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VeilVerse: Cultivating Chaos #4
Cultivating Chaos 4
(Book 4 of 9)
Ash’s life is anything but normal these days.
Having discovered his Dao, he’s grown in power. Grown to the point that others are now aware of him and that he could be a danger.
In this world of martial arts, only the strong and the ruthless survive.
Everyone else is merely a stepping stone on their path of Cultivation, or an obstacle to be overcome.
Or knocked down.
It’s a world where the strong rule, and the weak die.
Utilizing the Hall, the voice in his head that calls itself Locke, those who have aligned with his faction, and all the powers available to him, Ash has begun his own journey of Cultivation.
Except that as a Fated One, his journey is a narrow and winding path between two cosmic forces. Each one vying for dominance.
That doesn’t even take into account the prison he's been sent to by the Emperor. Except he's not going to stay there very long if he can help it.
That or take it over completely.
This is his fourth step in his life as a Cultivator.
Ash’s life is anything but normal these days.
Having discovered his Dao, he’s grown in power. Grown to the point that others are now aware of him and that he could be a danger.
In this world of martial arts, only the strong and the ruthless survive.
Everyone else is merely a stepping stone on their path of Cultivation, or an obstacle to be overcome.
Or knocked down.
It’s a world where the strong rule, and the weak die.
Utilizing the Hall, the voice in his head that calls itself Locke, those who have aligned with his faction, and all the powers available to him, Ash has begun his own journey of Cultivation.
Except that as a Fated One, his journey is a narrow and winding path between two cosmic forces. Each one vying for dominance.
That doesn’t even take into account the prison he's been sent to by the Emperor. Except he's not going to stay there very long if he can help it.
That or take it over completely.
This is his fourth step in his life as a Cultivator.
433 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2023
247 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 5, 2025
Cultivating Chaos 4 (VeilVerse: Cultivating Chaos, #4) by William D. Arand
Rating: ⭐ (1/5)
Review:
William D. Arand's "Cultivating Chaos 4" furthers the series' descent into literary chaos, abandoning any semblance of coherent storytelling. This installment not only fails to redeem the flaws of its predecessors but adds new layers of confusion, resulting in a narrative quagmire that tests the patience of even the most dedicated readers.
The attempt to expand the VeilVerse universe only exacerbates the existing issues. Rather than building on established foundations, Arand introduces convoluted concepts and magical systems that lack explanation or purpose. The result is a narrative landscape that feels like a random assortment of fantastical elements without a guiding thread.
Character development, a fundamental aspect of engaging storytelling, remains conspicuously absent. Protagonists and supporting characters drift aimlessly through the plot, devoid of meaningful arcs or motivations. New additions to the character roster only contribute to the narrative clutter, leaving readers with a sense of detachment from the unfolding events.
Arand's writing style, far from providing clarity, adds to the overall confusion. Clunky prose, awkward dialogue, and inconsistent tone persist, hindering any attempts at immersion. The humor, which perhaps was intended to lighten the narrative, falls flat, failing to inject much-needed levity into the increasingly chaotic storyline.
The plot, if it can be called such, meanders without purpose, and the lack of a clear central conflict or resolution leaves readers adrift in a sea of unresolved narrative threads. Rather than tying up loose ends, "Cultivating Chaos 4" introduces new complications, further entangling the already convoluted narrative.
In conclusion, "Cultivating Chaos 4" is a disheartening continuation of a series that seems determined to cultivate confusion at the expense of coherent storytelling. William D. Arand's latest installment does little to redeem the series, instead offering a frustrating and bewildering reading experience that leaves more questions than answers.
Rating: ⭐ (1/5)
Review:
William D. Arand's "Cultivating Chaos 4" furthers the series' descent into literary chaos, abandoning any semblance of coherent storytelling. This installment not only fails to redeem the flaws of its predecessors but adds new layers of confusion, resulting in a narrative quagmire that tests the patience of even the most dedicated readers.
