Are you dreaming of escaping to the lands of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time?
The Wheel of Time series is one of the most beloved fantasy book series ever written. With its compelling characters and expertly crafted storylines, it's no wonder why readers around the world are always looking for the best books in the series to get lost in. Whether you're a seasoned fan or just starting out, these are some of the best Wheel of Time books that you need to read now.
There's no need to be intimidated by this beloved story – get ready to join Rand al'Thor and his friends on their legendary journey! I've created a definitive ranking of the best Wheel of Time books. Read my breakdown and find out which one comes in at #1!
Keep reading to be transported into The Wheel Of Time!
How I Choose
Ranking books in a series can be hard. You want to make sure you're being fair and taking all the factors into account.
There are a lot of things to consider when ranking books in a series - the overall story, the characters, the writing style, and more. It's important to be unbiased when making these decisions.
After reading countless reviews and carefully considering a variety of important factors, I have chosen the best books in the series. My rankings are based on what I believe to be an accurate representation of how well each book stands up against the others.
Why do I love it?
One of the things I love most about 'A Memory of Light is its thoughtful exploration of morality and identity. It features complex characters who each have unique backstories, making them realistic and believable to readers. Additionally, the world portrayed in the book is expansive and detailed, with intricate magical systems such as a ‘True Power’ that can be wielded only by select individuals. Furthermore, the plot is masterfully crafted, with important events impacting others further down the line or happening at different points throughout the story. Overall, this book is both an exciting read full of thrilling adventures and also an insightful look into what it means to do good in a world full of darkness.
What you should know
A Memory of Light of Time is a thrilling conclusion to the series, depicting the epic finale in vivid detail. It follows the characters on their journey to fulfill the ancient prophecy and bring peace to the lands. Throughout their journey, they face numerous challenges that test their courage and resolve. By drawing upon the power of the ‘wheel’, they call upon strange forces to guide them on their difficult mission. In this book, readers will discover secrets revealed in earlier books, explore an intricate world filled with beings both good and evil, and dread what will become of them all as destiny's game draws ever closer to its conclusion.
Why do I Love It?
It is a book that takes readers on an epic journey as they follow the complex characters as they battle against the forces of darkness. The main character in the book, Rand al'Thor, is a compelling hero who struggles against his own inner demons while attempting to restore order to a chaotic world. The richness of the characters and their conflicts creates a sense of intrigue around every chapter and builds anticipation for what's coming next. Throughout the story, Jordan and Sanderson deliver twists and turns that keep readers on their toes as well as moments of joy, heartbreak, and triumph. In short, "The Gathering Storm" is an amazing read that will leave you wanting more.
What you should know
The novel follows the characters Rand al'Thor, Matrim Cauthon, Perrin Aybara, Egwene al'Vere, Nynaeve al'Meara, Elayne Trakand, and Aviendha as they face off against ever-growing forces of darkness threatening to engulf and destroy the world of dreams. The characters must battle threats from both within their own societies and from without as they attempt to save humanity from certain doom. As with all books in this sprawling saga, readers can expect a captivating story full of political intrigue and thrilling adventure set in an expansive fantasy world populated by fascinating characters.
Why do I love it?
I love The Eye of the World because it is filled with mysterious magic, richly developed characters, and an epic story that sponsors multiple countries and cultures. It follows the journey of Rand al'Thor, an unlikely hero thrust into a world full of danger, as he discovers his rightful place among the Aes Sedai—magic users responsible for maintaining the balance in a battle between good and evil. Along his travels, Rand faces incredible challenges as he strives to fulfill a prophecy that could determine the fate of all humankind. For me, The Eye of the World perfectly captures the grandeur of fantasy literature – a timeless classic that will remain beloved for generations to come.
What you should know
The Eye of the World is set in a sprawling fantasy world and tells the story of Rand al'Thor, an untrained shepherd from the Two Rivers region. He discovers that he is the Dragon Reborn, destined to wield immense power in a struggle against the darkness that threatens to drown the entire world. With the help of his friends Mat Cauthon, Perrin Aybara, and Egwene al’Veray, Rand embarks on an epic quest that takes him across vast landscapes, encountering powerful beings and mysterious magic along the way. Rand must find a way to use his newfound power for good—even as those around him doubt that such a young man can save them all from impending chaos. Filled with brave heroes and treacherous villains, action-packed battles, and mind-bending puzzles, The Eye of the World is an enthralling read brimming with excitement and suspense.
Why do I Love it?
The Great Hunt continues the story of Rand al'Thor, the Dragon Reborn, as he embarks on a perilous journey north to retrieve a powerful object known as the Horn of Valere. Along his journey, Rand must confront powerful enemies and deadly creatures while also struggling against his own inner demons. At the same time, he fights to prove himself worthy of leading an ancient quest that will determine the fate of multiple nations. This gripping book is full of surprises—from dark secrets uncovered in the White Tower to epic battles between armies of darkness and light. With its charming characters and unpredictable ending, The Great Hunt is sure to captivate readers for many more generations to come.
