Order of C. Mantis Books

C. Mantis is an author of LitRPG/Xianxia novels. They write the Path of Ascension series. The Path of Ascension series is a mix between LitRPG and Xianxia. On the outside, it seems like a LitRPG with dungeons and skills, but inside, it is all Xianxia.

C. Mantis made their debut in 2022 with The Path of Ascension, beginning the Path of Ascension series. Below is a list of C. Mantis’ books in order of when they were originally released:

Publication Order of The Path of Ascension Books

Publication Order of Anthologies

If You Like C. Mantis Books, You’ll Love…

• Shirtaloon
• Zogarth
• Nicoli Gonnella

C. Mantis Synopses: The Path of Ascension is the first book in the series of the same name from novelist C. Mantis. The Path of Ascension is an epic progression fantasy about resilience, power, and the pursuit of justice in a dangerous world.

Matt has endured unimaginable loss—monsters unleashed from treacherous rifts claimed his city and his family. Driven by vengeance, he dreams of delving these rifts and eliminating the creatures that haunt his past. But when his Talent, rated a mere Tier 1, is deemed more of a hindrance than a help, Matt’s ambitions are crushed. Every guild and group turns him away, leaving him trapped in a world where power and status determine one’s worth.

Forced to abandon his hopes, Matt finds work in a nearby inn, where he encounters a mysterious, formidable couple who see beyond his Tier rating. Recognizing Matt’s drive and potential, they offer him an opportunity to join the Path of Ascension—a renowned empire-wide challenge where individuals race to elevate their Tiers, growing in strength, skill, and influence with each victory. With their backing and a stolen Skill, Matt begins his journey toward the heights of power.

Along the way, Matt confronts ruthless rivals, deadly beasts, and the limitations of his own abilities. Each battle forces him to push past his Tier’s constraints, sharpening his strength and spirit with each step. The journey is not only about his vengeance but also about self-discovery, revealing the unexpected allies and unique strengths that even a Tier 1 Talent can bring.

As Matt climbs the Tiers and uncovers secrets hidden within the Path of Ascension, he discovers that true power is more complex than raw strength or rank. His quest for vengeance evolves into a struggle not only for justice but also for survival in a world where legends are forged in the fires of conflict and hardship.

The Path of Ascension 2 by C. Mantis continues the epic journey of Matt, Liz, and Aster as they push deeper into the vast, uncharted frontier. With a new, unexpected ally joining their ranks, the trio is forced to adapt quickly to the unknown challenges that lie ahead. Together, they face the perils of an unexplored planet, braving untamed lands teeming with mysterious creatures, hidden traps, and powerful entities guarding ancient secrets.

This frontier is unlike any challenge they’ve faced before. As they work to uncover resources and hidden relics, they encounter threats that push their individual talents and teamwork to the brink. Each trial tests not only their abilities but also their bond as a team, as they must rely on each other more than ever to survive.

Their journey is about more than personal ascension; it’s a battle to understand the frontier’s mysteries and protect each other from dangers both known and unknown. As they delve deeper, Matt wrestles with a growing responsibility not only to his friends but to the higher purpose driving him forward. But the question remains: do they have the strength, unity, and resilience needed to make it through, or will the frontier prove to be their undoing?

In The Path of Ascension 3 by C. Mantis, Matt, Liz, and Aster are thrust into a brewing conflict between two rival kingdoms, each vying for the Empire’s favor and the chance to join its ranks. Fresh off a chaotic encounter with rogue golems and a flying rift, the trio’s journey takes an unexpected turn as they’re pulled into a high-stakes war that could shift the balance of power in the Empire.

For the first time, the Path of Ascension opens up to the possibility of large-scale conflict, and the rewards for joining a side are greater than ever—experience, power, glory, and treasure. The kingdoms offer a tempting chance to level up and gather resources, but choosing sides isn’t easy. Each faction has its strengths and secrets, and picking the wrong ally could spell disaster, both for the kingdom and for their own ascension.

As Matt, Liz, and Aster navigate the shifting alliances, battlefield tactics, and hidden motives of each faction, they face the reality that this war could have lasting impacts on their path. It’s not just about survival; their every move will be scrutinized by powerful eyes, and each victory or defeat could change how they’re viewed in the Empire.