The attempt to expand the VeilVerse universe only exacerbates the existing issues. Rather than building on established foundations, Arand introduces convoluted concepts and magical systems that lack explanation or purpose. The result is a narrative landscape that feels like a random assortment of fantastical elements without a guiding thread.
Character development, a fundamental aspect of engaging storytelling, remains conspicuously absent. Protagonists and supporting characters drift aimlessly through the plot, devoid of meaningful arcs or motivations. New additions to the character roster only contribute to the narrative clutter, leaving readers with a sense of detachment from the unfolding events.
Arand's writing style, far from providing clarity, adds to the overall confusion. Clunky prose, awkward dialogue, and inconsistent tone persist, hindering any attempts at immersion. The humor, which perhaps was intended to lighten the narrative, falls flat, failing to inject much-needed levity into the increasingly chaotic storyline.
The plot, if it can be called such, meanders without purpose, and the lack of a clear central conflict or resolution leaves readers adrift in a sea of unresolved narrative threads. Rather than tying up loose ends, "Cultivating Chaos 4" introduces new complications, further entangling the already convoluted narrative.
In conclusion, "Cultivating Chaos 4" is a disheartening continuation of a series that seems determined to cultivate confusion at the expense of coherent storytelling. William D. Arand's latest installment does little to redeem the series, instead offering a frustrating and bewildering reading experience that leaves more questions than answers.
May 10, 2023
I really wanted to give this a better rating, but I just couldn't. I found my eyes rolling and my attention wandering due to all of the protestations of how much everyone loves one another or whatever. Seemed to take up most of the page count.
As far as the actual story, that may have been 100 pages or so out of the whole thing. The MC really doesn't amount to much in the narrative, but I remember earlier books when he did more. I really don't see myself reading 5 more of these books if this downward trend continues.
All of the things I'm complaining about here are hallmarks of the author's work to date. Recently however I find that it's taking over, and the story is a distant second to fetishistic mutual affirmations of love, etc. I had to put this down several times when it became too much and almost didn't finish it. Lots of people seem to like that stuff more than I do, so YMMV as always.
As far as the actual story, that may have been 100 pages or so out of the whole thing. The MC really doesn't amount to much in the narrative, but I remember earlier books when he did more. I really don't see myself reading 5 more of these books if this downward trend continues.
All of the things I'm complaining about here are hallmarks of the author's work to date. Recently however I find that it's taking over, and the story is a distant second to fetishistic mutual affirmations of love, etc. I had to put this down several times when it became too much and almost didn't finish it. Lots of people seem to like that stuff more than I do, so YMMV as always.
July 23, 2024
As a Xinxiang novel this series fails because they missed the point of cultivation, it is sadly a common trend in the genre as of late. Despite that, it is an enjoyable action oriented fantasy book, the plot keeps progressing, and the pacing is well though. Some decision of character development and interaction could be improved.
April 29, 2023
Same as the others, a soft reboot.
A new setting with a limited cast to restart the story. This is the third series to do this. And none of them have anything new or interesting. This is a quick read of the same old stuff.
A new setting with a limited cast to restart the story. This is the third series to do this. And none of them have anything new or interesting. This is a quick read of the same old stuff.
September 27, 2023
Overall I like the series so far
Book 1 - The story is pretty good, but the author keeps repeating Chosen one and remember this moment way way too much. If it wasn’t for this I’d rate book 1 as 5 stars
Book 2 - Again the story was pretty good. Again the author repeat the phrases too much. It was annoying beyond belief.
Book 3 - The harem side starts to come into play. Not my favorite aspect of the series. Otherwise, the story is decent. The author lightens up on repeating the phrases. Still gets annoying.
Book 4 - The story degrades a bit more with the harem side taking up more of the story. To give the author some credit, the harem side is not as graphic as some other books I’ve read.
