Step into the enchanting world of the Third Soul series, where magic crackles, swords clash, and a young mage’s destiny unfolds in a whirlwind of adventure! Written by Jonathan Moeller, this contemporary fantasy saga blends our world with a realm of sorcery, demons, and high-stakes intrigue. Centered on Rachaelis Morulan, an Initiate of the secretive Conclave, the series delivers heart-pounding action and a refreshing focus on teamwork that sets it apart in the fantasy genre.
With its fast-paced storytelling and richly drawn characters, Third Soul invites readers to explore a world where magic comes at a cost, and courage shapes the future. Whether you’re a fantasy veteran or new to the genre, this series promises a thrilling ride!
How Third Soul Began
Jonathan Moeller, a USA Today bestselling author, drew inspiration for the Third Soul series from his love of role-playing games and classic sword-and-sorcery tales. A self-described computer repairman with a flair for epic storytelling, Moeller began the series in 2011 with The Testing. His knack for weaving modern and fantastical worlds stems from his fascination with history and mythology, creating a unique narrative that feels both familiar and fresh. The series, spanning eight books, showcases Moeller’s ability to craft gripping plots and relatable characters.
The Heart of Third Soul
The Third Soul series kicks off with The Testing (2011), where Rachaelis faces the Conclave’s brutal trials to become an Adept. Failure means death—or worse, the loss of her soul. In The Assassins (2011), Rachaelis navigates a web of deadly intrigue as shadowy foes seek to capture her alive. The Blood Shaman (2011) ramps up the stakes as she hunts a dark priest intent on using her as a vessel for a demon. Finally, The Tomb of Baligant (2013) concludes the saga with Raelum, a paladin, battling to stop an ancient evil.
The series shines through its themes of teamwork, resilience, and moral complexity. Unlike typical fantasy tropes centered on a lone hero, Moeller emphasizes collaboration, with characters like Rachaelis, Corthain, and Raelum relying on each other’s strengths. The setting—a world where modern Earth meets a medieval realm of magic—creates a dynamic backdrop for exploring power, sacrifice, and redemption. Moeller’s brisk pacing and vivid action scenes keep readers glued to the page, while his flawed, relatable characters add depth.
Fans praise the series for its blend of sorcery and swordplay, often comparing it to classic fantasy like Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time. Yet, its shorter, novella-style books make it an accessible entry point for readers seeking a quick but immersive escape.
Why Third Soul Resonates
Though not as widely known as mainstream fantasy giants, the Third Soul series has carved a niche among fans of indie fantasy for its gripping storytelling and unique world-building. Its emphasis on teamwork resonates in an era where collaboration is celebrated, offering a refreshing counterpoint to solitary hero narratives. Moeller’s ability to balance action, character growth, and moral dilemmas has earned the series a loyal following, with readers praising its fast-paced, addictive quality.
The series’ legacy lies in its accessibility and Moeller’s prolific output, proving that indie authors can deliver high-quality fantasy. For those craving a compact yet epic adventure, Third Soul remains a hidden gem worth discovering.
- Publication Years: 2011–2013
- Number of Books: 8
- Genre: Contemporary Fantasy, Sword-and-Sorcery
Grab The Testing and dive into the Third Soul’s spellbinding world of magic and adventure! Whether you’re battling demons or cheering for Rachaelis, this series is your ticket to a thrilling fantasy escape.