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The Wheel of Time #11
Knife of Dreams
The dead are walking, men die impossible deaths, and it seems as though reality itself has become unstable: All are signs of the imminence of Tarmon Gai'don, the Last Battle, when Rand al'Thor, the Dragon Reborn, must confront the Dark One as humanity's only hope. But Rand dares not fight until he possesses all the surviving seals on the Dark One's prison and has dealt with the Seanchan, who threaten to overrun all nations this side of the Aryth Ocean and increasingly seem too entrenched to be fought off. But his attempt to make a truce with the Seanchan is shadowed by treachery that may cost him everything. Whatever the price, though, he must have that truce. And he faces other dangers.
The winds of time have become a storm, and things that everyone believes are fixed in place forever are changing before their eyes. Even the White Tower itself is no longer a place of safety. Now Rand, Perrin and Mat, Egwene and Elayne, Nynaeve and Lan, and even Loial, must ride those storm winds, or the Dark One will triumph.
The winds of time have become a storm, and things that everyone believes are fixed in place forever are changing before their eyes. Even the White Tower itself is no longer a place of safety. Now Rand, Perrin and Mat, Egwene and Elayne, Nynaeve and Lan, and even Loial, must ride those storm winds, or the Dark One will triumph.
860 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 3, 2005
About the author
Robert Jordan
638 books16.1k followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Robert Jordan was the pen name of James Oliver Rigney, Jr., under which he was best known as the author of the bestselling The Wheel of Time fantasy series. He also wrote under the names Reagan O'Neal and Jackson O'Reilly.
Jordan was born in Charleston, South Carolina. He served two tours in Vietnam (from 1968 to 1970) with the United States Army as a helicopter gunner. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with bronze oak leaf cluster, the Bronze Star with "V" and bronze oak leaf cluster, and two Vietnamese Gallantry Crosses with palm. After returning from Vietnam he attended The Citadel where he received an undergraduate degree in physics. After graduating he was employed by the United States Navy as a nuclear engineer. He began writing in 1977. He was a history buff and enjoyed hunting, fishing, sailing, poker, chess, pool, and pipe collecting.
He described himself as a "High Church" Episcopalian and received communion more than once a week. He lived with his wife Harriet McDougal, who works as a book editor (currently with Tor Books; she was also Jordan's editor) in a house built in 1797.
Responding to queries on the similarity of some of the concepts in his Wheel of Time books with Freemasonry concepts, Jordan admitted that he was a Freemason. However, "like his father and grandfather," he preferred not to advertise, possibly because of the negative propaganda against Freemasonry. In his own words, "no man in this country should feel in danger because of his beliefs."
On March 23, 2006, Jordan disclosed in a statement that he had been diagnosed with cardiac amyloidosis, and that with treatment, his median life expectancy was four years, though he said he intended to beat the statistics. He later posted on his Dragonmount blog to encourage his fans not to worry about him and that he intended to have a long and fully creative life.
He began chemotherapy treatment at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, in early April 2006. Jordan was enrolled in a study using the drug Revlimid just approved for multiple myeloma but not yet tested on primary amyloidosis.
Jordan died at approximately 2:45 p.m. EDT on September 16, 2007, and a funeral service was held for him on Wednesday, September 19, 2007. Jordan was cremated and his ashes buried in the churchyard of St. James Church in Goose Creek, outside Charleston.
Robert Jordan was the pen name of James Oliver Rigney, Jr., under which he was best known as the author of the bestselling The Wheel of Time fantasy series. He also wrote under the names Reagan O'Neal and Jackson O'Reilly.
Jordan was born in Charleston, South Carolina. He served two tours in Vietnam (from 1968 to 1970) with the United States Army as a helicopter gunner. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with bronze oak leaf cluster, the Bronze Star with "V" and bronze oak leaf cluster, and two Vietnamese Gallantry Crosses with palm. After returning from Vietnam he attended The Citadel where he received an undergraduate degree in physics. After graduating he was employed by the United States Navy as a nuclear engineer. He began writing in 1977. He was a history buff and enjoyed hunting, fishing, sailing, poker, chess, pool, and pipe collecting.
He described himself as a "High Church" Episcopalian and received communion more than once a week. He lived with his wife Harriet McDougal, who works as a book editor (currently with Tor Books; she was also Jordan's editor) in a house built in 1797.
Responding to queries on the similarity of some of the concepts in his Wheel of Time books with Freemasonry concepts, Jordan admitted that he was a Freemason. However, "like his father and grandfather," he preferred not to advertise, possibly because of the negative propaganda against Freemasonry. In his own words, "no man in this country should feel in danger because of his beliefs."
On March 23, 2006, Jordan disclosed in a statement that he had been diagnosed with cardiac amyloidosis, and that with treatment, his median life expectancy was four years, though he said he intended to beat the statistics. He later posted on his Dragonmount blog to encourage his fans not to worry about him and that he intended to have a long and fully creative life.
He began chemotherapy treatment at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, in early April 2006. Jordan was enrolled in a study using the drug Revlimid just approved for multiple myeloma but not yet tested on primary amyloidosis.
Jordan died at approximately 2:45 p.m. EDT on September 16, 2007, and a funeral service was held for him on Wednesday, September 19, 2007. Jordan was cremated and his ashes buried in the churchyard of St. James Church in Goose Creek, outside Charleston.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,943 reviews
July 25, 2022
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The last book by Robert Jordan is a much needed return to greatness.
Knife of Dreams is an absolutely wonderful final book by Robert Jordan, after a series of some comparatively bland entries into this series. And while it is widely accepted in the Wheel of Time community that this book is much better than the last few, I was not quite prepared for how great this book truly was until I read it.
This book concluded so many plot threads that have been sitting out there for a while, and the delayed gratification that came from finally seeing these all come together was amazing. I can't go into detail about what these conclusions were, or even what they pertained to as I do not want to spoil anything for future readers, but rest assured they are extremely satisfying.
For any readers who are not quite sure if they want to dive through the "slog" of a few books that are a noticeable downgrade from the rest of the books, rest assured that the setup is worth it - and now that we live in a time where all these books are already released and you don't have to wait for the next book to come out, it's well worth the wait.
Ultimately finishing this book was rather bittersweet. On one hand, this book is a return to greatness for this series that has been suffering from a lack of pace in the last few books - and on the other hand, it's quite sad to realize that someone who I have now finished the last of the books from someone that I now recognize as one of my favorite authors. And while I have every single bit of faith that Brandon Sanderson knocks the final few books out of the park, it is disappointing nonetheless that it has to be finished by a different author.
Bravo Robert Jordan, and thank you for all the wonderful memories.
The last book by Robert Jordan is a much needed return to greatness.
Knife of Dreams is an absolutely wonderful final book by Robert Jordan, after a series of some comparatively bland entries into this series. And while it is widely accepted in the Wheel of Time community that this book is much better than the last few, I was not quite prepared for how great this book truly was until I read it.
This book concluded so many plot threads that have been sitting out there for a while, and the delayed gratification that came from finally seeing these all come together was amazing. I can't go into detail about what these conclusions were, or even what they pertained to as I do not want to spoil anything for future readers, but rest assured they are extremely satisfying.
For any readers who are not quite sure if they want to dive through the "slog" of a few books that are a noticeable downgrade from the rest of the books, rest assured that the setup is worth it - and now that we live in a time where all these books are already released and you don't have to wait for the next book to come out, it's well worth the wait.
Ultimately finishing this book was rather bittersweet. On one hand, this book is a return to greatness for this series that has been suffering from a lack of pace in the last few books - and on the other hand, it's quite sad to realize that someone who I have now finished the last of the books from someone that I now recognize as one of my favorite authors. And while I have every single bit of faith that Brandon Sanderson knocks the final few books out of the park, it is disappointing nonetheless that it has to be finished by a different author.
Bravo Robert Jordan, and thank you for all the wonderful memories.
April 27, 2018
Keep loving them
Mel 🖤🐾🐺
Mel 🖤🐾🐺
January 22, 2019
Now that the last minute rush to complete year long challenges are over, I am finally writing pending reviews albeit slowly.
Mr. Jordan finally got his act together and started tying the loose ends which resulted in some great events that really propelled the story in the right direction.
Perrin finally defeated Shaido to rescue Faile, I felt so relieved because reading his monologues where he eats himself with worrying about Faile were huge torture. Faile this, Faile that, I will do this or that once I rescue her. I was glad that it was over and he will finally move forward to help Rand.
Matrim and Elyane got a lot of pages in this book but most of the time they bored me to death. It's good that the final chapters of them were full of great events. They both achieved significant success in those penultimate chapters.
Rand's PoVs are always a treat to read. Unlike Perrin and Matt his PoVs are not full of self-pity and longing for his lover (and he has three women whom he loves!) or cards, dices, and Tuon. He is focused on how to defeat the Dark One and that's what I love about him. He is trying and learning from every defeat.
But the star of the show was Egwene. The way things ended for her in Crossroads of Twilight, I was not expecting what she did in this book. The most tortures of treatment did not deflect her from her path, the severe punishments only made her stronger. It was good to see her finally standing up for a noble cause instead of thinking about boxing someone's ears who misbehaved with her. I am seeing now why everyone mention her when they talk about the good things about WoT.
This was a good place to start preparing the reader for the grand things that awaits in the next three books.
Mr. Jordan finally got his act together and started tying the loose ends which resulted in some great events that really propelled the story in the right direction.
Perrin finally defeated Shaido to rescue Faile, I felt so relieved because reading his monologues where he eats himself with worrying about Faile were huge torture. Faile this, Faile that, I will do this or that once I rescue her. I was glad that it was over and he will finally move forward to help Rand.
Matrim and Elyane got a lot of pages in this book but most of the time they bored me to death. It's good that the final chapters of them were full of great events. They both achieved significant success in those penultimate chapters.
Rand's PoVs are always a treat to read. Unlike Perrin and Matt his PoVs are not full of self-pity and longing for his lover (and he has three women whom he loves!) or cards, dices, and Tuon. He is focused on how to defeat the Dark One and that's what I love about him. He is trying and learning from every defeat.
But the star of the show was Egwene. The way things ended for her in Crossroads of Twilight, I was not expecting what she did in this book. The most tortures of treatment did not deflect her from her path, the severe punishments only made her stronger. It was good to see her finally standing up for a noble cause instead of thinking about boxing someone's ears who misbehaved with her. I am seeing now why everyone mention her when they talk about the good things about WoT.
This was a good place to start preparing the reader for the grand things that awaits in the next three books.
![Profile Image for Anna [Bran. San. Stan].](https://cdn.statically.io/img/i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1593184464i/98245866._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
May 29, 2024
This was flaming brilliant! I started reading WoT because, as a Bran San Stan, I want to read ALL of his work. Now that I have come this far, I can honestly say I have loved and enjoyed and treasured these eleven books purely based on RJ’s storytelling genius – and I seem to be one of the few people who have not experienced “the slog.” I am now a WoT fan and not just a Sanderfan. Which is why I did a thing and got these gorgeous WoT book jackets as a birthday gift to myself. My fantasy shelf is really coming along! Picture below!
Spoilers below!
____________________
The plot itself is extremely rewarding – it felt like payoff galore after a few books which presented mostly progress toward that payoff. Especially satisfying was the accursed Shaido being defeated in a clever plot of Perrin‘s. (Which made up for his annoying mantra of “only Faile matters.”) Not only was it cool to see forkroot used in that large scale to render the Wise Ones useless, but finally, freaking finally, to see Galina and Sevanna, both horrible in their own right, get their due. I will note, however, that I was outraged that after helping/saving Faile and company, Roland and the other two Mera‘din were killed for their efforts. I’m all for poetic justice, like Galina, Sevanna, even Suroth experience, but that ain‘t it.
Another gratifying experience was Egwene‘s imprisonment in the White Tower. Yes, you read that right. Normally I hate beloved characters’ misfortunes (especially capture and failure) but how Egwene manages to take advantage of the situation, basically turning her captivity into an infiltration while retaining her dignity, was priceless. And though her arc is not finished in this book, I have no doubt she will triumph in the end.
Now, Rand. I was speechless. As if he doesn’t have enough to contend with, those two unhealable wounds, Lews Therin in his head which is bound to make him mad even if saidin no longer will, that strange nausea when summoning saidin, and now Rand loses his hand? Even if it’s not his dominant hand, it was painful to read that, in the face of everything he endures, this doesn’t even register beyond "I guess I have to relearn the sword now, huh." I’m paraphrasing but still. I guess as a reader that reaction is preferable to Jamie Lannister’s so we don’t have to deal with him re-gaining his confidence, but then Rand has another weapon (saidin) and is healed immediately – thus the two fates are maybe too dissimilar in the end. Also, I always love competent Rand, not only master channeler but also swordmaster, but now it feels his Heronblade skills are back to, not exactly square one, but close.
As for Mat, I still love his narrative voice so much and since we’ve established I love competence, it’s no surprise he has become my favorite character. His campaigning against the Seanchan, after Tuon‘s abduction turns into a rescue mission, was so rewarding as we watch his military mind(s) at work. And speaking of rewarding: seeing both Tuon‘s and Mat‘s prophecy fulfilled with that hilarious marriage was up there with my favorite moments.
Elayne‘s arc, who finally (!) becomes queen of Andor, mostly made me think about all the casualties. It’s truly a mystery to me how regular people, even soldiers, sacrifice their lives in a war that is ultimately about who sits on the throne, which is probably not that impactful on most of their lives – as the Seanchan occupation has proven. Fighting evil (Forsaken, shadowspawn, Darkfriends) seems a worthier cause.
I’m sure I missed some other great moments and I could probably go on forever but I just want to sit here for a while, savoring this bittersweet moment, the ending that is not an ending, saying goodbye to Robert Jordan. I really wish he had had the chance to finish this seminal series himself.
Spoilers below!
____________________
The plot itself is extremely rewarding – it felt like payoff galore after a few books which presented mostly progress toward that payoff. Especially satisfying was the accursed Shaido being defeated in a clever plot of Perrin‘s. (Which made up for his annoying mantra of “only Faile matters.”) Not only was it cool to see forkroot used in that large scale to render the Wise Ones useless, but finally, freaking finally, to see Galina and Sevanna, both horrible in their own right, get their due. I will note, however, that I was outraged that after helping/saving Faile and company, Roland and the other two Mera‘din were killed for their efforts. I’m all for poetic justice, like Galina, Sevanna, even Suroth experience, but that ain‘t it.
Another gratifying experience was Egwene‘s imprisonment in the White Tower. Yes, you read that right. Normally I hate beloved characters’ misfortunes (especially capture and failure) but how Egwene manages to take advantage of the situation, basically turning her captivity into an infiltration while retaining her dignity, was priceless. And though her arc is not finished in this book, I have no doubt she will triumph in the end.
Now, Rand. I was speechless. As if he doesn’t have enough to contend with, those two unhealable wounds, Lews Therin in his head which is bound to make him mad even if saidin no longer will, that strange nausea when summoning saidin, and now Rand loses his hand? Even if it’s not his dominant hand, it was painful to read that, in the face of everything he endures, this doesn’t even register beyond "I guess I have to relearn the sword now, huh." I’m paraphrasing but still. I guess as a reader that reaction is preferable to Jamie Lannister’s so we don’t have to deal with him re-gaining his confidence, but then Rand has another weapon (saidin) and is healed immediately – thus the two fates are maybe too dissimilar in the end. Also, I always love competent Rand, not only master channeler but also swordmaster, but now it feels his Heronblade skills are back to, not exactly square one, but close.
As for Mat, I still love his narrative voice so much and since we’ve established I love competence, it’s no surprise he has become my favorite character. His campaigning against the Seanchan, after Tuon‘s abduction turns into a rescue mission, was so rewarding as we watch his military mind(s) at work. And speaking of rewarding: seeing both Tuon‘s and Mat‘s prophecy fulfilled with that hilarious marriage was up there with my favorite moments.
Elayne‘s arc, who finally (!) becomes queen of Andor, mostly made me think about all the casualties. It’s truly a mystery to me how regular people, even soldiers, sacrifice their lives in a war that is ultimately about who sits on the throne, which is probably not that impactful on most of their lives – as the Seanchan occupation has proven. Fighting evil (Forsaken, shadowspawn, Darkfriends) seems a worthier cause.
I’m sure I missed some other great moments and I could probably go on forever but I just want to sit here for a while, savoring this bittersweet moment, the ending that is not an ending, saying goodbye to Robert Jordan. I really wish he had had the chance to finish this seminal series himself.
December 4, 2016
FREAKING FINALLY ★★★★★ Stars
After 3 books that went basically nowhere with miniscule plot development FINALLY and I mean FINALLY the story took off and things HAPPENED
It’s like Jordan had a check list of things to tick off and he just went down the list….
✔ - Perrin looking for Faile and getting his woman back
✔ - Egwene actually doing something useful. Sure she had to get captured and put in the white tower to do it but finally her story arc is way more interesting.
✔ - Nynaeve and Lan finally getting a little relationship fleshing out and one of my favorite moments of the series. Way to go all Aes Sedea on your man Nynaeve. This is probably the only time I will approve of such a move.
✔ - Avienda cutting strings from Elayne. Maybe it will be her turn with Rand again soon.
✔ - Rand outing another of the Forsaken. The price might be a little heavy but he just keeps on swimming. Actually I love him and Min together, she seems to get him better than anyone else and I love how in her own way she is just as strong or actually stronger than him.