Overall, I do like the story. I dislike the MC really isn’t the fighter his harem women do most of the fighting. The MC fights are somehow OP without him really cultivating. Locke is the one who cultivates for him. Book 4 leaves me with mixed emotions about the series. I’m not a big fan of harem series and this is my fault for not understanding what kind of book series this is. Cover art was a big hint but I was a bit slow on the up take. In my defense, the cover art on the first two books was misleading. The author needs to stop using those phrases so much.
Book 1 - The story is pretty good, but the author keeps repeating Chosen one and remember this moment way way too much. If it wasn’t for this I’d rate book 1 as 5 stars
Book 2 - Again the story was pretty good. Again the author repeat the phrases too much. It was annoying beyond belief.
Book 3 - The harem side starts to come into play. Not my favorite aspect of the series. Otherwise, the story is decent. The author lightens up on repeating the phrases. Still gets annoying.
Book 4 - The story degrades a bit more with the harem side taking up more of the story. To give the author some credit, the harem side is not as graphic as some other books I’ve read.
Overall, I do like the story. I dislike the MC really isn’t the fighter his harem women do most of the fighting. The MC fights are somehow OP without him really cultivating. Locke is the one who cultivates for him. Book 4 leaves me with mixed emotions about the series. I’m not a big fan of harem series and this is my fault for not understanding what kind of book series this is. Cover art was a big hint but I was a bit slow on the up take. In my defense, the cover art on the first two books was misleading. The author needs to stop using those phrases so much.
May 15, 2023
bravo! superb!
Okay Arand! This is what I NEED! Man, this is what I’m talkin bout’ son! I loved this book! Book four ruled! My word this book was simply amazing! Ash has found his groove and he is getting his boogie on! I’m so happy this have progressed the way it has. I just knew, absolutely knew things would get ugly with the person upstairs… learning the things we’ve learned so far is crazy and kinda makes sense and kinda answers some questions while making you ask more. Arand is brilliant in this. I love how Locke is such a cuddle kitten now. I am loving his core brides. I am happy that his core brides have improved and are including more of the women I like. I’m still cheering hardcore fore lifen, biyu and Liu! I’m just waiting for someone to get their heart eaten… you know that “person” is going to be a major player… the person who also was wearing a “chain” that gave chunhua, tala and Hui a run for their money I’m wondering if he escaped the “box”… I’m excited and pumped for the next book! Get a move on Arand! 😂😂 onward lads!
Okay Arand! This is what I NEED! Man, this is what I’m talkin bout’ son! I loved this book! Book four ruled! My word this book was simply amazing! Ash has found his groove and he is getting his boogie on! I’m so happy this have progressed the way it has. I just knew, absolutely knew things would get ugly with the person upstairs… learning the things we’ve learned so far is crazy and kinda makes sense and kinda answers some questions while making you ask more. Arand is brilliant in this. I love how Locke is such a cuddle kitten now. I am loving his core brides. I am happy that his core brides have improved and are including more of the women I like. I’m still cheering hardcore fore lifen, biyu and Liu! I’m just waiting for someone to get their heart eaten… you know that “person” is going to be a major player… the person who also was wearing a “chain” that gave chunhua, tala and Hui a run for their money I’m wondering if he escaped the “box”… I’m excited and pumped for the next book! Get a move on Arand! 😂😂 onward lads!
May 25, 2024
Unfortunately this really follows on form the previous books by again doubling down on the harem with again "crazy, broken" girl that Ash fixes and who then automatically becomes dangerously obsessed with him.
As to the setting of the story, when it isn't being derailed by how much every one is obsessed/loves the MC, we find him trapped in the "prison" that is first described as being a cube mostly filled with a ruined city, which includes the main guarded prison area and confusingly also the city of Wahst and some wild land. Unfortunately the author doesn't seem to have decided what this area actually is as other cities are randomly introduced. Are these in the ruined city? Out in the wilds? As no scale is ever mentioned and the whole area seems to change on the authors whim it's very confusing.
