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Path of the Thunderbird #1
Darkening Skies
A boy abandoned at an ancient school of warrior arts. A princess bartered away as a treaty bride. A lurking evil with the power to topple the world.
Ji Yu Raijin is happy to live out his life serving his school, cultivating his life force, and learning the Path of Darkening Skies, an ancient and noble warrior art—until the day comes when he has to choose: remain true to the teachings of his path and allow his art to die out or commit an unforgivable sin and save the world.
Second princess Shyong San Koida was born the only cripple in a dynasty of powerful warriors. With a broken life force, the only way Koida can contribute to her family’s empire is by sealing a strategic alliance to a barbarian leader with her hand in marriage. But hidden forces within the court conspire to stop the union and obliterate the Shyong San dynasty at all costs.
At the intersection of the servant boy and the princess’s stories lies a secret, malignant art bent on destroying not only them, but the entire world.
Darkening Skies is the first novel in the Path of the Thunderbird series, for fans of wuxia, xanxia, cultivation novels, demon beasts, and all styles of martial arts. Darkening Skies is written by eden Hudson, enthusiastic but terrible martial arts student and best-selling author of Jubal Van Zandt and the litRPG fantasy Rogue Dungeon.
- GenresFantasy
373 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 28, 2019
409 people are currently reading
308 people want to read
About the author
eden Hudson
56 books314 followersI am invincible. I am a mutant. I have 3 hearts and was born with no eyes. I had eyes implanted later. I didn't have hands, either, just stumps. When my eyes were implanted they asked if I would like hands as well and I said, "Yes, I'll take those," and pointed with my stump. But sometimes I'm a hellbender peeking out from under a rock. When it rains, I live in a music box.
But I'm also a tattoo addict, coffee junkie, drummer, and aspiring skateboarder. Jesus actually is my homeboy.
But I'm also a tattoo addict, coffee junkie, drummer, and aspiring skateboarder. Jesus actually is my homeboy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
September 16, 2019
*Contains minor spoilers, but nothing specific.*
This is a hard book to review. The prologue was great. Drew me in, absolutely wonderful start. I couldn't wait to find out more about this maybe-chosen one.
Then we spend chapters upon chapters following some boring princess in some boring palace and everything is so slow and boring that her sneaking out to go riding is the high point of the entire sequence. Granted, her horse is fairly awesome and I love him, but that's beside the point.
It got to the point where I had to flip back to the summary at the beginning to be sure we actually would be finding out more about the interesting dude, because I was growing near to giving up.
Then we finally get to the flashback chapters about Raijin, the interesting one. I thoroughly enjoyed his chapters, following about half of his journey from child to the man we eventually see interacting with boring princess-face in her chapters.
I wanted to skip past her chapters, but didn't because there was the chance something interesting might happen. Something eventually did, but it was too little too late to salvage the book's flagging overall score.
It's one of those books where you can tell it wants to be awesome, and has the potential, but just isn't quite there. The structure of events bored me as often as it excited me. If I hadn't read the Rogue Dungeon series already and thus somewhat trusted the author, I'd have dropped the book long ago. As it is, I got all the way through. And it ended just as things started to get interesting.
Overall, it has some good, not a lot of bad, and quite a bit of average. I've started reading the next book, hoping it improves. But I wish the first book had a stronger structure. The events taking place, if presented properly, could have been absolutely incredible. I can glimpse a great story buried in there under all the tedium, but only the sequel(s?) will show if it's worth excavating.
This is a hard book to review. The prologue was great. Drew me in, absolutely wonderful start. I couldn't wait to find out more about this maybe-chosen one.
Then we spend chapters upon chapters following some boring princess in some boring palace and everything is so slow and boring that her sneaking out to go riding is the high point of the entire sequence. Granted, her horse is fairly awesome and I love him, but that's beside the point.
It got to the point where I had to flip back to the summary at the beginning to be sure we actually would be finding out more about the interesting dude, because I was growing near to giving up.
Then we finally get to the flashback chapters about Raijin, the interesting one. I thoroughly enjoyed his chapters, following about half of his journey from child to the man we eventually see interacting with boring princess-face in her chapters.
I wanted to skip past her chapters, but didn't because there was the chance something interesting might happen. Something eventually did, but it was too little too late to salvage the book's flagging overall score.
It's one of those books where you can tell it wants to be awesome, and has the potential, but just isn't quite there. The structure of events bored me as often as it excited me. If I hadn't read the Rogue Dungeon series already and thus somewhat trusted the author, I'd have dropped the book long ago. As it is, I got all the way through. And it ended just as things started to get interesting.
Overall, it has some good, not a lot of bad, and quite a bit of average. I've started reading the next book, hoping it improves. But I wish the first book had a stronger structure. The events taking place, if presented properly, could have been absolutely incredible. I can glimpse a great story buried in there under all the tedium, but only the sequel(s?) will show if it's worth excavating.
May 26, 2019
What an intoxicating story this is, I was so engrossed in it that I read the whole book in one sitting even though it is not a short book at all!! A story of a baby born to a prostitute, an addict to an opiate drug who knew she could not give him the life he deserved as he was marked as the chosen one. She delivered him to the martial arts school where The Path of Darkening Skies was taught and followed. His name was Li Yu Raijin and he became a great artist in the path he followed, which was a peaceful path and one which strove for justice and protection of those who are weaker. But things changed and he had to leave the school up in the mountains and in time he arrived at the Emperor's court where he was betrothed to Koida the second princess who was considered to be ro-crippled, and given as an alliance bride. A respect which blossomed into love grew between the two of them when Koida realised that for the first time in her life she was seen for more than she was! The world building in this tale is fascinating and exotic, the martial arts poses used by the different paths the warriors used are amazing and the characters and very charismatic. I know that i just have to read further into this amazing Path of the Thunderbird series as this first book has really captured my imagination and my heart as did the half-demon warhorse Pernicious!
