Lesser Souls: The Path of Celestial Thunder

A Xianxia Cultivation Fantasy Epic

By: D. R. R. Hatch

Narrated by: Teri Snell

In a world of power, Jasmine is the outcast.

No matter how long she meditates, breathing in the vital aura of the world, her soul refuses to cultivate. Her betters say the Heavens forbid it, but Jasmine isn’t so sure. She can’t be destined to live the quiet life of a nun. She is tired of being pushed around and watching others treat her friends like trash. She’ll do anything, even break the peace of the valley, to fix her condition and protect those she loves.

Meanwhile, Ti'Lee is trapped by tradition. His father expects him to become an imperial scholar, but his true passion lies in spiritsmithing—a career that would blacken his family’s name. As the entrance exam for the School of Rising Sun approaches, Ti'Lee must make a choice that will change his destiny forever.

Little do Jasmine and Ti'Lee know, their fates are intertwined, and the choices they make will alter the course of their ever-dying world—a world their Emperor spent centuries building. And he’s not about to let them ruin it.

Step into the world of Ohina and experience a story of bravery, sacrifice, and destiny.

©2023 Dakota Ryder Hatch (P)2023 Dakota Ryder Hatch

well written and preformed

the book is good. it's well written and the narration is well done. I feel people should know before jumping in that the story has a very hopeless feel to it though, like very hopeless, anything good that happens is immediately followed by being curb stomped. Around the 18 hour mark I wasn't sure I wanted to continue because of the hopelessness. it's totally personal preference but I just prefer characters being able to overcome problems and win sometimes, not always but maybe a little victory would be nice without it instantly being taken away and proven unless. it just kinda feels like listening to kids being bullied for 20 something hours without being able to help them.

slow

there is good character progression. good world building. however, I simply found it slow and boring. there are three stories in one, well balanced, but personally I want better focus. the narrator is a bit michanical in her tempo.

Your Next Cultivation Cravings Fix

Enjoyed the two main character POVs. Great world building and character development from the very start! This is an awesome cultivation novel with multiple POVs that intertwine in each other's lives.

Cultivation elements are descriptive, but not overly done where it creates any issues with pacing. The narration is fitting, and easy to listen to. Looking forward to the next!

Fantasy

Lesser Souls is wonderfully written it contains three stories built into one. I love how well the author built the world as well as each individual character, but I will admit it truly got a little confusing. I received this book for free upon my request. I am leaving my honest and unbiased review here voluntarily of my own free will.

not too bad

some issues with the quality of both the material and the reading. overall not bad but could use another edit.