As to the setting of the story, when it isn't being derailed by how much every one is obsessed/loves the MC, we find him trapped in the "prison" that is first described as being a cube mostly filled with a ruined city, which includes the main guarded prison area and confusingly also the city of Wahst and some wild land. Unfortunately the author doesn't seem to have decided what this area actually is as other cities are randomly introduced. Are these in the ruined city? Out in the wilds? As no scale is ever mentioned and the whole area seems to change on the authors whim it's very confusing.
December 5, 2023
It's sad that the author's quality has dropped so much over the years. He just reuses characters from his different series, and give them new names and faces.
It seems we have another "I'm your weapon" type person here. Can't remember which series used those.
It's really a slog when I have to read the author's relationship crap, along with how this series is slowly turning into the author's other books, only with cultivation.
I like the story, I like the protagonist's use of his mind and resources to solve issues. I hate how some seemingly forced relationship crap is shoehorned in as much as possible. It's so bad that they repeat the same crap over and over. Ugh.
Will read the sequel.
2.5/5 Stars
It seems we have another "I'm your weapon" type person here. Can't remember which series used those.
It's really a slog when I have to read the author's relationship crap, along with how this series is slowly turning into the author's other books, only with cultivation.
I like the story, I like the protagonist's use of his mind and resources to solve issues. I hate how some seemingly forced relationship crap is shoehorned in as much as possible. It's so bad that they repeat the same crap over and over. Ugh.
Will read the sequel.
2.5/5 Stars
May 3, 2023
Continuing a very intriguing story.
Lots of interesting characters, called brides of Sheng as Ash takes over the prison that the emperor dumped him in. New allies to develop, new enemies to conquer and Qi magic to develop, limited only by imagination. Although I must say that I enjoyed the first 2 books of the series most, as the characters were being introduced and developed. Also some of the magic theory and VeilVerse infrastructure is overly esoteric and hard to absorb, to me, takes away from the story telling. Still, its an excellent series thats very creative and as I said before, I love the characters and their interactions.
Lots of interesting characters, called brides of Sheng as Ash takes over the prison that the emperor dumped him in. New allies to develop, new enemies to conquer and Qi magic to develop, limited only by imagination. Although I must say that I enjoyed the first 2 books of the series most, as the characters were being introduced and developed. Also some of the magic theory and VeilVerse infrastructure is overly esoteric and hard to absorb, to me, takes away from the story telling. Still, its an excellent series thats very creative and as I said before, I love the characters and their interactions.
March 20, 2024
Better than the last book.
A great improvement over the last book. It had a good storyline with a decent ending. The only issue I have with this book and with the last one is that despite it being supposedly a cultivation storyline. The cultivation in this book is treated as if it’s background noise. There are many times in this story where it talks about the main character having an upcoming tribulation or some rank advancement, and then it is not mentioned again. The tribulation or rank advancement, somehow happens in the background and is never talked about. In fact most of the time one cannot even tell at what level of cultivation the main character is.
A great improvement over the last book. It had a good storyline with a decent ending. The only issue I have with this book and with the last one is that despite it being supposedly a cultivation storyline. The cultivation in this book is treated as if it’s background noise. There are many times in this story where it talks about the main character having an upcoming tribulation or some rank advancement, and then it is not mentioned again. The tribulation or rank advancement, somehow happens in the background and is never talked about. In fact most of the time one cannot even tell at what level of cultivation the main character is.
September 1, 2023
Unexpected unsettling
It took me 2 tries to finish the last part of volume 3 and I borrowed and returned this volume half a dozen times before I was able to finish it. It is completely different from any work of William Arand I have read so far. I divide harem stories into 2: one where there is a lot of action; others where it is a cross between a soap opera and erotica. Where, a lot is said but very little is done. This unfortunately is of the second type and I was forced to skim through it. I hope the next volume is better
It took me 2 tries to finish the last part of volume 3 and I borrowed and returned this volume half a dozen times before I was able to finish it. It is completely different from any work of William Arand I have read so far. I divide harem stories into 2: one where there is a lot of action; others where it is a cross between a soap opera and erotica. Where, a lot is said but very little is done. This unfortunately is of the second type and I was forced to skim through it. I hope the next volume is better
June 13, 2024
Little story movement. Getting stale.