May 29, 2019
Ji Yu Raijin has been learning the Path of Darkening Skies, preparing himself for what has yet to come. His life has been a difficult one, yet he's lived it without complaint. Until the moment he meets the beautiful Second Princess, Shyong San Koida. It's then his every thought changes. The girl's life is intertwined with his. It doesn't matter that she's different. Most think she's inferior. To him, she's everything. So much so, he's determined in protecting her, no matter the cost.
Darkening Skies is a departure from Eden's usual tropes. This is a book steeped in Far Eastern lore. A book that piques the reader's interest and keeps it. I kid you not. From the moment I started reading, I found it far too hard to put the book down. So much so, that I had to keep finding the time to dive back into the story just to know what happened next with Koida and Raijin.
I love the supernatural aspects the author has interspersed throughout the story. It fuels the reader's imagination, urging him or her to give flight to the vivid pictures the author paints throughout the book itself. We're given such a complex world that it's hard to peel back every layer in order to discover what's waiting for us at every turn. By the time I got to the very end of the story, I was left wanting more. Can't wait for book two.
Darkening Skies is a departure from Eden's usual tropes. This is a book steeped in Far Eastern lore. A book that piques the reader's interest and keeps it. I kid you not. From the moment I started reading, I found it far too hard to put the book down. So much so, that I had to keep finding the time to dive back into the story just to know what happened next with Koida and Raijin.
I love the supernatural aspects the author has interspersed throughout the story. It fuels the reader's imagination, urging him or her to give flight to the vivid pictures the author paints throughout the book itself. We're given such a complex world that it's hard to peel back every layer in order to discover what's waiting for us at every turn. By the time I got to the very end of the story, I was left wanting more. Can't wait for book two.
March 14, 2022
Imagine being the "Chosen One" in a prophecy where you must die to save the world.
This is a coming-of-age story mixed with a sweet romance. It works on both levels. There's also an interesting political dichotomy... our hero's culture believes in enhancing the self through hard work and study, but his enemies believe in taking the strength of others to enhance themselves.
There are lots of these disparate and opposing forces in the novel. This creates a web of dynamic tensions that make it seem all the more real. Darkening Skies is a polished piece of writing, which makes me sure that I'll dive deeper into Hudson's catalog.
This is a coming-of-age story mixed with a sweet romance. It works on both levels. There's also an interesting political dichotomy... our hero's culture believes in enhancing the self through hard work and study, but his enemies believe in taking the strength of others to enhance themselves.
There are lots of these disparate and opposing forces in the novel. This creates a web of dynamic tensions that make it seem all the more real. Darkening Skies is a polished piece of writing, which makes me sure that I'll dive deeper into Hudson's catalog.
December 6, 2019
started strong, but it just got more and more boring, until zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.............
September 19, 2019
This is the first cultivation novel I have listened to despite many recommendations they just didn't seem to pull me in but the description of this one did. I ended up finishing it a lot faster than I thought I would as I found myself making time for it more than I have lately with other audiobooks. The story started a little slow with just enough interest to keep me in for the first 30 or 40 minutes after that I'm not sure what changed but I was enthralled and couldn't stop listening, when I finally did I couldn't sleep because I wanted to know what happened next. I don't know what effect this story will have on others that read it but it speaks to me in a way that at two separate points I found myself breaking down and crying. The main characters while not really relatable were likeable and I enjoyed my time listening to their story. As he always does Nick Podehl did a fantastic job of bringing the characters to life and telling the story. If you've read other cultivation novels or haven't yet but been curious I highly recommend this one and I eagerly await the next one. I don't know if I will be able to wait for the audiobook to come out to devour it.
February 1, 2022
This is a great book with a few negatives. It's a cultivation novel, with fun characters that feel real and genuine, and it has a lot of nuance to it that I was surprised by. Most notably the twist where the betrothal is the guy we were reading about, Ji Yu Raijin. I also liked Koida and her perspective of a somewhat rebellious princess character but she isn't completely rebellious or unbelievable like many others in this trope.
The narrator also is superb and kept me engaged the entire time. I think he made it all the more engaging. so thank you Nick Podehl.
There are parts of this story that I, personally, do not care for. So I will list these out and explain. But I want to preface this with, I personally did not like it but that does not mean it was done badly. For many others I don't think this will be negative. But this is my review and I can do what I want.
1. Koida's magical disability/deficiency. Koida is the second princess of this war focused empire, where magical strength is the second most import thing to everyone, while royal bloodline is the top priority. Koida was depicted and shown to be magically disabled. She can barely make a stick with her magic/Roh. (I used the audiobook, idk if Roh is spelled correctly, but it's the magic system.)
Even on the description on Amazon Koida is described as thus:
So Eden Hudson is openly drawing a parallel that this is a magical disability. This is different from an author that unknowingly/unintentionally has these themes. Many authors don't think about disabilities in terms of themes, not because they are bad authors, but because it is not a very explored topic. So by Eden Hudson's acknowledgement of Koida's disability theme, I am going to be more critical of her work. She is intentionally drawing focus to this theme.
