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A Thousand Li #10
A Thousand Li: the Fourth Stage: An Epic Progression Fantasy Novel
Change is the only constant
Returning to the Verdant Green Waters sect over a decade after his exile, Wu Ying finds his position and place within the Sect in flux. Strong enough to be an Elder but not having achieved his rank via the normal methods, he has jealous and worried rivals to contend with. It is reminiscent of his own past, but now, he's an Elder and able to enact transformation in a broader sense.
Wu Ying must find his own place in the sect or leave it once and for all. The cultivation wounds he received in the south trouble him, and it will require time and resources - resources the Sect is able to provide - for him to stabilize his footing before he continues his climb to ascension. As with all things, immortality is never easy to grasp.
Returning to the Verdant Green Waters sect over a decade after his exile, Wu Ying finds his position and place within the Sect in flux. Strong enough to be an Elder but not having achieved his rank via the normal methods, he has jealous and worried rivals to contend with. It is reminiscent of his own past, but now, he's an Elder and able to enact transformation in a broader sense.
Wu Ying must find his own place in the sect or leave it once and for all. The cultivation wounds he received in the south trouble him, and it will require time and resources - resources the Sect is able to provide - for him to stabilize his footing before he continues his climb to ascension. As with all things, immortality is never easy to grasp.
437 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2024
315 people are currently reading
385 people want to read
About the author
Tao Wong
140 books964 followersTao Wong is the author of the A Thousand Li progression fantasy series and the System Apocalypse LitRPG series, among others. His work has been released in audio, paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats, and translated into German, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, and several other languages. He was shortlisted for the UK Kindle Storyteller Award in 2021 for A Thousand Li: The Second Sect. In 2026, the first three books in the A Thousand Li series will be republished in hardcover by Ace Books.
When he’s not writing or working, he enjoys practicing martial arts, reading, and dreaming up new worlds. He lives in Toronto, Canada.
When he’s not writing or working, he enjoys practicing martial arts, reading, and dreaming up new worlds. He lives in Toronto, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
July 1, 2024
A slower book, more focused on sect politics and study. Still good, but didn't feel like it really went anywhere. Some neat references to past books. Nice to see some old faces again. But this series lacks a core cast. A stable, set group of characters to focus on. It bounced around a bit to much, only the protagonist is constant.
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March 1, 2024A Thousand Li: The Fourth Stage is out now on Amazon, Audible and Kindle Unlimited!
This is the final arc of the A Thousand Li series. Wu Ying is within spitting distance of immortality. Of course, there are still obstacles in the way, his injuries being among them. Decades of work are left, and while he might have settled into the Verdant Green Waters sect, trouble will still find him.
Let's just say we might be visited by other, older enemies...
If you read and enjoyed the book, don't forget to download the bonus epilogue.
This is the final arc of the A Thousand Li series. Wu Ying is within spitting distance of immortality. Of course, there are still obstacles in the way, his injuries being among them. Decades of work are left, and while he might have settled into the Verdant Green Waters sect, trouble will still find him.
Let's just say we might be visited by other, older enemies...
If you read and enjoyed the book, don't forget to download the bonus epilogue.
March 2, 2024
slicing life
This is more sedentary than previous books. The MC isn’t rushing around, engaging in battles or having adventures. There are some political machinations and several philosophical discussions.
Looking forward to the continuing saga.
This is more sedentary than previous books. The MC isn’t rushing around, engaging in battles or having adventures. There are some political machinations and several philosophical discussions.
Looking forward to the continuing saga.
March 9, 2024
This book serves as filler, not much unfolds beyond slow mundane daily events. While I don't mind this aspect, things took a turn for the worse when politics entered the picture. I would have preferred if the main character had chosen to depart from the sect rather than endure mistreatment. Also, the unnecessary death of a beloved character from earlier installments was disappointing and unnecessary.
March 2, 2024
Disjointed mess
This is a huge disjointed mess, there's little snow coherence story in the lot. It is more a loosely connected collection of short stories, most of which have no resolution themselves
This is a huge disjointed mess, there's little snow coherence story in the lot. It is more a loosely connected collection of short stories, most of which have no resolution themselves
May 22, 2024
A captivating recount of the inconsequential
This is, by all measures, a beautiful book.
It is not only inspired and masterfully assembled, but it is also skillfully told. And how could it not? Tao Wong is a blessed Twitter who continuously evolves for the better and is a talented man.
