2021 Randall taught 7th Grade English in Clarksdale Mississippi. He learned quickly that teaching was not for him. He completed his MA in the spring of 2024 in Library and Information Science. Randall works as head of teen services at a local library. Randall’s debut novel The Ascension releases in 2024.
Reviewed by Tanja Jurkovic for Readers' Favorite
The Ascension by Randall Lombardi is a gripping story told from the point of view of two different characters. Selene and Tera Sue are twin sisters nearing adulthood, finishing school and considering which university to choose. Their safe little world suddenly turns upside down when they discover that curses, magic, witches, and werewolves are real. On the day of their birthday, the girls experience changes that will mark their lives forever. Selene discovers she comes from a long line of witches and has to go through a transformative event called the Ascension, while Tera becomes a victim of a gruesome werewolf curse. With the help of their family and friends, Selene and Tera will try to get their lives back on track, break the curse, and fight the darkness that so abruptly came into their lives.
Randall Lombardi shows control over his story and writing style with vivid descriptions of complex situations and transformations, a strong structure, and a clear vision from the beginning. He uses different points of view to create a cohesive tale full of paranormal and horror elements, which question the relationship between magic and the real world through the characters’ actions. The two sisters are relatable protagonists who go through life fighting for what they believe in, never losing hope for a better world. Lombardi skilfully describes various strong emotions, allowing the audience to feel the same. The Ascension is a notable and enjoyable read that the reader can get lost in, accompanied by great, detailed descriptions and appealing characters.