My problem with Koida's disability allegory is that this book really plays up the internal conflict of someone coping with being labeled as disabled and then they are "fixed." Arguably, Koida's entire character is fixated on the fact that she is disabled. She even uses this as a means to try and end her betrothal to Raijin. So when the book later reveals that Koida's teacher was stealing her Roh/magic, I actually had to find out spoilers before I was willing to finish the book. As a disabled reader, my biggest grievance with fictional disabilities is when the author cures a disabled character. So I thought this was what Eden Hudson was doing and I spoiled the book for myself before I could continue it. I did end up finishing it, but I was still disappointed.
Here's why: Kioda has been studying under this teacher for 5 years, or maybe longer. At no point, did anyone in this completely war focused society, did a single person question the teacher about his methods? Heck, no one ever noticed him stealing her magic/Roh? It's described visually in the novel, and not a single soul saw him stealing?
Further, why was it Raijin and not Koida that confronted the man? This came across to me as a very 'knight in shinning armor' to protect the disabled girl, which isn't flattering. It also makes Koida seem unrealistic to me. As someone with blindness, who has been blind since birth, I would notice if my vision was changed. What precious little residual vision I have, if it were to suddenly worsen every time I was doing a specific thing, I would notice it. What I would have done differently as the author, is I would have made Koida and Raijin train together and her notice that her roh/magic wasn't declining like it does with her teacher. Then have Koida summon the teacher, and have the confrontation. How is that different? By making Koida the one to notice her own magic/roh disability it gives her more agency. Naturally when you have a disability you will be protective and hyper-aware of changes in it. Every degree of vision loss, every escaping sound, every step, you will monitor to make sure it doesn't get worse. Even more so when you believe you can get better. Just like people trying to lose weight will compare the number on the scale day to day.
But, kudos to Eden Hudson for not fixing Koida's roh/magic right then and there. It is still stated that her roh/magic will not get batter, only her application of it. So that was at least something.
That being said, later, when Raijin dies, Koida is given his roh/magic. Which, by this point in the story, is fixing her. She was deficient, and now she has the Roh/magic of one of the strongest people in the story's universe. So I was disappointed here. And I gotta say, reading a book about someone with a disability, a real world disability or a disability allegory, where they get healed/fixed... it's really frustrating.
Why does healing disabled characters make you mad? Don't you want people to be happy? As someone who can never be healed to a typical person's level of vision, it is very frustrating and painful. I will never see the stars in the sky. I just won't. It's a limitation to my disability that I can never overcome. Sure, there are pictures and I can guess, but I can't look up and see those tiny twinkling lights. So to find a character that is disabled and I identify with, and watch their journey as they learn to accept themselves as who they are - be suddenly cured/fixed. It's very hurtful. Now this character that was like me, gets to 'be happy' and I don't. They get the ending and the cure, and I don't. They get to live a normal life without accommodations, and I don't. There's a lot of jealousy and pain there. It also reinforces this idea that people with disabilities NEED to be cured. Society discriminates against people with disabilities. Often we can't find jobs or housing because employers see us as incomplete/needing to be cured to qualify. When fiction reinforces the idea that disabled people are supposed to be cured, it reinforces those thoughts to real world people. Fiction affects reality, intentionally or not.
2. Raijin didn't really die. All book we are told that Raijin will have to make the ultimate sacrifice and give his life to fulfill the prophecy. We watch him grow and suffer and fight and finally he is supposed to complete his purpose, and then he is still alive. Granted, he is in a different plane of existence, and now he is the disabled one, but the ending tells you he can go back to the mortal realm and 'see her again.'
Why I didn't like it. I feel that this cheapens the story. I was surprised and emotional when he died and I was feeling a ton of emotions. Which is exactly why we read isn't it? To have an experience. So when he was suddenly not dead, I felt like I mourned his sacrifice for nothing. It also sets up this expectation that if he dies again it isn't a big deal because he will just come back to life. Even when he gets back, if he suddenly has to die for real and DOESN'T come back, as a reader, I already saw you negate it. So I'll have to be sold an even stronger story to buy any deaths again.
Those are my two biggest criticisms in the story, and I know that they probably won't bother a lot of readers. But I wanted to point them out. This is usually where I pour my thoughts out. I still really like Eden Hudson as an author, and I highly look forward to her works. I haven't decided if I will be continuing this particular series of hers, since I think the core plot and themes will bother me. But I still might. Thank you for the books!
The narrator also is superb and kept me engaged the entire time. I think he made it all the more engaging. so thank you Nick Podehl.
There are parts of this story that I, personally, do not care for. So I will list these out and explain. But I want to preface this with, I personally did not like it but that does not mean it was done badly. For many others I don't think this will be negative. But this is my review and I can do what I want.
1. Koida's magical disability/deficiency. Koida is the second princess of this war focused empire, where magical strength is the second most import thing to everyone, while royal bloodline is the top priority. Koida was depicted and shown to be magically disabled. She can barely make a stick with her magic/Roh. (I used the audiobook, idk if Roh is spelled correctly, but it's the magic system.)
Even on the description on Amazon Koida is described as thus:
"Second princess Shyong San Koida was born the only cripple in a dynasty of powerful warriors. With a broken life force, the only way Koida can contribute to her family’s empire is by sealing a strategic alliance to a barbarian leader with her hand in marriage."
So Eden Hudson is openly drawing a parallel that this is a magical disability. This is different from an author that unknowingly/unintentionally has these themes. Many authors don't think about disabilities in terms of themes, not because they are bad authors, but because it is not a very explored topic. So by Eden Hudson's acknowledgement of Koida's disability theme, I am going to be more critical of her work. She is intentionally drawing focus to this theme.