✔ - Mat and Tuon playing courting games that seem more like battle strategy I LOVE THEM SO MUCH TOGETHER
✔ - Thom finally telling us what is in that letter that Moraince left for him how many books ago. Well we get to read it AND I’m so excited about where that is going to lead our crew.
✔ - The Elayne the Daughter Heir finally finding her place. Whether it is on the Lion throne or not you will just have to read to see. Her arc is actually my least favorite maybe because so much time is spent on the pregnancy and sometimes she is so smart and THEN she does that very stupid thing towards the end that just leads me to believe she isn’t even close to ready to be a Queen.
✔ - Birgetta being awesome as always. Why would we need Galad or Gawyn again to protect Elayne??? I just don’t know. I’m pretty sure I know who Gaidal Cain is reincarnated as *crosses fingers* that is my favorite deviant in training
And Much Much more…. A few characters get the come-uppances that they deserve and it is so gratifying.
Was it worth going through three pretty slow books to get to some awesome? The jury is still out. For me yeah probably since Sanderson is finishing out this series and I read ~200 books a year so no biggy. But for someone else who doesn’t get to read so much and has to pick and choose probably not unless you are into extreme worldbuilding.
Very excited to start the into the end with my favorite Epic Fantasy Writer the fantastic Brandon Sanderson.
After 3 books that went basically nowhere with miniscule plot development FINALLY and I mean FINALLY the story took off and things HAPPENED
It’s like Jordan had a check list of things to tick off and he just went down the list….
✔ - Perrin looking for Faile and getting his woman back
✔ - Egwene actually doing something useful. Sure she had to get captured and put in the white tower to do it but finally her story arc is way more interesting.
✔ - Nynaeve and Lan finally getting a little relationship fleshing out and one of my favorite moments of the series. Way to go all Aes Sedea on your man Nynaeve. This is probably the only time I will approve of such a move.
✔ - Avienda cutting strings from Elayne. Maybe it will be her turn with Rand again soon.
✔ - Rand outing another of the Forsaken. The price might be a little heavy but he just keeps on swimming. Actually I love him and Min together, she seems to get him better than anyone else and I love how in her own way she is just as strong or actually stronger than him.
✔ - Mat and Tuon playing courting games that seem more like battle strategy I LOVE THEM SO MUCH TOGETHER
✔ - Thom finally telling us what is in that letter that Moraince left for him how many books ago. Well we get to read it AND I’m so excited about where that is going to lead our crew.
✔ - The Elayne the Daughter Heir finally finding her place. Whether it is on the Lion throne or not you will just have to read to see. Her arc is actually my least favorite maybe because so much time is spent on the pregnancy and sometimes she is so smart and THEN she does that very stupid thing towards the end that just leads me to believe she isn’t even close to ready to be a Queen.
✔ - Birgetta being awesome as always. Why would we need Galad or Gawyn again to protect Elayne??? I just don’t know. I’m pretty sure I know who Gaidal Cain is reincarnated as *crosses fingers* that is my favorite deviant in training
And Much Much more…. A few characters get the come-uppances that they deserve and it is so gratifying.
Was it worth going through three pretty slow books to get to some awesome? The jury is still out. For me yeah probably since Sanderson is finishing out this series and I read ~200 books a year so no biggy. But for someone else who doesn’t get to read so much and has to pick and choose probably not unless you are into extreme worldbuilding.
Very excited to start the into the end with my favorite Epic Fantasy Writer the fantastic Brandon Sanderson.
March 31, 2009
ORIGINALLY POSTED AT Fantasy Literature.
Knife of Dreams is another huge installment (1.3 days worth of audio!) which suffers the same faults as the last several WOT novels. But, if you've made it this far, perhaps that won't bug you.
I have to say that Robert Jordan can surely set a scene; indeed, each chapter begins with a very detailed description of the setting, including such minutia as the style and oiliness of men's beards, the height of ladies' boots, every knickknack on every plinth, every bit of jewelry worn by each character, how much bosom is exposed, how tight the pants are, etc. The reader certainly feels immersed in the setting, but for those who have other books they hope to read this year, this may be aggravating.
By this point in the series, I can no longer keep track of the characters. In the chapters about Elayne, we find Pelivar, high seat of House Coelan, and Perival, high seat of house Mantear. Ack!! And here are the names of the characters whose names begin with "An": Anaiya, Anaiyella, Ananda, Anath, Andaya Forae, Andaya Murasaka, Ander Corl, Ander Tol, Andhilin, Andil, Andra, Andric, Andris, Andro, Androl Genhald, Mistress Andscale, Anemara, Mistress Anford, Anghar, Angla, Anjen, Ankaer, Anlee, Annharid, Annoura Larisen, Anthelle Sharplyn, Antol, Anvaere, Anya. You'll find a list like this for every letter of the alphabet (see them at Encyclopaedia WOT. Did he expect us to study? I feel like I need flashcards.
Again, there's so much stuff in Knife of Dreams that we've already heard before: eyes a man could drown in, rosebud mouth, seductive copper-skinned domani, Aes Sedai don't show emotions (but they do), Loial sounds like a bumblebee, damp bowstrings don't work, arms folded beneath breasts, unnecessary adjustment of clothes, smiles that don't touch eyes, Mat worries about his men's influences on Olver (wink, wink -- yeah, we got it already!). I could go on and on and on. And don't even get me started on the spanking. There was more spanking in Knife of Dreams than any of the previous novels. Why are adults spanking each other?? (It's not for fun.) I rolled my eyes so often, I started to worry they'd stick.
There was one major redeeming factor here, though, and that's that the plot actually moves forward in Knife of Dreams. There are some big events that occur (each surrounded by a lot of fluff). I got the impression that after the last book (in which nothing happened for 900 pages), Mr Jordan woke up and said "oh, Light! Tarmon Gai'don's got to happen in the next book and I've got to get everyone there and on the same side!" And so we see that starting to happen -- alliances are being made, people are getting in position. In fact, some of it happens much too quickly and easily to be believed (e.g., Egwene's storyline, Whitecloak storyline). But that's fine with me -- let's get this over with.
Since Knife of Dreams was Robert Jordan's last book published before his death, let me say that I have enjoyed the world, the story, and the characters he created -- The Wheel of Time is truly epic and I respect Mr Jordan's work. My complaint is that it became aggravatingly slow and repetitive for the last several novels. But I eagerly look forward to finding out how it all ends.
You're up, Mr Sanderson!!
Read more Robert Jordan book reviews at Fantasy literature.
Knife of Dreams is another huge installment (1.3 days worth of audio!) which suffers the same faults as the last several WOT novels. But, if you've made it this far, perhaps that won't bug you.
I have to say that Robert Jordan can surely set a scene; indeed, each chapter begins with a very detailed description of the setting, including such minutia as the style and oiliness of men's beards, the height of ladies' boots, every knickknack on every plinth, every bit of jewelry worn by each character, how much bosom is exposed, how tight the pants are, etc. The reader certainly feels immersed in the setting, but for those who have other books they hope to read this year, this may be aggravating.
By this point in the series, I can no longer keep track of the characters. In the chapters about Elayne, we find Pelivar, high seat of House Coelan, and Perival, high seat of house Mantear. Ack!! And here are the names of the characters whose names begin with "An": Anaiya, Anaiyella, Ananda, Anath, Andaya Forae, Andaya Murasaka, Ander Corl, Ander Tol, Andhilin, Andil, Andra, Andric, Andris, Andro, Androl Genhald, Mistress Andscale, Anemara, Mistress Anford, Anghar, Angla, Anjen, Ankaer, Anlee, Annharid, Annoura Larisen, Anthelle Sharplyn, Antol, Anvaere, Anya. You'll find a list like this for every letter of the alphabet (see them at Encyclopaedia WOT. Did he expect us to study? I feel like I need flashcards.
Again, there's so much stuff in Knife of Dreams that we've already heard before: eyes a man could drown in, rosebud mouth, seductive copper-skinned domani, Aes Sedai don't show emotions (but they do), Loial sounds like a bumblebee, damp bowstrings don't work, arms folded beneath breasts, unnecessary adjustment of clothes, smiles that don't touch eyes, Mat worries about his men's influences on Olver (wink, wink -- yeah, we got it already!). I could go on and on and on. And don't even get me started on the spanking. There was more spanking in Knife of Dreams than any of the previous novels. Why are adults spanking each other?? (It's not for fun.) I rolled my eyes so often, I started to worry they'd stick.
There was one major redeeming factor here, though, and that's that the plot actually moves forward in Knife of Dreams. There are some big events that occur (each surrounded by a lot of fluff). I got the impression that after the last book (in which nothing happened for 900 pages), Mr Jordan woke up and said "oh, Light! Tarmon Gai'don's got to happen in the next book and I've got to get everyone there and on the same side!" And so we see that starting to happen -- alliances are being made, people are getting in position. In fact, some of it happens much too quickly and easily to be believed (e.g., Egwene's storyline, Whitecloak storyline). But that's fine with me -- let's get this over with.
Since Knife of Dreams was Robert Jordan's last book published before his death, let me say that I have enjoyed the world, the story, and the characters he created -- The Wheel of Time is truly epic and I respect Mr Jordan's work. My complaint is that it became aggravatingly slow and repetitive for the last several novels. But I eagerly look forward to finding out how it all ends.
You're up, Mr Sanderson!!
Read more Robert Jordan book reviews at Fantasy literature.
March 10, 2021
Knife of Dreams (Wheel of Time, #11), Robert Jordan
This volume of The Wheel of Time depicts several distinct plots. Unusual Trolloc attacks, the dead walking, ripples in the fabric of the world and other events seem to indicate that the Last Battle is drawing near; several characters using different evidence confidently state that Tarmon Gai'don is close at hand. Knife of Dreams is 784 pages long, including a glossary. It has a prologue, 37 chapters, and an epilogue.
تاریخ نخستین خوانش روز پانزدهم ماه مارس سال 2020میلادی
عنوان: سری چرخ زمان کتاب یازدهم: چاقوی رویا؛ نویسنده: رابرت جردن؛ موضوع داستانهای نویسندگان ایالات متحده آمریکا - سده 20م
چرخ زمان، سری رمانهایی از نوع «خیالپردازی حماسی (اپیک)» هستند، که توسط نویسنده «آمریکایی»، «جیمز الیور ریگنی جونیور» با نام قلم «رابرت جوردن» نگاشته شده اند؛ «چرخ زمان» نخست قرار بود، یک سری شش جلدی باشد، اما «جردن» آن را به دوازده کتاب، و سپس به چهارده کتاب و یک پیش درآمد، افزایش دادند؛ «جوردن» در سال 1984میلادی، آغاز به نگارش نخستین کتاب، از این سری با نام «چشم جهان» نمودند، که آن کتاب را، در ماه ژانویه سال 1990میلادی منتشر کردند؛ «جردن» پیش از پایان یافتن جلد دوازدهم از این سری، در سال 2007میلادی، به علت بیماری قلبی، از این سرای درگذشتند؛ و در همان سال، همسر ایشان، پس از خوانش «زاده مه، اثر برندون سندرسون»؛ ایشان را برای پایان دادن به کتاب پایانی سری برگزیدند؛ «سندرسون» با خوانش یادداشتهای «جردن»، به این نتیجه رسیدند، که یک جلد برای پایان کار سری کافی نیست، و به همسر «جردن» پیشنهاد دادند، که در سه جلد، سری «چرخ زمان» را به پایان برسانند، که مورد پذیرش همسر «جردن» قرار گرفت، و اینگونه «چرخ زمان» در پایان کار چهارده جلدی شد؛
در این سری، از اسطوره ها، و مکاتب گوناگونی، همانند «بوداییسم»، «هندوئیسم»، «فرهنگ اروپایی»، «مفاهیم متافیزیکی تعادل و ثنویت»، «احترام به طبیعت»، که در فلسفه ی «تائوئیسم» یافت میشود، «اسطوره شناسی آسیایی و اسلامی» سخن به میان آمده است؛ همچنین در این رمان، نام واقعی «اهریمن»، «شیطان» عنوان شده، که واژه ای «عربی» است، نویسنده، برای نگارش بخشی از این سری، از کتاب «جنگ و صلح (1869میلادی)» به قلم «لئو تولستوی» الهام گرفته اند؛
کتابهای این سری: «بهار نو (2004میلادی) (به عنوان پیشدرآمد و بیست سال پیش از رخدادهای نخستین رمان)»؛ کتاب نخست: «چشم جهان (1990میلادی)»؛ کتاب دوم: «شکار بزرگ (1990میلادی)»؛ کتاب سوم: «تجلی اژدها (1991میلادی)»؛ کتاب چهارم: «قیام سایهها (1992میلادی)»؛ کتاب پنجم: «شعلههای بهشت (1993میلادی)»؛ کتاب ششم: «ارباب آشفتگی (1995میلادی)»؛ کتاب هفتم: «تاج شمشیرها (1996میلادی)»؛ کتاب هشتم: «گذرگاه خنجرها (1998میلادی)»؛ کتاب نهم: «قلب زمستان (2000میلادی)»؛ کتاب دهم: «چهارراه شامگاهی (2003میلادی)»؛ کتاب یازدهم: «چاقوی رؤیا (2005میلادی)»؛ کتاب دوازدهم: «گرد آمدن طوفان (2009میلادی)»؛ کتاب سیزدهم: «برجهای نیمه شب (2010)»؛ کتاب چهاردهم: «یادآوری از روشنایی (2012میلادی)»؛
بازگویی داستان سری، از سه هزار سال پس از «شکاندن جهان» روی میدهد، که به «عصر افسانه ها» (که روزگاری بسیار پیشرفته بود) پایان داد؛ در روایتها، فناوری، و ساختارهای اجتماعی جهان، به اروپای «رنسانس» شباهت دارند، در این سری جامعه های، زنسالار نیز هستند؛ در بازنگاری رویدادها و بازگویی داستان، رویدادهایی همانند «انقلاب صنعتی» و ...؛ نیز روی میدهند
صحنهٔ اصلی رویدادهای این سری، بخش غربی قاره ای بزرگ است، که نام آن در متون نیامده است، ولی «رابرت جردن» در گفتگوهای خویش از آن با عنوان «وستلندز» یاد کرده اند؛ در «وستلندز»، از شرق، به رشته کوهی میپیوندد، که از چندین پادشاهی، و دولت-شهر، شکل گرفته است؛ در شرق آن رشته کوه نیز، بیابانی موسوم به «برهوت آئیل» قرار دارد، که ساکنین آن، قبیله ها، و جوامع جنگجوی «آئیل» هستند، که در سکونتگاههایی کوچک زندگی میکنند؛ در شرق «برهوت آئیل»، کشور بزرگ و منزوی «شارا»، قرار دارد، که با رشته کوهی بزرگوار، و منطقه ای گذر ناشدنی از «برهوت آئیل» جدا میشود؛ سراسر محدوده ی شمالی این سه منطقه (وستلندز، برهوت آئیل، و شارا) را، «پژمردگی کبیر» فرا گرفته است، که بیابانی آلوده، و شیطانی است؛ در غرب «وستلندز»، و آنسوی اقیانوسِ «مونرال»، قاره ی «شانچن» قرار دارد، که عرض غرب به شرقش، از قاره ی دیگر کمتر است، ولی از قطب شمال، تا قطب جنوب، کشیده شده است؛ قاره ی «شانچن»، با آبراهه ای، به دو بخش شمالی و جنوبی، تقسیم شده است؛ این آبراهه، اقیانوس «مونرال» را، به اقیانوس «آریت» وصل میکند؛ در شمالیترین بخش قسمت شمالی «شانچن»، «پژمردگی صغیر» واقع شده است، که با «پژمردگی کبیر» طول جغرافیایی یکسانی دارد؛ در آغاز داستان «چرخ زمان»، ساکنان «وستلندز»، از وجود «شانچن» بیخبر هستند؛ دنیای «چرخ زمان رابرت جردن» در نیمکره ی جنوبی، قاره ای کوچک، موسوم به «سرزمین دیوانگان» قرار دارد، ولی در سری از آن سخنی نرفته است
روایت سری در پایان «عصر سوم» روی میدهد؛ «عصر سوم» با «شکاندن جهان» آغاز میشود، که پایان بخش «عصر افسانه ها» بود؛ «عصر افسانه ها» در پی «عصر نخست» میآید؛ «عصر نخست» به صورت ضمنی، بر جهان کنونی دلالت دارد، و نام برخی از شخصیتهای اسطوره ای آن، در این سری آمده است، که «السبت، ملکهٔ همگان (اشاره به الیزابت دوم)» و «ماترز درمانگر (اشاره به مادر ترزا)» از آن دسته هستند؛
در عصر سوم در «وستلندز»، رویدادی تاریخی و بزرگ روی داد: نخست «جنگهای ترالک»، که در آن، هزار سال پس از «شکاندن جهان»، موجوداتی، از «پژمردگی»، «جهان انسانی» را، به نابودی میکشاندند، و دوم آشکار شدن «آرتور هاوکوینگ»، که هزار سال، پس از جنگهای «ترالک»، «وستلندز» را میگشاید، و یگانه میکند، ولی او وارثی نداشت، و «جنگهای صدساله»، پس از مرگ او، بر سر تقسیم قلمروش درگرفت؛ در پی هر یک از این دو رویداد، تقسیمهای سیاسی، و ساختار ملل «وستلندز»، به کلی دیگر شد؛ زبان کهن (که در عصر افسانه ها رایج بود) در زمان روایت داستانهای کتابهای این سری، زبانی مرده است، و تنها برخی پژوهشگران، و اشرافزادگان به آن زبان سخن میگویند
آخرین کتاب از سری «چرخ زمان» با عنوان «یادآوری از روشنایی (نور)» را «رابرت جوردن» و «براندون» سندرسون نگاشته اند؛ سری رمانهای «چرخ زمان» نزدیک به «یکصدهزار» شخصیت دارد؛ گزینش شخصیتها، میتواند برای هر خوانشگر به گونه ای دیگر باشد؛ ولی اگر بخواهیم، تنها پنج شخصیت اصلی این سری را بشناسیم، به این نامها میرسیم: «رند آلثور»؛ «اگوِِین آلور»؛«پِرین آیبارا»؛ «ماتریم (مت) کاوثن»، و «ناینیو آلمیرا»؛ هر کدام از این شخصیتها داستانی بسیار دل انگیز دارند
تاریخ بهنگام رسانی 19/12/1399هجری خورشیدی؛ ا. شربیانی
This volume of The Wheel of Time depicts several distinct plots. Unusual Trolloc attacks, the dead walking, ripples in the fabric of the world and other events seem to indicate that the Last Battle is drawing near; several characters using different evidence confidently state that Tarmon Gai'don is close at hand. Knife of Dreams is 784 pages long, including a glossary. It has a prologue, 37 chapters, and an epilogue.