So it was such a great disappointment in terms of plot.
If the hero had returned to renounce his gathering years to dedicate himself to the Department of Accounting and Bureaucratic Affairs, I would have felt less betrayed by the words “the story continues”.
The story does not continue; it had a stroke and requires urgent therapy to recover coherency and return to its roots. Fast-paced narrative is replaced by never-ending prose and words that presumptively were added to fill a certain number of words.
If this had been advertised as an interlude between works and stated like that, this would have been one of the best books in the series.
But I don't particularly appreciate coming to a book to find the purpose of it was to present another book for the sake of numbers.
Yet I still beg you to read A Thousand Li by Tao Wong, but perhaps skip this one. This book does not make justice to his style, his imagination or this story.
This is, by all measures, a beautiful book.
It is not only inspired and masterfully assembled, but it is also skillfully told. And how could it not? Tao Wong is a blessed Twitter who continuously evolves for the better and is a talented man.
So it was such a great disappointment in terms of plot.
If the hero had returned to renounce his gathering years to dedicate himself to the Department of Accounting and Bureaucratic Affairs, I would have felt less betrayed by the words “the story continues”.
The story does not continue; it had a stroke and requires urgent therapy to recover coherency and return to its roots. Fast-paced narrative is replaced by never-ending prose and words that presumptively were added to fill a certain number of words.
If this had been advertised as an interlude between works and stated like that, this would have been one of the best books in the series.
But I don't particularly appreciate coming to a book to find the purpose of it was to present another book for the sake of numbers.
Yet I still beg you to read A Thousand Li by Tao Wong, but perhaps skip this one. This book does not make justice to his style, his imagination or this story.
February 1, 2025
You can't go back home
Wu Ying returns to the Verdant Green Waters sect and it's a Sh*tshow from day one.
But what a shock! The sect that didn't care if he lived or died and exploited him at every turn, ...Still doesn't care if he lives or dies and is going to exploit him at every turn. (Surprised Pikachu meme )
You would think that going from student to master would earn this guy some respect, but you'd have forgotten that as a student he didn't represent a threat to the greedy, jealous, or the insecure.
Never the less, I enjoyed this book. There is a lot in it despite it not being a traditional adventure story.
Wu Ying returns to the Verdant Green Waters sect and it's a Sh*tshow from day one.
But what a shock! The sect that didn't care if he lived or died and exploited him at every turn, ...Still doesn't care if he lives or dies and is going to exploit him at every turn. (Surprised Pikachu meme )
You would think that going from student to master would earn this guy some respect, but you'd have forgotten that as a student he didn't represent a threat to the greedy, jealous, or the insecure.
Never the less, I enjoyed this book. There is a lot in it despite it not being a traditional adventure story.
July 7, 2025
Wonderful continuation of the series is eye opening to see the inner activity of the sect, the internal politics and faction’s fight. How despite every faction vying for their own advancement they know how to keep it in and not personal enough to try to assassinate each other. Is enlightening how the author shows the implications of following immortality and the relationship with mortals, especially how affect family and friends. The scene with Yu Wing parents was precious.
December 6, 2024
"Unveiling 'The Fourth Stage (A Thousand Li #10)': A Journey through Cultivation Fiction"
Rating: ★★★★☆
Tao Wong's "The Fourth Stage (A Thousand Li #10)" marks another captivating installment in the popular cultivation fiction series. As the culmination of a saga filled with martial arts, mystical realms, and personal growth, this book delivers a satisfying conclusion while also reflecting on the broader landscape of the cultivation genre.
Wong's storytelling prowess shines once again in "The Fourth Stage," as he expertly weaves together intricate plotlines and dynamic character development. Protagonist Long Wuwei's journey to master the fourth stage of cultivation is fraught with challenges, both internal and external, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
One of the strengths of "The Fourth Stage" lies in its exploration of themes such as perseverance, self-discovery, and the pursuit of power. Wong deftly delves into the complexities of the cultivation world, offering readers not only exhilarating action sequences but also moments of introspection and philosophical contemplation.
