Picture a storyteller who weaves epic tales where cultivation meets cutting-edge tech—meet C. Mantis! This enigmatic author has taken the literary world by storm with their Path of Ascension series, a dazzling blend of LitRPG and Xianxia that’s hooked readers worldwide. With a knack for crafting rational protagonists and intricate worlds, Mantis delivers stories that feel both thrillingly fresh and deeply immersive.
While C. Mantis keeps a low profile, their work speaks volumes, blending the stat-driven excitement of LitRPG with the spiritual depth of Xianxia. Let’s dive into the life, works, and impact of this genre-bending genius!
The Making of C. Mantis
Little is known about C. Mantis’s personal life, adding a layer of mystique to their storytelling. Operating under a pseudonym, Mantis emerged on the writing scene through platforms like Royal Road, where their serialized Path of Ascension garnered millions of views. Their journey likely began with a love for fantasy and gaming, influences that shine through in their logical magic systems and strategic combat scenes. Inspired by works like Will Wight’s Cradle, Mantis carved a niche by fusing Eastern cultivation tropes with Western sci-fi flair.
This self-published author’s rise reflects the digital age’s power, where dedicated writers can connect directly with fans. Mantis’s commitment to consistent releases—churning out thousands of words weekly on Patreon—shows a work ethic as disciplined as their protagonists.
C. Mantis’s Unforgettable Stories
At the heart of C. Mantis’s bibliography is the Path of Ascension series, a sprawling saga that follows Matt, an orphaned young man navigating a monster-filled world. The first book, released in 2022, introduces Matt’s quest to conquer rifts and ascend through tiers of power. With nine books and counting, the series blends LitRPG’s crunchy mechanics—like mana pools and skill upgrades—with Xianxia’s soulful cultivation, creating a unique narrative engine.
Book two deepens the world-building, introducing allies like Liz, a fiery phoenix descendant, and Aster, a frost fox companion. Later entries, like book seven, explore the grueling Minkalla trials, though some fans note pacing hiccups due to experimental side stories. Mantis’s style stands out for its rational protagonists who think before they fight, avoiding the genre’s clichés of overpowered heroes or cartoonish villains. Their magic systems are meticulously consistent, earning praise for grounding fantastical battles in logic.
The series’ blend of genres—sci-fi, fantasy, and martial arts—creates a vibrant universe where technology handles stat analysis, yet spiritual growth drives the narrative. Themes of perseverance, teamwork, and vengeance resonate, making characters like Matt relatable despite their epic journeys.
Why C. Mantis Matters
C. Mantis has redefined progression fantasy by bridging LitRPG and Xianxia, appealing to fans of both genres. Their work has sparked vibrant discussions on platforms like Reddit and Royal Road, with readers lauding the series’ depth and character growth. By avoiding tired tropes—like murder-happy protagonists or shallow world-building—Mantis offers a refreshing take on power fantasies, emphasizing strategy and realism.
Their impact extends to the indie publishing world, where they’ve shown how serialized storytelling can rival traditional publishing. With millions of views and a growing audiobook presence, Mantis has built a loyal fanbase, proving that innovative storytelling can thrive outside mainstream channels. As the series approaches its ninth book in 2025, Mantis’s legacy as a trailblazer in hybrid genres continues to grow.
Ready to embark on an epic adventure? Snag The Path of Ascension and dive into C. Mantis’s thrilling blend of LitRPG and Xianxia today!