تاریخ نخستین خوانش روز پانزدهم ماه مارس سال 2020میلادی
عنوان: سری چرخ زمان کتاب یازدهم: چاقوی رویا؛ نویسنده: رابرت جردن؛ موضوع داستانهای نویسندگان ایالات متحده آمریکا - سده 20م
چرخ زمان، سری رمانهایی از نوع «خیالپردازی حماسی (اپیک)» هستند، که توسط نویسنده «آمریکایی»، «جیمز الیور ریگنی جونیور» با نام قلم «رابرت جوردن» نگاشته شده اند؛ «چرخ زمان» نخست قرار بود، یک سری شش جلدی باشد، اما «جردن» آن را به دوازده کتاب، و سپس به چهارده کتاب و یک پیش درآمد، افزایش دادند؛ «جوردن» در سال 1984میلادی، آغاز به نگارش نخستین کتاب، از این سری با نام «چشم جهان» نمودند، که آن کتاب را، در ماه ژانویه سال 1990میلادی منتشر کردند؛ «جردن» پیش از پایان یافتن جلد دوازدهم از این سری، در سال 2007میلادی، به علت بیماری قلبی، از این سرای درگذشتند؛ و در همان سال، همسر ایشان، پس از خوانش «زاده مه، اثر برندون سندرسون»؛ ایشان را برای پایان دادن به کتاب پایانی سری برگزیدند؛ «سندرسون» با خوانش یادداشتهای «جردن»، به این نتیجه رسیدند، که یک جلد برای پایان کار سری کافی نیست، و به همسر «جردن» پیشنهاد دادند، که در سه جلد، سری «چرخ زمان» را به پایان برسانند، که مورد پذیرش همسر «جردن» قرار گرفت، و اینگونه «چرخ زمان» در پایان کار چهارده جلدی شد؛
در این سری، از اسطوره ها، و مکاتب گوناگونی، همانند «بوداییسم»، «هندوئیسم»، «فرهنگ اروپایی»، «مفاهیم متافیزیکی تعادل و ثنویت»، «احترام به طبیعت»، که در فلسفه ی «تائوئیسم» یافت میشود، «اسطوره شناسی آسیایی و اسلامی» سخن به میان آمده است؛ همچنین در این رمان، نام واقعی «اهریمن»، «شیطان» عنوان شده، که واژه ای «عربی» است، نویسنده، برای نگارش بخشی از این سری، از کتاب «جنگ و صلح (1869میلادی)» به قلم «لئو تولستوی» الهام گرفته اند؛
کتابهای این سری: «بهار نو (2004میلادی) (به عنوان پیشدرآمد و بیست سال پیش از رخدادهای نخستین رمان)»؛ کتاب نخست: «چشم جهان (1990میلادی)»؛ کتاب دوم: «شکار بزرگ (1990میلادی)»؛ کتاب سوم: «تجلی اژدها (1991میلادی)»؛ کتاب چهارم: «قیام سایهها (1992میلادی)»؛ کتاب پنجم: «شعلههای بهشت (1993میلادی)»؛ کتاب ششم: «ارباب آشفتگی (1995میلادی)»؛ کتاب هفتم: «تاج شمشیرها (1996میلادی)»؛ کتاب هشتم: «گذرگاه خنجرها (1998میلادی)»؛ کتاب نهم: «قلب زمستان (2000میلادی)»؛ کتاب دهم: «چهارراه شامگاهی (2003میلادی)»؛ کتاب یازدهم: «چاقوی رؤیا (2005میلادی)»؛ کتاب دوازدهم: «گرد آمدن طوفان (2009میلادی)»؛ کتاب سیزدهم: «برجهای نیمه شب (2010)»؛ کتاب چهاردهم: «یادآوری از روشنایی (2012میلادی)»؛
بازگویی داستان سری، از سه هزار سال پس از «شکاندن جهان» روی میدهد، که به «عصر افسانه ها» (که روزگاری بسیار پیشرفته بود) پایان داد؛ در روایتها، فناوری، و ساختارهای اجتماعی جهان، به اروپای «رنسانس» شباهت دارند، در این سری جامعه های، زنسالار نیز هستند؛ در بازنگاری رویدادها و بازگویی داستان، رویدادهایی همانند «انقلاب صنعتی» و ...؛ نیز روی میدهند
صحنهٔ اصلی رویدادهای این سری، بخش غربی قاره ای بزرگ است، که نام آن در متون نیامده است، ولی «رابرت جردن» در گفتگوهای خویش از آن با عنوان «وستلندز» یاد کرده اند؛ در «وستلندز»، از شرق، به رشته کوهی میپیوندد، که از چندین پادشاهی، و دولت-شهر، شکل گرفته است؛ در شرق آن رشته کوه نیز، بیابانی موسوم به «برهوت آئیل» قرار دارد، که ساکنین آن، قبیله ها، و جوامع جنگجوی «آئیل» هستند، که در سکونتگاههایی کوچک زندگی میکنند؛ در شرق «برهوت آئیل»، کشور بزرگ و منزوی «شارا»، قرار دارد، که با رشته کوهی بزرگوار، و منطقه ای گذر ناشدنی از «برهوت آئیل» جدا میشود؛ سراسر محدوده ی شمالی این سه منطقه (وستلندز، برهوت آئیل، و شارا) را، «پژمردگی کبیر» فرا گرفته است، که بیابانی آلوده، و شیطانی است؛ در غرب «وستلندز»، و آنسوی اقیانوسِ «مونرال»، قاره ی «شانچن» قرار دارد، که عرض غرب به شرقش، از قاره ی دیگر کمتر است، ولی از قطب شمال، تا قطب جنوب، کشیده شده است؛ قاره ی «شانچن»، با آبراهه ای، به دو بخش شمالی و جنوبی، تقسیم شده است؛ این آبراهه، اقیانوس «مونرال» را، به اقیانوس «آریت» وصل میکند؛ در شمالیترین بخش قسمت شمالی «شانچن»، «پژمردگی صغیر» واقع شده است، که با «پژمردگی کبیر» طول جغرافیایی یکسانی دارد؛ در آغاز داستان «چرخ زمان»، ساکنان «وستلندز»، از وجود «شانچن» بیخبر هستند؛ دنیای «چرخ زمان رابرت جردن» در نیمکره ی جنوبی، قاره ای کوچک، موسوم به «سرزمین دیوانگان» قرار دارد، ولی در سری از آن سخنی نرفته است
روایت سری در پایان «عصر سوم» روی میدهد؛ «عصر سوم» با «شکاندن جهان» آغاز میشود، که پایان بخش «عصر افسانه ها» بود؛ «عصر افسانه ها» در پی «عصر نخست» میآید؛ «عصر نخست» به صورت ضمنی، بر جهان کنونی دلالت دارد، و نام برخی از شخصیتهای اسطوره ای آن، در این سری آمده است، که «السبت، ملکهٔ همگان (اشاره به الیزابت دوم)» و «ماترز درمانگر (اشاره به مادر ترزا)» از آن دسته هستند؛
در عصر سوم در «وستلندز»، رویدادی تاریخی و بزرگ روی داد: نخست «جنگهای ترالک»، که در آن، هزار سال پس از «شکاندن جهان»، موجوداتی، از «پژمردگی»، «جهان انسانی» را، به نابودی میکشاندند، و دوم آشکار شدن «آرتور هاوکوینگ»، که هزار سال، پس از جنگهای «ترالک»، «وستلندز» را میگشاید، و یگانه میکند، ولی او وارثی نداشت، و «جنگهای صدساله»، پس از مرگ او، بر سر تقسیم قلمروش درگرفت؛ در پی هر یک از این دو رویداد، تقسیمهای سیاسی، و ساختار ملل «وستلندز»، به کلی دیگر شد؛ زبان کهن (که در عصر افسانه ها رایج بود) در زمان روایت داستانهای کتابهای این سری، زبانی مرده است، و تنها برخی پژوهشگران، و اشرافزادگان به آن زبان سخن میگویند
آخرین کتاب از سری «چرخ زمان» با عنوان «یادآوری از روشنایی (نور)» را «رابرت جوردن» و «براندون» سندرسون نگاشته اند؛ سری رمانهای «چرخ زمان» نزدیک به «یکصدهزار» شخصیت دارد؛ گزینش شخصیتها، میتواند برای هر خوانشگر به گونه ای دیگر باشد؛ ولی اگر بخواهیم، تنها پنج شخصیت اصلی این سری را بشناسیم، به این نامها میرسیم: «رند آلثور»؛ «اگوِِین آلور»؛«پِرین آیبارا»؛ «ماتریم (مت) کاوثن»، و «ناینیو آلمیرا»؛ هر کدام از این شخصیتها داستانی بسیار دل انگیز دارند
تاریخ بهنگام رسانی 19/12/1399هجری خورشیدی؛ ا. شربیانی
February 23, 2016
And so I've completed my last Robert Jordan book in a while. And a great one it was. I didn't quite feel that it was on the level of the early great ones like The Eye of the World, The Shadow Rising and Lord of Chaos, but it definitely takes the pace up after three almost disappointingly mediocre books.
In Knife of Dreams, interesting things start happening again, and we start moving towards a conclusion. I'm in doubt whether that's actually a positive thing, seeing as that means this all has to end...
Now it's up to Brandon Sanderson to determine whether this series will pass A Song of Ice and Fire as my second favourite fantasy.
Wheel of Time reviews:
#1 The Eye of the World
#2 The Great Hunt
#3 The Dragon Reborn
#4 The Shadow Rising
#5 The Fires of Heaven
#6 Lord of Chaos
#7 A Crown of Swords
#8 The Path of Daggers
#9 Winter's Heart
#10 Crossroads of Twilight
#11 Knife of Dreams
#12 The Gathering Storm
#13 Towers of Midnight
#14 A Memory of Light
In Knife of Dreams, interesting things start happening again, and we start moving towards a conclusion. I'm in doubt whether that's actually a positive thing, seeing as that means this all has to end...
Now it's up to Brandon Sanderson to determine whether this series will pass A Song of Ice and Fire as my second favourite fantasy.
Wheel of Time reviews:
#1 The Eye of the World
#2 The Great Hunt
#3 The Dragon Reborn
#4 The Shadow Rising
#5 The Fires of Heaven
#6 Lord of Chaos
#7 A Crown of Swords
#8 The Path of Daggers
#9 Winter's Heart
#10 Crossroads of Twilight
#11 Knife of Dreams
#12 The Gathering Storm
#13 Towers of Midnight
#14 A Memory of Light
April 7, 2011
First of all, I'd like to clear up the misconception that the series is meant to be read all at once and even the terrible books are decent if you're not waiting a couple years for each one. I started reading the Wheel of Time in 2003, and for the first six books I ran out to get the sequel as soon as I finished the one before it. Well, then the books started to slow down, and I lost interest... finally, I realized I could skip #9-10 entirely, read online summaries, and continue to Knife of Dreams. While I re-engaged enough to continue for a bit, my experience is proof that having them all (well, the first 10 anyway) available at once doesn't solve Jordan's problems. Of course the wait time contributes to the irritation readers feel, but it doesn't cloud their judgment; the bad books are bad, whether you have to wait in between or not.
Unfortunately, I would put Knife of Dreams into that category, although it is an improvement over, say, Path of Daggers. It is mildly entertaining. It's certainly readable. Occasionally things happen, although of course the book is divided between five major subplots (Rand, Mat, Perrin, Egwene, and Elayne, or six if you count Faile), interspersed with some minor ones as well, and so while they may resolve their private conflicts, it remains unclear why, say, Faile's capture and rescue or Elayne's gaining the Lion Throne is important in the great scheme of the series. Like in the previous tomes, scenes containing action are countered by the continuing focus on irrelevant power struggles between irrelevant female characters, complete with skirt-smoothing (elevated by Jordan to an infallible barometer of female agitation), arm-crossing (always "beneath her breasts" as if we were confused about where these crossed arms were going, above her head maybe) and spanking, of all things. The sad truth is that Jordan can't write political intrigue no matter how hard he tries. His strength is in action-adventure, which drew all of us in to the series in the first place but is sadly lacking here.
Now let me add my voice to the chorus expressing disgust for Jordan's portrayal of women. They are all the same person, and not a likeable one at that. All she (meaning every woman in the book) seems to care about is garnering power and deference from others, and therefore every woman in the book spends most of her time trying to one-up every other woman in the book. Healthy relationships, among women or between men and women, are nonexistent (Elayne and Aviendha are as close as it gets, so of course Jordan separates them); instead we get "I care about this person, but he/she is so hard to deal with!" Endlessly. I'm beginning to suspect that Jordan actually created a matriarchal-type society to express his views on why (in his opinion) women are catty and incompetent and men should rule all. Not that his men do much better, of course, but at least they don't smooth their skirts.
Then there is the continuing shallowness of all scenes featuring our supposed villains. I've come to dread these, because they boil down to one of two scenes: A) A baddie kowtows to a higher-ranking baddie, who in turn kowtows to an even higher-ranking one, and so forth up the line, with all conversations consisting of "Obey me or else!" "Y-y-yes, Master/Mistress. . . ." or B) A group of baddies gets together, apparently to plot or give progress reports, but it boils down to abovementioned one-upmanship, without having any effect on the plot.
And the circus that seems to be going on inside the main characters' heads. I've read a fair bit of fantasy, and am used to telepathic communication and the like. But Jordan overdoes it. Let's take a look at Rand's head, for instance. First there's the insane Lews Therin (and another guy). Then there's the matter with seeing Mat and Perrin whenever he thinks about them (all three try to push these visions away rather than using them for anything useful). And then he's formed a partial mind-meld with FOUR different women. He and Min are now having bizarre interactions in which they don't say or do anything, just sort of toss emotions back and forth. Then of course there's Mat with his dice and other people's memories, and Perrin and his wolves and his constant, irritating "sniffing" of people's emotions. Any one of these elements would be standard for fantasy; ALL of them is overdone. We can't relate.
Despite that whole mess, though (and numerous other weaknesses other reviewers have remarked on, and I will refrain from repeating), the book is worth reading if you're planning to see this epic through. Do what I did--skip #10 (maybe #8 or #9 as well), and get #11 from the library. In the meanwhile, read some GRR Martin and find out what REAL political intrigue looks like.
Unfortunately, I would put Knife of Dreams into that category, although it is an improvement over, say, Path of Daggers. It is mildly entertaining. It's certainly readable. Occasionally things happen, although of course the book is divided between five major subplots (Rand, Mat, Perrin, Egwene, and Elayne, or six if you count Faile), interspersed with some minor ones as well, and so while they may resolve their private conflicts, it remains unclear why, say, Faile's capture and rescue or Elayne's gaining the Lion Throne is important in the great scheme of the series. Like in the previous tomes, scenes containing action are countered by the continuing focus on irrelevant power struggles between irrelevant female characters, complete with skirt-smoothing (elevated by Jordan to an infallible barometer of female agitation), arm-crossing (always "beneath her breasts" as if we were confused about where these crossed arms were going, above her head maybe) and spanking, of all things. The sad truth is that Jordan can't write political intrigue no matter how hard he tries. His strength is in action-adventure, which drew all of us in to the series in the first place but is sadly lacking here.
Now let me add my voice to the chorus expressing disgust for Jordan's portrayal of women. They are all the same person, and not a likeable one at that. All she (meaning every woman in the book) seems to care about is garnering power and deference from others, and therefore every woman in the book spends most of her time trying to one-up every other woman in the book. Healthy relationships, among women or between men and women, are nonexistent (Elayne and Aviendha are as close as it gets, so of course Jordan separates them); instead we get "I care about this person, but he/she is so hard to deal with!" Endlessly. I'm beginning to suspect that Jordan actually created a matriarchal-type society to express his views on why (in his opinion) women are catty and incompetent and men should rule all. Not that his men do much better, of course, but at least they don't smooth their skirts.
Then there is the continuing shallowness of all scenes featuring our supposed villains. I've come to dread these, because they boil down to one of two scenes: A) A baddie kowtows to a higher-ranking baddie, who in turn kowtows to an even higher-ranking one, and so forth up the line, with all conversations consisting of "Obey me or else!" "Y-y-yes, Master/Mistress. . . ." or B) A group of baddies gets together, apparently to plot or give progress reports, but it boils down to abovementioned one-upmanship, without having any effect on the plot.
And the circus that seems to be going on inside the main characters' heads. I've read a fair bit of fantasy, and am used to telepathic communication and the like. But Jordan overdoes it. Let's take a look at Rand's head, for instance. First there's the insane Lews Therin (and another guy). Then there's the matter with seeing Mat and Perrin whenever he thinks about them (all three try to push these visions away rather than using them for anything useful). And then he's formed a partial mind-meld with FOUR different women. He and Min are now having bizarre interactions in which they don't say or do anything, just sort of toss emotions back and forth. Then of course there's Mat with his dice and other people's memories, and Perrin and his wolves and his constant, irritating "sniffing" of people's emotions. Any one of these elements would be standard for fantasy; ALL of them is overdone. We can't relate.
Despite that whole mess, though (and numerous other weaknesses other reviewers have remarked on, and I will refrain from repeating), the book is worth reading if you're planning to see this epic through. Do what I did--skip #10 (maybe #8 or #9 as well), and get #11 from the library. In the meanwhile, read some GRR Martin and find out what REAL political intrigue looks like.
November 23, 2016
*** 5+++ ***
A buddy read with the fabulous Tav'eren at BB^B!
This book was AMAZING!!!! Did I say that clearly? Absolutely FABULOUS!!!! WOW!!! My true love and admiration for Mr. Jordan has no bounds!!! This is the 11th book in the series and the last one before the death of the author. However, he was very good to us, the dedicated readers and found a young, but extremely talented writer, Brandon Sanderson, and gave him the notes in order for Sanderson to finish it in the spirit it was intended from the beginning. it was an act of true giving and care for his readership and I am truly grateful!!!
The book is full of action and we get to have a bit of all of our favorite characters and the direction their plot-lines are going. It started with Galad and the Whitecloaks in a very dramatic face off, a shocking news form Beyond the Seas, and battle after battle against the enemies of Mat, Perrin, and Elayne. Rand also makes an appearance, as brief as it was, and Min's viewings once again prove true. If I am on Rand's place, i am not sure I could take all the bad luck and bad things that keep piling up on him - he is no longer the country bumpkin we met in the first book and there is something very sad about that....
However, we got tons of Mat and Tuon, which is always awesome, so we will take it!!! He is reunited with his band of the Red Hand and Tuon, who although fascinated by him as a flirt, finally gets to witness the greatness that is Mat while in charge!!! He is becoming a character to truly root for!
Egwen is in the tower and gets her behind tanned on very regular basis, but somehow she is sticking to the high ground and I am starting to agree with her decision to stay there, despite being so badly treated. The girl is growing into a strong woman, although some of her thoughts are not always to my liking... Her friends Elayne and Avienda are also split apart and it seems like all of our main characters are on their own, dealing with very difficult situations. I know Elayne is pregnant, but she does drive me a bit nuts with her mood-swings... At least things and Andor are progressing decisively. Min is with Rand and Nynaeve, well she is still my favorite character of them all, after Mouraine, of course:)
Perrin and his small army are stuck between the Seanchan, Shaido Aiel, and Messina, the Prophet of the Dragon.... *SHUDDERS* I can't even imagine the torture of it, while still terrified for the love of his life and her safety. Fail is between a rock and a hard place as well, and both have the trust of many on their shoulders, trying to make it all workout for their people and themselves. Something happened there that I was very over, but I guess I should accept it is war and there are people who are going to be lost... *Sigh*
Also, The Dark Lord is touching our World and many creepy and unsettling things are happening all over the place - it does not look good for the followers of the Light, particularity since the Dark Friends plan of "Let Chaos Rule" has worked waaaaaay better than expected... We are getting closer and closer to the Last Battle...
This was the return to more action, which has been lacking a bit in the previous 2-3 books, which had their strengths in building up the world and giving us detail, but I was glad that we got to advance in plot so majorly here... As always, I recommend this series to everyone and have to remind you, start it at book 1 and read in order. It is worth the investment of time!!!
I wish you all happy reading and may you all be inspired by the writing of the masters!!!
A buddy read with the fabulous Tav'eren at BB^B!
This book was AMAZING!!!! Did I say that clearly? Absolutely FABULOUS!!!! WOW!!! My true love and admiration for Mr. Jordan has no bounds!!! This is the 11th book in the series and the last one before the death of the author. However, he was very good to us, the dedicated readers and found a young, but extremely talented writer, Brandon Sanderson, and gave him the notes in order for Sanderson to finish it in the spirit it was intended from the beginning. it was an act of true giving and care for his readership and I am truly grateful!!!
The book is full of action and we get to have a bit of all of our favorite characters and the direction their plot-lines are going. It started with Galad and the Whitecloaks in a very dramatic face off, a shocking news form Beyond the Seas, and battle after battle against the enemies of Mat, Perrin, and Elayne. Rand also makes an appearance, as brief as it was, and Min's viewings once again prove true. If I am on Rand's place, i am not sure I could take all the bad luck and bad things that keep piling up on him - he is no longer the country bumpkin we met in the first book and there is something very sad about that....
However, we got tons of Mat and Tuon, which is always awesome, so we will take it!!! He is reunited with his band of the Red Hand and Tuon, who although fascinated by him as a flirt, finally gets to witness the greatness that is Mat while in charge!!! He is becoming a character to truly root for!
Egwen is in the tower and gets her behind tanned on very regular basis, but somehow she is sticking to the high ground and I am starting to agree with her decision to stay there, despite being so badly treated. The girl is growing into a strong woman, although some of her thoughts are not always to my liking... Her friends Elayne and Avienda are also split apart and it seems like all of our main characters are on their own, dealing with very difficult situations. I know Elayne is pregnant, but she does drive me a bit nuts with her mood-swings... At least things and Andor are progressing decisively. Min is with Rand and Nynaeve, well she is still my favorite character of them all, after Mouraine, of course:)
Perrin and his small army are stuck between the Seanchan, Shaido Aiel, and Messina, the Prophet of the Dragon.... *SHUDDERS* I can't even imagine the torture of it, while still terrified for the love of his life and her safety. Fail is between a rock and a hard place as well, and both have the trust of many on their shoulders, trying to make it all workout for their people and themselves. Something happened there that I was very over, but I guess I should accept it is war and there are people who are going to be lost... *Sigh*
Also, The Dark Lord is touching our World and many creepy and unsettling things are happening all over the place - it does not look good for the followers of the Light, particularity since the Dark Friends plan of "Let Chaos Rule" has worked waaaaaay better than expected... We are getting closer and closer to the Last Battle...
This was the return to more action, which has been lacking a bit in the previous 2-3 books, which had their strengths in building up the world and giving us detail, but I was glad that we got to advance in plot so majorly here... As always, I recommend this series to everyone and have to remind you, start it at book 1 and read in order. It is worth the investment of time!!!
I wish you all happy reading and may you all be inspired by the writing of the masters!!!
November 28, 2016
Robert Jordan's last entry in his epic Wheel of Time series was one of the best books in the whole series. It had none of the pacing issues that have troubled the previous three to four instalments. The result was we got a WoT book with all the normal good stuff plus a ton of major plot advancements. Right from the prologue this was a fun and engaging read!
So what happened?
Spoilers ahead!!!
Rand: He was fairly low key in this one but still managed to come to a few interesting decisions and had another epic showdown with one of the Forsaken!
Mat: The star of yet another of the layer WoT books. We got to see him display a bit of his military expertise and got plenty of humour as his hilarious courtship of the Daughter of the Nine Moons continued.
Perrin: It is hard to say how I feel about Perrin's role in this book. His chapters were pretty exciting as he finally got to that Faile rescue attempt he has been pondering for books, but I continue to be super disappointed by his development on a personal level.
Egwene: She had another good book. After the shock ending to CoT she found herself back in the White Tower and it was interesting to see how well she dealt with everything they had to throw at her and how she won the respect of a whole bunch of different people.
Elayne: Her first few chapters were a little dull, but her story picked up the pace after that and a few long term story arcs were finally wrapped up in a relatively exciting fashion.
Nynaeve: She only made a tiny appearance but it was a memorable one. I think I'm finally warming to her relationship with Lan and I definitely enjoyed how things progressed for the pair in this one.
The Love Interests. Faile and Tuon got most of the page time. It was probably justified as both had exciting POV chapters. I loved the glimpses we got into Tuon's mind. She is a little crazy and so unlike most of the POV characters that you just get sucked into her POV segments. Faile's chapters were exciting, but just like Perrin she really managed to annoy me with some of her actions. Min and Aviendha were just there. There was at least a development that holds the promise for a bit more excitement from Aviendha in the next few books.
Random Secondary Characters: The most memorable was the return of Galad! Birgitte, Furyk, Pevara, and even Tarna's POV's also offered a good bit of excitement.
The Villains: Most were pretty quiet in this one but we did get a few exciting encounters with members of the Black Ajah and the devious Darkfriends Suroth and Galina. Then there was an absolutely hilarious meeting between the Forsaken. Though the real impression was made by Semirhage. She really flexed her muscles in this one and showed why even the other Forsaken tremble at her name!
All in all this was the best WoT book in ages and a super enjoyable read.
Now I must admit to feeling a bit sad that this was the last WoT book that Jordan wrote himself. As much of a Sanderson fan as I am, I am still a little nervous over the prospect of him taking over the series.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Audio Note: It goes without saying that Krammer and Reading were fantastic. That said, the production quality of my copy of the KoD was not the best. The audio even skipped a few times. The flaw seems to be an the production end as even a re-download from Audible resulted in the exact same issues. For such a popular book you would think blunders like this would fixed. They have had nearly a decade after all!
So what happened?
Spoilers ahead!!!
Rand: He was fairly low key in this one but still managed to come to a few interesting decisions and had another epic showdown with one of the Forsaken!
Mat: The star of yet another of the layer WoT books. We got to see him display a bit of his military expertise and got plenty of humour as his hilarious courtship of the Daughter of the Nine Moons continued.
Perrin: It is hard to say how I feel about Perrin's role in this book. His chapters were pretty exciting as he finally got to that Faile rescue attempt he has been pondering for books, but I continue to be super disappointed by his development on a personal level.
Egwene: She had another good book. After the shock ending to CoT she found herself back in the White Tower and it was interesting to see how well she dealt with everything they had to throw at her and how she won the respect of a whole bunch of different people.
Elayne: Her first few chapters were a little dull, but her story picked up the pace after that and a few long term story arcs were finally wrapped up in a relatively exciting fashion.
Nynaeve: She only made a tiny appearance but it was a memorable one. I think I'm finally warming to her relationship with Lan and I definitely enjoyed how things progressed for the pair in this one.
The Love Interests. Faile and Tuon got most of the page time. It was probably justified as both had exciting POV chapters. I loved the glimpses we got into Tuon's mind. She is a little crazy and so unlike most of the POV characters that you just get sucked into her POV segments. Faile's chapters were exciting, but just like Perrin she really managed to annoy me with some of her actions. Min and Aviendha were just there. There was at least a development that holds the promise for a bit more excitement from Aviendha in the next few books.
Random Secondary Characters: The most memorable was the return of Galad! Birgitte, Furyk, Pevara, and even Tarna's POV's also offered a good bit of excitement.
The Villains: Most were pretty quiet in this one but we did get a few exciting encounters with members of the Black Ajah and the devious Darkfriends Suroth and Galina. Then there was an absolutely hilarious meeting between the Forsaken. Though the real impression was made by Semirhage. She really flexed her muscles in this one and showed why even the other Forsaken tremble at her name!
All in all this was the best WoT book in ages and a super enjoyable read.
Now I must admit to feeling a bit sad that this was the last WoT book that Jordan wrote himself. As much of a Sanderson fan as I am, I am still a little nervous over the prospect of him taking over the series.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Audio Note: It goes without saying that Krammer and Reading were fantastic. That said, the production quality of my copy of the KoD was not the best. The audio even skipped a few times. The flaw seems to be an the production end as even a re-download from Audible resulted in the exact same issues. For such a popular book you would think blunders like this would fixed. They have had nearly a decade after all!
November 26, 2021
At the end of this, Robert Jordan's last book published during his lifetime, three million words into an iconic series, beloved by tens of millions of readers around the world, after delivering us a dozen tomes in fifteen years, I just have to say:
WHAT THE HELL, MAN?
I have been starting off my recent reviews as I re-read the entire series with looks at the cover art, but there's something at the end of Knife of Dreams that I have to address first. It's something I did not remember this from the last time I read this book in 2005. This is going be a very slight spoiler (with some other spoilers from prior books). I'm not giving away anything major for this book and I will leave out names. I think it deserves to be noted up front as a trigger warning.
Here it is: At the end of this book, a character is doomed to be gang-raped, for several months or longer, then sold into slavery. And the reader is meant to be on board with this.
This is not the first rape in the series, but this one is the most pointless and impossible to overlook. When Morgase was raped, it was portrayed as an evil act, and it had further consequences. When Mat was raped, it was distasteful, but one might see how Jordan as a man of a certain age and culture might not have understood it as rape, and fortunately we are evolving as a society. Myrdraal sometimes rape their victims but they are literally evil monsters who serve Satan. This book’s instance is unforgivable in its tacit expectation of audience approval.
Was this vile sentence pronounced by an evil character? Not really; her morality is not quite the best given that she supports a system of human slavery for some, and has personally worked to break people to make them just like obedient animals, so one might not argue for her objective goodness. But, we are supposed to like her, and a series main character is in love with her and marries her, so there's that. The character thus sentenced is a villain, sure, but we are supposed to be glad that her comeuppance is being gang-raped by soldiers for months? Was she even evil? She wasn't plucking out puppies' eyes or turning people into furniture; she just wanted political power.
This was after another "evil" character, in this same book, was separately doomed to a life of slavery and physical torture with no hope of escape. This was also presented to the reader as a just comeuppance.
It's not even darkfriends doing this shit. If you fail a darkfriend, sure you might be force-fed brandy until you drown in it, but at least that's a brief torture, not like a fucking LIFETIME OF GANG-RAPE AND SLAVERY.
So I say again, to Jordan's ghost (and editor/wife): WHAT THE ACTUAL HELL?
This is in the context of a book that memorably ramps up the spanking of female bottoms. Which is in a different realm, but still.
This casts a HUGE shade over the series now, but I will continue with my review as it gestated in my brain before I hit this astoundingly thoughtless roadblock.
*********************
NOW, we can talk about the cover art. If you've been following my reviews of the prior books, you'll know I'm frequently irked by the original covers.
Andrew Sweet (now deceased) was an amazing artist in most ways. The original cover art for The Eye of the World is wonderful and iconic. His other images for the Wheel of Time are grand and beautiful when taken as a whole. Here is a lovely article that provides the unmarked full-jacket images, showing his mastery of fantasy landscapes: https://www.tor.com/2012/04/20/a-darr...
My issue with the book covers as they turned out is about the figures, who most often are just plain weird-looking in stance, and frequently fail to convey age-appropriateness for the well-established characters.
In Knife of Dreams, Spring has sprung in Randland, and this means that two full years have now passed since our little adventure began. That's right; from the time that Rand first glimpsed a shadowy figure as he marched with Tam Al'Thor down to Emond's Field for Bel Tine, only two years have passed in-world. In that time, Perrin has grown from this beefcake:
to this hobbity-looking dude:
and now he's, frankly, looking a little worse for wear:
I suppose what some say is true; marriage (to Faile) will age a man.
For this cover, the long, long-awaited eleventh entry in the tens-of-millions-selling Wheel of Time series, the choices of amazing, fantastic settings was boundless. All of these magnificent sights, some inspiring, some terrifying, were available:
-Tar Valon, the fabled White Tower, heart of the Aes Sedai
-Shadar Logoth, even as a giant hole in the ground
-Shayol Ghul, home of the Pit of Doom
-the Blight
-the Stone of Tear
-Dragonmount
This is what was chosen to be pictured instead:
-the inside of some tent
Okay, then! At least we get a good look at Perrin in action. By "in action" I mean "grumpy while discussing strategy." The scene has him in conversation with Galina, who apparently was instructed to do the chicken dance at this juncture. And WHY IS THAT AIEL DUDE LOOKING RIGHT AT ME? STOP IT! Anyway, it's Perrin that we like, and although he doesn't have his hammer, or his axe, this must be Perrin. By the way, what is Perrin's most distinctive physical feature? You know, that thing that even strangers glancing at him in passing notice and are taken aback by? Oh that's right, it's his golden eyes! Perrin Goldeneyes, wolfbrother, in the flesh. Let's zoom in on the picture to take a gander, shall we? Computer, enhance:
ENHANCE!:
. . . WHAR GOLDENEYES???
Moving along, there are actually good things to say about this book! For one, it's better than Crossroads of Twilight, and thank heavens, although this is akin to saying that getting punched in the kidney is better than being torn apart by sharks. Unfortunately, the depressing stench of that prior book makes all of the dreary, unnecessarily detailed, drawn-out moments that still exist in Knife of Dreams stand out that much worse. Crossroads broke me! Yes, the series has plenty of slow, detestable segments before that, but my heart is now drained of forgiveness. I can still enjoy the good parts. I still want to finish the series (especially since the author baton has been passed at this point). I can praise the good parts of Knife of Dreams. But it does not erase the sins of the past, and neither does it correct some of them.
Here is the good stuff, with caveats as required:
-Egwene's new sub-arc from inside the White Tower was great (although I would like to have seen more of it in this book).
- Rand's scant few chapters were (mostly) exciting! (Although... we already got a full description in the prior book about the furniture and decor in the minor lord's manor that he and his entourage were staying in. We were already told through these many, many details that this was not a supremely wealthy lord. We understood the socioeconomic and historical status of this location in the prior book. So what made Jordan think these details needed to be rehashed?) (Second caveat to the Rand chapters: did anyone care about Weiramon and whoever else we re-encountered in the Stone of Tear? They were a minor annoyance up to book five, then forgotten until now and I would have preferred they stayed that way.)
-Mat's chapters were lovely; his relationship with Tuon made progress, and that last scene with them together gave me chills.
-A brief sequence involving Nynaeve and Lan was terrific, building up great promise for future events.
That last point brings me to one of my recurring complaints about this series, starting around Lord of Chaos. There is a distinct lack of strong single-book plot arcs. Instead, we get arcs that are chopped up and spread out across a three, four, or five-book span (and heck, at least one thread has hung dead for seven books,) and not in an engaging way. So, now whenever there is an interesting development, I have zero faith that it will be revisited in the next book. Is this any way to write a series? The first and only other time I ever read Knife of Dreams, on initial release, I had no recollection of who Galad was, or Eamon Valda, or what the prologue's opening Whitecloak scene was all about, and I had re-read the first several books in the series multiple times. I can only differentiate Galad and Gawyn on this re-read because I forcibly made myself remember this time.
I feel like the craft of writing multi-volume epic fantasy has improved over the intervening years, so maybe that skillset simply wasn't available yet. Here's what I think about the lingering plotlines that were just as dreary in Knife of Dreams as they were in the prior several books:
Elayne. I like Elayne! I like her rashness, her peppiness, her strength, and her ability to browbeat even Nynaeve when necessary. I hated her prolonged "secure the throne" arc.
I also still hated Perrin's "rescue Faile' arc, started what feels like eighteen books earlier, and the only good thing that I can say about it is that it's finally over. The climax of all that could have been good. An intense battle between a small, determined, disparate force and the overwhelming numbers of the Shaido Aiel! That could have been awesome. Instead we got a lacklustre, skip-over-most-of-it battle scene that sees Perrin basically waltzing into Malden, going, "How will I ever find Faile, oh there she is walking towards me, no problem."
Amidst all this Perrin-driven banality, Aram's looooooong arc since he picked up a sword that consisted exclusively of him hovering around Perrin like a creep came to a final pphbbbbtt. Masema (not to be confused with Mishima who was inserted into the same setting)... anything? No? How about those Shaido Aiel; oh they're just walking away, not going to be a problem for Rand or the Last Battle or anything? Wonderful, I'm glad we spent so much time on them over the past seven books. This whole set of endless intermingled arcs were a total fail. Or Faile. Ha ha.
In total, despite some series fans hailing this book as one of the best in the series, after the pain of the last many books (Three? Five or six? It depends on what series aspects are your particular triggers), I can't isolate this volume and hold it in particularly high regard, simply for containing the minimum amount of plot advancement that every book should have.
Where does all this leave me? I've been re-reading the entire series, one book per month, since the start of 2021. I hate to be a "because of the screen adaptation" reader but I had quite enough other reading plans to make it any earlier, and I didn't want to want years beyond the Amazon TV series before revisiting this series. I read the first several books multiple times, the final books only once each, and I don't remember many details of the Sanderson-finished books other than the Last Battle. So, despite my increasingly depressed feelings about the series over the course of the last several books, I still have something to look forward to. But, at this point, I cannot recommend the series to a new reader. I felt this way even before the rapey problems this book's ending highlights (and yes, this is not the first rape in the series, but it's the first one treated with this depth of casualness and glee). I still hope to enjoy the remaining volumes.
ONE FINAL THING. In many of my previous reviews during this series re-read, I have been keeping track of where all of those gosh-darned Forsaken are at. I did this because in the past, although they were one of my favorite series elements. I lost sight of who was doing what and where, and when they started being resurrected it messed me up further. I realize now, this is the fault of the books, not a personal failing.
Until this book, I loved me a good Forsaken POV chapter, so juicy and sweet. But in Knife of Dreams the Forsaken-focused chapter was lame, and in truth they have all become lame. This is somewhat literal; since in Lord of Chaos they were instructed not to kill Rand, they have become merely a background irritation and nothing more, just as much as the Shaido. They sit around, all suspicious of each other in their mood gowns, wishing for the comforts of the past, whinging about everything and cringing before Moridin and that super-myrdraal. Waah waah waah. Their knowledge about what is happening in-world is woefully less than the reader's, and they have proven themselves no stronger than our heroes, so why should we be concerned about them? Even the first time I read the series, once they started being brought back to life in different bodies all willy-nilly, I thought, what is the point of it all? They have gone from fearsome, powerful predators to little whiny babies. And don't even get me started on this 'True Power' nonsense. Anyway, here is my little update for the once-scary-nightmare-fodder-turned-little-babies:
RIP James Oliver Rigney Jr. I and my series buddy readers are taking a month off for mourning before starting the next book.
WHAT THE HELL, MAN?
I have been starting off my recent reviews as I re-read the entire series with looks at the cover art, but there's something at the end of Knife of Dreams that I have to address first. It's something I did not remember this from the last time I read this book in 2005. This is going be a very slight spoiler (with some other spoilers from prior books). I'm not giving away anything major for this book and I will leave out names. I think it deserves to be noted up front as a trigger warning.
Here it is: At the end of this book, a character is doomed to be gang-raped, for several months or longer, then sold into slavery. And the reader is meant to be on board with this.
This is not the first rape in the series, but this one is the most pointless and impossible to overlook. When Morgase was raped, it was portrayed as an evil act, and it had further consequences. When Mat was raped, it was distasteful, but one might see how Jordan as a man of a certain age and culture might not have understood it as rape, and fortunately we are evolving as a society. Myrdraal sometimes rape their victims but they are literally evil monsters who serve Satan. This book’s instance is unforgivable in its tacit expectation of audience approval.
Was this vile sentence pronounced by an evil character? Not really; her morality is not quite the best given that she supports a system of human slavery for some, and has personally worked to break people to make them just like obedient animals, so one might not argue for her objective goodness. But, we are supposed to like her, and a series main character is in love with her and marries her, so there's that. The character thus sentenced is a villain, sure, but we are supposed to be glad that her comeuppance is being gang-raped by soldiers for months? Was she even evil? She wasn't plucking out puppies' eyes or turning people into furniture; she just wanted political power.
This was after another "evil" character, in this same book, was separately doomed to a life of slavery and physical torture with no hope of escape. This was also presented to the reader as a just comeuppance.
It's not even darkfriends doing this shit. If you fail a darkfriend, sure you might be force-fed brandy until you drown in it, but at least that's a brief torture, not like a fucking LIFETIME OF GANG-RAPE AND SLAVERY.
So I say again, to Jordan's ghost (and editor/wife): WHAT THE ACTUAL HELL?
This is in the context of a book that memorably ramps up the spanking of female bottoms. Which is in a different realm, but still.
This casts a HUGE shade over the series now, but I will continue with my review as it gestated in my brain before I hit this astoundingly thoughtless roadblock.
*********************
NOW, we can talk about the cover art. If you've been following my reviews of the prior books, you'll know I'm frequently irked by the original covers.
Andrew Sweet (now deceased) was an amazing artist in most ways. The original cover art for The Eye of the World is wonderful and iconic. His other images for the Wheel of Time are grand and beautiful when taken as a whole. Here is a lovely article that provides the unmarked full-jacket images, showing his mastery of fantasy landscapes: https://www.tor.com/2012/04/20/a-darr...
My issue with the book covers as they turned out is about the figures, who most often are just plain weird-looking in stance, and frequently fail to convey age-appropriateness for the well-established characters.
In Knife of Dreams, Spring has sprung in Randland, and this means that two full years have now passed since our little adventure began. That's right; from the time that Rand first glimpsed a shadowy figure as he marched with Tam Al'Thor down to Emond's Field for Bel Tine, only two years have passed in-world. In that time, Perrin has grown from this beefcake:
to this hobbity-looking dude:
and now he's, frankly, looking a little worse for wear:
I suppose what some say is true; marriage (to Faile) will age a man.
For this cover, the long, long-awaited eleventh entry in the tens-of-millions-selling Wheel of Time series, the choices of amazing, fantastic settings was boundless. All of these magnificent sights, some inspiring, some terrifying, were available:
-Tar Valon, the fabled White Tower, heart of the Aes Sedai
-Shadar Logoth, even as a giant hole in the ground
-Shayol Ghul, home of the Pit of Doom
-the Blight
-the Stone of Tear
-Dragonmount
This is what was chosen to be pictured instead:
-the inside of some tent
Okay, then! At least we get a good look at Perrin in action. By "in action" I mean "grumpy while discussing strategy." The scene has him in conversation with Galina, who apparently was instructed to do the chicken dance at this juncture. And WHY IS THAT AIEL DUDE LOOKING RIGHT AT ME? STOP IT! Anyway, it's Perrin that we like, and although he doesn't have his hammer, or his axe, this must be Perrin. By the way, what is Perrin's most distinctive physical feature? You know, that thing that even strangers glancing at him in passing notice and are taken aback by? Oh that's right, it's his golden eyes! Perrin Goldeneyes, wolfbrother, in the flesh. Let's zoom in on the picture to take a gander, shall we? Computer, enhance:
ENHANCE!:
. . . WHAR GOLDENEYES???
Moving along, there are actually good things to say about this book! For one, it's better than Crossroads of Twilight, and thank heavens, although this is akin to saying that getting punched in the kidney is better than being torn apart by sharks. Unfortunately, the depressing stench of that prior book makes all of the dreary, unnecessarily detailed, drawn-out moments that still exist in Knife of Dreams stand out that much worse. Crossroads broke me! Yes, the series has plenty of slow, detestable segments before that, but my heart is now drained of forgiveness. I can still enjoy the good parts. I still want to finish the series (especially since the author baton has been passed at this point). I can praise the good parts of Knife of Dreams. But it does not erase the sins of the past, and neither does it correct some of them.
Here is the good stuff, with caveats as required:
-Egwene's new sub-arc from inside the White Tower was great (although I would like to have seen more of it in this book).
- Rand's scant few chapters were (mostly) exciting! (Although... we already got a full description in the prior book about the furniture and decor in the minor lord's manor that he and his entourage were staying in. We were already told through these many, many details that this was not a supremely wealthy lord. We understood the socioeconomic and historical status of this location in the prior book. So what made Jordan think these details needed to be rehashed?) (Second caveat to the Rand chapters: did anyone care about Weiramon and whoever else we re-encountered in the Stone of Tear? They were a minor annoyance up to book five, then forgotten until now and I would have preferred they stayed that way.)
-Mat's chapters were lovely; his relationship with Tuon made progress, and that last scene with them together gave me chills.
-A brief sequence involving Nynaeve and Lan was terrific, building up great promise for future events.
That last point brings me to one of my recurring complaints about this series, starting around Lord of Chaos. There is a distinct lack of strong single-book plot arcs. Instead, we get arcs that are chopped up and spread out across a three, four, or five-book span (and heck, at least one thread has hung dead for seven books,) and not in an engaging way. So, now whenever there is an interesting development, I have zero faith that it will be revisited in the next book. Is this any way to write a series? The first and only other time I ever read Knife of Dreams, on initial release, I had no recollection of who Galad was, or Eamon Valda, or what the prologue's opening Whitecloak scene was all about, and I had re-read the first several books in the series multiple times. I can only differentiate Galad and Gawyn on this re-read because I forcibly made myself remember this time.
I feel like the craft of writing multi-volume epic fantasy has improved over the intervening years, so maybe that skillset simply wasn't available yet. Here's what I think about the lingering plotlines that were just as dreary in Knife of Dreams as they were in the prior several books:
Elayne. I like Elayne! I like her rashness, her peppiness, her strength, and her ability to browbeat even Nynaeve when necessary. I hated her prolonged "secure the throne" arc.
I also still hated Perrin's "rescue Faile' arc, started what feels like eighteen books earlier, and the only good thing that I can say about it is that it's finally over. The climax of all that could have been good. An intense battle between a small, determined, disparate force and the overwhelming numbers of the Shaido Aiel! That could have been awesome. Instead we got a lacklustre, skip-over-most-of-it battle scene that sees Perrin basically waltzing into Malden, going, "How will I ever find Faile, oh there she is walking towards me, no problem."
Amidst all this Perrin-driven banality, Aram's looooooong arc since he picked up a sword that consisted exclusively of him hovering around Perrin like a creep came to a final pphbbbbtt. Masema (not to be confused with Mishima who was inserted into the same setting)... anything? No? How about those Shaido Aiel; oh they're just walking away, not going to be a problem for Rand or the Last Battle or anything? Wonderful, I'm glad we spent so much time on them over the past seven books. This whole set of endless intermingled arcs were a total fail. Or Faile. Ha ha.
In total, despite some series fans hailing this book as one of the best in the series, after the pain of the last many books (Three? Five or six? It depends on what series aspects are your particular triggers), I can't isolate this volume and hold it in particularly high regard, simply for containing the minimum amount of plot advancement that every book should have.
Where does all this leave me? I've been re-reading the entire series, one book per month, since the start of 2021. I hate to be a "because of the screen adaptation" reader but I had quite enough other reading plans to make it any earlier, and I didn't want to want years beyond the Amazon TV series before revisiting this series. I read the first several books multiple times, the final books only once each, and I don't remember many details of the Sanderson-finished books other than the Last Battle. So, despite my increasingly depressed feelings about the series over the course of the last several books, I still have something to look forward to. But, at this point, I cannot recommend the series to a new reader. I felt this way even before the rapey problems this book's ending highlights (and yes, this is not the first rape in the series, but it's the first one treated with this depth of casualness and glee). I still hope to enjoy the remaining volumes.
ONE FINAL THING. In many of my previous reviews during this series re-read, I have been keeping track of where all of those gosh-darned Forsaken are at. I did this because in the past, although they were one of my favorite series elements. I lost sight of who was doing what and where, and when they started being resurrected it messed me up further. I realize now, this is the fault of the books, not a personal failing.
Until this book, I loved me a good Forsaken POV chapter, so juicy and sweet. But in Knife of Dreams the Forsaken-focused chapter was lame, and in truth they have all become lame. This is somewhat literal; since in Lord of Chaos they were instructed not to kill Rand, they have become merely a background irritation and nothing more, just as much as the Shaido. They sit around, all suspicious of each other in their mood gowns, wishing for the comforts of the past, whinging about everything and cringing before Moridin and that super-myrdraal. Waah waah waah. Their knowledge about what is happening in-world is woefully less than the reader's, and they have proven themselves no stronger than our heroes, so why should we be concerned about them? Even the first time I read the series, once they started being brought back to life in different bodies all willy-nilly, I thought, what is the point of it all? They have gone from fearsome, powerful predators to little whiny babies. And don't even get me started on this 'True Power' nonsense. Anyway, here is my little update for the once-scary-nightmare-fodder-turned-little-babies:
RIP James Oliver Rigney Jr. I and my series buddy readers are taking a month off for mourning before starting the next book.
November 29, 2016
Buddy read with the Dragon Sworn over at BB&B
What a ride! CoT was one of the slower books (if not the slowest one) of the series so I was a bit accustomed to the boredom of political maneuvering and the characters just mull around doing nothing. So when this one started with a bang - the prologue was simply amazing - I got so hyped that I could barely sleep. Following the prologue things slowed a bit but not by much. KoD was fast paced and choke full of action. Now that all the characters were at the right places and everything was set several major plotlines spanning the last several books got resolved - most importantly the Perrin and Faile one.
Egwene surprised me in this book. Her chapters used to be among the most boring ones but now that she's a prisoner of the White Tower she really showed what's she's made of. The difference between her and Elaida is so huge that I wonder if her mere presence in the Tower will lead to some of Elaida's followers to defect. I feel pity for the red sister because she truly believes that she's doing the right thing and yet one day soon she'll turn back and see that she's ruined everything she holds dear.
Elayne's plotline is another one that finally got resolved.
Rand's chapters were interesting as well. But the numbness he experience is beginning to worry me. The fact that even
As with the previous book Mat stole the show. I loved every single page he was in. Add in Tuon's POV and I was a happy, happy camper! Their plotline was the one I was most invested in and even knowing that she'll eventually speak the words to I'm only mad that
The epilogue managed to make me anxious to start the next book, especially with the events at the Black Tower.
I hope so, so much that the next few books will keep the pace because Tarmon Gai'don is just beyond the corner and there are only 3 more books left!
What a ride! CoT was one of the slower books (if not the slowest one) of the series so I was a bit accustomed to the boredom of political maneuvering and the characters just mull around doing nothing. So when this one started with a bang - the prologue was simply amazing - I got so hyped that I could barely sleep. Following the prologue things slowed a bit but not by much. KoD was fast paced and choke full of action. Now that all the characters were at the right places and everything was set several major plotlines spanning the last several books got resolved - most importantly the Perrin and Faile one.
Egwene surprised me in this book. Her chapters used to be among the most boring ones but now that she's a prisoner of the White Tower she really showed what's she's made of. The difference between her and Elaida is so huge that I wonder if her mere presence in the Tower will lead to some of Elaida's followers to defect. I feel pity for the red sister because she truly believes that she's doing the right thing and yet one day soon she'll turn back and see that she's ruined everything she holds dear.
Elayne's plotline is another one that finally got resolved.
Rand's chapters were interesting as well. But the numbness he experience is beginning to worry me. The fact that even
As with the previous book Mat stole the show. I loved every single page he was in. Add in Tuon's POV and I was a happy, happy camper! Their plotline was the one I was most invested in and even knowing that she'll eventually speak the words to I'm only mad that
The epilogue managed to make me anxious to start the next book, especially with the events at the Black Tower.
I hope so, so much that the next few books will keep the pace because Tarmon Gai'don is just beyond the corner and there are only 3 more books left!
July 26, 2021
I feel like this is SORT of a mixed bag for me depending on the POV that we're in at any given time but overall I very much enjoyed Knife of Dreams and am happy that the slog is behind me. KoD took a while to get going for me but there really are so many big moments that happen in this book for the main cast and it really feels like things were starting to finally come together in the series. Unfortunately this is when we lost Robert Jordan and I do wish we had the opportunity to see him complete his series the way he envisioned it but onto The Gathering Storm.
Oh yeah, there's a lot of spanking in this book.
Oh yeah, there's a lot of spanking in this book.
January 10, 2024
So so so good! And so much happening. And Mat’s arc! Yessss!
April 26, 2022
4.5⭐️
I swear, if I didn't know differently, I wouldn't believe that Knife of Dreams and Crossroads of Twilight were written by the same person. My god, what a breath of fresh air.
There were so many amazing plot threads and payoffs in this book, and many that I've been waiting multiple books to see, and Robert Jordan just executed them so freaking well! I am so so happy and relieved to have enjoyed this so much after experiencing the ~slog~ and Jordan certainly finished on a high note before Sanderson joined in to finish the final three books. I'm very much looking forward to continuing the series now with renewed motivation!
I will have a spoiler chat video coming soon, as always!
I swear, if I didn't know differently, I wouldn't believe that Knife of Dreams and Crossroads of Twilight were written by the same person. My god, what a breath of fresh air.
There were so many amazing plot threads and payoffs in this book, and many that I've been waiting multiple books to see, and Robert Jordan just executed them so freaking well! I am so so happy and relieved to have enjoyed this so much after experiencing the ~slog~ and Jordan certainly finished on a high note before Sanderson joined in to finish the final three books. I'm very much looking forward to continuing the series now with renewed motivation!
I will have a spoiler chat video coming soon, as always!
July 8, 2021
“If you have done what’s wrong, even in the service to the Light, then you have to do what’s right to balance it.”
Finally! We get to the point where the Creator said to Jordan, “Now or never! This is the moment!” And it is the 11th volume of the series where something finally starts to happen. The only thing which can tire is a 100-pages-long prologue. The things one can find there include Rodel Ituralde who we’ve seen last time in the previous book prologue - is that meant to be funny? (no, don’t answer) However, when you get through it, you hit the ground running. And what a pleasant run it is.
Knife of Dreams keeps a fairly high level. Of course, I have some reservations that I have already mentioned in my reviews of previous volumes. Generally, however, the plot is interesting, it takes place in different locations, we follow the fate of many characters who get an equal share of our attention, and things that are happening are relevant for the main arc.
On a side note: Rand’s conversations with Lews Therin keep getting better and better.
After reading this instalment, I finally had an impression that the action has leapt forward. And that it is tight. The events are definitely happening faster and take sharper turns. Some threads were cut short, others looped even more. Some of the heroes even managed to achieve their intermediate goals (oh, and good riddance, some of those sub-plots were nauseating!). The only reason for sadness is the death of the tertiary character, who saved the life of the secondary character, only to be killed by the primary character. That was written rather noncommittally.
Nonetheless, in the 11th volume of the series, Robert Jordan suddenly returned to the top form of his writing. He stopped stalling and dissembling, and the effect is almost,almost as good as in “The Shadow Rising.” There are definitely fewer loooooooong descriptions. The book reads much faster than previous volumes, which was a pleasant surprise after the last somnambulic triplets. Especially the final chapters are boredom-free (it is still Mr Jordan, of course, and so fear not! we will still be informed who’s wearing what in which scene, but blessedly with less detail).
Things I cannot stomach are not many. Mostly, I think it is time to talk about how Mr Jordan uses corporeal punishments because they are the ultimate answer to every trouble. If throughout the series you drank every time someone is being slapped on a bare butt, you’d need a liver transplant by now. And really - am I the only one disgusted here by the fact that corporeal punishment is the automatic go-to then something must be achieved be it by anyone, be it Darkfriends or Aes Sedai? To make matters worse, this revelling in being beaten turns the book into a weird BDSM party Aiel style (if we can imagine the Aiel to party hard).
I am also seething with frustrations that while Siuan has been restored only to fractional power after stilling those healed by Damer Flinn are restored fully (how convenient!) One good thing is that at least the limbic cord that kept Aviendha in the form of Elayne’s background is cut and so perhaps we will see Aviendha on her own again and not merely a trailing shadow (though her departure was as perplexing as her stay in Caemlyn). By the way, Elayne’s stupidity and lack of self-preservation are overwhelming once again. In any less forgiving fantasy world, she would already be dead several times. Not here. Alas.
It is difficult to juxtapose individual volumes - some are weaker, others more interesting. This one definitely belongs to the latter group. If you haven’t made it that far into The Wheel of Time yet, or if you are stuck somewhere around books 7 to 10 and if you are wondering whether to continue, I’d say: try because this volume shows it is worth the while.
Also in the series:
1. The Eye of the World ★★★★☆
2. The Great Hunt ★★★★☆
3. The Dragon Reborn ★★★★☆
4. The Shadow Rising ★★★★☆
5. The Fires of Heaven ★★★★☆
6. Lord of Chaos ★★★☆☆
7. A Crown of Swords ★★★☆☆
8. The Path of Daggers ★★★☆☆
9. Winter's Heart ★☆☆☆☆
10. Crossroads of Twilight ★★☆☆☆
12. The Gathering Storm ★★★★☆
13. Towers of Midnight ★★★☆☆
14. A Memory of Light ★★★☆☆
Finally! We get to the point where the Creator said to Jordan, “Now or never! This is the moment!” And it is the 11th volume of the series where something finally starts to happen. The only thing which can tire is a 100-pages-long prologue. The things one can find there include Rodel Ituralde who we’ve seen last time in the previous book prologue - is that meant to be funny? (no, don’t answer) However, when you get through it, you hit the ground running. And what a pleasant run it is.
Knife of Dreams keeps a fairly high level. Of course, I have some reservations that I have already mentioned in my reviews of previous volumes. Generally, however, the plot is interesting, it takes place in different locations, we follow the fate of many characters who get an equal share of our attention, and things that are happening are relevant for the main arc.
On a side note: Rand’s conversations with Lews Therin keep getting better and better.
After reading this instalment, I finally had an impression that the action has leapt forward. And that it is tight. The events are definitely happening faster and take sharper turns. Some threads were cut short, others looped even more. Some of the heroes even managed to achieve their intermediate goals (oh, and good riddance, some of those sub-plots were nauseating!). The only reason for sadness is the death of the tertiary character, who saved the life of the secondary character, only to be killed by the primary character. That was written rather noncommittally.
Nonetheless, in the 11th volume of the series, Robert Jordan suddenly returned to the top form of his writing. He stopped stalling and dissembling, and the effect is almost,almost as good as in “The Shadow Rising.” There are definitely fewer loooooooong descriptions. The book reads much faster than previous volumes, which was a pleasant surprise after the last somnambulic triplets. Especially the final chapters are boredom-free (it is still Mr Jordan, of course, and so fear not! we will still be informed who’s wearing what in which scene, but blessedly with less detail).
Things I cannot stomach are not many. Mostly, I think it is time to talk about how Mr Jordan uses corporeal punishments because they are the ultimate answer to every trouble. If throughout the series you drank every time someone is being slapped on a bare butt, you’d need a liver transplant by now. And really - am I the only one disgusted here by the fact that corporeal punishment is the automatic go-to then something must be achieved be it by anyone, be it Darkfriends or Aes Sedai? To make matters worse, this revelling in being beaten turns the book into a weird BDSM party Aiel style (if we can imagine the Aiel to party hard).
I am also seething with frustrations that while Siuan has been restored only to fractional power after stilling those healed by Damer Flinn are restored fully (how convenient!) One good thing is that at least the limbic cord that kept Aviendha in the form of Elayne’s background is cut and so perhaps we will see Aviendha on her own again and not merely a trailing shadow (though her departure was as perplexing as her stay in Caemlyn). By the way, Elayne’s stupidity and lack of self-preservation are overwhelming once again. In any less forgiving fantasy world, she would already be dead several times. Not here. Alas.
It is difficult to juxtapose individual volumes - some are weaker, others more interesting. This one definitely belongs to the latter group. If you haven’t made it that far into The Wheel of Time yet, or if you are stuck somewhere around books 7 to 10 and if you are wondering whether to continue, I’d say: try because this volume shows it is worth the while.
Also in the series:
1. The Eye of the World ★★★★☆
2. The Great Hunt ★★★★☆
3. The Dragon Reborn ★★★★☆
4. The Shadow Rising ★★★★☆
5. The Fires of Heaven ★★★★☆
6. Lord of Chaos ★★★☆☆
7. A Crown of Swords ★★★☆☆
8. The Path of Daggers ★★★☆☆
9. Winter's Heart ★☆☆☆☆
10. Crossroads of Twilight ★★☆☆☆
12. The Gathering Storm ★★★★☆
13. Towers of Midnight ★★★☆☆
14. A Memory of Light ★★★☆☆
August 13, 2022
And this, fellow bookworms, concludes the series as penned by the original author! Man, did I tear up when listening to that interview with Robert Jordan that is at the end of my audiobook!
In many ways, this 11th volume is the culmination of at least the last three. All the "boring" bits have been the foundation for Faile finally getting away from her captors or Elayne securing the Lion Throne for herself or Mat getting married and helping his wife getting her rightful throne (back) or Rand ... let's not get too much into the details.
Let's just say that the Last Battle draws near as can be seen by buildings suddenly changing corridors and rooms amongst other things. Thus, it's time for the remaining factions to decide which side they are on. However, them being fueled and driven by self-interest is complicating matters.
And while Rand is battling to get to the Seanchan empress (or so he believes), Egwene is not only kept in the White Tower but physically chastised every day. That was actually my favorite part of this book: to see her embrace the pain, refusing to be embarrassed by the punishments, planting one seed after another for a rebellion against Elaida ... it was really something!
And then there was Perrin finally finding the location where Faile is held captive and gathering enough forces - I cheered once ! :D
Seriously, it was soooo rewarding to see Egwene's plan kinda coming to fruition. Of course, being captured hadn't been her plan, but I think that - all in all - it's working out quite well for her. Better than an actual battle Aes Sedai against Aes Sedai probably would have.
Equally rewarding was to see Perrin finally not just wandering around moping but getting some action. I'm still waiting for him to get his act together 100% but he's well on his way now that he could finally kill some people (who deserved it).
And my goodness was I sitting on the edge of my seat when !
Less nice was that Aviendah sorta just walked out of the story. I'm sure she'll return but considering how I'm cooling more and more towards Elayne (such a shame), I was sad to see it happen.
Truly tragic was the Ogier taking up arms (literally) and entering the fray. I knew it had to happen. I mean, what we're getting to is the FINAL battle. It's not named that for nothing. But while I don't love the Ogier as much as Tolkien's Ents, it sent a shiver down my spine with a sense of darkest foreboding.
Naturally, there was plenty to irk me, too. Not as if the writing was bad (plot holes or flat characterisations) but because I just want to see some people die. One in particular, as mentioned in the comments. Gawan usually is a close second, but at least here, he gave us one hell of a prologue when he was finally showing off his skills (so far, we had only heard of his skills but only ever seen him being an absolute idiot).
The necessary humour was provided by Mat once again - I had missed him being funny or just stumbling into situations that make the reader burst out in laughter. Though I have to admit that what Nynaeve did to her dear husband for his own good definitely was the icing on the cake. *cackles*
What was special about this book, apart from it being the last by Robert Jordan himself, was that it had some serious Star Wars and LOTR vibes. No bland copies but it was clear that the author was drawing on the same myths and tropes - but then twisting them to serve his vision of this series' world.
Now, I'm very curious to see if Sanderson is really able to mimick the tone of the story and keep both the world and the characters alive. I dearly hope so. This is either my new favorite installment or a close second and it would be heartbreaking to see the series not finishing strong. God, just to think how fans must have felt back in the day upon hearing of the author's death!
In many ways, this 11th volume is the culmination of at least the last three. All the "boring" bits have been the foundation for Faile finally getting away from her captors or Elayne securing the Lion Throne for herself or Mat getting married and helping his wife getting her rightful throne (back) or Rand ... let's not get too much into the details.
Let's just say that the Last Battle draws near as can be seen by buildings suddenly changing corridors and rooms amongst other things. Thus, it's time for the remaining factions to decide which side they are on. However, them being fueled and driven by self-interest is complicating matters.
And while Rand is battling to get to the Seanchan empress (or so he believes), Egwene is not only kept in the White Tower but physically chastised every day. That was actually my favorite part of this book: to see her embrace the pain, refusing to be embarrassed by the punishments, planting one seed after another for a rebellion against Elaida ... it was really something!
And then there was Perrin finally finding the location where Faile is held captive and gathering enough forces - I cheered once ! :D
Seriously, it was soooo rewarding to see Egwene's plan kinda coming to fruition. Of course, being captured hadn't been her plan, but I think that - all in all - it's working out quite well for her. Better than an actual battle Aes Sedai against Aes Sedai probably would have.
Equally rewarding was to see Perrin finally not just wandering around moping but getting some action. I'm still waiting for him to get his act together 100% but he's well on his way now that he could finally kill some people (who deserved it).
And my goodness was I sitting on the edge of my seat when !
Less nice was that Aviendah sorta just walked out of the story. I'm sure she'll return but considering how I'm cooling more and more towards Elayne (such a shame), I was sad to see it happen.
Truly tragic was the Ogier taking up arms (literally) and entering the fray. I knew it had to happen. I mean, what we're getting to is the FINAL battle. It's not named that for nothing. But while I don't love the Ogier as much as Tolkien's Ents, it sent a shiver down my spine with a sense of darkest foreboding.
Naturally, there was plenty to irk me, too. Not as if the writing was bad (plot holes or flat characterisations) but because I just want to see some people die. One in particular, as mentioned in the comments. Gawan usually is a close second, but at least here, he gave us one hell of a prologue when he was finally showing off his skills (so far, we had only heard of his skills but only ever seen him being an absolute idiot).
The necessary humour was provided by Mat once again - I had missed him being funny or just stumbling into situations that make the reader burst out in laughter. Though I have to admit that what Nynaeve did to her dear husband for his own good definitely was the icing on the cake. *cackles*
What was special about this book, apart from it being the last by Robert Jordan himself, was that it had some serious Star Wars and LOTR vibes. No bland copies but it was clear that the author was drawing on the same myths and tropes - but then twisting them to serve his vision of this series' world.
Now, I'm very curious to see if Sanderson is really able to mimick the tone of the story and keep both the world and the characters alive. I dearly hope so. This is either my new favorite installment or a close second and it would be heartbreaking to see the series not finishing strong. God, just to think how fans must have felt back in the day upon hearing of the author's death!
November 14, 2023
Knife of Dreams is truly an oddity. I think it’s a book split into two parts, with some featuring the best moments in the series and others featuring good moments but dragged on to the point where certain moments lost their impact. It’s also tougher to evaluate after the disaster that was Book 10 (and large sections of Books 8-9). The shortcomings of the series are still on full display, yet by the same token, so are the brilliant high points. If there’s one thing, I can concretely say I’m glad this was the conclusion for the many plot threads that remained pending in the series. It’s definitely a part of my top 4 (Books 4–6) of the series. In this review, I will describe the mostly good, some missed potential, and the bad.
In Conclusion, this is a brilliant book with some real shortcomings, so I cannot give it the 5 stars that I wished. But as a whole, it’s a true return to form, and I’m glad Jordan was able to deliver a truly great book after the disaster that was Book 10. I wish Jordan had finished his own vision, but what can you say at that point? I hope Sanderson can carry the torch in a meaningful way. I have numerous complaints about WoT, but there’s a lot of love at the same time. It’s easy to focus on the series shortcomings. I’m still glad I’ve partaken in this journey and am ready to see how Sanderson will deliver on Jordan's vision.
8.5/10
In Conclusion, this is a brilliant book with some real shortcomings, so I cannot give it the 5 stars that I wished. But as a whole, it’s a true return to form, and I’m glad Jordan was able to deliver a truly great book after the disaster that was Book 10. I wish Jordan had finished his own vision, but what can you say at that point? I hope Sanderson can carry the torch in a meaningful way. I have numerous complaints about WoT, but there’s a lot of love at the same time. It’s easy to focus on the series shortcomings. I’m still glad I’ve partaken in this journey and am ready to see how Sanderson will deliver on Jordan's vision.
Let the lord of chaos rule
8.5/10
September 12, 2023
Knife of Dreams isn't the ending but it is an ending, of sorts. It is the bittersweet final entry into the Wheel of Time series from Robert Jordan. Sweet because it may very well be his best novel in the series, at least in my top 3, and bitter because it was his last before he passed away too young. I had a hard time wanting to finish this book knowing I would never read a new word from him again, although I hear there are chapters and sections of the final 3 books that Brandon Sanderson finished that are exclusively Robert Jordan's writing. I just won't know which they are. Knife of Dreams was everything I could have hoped for after the plodding Crossroads of Twilight. Really, Jordan could've cut out 75% of that book and added the most relevant chapters to Knife of Dreams and it would've been much better.
This entry essentially wraps up all of the plot storylines that either begin at the end of Winter's Heart or progressed at a snail's pace in Crossroads of Twilight. I mean EVERY plot storyline. They all payoff in a wonderfully satisfying way and you can tell from the beginning that he meant business as Knife of Dreams doesn't have the typical slow burn that most of the Wheel of Time books have had. In the previous book, I was most annoyed with Elayne's slow crawl arc, Perrin's plight, and my favorite character Mat being stuck with the bumbling circus. All of those arcs are wrapped up better than expected and beyond in some cases. Some other long running arcs from nearly back in book 3 even come to an end!
Another joy that has returned is the fearsome Trolloc/Myrddraal attack! I feel like there hasn't been one in about six books when these used to be a common occurrence in the first four books at least. It actually serves to show how far our characters have progressed in their powers. When I think back to when all of the Two Rivers characters set out, it's truly amazing to read their growth and development. I was astonished to read somewhere that only a year and a half or so has passed since The Eye of the World as it seems like surely it's been 10 years. The most obvious examples are Rand, who is a completely different person and so powerful, and Egwene/Elayne/Nynaeve. The latter of which isn't nearly as annoying as petulant as the earlier books when she was my most hated character. Part of that is less page time but she's also grown quite a bit. Also, I get the sense that Cadsuane is a divisive character among the fandom, but I love every time she's there and get a thrill when she encounters other characters for the first time.
Jordan was on a mission with this book and it shows in it's pacing. It very much felt like the shorter New Spring in terms of how the plot kept moving and he wouldn't let my interest drop. I can't say Knife of Dreams has the epic final act like Winter's Heart or Lord of Chaos, but he wraps up all of the threads with heart pounding finales in the last 25% while adding momentous reveals and comeuppances for certain villains that made me smile. Also, I just want to say... Thom's Letter... yeah... I think I might have uttered some weird sound of excitement. If I was more emotional, I might have cried. The possibilities have me on the edge of my seat for what's to come.
And so, it's time for me to move on to the final 3 books, the Brandon Sanderson entries. I love him as an author, but I'll admit I'm a bit worried since this wasn't his original work. I mean, there's no better author to bring in for the finale of a book or series given his Sanderlanches he is so famous for, but I will dearly miss Robert Jordan. I'll miss his own style of endings, his strong characterization, his painstaking attention to detail on that flower pot sitting on that mantle above the polished fireplace, and yeah, even his annoying Jordan-isms I'll miss like braid-tugging. He went too soon and it's extremely sad he didn't get to finish his epic work. However, Robert Jordan left behind a wonderful legacy and made a mark on the epic fantasy genre that will never be forgotten. As I said in the beginning of this review, Knife of Dreams isn't the ending but it is an ending.
The Wheel of Time
The Eye of the World - 8/10
The Great Hunt - 9.5/10
The Dragon Reborn - 8.5/10
The Shadow Rising - 10/10
The Fires of Heaven - 10/10
Lord of Chaos - 10/10
A Crown of Swords - 9.5/10
The Path of Daggers - 10/10
Winter's Heart - 10/10
Crossroads of Twilight - 7/10
Knife of Dreams - 10/10
The Gathering Storm - 10/10
Towers of Midnight - 10/10
A Memory of Light - 10/10
This entry essentially wraps up all of the plot storylines that either begin at the end of Winter's Heart or progressed at a snail's pace in Crossroads of Twilight. I mean EVERY plot storyline. They all payoff in a wonderfully satisfying way and you can tell from the beginning that he meant business as Knife of Dreams doesn't have the typical slow burn that most of the Wheel of Time books have had. In the previous book, I was most annoyed with Elayne's slow crawl arc, Perrin's plight, and my favorite character Mat being stuck with the bumbling circus. All of those arcs are wrapped up better than expected and beyond in some cases. Some other long running arcs from nearly back in book 3 even come to an end!
Another joy that has returned is the fearsome Trolloc/Myrddraal attack! I feel like there hasn't been one in about six books when these used to be a common occurrence in the first four books at least. It actually serves to show how far our characters have progressed in their powers. When I think back to when all of the Two Rivers characters set out, it's truly amazing to read their growth and development. I was astonished to read somewhere that only a year and a half or so has passed since The Eye of the World as it seems like surely it's been 10 years. The most obvious examples are Rand, who is a completely different person and so powerful, and Egwene/Elayne/Nynaeve. The latter of which isn't nearly as annoying as petulant as the earlier books when she was my most hated character. Part of that is less page time but she's also grown quite a bit. Also, I get the sense that Cadsuane is a divisive character among the fandom, but I love every time she's there and get a thrill when she encounters other characters for the first time.
Jordan was on a mission with this book and it shows in it's pacing. It very much felt like the shorter New Spring in terms of how the plot kept moving and he wouldn't let my interest drop. I can't say Knife of Dreams has the epic final act like Winter's Heart or Lord of Chaos, but he wraps up all of the threads with heart pounding finales in the last 25% while adding momentous reveals and comeuppances for certain villains that made me smile. Also, I just want to say... Thom's Letter... yeah... I think I might have uttered some weird sound of excitement. If I was more emotional, I might have cried. The possibilities have me on the edge of my seat for what's to come.
And so, it's time for me to move on to the final 3 books, the Brandon Sanderson entries. I love him as an author, but I'll admit I'm a bit worried since this wasn't his original work. I mean, there's no better author to bring in for the finale of a book or series given his Sanderlanches he is so famous for, but I will dearly miss Robert Jordan. I'll miss his own style of endings, his strong characterization, his painstaking attention to detail on that flower pot sitting on that mantle above the polished fireplace, and yeah, even his annoying Jordan-isms I'll miss like braid-tugging. He went too soon and it's extremely sad he didn't get to finish his epic work. However, Robert Jordan left behind a wonderful legacy and made a mark on the epic fantasy genre that will never be forgotten. As I said in the beginning of this review, Knife of Dreams isn't the ending but it is an ending.
The Wheel of Time
The Eye of the World - 8/10
The Great Hunt - 9.5/10
The Dragon Reborn - 8.5/10
The Shadow Rising - 10/10
The Fires of Heaven - 10/10
Lord of Chaos - 10/10
A Crown of Swords - 9.5/10
The Path of Daggers - 10/10
Winter's Heart - 10/10
Crossroads of Twilight - 7/10
Knife of Dreams - 10/10
The Gathering Storm - 10/10
Towers of Midnight - 10/10
A Memory of Light - 10/10
August 12, 2022
I can't believe we're finally here. The end of RJ's original series. I can tell you I was so devastated to hear about his death back in the day. It wasn't just a favorite author dying, of course. It was the fact that the story hadn't been completed that destroyed me. I mean, I'm a selfish reader, after all. This series was something that would be lodged in my imagination forever.
So, even though I was feeling sadness upon reading this particular book, I still had a truly great time with it. I don't consider this one to be one of the "slogs" at all. In fact, I was chomping at the bit about Perrin's big battle to finally get Faile back. I was at the edge of my seat with Rand and the dire crap he was just put through. And of what he lost.
And then there was Egwene. We finally get to the point where she truly shines. Back in the White Tower, the kinds of trails she goes through, her laughter, and the way she slays all the other ajahs -- metaphorically. Laying seeds of doubt, showing off, subverting everything. Muahahaha, I loooooved it. There will be more, of course, with the concluding novels, but this setup was so delicious.
And then there is Matt. The Toy. Or, as a now newly flustered Tuon, has been forced to wonder what she got herself into, has been forced to rename him: -- The Lion -- he's showing all his different colors again. I've been laughing my ass off with their interactions. Matt being back with the Band and being a real man again, instead of a toy, has made all those dice finally stop. And I'm HERE for it. I laughed until I cried. And I cried.
I looooved it so much.
And yet, it's tinged with so much sadness, too.
So, even though I was feeling sadness upon reading this particular book, I still had a truly great time with it. I don't consider this one to be one of the "slogs" at all. In fact, I was chomping at the bit about Perrin's big battle to finally get Faile back. I was at the edge of my seat with Rand and the dire crap he was just put through. And of what he lost.
And then there was Egwene. We finally get to the point where she truly shines. Back in the White Tower, the kinds of trails she goes through, her laughter, and the way she slays all the other ajahs -- metaphorically. Laying seeds of doubt, showing off, subverting everything. Muahahaha, I loooooved it. There will be more, of course, with the concluding novels, but this setup was so delicious.
And then there is Matt. The Toy. Or, as a now newly flustered Tuon, has been forced to wonder what she got herself into, has been forced to rename him: -- The Lion -- he's showing all his different colors again. I've been laughing my ass off with their interactions. Matt being back with the Band and being a real man again, instead of a toy, has made all those dice finally stop. And I'm HERE for it. I laughed until I cried. And I cried.
I looooved it so much.
And yet, it's tinged with so much sadness, too.
April 6, 2021
Knife of Dreams is book number eleven in the Wheel of Time series. This is the last book Robert Jordan has written in the series before passing away. While Knife of Dreams is a huge improvement over the last two books, unfortunately, it still does not match the greatness and awesomeness of the first seven books in the series. I feel this book still suffered from pace issues. Sometimes the events were too slow and not moving and other times things were fast and events unraveling at a much quicker pace.
Like all the previous books in the series, there are multiple POVs. Not all the POVs were interesting. I honestly did not enjoy the POVs of the side characters. I feel they were slowing the book for me. Out of the main characters surprisingly I found Egwene’s story in Tar Valon to top the list for me. Egwene in this book proves that she is destined to be the Amyrlin Seat. I feel every reader will root for her. I just loved her patience and willpower. There is a lot of suspense and thrill to her story. I just wish it was longer than it was. Her story is part of the prologue and in chapter 24 which in my opinion is the strongest chapter in the book.
Surprisingly Nynaeve’s POV is almost missing and she has a brief appearance only. After Egwene, Rand’s POV was the second favorite. It is more in length than Egwene’s but less compared to the others. Elayne’s part in the first half of the book was not that interesting to me but it picks up in the second part.
“Logic is always applicable to the real world,” Miyasi said dismissively, “but only a novice would think the real world can be applied to logic. Ideals must be first principles. Not the mundane world.”
Finally, Faile is rescued by her husband! This side story has been pending for eternity! It was time to be done with it. Galina thinks she did a clever thing but then she realizes that her slavery to the Shaido has not ended. Matrim has the maximum footage in this book and the prophecy of him getting married to Tuon, the Daughter of the Nine Moons will be fulfilled. I can’t say I was a big fan of his story though. It was OK most of the time.
It is unfortunate that Robert Jordan could not complete the series but those who finished reading the series say that Brandon Sanderson has done an amazing job with the last three books. I loved Sanderson’s Mistborn trilogy and looking forward to seeing how he wrapped up this epic series.
“A woman's love can be violent. Sometimes they hurt a man worse than they think they have, worse than they mean to. Sometimes, they're even sorry afterwards.”
Like all the previous books in the series, there are multiple POVs. Not all the POVs were interesting. I honestly did not enjoy the POVs of the side characters. I feel they were slowing the book for me. Out of the main characters surprisingly I found Egwene’s story in Tar Valon to top the list for me. Egwene in this book proves that she is destined to be the Amyrlin Seat. I feel every reader will root for her. I just loved her patience and willpower. There is a lot of suspense and thrill to her story. I just wish it was longer than it was. Her story is part of the prologue and in chapter 24 which in my opinion is the strongest chapter in the book.
Surprisingly Nynaeve’s POV is almost missing and she has a brief appearance only. After Egwene, Rand’s POV was the second favorite. It is more in length than Egwene’s but less compared to the others. Elayne’s part in the first half of the book was not that interesting to me but it picks up in the second part.
“Logic is always applicable to the real world,” Miyasi said dismissively, “but only a novice would think the real world can be applied to logic. Ideals must be first principles. Not the mundane world.”
Finally, Faile is rescued by her husband! This side story has been pending for eternity! It was time to be done with it. Galina thinks she did a clever thing but then she realizes that her slavery to the Shaido has not ended. Matrim has the maximum footage in this book and the prophecy of him getting married to Tuon, the Daughter of the Nine Moons will be fulfilled. I can’t say I was a big fan of his story though. It was OK most of the time.
It is unfortunate that Robert Jordan could not complete the series but those who finished reading the series say that Brandon Sanderson has done an amazing job with the last three books. I loved Sanderson’s Mistborn trilogy and looking forward to seeing how he wrapped up this epic series.
“A woman's love can be violent. Sometimes they hurt a man worse than they think they have, worse than they mean to. Sometimes, they're even sorry afterwards.”
February 9, 2017
4.5 Stars
Wheel of Time in all its glory and Robert Jordan back to his best!
Action packed and full of excitement, this book starts tying up all the plot-lines that have been meandering throughout the last few books. Highlights include:
Spoilers!
Wheel of Time in all its glory and Robert Jordan back to his best!
Action packed and full of excitement, this book starts tying up all the plot-lines that have been meandering throughout the last few books. Highlights include:
Spoilers!
March 27, 2018
I'm glad the last book Robert Jordan wrote was such a huge step up in quality from the ones before it. Seems like he was ready to get down to business finally. No matter what you think of him as a writer, I don't think anyone can deny that it was a tragedy for him to die before he could finish out this thing that he'd been working on for so long, and so close to the end. I hope he knew his story had been left in safe hands (his widow—who was also his longtime editor—picked Brandon Sanderson to finish it out from his notes, but I believe she might have made that decision after RJ had already died; feel free to correct me if I'm wrong about that).
So after much waffling about, most egregiously in book ten, Crossroads of Twilight (a book in which absolutely nothing of import occurs), things finally start to happen. Rand doesn't get much showcase here (you know, most of the time, I feel like Jordan really didn't know what to do with rand as a character), but he's trying to make an alliance with the Seanchan happen, and ends up having a confrontation with one of the Forsaken instead. Egwene finally gets here due. I have to tell you, her storyline is the most excited and emotionally engaged I've been in this series since probably about book five. I don't even normally like Aes Sedai machinations, but I loved seeing her insinuate herself into the White Tower as their prisoner all the while refusing to stop viewing herself as the true Amyrlin, and gaining the trust and respect of the sisters in the Tower bit by bit, eroding Elaida's base of power. But she really only gets a couple of chapters. This is Mat's book (and unfortunately, Perrin's; the less said about the ending of that endless storyline he's been mired in the better).
Mat is leading a group in escape from Ebou Dar, and he's got his future bride Tuon in tow, the Daughter of the Nine Moons aka the heir to the Seanchan Empire. Both of them know the other will be their spouse, because prophecy, but neither is aware that the other knows. Once I accepted that theirs was going to be yet another romance built on the foundations of antagonism, I found their storyline entertaining. I thought Mat acquitted himself well, although I still wish Jordan would stop with all the gender essentialism. Mat especially has a tendency to lump all women into categories as if they are a different species. And I simultaneously like and dislike Tuon. I enjoy her playful attitude, but I abhor her self-entitled attitude, and her blind insistence on her culture's deplorable traditions (particularly the ones based on enslaving people in various ways, and dehumanizing them). I also hated the way she tried to play games with Mat. Her goal was to maneuver him, not fall in love with him, whereas he's basically head over heels for her at this point, the poor guy. It was satisfying watching him upend her assumptions about him as a person, but I'm really ready for her to get a couple of comeuppances before I can fully like her.
I still have the same problems with this series that I always have (see my other reviews for this series if you want more details; I really don't feel like going into them all again here). But I was so relieved to be feeling positive emotions again relating to this series while reading Knife of Dreams that I think a lot of my critical brain just went offline for a while.
It's taken me three years to get this far in the series, and I'm so glad to have made it this far, even if large portions of my reading experience have been frustrating. I've actually been reading a lot of Wheel of Time content online from major fans of the series, and while my experience is definitely not theirs, I still find it really enjoyable to see people talking so passionately and intelligently about WOT. Tor.com particularly has a lot of good coverage, including multiple re-reads written by Leigh Butler, and a first-time reader's experience that just started up last month, written by Kelsey Jefferson Bennett.
But I will not lie when I say I am mostly excited to have gotten this far because I can't wait to see what Brandon Sanderson can do with this story and these characters, as I've historically responded really well to his whole thing as an author.
So after much waffling about, most egregiously in book ten, Crossroads of Twilight (a book in which absolutely nothing of import occurs), things finally start to happen. Rand doesn't get much showcase here (you know, most of the time, I feel like Jordan really didn't know what to do with rand as a character), but he's trying to make an alliance with the Seanchan happen, and ends up having a confrontation with one of the Forsaken instead. Egwene finally gets here due. I have to tell you, her storyline is the most excited and emotionally engaged I've been in this series since probably about book five. I don't even normally like Aes Sedai machinations, but I loved seeing her insinuate herself into the White Tower as their prisoner all the while refusing to stop viewing herself as the true Amyrlin, and gaining the trust and respect of the sisters in the Tower bit by bit, eroding Elaida's base of power. But she really only gets a couple of chapters. This is Mat's book (and unfortunately, Perrin's; the less said about the ending of that endless storyline he's been mired in the better).
Mat is leading a group in escape from Ebou Dar, and he's got his future bride Tuon in tow, the Daughter of the Nine Moons aka the heir to the Seanchan Empire. Both of them know the other will be their spouse, because prophecy, but neither is aware that the other knows. Once I accepted that theirs was going to be yet another romance built on the foundations of antagonism, I found their storyline entertaining. I thought Mat acquitted himself well, although I still wish Jordan would stop with all the gender essentialism. Mat especially has a tendency to lump all women into categories as if they are a different species. And I simultaneously like and dislike Tuon. I enjoy her playful attitude, but I abhor her self-entitled attitude, and her blind insistence on her culture's deplorable traditions (particularly the ones based on enslaving people in various ways, and dehumanizing them). I also hated the way she tried to play games with Mat. Her goal was to maneuver him, not fall in love with him, whereas he's basically head over heels for her at this point, the poor guy. It was satisfying watching him upend her assumptions about him as a person, but I'm really ready for her to get a couple of comeuppances before I can fully like her.
I still have the same problems with this series that I always have (see my other reviews for this series if you want more details; I really don't feel like going into them all again here). But I was so relieved to be feeling positive emotions again relating to this series while reading Knife of Dreams that I think a lot of my critical brain just went offline for a while.
It's taken me three years to get this far in the series, and I'm so glad to have made it this far, even if large portions of my reading experience have been frustrating. I've actually been reading a lot of Wheel of Time content online from major fans of the series, and while my experience is definitely not theirs, I still find it really enjoyable to see people talking so passionately and intelligently about WOT. Tor.com particularly has a lot of good coverage, including multiple re-reads written by Leigh Butler, and a first-time reader's experience that just started up last month, written by Kelsey Jefferson Bennett.
But I will not lie when I say I am mostly excited to have gotten this far because I can't wait to see what Brandon Sanderson can do with this story and these characters, as I've historically responded really well to his whole thing as an author.
June 12, 2022
I’m involved enough in this series to keep plugging along with it, but I have big frustrations with it. For one thing, there are SO MANY story lines and characters. This would be fine if the plot moved along in a spritely fashion, but it really doesn't. I wade through pages and pages, with only tiny plot progress. I wish Jordan would just get on with it. Instead, he tells us what every darned noble is wearing, exactly what everyone is eating, and any other darned detail he can imagine, bogging down the flow of the action. Honestly, details of tea, wine, and what kind of cups it is served in? Every darn time?
My other major complaint is one that I think I moan about in every review that I write: the relations between men and women. I mean, Mat Cauthon is one of my favourite characters, but his ideas about what motivates women, or his convictions that he cannot possibly understand women, drive me nuts! For fucks sake, we are humans! We want the same things men want! Robert Jordan, I want to shake you until your teeth rattle! (Would that make me an Aes Sedai? That seems to be one of their moves!) It's no better from the female point of view—all the women seem to think men are thick as bricks, unable to cope without female guidance. This is also bullshit and makes my blood pressure rise.
And yet, I want to know what happens in this long, drawn out series. Having struggled my way to book eleven, I think I will eventually conquer it. Now I must hope that the ending isn't a complete let down (and I realize that Jordan didn't write the conclusion, but please tell me that he left notes or an outline of how he intended things to go). In the meantime, I have to say this was one of the better books in the series. Rand isn't being a complete a-hole, although one wonders how trustworthy his Asha'man are. Elayne gets her hold on Andor, without Rand's intervention. Go, Elayne! We learn that Lan is much more than we have been led to believe (and that Nynaeve is more pragmatic that I would have given her credit for). Both Mat and Perrin make arrangements with the Seanchan that would have been unthinkable just in the last volume, but which lead to success. And my favourite part, Egwene has more moxie than all the other Aes Sedai combined! Go, Egwene! Elaida won't know what hit her!
Book Number 459 of my Science Fiction and Fantasy Reading Project
My other major complaint is one that I think I moan about in every review that I write: the relations between men and women. I mean, Mat Cauthon is one of my favourite characters, but his ideas about what motivates women, or his convictions that he cannot possibly understand women, drive me nuts! For fucks sake, we are humans! We want the same things men want! Robert Jordan, I want to shake you until your teeth rattle! (Would that make me an Aes Sedai? That seems to be one of their moves!) It's no better from the female point of view—all the women seem to think men are thick as bricks, unable to cope without female guidance. This is also bullshit and makes my blood pressure rise.
And yet, I want to know what happens in this long, drawn out series. Having struggled my way to book eleven, I think I will eventually conquer it. Now I must hope that the ending isn't a complete let down (and I realize that Jordan didn't write the conclusion, but please tell me that he left notes or an outline of how he intended things to go). In the meantime, I have to say this was one of the better books in the series. Rand isn't being a complete a-hole, although one wonders how trustworthy his Asha'man are. Elayne gets her hold on Andor, without Rand's intervention. Go, Elayne! We learn that Lan is much more than we have been led to believe (and that Nynaeve is more pragmatic that I would have given her credit for). Both Mat and Perrin make arrangements with the Seanchan that would have been unthinkable just in the last volume, but which lead to success. And my favourite part, Egwene has more moxie than all the other Aes Sedai combined! Go, Egwene! Elaida won't know what hit her!
Book Number 459 of my Science Fiction and Fantasy Reading Project
July 15, 2021
9.5/10
Best WoT book so far. So much to think about. Will write a longer review soon.
Best WoT book so far. So much to think about. Will write a longer review soon.
August 15, 2024
The eleventh book of the series, the last one written exclusively by Robert Jordan before waking up from the dream. Unlike the previous part that was somewhat subdued, without much action and decisive developments, in this the action is continuous and leads to the resolve of many of the issues that we have been dealing with so far. Battles unfold on all fronts and most of our heroes are involved, testing their abilities and courage. These battles, of course, the writer describes them in his well-known overwhelming way that carries to us the intensity of the conflict and the inner tension of the protagonists. There are, of course, also some different kinds of battles, equally difficult and equally important, to win people's hearts and create alliances that are necessary for the new challenges and the final battle that seems to be too close. This is how most accounts close and the only one left in the other three books is the head-on confrontation with the shadow.
All this are in a highly exciting book that overwhelms the reader with its action without departing from the virtues that made us love this series, like this continuous dive into the thoughts and feelings of the protagonists that sometimes makes us laugh, others to be moved and to sympathise with their difficulties and in general to have a complete emotional experience through reading hundreds of pages. The latter is also the author's great contribution to the genre as it is the main feature of many of the works that followed. This enormous contribution and in good is remember it reading this book, which is the end of a great writing journey.
Ενδέκατο βιβλίο της σειράς, το τελευταίο που έγραψε αποκλειστικά ο Robert Jordan πριν ξυπνήσει από το όνειρο. Σε αντίθεση με το προηγούμενο μέρος που ήταν κάπως υποτονικό, χωρίς πολλή δράση και καθοριστικές εξελίξεις, σε αυτό η δράση είναι συνεχής και οδηγεί στην λύση πολλά από τα ζητήματα που μας απασχολούσαν ως τώρα. Μάχες εκτυλίσσονται σε όλα τα μέτωπα και σε αυτές εμπλέκονται οι περισσότεροι από τους ήρωες μας, δοκιμάζοντας τις ικανότητές τους και το θάρρος τους. Αυτές τις μάχες, φυσικά, ο συγγραφέας τις περιγράφει με τον γνωστό του καθηλωτικό τρόπο που μεταφέρει την ένταση της σύγκρουσης αλλά και την εσωτερική ένταση των πρωταγωνιστών. Υπάρχουν, βέβαια, και διαφορετικού είδους μάχες, εξίσου δύσκολες και εξίσου σημαντικές, για να κερδηθούν οι καρδιές των ανθρώπων και να δημιουργηθούν οι συμμαχίες που είναι απαραίτητες απέναντι στις νέες προκλήσεις και στην τελική μάχη που φαίνεται να είναι πάρα πολύ κοντά. Κάπως έτσι οι περισσότεροι λογαριασμοί κλείνουν και το μόνο του μένει στα υπόλοιπα τρία βιβλία είναι η κατά μέτωπο αναμέτρηση με την σκιά.
Όλα αυτά σε ένα άκρως συναρπαστικό βιβλίο που σε καθηλώνει με τη δράση του χωρίς όμως να απομακρύνεται από τις αρετές που μας έκαναν να αγαπήσουμε αυτή τη σειρά, όπως αυτό το συνεχόμενο βύθισμα στις σκέψεις και τα συναισθήματα των πρωταγωνιστών που μας κάνει μερικές φορές να γελάμε, άλλες να συγκινούμαστε και να συμπάσχουμε με τις δυσκολίες τους και γενικότερα να έχουμε μία ολοκληρωμένη συναισθηματική εμπειρία μέσα από την ανάγνωση τόσων εκατοντάδων σελίδων. Το τελευταίο είναι και η μεγάλη συνεισφορά του συγγραφέα στο είδος καθώς είναι το κύριο χαρακτηριστικό πολλών από τα έργα που ακολούθησαν. Αυτήν την τεράστια συνεισφορά του καλό είναι να θυμόμαστε διαβάζοντας αυτό το βιβλίο, που αποτελεί το τελείωμα μίας σπουδαίας συγγραφικής πορείας.
All this are in a highly exciting book that overwhelms the reader with its action without departing from the virtues that made us love this series, like this continuous dive into the thoughts and feelings of the protagonists that sometimes makes us laugh, others to be moved and to sympathise with their difficulties and in general to have a complete emotional experience through reading hundreds of pages. The latter is also the author's great contribution to the genre as it is the main feature of many of the works that followed. This enormous contribution and in good is remember it reading this book, which is the end of a great writing journey.
Ενδέκατο βιβλίο της σειράς, το τελευταίο που έγραψε αποκλειστικά ο Robert Jordan πριν ξυπνήσει από το όνειρο. Σε αντίθεση με το προηγούμενο μέρος που ήταν κάπως υποτονικό, χωρίς πολλή δράση και καθοριστικές εξελίξεις, σε αυτό η δράση είναι συνεχής και οδηγεί στην λύση πολλά από τα ζητήματα που μας απασχολούσαν ως τώρα. Μάχες εκτυλίσσονται σε όλα τα μέτωπα και σε αυτές εμπλέκονται οι περισσότεροι από τους ήρωες μας, δοκιμάζοντας τις ικανότητές τους και το θάρρος τους. Αυτές τις μάχες, φυσικά, ο συγγραφέας τις περιγράφει με τον γνωστό του καθηλωτικό τρόπο που μεταφέρει την ένταση της σύγκρουσης αλλά και την εσωτερική ένταση των πρωταγωνιστών. Υπάρχουν, βέβαια, και διαφορετικού είδους μάχες, εξίσου δύσκολες και εξίσου σημαντικές, για να κερδηθούν οι καρδιές των ανθρώπων και να δημιουργηθούν οι συμμαχίες που είναι απαραίτητες απέναντι στις νέες προκλήσεις και στην τελική μάχη που φαίνεται να είναι πάρα πολύ κοντά. Κάπως έτσι οι περισσότεροι λογαριασμοί κλείνουν και το μόνο του μένει στα υπόλοιπα τρία βιβλία είναι η κατά μέτωπο αναμέτρηση με την σκιά.
Όλα αυτά σε ένα άκρως συναρπαστικό βιβλίο που σε καθηλώνει με τη δράση του χωρίς όμως να απομακρύνεται από τις αρετές που μας έκαναν να αγαπήσουμε αυτή τη σειρά, όπως αυτό το συνεχόμενο βύθισμα στις σκέψεις και τα συναισθήματα των πρωταγωνιστών που μας κάνει μερικές φορές να γελάμε, άλλες να συγκινούμαστε και να συμπάσχουμε με τις δυσκολίες τους και γενικότερα να έχουμε μία ολοκληρωμένη συναισθηματική εμπειρία μέσα από την ανάγνωση τόσων εκατοντάδων σελίδων. Το τελευταίο είναι και η μεγάλη συνεισφορά του συγγραφέα στο είδος καθώς είναι το κύριο χαρακτηριστικό πολλών από τα έργα που ακολούθησαν. Αυτήν την τεράστια συνεισφορά του καλό είναι να θυμόμαστε διαβάζοντας αυτό το βιβλίο, που αποτελεί το τελείωμα μίας σπουδαίας συγγραφικής πορείας.
November 29, 2020
This was the last book in the Wheel of Time series written by Robert Jordan before he passed away. It is one of the more popular in the series and is, overall, a great addition.
First let's do a brief synopsis of the plot:
Tarmon Gai'don is coming and events are leading to a final conclusion:
Mat has led his band to kill Tuon of the Seanchan and ends up marrying her, thus becoming the "Prince of Ravens"
Rand ends up in conflict with a huge Trolloc army and runs into Semirhage and loses his hand
Perrin manages to rescue his wife, Faile and destroy the Shaido threat.
Egwyne is in the White Tower sowing discontent about Elida's rule
Loial is married now but still wants to help humans
That's about the basics without spoilers. So a couple of things:
I realize that this is a major work of fantasy and, for the most part I enjoyed it. But, there is just something about the characters of this story that are off putting to me. For such a "dark" story there is an underlying YA childishness about the events that irritates the hell out of me. These people, the heroes nor the villains are particularly scary. From sophomoric things like paddling people, to the way the men and women talk and react to each other-the inherent childishness of it detracts from the seriousness of the story. Yes there are battles and some people die (never anyone important I am starting to realize), but seriously? For example their torture seems to be paddling people (I am not making this up) and then healing them...oohhhhh scary. I mean seriously? The Dark Lord must REALLY be hard up for followers if this is the best his Black Ajah can do. Not to mention Jordan's overly descriptive prose which begins to drag on and on.
I nearly DNFd this book, but after a several month break I finished the story. Perhaps Brandon Sanderson will do a better job. I loved the world building and I think he has a great story and concept. But for the love of God, or the Dark Lord, please add some more adult actions. NO more paddling, no more giggling, no more pinching, etc. We are not 12. ALso the romance in this book is trite, boring and really hard to believe. These people are NOT scary in the least and that is a shame. Adults acting like children do not garner my respect.
That being said, in retrospect, this is a solid series and great work of imagination. Some people LOVE this series. I am not one of them, but I do appreciate it for the world building and the story, sadly the actions of the characters makes it seem sophomoric and this makes me not place it among my favorite fantasy series. Other may disagree but that's just how I feel.
First let's do a brief synopsis of the plot:
Tarmon Gai'don is coming and events are leading to a final conclusion:
Mat has led his band to kill Tuon of the Seanchan and ends up marrying her, thus becoming the "Prince of Ravens"
Rand ends up in conflict with a huge Trolloc army and runs into Semirhage and loses his hand
Perrin manages to rescue his wife, Faile and destroy the Shaido threat.
Egwyne is in the White Tower sowing discontent about Elida's rule
Loial is married now but still wants to help humans
That's about the basics without spoilers. So a couple of things:
I realize that this is a major work of fantasy and, for the most part I enjoyed it. But, there is just something about the characters of this story that are off putting to me. For such a "dark" story there is an underlying YA childishness about the events that irritates the hell out of me. These people, the heroes nor the villains are particularly scary. From sophomoric things like paddling people, to the way the men and women talk and react to each other-the inherent childishness of it detracts from the seriousness of the story. Yes there are battles and some people die (never anyone important I am starting to realize), but seriously? For example their torture seems to be paddling people (I am not making this up) and then healing them...oohhhhh scary. I mean seriously? The Dark Lord must REALLY be hard up for followers if this is the best his Black Ajah can do. Not to mention Jordan's overly descriptive prose which begins to drag on and on.
I nearly DNFd this book, but after a several month break I finished the story. Perhaps Brandon Sanderson will do a better job. I loved the world building and I think he has a great story and concept. But for the love of God, or the Dark Lord, please add some more adult actions. NO more paddling, no more giggling, no more pinching, etc. We are not 12. ALso the romance in this book is trite, boring and really hard to believe. These people are NOT scary in the least and that is a shame. Adults acting like children do not garner my respect.
That being said, in retrospect, this is a solid series and great work of imagination. Some people LOVE this series. I am not one of them, but I do appreciate it for the world building and the story, sadly the actions of the characters makes it seem sophomoric and this makes me not place it among my favorite fantasy series. Other may disagree but that's just how I feel.
November 17, 2019
Every time I read this series I love this particular book more and more. There’s so much going on and the pace is constant!!! LOVE IT!!!
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