I tried the first book of the other series and I did not feel anything close to a connection with the writers work here. Maybe that other series gets better. I’m sure it does. I’d wager that was his earlier work cause this book and series is a damn masterpiece. It’s completely different then first defire but they do share the basic elements and aspects. With levels, skill concepts, cultivation. Sometimes different wording. Anyways as I said same elements which I love having all when done well but this story was very original in the execution as well as blurring the line on who is the protagonist and how someone can become a monster and a hero while only caring about staying true to one’s self and where you stand by your words with incredible integrity and conviction. This book was so exciting. Very sad too and that goes far all of the series so far