In comparison to its contemporaries in the cultivation fiction genre, "The Fourth Stage" stands out for its balanced blend of action, intrigue, and character-driven storytelling. While other series may focus primarily on flashy combat or intricate world-building, Wong manages to strike a harmonious balance between these elements, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Titles such as "Cradle" by Will Wight and "A Will Eternal" by Er Gen offer similar themes of cultivation and personal growth, but "The Fourth Stage" distinguishes itself through its unique setting, well-developed characters, and thematic depth. Wong's attention to detail and commitment to crafting a rich and immersive world set "The Fourth Stage" apart as a standout entry in the genre.
Overall, "The Fourth Stage (A Thousand Li #10)" delivers a satisfying conclusion to Long Wuwei's journey while also showcasing Wong's talent as a storyteller. With its compelling narrative, well-rounded characters, and thematic richness, this book cements its place as a must-read for fans of cultivation fiction. With a rating of four out of five stars, "The Fourth Stage" is a worthy addition to any reader's collection.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Tao Wong's "The Fourth Stage (A Thousand Li #10)" marks another captivating installment in the popular cultivation fiction series. As the culmination of a saga filled with martial arts, mystical realms, and personal growth, this book delivers a satisfying conclusion while also reflecting on the broader landscape of the cultivation genre.
Wong's storytelling prowess shines once again in "The Fourth Stage," as he expertly weaves together intricate plotlines and dynamic character development. Protagonist Long Wuwei's journey to master the fourth stage of cultivation is fraught with challenges, both internal and external, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
One of the strengths of "The Fourth Stage" lies in its exploration of themes such as perseverance, self-discovery, and the pursuit of power. Wong deftly delves into the complexities of the cultivation world, offering readers not only exhilarating action sequences but also moments of introspection and philosophical contemplation.
In comparison to its contemporaries in the cultivation fiction genre, "The Fourth Stage" stands out for its balanced blend of action, intrigue, and character-driven storytelling. While other series may focus primarily on flashy combat or intricate world-building, Wong manages to strike a harmonious balance between these elements, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Titles such as "Cradle" by Will Wight and "A Will Eternal" by Er Gen offer similar themes of cultivation and personal growth, but "The Fourth Stage" distinguishes itself through its unique setting, well-developed characters, and thematic depth. Wong's attention to detail and commitment to crafting a rich and immersive world set "The Fourth Stage" apart as a standout entry in the genre.
Overall, "The Fourth Stage (A Thousand Li #10)" delivers a satisfying conclusion to Long Wuwei's journey while also showcasing Wong's talent as a storyteller. With its compelling narrative, well-rounded characters, and thematic richness, this book cements its place as a must-read for fans of cultivation fiction. With a rating of four out of five stars, "The Fourth Stage" is a worthy addition to any reader's collection.
March 27, 2024
I saw the other guy's review about this book being only a filler and refused to acknowledge it because I was really excited about this book simply because of its Title, "Fourth Stage." I admit I love most that has happened, but I have some things I didnt like when I was nearing its end, especially about just one major thing...
*Spoiler alert*
The Title is very misleading, should have been Fourth Cut\Form, I'm simply basing this from one of his earlier ones "The Third Cut." See it in my perspective, So if you have read "The Third Cut," and you see the Title of the 10th book as "Fourth Stage," there is only one thing you could think of, and given what has happened at 9th book, adding also the beginnings of this book itself, it will only leave you to imagine and assume so, that yeah, it MIGHT be about THAT THING after all, only in the end you become very annoyed for you realize the Title is misleading. Out of all the books I have read and I am new to this thing since last year only, I was compelled to do a review just so I was that annoyed. But in the end I still liked it overall somehow, the journey, I just didnt like the misleading part, didnt know if it was intentional or leaning on the fact that it did delve on THAT topic too, but it was not the major concern of this book.
*Spoiler alert*
The Title is very misleading, should have been Fourth Cut\Form, I'm simply basing this from one of his earlier ones "The Third Cut." See it in my perspective, So if you have read "The Third Cut," and you see the Title of the 10th book as "Fourth Stage," there is only one thing you could think of, and given what has happened at 9th book, adding also the beginnings of this book itself, it will only leave you to imagine and assume so, that yeah, it MIGHT be about THAT THING after all, only in the end you become very annoyed for you realize the Title is misleading. Out of all the books I have read and I am new to this thing since last year only, I was compelled to do a review just so I was that annoyed. But in the end I still liked it overall somehow, the journey, I just didnt like the misleading part, didnt know if it was intentional or leaning on the fact that it did delve on THAT topic too, but it was not the major concern of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2024
We are back at the Verdant Green Waters Sect after much growing up and becoming a Master. Wu Ying has finally returned home. He is also injured after his last big fight. He and his girl show up at the sect and everything is different. They make him wait outside the sect all day long.