My problem with Koida's disability allegory is that this book really plays up the internal conflict of someone coping with being labeled as disabled and then they are "fixed." Arguably, Koida's entire character is fixated on the fact that she is disabled. She even uses this as a means to try and end her betrothal to Raijin. So when the book later reveals that Koida's teacher was stealing her Roh/magic, I actually had to find out spoilers before I was willing to finish the book. As a disabled reader, my biggest grievance with fictional disabilities is when the author cures a disabled character. So I thought this was what Eden Hudson was doing and I spoiled the book for myself before I could continue it. I did end up finishing it, but I was still disappointed.
Here's why: Kioda has been studying under this teacher for 5 years, or maybe longer. At no point, did anyone in this completely war focused society, did a single person question the teacher about his methods? Heck, no one ever noticed him stealing her magic/Roh? It's described visually in the novel, and not a single soul saw him stealing?
Further, why was it Raijin and not Koida that confronted the man? This came across to me as a very 'knight in shinning armor' to protect the disabled girl, which isn't flattering. It also makes Koida seem unrealistic to me. As someone with blindness, who has been blind since birth, I would notice if my vision was changed. What precious little residual vision I have, if it were to suddenly worsen every time I was doing a specific thing, I would notice it. What I would have done differently as the author, is I would have made Koida and Raijin train together and her notice that her roh/magic wasn't declining like it does with her teacher. Then have Koida summon the teacher, and have the confrontation. How is that different? By making Koida the one to notice her own magic/roh disability it gives her more agency. Naturally when you have a disability you will be protective and hyper-aware of changes in it. Every degree of vision loss, every escaping sound, every step, you will monitor to make sure it doesn't get worse. Even more so when you believe you can get better. Just like people trying to lose weight will compare the number on the scale day to day.
But, kudos to Eden Hudson for not fixing Koida's roh/magic right then and there. It is still stated that her roh/magic will not get batter, only her application of it. So that was at least something.
That being said, later, when Raijin dies, Koida is given his roh/magic. Which, by this point in the story, is fixing her. She was deficient, and now she has the Roh/magic of one of the strongest people in the story's universe. So I was disappointed here. And I gotta say, reading a book about someone with a disability, a real world disability or a disability allegory, where they get healed/fixed... it's really frustrating.
Why does healing disabled characters make you mad? Don't you want people to be happy? As someone who can never be healed to a typical person's level of vision, it is very frustrating and painful. I will never see the stars in the sky. I just won't. It's a limitation to my disability that I can never overcome. Sure, there are pictures and I can guess, but I can't look up and see those tiny twinkling lights. So to find a character that is disabled and I identify with, and watch their journey as they learn to accept themselves as who they are - be suddenly cured/fixed. It's very hurtful. Now this character that was like me, gets to 'be happy' and I don't. They get the ending and the cure, and I don't. They get to live a normal life without accommodations, and I don't. There's a lot of jealousy and pain there. It also reinforces this idea that people with disabilities NEED to be cured. Society discriminates against people with disabilities. Often we can't find jobs or housing because employers see us as incomplete/needing to be cured to qualify. When fiction reinforces the idea that disabled people are supposed to be cured, it reinforces those thoughts to real world people. Fiction affects reality, intentionally or not.
2. Raijin didn't really die. All book we are told that Raijin will have to make the ultimate sacrifice and give his life to fulfill the prophecy. We watch him grow and suffer and fight and finally he is supposed to complete his purpose, and then he is still alive. Granted, he is in a different plane of existence, and now he is the disabled one, but the ending tells you he can go back to the mortal realm and 'see her again.'
Why I didn't like it. I feel that this cheapens the story. I was surprised and emotional when he died and I was feeling a ton of emotions. Which is exactly why we read isn't it? To have an experience. So when he was suddenly not dead, I felt like I mourned his sacrifice for nothing. It also sets up this expectation that if he dies again it isn't a big deal because he will just come back to life. Even when he gets back, if he suddenly has to die for real and DOESN'T come back, as a reader, I already saw you negate it. So I'll have to be sold an even stronger story to buy any deaths again.
Those are my two biggest criticisms in the story, and I know that they probably won't bother a lot of readers. But I wanted to point them out. This is usually where I pour my thoughts out. I still really like Eden Hudson as an author, and I highly look forward to her works. I haven't decided if I will be continuing this particular series of hers, since I think the core plot and themes will bother me. But I still might. Thank you for the books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2020
So damn good
Firstly, this book is amazing. Now, those looking for a pure progression fantasy might find this frustrating since it splits POV and timeskips as well, bit of you can take the book for what it is, an epic fantasy art in Asia with cultivation elements in it, it's very, very good. Well worth reading
Firstly, this book is amazing. Now, those looking for a pure progression fantasy might find this frustrating since it splits POV and timeskips as well, bit of you can take the book for what it is, an epic fantasy art in Asia with cultivation elements in it, it's very, very good. Well worth reading
December 6, 2019
Darkening Skies by eden Hudson is the first in the Path of the Thunderbird series, and it’s a wonderful start to a series that promises to become a go-to for fans of the cultivation subgenre. Set in an Asian-inspired secondary world, Darkening Skies tells the story of a young boy growing up at a monastery, while simultaneously telling the story of a princess about to embark on her own journey.
