Susan V. (nrlymrtl) reviewed on 1/17/2014 + 297 more book reviews

In this installment, Rand is still trying to sway the Aiel to unite under him, hence the trip to their holy city of Rhuidean. Mat is with him, and rash Mat makes some questionable choices (much to my amusement). But out of this we have Rand showing leadership skills, and Mat just beginning to realize his potential.

Additionally, we have Elayne and Nynaeve traveling around. One of them gets a Warder! But I wont spoil it and say who. There is also a circus involved.

Alas, this book has no Perrin and no Loial, so that makes me a little sad. And there are some lengthy scenes that focus on clothing. Sigh..But Nynaeve turns one of those scenes around with her defiant chat with the person who founded the fanatical religious order that flies a flag in Rands name (without his consent).

If youve been following the series, then you know Lanfear. Lanfear makes some crucial decisions, and they have lasting, detrimental affects. I wont spoil it, but one of the best scenes of the series so far lies at Lanfears feet.

Near the end, there is a little plot twist that didnt sit well with me. Its probably a minor thing in the bigger scheme of things, but it still rubbed me the wrong way. Theres a bit of a battle at the end and we are lead to believe 2-3 characters die, but then they dont. I definitely become more invested in a series when characters can be, will be hurt, even killed. Not nearly hurt or nearly killed. Not reversed by some previously unknown mystical mechanics. Anyway, just my 2 cents on that one.

Overall, a fun installment in the series even if I did miss Perrin, wondering how things turned out in Emonds Field.

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