This is the beginning of a whole lot of politics inside the volume. The sect is half happy Wu Ying is home and the other half does not want him there. Wu Ying has to show off his abilities before they let him back into the sect. Once there, it's not so smooth sailing. The half that didn't want him there lay traps for him all over the place.
I'm so glad we got this volume. I always think about other stories, Ok, they have become a great master, now lets see how they raise other people. Star Wars had a chance to do that with Luke, but instead, he goes crazy and we don't get to see his jedi academy. So disappointing. Here, we get to see Wu Ying become a teacher and he learns how to help and teach students. It's so interesting to see him from this perspective versus when he was only a student. We see why teachers are the way they are. We see Wu Ying do things like teachers did to him and we also see the politics behind the scenes the students don't know about. There's so much more too it. I love it. Some good stuff.
Wu Ying takes his students out in the wilds for some good times. His students all have to make choices. He does watch and protect.
The reason this is only 3 stars is because the ending was so limp. I don't know what is coming next and it felt like it just stopped in the slice of life stuff. Still, I want to read on. I am ready for the conclusion. This has been such a great series. I can't wait for more. Book 8 is still the best of it all. I love that one.
This is the beginning of a whole lot of politics inside the volume. The sect is half happy Wu Ying is home and the other half does not want him there. Wu Ying has to show off his abilities before they let him back into the sect. Once there, it's not so smooth sailing. The half that didn't want him there lay traps for him all over the place.
I'm so glad we got this volume. I always think about other stories, Ok, they have become a great master, now lets see how they raise other people. Star Wars had a chance to do that with Luke, but instead, he goes crazy and we don't get to see his jedi academy. So disappointing. Here, we get to see Wu Ying become a teacher and he learns how to help and teach students. It's so interesting to see him from this perspective versus when he was only a student. We see why teachers are the way they are. We see Wu Ying do things like teachers did to him and we also see the politics behind the scenes the students don't know about. There's so much more too it. I love it. Some good stuff.
Wu Ying takes his students out in the wilds for some good times. His students all have to make choices. He does watch and protect.
The reason this is only 3 stars is because the ending was so limp. I don't know what is coming next and it felt like it just stopped in the slice of life stuff. Still, I want to read on. I am ready for the conclusion. This has been such a great series. I can't wait for more. Book 8 is still the best of it all. I love that one.
March 8, 2024
Every time I think I have this series figured out, it becomes something else and I love that. The Fourth Stage, the latest in Tao Wong's A Thousand Li series, follows our hero as he returns home after his years long all-Asia cultivation tour to a changed sect. I invariably love the books in this series and find inspiration in them for self-betterment, adhering to my principals, and cooking delicious meats.
The prior book was kinda creepy and dark so it was nice to come back to the comfort of characters we already love (and trust) and silly sect politics. It's strange to root for the protagonist while no longer wanting him to succeed in his ultimate goal for himself. Immortality, schmischmortality! Speaking of which, I love the theoretical discussions of dao and karma in these novels, they remind me of hanging out with my philosophy major friends in college.
And with just two books left in the series, I like that I'm still wondering where it's going next. Immortality? The Infernal Palaces? The return of the Sundering Blade? Giving it all up and opening up an inn/trading post? All of the above?
I'll be sticking around to see.
Buy directly from Starlit.
The prior book was kinda creepy and dark so it was nice to come back to the comfort of characters we already love (and trust) and silly sect politics. It's strange to root for the protagonist while no longer wanting him to succeed in his ultimate goal for himself. Immortality, schmischmortality! Speaking of which, I love the theoretical discussions of dao and karma in these novels, they remind me of hanging out with my philosophy major friends in college.
And with just two books left in the series, I like that I'm still wondering where it's going next. Immortality? The Infernal Palaces? The return of the Sundering Blade? Giving it all up and opening up an inn/trading post? All of the above?
I'll be sticking around to see.
Buy directly from Starlit.