The first element of this novel that deserves praise is the intertwining timelines. The story is told through two viewpoints, one “present time” and one taking place a decade or so in the past. I often find myself disliking this sort of literary device, but Hudson uses it to great effect in Darkening Skies. The reveals from one timeline often have an emotional impact on the other, and vice-versa. Hudson also manages to keep the pacing consistent within and between the two timelines, which makes this a fast read. The novel also manages to use the prophesied savior trope in a unique and interesting way that feels fresh rather than stale. That in and of itself deserves praise. But coupled with the way the two main characters are drawn, it helps to make this novel stand out from the pack. I loved both the main characters, and the slow burn romance that buds between them is very well done. Of course, the magic is also interesting. Typical of the cultivation genre, we don’t get much detail in this first book, but a strong foundation is laid. Hudson crafts fight sequences that are engaging and manage to remain fresh throughout the story. The combination of physical fighting and magical fighting is a staple of cultivation tales, and Hudson does an excellent job with the combination here. Overall, there is something extremely compelling about this book. Whether it’s the world building, the characters, the intertwining timelines, seeing young Raijin in the past timeline versus adult Raijin in the present timeline, seeing Koida work to overcome her weaknesses, or the sum of these being greater than the parts, I found myself unwilling to put the book down, telling myself I could read just one more page, one more chapter, before bed.
I did find that the characters took a little while to grow on me. For the first third or so of the book both Koida, the princess, and Raijin, the boy growing up at the monastery, felt a little vanilla. But they did grow on me quickly after that initial period. In some ways, this applies to the novel as a whole: it takes a while to get going. I also found myself with many questions left at the end of the novel. This is forgivable because it’s the opening book in a series, but even with that in mind it ended on quite the cliffhanger. There is also a little bit of a learning curve in understanding the cultures and some of the terms used in the story. I don’t mind this at all, but some readers could find this off putting.
Darkening Skies is a great read. Once the story kicks into high gear, it doesn’t let up and keeps you engaged. It’s a compelling read with two well drawn characters, cool world building, a fun cultivation style magic system and a slow burn romance. It will appeal to fans of Will Wight’s Cradle series. I’m eagerly looking forward to reading the sequel.
7.5/10
3.75/5 stars.
5 – I loved this, couldn’t put it down, move it to the top of your TBR pile
4 – I really enjoyed this, add it to the TBR pile
3 – It was ok, depending on your preferences it may be worth your time
2 – I didn’t like this book, it has significant flaws and I can’t recommend it
1 – I loathe this book with a most loathsome loathing
The first element of this novel that deserves praise is the intertwining timelines. The story is told through two viewpoints, one “present time” and one taking place a decade or so in the past. I often find myself disliking this sort of literary device, but Hudson uses it to great effect in Darkening Skies. The reveals from one timeline often have an emotional impact on the other, and vice-versa. Hudson also manages to keep the pacing consistent within and between the two timelines, which makes this a fast read. The novel also manages to use the prophesied savior trope in a unique and interesting way that feels fresh rather than stale. That in and of itself deserves praise. But coupled with the way the two main characters are drawn, it helps to make this novel stand out from the pack. I loved both the main characters, and the slow burn romance that buds between them is very well done. Of course, the magic is also interesting. Typical of the cultivation genre, we don’t get much detail in this first book, but a strong foundation is laid. Hudson crafts fight sequences that are engaging and manage to remain fresh throughout the story. The combination of physical fighting and magical fighting is a staple of cultivation tales, and Hudson does an excellent job with the combination here. Overall, there is something extremely compelling about this book. Whether it’s the world building, the characters, the intertwining timelines, seeing young Raijin in the past timeline versus adult Raijin in the present timeline, seeing Koida work to overcome her weaknesses, or the sum of these being greater than the parts, I found myself unwilling to put the book down, telling myself I could read just one more page, one more chapter, before bed.
I did find that the characters took a little while to grow on me. For the first third or so of the book both Koida, the princess, and Raijin, the boy growing up at the monastery, felt a little vanilla. But they did grow on me quickly after that initial period. In some ways, this applies to the novel as a whole: it takes a while to get going. I also found myself with many questions left at the end of the novel. This is forgivable because it’s the opening book in a series, but even with that in mind it ended on quite the cliffhanger. There is also a little bit of a learning curve in understanding the cultures and some of the terms used in the story. I don’t mind this at all, but some readers could find this off putting.
Darkening Skies is a great read. Once the story kicks into high gear, it doesn’t let up and keeps you engaged. It’s a compelling read with two well drawn characters, cool world building, a fun cultivation style magic system and a slow burn romance. It will appeal to fans of Will Wight’s Cradle series. I’m eagerly looking forward to reading the sequel.
7.5/10
3.75/5 stars.
5 – I loved this, couldn’t put it down, move it to the top of your TBR pile
4 – I really enjoyed this, add it to the TBR pile
3 – It was ok, depending on your preferences it may be worth your time
2 – I didn’t like this book, it has significant flaws and I can’t recommend it
1 – I loathe this book with a most loathsome loathing
June 4, 2019
A brilliant start to a amazing series
If you want adventure you have defiently come to the right place. eden has done a stellar job bringing you the amazing tale of Ji Yu Raijin. This young man faces some very stiff adversity from the beginning of his life. I wont go into more details here because you need to read the story it is that amazing.
I also loved how well she developed the other characters in this story, Shyong San Koida, the second princess also plays a pivotal role in his existence and you will need to read the story to find out just how much they mean to each other.
I loved the concept of blending the martial arts training with the cultivation methods such a brilliant blend of a wuxia, xanxia style of books.
If you want a fun and amazing book to read then this is definitely one of them, I love eden's stories and this one is most certainly set to bring you some heart throbs, tears, and moments where you shout at the book cause you excited or mad. With out a doubt you will be reading this book until you are finished there is no putting it down.
I without a doubt will recommend this story to everyone to read, it was an amazing, fast paced thriller that never let me down.
