Book review of A Thousand Li: the Fourth Fall

by Tao Wong (Author)

Updated at: 23/02/2025

In Tao Wong's eleventh installment of the acclaimed A Thousand Li xianxia series, A Thousand Li: The Fourth Fall, the fragile peace between Wei and Shen hangs precariously. A devastating drought fuels Cai's aggressive expansionism, forcing an uneasy alliance between the neighboring kingdoms. Wu Ying, the pragmatic Head of the Wandering Gatherers, finds himself thrust into high-stakes political negotiations, far from his humble farming roots. This second book of the final arc sees Wu Ying navigate treacherous courtly intrigue and the moral complexities of power, all while the looming threat of Cai's relentless king and the demands of his own immortal cultivation weigh heavily upon him. Can peace be achieved, or will the blade decide the fate of the kingdoms? This thrilling chapter explores themes of morality, power, and the enduring quest for immortality.

4.6 / 738 ratings

Review A Thousand Li

A Thousand Li: The Fourth Fall, the eleventh installment in Tao Wong's sprawling xianxia series, is a mixed bag, a testament to both the author's strengths and the inherent challenges of a long-running saga. Having followed Wu Ying's journey for some time now, I can say that while this book isn't the strongest entry, it still holds a significant place in the overall narrative.

One of the most immediately striking aspects is the shift in focus. Gone is the relentless, breakneck pace of some earlier books, replaced with a more deliberate exploration of international politics and the moral ambiguities inherent in high-stakes diplomacy. This change in tempo isn't necessarily a bad thing; it allows for a deeper dive into Wu Ying's character and his evolving understanding of his own power, his Dao, and his place in the world. We see him grapple with the complexities of negotiation, betrayal, and the sheer weight of responsibility that comes with being a pivotal figure in a world teetering on the brink of war. The author’s skill in depicting Wu Ying’s internal struggles, his unique perspective described with a truly enjoyable writing style, shines through. Even amidst the political machinations, his fundamental nature, rooted in his humble beginnings as a farmer, remains a compelling anchor.

However, the slower pace does present some challenges. The extended discussions of diplomacy and political maneuvering, while integral to the plot, can at times feel protracted and bog down the narrative flow. Several reviewers mentioned this slow start and the feeling of repetitive political talks, and I found myself nodding along in agreement. This is particularly evident in the middle section, where the book seems to prioritize meticulous detail over propulsive momentum. Some readers might find themselves losing patience, longing for the more action-oriented sequences that have characterized previous books.

The action sequences themselves, when they arrive, are generally well-executed. They are intense and impactful without being overly protracted, maintaining the gripping quality that has always been a hallmark of Wong's writing. The fights are momentous and well-described, focusing on the crucial parts. This skillful balance of detail and brevity is a welcome counterpoint to the slower-paced political discussions.

Finally, while the overall story is compelling, some minor issues persist. As several readers have pointed out, the book suffers from a higher-than-usual number of typos and grammatical errors. While not significantly detrimental to the overall reading experience, these errors occasionally disrupt the immersion and detract from the overall polish. These are easily fixable issues, hopefully addressed in future editions.

In conclusion, A Thousand Li: The Fourth Fall isn't a perfect book, but it's a significant one within the context of the larger series. Its slower pace and focus on political intrigue might not appeal to all readers, but the exploration of Wu Ying's character arc and the increasing stakes make it a worthwhile read for those invested in this long-running saga. The promise of the final book keeps the reader engaged, despite the frustrations of this particular installment. It serves as a bridge between the earlier action-packed chapters and the climactic finale, setting the stage for the ultimate confrontation.

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