Step into the thrilling world of Cradle, where an underdog’s quest for power unfolds in a vibrant, martial arts-inspired fantasy universe! Will Wight’s Cradle series is a progression fantasy epic that follows Wei Shi Lindon, a young man deemed 'Unsouled' and forbidden to practice his clan’s sacred arts. With its pulse-pounding action, intricate magic system, and themes of perseverance, Cradle hooks readers from the first page and never lets go.
Lindon’s journey from outcast to powerhouse is set in a world where sacred artists harness 'madra'—a soul-driven energy—to wield awe-inspiring abilities. Think Dragon Ball Z meets kung fu, wrapped in a richly crafted cosmos. Whether you’re a fantasy veteran or new to the genre, Cradle’s blend of heart, humor, and high stakes makes it a must-read.
How Cradle Began
Will Wight, a self-published author with a knack for fast-paced storytelling, launched Cradle in 2016 with Unsouled. Inspired by xianxia and wuxia—Chinese genres centered on martial arts and immortal cultivation—Wight crafted a Western take on progression fantasy. His goal? Create a series where characters constantly evolve, facing bigger challenges and unlocking wild new powers. Drawing from shonen manga like Naruto, Wight infused Cradle with dynamic battles and an underdog spirit, earning it a devoted fanbase.
The Heart of Cradle
The Cradle series spans twelve books, each building on Lindon’s quest to defy his fate. Unsouled introduces Lindon, shunned by his Sacred Valley clan for lacking magical aptitude, until a cosmic vision spurs him to seek power beyond his home. In Soulsmith, Lindon explores ancient ruins, mastering soulsmithing to forge weapons and face deadly foes. Blackflame sees him adopt a fiery, destructive path, while Waybound, the finale, delivers epic battles against godlike Dreadgods.
Cradle’s magic system is a standout, with sacred artists progressing through stages (Copper, Iron, Jade, Gold, and beyond) by absorbing vital aura and refining madra. Themes of hard work, found family, and defying odds shine through Lindon’s bond with allies like Yerin, a sword-wielding prodigy, and Eithan, a mischievous mentor. The Asian-inspired setting, vibrant action, and witty dialogue give Cradle a unique flavor, blending cosmic stakes with personal growth.
Unlike traditional epic fantasy, Cradle keeps the pace relentless, with characters rarely lingering in one place. Fans compare it to a shonen anime in prose, where every book ups the ante with new powers, from shadow blades to acid sprays. Wight’s ability to keep the story fresh across twelve books is a testament to his storytelling prowess.
Why Cradle Resonates
Cradle has redefined progression fantasy, earning a cult following and New York Times bestseller status for books like Waybound. Its blend of accessible prose, diverse characters, and a magic system that rewards creativity has inspired fan art, Reddit discussions, and reread marathons. Wight’s rapid release schedule—often a book every six months—keeps readers hooked, while narrator Travis Baldree’s audiobooks bring the world to life. Cradle’s legacy lies in proving self-published works can rival traditional fantasy giants.
- First Book Published: 2016 (Unsouled)
- Total Books: 12
- Awards: Stabby Awards for Ghostwater (2018) and Underlord (2019)
- Author: Will Wight
Grab Unsouled and dive into Cradle’s action-packed world of sacred arts and epic battles! Whether you’re chasing Lindon’s rise or craving a fresh fantasy adventure, this series will leave you hungry for more.