The most frustrating issue with this series is the main characters dialogue pander and validate each other, instead of adding to the story it is complete filler, because they say the same things to each other over and over without moving the story, plot, relationships, or flesh out unique personalities. The book is tiresome and weak at its worst, mildly interesting during fight scenes. 90% of the book feels like filler and it's boring to read.
The most frustrating issue with this series is the main characters dialogue pander and validate each other, instead of adding to the story it is complete filler, because they say the same things to each other over and over without moving the story, plot, relationships, or flesh out unique personalities. The book is tiresome and weak at its worst, mildly interesting during fight scenes. 90% of the book feels like filler and it's boring to read.
May 13, 2023
Ashley Sheng
This was a really interesting installment of the Veilverse! I really love Ashley compared to his cousin Trav, who is so much more intense due to his history as a slave. The balance between battles and love is admirable in this story. I love how William can balance so many characters and give them so much personality while giving each character a chance to shine and contribute to the story.
This was a really interesting installment of the Veilverse! I really love Ashley compared to his cousin Trav, who is so much more intense due to his history as a slave. The balance between battles and love is admirable in this story. I love how William can balance so many characters and give them so much personality while giving each character a chance to shine and contribute to the story.
October 22, 2024
just fell off for me
The first 2 books were good, the 3rd was okay but this just completely fell off for me the cringe of the harem was too much to keep reading.
I didn’t mind it at the start as the story would still progress and it was still a good cultivation novel but it’s literally every single page now with Locke and it’s so cringey. A shame as i thought it would still keep to the flow of the first few books.
The first 2 books were good, the 3rd was okay but this just completely fell off for me the cringe of the harem was too much to keep reading.
I didn’t mind it at the start as the story would still progress and it was still a good cultivation novel but it’s literally every single page now with Locke and it’s so cringey. A shame as i thought it would still keep to the flow of the first few books.
April 30, 2023
Chaotic Ride
This series is strange. New characters, abilities, factions, and secrets manifest with no foreshadowing and minor reactions from the characters.
Yet, the pacing is engaging and the characters are oddly comfortable.
A combination of minor typos and "that came from nowhere" moments dropped a star, but I still recommend the series.
This series is strange. New characters, abilities, factions, and secrets manifest with no foreshadowing and minor reactions from the characters.
Yet, the pacing is engaging and the characters are oddly comfortable.
A combination of minor typos and "that came from nowhere" moments dropped a star, but I still recommend the series.
May 11, 2023
Good addition to the series
Good story line and creative uses of strengths of the characters.
I want to see more variety of when a character gets flustered\embarressed other than " I...yes .....of course" ECT it gets old quick and gives me a sense of laziness.
I do like the story just need to ignore certain irritating stutter speak.
Good story line and creative uses of strengths of the characters.
I want to see more variety of when a character gets flustered\embarressed other than " I...yes .....of course" ECT it gets old quick and gives me a sense of laziness.
I do like the story just need to ignore certain irritating stutter speak.
May 17, 2023
What an epic tale!
The continued adventures of Ash Sheng reaches new heights, as the battles carry on into new and exciting realms. The OP outlander moves to secure the safety of his brides, culminating in a series of epic battles, as he transforms the prison into yet another home, brutally smashing any who threaten him and his.
The continued adventures of Ash Sheng reaches new heights, as the battles carry on into new and exciting realms. The OP outlander moves to secure the safety of his brides, culminating in a series of epic battles, as he transforms the prison into yet another home, brutally smashing any who threaten him and his.
April 30, 2023
loved it
Always love this series and this is a good continuation! Even if you don’t always love the author you should read this series as it is very very entertaining and full of excitement!!
