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A Thousand Li #6

The Second Storm

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When War Wages, Even Innocents Perish
Two years have passed and the war between the kingdoms of Shen and Wei rages on. The dark sect moves in the shadows, striking against the noble Verdant Green Waters Sect, damaging, killing and kidnapping their members.
Among the victims - Fairy Yang, Wu Ying's martial sister. On a desperate quest to retrieve her, Wu Ying finds himself caught up in inter-sect politics and headed straight for a trap.
Tragedy awaits, but some paths, a man must walk. No matter the cost.
The Second Storm is the sixth novel in the A Thousand Li series, a book on immortal cultivation, wondrous martial arts, evil cultivation sects and spirit beasts. This series will be loved by those searching for wuxia, xianxia and progression fantasy works and those looking for a more westernised cultivation story. The Second Storm is written by Tao Wong, the bestselling sci-fi and fantasy LitRPG author of the System Apocalypse , Adventures on Brad, and the Hidden Wishes series.

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Published November 29, 2021

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About the author

Tao Wong

137 books957 followers
Tao 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.

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5 stars
1,289 (55%)
4 stars
744 (32%)
3 stars
237 (10%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
Profile Image for Calista.
5,432 reviews31.3k followers
February 13, 2023
So far in this series, book 5 is my favorite. I loved the way this book 6 in the 'a Thousand Li' started. Wu Ying is in his element. He is a gatherer, collection herbs and plants for different sects and selling them. The first part was a joy to read.

Next, Verdant Green Waters Sect is attacked. I have to be honest, I really didn't like all that. Wu Ying wasn't there, he comes later to see all the destruction and who is missing. His marital sister was kidnapped. I really didn't like that part of the story. Now, Wu Ying is going to go try and rescue his martial sister from the Dark Sect. They are so powerful, they can burst into the Green waters sect with Core Cultivators and he thinks he can simply walk in there and rescue her after that. It's a suicide mission. He knows that.

Another issue is that two years have gone by since the fifth book and Wu Ying opens his last Storage vessels in that time off page. We don't get to see him progress. It seems to me that he should have gone to Core Stage to be able to rescue his sister. Anyway.

So, I loved the first part of the story, the middle was a mess with the sect being destroyed. Then the last 100 pages is pretty much nothing but a battle scene and rescue. I am not big on reading prolonged fights. I don't mind fight scenes if they are quick, but I do not like having to drag on with a fight page after page. It's exhausting and not entertaining for me. The fight at the end just goes on and on and on. I'm not a fan. It left me with a unsatisfied feeling at the end of the book. Some characters don't make it.

I am interested to see where the next book goes. Wu Ying is back in the wild and I love reading about that slice of daily life. I hope the next book is better. Tao Wong does tell us at the end of the book that the next book is about Wu Ying breaking into Core Cultivation, so that should be exciting. I wonder if Wu Ying will make Nascent Cultivation? This is still better than books 3 and 4 by far. I would say this would rank as my second favorite book in the series.

Best V5, V6, V2, V1, V4, V3 is the order of best to worst.
Profile Image for Andrews WizardlyReads.
342 reviews723 followers
March 4, 2024
Another solid entry in the series! The closing of Arc 2 has me excited for what comes next for Wu Ying
Profile Image for Tao Wong.
Author 137 books957 followers
Read
December 3, 2021
The Second Storm is finally here!

Want a peek at the first page?


They came for him on the road to Feng Jian.

Four figures clad in black, their bodies blending into the shadows cast by the foliage on that single track, earthen path he traversed. Wu Ying was moving swiftly, his cloth-shoed feet barely touching the ground as he swept forward, intent on reaching the city before the night arrived in all its glory.