March 9, 2024
Rating 4.0 stars
A much slower book in the series. The MC finally gets back to his sect but he is welcomed back with open arms. There are politics at play. He has gained too much power too fast. There is only so much power to go around in the sect and none of the other elders want to lose any power. This was a little bit stupid in my opinion. The MC didn't really want any power. He was verbally abused multiple times and shown no civility and then is admonished for not showing the proper amount of respect. I do have a little understanding of situation though. The sect is a rigid organization. Everything in it's place and has been around for 1000 years. The MC is a wandering cultivator who has been on his own for more than 10 years. He does things his own way. There really isn't a manual or protocol to follow for what he is able to do. Those two worldviews are going to come into conflict. The way it happened was a little stupid but the story had to be about something. To be honest it probably needed to be told the way it was. Overall, I still really enjoy the series and I am looking forward to the next one.
A much slower book in the series. The MC finally gets back to his sect but he is welcomed back with open arms. There are politics at play. He has gained too much power too fast. There is only so much power to go around in the sect and none of the other elders want to lose any power. This was a little bit stupid in my opinion. The MC didn't really want any power. He was verbally abused multiple times and shown no civility and then is admonished for not showing the proper amount of respect. I do have a little understanding of situation though. The sect is a rigid organization. Everything in it's place and has been around for 1000 years. The MC is a wandering cultivator who has been on his own for more than 10 years. He does things his own way. There really isn't a manual or protocol to follow for what he is able to do. Those two worldviews are going to come into conflict. The way it happened was a little stupid but the story had to be about something. To be honest it probably needed to be told the way it was. Overall, I still really enjoy the series and I am looking forward to the next one.
April 9, 2024
No personal advisement.
I find myself very disappointed in the contents of this book. Yes, we knew from the ending of the last book that a great deal of this book would be filled with the main character recuperating from the damage that was caused in the last book. The entirety of this next book is him trying to recuperate while fending off sect politics. By the end of the book, he’s barely recuperated and then has a relapse. The last few chapters sees years passing by with little or no advancement in his cultivation and just a little recovery. This book gives the feeling of a slice of life novel not so much a book on cultivation. This is more of my personal feelings on this book, others might really like this shift in style. If this is going to be a more permanent shift in style with the main character stalling out in his advancement, then I’m not sure if I would like to continue with this series despite the fact that I really enjoyed it so far.
I find myself very disappointed in the contents of this book. Yes, we knew from the ending of the last book that a great deal of this book would be filled with the main character recuperating from the damage that was caused in the last book. The entirety of this next book is him trying to recuperate while fending off sect politics. By the end of the book, he’s barely recuperated and then has a relapse. The last few chapters sees years passing by with little or no advancement in his cultivation and just a little recovery. This book gives the feeling of a slice of life novel not so much a book on cultivation. This is more of my personal feelings on this book, others might really like this shift in style. If this is going to be a more permanent shift in style with the main character stalling out in his advancement, then I’m not sure if I would like to continue with this series despite the fact that I really enjoyed it so far.
March 12, 2024
This really is the best-written cultivation novel I've read, and I've read a lot of books in this genre.
Tao Wong did an amazing job with a thousand li and I'm sad that the book is about to reach its conclusion.
Now this book focuses on the recuperation of the main character, who had suffered some serious injuries in the battle from the previous book. While he was in the sect looking for ways to heal himself, he became entangled in petty sect politics that was quite comical if you ask me, I mean we had ancient elders bickering over nothing.
What I did enjoy about this book, though, was the way the MC was given responsibilities that had him training apprentices. It was nice to see his growth, considering the book started with him being a lowly outer sect disciple. Although there were no major conflicts in this book, I didn't mind; the book managed to keep me interested until the end.
Tao Wong did an amazing job with a thousand li and I'm sad that the book is about to reach its conclusion.
Now this book focuses on the recuperation of the main character, who had suffered some serious injuries in the battle from the previous book. While he was in the sect looking for ways to heal himself, he became entangled in petty sect politics that was quite comical if you ask me, I mean we had ancient elders bickering over nothing.
What I did enjoy about this book, though, was the way the MC was given responsibilities that had him training apprentices. It was nice to see his growth, considering the book started with him being a lowly outer sect disciple. Although there were no major conflicts in this book, I didn't mind; the book managed to keep me interested until the end.
March 12, 2024
Way too focused on politics
Unfortunately, once again nothing to write home about. It´s like Harry Potter written from Hagrid´s perspective. The whole book is just another mostly dull filler which the author seems to love that much. Nothing really important or interisting happens and there is no real progress AGAIN.