What you should know
The Great Hunt brings readers into a complex universe filled with action, magic, and danger. Rand al'Thor, the Dragon Reborn, continues his epic quest to retrieve the magical object known as the Horn of Valere. Along his journey, he faces off against powerful foes such as Forsaken and treacherous creatures known as Trollocs. Rand must also contend with his own inner demons as well as the distrustful characters that follow him throughout his adventure. At the same time, he is constantly struggling to prove himself worthy to lead this legendary quest and save multiple nations from impending doom. With its thrilling battles and unexpected plot twists, The Great Hunt is sure to captivate readers with its unique story and compelling characters.
Why do I Love It?
The Dragon Reborn is an extraordinary book that kept me glued to its pages. I particularly enjoyed the intricate world-building and the power that it gave Robert Jordan to explore deep themes such as fate, free will, morality, friendship, and love. It was a pleasure to watch characters like Rand al'Thor grow and develop over the course of the novel, becoming heroes in their own right along the way. I also admired Robert Jordan's thoughtful writing style that effortlessly transitions between comedic and serious moments, perfectly capturing the tone of each scene. All these elements make for an unforgettable reading experience that has stayed with me for years after finishing it.
What you should know
In this book, Rand learns more about his destined role as the Dragon Reborn and embarks on a perilous journey to find Callandor, an ancient magical weapon that can defeat the Dark One. Along his journey, he meets new allies such as Moiraine Damodred and Perrin Aybara while attempting to evade agents of the Shadow. This book offers exciting plot twists and breathtaking scenes in a magical world full of powerful characters. If you’re looking for an epic fantasy series with intense action and unpredictable plot development, "The Dragon Reborn" is definitely worth checking out.
Why do I Love It?
I absolutely love the book "The Shadow Rising". In this book, protagonist Rand al'Thor embarks on a quest for heritage and destiny, determined to find his Aes Sedai mentor Moiraine. Along the way, he must battle powerful forces from both in and outside the kingdom, discovering some of the darkest secrets of the world along with newfound strength. I think what makes this book so unique is its intricate plotlines which twist and turn in unexpected ways, as well as Jordan's masterful ability to create complex characters who you simultaneously love and hate. The Shadow Rising also features an amazing array of magical creatures that add richness to the story while remaining believable. All in all, it's an epic tale that will keep you captivated until the very last page!
What you should know
"The Shadow Rising" takes readers deeper into the world of Rand al'Thor, the ta'veren destined to save the world from The Dark One. In this book, Rand engages in a new battle as he attempts to unify all the nations against their common enemy — the mysterious Shadowspawn. Along his journey, he embarks on a quest to find and recover three powerful objects so that he can protect those who follow him. He also reunites with Egwene al’Vere in Tar Valon and continues his struggle against malevolent forces from within. This gripping installment features complex themes such as political intrigue and questions about fate and destiny. If you’re looking for an exciting read featuring intense action sequences and engaging characters, then "The Shadow Rising" is certainly worth checking out.
Why do I Love it?
I love the book "The Fires of Heaven" because it is filled with gripping action and stunning revelations. The characters are well-developed and I found myself engrossed in their journey and struggles. One particular scene that stands out to me from the book is when Rand al'Thor battles Ba'alzamon, who is revealed to be Ishamael, a former teacher of Rand's. This pivotal event serves as a major turning point for the series and conveys powerful themes about good versus evil. The stakes were high, making this one of the most thrilling moments in the entire series.
What you should know
Before reading "The Fires of Heaven", it's important to know a few key things. First, the book is the fifth novel in Robert Jordan's fantasy series, so it's best enjoyed after reading the previous installments. Second, the book follows an ensemble cast of characters as they fight to protect an ancient system known as The Wheel of Time from forces that wish to subjugate and control it. Third, the book includes several major plot twists, including the death of one character and the revelation that another is part of a much larger force at work in this world. Finally, what makes this particular installment so captivating is its deep exploration into themes such as fate versus free will and good versus evil.
Why do I Love it?
I love "Lord of Chaos" for many reasons. One aspect that stands out to me is its complex and suspenseful plot, which seamlessly weaves the various threads of the story. This installment introduces some compelling new characters, including a mysterious Aes Sedai named Elaida who is determined to bring down Rand al’Thor. The action takes place in several countries—from Shienar to Cairhien—and involves a myriad of battles in both physical and mental planes. The prose is vivid and fast-paced yet still allows time for reflection on the characters' emotional journeys as they struggle with their loyalties and moral dilemma. It's no wonder why these books are so beloved by fans; this installment packs an intense amount of drama and excitement into its pages.
