A Warrior's Path

The Castes and the OutCastes Book 1

By: Davis Ashura

Narrated by: Nick Podehl

Winner 2015 Beverly Hills Book Awards for Fantasy! Bronze Medal for General Fantasy in the 2015 Reader's Favorite Awards! Finalist 2015 International Book Awards for Fantasy! Finalist 2015 Indie Excellence Book Awards for Fantasy!

Sweeping from the majestic city of Ashoka to the perilous Wildness beyond her borders, enter a world where Caste determines mystical Talents, the purity of Jivatma expresses worth, and dharma may be based on a lie.

Rukh Shektan has always understood duty. As a member of Caste Kumma, the warrior Caste, nothing else is acceptable. He is expected to take part in the deadly Trials, to journey the Wildness and protect the caravans linking Humanity's far-flung cities. Though the mission is dangerous, Rukh's hope and optimism are undaunted. Karma, however, is a fickle fiend. His caravan is destroyed by the monstrous Chimeras; twisted servants of their fearful goddess, Suwraith. While Rukh survives the attack, events force him along an uncertain path. Morality becomes a morass - especially when he encounters a mysterious warrior, Jessira Grey, a woman whose existence ought to be impossible. The holy texts warn against her kind: ghrinas, children of two Castes, abominations. They are to be executed whenever discovered, but for the first time in his life, Rukh defies duty. Jessira may be the key to his city's survival.

Meanwhile, a secret society seeks Ashoka's demise; foul murders cloak a deadlier purpose; and behind it all looms Suwraith. But it is the Baels, the leaders of Her Chimeras, who may hide the greatest deception of all.

Book 2, A Warrior's Knowledge, is also available.

©2013 Davis Ashura (P)2015 Davis Ashura

Critic reviews

"The characters, dialogue and action are mature enough to satisfy readers at the older end of the YA range, and the author weaves them all into an attention-sustaining tale...the milieu is markedly original...first rate world-building". ( Kirkus Reviews)

Great book

I am a person that loves a book with consistency and this hits it on the spot. The time line, era, and the way the author explains is perfect.

Excellent story

Excellent book can't wait for next in the series found it to be extremely interesting.

Pleasant Surprise

Any additional comments?
I was not expecting much and hurriedly bought this book on a whim. I am thrilled I did so. It's one of the better books I have listened to this year.

I saw this review from a few years ago and feel compelled to add I did not like book 2 and 3 of this series

Ended too soon

The only negative I have to offer is, don't start a story with a war already in progress, it leaves the reader without a focus point to orientate the story. That being said your character development was wonderful, diverse and enchanting. I personally can't wait for the next book. The story line is unique in fiction and all engaging when I realized what kid if characters u would get to spend my time with. The test for me is always when i find myself listening while doing dishes or laundry when I should be listening to my son prattle on. I hope you don't take too long writing the next book.
-RR

Damn good book

Book was a struggle to start, but stuck with it and loved it! Also the authors not made me chuckle! Hence why I'm here writting this review (;