The interactions are lacking depth or humour. There are no interesting encounters or any thrill. The intrigues are rather lame and the reasonings in the trial truly hysterically bad.
It is very sad how the author handles this series which would have that much potential..
Unfortunately, once again nothing to write home about. It´s like Harry Potter written from Hagrid´s perspective. The whole book is just another mostly dull filler which the author seems to love that much. Nothing really important or interisting happens and there is no real progress AGAIN.
The interactions are lacking depth or humour. There are no interesting encounters or any thrill. The intrigues are rather lame and the reasonings in the trial truly hysterically bad.
It is very sad how the author handles this series which would have that much potential..
March 14, 2024
I realized that I have not said enough about how much I have enjoyed this cultivation series A THOUSAND LI. Over ten volumes, Wu Ying, a humble peasant, joins a sect (a group specializing in advancing toward immortality through developing one's core, body, skills, and traits, which includes developing deep insight and character along the way) and rises to the highest levels while facing myriad obstacles and life-threatening circumstances and while developing deep friendships (even a little romance). In other words, the series celebrates learning, growth, and attaining wisdom while having a little fun and joy along the way.
June 24, 2024
NO SPOILERS.
Back home. Finally. The Fourth Stage finds Wu Ying back at the Verdant Green Waters sect. Back home after after his exile. But. We always have a BUT. Things don't go as one would think.
A Thousand Li book 10 find Wu Ying welcomed but not. Healing but not. And everything was dealt with a deft hand that you come to expect from Tao Wong. Even after 10 books, Tao Wong still finds ways to make Wu Ying's journey intriguing.
Can't wait to read the final book.
Back home. Finally. The Fourth Stage finds Wu Ying back at the Verdant Green Waters sect. Back home after after his exile. But. We always have a BUT. Things don't go as one would think.
A Thousand Li book 10 find Wu Ying welcomed but not. Healing but not. And everything was dealt with a deft hand that you come to expect from Tao Wong. Even after 10 books, Tao Wong still finds ways to make Wu Ying's journey intriguing.
Can't wait to read the final book.
March 6, 2024
A worthy addition to this series ... didn't disappoint.
Long have I waited for this sequel.
And boy, was it worth the wait!
Tao Wong's meticulous approach to storytelling once again shines through in "The Fourth Stage," delivering a masterful continuation of the A Thousand Li series.
It's another carefully crafted journey brimming with pearls of wisdom from the true East.
A heartfelt "thank you" to Wong for this enriching experience.
Long have I waited for this sequel.
And boy, was it worth the wait!
Tao Wong's meticulous approach to storytelling once again shines through in "The Fourth Stage," delivering a masterful continuation of the A Thousand Li series.
It's another carefully crafted journey brimming with pearls of wisdom from the true East.
A heartfelt "thank you" to Wong for this enriching experience.
March 9, 2024
An okay read that lacks momentum.
I've enjoyed the seires and think this book was interesting but could be summed up by he comes home and stuff happens and time passes on. The peril seems forced, as did the antagonistic behaviors of some the opposition. It's a good series, but I feel it wonders a bit about the last couple of books as the authors tries to show the passage of time required for the cultivation journey.
I've enjoyed the seires and think this book was interesting but could be summed up by he comes home and stuff happens and time passes on. The peril seems forced, as did the antagonistic behaviors of some the opposition. It's a good series, but I feel it wonders a bit about the last couple of books as the authors tries to show the passage of time required for the cultivation journey.
April 29, 2024
Truly lacking
I've read countless book series and all, but the master authors produce books that are simply a waste of time to read. And this book is one of those. It adds to the story on two fronts. Long returns to the Sect and establishes his place. Everything else is simply meandering filler. In short, it's a true disappointment. Lastly...the epilog is laughable as it speeds through the years in an effort to set up the next book.
I've read countless book series and all, but the master authors produce books that are simply a waste of time to read. And this book is one of those. It adds to the story on two fronts. Long returns to the Sect and establishes his place. Everything else is simply meandering filler. In short, it's a true disappointment. Lastly...the epilog is laughable as it speeds through the years in an effort to set up the next book.
January 21, 2025
All in all unsatisfying. Some still entertaining cultivation and progression elements, but story and character development is lacking.