I await the second story in this series with rapt attention eden so dont keep it to long.
If you want adventure you have defiently come to the right place. eden has done a stellar job bringing you the amazing tale of Ji Yu Raijin. This young man faces some very stiff adversity from the beginning of his life. I wont go into more details here because you need to read the story it is that amazing.
I also loved how well she developed the other characters in this story, Shyong San Koida, the second princess also plays a pivotal role in his existence and you will need to read the story to find out just how much they mean to each other.
I loved the concept of blending the martial arts training with the cultivation methods such a brilliant blend of a wuxia, xanxia style of books.
If you want a fun and amazing book to read then this is definitely one of them, I love eden's stories and this one is most certainly set to bring you some heart throbs, tears, and moments where you shout at the book cause you excited or mad. With out a doubt you will be reading this book until you are finished there is no putting it down.
I without a doubt will recommend this story to everyone to read, it was an amazing, fast paced thriller that never let me down.
I await the second story in this series with rapt attention eden so dont keep it to long.
November 20, 2019
I don't want to be racist or stereotypical but I usually avoid all books based off a culture that is foreign to the author (e.g. Harmon Cooper tried to write a book with a lot of Japanese culture or this book writing it off the Chinese culture and the wuxia). It's sad, but it's literally like how Americans think the best and only food in a Chinese restaurant is fried rice (exaggeration intended). Yes, despite that there are a lot of food channels on YouTube, those people still exists.
They got a lot of misconceptions and when someone who knows about the culture reads these books, it's like a blasphemy. You don't even need to be a pro. You'll easily be exposed to these via anime/manga/manhua/light novels/web novels/etc.
I got no clue what Eden Hudson was referring to when he used "Li Yu", but Raijin is a very common term for anime/manga/fantasy fans. Or, you can just google and it'll tell you instantly. Raijin means "Thunder God" but from the Japanese, not Chinese. Eden Hudson did an amazing job insulting two cultures within 15 minutes of the audiobook.
So, how do you become a "best seller"? Create a background that is as authentic as possible from your source material, then ruin it by introducing elements that people would like.
They got a lot of misconceptions and when someone who knows about the culture reads these books, it's like a blasphemy. You don't even need to be a pro. You'll easily be exposed to these via anime/manga/manhua/light novels/web novels/etc.
I got no clue what Eden Hudson was referring to when he used "Li Yu", but Raijin is a very common term for anime/manga/fantasy fans. Or, you can just google and it'll tell you instantly. Raijin means "Thunder God" but from the Japanese, not Chinese. Eden Hudson did an amazing job insulting two cultures within 15 minutes of the audiobook.
So, how do you become a "best seller"? Create a background that is as authentic as possible from your source material, then ruin it by introducing elements that people would like.
August 1, 2019
eden Hudson, I don’t know if I’ve cried so hard at words
I’m familiar with wuxia movies but haven’t ventured too far into literature. This was a shock. Simultaneously beautiful, captivating, and filled with hope as I wished so hard the protagonists would break free of the bonds of their fate, while also ripping out my guts, splaying them on the ground, and mocking me for crying about it.
This book is art in all forms. The pictures came to life in my mind as the warrior artists danced across the courtyard in combat, as Koida rode her deadly demon warhorse through the fields, as the young Ji Yu Raijin trained...
The cultivation elements are strong, and developed with what seems like a mind that has practiced these elements themself. This book inspires me to meditate, to train my body to exhaustion, to be the best version of myself I can be, through adversity, through pain, and resist my primal urges, holding myself above them as a creature of calm logic.
This is a perfect wuxia book. Perfect.
I’m frothing at the mouth as I await the next installment.
I’m familiar with wuxia movies but haven’t ventured too far into literature. This was a shock. Simultaneously beautiful, captivating, and filled with hope as I wished so hard the protagonists would break free of the bonds of their fate, while also ripping out my guts, splaying them on the ground, and mocking me for crying about it.
This book is art in all forms. The pictures came to life in my mind as the warrior artists danced across the courtyard in combat, as Koida rode her deadly demon warhorse through the fields, as the young Ji Yu Raijin trained...
The cultivation elements are strong, and developed with what seems like a mind that has practiced these elements themself. This book inspires me to meditate, to train my body to exhaustion, to be the best version of myself I can be, through adversity, through pain, and resist my primal urges, holding myself above them as a creature of calm logic.
This is a perfect wuxia book. Perfect.
I’m frothing at the mouth as I await the next installment.
April 26, 2022
I liked this series.
this series isn't one of my favorites, especially with the joint Mcs. But it is a good cultivation series, us audible fans know it's hard to find a good cultivation series.
Cons: I didn't like the joint mcs, I especially didn't like how there were more chapters of the girl then the guy. They should've been even. I would've liked this book to be longer and to have more world building. But other than that I don't have any complaints. This series isn't one of eden Hudsons best but it's good.
Pros: I liked the fighting and the abilities of this series. The characters are likable. I didn't like the girl mc for varying reasons. but the middle/end of this book were crazy and had me really listening. if you like cultivation books like blue Phoenix or Condemning the heavens this is for you
this series isn't one of my favorites, especially with the joint Mcs. But it is a good cultivation series, us audible fans know it's hard to find a good cultivation series.
Cons: I didn't like the joint mcs, I especially didn't like how there were more chapters of the girl then the guy. They should've been even. I would've liked this book to be longer and to have more world building. But other than that I don't have any complaints. This series isn't one of eden Hudsons best but it's good.
