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The First Step

Book 1 in the series:A Thousand Li

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'The First Step' in the series 'A Thousand Li' by Tao Wong follows the journey of a peasant cultivator named Wu Ying as he navigates the world of cultivation. The book offers a unique perspective by focusing on Wu Ying's growth and challenges, showcasing his determination and struggles to prove himself in a world filled with organizational and class politics. The writing style captures the essence of classic Chinese fantasy, incorporating rich world-building, authentic martial arts elements, and cultural references that immerse readers in a deep and lived-in setting.

The plot of 'The First Step' delves into Wu Ying's progression from a novice cultivator to facing tough challenges, unlearning social behaviors, and striving to be more than mediocre. The story unfolds with a blend of character development, relationship building, and personal growth, highlighting the memorable characters and their interactions as they adapt to their surroundings and realities. Despite facing obstacles and setbacks, Wu Ying's journey is portrayed as a continuous effort to overcome his limitations and evolve both personally and in his cultivation skills.

Characters:

The characters, led by the relatable protagonist Wu Ying, experience significant growth and development, with a strong focus on their relationships and struggles.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is accessible and engaging, incorporating cultural footnotes and reflections while balancing humor and serious themes.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on Wu Ying, a peasant navigating the challenges of a harsh cultivation world, where he gradually strives to prove his worth and grow amidst adversity.

Setting:

The setting is a richly built world that reflects ancient Chinese culture, deeply integrated with themes of cultivation and societal structure.

Pacing:

Pacing is slow and deliberate, prioritizing character development over action, though it includes periods of tension and conflict.
Waiting for their reaction, the thin, mustached older teacher stared at the students seated cross-legged before him. Apparently not seeing the reaction he wanted, the teacher flung the long, trailing ...

Notes:

Tao Wong is praised for writing the best cultivation book, focusing on realistic and relatable characters.
The main character, Wu Ying, starts as a peasant farmer's son with no legacy and faces significant challenges.
In the first book, Wu Ying joins a cultivation sect after a life-changing opportunity in the army.
The series does not follow the typical overpowered main character trope; Wu Ying struggles like an underdog.
Character development is a key theme, focusing on Wu Ying and his friends, with their struggles and growth.
The series incorporates Chinese proverbs and cultural references, making it relatable and rich in context.
Tao Wong uses footnotes to explain cultural concepts, enhancing understanding for readers unfamiliar with them.
The narrative includes both personal and external challenges the protagonist faces, promoting a slice-of-life feel.
The books progress slowly, emphasizing character development over constant action and power-up moments.
Despite controversy surrounding the author, many still admire the series for its depth and storytelling.
A Thousand Li is touted as a solid starting point for readers interested in the xianxia genre.

From The Publisher:

Long Wu Ying never expected to join a Sect or become a real cultivator. His days were spent studying, planting rice on the family farm and spending time with his friends. Fate, however, has different plans for Wu Ying and when the army arrives at his village, he and many other members of the village are conscripted. Given the opportunity to join the Verdant Green Waters Sect, Wu Ying must decide between his pedestrian, common life and the exciting, blood soaked life of a cultivator.

Join Wu Ying as he takes his first step on his Thousand Li journey to become an immortal cultivator.

The First Step is the first novel in A Thousand Li series, a book on cultivation, immortals, wondrous martial art styles and spirit beasts and will be loved by wuxia and xanxia fans. The First Step is written by Tao Wong, the bestselling scifi and fantasy LitRPG author of the System Apocalypse, Adventures on Brad and the Hidden Wishes.

Ratings (55)

Incredible (3)
Loved It (10)
Liked It (23)
It Was OK (10)
Did Not Like (8)
Hated It (1)

Reader Stats (98):

Read It (55)
Currently Reading (5)
Want To Read (18)
Did Not Finish (6)
Not Interested (14)

3 comment(s)

It Was OK
2 months

Toxic author. Books might be good but I won't read them.

 
Did Not Like
12 months

Slow pacing

 
Liked It
1 year

Liked the first few books, but the later ones not as much.

 
 
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