His clothing, those dark and light green robes of the Verdant Green Waters Sect, were mildly stained and dirty, the unearthly silk unable to deal with the numerous days and nights Wu Ying had spent in the backcountry. Even its enhanced durability had given way under the wear and tear of days traipsing through spider-infested, monster-laden untamed wilderness. The robes were still soft, cooler and gentler than anything he had ever worn before his introduction to the Sect, but Wu Ying could almost feel the dirt that rubbed against his tanned and grimy skin.

Not that he had time to worry about that right now. As four assailants stepped out of the shadows, Wu Ying shifted the flow of chi in his feet with but a thought, allowing himself to regain the weight he had held off the earth with his qinggong technique. A hand dropped to the worn hilt of his belted jian, though he chose not to draw the weapon.

Not yet.
Profile Image for A.R.
430 reviews38 followers
September 25, 2024
Re-read: Still plenty of fun and interesting. Overall a solid read


This book was plenty fun. Tons of combat, the ending of a story arc, some progression. Overall solid. My only issue is that this book has too many characters and too little time spent with them. Many are recurring, but I have trouble telling them apart. Overall, the middle of this book lagged a bit, months passing with little happening. We get told that some of the team members grew close, but it is not well shown. Overall, a smaller party with more time spent with each character would have helped. Really, this series needs that. A dedicated party, we only really have one side character that has shown up in each book. Our MC apparently loves his master and martial sister, but they have spent so little time together on the page it gets hard to believe at times.
Profile Image for Soo.
2,928 reviews346 followers
December 27, 2021
Notes:

Much tighter story line and plot arc than the last book. I enjoyed it more.
9 reviews
December 4, 2021
3.5

I definitely enjoyed this book but I had to downgrade it because it felt sort of truncated. A lot happened but not a lot happened.

I loved the evolution of Wu Ying's cultivation. I like his wind body and how you can see it subtly and sometimes not so subtly influencing his techniques. He's become a great fighter and cultivator and it's satisfying to see. The only downside is he is slow to advance.

Now for the story. The stakes were high with the kidnapping but at the same time it didn't feel like anyone but the MC actually cared enough. Wu Ying and friends head out on a rescue mission and pick up many new and old friends along the way. I'm not sure that was a great idea. Most were forgettable. Xiang Wen came back which I was initially excited for but honestly was a waste. Maybe Mr. Wong is trying to grow her character but I see little point with the way the story went. The ending was abrupt. The resulting battle was a fun read but then the story just ends. It almost felt like the author just wanted to get the dark sect arc done with so we could start the more interesting story in the next arc.

So should you read this? If you like cultivation and seeing Wu Ying figure out how to improve himself and search for a dao then yes. Do you like a big battle? Then read this book. Do you like great character interactions? Then you'll be left wanting.
Profile Image for Dave Stone.
1,347 reviews96 followers
January 24, 2025
Really good
This one has more action - adventure than most. It still has a lot of dark & glum, but there's more on the other side of the scale to offset that.
One possible down side is that after 6 books I still can't identify characters by Chinese name alone.
Profile Image for Steve Naylor.
2,484 reviews127 followers
December 20, 2021
Rating 4.5 stars

This. This is the story where everything comes together. It has been about 2 years since the events of the last book and the MC has finally come into his own. He has grown in power. He has figured out his place in the world, not completely but he is forging his own path and dao. He is told that his martial sister has been kidnapped by the dark sect and is told that it is a trap and they don't plan to rescue her. He doesn't agree and gets a group together to go save them. He gets help from the sect in secret. They know what he is doing, don't agree but they want him to succeed. If he fails they can say "told you so" If he succeeds, they can praise him and then punish him depending on the results. Overall an excellent addition to the series. I hope there is more but the ending was nebulous and could be considered an ending to the series. I really enjoyed this book.
Profile Image for Chitalu Andrew Kabalika.
38 reviews2 followers
December 10, 2021
This book was a little shorter than I was expecting and while I loved it, unfortunately I did not quite enjoy it as much as I enjoyed the previous two books, The Second Expedition especially. One thing I did particularly enjoy in this book, was just how much Wu Ying has progressed with his various skills.

Wu Ying may not be a genius but he is certainly gifted in his own way and I felt that was displayed very well in this book. The first quarter of the story shows just how competent our protagonist has become. I especially enjoyed reading his interactions with various Sects which I felt harkened back to the first instalment of this series. I hope we see more of Wu Ying's wandering adventures in the next arc.

I also really enjoyed Wu Ying's efforts to find his personal dao and just his musings in general. I really appreciate the author's focus on the philosophical aspects of cultivation and how he ties that into Wu Ying's development as a character. This, in my eyes, makes A Thousand Li one of the best in the cultivation genre.

The last quarter of the novel left me with mixed feelings. I still greatly enjoyed it, but it was definitely a bittersweet conclusion in my eyes. I have to say, it has me eagerly anticipating the next instalment!
Profile Image for Bender.
452 reviews46 followers
December 6, 2021
Brilliant sequel to the series. We follow Long Wu Ying in yet another underdog quest against overwhelming opponents as we watch him grow in trial by fire. The story moved ahead nicely, pacing is taut and action sequences are nail biting. The ending hits at new directions to the next trilogy and I already can't wait.

Must read for all fans of this genre!
125 reviews3 followers
December 2, 2021
Ok but a bit of a filler
Stared good but then turned to one of my most hated tropes - a kidnapping! The storytelling is a bit frustrating, stressed and simplistic. Quite a few mostly badly sexual comments, while the MC is a stiff child.
Profile Image for William Howe.
1,800 reviews87 followers
December 2, 2021
heck yeah

If you still need reviews to tell you about a series that is already six books long…

A lot of events, all leading to an epic battle…then another. How is he not dead?
2,477 reviews17 followers
July 26, 2022
I tend to think the point of reading about travails is that the hero overcomes them at some point. This series feels like a bait and switch where every time he reaches the top of a hill, we zoom out to reveal it’s the bottom of a mountain, which is itself the bottom of a bigger mountain, etc. if this doesn’t bother you then the writing remains as tight and accomplished as ever.
Profile Image for Akshay.
805 reviews5 followers
January 29, 2024

The Second Storm (A Thousand Li #6) by Tao Wong



The Second Storm continues the epic saga of Jiang Zhu in Tao Wong's A Thousand Li series, delivering another thrilling installment that expands upon the rich tapestry of this captivating fantasy world. Wong once again demonstrates his mastery of the genre, weaving together intricate plot threads, compelling characters, and breathtaking action in a tale that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter.



Wong's writing is as sharp and engaging as ever, drawing readers in with vivid descriptions, well-paced action sequences, and thought-provoking dialogue.



In The Second Storm, Jiang Zhu faces new challenges and adversaries as he continues his quest for mastery in the martial arts and enlightenment in the mystical arts. Wong deftly explores themes of perseverance, sacrifice, and the nature of power, grounding his fantastical tale in relatable human experiences that resonate on a deep emotional level.



The world-building in this installment reaches new heights, with Wong expanding upon the lore and mythology of his fictional universe in ways that are both imaginative and immersive.



Moreover, the character development in The Second Storm is exceptional, with Jiang Zhu and his companions undergoing significant growth and transformation as they confront the trials and tribulations of their journey. The relationships between characters deepen, adding layers of complexity and emotional depth to the story.





Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)



The Second Storm is a triumph of epic fantasy, showcasing Tao Wong's exceptional talent for storytelling and world-building. With its gripping narrative, well-rounded characters, and immersive setting, it is sure to captivate readers from beginning to end.

Profile Image for Urhierefe .
159 reviews
July 1, 2023
Hard work is it's own genius.

Long wu Ying has grown and all his hard work shows. From farmer to cultivator.