I was really disappointed by the disengaged teaching , his callous abandonment of the outer sect boy (pulling up the ladder after himself), and overall pretty flat side characters.
I also really dislike the romance, wish there girlfriend character went away for good.
I was really disappointed by the disengaged teaching , his callous abandonment of the outer sect boy (pulling up the ladder after himself), and overall pretty flat side characters.
I also really dislike the romance, wish there girlfriend character went away for good.
July 23, 2025
the Fourth Stage
Wu Ying rejoins the Verdant Green Water sect after years of wandering and gaining strength and enlightenment and is given the position of department head of the new Wandering Gathers department and must teach his new students how to gather in the wilds.
I was not expecting things to play out the way they did in book 10. I was pleasantly surprised by Wu Ying’s new role in the sect after being banished. I’m going straight into book 11 with no break!
Wu Ying rejoins the Verdant Green Water sect after years of wandering and gaining strength and enlightenment and is given the position of department head of the new Wandering Gathers department and must teach his new students how to gather in the wilds.
I was not expecting things to play out the way they did in book 10. I was pleasantly surprised by Wu Ying’s new role in the sect after being banished. I’m going straight into book 11 with no break!
March 5, 2024
This book did not make sense at all.
The way the Elders were behaving in this book - none of them had ever received any enlightenment and none of them are ascending ever. And this includes the Sect Leader too.
If I were the Heavens, I will be sending down the lightning strikes on them repeatedly. .
The way the Elders were behaving in this book - none of them had ever received any enlightenment and none of them are ascending ever. And this includes the Sect Leader too.
If I were the Heavens, I will be sending down the lightning strikes on them repeatedly. .
March 7, 2024
Awesome Series
The best thing about this series is that you get to learn a little Chinese culture. This story of a farmer who gets a chance to learn from the top sect to become a cultivator was fantastic. In this book he goes back to the Sect to teach, but the current elders don’t want him to take from their political powers. Great Read
The best thing about this series is that you get to learn a little Chinese culture. This story of a farmer who gets a chance to learn from the top sect to become a cultivator was fantastic. In this book he goes back to the Sect to teach, but the current elders don’t want him to take from their political powers. Great Read
March 8, 2024
Great book for the last arc
Tao Wong rarely disappoints and this book epitomizes that point. While not necessarily a game changer as far as plot development, the longer enduring character development and subtle (and greater) social developments are intriguing and entertaining. I highly anticipate the next book as this saga comes to a close.
Tao Wong rarely disappoints and this book epitomizes that point. While not necessarily a game changer as far as plot development, the longer enduring character development and subtle (and greater) social developments are intriguing and entertaining. I highly anticipate the next book as this saga comes to a close.
March 11, 2024
Restful
Long Wu Ying is weary, injured, and finally returned home. This volume explores his recovery and his new duties teaching others. It is also reexamination of the Sect and similar groups, their purpose and nature.
I found it interesting and therapeutic. A strong continuation of the immortals' journey.
Long Wu Ying is weary, injured, and finally returned home. This volume explores his recovery and his new duties teaching others. It is also reexamination of the Sect and similar groups, their purpose and nature.
I found it interesting and therapeutic. A strong continuation of the immortals' journey.
April 1, 2024
This last book was much slower and didn't really hit the same as the previous books, its not bad but not as good as the earlier books but I guess it was a nice break for Long to heal. Hopefully this will set him up for some epic encounters soon. I like reading about Wing getting stronger and taking on enemies and making cultivation breakthroughs then kicking ass.
April 5, 2024
transitional but excellent
A wandering cultivator no more, Wu Ying returns to his sect and has to deal with politics, backstabbing, and more. There is a focus on younger members of the sect and this book is where Wu Ying matures. It’s good but different than the ventures of the previous books. Will be interesting how it progresses further.
A wandering cultivator no more, Wu Ying returns to his sect and has to deal with politics, backstabbing, and more. There is a focus on younger members of the sect and this book is where Wu Ying matures. It’s good but different than the ventures of the previous books. Will be interesting how it progresses further.
May 5, 2024
Time flew a lot in this book. It was a nice change from the early books as the protagonist is thrust into a bright new world, and here we see the protagonist rediscover the same world but from a different perspective. Its hard to believe its been decades since the story in book 1, but it gives a nice view into the journey to attaining immortality that we've seen in these books.
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