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

Helpful Score: 1

In this book we have plenty of squaring off between our Two Rivers heroes and the Forsaken. I wont tell you who comes out on top, but it wasnt a sure thing either way. Nynaeve has some fears she has to face. Meanwhile, Perrin struggles against his blossoming wolfish nature; the Whitecloaks are on the hunt and Perrin is in there sights.

I liked a lot of things about this book, especially Perrins inner struggle (though for a teensy bit there I felt it went on for too long). I think Perrin sees things in black and white sometimes; once he goes down a road, there is no turning back. But there is, or at least sideways. Once you pick up an axe to see to some business, doesnt mean that you cant put it down again. Through Perrins ordeal, we learn a little bit about what the Two Rivers folks are made of and also the guiding principles of the Whitecloaks.

Min has more visions, and this time they concern the White Tower. I wont spoil anything for you, but it gets real and some of my favorite characters have to make some tough choices. Meanwhile, in other parts of the land, we see Rand becoming a leader not just of men but of nations. Its a big step for him and he does OK, and doesnt get his head handed to him.

Theres plenty of Aiel time, and specifically time in the Aiel Waste. We really get to experience their culture, and for some, it is quite a shock. Of course, there are many funny scenes related to the culture shock. I was glad to see that Robert Jordan fleshed out this people.

Overall, the pacing was great, the plot moved forward, and my favorite characters got plenty of page time. I wanted the bad guys destroyed and I cheered the good guys towards victory. While there was some of that teen angst flirtatious/hate-you behavior that permeates the series, I was able to tune out during those parts and enjoy the rest.

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