Always love this series and this is a good continuation! Even if you don’t always love the author you should read this series as it is very very entertaining and full of excitement!!
May 5, 2023
Once again very Enjoyable.
Great, I can think of no better way to describe this book.
It took me to another place In the VailVerse and gave me a enjoyable story.
Has me surprised and shocked several.
I an looking forward to the next book.
Thanks again W. D. Arand loved it.
Great, I can think of no better way to describe this book.
It took me to another place In the VailVerse and gave me a enjoyable story.
Has me surprised and shocked several.
I an looking forward to the next book.
Thanks again W. D. Arand loved it.
May 8, 2023
Incredible!!!
Another exciting, excellent adventure in the world this author has created for our imagination!!! Absolutely my favorite series bar none!!!! I personally can't wait to see the Emperor get what they deserve lol!!!!
Another exciting, excellent adventure in the world this author has created for our imagination!!! Absolutely my favorite series bar none!!!! I personally can't wait to see the Emperor get what they deserve lol!!!!
May 8, 2023
A change of pace
When Ash was banished I wasn't sure what to expect. I really liked how this turned out though as it's a new start for him to develop from nothing again. I loved how it went and can't wait to see what comes next.
When Ash was banished I wasn't sure what to expect. I really liked how this turned out though as it's a new start for him to develop from nothing again. I loved how it went and can't wait to see what comes next.
May 12, 2023
A good book.
The story was very interesting and I enjoyed how the author did not leave it with a cliffhanger endings again. The world building was well done but I really want to know what happened to Yue.
The story was very interesting and I enjoyed how the author did not leave it with a cliffhanger endings again. The world building was well done but I really want to know what happened to Yue.
May 17, 2023
Power does what it wants
Ash continues to grow in power and so does everyone around him. That is one of the most fun things about this book. There are small steps and giant leaps all wrapped up in a wild ride.
Ash continues to grow in power and so does everyone around him. That is one of the most fun things about this book. There are small steps and giant leaps all wrapped up in a wild ride.
May 21, 2023
It them coming
Please keep writing about one of my very favorite series!!
I love Ashley Agent and his sect! I look forward for the next book and the storyline keeps me glued until the end.
Please keep writing about one of my very favorite series!!
I love Ashley Agent and his sect! I look forward for the next book and the storyline keeps me glued until the end.
July 31, 2023
Just read Fostering Faust again
Character progression in this book is lackadaisical at bet. It's essential the same recycled formula from all of Arand's work. Just a different setting. I don't know why I bothered reading it in the first place.
Character progression in this book is lackadaisical at bet. It's essential the same recycled formula from all of Arand's work. Just a different setting. I don't know why I bothered reading it in the first place.
April 30, 2023
Good book
I like that he is writing more books in this series.
I like all the new characters, him even bringing old characters.
I like that he is writing more books in this series.
I like all the new characters, him even bringing old characters.
April 30, 2023
good story
Really good story. I can’t wait for him to break out of the prison in go on his journey. 👍
Really good story. I can’t wait for him to break out of the prison in go on his journey. 👍
April 30, 2023
very good
This book has been a very good read. It also has a lot of interesting twists and turns. Hope to see characters that have gone missing in the next one.
This book has been a very good read. It also has a lot of interesting twists and turns. Hope to see characters that have gone missing in the next one.
May 5, 2023
Amazing
As always another amazing addition to the veiled verse I love the story and its natural flow and the characters are amazing and experience realistic growth
As always another amazing addition to the veiled verse I love the story and its natural flow and the characters are amazing and experience realistic growth
May 6, 2023
Very good book
This is a fine fantasy harem cultivator adventure novel. It is well written and edited. I especially like Locke and Tala. I anxiously await the sequel.
This is a fine fantasy harem cultivator adventure novel. It is well written and edited. I especially like Locke and Tala. I anxiously await the sequel.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews