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Warriors of the Way #1
The Spiritual Warriors
Ten years after training with renowned martial arts Master Wu Wei, Dante is sent to attend a special promotion. After participating in the promotion, Dante finds himself thrust into the hidden world of the Spiritual Warriors, a group of men and women, fighters with special abilities who are trained and dedicated to keeping this plane of existence safe from evil.
He discovers that a war has been raging between the Warriors, those sworn to protect this plane of existence from destruction and the Shadows, those who would see it enslaved under the rule of evil. After being captured by Sylk, one of the last Karashihan, an ancient sect of Warriors, Dante, manifests an eternal weapon of immense power. This weapon, which has moved from host to host through time, uses the darker side of the psyche, driving its host to unspeakable evil.
Dante must learn to harness this power without succumbing to the darkness, in order to confront the entity that wants to conquer this plane of existence.
Together with a group of Warriors; Dante embarks on a mission to stay alive. Facing several enemies, even a secret faction within the Warriors- the Black Lotus; he fights those who would rather see him dead than unleash the power of his weapon. They will travel through several planes, called the Mirror, and avoid the dangers that reside within them in order to unlock the secret abilities that will allow him to use his weapon and ultimately defeat the entity that would destroy them all.
The Black Lotus, the Warriors covert assassins have been tasked with finding Dante and preventing him from ever unleashing the power his weapon contains. Dante must use all of his skill and ability while relying on those sworn to keep him safe, to stay one step ahead of them in order to fulfill his mission.
Through their travels, Dante discovers that his weapon contains a vastly powerful being that has been imprisoned within his weapon, and is willing to do anything to escape, even kill. In order to fully control his weapon Dante must unravel the mystery of this being, who it was and who was powerful enough to imprison it.
Unknown to all, Sylk has been able to track the progress of the entity he calls the Dark One. The entity is preparing to take over their plane amassing a great force in various parts of the Mirror, and is closer to achieving his goal than the Warriors may believe. Despite the risk of Dante being turned by the darkness that resides in his weapon, Sylk believes that the unlocking and harnessing this weapon is the only chance they have to survive and is willing to stake his and everyones life on it.
He discovers that a war has been raging between the Warriors, those sworn to protect this plane of existence from destruction and the Shadows, those who would see it enslaved under the rule of evil. After being captured by Sylk, one of the last Karashihan, an ancient sect of Warriors, Dante, manifests an eternal weapon of immense power. This weapon, which has moved from host to host through time, uses the darker side of the psyche, driving its host to unspeakable evil.
Dante must learn to harness this power without succumbing to the darkness, in order to confront the entity that wants to conquer this plane of existence.
Together with a group of Warriors; Dante embarks on a mission to stay alive. Facing several enemies, even a secret faction within the Warriors- the Black Lotus; he fights those who would rather see him dead than unleash the power of his weapon. They will travel through several planes, called the Mirror, and avoid the dangers that reside within them in order to unlock the secret abilities that will allow him to use his weapon and ultimately defeat the entity that would destroy them all.
The Black Lotus, the Warriors covert assassins have been tasked with finding Dante and preventing him from ever unleashing the power his weapon contains. Dante must use all of his skill and ability while relying on those sworn to keep him safe, to stay one step ahead of them in order to fulfill his mission.
Through their travels, Dante discovers that his weapon contains a vastly powerful being that has been imprisoned within his weapon, and is willing to do anything to escape, even kill. In order to fully control his weapon Dante must unravel the mystery of this being, who it was and who was powerful enough to imprison it.
Unknown to all, Sylk has been able to track the progress of the entity he calls the Dark One. The entity is preparing to take over their plane amassing a great force in various parts of the Mirror, and is closer to achieving his goal than the Warriors may believe. Despite the risk of Dante being turned by the darkness that resides in his weapon, Sylk believes that the unlocking and harnessing this weapon is the only chance they have to survive and is willing to stake his and everyones life on it.
387 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 3, 2012
144 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
About the author
Orlando A. Sanchez
104 books589 followersOrlando Sanchez has been writing ever since his teens when he was immersed in creating scenarios for playing Dungeon and Dragons with his friends every weekend. An avid reader, his influences are too numerous to list here. Some of the most prominent are: J.R.R. Tolkien, Jim Butcher, Kat Richardson, Terry Brooks, Piers Anthony, Lee Child, George Lucas, Andrew Vachss, and Barry Eisler to name a few in no particular order.
The worlds of his books are urban settings with a twist of the paranormal lurking just behind the scenes and generous doses of magic, martial arts, and mayhem.
Aside from writing, he holds a 2nd and 3rd Dan in two distinct styles of Karate. If not training, he is studying some aspect of the martial arts or martial arts philosophy.
He currently resides in Queens, NY with his family and can often be found in the local Starbucks where most of his writing is done.
Please visit his site at: www.OrlandoASanchez.com for more information about his books and upcoming releases.
The worlds of his books are urban settings with a twist of the paranormal lurking just behind the scenes and generous doses of magic, martial arts, and mayhem.
Aside from writing, he holds a 2nd and 3rd Dan in two distinct styles of Karate. If not training, he is studying some aspect of the martial arts or martial arts philosophy.
He currently resides in Queens, NY with his family and can often be found in the local Starbucks where most of his writing is done.
Please visit his site at: www.OrlandoASanchez.com for more information about his books and upcoming releases.
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
November 27, 2021
Fast paced action adventue
There was a lot of action, and adventure. The pace moved well and let the reader go on a journey with the characters. Interesting use of martial arts, Asian concepts, fantastic locations, and characters. Definitely a great way to start the series.
There was a lot of action, and adventure. The pace moved well and let the reader go on a journey with the characters. Interesting use of martial arts, Asian concepts, fantastic locations, and characters. Definitely a great way to start the series.
March 27, 2016
this book reminded me a little about a film called the last dragon...a fun film where the main character was learning self defence but couldnt find the glow...
this book is a little like that starts off with the main character starting self defence classes and then gets pulled into all sorts of realms and mystic swords....and planes of existence...
some interesting characters on the way
all in all the story line kept me interested enough to finish the book as it flowed really well...
this book is a little like that starts off with the main character starting self defence classes and then gets pulled into all sorts of realms and mystic swords....and planes of existence...
some interesting characters on the way
all in all the story line kept me interested enough to finish the book as it flowed really well...
April 2, 2020
Very entertaining
Martial arts and fantasy in modern-day NYC. It was very engaging. I had no idea what to expect, but being a fan of Orlando Sanchez’ other books, I gave this series a try. I really enjoyed this new world of reluctant hero Dante and martial arts. The martial arts is definitely an important aspect of the story, but you can enjoy the story without understanding all the fight descriptions and specialized words. I thought the ending was too abrupt, as if the story clearly continues but someone decided this book had reached enough pages. But I recommend this series for sure, especially if you like Sanchez’ work.
Martial arts and fantasy in modern-day NYC. It was very engaging. I had no idea what to expect, but being a fan of Orlando Sanchez’ other books, I gave this series a try. I really enjoyed this new world of reluctant hero Dante and martial arts. The martial arts is definitely an important aspect of the story, but you can enjoy the story without understanding all the fight descriptions and specialized words. I thought the ending was too abrupt, as if the story clearly continues but someone decided this book had reached enough pages. But I recommend this series for sure, especially if you like Sanchez’ work.
December 10, 2016
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
This was a really interesting story combining martial arts and magic. It grabbed my attention from the very beginning when Dante arrived at the new dojo and began his "test" to see who would advance to the next level. It kept my attention until the very end. It was action packed with the backstory filled in between action scenes. The story showed the ethical decisions Dante must choose without long-winded discussions. I would very definitely recommend this book to everyone.
This was a really interesting story combining martial arts and magic. It grabbed my attention from the very beginning when Dante arrived at the new dojo and began his "test" to see who would advance to the next level. It kept my attention until the very end. It was action packed with the backstory filled in between action scenes. The story showed the ethical decisions Dante must choose without long-winded discussions. I would very definitely recommend this book to everyone.
December 4, 2023
This is the first of a series. Unfortunately, it's doesn't also work as a standalone so you're left without any closure at the end of this book. Fine if you plan to read the series. Not so fine if you don't. The lead is an unsympathetic protagonist. Not much to like. Hopefully as the series goes along, he will grow into someone deserving of the reader's interest. Lot of potential for the series, but it wasn't achieved here.
July 20, 2019
Ok, I like books from Sanchez, but this one doesn't read like his. First book in the series and I have no clue about the main characters..how old is D or Zen? How do they go from training to magic so easily? What the neck is going on? Why is it that Anna does and yet her father or anyone even cares? This book is all over and no depth at all. Confusing and lackluster.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2020
A more serious Sanchez
If you love strong character and plot development, you will want to read this series, but if you enjoy quirky characters, and animals like Frank, Rags, and Peaches, you may be disappointed. This series is still Sanchez at his best, but without the quirks I love in His writing.
If you love strong character and plot development, you will want to read this series, but if you enjoy quirky characters, and animals like Frank, Rags, and Peaches, you may be disappointed. This series is still Sanchez at his best, but without the quirks I love in His writing.
November 25, 2020
Great start to a series!
I came about this through the M&S series. I was a little reluctant as the outline seemed very different from his past work. Well I am glad I took the chance!
Great read, wonderful pace and characters. Great world building and story telling.
Highly recommended so far!!
I came about this through the M&S series. I was a little reluctant as the outline seemed very different from his past work. Well I am glad I took the chance!
Great read, wonderful pace and characters. Great world building and story telling.
Highly recommended so far!!
June 22, 2021
Book 1....
if this was book 1 and was that good what will the next ones be like. I like this author and have been following another series they write and decided I would chance this . It nothing like the other series but is is just as well written and the unfolding strife just as good. Waiting patiently for the next book.
if this was book 1 and was that good what will the next ones be like. I like this author and have been following another series they write and decided I would chance this . It nothing like the other series but is is just as well written and the unfolding strife just as good. Waiting patiently for the next book.
August 24, 2023
Orlando’s books are always enjoyable.
I have read nearly every book Orlando Scanchez has written. I find them enjoyable and entertaining. I like that his characters do the morally correct thing no matter the high price they may pay as a result of their actions. This book was no exception!
I have read nearly every book Orlando Scanchez has written. I find them enjoyable and entertaining. I like that his characters do the morally correct thing no matter the high price they may pay as a result of their actions. This book was no exception!
August 30, 2018
Awesome details and storytelling
I think you are a genius tho be able to tell such complex and detailed stories that keep the reader wanting more and more. I love the way you bring these characters to life. Please keep it coming.
I think you are a genius tho be able to tell such complex and detailed stories that keep the reader wanting more and more. I love the way you bring these characters to life. Please keep it coming.
February 19, 2019
I loved it
This is my second time reading this book I think I enjoyed it more than the first time. It moves fast very enjoyable but just what I expected from this author he has quickly become a favorite.
This is my second time reading this book I think I enjoyed it more than the first time. It moves fast very enjoyable but just what I expected from this author he has quickly become a favorite.
June 23, 2017
Couldn't finish it. Not my cup of tea.
May 19, 2019
Great Read
Very creative story. Good characters and lots of action. Parallel universe hoping gets pretty crazy. looking forward to the next book.
Very creative story. Good characters and lots of action. Parallel universe hoping gets pretty crazy. looking forward to the next book.
May 23, 2019
21% of the way in and it was still plotless
Well this was a big disappointment. I gave up waiting for a storyline. Thrust, parry, ouch, ooh he has powers, everyone falls down.
Well this was a big disappointment. I gave up waiting for a storyline. Thrust, parry, ouch, ooh he has powers, everyone falls down.
July 21, 2019
A great blend of martial arts and the paranormal, and wonderful characters on a quest!
December 13, 2025
Couldn’t finish the book pg 43 (ritual of two)
July 14, 2017
A really intriguing world created by the author.
Dante, a skilled martial arts practitioner suddenly finds himself immersed in the midst of facets of the world he never knew existed. Called to be a part of the Warriors of the Way, he muddles his way through a continuing series of bizarre encounters.
Warriors for good and evil, sort of, it's just difficult sometimes to work out exactly who is who. Shades of grey, which always make for a more interesting and thought-provoking read.
Well written and paced, compelling fight scenes and some surprising twists that keeps the reader nicely off balance.
The characters are well drawn and easy to relate to and no sign of annoying angst-ridden, whining young adults, the lack of which is always welcome.
A fascinating journey for Dante which has only just begun. Glad I have all the books in the series so that I can tiptoe behind him and watch as he develops his skills and grows further as an individual.
Definitely a series worth checking out!
Dante, a skilled martial arts practitioner suddenly finds himself immersed in the midst of facets of the world he never knew existed. Called to be a part of the Warriors of the Way, he muddles his way through a continuing series of bizarre encounters.
Warriors for good and evil, sort of, it's just difficult sometimes to work out exactly who is who. Shades of grey, which always make for a more interesting and thought-provoking read.
Well written and paced, compelling fight scenes and some surprising twists that keeps the reader nicely off balance.
The characters are well drawn and easy to relate to and no sign of annoying angst-ridden, whining young adults, the lack of which is always welcome.
A fascinating journey for Dante which has only just begun. Glad I have all the books in the series so that I can tiptoe behind him and watch as he develops his skills and grows further as an individual.
Definitely a series worth checking out!
March 9, 2015
So good! I loved this book. It was amazing. There was so much action and adventure in this book, I just couldn't seem to put this one down. I loved the main character Dante! Dante finds himself thrust into a group of warriors who have special powers. Dante and his warriors embark on quite the journey and try to stop evil from taking over. Through all his journeys, Dante discovers himself and some of his special powers. I found that he was a great and strong character who wouldn't let evil take over him. He was relentless and I loved his spirit. The writing style in this book is very adventurous and makes for such a fun read. This is a book that I truly couldn't get enough of and I loved how much time that the author put into making such a fun piece. I'm going to be reading the second book in the series.
September 2, 2016
When I started this book I thought maybe I wouldn't like it. It started with some sort of martial arts promotion. Not my normal type of book. But I continued, and I'm glad I did. The story really caught my attention and it did not take me long to finish. There is a lot going on, so many different people want Dante for different reasons. Nothing is resolved in this book, but I also don't feel like I was left hanging waiting to start the next book. I feel like the author did not do a good job at conveying when time was passing. At one point, Zen was leaving to get supplies that he said should take about an hour. Meanwhile Dante and Meja are having a conversation, and after a few sentences Zen is back. Over all it was an enjoyable read.
January 27, 2015
This book was full of action and excitement. I loved the main character Donte. He was so easy to connect with and fun to read about. The adventures that he went on with the spiritual warriors. I enjoy science fiction a lot, so this book was right up my alley. The author has done a great job of providing an interesting cast of characters that delight the imagination. The writing style is also descriptive and made me feel as though I was right there in the action. This was a tough book to put down. I actually read this in one setting as it was just that good. After reading the first book, I knew that I would have to read the second. I would highly recommend this series.
March 19, 2016
The book starts with what seems to be an everyday event of martial arts training however what would be a normal progression test turns out to be so much more.
Without giving anything away all I can say is this has been written just right. A story that grabs your attention, teaches you the basics and then jumps into the deep end and takes off at a fast pace.
I look forward to reading more of the series as there are twists and turns I must find the answers too. Does Sylk keep his word, and do our group of travellers find what they require. What is the big evil? Too many questions to contemplate but hopefully answers will be given over the course of the,series.
Without giving anything away all I can say is this has been written just right. A story that grabs your attention, teaches you the basics and then jumps into the deep end and takes off at a fast pace.
I look forward to reading more of the series as there are twists and turns I must find the answers too. Does Sylk keep his word, and do our group of travellers find what they require. What is the big evil? Too many questions to contemplate but hopefully answers will be given over the course of the,series.
February 2, 2016
Magic and martial arts, and it's a wonderful combination. Dante is our hero and he shows up at a dojo for a promotion test. Next thing you know he's at some school with no memory of how he got there. Some of the others who stood for the promotion are there as well. And we're off! We follow Dante as he trains with Devin and learns the Way of the Warrior. Weapons materialize, hands glow and other magical events keep you guessing. This is book 1 of 3. I would very much like to see what happens next.
June 16, 2016
This is a very interesting series! It draws you in, and it goes so fast that sometimes I'm like what?? But the twists and turns, the dialog, the characters, and the world the author created are awesome! I can't put the series down! I highly recommend it!
November 4, 2024
I do enjoy Orlando's stories quite a lot. The biggest problem I have with them is the past-tense verbs. Seeing "ed" at the of dive rather than dove, leapt, etc just twitches my proof-reader radar and knocks me out of the reading headspace.
May 21, 2016
Brilliant and complicated.
A master piece that you have to focus on and emerse yourself in to get the best out of the story line. Awesome start to what looks like an amazing series.
A master piece that you have to focus on and emerse yourself in to get the best out of the story line. Awesome start to what looks like an amazing series.
June 17, 2016
Yep ... I liked this .. Will have to read the next one
August 12, 2016
Next, next I need the next one!
June 7, 2021
5 star - Perfect
4 star - i would recommend
3 star - good
2 star - struggled to complete
1 star - could not finish
4 star - i would recommend
3 star - good
2 star - struggled to complete
1 star - could not finish
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews