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A Thousand Li #8
A Thousand Li: The Third Realm: A Xianxia Cultivation Novel
Heaven commands and the Middle Kingdom Obeys
Or so the story goes. Yet, as Wu Ying travels the lands beyond the kingdom of Shen, he sees both the minor and major truth of reality. Disparate forms of government, among kingdoms and villages, among immortal sects and mortal governance abound, each with their own interpretation.
As Wu Ying chases the traces of the Heaven's Wind, grasping at the truth it so elusively dangles before him, he must also contend with his own place under the Heaven's. Or among them.
The Third Realm is book eight of the xianxia cultivation series A Thousand Li . The series is about immortal cultivation, wondrous martial art styles and spirit beasts and will be loved by wuxia and xianxia fans. The Third Realm is written by Tao Wong, the bestselling scifi and fantasy LitRPG author of the System Apocalypse, Adventures on Brad and the Hidden Wishes .
Or so the story goes. Yet, as Wu Ying travels the lands beyond the kingdom of Shen, he sees both the minor and major truth of reality. Disparate forms of government, among kingdoms and villages, among immortal sects and mortal governance abound, each with their own interpretation.
As Wu Ying chases the traces of the Heaven's Wind, grasping at the truth it so elusively dangles before him, he must also contend with his own place under the Heaven's. Or among them.
The Third Realm is book eight of the xianxia cultivation series A Thousand Li . The series is about immortal cultivation, wondrous martial art styles and spirit beasts and will be loved by wuxia and xianxia fans. The Third Realm is written by Tao Wong, the bestselling scifi and fantasy LitRPG author of the System Apocalypse, Adventures on Brad and the Hidden Wishes .
499 pages, Hardcover
First published February 1, 2023
262 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
About the author
Tao Wong
154 books922 followersTao Wong is a Canadian author based in Toronto who is best known for his System Apocalypse post-apocalyptic LitRPG series and A Thousand Li, a Chinese xianxia fantasy series. His work has been released in audio, paperback, hardcover and ebook formats and translated into German, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian and other languages. He was shortlisted for the UK Kindle Storyteller award in 2021 for his work, A Thousand Li: the Second Sect.
When he’s not writing and working, he’s practicing martial arts, reading and dreaming up new worlds.
Tao became a full-time author in 2019 and is a member of SF Canada, the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA) and ALLI.
When he’s not writing and working, he’s practicing martial arts, reading and dreaming up new worlds.
Tao became a full-time author in 2019 and is a member of SF Canada, the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA) and ALLI.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
June 16, 2025
I honestly really enjoyed this novel. It is the longest in the series as far as years covered goes, and really just shows the main character wondering. Overall, really fun, lots of interesting places visited, and a lot of growth. I think the series found its stride here with the character exploring the world.
The one lack I would say is the series really doesn't have a "villain" so far. There are hints set up for the future, but no single force has been identified so far, and we are on book 8.
The one lack I would say is the series really doesn't have a "villain" so far. There are hints set up for the future, but no single force has been identified so far, and we are on book 8.
January 5, 2023
My favorite book of the series.
This book truly shows Wu Ying's path to cultivation with mostly fascinating short stories instead of one big one, which I think is a great way to expand the world, introduce many new interesting characters and perspectives and really show the journey of cultivation.
Overall I think the book was great and definitely better than the previous one, finally it focused more on the actual exploration and cultivation and I'm looking forward to the next one and hopefully many beyond.
This book truly shows Wu Ying's path to cultivation with mostly fascinating short stories instead of one big one, which I think is a great way to expand the world, introduce many new interesting characters and perspectives and really show the journey of cultivation.
Overall I think the book was great and definitely better than the previous one, finally it focused more on the actual exploration and cultivation and I'm looking forward to the next one and hopefully many beyond.
February 1, 2023
like a leaf in the wind
Strong progression as the MC travels far and wide searching for inspiration and enlightenment. Not always entirely fortunate, he continues to grow.
Been waiting for this for a while. I consider this series to be the strongest ‘classic’ cultivation story.
Strong progression as the MC travels far and wide searching for inspiration and enlightenment. Not always entirely fortunate, he continues to grow.
Been waiting for this for a while. I consider this series to be the strongest ‘classic’ cultivation story.
February 9, 2023
a collection of short stories
Clearly just a transition novel. No central plot. No overarching story. Just several small stories most of which are rather meh. I love cultivation books and I think Tao Wong is a great author. But he frequently has these filler books and that’s kind of annoying.
Clearly just a transition novel. No central plot. No overarching story. Just several small stories most of which are rather meh. I love cultivation books and I think Tao Wong is a great author. But he frequently has these filler books and that’s kind of annoying.
March 6, 2023
Still the best in the genre.
Simply the best. Wong mixes a love of the genre with erudite study of history and the Chinese classics to weave a story of a mythic Warring States China as we dream it was, while making it very approachable to a western audience. The closest I can compare it to is the The Chronicles of Master Li and Number Ten Ox series by Hugart, but less fantastical and more based in the "cultivation" and Progression Fantasy genres.
Simply the best. Wong mixes a love of the genre with erudite study of history and the Chinese classics to weave a story of a mythic Warring States China as we dream it was, while making it very approachable to a western audience. The closest I can compare it to is the The Chronicles of Master Li and Number Ten Ox series by Hugart, but less fantastical and more based in the "cultivation" and Progression Fantasy genres.
January 27, 2025
Quite the departure
This book is unlike all that came before. This book can fly.
Out of the sect and wandering the world, Wu Ying has become a legend whispered by peasants and cultivators alike. There is no sure way to tell how many years pass in this book, other than word has it that Wu Ying's parents are still alive. There are so many adventures and encounters and experiences both great and terrible.
This is what most people were surely expecting what they started this series. It took a long time to get to this place. Would it be the same if we had started here and missed the years of struggle?
This book is unlike all that came before. This book can fly.
Out of the sect and wandering the world, Wu Ying has become a legend whispered by peasants and cultivators alike. There is no sure way to tell how many years pass in this book, other than word has it that Wu Ying's parents are still alive. There are so many adventures and encounters and experiences both great and terrible.
This is what most people were surely expecting what they started this series. It took a long time to get to this place. Would it be the same if we had started here and missed the years of struggle?
February 9, 2023
Great collection of short stories. The only thing which ties it into the series is missive he received, other than that he's on a walkabout. None of the stories tie in to the plot. Useless.
Looks like the standalone books weren't selling so Wong just bunched them together into a novel. You can completely skip this one for sure and you wouldn't miss much.
Looks like the standalone books weren't selling so Wong just bunched them together into a novel. You can completely skip this one for sure and you wouldn't miss much.
January 29, 2024
The Third Realm (A Thousand Li #8) by Tao Wong Review:
The Third Realm is the eighth installment in Tao Wong's A Thousand Li series, continuing the epic journey of protagonist Jiang Zhu as he navigates the intricate politics and dangers of a fantastical world inspired by Chinese mythology. While Wong's series has garnered a dedicated following for its rich world-building and compelling characters, this latest entry may leave some readers feeling conflicted.
Wong's writing remains polished and descriptive, immersing readers in a vividly realized world filled with magic, martial arts, and political intrigue.
However, despite the strengths of Wong's prose, The Third Realm struggles to maintain the same level of momentum and excitement that characterized earlier installments in the series. The pacing feels uneven at times, with certain sections dragging while others rush past crucial plot points, leaving little time for meaningful development or exploration.
The world-building continues to impress, with Wong expanding upon the mythology and history of his fictional universe in intriguing ways.
Yet, for all its intricate detail, The Third Realm fails to deliver on the promise of its premise. Plot threads introduced in previous books are left dangling or resolved in unsatisfying ways, leaving readers feeling frustrated and unfulfilled. Additionally, some character arcs feel underdeveloped or hastily concluded, robbing the story of emotional resonance.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
The Third Realm is a mixed bag, offering moments of brilliance amidst a sea of missed opportunities. While it may satisfy die-hard fans eager for another glimpse into the world of A Thousand Li, it may leave others longing for the magic and excitement of earlier installments.
February 6, 2023
Great addition
Tao Wong is one of my favorite modern authors. He has the imagination, diligence, and wordsmithing to make each genre distinct and a pleasure to read. Honestly my only complaint, minus a few minor typos, is that this book took longer to come out than others in the series :/. This book was an absolute pleasure to read, and while more of a series of short stories and a bridge to a larger narrative, I still felt connected to Long and his journey. Can't wait for the next one!
Tao Wong is one of my favorite modern authors. He has the imagination, diligence, and wordsmithing to make each genre distinct and a pleasure to read. Honestly my only complaint, minus a few minor typos, is that this book took longer to come out than others in the series :/. This book was an absolute pleasure to read, and while more of a series of short stories and a bridge to a larger narrative, I still felt connected to Long and his journey. Can't wait for the next one!
February 4, 2023
This book is fun, fills out the world a bit more, and gives us a good sense of Wu Ying's life as a "Core Formation" cultivator, but it doesn't really seem to advance the plot very much, except in the sense that his cultivation is part of the plot and we see many advancements to that. In video game terms, this book seemed to be mostly side quests to grind levels. It was still a good time though!
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February 2, 2023Have you finished The Third Realm?
Read the bonus scene or listen to the audio version!
Read the bonus scene or listen to the audio version!
March 11, 2024
ENLIGHTENMENT!
lots of ups and downs, by far my favorite entry so far.
lots of ups and downs, by far my favorite entry so far.
March 2, 2023
Interesting but unexpected change In style and formula.
The truth is this was not the book I expected from the previous book’s ending, nor what the title led me to believe it would be about. Travis Baldree bring his A game as narrator as usual. I feel that Wong could have written an entire book about the mysterious mystical realm hinted at in the previous book but decided to use this book as a way to do a show and tell time jump in order to get to the next big idea and future reunion with previous characters without the blunt 10 year time jump between books. Of course I might be totally wrong considering all I know about the next book is a blurb.
This book is a transition book, the first in the series. It does not contain a real beginning, middle, and end as much as it is a flow of separate events following the previous book. We see our hero settled for a time but get drilled in us that his place in the world is untethered as he goes where the wind blows. Thus the time of self discovery and navel gazing in the midst of action and growth. Growth in which it has been said at this stage is often measured in months and years rather than days.
To be blunt it was off putting that what we got was not what I expected, it might have been better for Wong to have the title and blurb indicate the break in formula. As it really does feel like a collection of short stories set in between a desired time jump and growth point of a character that we might have gotten off page and explained by hints in the next books.
That said, this book was also a world building-gasim that was necessary given the untethered nature of the character. We get to see many interesting characters, cultures, and ways of cultivation. We also get to some really surprising meetings that were hinted at in the previous books but the author shift the characters focus at some point to not pursue growth in that direction.
Overall it is an interesting addition to the series that will be irksome to those that want a solid story, an entertaining hold over for those that see it for what it is as the next book comes, or the greatest thing ever for those that slap 5 stars on everything written under the sun.
The truth is this was not the book I expected from the previous book’s ending, nor what the title led me to believe it would be about. Travis Baldree bring his A game as narrator as usual. I feel that Wong could have written an entire book about the mysterious mystical realm hinted at in the previous book but decided to use this book as a way to do a show and tell time jump in order to get to the next big idea and future reunion with previous characters without the blunt 10 year time jump between books. Of course I might be totally wrong considering all I know about the next book is a blurb.
This book is a transition book, the first in the series. It does not contain a real beginning, middle, and end as much as it is a flow of separate events following the previous book. We see our hero settled for a time but get drilled in us that his place in the world is untethered as he goes where the wind blows. Thus the time of self discovery and navel gazing in the midst of action and growth. Growth in which it has been said at this stage is often measured in months and years rather than days.
To be blunt it was off putting that what we got was not what I expected, it might have been better for Wong to have the title and blurb indicate the break in formula. As it really does feel like a collection of short stories set in between a desired time jump and growth point of a character that we might have gotten off page and explained by hints in the next books.
That said, this book was also a world building-gasim that was necessary given the untethered nature of the character. We get to see many interesting characters, cultures, and ways of cultivation. We also get to some really surprising meetings that were hinted at in the previous books but the author shift the characters focus at some point to not pursue growth in that direction.
Overall it is an interesting addition to the series that will be irksome to those that want a solid story, an entertaining hold over for those that see it for what it is as the next book comes, or the greatest thing ever for those that slap 5 stars on everything written under the sun.
December 31, 2023
Easily, this is my favorite book in this series. This story was amazing. Wu Ying has finally gotten to a place of great wisdom and he is far along in his cultivation which makes it so much fun. Wu Ying is a wind cultivator and now that he is in Core Formation Stage, he can control the wind enough that he can stand on the wind so it looks like he's flying. It's just so much fun to read.
This is almost like a short story collection. Wu Ying is following the wind and he goes all over the middle Kingdom and into other Kingdoms. He goes North and West and very far North, then East then coastal Oceans and at the end he is heading south, always talking with the wind, listening to the wind and learning about each one.
I think my favorite part of the story, and there are so many to choose from and this is easily my favorite part, is he is staying in a fishing village and a typhoon blows up and Wu Ying dances with the Typhoon. It's so incredible and I loved it. He's blown about and has a blast with it. Then, he goes into years worth of cultivation in a cave to integrate what he learned from that experience. I love that whole part of the story. I was sad he didn't go back to check on his old friend, but oh well.
There are dragons in this story, which is super cool. There are also giant turtles that are awesome. We meet several Nascent Soul Cultivators along the way. Wu Ying meets many cultures, learns languages, he advances like 3 times in this novel which spans 10 years and I loved all the advancements. We meet other sects and we also get to go under the water. Wu Ying finally starts a sex life which was great to know it's happening. Tao never writes in the bed room, but we know things went down. Wu Ying feels more like a real person than ever.
This is the best cultivation novel. I just adore this series. I really want to go directly into Book 9, but I have other things I want to read first. I'll get there. I can't wait to do a re-read. This is so much better than Cradle. I'm so happy with this.
This is almost like a short story collection. Wu Ying is following the wind and he goes all over the middle Kingdom and into other Kingdoms. He goes North and West and very far North, then East then coastal Oceans and at the end he is heading south, always talking with the wind, listening to the wind and learning about each one.
I think my favorite part of the story, and there are so many to choose from and this is easily my favorite part, is he is staying in a fishing village and a typhoon blows up and Wu Ying dances with the Typhoon. It's so incredible and I loved it. He's blown about and has a blast with it. Then, he goes into years worth of cultivation in a cave to integrate what he learned from that experience. I love that whole part of the story. I was sad he didn't go back to check on his old friend, but oh well.
There are dragons in this story, which is super cool. There are also giant turtles that are awesome. We meet several Nascent Soul Cultivators along the way. Wu Ying meets many cultures, learns languages, he advances like 3 times in this novel which spans 10 years and I loved all the advancements. We meet other sects and we also get to go under the water. Wu Ying finally starts a sex life which was great to know it's happening. Tao never writes in the bed room, but we know things went down. Wu Ying feels more like a real person than ever.
This is the best cultivation novel. I just adore this series. I really want to go directly into Book 9, but I have other things I want to read first. I'll get there. I can't wait to do a re-read. This is so much better than Cradle. I'm so happy with this.
July 1, 2023
From being the humble student to respected Elder
Wu Ying has grown, and I feel like I have actually walked with him every step of the way, something that most cultivation story lacks due to the lack of emotions between the reader and the MC, but... Not here
Wu Ying, once the student learning every step of a masters sword technique to better his own, now becomes the master showing temporary students just a glimpse of his technique, just look how far we've come.
In this book, though, most might call it a book of short stories and say that there is no overreaching plot, well yes. But is that not the path we chose to follow when we picked up the first book of this series, what is cultivation if not the development of the mind and self before the strength of one's blade.
Although Wu Ying might not have struggled with his bloodline or reduced his martial sister, this novel does something that most other cultivation novels fail to do, follow the MC through a long period of time in which nothing overreaching actually happens, one of the things that tires me out in most progression fantasy is the lack of rest on the MC part, no time to take things slow or at his/her own pace, MC might only get the chance to cultivate for two years then the moment he/she breaks out of there cultivation something overreaching is happening.
Life just doesn't work. That way, every human under the heaven will buckle under pressure eventually, and the earth shall accept.
This book shows us Wu Yings' journey through years, and I loved it . Most of all the character I feel like I'm reading about a brother.
And. I can't wait for the next book and see what the winds of heaven have installe for Wu Yang
Wu Ying has grown, and I feel like I have actually walked with him every step of the way, something that most cultivation story lacks due to the lack of emotions between the reader and the MC, but... Not here
Wu Ying, once the student learning every step of a masters sword technique to better his own, now becomes the master showing temporary students just a glimpse of his technique, just look how far we've come.
In this book, though, most might call it a book of short stories and say that there is no overreaching plot, well yes. But is that not the path we chose to follow when we picked up the first book of this series, what is cultivation if not the development of the mind and self before the strength of one's blade.
Although Wu Ying might not have struggled with his bloodline or reduced his martial sister, this novel does something that most other cultivation novels fail to do, follow the MC through a long period of time in which nothing overreaching actually happens, one of the things that tires me out in most progression fantasy is the lack of rest on the MC part, no time to take things slow or at his/her own pace, MC might only get the chance to cultivate for two years then the moment he/she breaks out of there cultivation something overreaching is happening.
Life just doesn't work. That way, every human under the heaven will buckle under pressure eventually, and the earth shall accept.
This book shows us Wu Yings' journey through years, and I loved it . Most of all the character I feel like I'm reading about a brother.
And. I can't wait for the next book and see what the winds of heaven have installe for Wu Yang
February 8, 2023
Rating 5.0 stars
This is turning into one of my favorite cultivation series, right along with the Cradle series. This series has the one thing that I think most cultivation books lack, heart. The MC isn't out to gain power for power's sake. He is looking to find his place in the world. He is searching for his own path and is willing to do what it takes to walk it. This is one of the few times where I think the series is better the longer it goes on. There is a duality to the story that is more present in the later books. The MC is both an expert and someone who has a lot to learn. He is very powerful but also has a long way to go with other people much more powerful than himself. He is a wanderer who loves to spend time exploring, but also wants to be around new people. There is philosophy about life. There are infinite paths, but none are correct, but that also means that no path is a wrong path either. The journey is what's important, it may or may not lead you where you want to go. It might lead you to where you are needed. The MC does more traveling, meeting new people and having new experiences. He gets more knowledge and more power along the way. He goes where the wind takes him. Overall, I really enjoyed this installment in the series. I can't wait for the next one.
This is turning into one of my favorite cultivation series, right along with the Cradle series. This series has the one thing that I think most cultivation books lack, heart. The MC isn't out to gain power for power's sake. He is looking to find his place in the world. He is searching for his own path and is willing to do what it takes to walk it. This is one of the few times where I think the series is better the longer it goes on. There is a duality to the story that is more present in the later books. The MC is both an expert and someone who has a lot to learn. He is very powerful but also has a long way to go with other people much more powerful than himself. He is a wanderer who loves to spend time exploring, but also wants to be around new people. There is philosophy about life. There are infinite paths, but none are correct, but that also means that no path is a wrong path either. The journey is what's important, it may or may not lead you where you want to go. It might lead you to where you are needed. The MC does more traveling, meeting new people and having new experiences. He gets more knowledge and more power along the way. He goes where the wind takes him. Overall, I really enjoyed this installment in the series. I can't wait for the next one.
February 8, 2023
Very good 'Western adaptations of wuxia
I have say the Thousand Li has slowly grown to be one of my favourite Cultivation novels. Long Wu Ying started 6 books ago as a peasant whose bravery got him a chance into a cultivation sect. Book 8 finally transitions him from a journeymen into an Elder over a 10 year travelogue presented as a series of short stories.
I enjoy the slow burn and the back to basics approach taken. I also enjoy that the Dao envisioned by Wong actually focuses on personal growth. For example one of stories has Wu Ying being pressured to surrender a treasure by a sect he is visiting. The character in earlier novels would have either complied under duress or fought his way free. Both actions would have dimnished him. (either the humiliation of being coerced or by creating enemies). However he shows his growth by turning the situation to his advantage by surrendering something he has no immediate use for and enhancing his reputation in the long run. You have to be true to your nature to advance.
This is in contrast with the implistic win at everything at all costs Cultivation novels which are more prevalent.
Finally, the book is well written with good prose and pacing.
My only criticism is that Magistrate Di was referenced as a real character in Book7 but stated as fictional in Book 8.
I have say the Thousand Li has slowly grown to be one of my favourite Cultivation novels. Long Wu Ying started 6 books ago as a peasant whose bravery got him a chance into a cultivation sect. Book 8 finally transitions him from a journeymen into an Elder over a 10 year travelogue presented as a series of short stories.
I enjoy the slow burn and the back to basics approach taken. I also enjoy that the Dao envisioned by Wong actually focuses on personal growth. For example one of stories has Wu Ying being pressured to surrender a treasure by a sect he is visiting. The character in earlier novels would have either complied under duress or fought his way free. Both actions would have dimnished him. (either the humiliation of being coerced or by creating enemies). However he shows his growth by turning the situation to his advantage by surrendering something he has no immediate use for and enhancing his reputation in the long run. You have to be true to your nature to advance.
This is in contrast with the implistic win at everything at all costs Cultivation novels which are more prevalent.
Finally, the book is well written with good prose and pacing.
My only criticism is that Magistrate Di was referenced as a real character in Book7 but stated as fictional in Book 8.
October 21, 2023
The lone cultivator
So in this book Wu Ying wanders by himself for years, having inky brief interactions with other people. Non of these people matter really, we talk about them like their important, but it was stated best by Wu Ying, he helps them by his whim. There is no connection, no community, no reason to care. Thus was basically ab entire book about a training montage where nothing happened except wu Ying got stronger (yes it showed that he helped good people and stopped bad people along the way).
This was my least favorite book in the series so far, solely based on the lack of a story being told. In previous novels we have a family, a community, a sect, and friends we are working with and trying to save and grow. There is a purpose that we are tied to. Here we just wander aimlessly.... and it didn't do it for me. You could likely skip this book with the sentence, "wu Ying travels and cultivates for 10 years getting stronger." More of a series of short stories with peripherally covvected to the overarching plot, rather than an actual novel in the third realm arc.
Still a fun read, I can't wait to get back to the rest of the crew in novel 9-10.
So in this book Wu Ying wanders by himself for years, having inky brief interactions with other people. Non of these people matter really, we talk about them like their important, but it was stated best by Wu Ying, he helps them by his whim. There is no connection, no community, no reason to care. Thus was basically ab entire book about a training montage where nothing happened except wu Ying got stronger (yes it showed that he helped good people and stopped bad people along the way).
This was my least favorite book in the series so far, solely based on the lack of a story being told. In previous novels we have a family, a community, a sect, and friends we are working with and trying to save and grow. There is a purpose that we are tied to. Here we just wander aimlessly.... and it didn't do it for me. You could likely skip this book with the sentence, "wu Ying travels and cultivates for 10 years getting stronger." More of a series of short stories with peripherally covvected to the overarching plot, rather than an actual novel in the third realm arc.
Still a fun read, I can't wait to get back to the rest of the crew in novel 9-10.
February 25, 2023
One unfortunately common occurrence in progression fantasy is authors breaking their own rules. Often, this occurs in the form of a character in a weaker power level (usually the protagonist) beating an opponent at a higher power level. In theory this makes the story more exciting, but it happens so often that at this point it has become expected and most of the magic is lost.
Another rule that's broken, though not many people pay attention, is time. The author goes on and on about how hard it is to climb to the top stages of power and shows how the most powerful characters all took decades or centuries to get there. And then the protagonist does it in a couple of years. It's not really a big deal, but it's another instance of conveniently disregarding the limitations that supposedly apply to everyone. The Third Realm is what happens when the author decides to stand by that rule.
This book is, in a nutshell, a handful of short stories with generous time skips (months and years long) in between, and some power ups for Wu Ying along the way. That's it.
Now, I appreciate and respect Tao Wong's decision to showcase the progression happening at a "realistic" pace. I use the quotes because it's more like prodigy-level speed, but still at least it fits within the world logic. But in the end this feels like a side story. I suppose it beats having a 10 year timeskip at the start of a book.
Although Wu Ying goes many places and meets lots of people, I can't bring myself to care about them, because I know soon enough he'll leave and we'll never see them again.
That makes The Third Realm, in my opinion, the weakest book in the series, though I consider it a very much necessary book. I feel like now we got that out of the way and can get back to the actual story, with Wu Ying at the necessary power level to keep going.
The end of the book indicates that the next one will have a more focused story, so I'm optimistic. My only hangup is that it was often mentioned that Wu Ying's wandering is a feature of his dao, something among the lines of "the wind doesn't stay in one place". I hope this perspective changes, because otherwise when he eventually returns to his sect what's going to happen? He'll stay a bit and then leave again?
Another rule that's broken, though not many people pay attention, is time. The author goes on and on about how hard it is to climb to the top stages of power and shows how the most powerful characters all took decades or centuries to get there. And then the protagonist does it in a couple of years. It's not really a big deal, but it's another instance of conveniently disregarding the limitations that supposedly apply to everyone. The Third Realm is what happens when the author decides to stand by that rule.
This book is, in a nutshell, a handful of short stories with generous time skips (months and years long) in between, and some power ups for Wu Ying along the way. That's it.
Now, I appreciate and respect Tao Wong's decision to showcase the progression happening at a "realistic" pace. I use the quotes because it's more like prodigy-level speed, but still at least it fits within the world logic. But in the end this feels like a side story. I suppose it beats having a 10 year timeskip at the start of a book.
Although Wu Ying goes many places and meets lots of people, I can't bring myself to care about them, because I know soon enough he'll leave and we'll never see them again.
That makes The Third Realm, in my opinion, the weakest book in the series, though I consider it a very much necessary book. I feel like now we got that out of the way and can get back to the actual story, with Wu Ying at the necessary power level to keep going.
The end of the book indicates that the next one will have a more focused story, so I'm optimistic. My only hangup is that it was often mentioned that Wu Ying's wandering is a feature of his dao, something among the lines of "the wind doesn't stay in one place". I hope this perspective changes, because otherwise when he eventually returns to his sect what's going to happen? He'll stay a bit and then leave again?
March 9, 2023
As mentioned in a lot of the other reviews, this book is more like a collection of short stories rather than having an overarching plot.
This does make it feel a bit like a filler book or one those character training montages seen in anime.
However it's a nice ride along the way. Each event was pretty interesting and came with a distinct challenge for Wu Ying with some wisdom for him to learn and put towards his cultivation.
As is the case with training montages it's satisfying to see the rapid character growth and makes you look forward to when the character can put their new power to use. Bring on the next book!
This does make it feel a bit like a filler book or one those character training montages seen in anime.
However it's a nice ride along the way. Each event was pretty interesting and came with a distinct challenge for Wu Ying with some wisdom for him to learn and put towards his cultivation.
As is the case with training montages it's satisfying to see the rapid character growth and makes you look forward to when the character can put their new power to use. Bring on the next book!
May 30, 2023
A massive step up from the previous self contained story arcs which were of little consequence - this volume takes the form of a travelogue and covers Wu Ying's experiences outside and away from the sect in a way the previous novels failed to do and fits the incredibly slow cultivation journey in demonstrating why Ying has made the decisions he has in the past
I wish I could go away and come back to ten more volumes of this a the previous 7 feel like the equivalent of Meng Hao's time in the reliance sect of ISSTH (a prologue to the actual cultivation journey) but this isnt a qidian web novel so id probably be waiting several years for Ying to even make it beyond Nascent Soul
I wish I could go away and come back to ten more volumes of this a the previous 7 feel like the equivalent of Meng Hao's time in the reliance sect of ISSTH (a prologue to the actual cultivation journey) but this isnt a qidian web novel so id probably be waiting several years for Ying to even make it beyond Nascent Soul
February 12, 2023
This book was beautiful.
It was a beautiful journey to read about Wu Ying. After all his years, this book showed how much Eu Ying grew up. We have seen him meeting so many wonderful and not-so-wonderful people. Tribes that stick together, kingdoms that want to help those below them dearly, examples of extreme decisions and so much more.
Wu Ying handled a lot of things nicely in this book. In some instances better than I thought.
The winds blow south and I can't wait for what Wu Ying will learn next.
It was a beautiful journey to read about Wu Ying. After all his years, this book showed how much Eu Ying grew up. We have seen him meeting so many wonderful and not-so-wonderful people. Tribes that stick together, kingdoms that want to help those below them dearly, examples of extreme decisions and so much more.
Wu Ying handled a lot of things nicely in this book. In some instances better than I thought.
The winds blow south and I can't wait for what Wu Ying will learn next.
July 26, 2023
Excellent read
I bought the first three books when they were on sale and they sat in my library and when I had completed the last book in a series waiting for another to come out I decided to start it. I'm so glad I did. Now I'm waiting for the next one to be released because the series is extremely enjoyable between the authors notes included on the ebook with links to explain a lot of the background history, etc. It's a very enriching read while being a great cultivation novel.
I bought the first three books when they were on sale and they sat in my library and when I had completed the last book in a series waiting for another to come out I decided to start it. I'm so glad I did. Now I'm waiting for the next one to be released because the series is extremely enjoyable between the authors notes included on the ebook with links to explain a lot of the background history, etc. It's a very enriching read while being a great cultivation novel.
February 9, 2023
One of the best books in the series. It reads more like a travelogue Progression Fantasy as Wu Ying wanders through various areas gaining new experiences and growing both as a person and in Cultivation strength. The pacing is quite even and is a very bingeable page turner. Quite a fun read.
Also moves the story to a nice circle as I predict his travels will take him closer to him and back to his friends soon. Looking forward for the next book eagerly.
Also moves the story to a nice circle as I predict his travels will take him closer to him and back to his friends soon. Looking forward for the next book eagerly.
February 12, 2023
Beauty and Excitement!!
The best Wu Ying novel in awhile and outside the first probably my favorite one so far... I loved seeing a novel based primarily on Wu Ying's progression all while staying true the melodic philosophic writing style that makes these stories so beautiful to read... I expect the next few releases will see a return to the normally sedate pace of the novels.. which isn't bad but boy the excitement of this novel will be sorely missed.
The best Wu Ying novel in awhile and outside the first probably my favorite one so far... I loved seeing a novel based primarily on Wu Ying's progression all while staying true the melodic philosophic writing style that makes these stories so beautiful to read... I expect the next few releases will see a return to the normally sedate pace of the novels.. which isn't bad but boy the excitement of this novel will be sorely missed.
February 19, 2023
A great insight into who Wu Ying is
This is my favorite of the series. I am a huge fan of Tao Wong and avidly read all his series. This is becoming my favorite. System Apocalypse was my previous favorite reading this, I really wish we had this level of depth about John in the forbidden zone- don't get me wrong it's still great on its own but comparing character development I like the personal details of Wu Ying's path more.
Keep up the stellar works
This is my favorite of the series. I am a huge fan of Tao Wong and avidly read all his series. This is becoming my favorite. System Apocalypse was my previous favorite reading this, I really wish we had this level of depth about John in the forbidden zone- don't get me wrong it's still great on its own but comparing character development I like the personal details of Wu Ying's path more.
Keep up the stellar works
April 27, 2023
SO GOOD!
This was my favorite book so far in the series. I wasn’t a fan with his previous book in the series and I was afraid that the story had run its course, but with this new installment Tao Wang has breathed new life into his story. It was so gratifying seeing Wu Yang progress in his cultivation journey, and Tao Wang does a great job with the philosophical side of Wu Yang understanding of his dao. I can’t wait for the next one.
This was my favorite book so far in the series. I wasn’t a fan with his previous book in the series and I was afraid that the story had run its course, but with this new installment Tao Wang has breathed new life into his story. It was so gratifying seeing Wu Yang progress in his cultivation journey, and Tao Wang does a great job with the philosophical side of Wu Yang understanding of his dao. I can’t wait for the next one.
August 9, 2023
More a gap filling travel log covering ten years of character development than a real story.
The horribly prude protagonist finally has some sex life but he stays a bore maniacally concentrated on improving his cultivation. The plot of the whole book could be stated in under two pages. Unfortunately, the happenings that the author only mentions seems to be way more interesting than the parts the story actually focusses on.
The horribly prude protagonist finally has some sex life but he stays a bore maniacally concentrated on improving his cultivation. The plot of the whole book could be stated in under two pages. Unfortunately, the happenings that the author only mentions seems to be way more interesting than the parts the story actually focusses on.
July 12, 2025
A thousand li: the third realm by Tao Wong
Wu Ying is truly a wandering cultivator in book 8, from traveling through kingdoms and fighting powerful beasts to meeting new people and finding new friends.
I have decided that this is my new favorite book! I enjoyed every single page. I felt like I traveled the years right along with Wu Ying. Im eager to see where the wind takes him next!
Wu Ying is truly a wandering cultivator in book 8, from traveling through kingdoms and fighting powerful beasts to meeting new people and finding new friends.
I have decided that this is my new favorite book! I enjoyed every single page. I felt like I traveled the years right along with Wu Ying. Im eager to see where the wind takes him next!
February 5, 2023
Still a great work
Tao does it again. Following Wu Ying has become an obsession, so much so, that I have dropped all other books that I have been reading, just to follow his adventures. I am so looking forward to the next book and hopefully it will find Wu Ying on the homestretch.
Tao does it again. Following Wu Ying has become an obsession, so much so, that I have dropped all other books that I have been reading, just to follow his adventures. I am so looking forward to the next book and hopefully it will find Wu Ying on the homestretch.
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