Pros: I liked the fighting and the abilities of this series. The characters are likable. I didn't like the girl mc for varying reasons. but the middle/end of this book were crazy and had me really listening. if you like cultivation books like blue Phoenix or Condemning the heavens this is for you
August 12, 2019
How a modern wuxia novel should be
Most of the wuxia/xianxia novels here were laden with people spending inordinate amount of time getting over hardships and cultivating their life force, so much that it diluted the plot and intrigue. This novel didn’t fall to the same hole. Instead, it’s well-written, with a solid plot and a strong promise of character development. If you’re familiar with the works of Salvatore, or any of the Hickman-Weiss duet in the Dragonlance stories, you’ll find this novel a close resemblance to those Forgotten Realms stories in narrative forms and devices, with quite a lot of eastern Asian influence. A really satisfying read, and I hope the writer would come up with even better of a story in the coming books.
Most of the wuxia/xianxia novels here were laden with people spending inordinate amount of time getting over hardships and cultivating their life force, so much that it diluted the plot and intrigue. This novel didn’t fall to the same hole. Instead, it’s well-written, with a solid plot and a strong promise of character development. If you’re familiar with the works of Salvatore, or any of the Hickman-Weiss duet in the Dragonlance stories, you’ll find this novel a close resemblance to those Forgotten Realms stories in narrative forms and devices, with quite a lot of eastern Asian influence. A really satisfying read, and I hope the writer would come up with even better of a story in the coming books.
January 2, 2020
I do like my Martial arts stories so i usually read them but im gradually checking them out on Audio. I wasn't sure if the accent would work or the pronunciation would be how i imagined it. With a nareator like Podehl i was in safe hands and it would be good , i was wrong it was very very good and i was trying to be critical. Raijin and Lysander especially were very good and exactly how i imagined them to be, Koida was done almost the same as how i thought as well so the listening experience was a pleasure and i flew through the story. Audio with a good story should come to life and so it was with this audio. Sometimes it works brilliantly and so i have no hesitations in giving a solid 5 stars all round especially as i own this story already and i loved it already.
November 26, 2020
Book: 3.5 stars Series: 3 stars
One of the few wuxia/kung-fu series worth reading, mostly because it spends a lot more time of character and motivations and a lot less time on fights and mystical meditation. The different tribes in this fantasy world follow different martial philosophies which are reflected in significantly different cultures - not just "air" vs "fire" malarkey but actual different value systems that are seen in different social orders. The main character follows a "path of peace" at the start which leads him to avoid combat when possible which is fresh (but that falls away as the series progresses).
Unfortunately the following books spend a lot of time of flash backs and consequently the pacing slows to a crawl.
One of the few wuxia/kung-fu series worth reading, mostly because it spends a lot more time of character and motivations and a lot less time on fights and mystical meditation. The different tribes in this fantasy world follow different martial philosophies which are reflected in significantly different cultures - not just "air" vs "fire" malarkey but actual different value systems that are seen in different social orders. The main character follows a "path of peace" at the start which leads him to avoid combat when possible which is fresh (but that falls away as the series progresses).
Unfortunately the following books spend a lot of time of flash backs and consequently the pacing slows to a crawl.
December 8, 2019
Five stars, no hesitation
I can't adequately explain how surprisingly good this book was. The quality of of the writing and the depth of story ctaft here are beyond outstanding. This is easily the single best written pure cultivation novel I've read to date. From the moment I finished the first chapter I was hooked, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I'm a nitpicky reader ,and if there were gramatical mistakes or awkward language in this book I didn't find them. If you like cultivation stories then this may be the series for you. Too many favorite features to list. Just read it.
I can't adequately explain how surprisingly good this book was. The quality of of the writing and the depth of story ctaft here are beyond outstanding. This is easily the single best written pure cultivation novel I've read to date. From the moment I finished the first chapter I was hooked, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I'm a nitpicky reader ,and if there were gramatical mistakes or awkward language in this book I didn't find them. If you like cultivation stories then this may be the series for you. Too many favorite features to list. Just read it.
January 10, 2020
Do read
The story is fun, crazy, fast paced, and nobody is sure what is happening but that is just part of the fun.
I finished the book and I still have zero idea what is going on, and I still think this is an awesome story to read.
The characters are interesting, the points of view change from past to present moving the story forward by providing the details of “how did we get here” by re-living the experiences of the hero.
And although the book is full of details, the autor actually never tells you what is going on, just keeps pushing plot forward one piece at a time without revealing the whole picture. And they did it wonderfully (they meaning the author).
The story is fun, crazy, fast paced, and nobody is sure what is happening but that is just part of the fun.
I finished the book and I still have zero idea what is going on, and I still think this is an awesome story to read.
The characters are interesting, the points of view change from past to present moving the story forward by providing the details of “how did we get here” by re-living the experiences of the hero.
And although the book is full of details, the autor actually never tells you what is going on, just keeps pushing plot forward one piece at a time without revealing the whole picture. And they did it wonderfully (they meaning the author).
June 1, 2019
Fun oriental fantasy romp
Gotta love the classic kung fu and far east magic combination that Hudson offers in this novel. She has created something that is familiar to those who love fantasy, yet due to the unique setting it's intriguing and new.
I especially love the sudden change at the end which flipped the standard hero story on its head.
Really looking forward to book 2 in what I'm sure will be at least a trilogy.
Disclaimer: I received this book as part of a giveaway, but given the strength of this beginning I'll be looking forward to buying in the future.
Gotta love the classic kung fu and far east magic combination that Hudson offers in this novel. She has created something that is familiar to those who love fantasy, yet due to the unique setting it's intriguing and new.