What you should know
The sixth installment "Lord of Chaos" is a thrilling journey into the depths of darkness and despair. A bloody civil war has begun within the walls of Tar Valon, as two sides battle for the fate of the world. The Chosen One, Rand al’Thor, must once again struggle to save himself and all humanity from a powerful evil force known as The Dark One. In this book, readers will witness a multitude of intense battles between good and evil, with exciting characters and plots that will surely entertain them until the very end. Along with an unforgettable cast that includes Egwene al'Vere and Perrin Aybara, Lord of Chaos contains a deeper exploration into the magical forces at work in The Wheel Of Time universe. As Rand struggles against his destiny in this book, readers will eagerly anticipating what awaits him in future installments.
Why do I Love It?
Reading "Winter's Heart" has been an extraordinary experience. Not only is the plot enthralling, but the character development and detailed descriptions make it easy to become immersed in the world of Rand Al'Thor and his quest to unravel the secrets of the Age of Legends. The intricacies of ta'veren, which allows certain individuals to interact with the Pattern in unique ways, and characters such as Cadsuane Melaidhrin who can turn seemingly mundane situations into thrilling adventures are some of my favorite aspects. The book also dives deep into themes relevant to today's society such as religious symbolism, power struggles between different nations, and a wide range of moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Ultimately, Winter's Heart provides a captivating journey full of suspenseful moments and thought-provoking reflections that will leave readers eagerly awaiting what comes next.
What you should know
Winter's Heart is a unique and enthralling story that will take readers on an unforgettable journey. This ninth installment picks up directly from the events of the previous book, A Crown of Swords. In this novel, Rand Al'Thor continues his fight for freedom against the Dark One and his minions. Meanwhile, Perrin Aybara attempts to free Faile Bashere from her captors and Elayne Trakand struggles for justice against the Whitecloaks in Andor. As Rand's strength and resolve grow, so does the inevitability that he will have to confront his own inner conflicts in order to save humanity from destruction. With its complex characters, intricate plotlines, and original themes, Winter's Heart promises to be an engaging read full of mystery and suspense.
Origins of The Wheel of Time: The Legends and Mythologies that Inspired Robert Jordan
Why do I Love It?
I have always admired the depth of detail in Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Tims series. I have discovered not only new pieces of knowledge about the world but also a deeper appreciation for the richness that Jordan was able to draw from the stories and myths he encountered.
Livingston has provided a detailed overview of some of the legends that inspired Jordan’s writing, such as Norse mythology and classical Greek literature. He has explored aspects of each society as they would have been told then, rather than simply recycling them through modern eyes. This results in an incredibly textured narrative where every element is rooted in these ancient sources and coincides perfectly with Jordan’s work.
In addition to this contextual framework, Livingston also utilizes recently discovered materials from archaeological sites to support his interpretations. Through this approach, Livingston provides evidence for the intricate ways in which these stories were integrated into Jordan's writings; readers can gain an even greater understanding of the care and craftsmanship that went into making these worlds so richly realized.
What you should know
The book "Origins of The Wheel of Time" by Michael Livingston illuminate the in-depth research and exploration conducted by Robert Jordan to craft his epic work, the Wheel of Time. Through this work, readers can discover the classical legends and mythologies that inspired Jordan's beloved characters and universe. With fresh interpretations of myths from around the world, this book gives readers an exciting insight into how culture and stories have been crafted through time. Additionally, it reveals fascinating details about the lifetimes of each character, their motivations, beliefs, and struggles that ultimately make up the intricate tapestry that is the Wheel of Time.
The right book for you!
As anyone who's read 'The Wheel of Time series can attest, Robert Jordan created an epic fantasy world with some of the most memorable moments and characters. From Mat's character development in 'The Great Hunt' to the stunning conclusion in 'A Memory Of Light', Jordan gave us a world we could believe in and characters who felt real. No other fantasy series has come close to capturing the complexity, intrigue, and sheer genius of 'The Wheel of Time'. Whether it was Perrin forging new alliances in 'The Shadow Rising', Rand fighting to keep control in 'The Dragon Reborn', or all the characters involved in The Gathering Storm, it was clear that Jordan had created a timeless masterpiece, one which stands as an iconic accomplishment even next to Harry Potter or Lord of The Rings.
To conclude, the best wheel of time book depends on personal preference for the best moments. Everyone has various criteria that they use when selecting a favorite novel and it is important to take all these factors into consideration. Perhaps one reader enjoys political intrigue while another loves complex character arcs. Whatever draws you to a particular novel, The Wheel of Time series is certain to have what you’re looking for. Each installment offers something unique: unforgettable storylines, a new spring of lovable characters, exciting action sequences, an epic conclusion, and captivating magical settings. With such tantalizing elements, this is a must-read series for fantasy fans! Invest some time in discovering why The Wheel of Time books is beloved by readers all over the world—you won’t regret it!