When I first read book 1 of this series I honestly didn't know what to expect I was so used to cultivator who cheated they're way Through life and progress itself foiling the fate of others to further they're own powers. But... This book showed me the real cultivation, how the extras in those regression cultivation novel struggled, the sweat, tears and pain to reach for immortality.

From book 1 to book 6 the MC has grown and his journey is slow and steady, another thing about this series I found hard to get into at first was the fact that the MC wasn't actually into violence, but as the novel progresses along with Wu Ying I find that maybe violence isn't always the way and maybe sometimes wandering and gathering herbs can be just as interesting, and the MC doesn't need violence for violence is part of the middle Kingdoms.

Anyways this book is also high on Emotions and among the high emotions Wu Ying shines bright, former farmer and now herb gather, parised by core cultivators for his brilliance.

This book has just become my best cultivation book. Not that I've read many but clearly this book should not be placed with the majority of cultivation books, this should be the book that sets the standard
274 reviews
May 25, 2024
NO SPOILERS.

The gloves are off. Hell has been unleashed. The Verdant Green Waters Sect was struck by the Dark Sect. Hard. Author Tao Wong pulled out all the stops in THE SECOND STORM . And all this occurred while Wu Ying was away!

Does Wu Ying want revenge? Payback? Yes! But he can't have it, not allowed. The Elders have forbidden it. Of course that won't stop Wu Ying and friends!

A Thousand Li book 6 has everything you love about the series and more. Then it went up one more level. Made it bloody. Real bloody. Bodies dropped. Lots of people died. Lots.

Many new characters are introduced. The interaction of those characters with our familiar ones was too short in some instances. But probably couldn't be helped. Had to get to the fighting. Then the conclusion was unexpected. A real tough loss. Then it got worse after that!

Really enjoying the A Thousand Li series.
Profile Image for Doug Lohse.
52 reviews
December 6, 2021
Toil and Travail. These are the tools of greatness.

Once again, Wu Ying is trapped with too many bad options and too few good ones. And that is one of the keys to what makes this series so spectacular. Our hero is far more powerful than he was when he set out but it is never enough to deal with the forces arrayed against him. He is not even the strongest amongst his friends but he pushed himself ever on to improve, to grow.

A story like this is a rare gem in the genre with the MC not overpowered and not receiving favors left and right. He struggles and, even though there are those who would aid him, he is ultimately alone on his path. It is a path of tragedy and toil, but truly that is what makes it a path worth pursuing.

We are privileged to be able to follow along and watch. Truly privileged.
Profile Image for Chuck McIntyre.
109 reviews3 followers
December 19, 2021
The pacing picks up in this installment, which is good because as I wrote in the last review the slow play was getting tiresome. We fast forward in time about 2 years (not a spoiler, because that is in the first few pages).

The Second Storm plot advances the Dark Sect's agenda even further. A major attack (no spoilers) on our hero's sect ups the ante both personally and professionally for our MC. One again, our MC is left to pick up the pieces.

Good fight sequences, good character development and good overall story pacing. I would like to see more of our MC developing his personal cultivation base and fighting style with real meaningful progress, but overall this was fun.

I hope to learn more about our hero's personal cultivation advancement and fighting style development with *MAJOR* breakthroughs next story though, back to slow play will not be acceptable!
Profile Image for Cameron.
283 reviews9 followers
December 3, 2021
Great Series One of the Best in Genre

This series is my favorite cultivation series. It is one that truly grasps the dao and explains it to a western person like myself in a way that I can understand.

And that’s what is beautiful about it to me. To share that connection or culture and cultivation in a book and themes I can connect with. A story I understand.

Tao Wong is probably the best in the business in that regard. Demonstrating an understanding of the Xianxia stories and perfectly structuring them for a western audience.

Please read this book if you love cultivation - you won’t be disappointed.
Profile Image for TBRBooks.
90 reviews8 followers
July 7, 2025
A Thousand Li: The Second Storm by Tao Wong

In book 6 Wu Ying must defy the sect to save his martial sister and many others kidnapped by the dark sect.

My favorite part of these books is despite the trials that Wu Ying faces he will always choose to remain a good guy. I was devastated by a few deaths in this one though. I was taken completely by surprise. I enjoy how close he is with his friends and how they are always willing to help him regardless of the danger. Each book is filled with plenty of action and danger and tidbits of history all of which keep me truly invested in Wu Ying’s story.
137 reviews
January 13, 2022
Minar spoilers at best.

This had good and bad things liked length don't agree with people said was too short and liked death of yu kun never liked it much. Also looking forward to next book and hopefully solo journey.
Won't go on and could give a long list of good and bad in story as lot of it felt pointless at times and way too many characters really.

P.s.
Could really do with added characters page at end of book as hard remember who is who & at least for me even most genders I'm sorry to say.
14 reviews
December 4, 2021
Best one by far

The author continues to refine their writing and craft. They lead you with suspenseful action teasing you throughout on what might happen next. It's a story that seems potentially predictable, but leaves you wanting much more and feeling like you were just reading the cradle series by will wight. It fantastic, entertaining, cruel, and most of all sad. If you been reading then it only gets better. If you've just discovered, every book is better than the last.
21 reviews
December 10, 2021
Honest

There is an undercurrent of honesty in this series. Life is not without struggles, setbacks, failures, and tragedy. The MC experiences all of these. He also has hard work, good luck, and fortunate encounters. Definitely take the time to read this series as an antidote to those where the MC never really struggles and all the good fortune just happens to fall into their lap when they need it.
Profile Image for Mary Buff.
13 reviews
May 28, 2022
A new world view

These first six books in this series are my first time reading this author. Its like a look into a whole different culture. A different philosophy or approach to life. Yet at the same time the characters have the same types of problems and emotions to deal with that we all do. The book gives insight and another way of looking at how we deal with life's challenges. I look forward to more books.
Profile Image for Chris.
194 reviews7 followers
June 19, 2024
What a great story! I still don't understand why people think this series is so bland. The slice of life aspect is tied in really will with the action and overall story. Wu Ying may be a tad bit surface level but that is due to his upbringing and I don't find that as a negative. I was really hoping there would be a little move "development" in this one, but alas I'll have to wait until the next book.
1 review
December 2, 2021
Best one yet

I never give reviews but the way this book was written, made me do it. The way Wu Ying was written felt like being in the head of burgeoning Daoist, which main character is, but so many books fail to capture this mentality that it was almost shocking. Anyway great job Tao Wong I am waiting for your next installment with baited breath.
209 reviews
December 5, 2021
First one in a while that I’ve really enjoyed.

A lot of cultivation stories suffer from endless meandering. This book actually had some significant plot points, which was nice.

If I was being critical though, I would say that the amount of plot that’s been covered in the seven books so far could probably have been covered in four. Maybe five.
Profile Image for Stephen Morley.
198 reviews8 followers
December 8, 2021
Too short and philosophical

I liked the book. Hence the 4 stars. I just feel like it was too short, and some of that is due to the philosophical melodrama that takes up most of the book.

The actual story and point of the book was interesting. The journey took some slow turns but the end was good.
Profile Image for Andrey Lukyanenko.
342 reviews8 followers
December 11, 2021
I really like this series.

Steady and slow progression, contemplations about the dao, the balance between good and bad things happening to the heroes, the contrast between the "simpler" fights of less advanced fighters and wonderful descriptions of Elders' battles.

This book has the same style as the previous ones and I like it. Looking forward to reading the next one!
Profile Image for RandomLibrarian.
132 reviews5 followers
January 15, 2022
Took me a while to get through this one. The ending was satisfying but I still often times wondering. Why do we get such lengthy exposition with little relation to progression, and then major plot alterations in a page or two. Definitely can't agree this book was filler, but it didn't feel as consistent plot wise as the last two books. Will def be reading the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews

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