I especially love the sudden change at the end which flipped the standard hero story on its head.
Really looking forward to book 2 in what I'm sure will be at least a trilogy.
Disclaimer: I received this book as part of a giveaway, but given the strength of this beginning I'll be looking forward to buying in the future.
June 26, 2019
Great story
This is my second Wuxia book and I enjoyed the story, the characters, and the action. The world built by the author is filled with magic and martial arts religions and rich characters that practice them. The parts that stuck with me the most were the chapters with Raijin and his mom. It really reminded me of my dad and his battles with addiction and it evoked a lot of emotions. I’m really glad for the epilogue because without it I don’t know I would want to continue the series.
This is my second Wuxia book and I enjoyed the story, the characters, and the action. The world built by the author is filled with magic and martial arts religions and rich characters that practice them. The parts that stuck with me the most were the chapters with Raijin and his mom. It really reminded me of my dad and his battles with addiction and it evoked a lot of emotions. I’m really glad for the epilogue because without it I don’t know I would want to continue the series.
June 1, 2019
I actually really enjoyed this book. As usual with eden's books, it's internally consistent - there're jarring aspects that show up here and there, but Hudson's an astute enough writer that I think it's been done deliberately, and I can't wait to find out why and how things work more fully. The characters show development, the plot has aspects that surprise and amuse, and it's a thoroughly enjoyable read, as are all of eden Hudson's books that I've read.
June 2, 2019
Absolutely Great Read
I liked the story, characters, eastern vibe, action, martial arts, and romance. This is a very well written book. Raijen and Koida have a destiny together. Although it is not clear as the visions do not completely match reality. Will Princess Koida overcome her crippled magic? Will Martial Artist Raijen protect those he loves as well as save the world? I anxiously await the next book.
I liked the story, characters, eastern vibe, action, martial arts, and romance. This is a very well written book. Raijen and Koida have a destiny together. Although it is not clear as the visions do not completely match reality. Will Princess Koida overcome her crippled magic? Will Martial Artist Raijen protect those he loves as well as save the world? I anxiously await the next book.
December 31, 2019
With multiple points of view and world-impacting stakes, some Cultivation readers consider eden Hudson’s work to be epic fantasy with Xianxia characteristics. Maybe that’s why it was my favorite so far! Like Cradle’s Lindon, Koida was born with a handicap that affects her martial skills. She’s also something of a Disney Princess with a recalcitrant animal sidekick. When she is betrothed to a barbarian tribal leader, Raijin, all kinds of action and cultivation ensue.
June 13, 2019
Really, really good
On certain levels, formulaic, but the writing, scene building, and character development is top notch. I would recommend this book even to someone who is not necessarily interested in martial arts fantasy. The author made me feel emotion, and care what happens. Get the free sample if you are on the fence, I did and then devoured the book in 24 hours
On certain levels, formulaic, but the writing, scene building, and character development is top notch. I would recommend this book even to someone who is not necessarily interested in martial arts fantasy. The author made me feel emotion, and care what happens. Get the free sample if you are on the fence, I did and then devoured the book in 24 hours
June 16, 2019
A Surprising Find
This story is well written with well composed dialogue and few misspellings. I greatly enjoy the allusions to Asian culture and the elements from xuanhuan books that he incorporates. I can’t wait to continue to explore this world and find out how the story progresses: both past and present!
This story is well written with well composed dialogue and few misspellings. I greatly enjoy the allusions to Asian culture and the elements from xuanhuan books that he incorporates. I can’t wait to continue to explore this world and find out how the story progresses: both past and present!
September 5, 2019
Excellent Fantasy AND Cultivation novel
Loved this book. While it uses some elements of cultivation novels, it doesnt sacrifice any quality in story, character, and language like so many of those novels do. If you like fantasy books and want to give this genre a try, this is now going to be my standing recommendation to get into it, next to Cradle by Will Wight.
Loved this book. While it uses some elements of cultivation novels, it doesnt sacrifice any quality in story, character, and language like so many of those novels do. If you like fantasy books and want to give this genre a try, this is now going to be my standing recommendation to get into it, next to Cradle by Will Wight.
September 23, 2019
At first the books kinda confusing in the style the author chose to write it but as it gets closer to the middle of the book it starts to make a lot more sense and it's a very ingenious way to write. Everything from the character progression and plotline progression was masterfully done will definitely be reading the next book.
April 13, 2023
Nice cultivation story.
I am not a big friend of two timelines converging to each other but in this case it is not too annoying for me.
We follow the MC on the one side and his later bride on the other.
Some intersting worldbuilding aspects. Will be interesting to see how this story continues.
I am not a big friend of two timelines converging to each other but in this case it is not too annoying for me.
We follow the MC on the one side and his later bride on the other.
Some intersting worldbuilding aspects. Will be interesting to see how this story continues.
May 29, 2019
Excellent start
Followed by a few choice curse words that there isn't more available yet. Ok, I was really into it by the end. The rest if it was good. Sucked me in and didn't let go until all the bodies hit the floor. Read the blurb if you want to know what it was about.
Followed by a few choice curse words that there isn't more available yet. Ok, I was really into it by the end. The rest if it was good. Sucked me in and didn't let go until all the bodies hit the floor. Read the blurb if you want to know what it was about.
June 1, 2019
Liked it
The story was well written. I thought it started a little slow, then I really enjoyed the rest of the book until a fairly sudden, very cliche ending. Liked it enough to read the next book when it comes out.
The story was well written. I thought it started a little slow, then I really enjoyed the rest of the book until a fairly sudden, very cliche ending. Liked it enough to read the next book when it comes out.
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