Hey bookworms, are you ready to dive into one of the most epic fantasy series of all time? We're talking about The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan (and finished by Brandon Sanderson). This series is a behemoth, a true classic, and can be a little intimidating to get into. That's why we're going to break down the Wheel of Time books in order to make your journey through the Two Rivers, the White Tower, and beyond as smooth as possible. Trust me, it's worth it! This guide will help you navigate the series, understand the reading order, and prepare you for a fantastical adventure.

Starting The Wheel of Time series is like stepping into another world, a rich tapestry woven with intricate plots, diverse characters, and a magic system that's both complex and captivating. For those unfamiliar with the series, it follows Rand al'Thor and his friends from the Two Rivers as they learn they are ta'veren, individuals who are woven into the Wheel of Time, and are destined to face the Dark One in the Last Battle. As they navigate their destinies, the story broadens to include many other characters, from Aes Sedai to Aiel warriors, each playing a crucial role in the unfolding saga. The depth of the world-building, the evolution of the characters, and the sheer scope of the story make it a rewarding experience for any fantasy lover. The series’ influence on the fantasy genre is undeniable, inspiring countless authors and shaping the landscape of modern fantasy literature. Many fans of fantasy often cite the series as one of their favorites, highlighting its compelling narrative and unforgettable characters. This guide is designed to provide you with the essential information you need to begin your journey, ensuring you don't miss out on any crucial details or plot points.

The Wheel of Time Books in Order: The Main Series

Alright, let’s get down to business. The core of your reading experience will be the main series, comprising fourteen books. It's essential to read these Wheel of Time books in the correct order to fully appreciate the story's development. Here's the chronological order you need:

1. The Eye of the World (1990): This is where it all begins! We meet Rand al'Thor, Mat Cauthon, Perrin Aybara, and Egwene al'Vere as they're thrust into a world of magic, prophecy, and danger. This book is the foundation, introducing us to the world and its key players. It sets the stage for the epic journey that awaits.
2. The Great Hunt (1990): The story deepens as the characters are scattered and the stakes rise. This book introduces the Horn of Valere and the hunt for the Dark One's power.
3. The Dragon Reborn (1991): Rand struggles with his destiny as the Dragon Reborn. This book is about his escape, hiding and finding himself as a leader.
4. The Shadow Rising (1992): The characters begin to discover more of the world. Rand will be tested by the Aiel and the Dark One. The character development of Mat is outstanding in this book.
5. The Fires of Heaven (1993): The conflict with the Seanchan begins. Many characters encounter new obstacles and new friends or foes.
6. Lord of Chaos (1994): The Aes Sedai attempts to regain control of Rand. The world continues to plunge into chaos, with the main characters facing seemingly insurmountable challenges.
7. A Crown of Swords (1996): Rand continues to consolidate his power and faces more adversaries, and some very personal ones. The story's scope expands, and the conflicts become more complex.
8. The Path of Daggers (1998): The conflict intensifies, with the forces of Light and Shadow clashing on multiple fronts. Many plots converge as the Last Battle approaches.
9. Winter's Heart (2000): A turning point in the series. Some of the most epic and important actions occur. Rand faces his greatest challenge, and the stakes are higher than ever before.
10. Crossroads of Twilight (2003): This is one of the slower books. It sets the stage for the final act of the series. The characters regroup and make their next moves.
11. Knife of Dreams (2005): The action picks up pace. All the plots converge and the characters are ready to attack in the Last Battle.
12. The Gathering Storm (2009): The first book completed by Brandon Sanderson after Robert Jordan's death. Rand's character arc makes a huge leap.
13. Towers of Midnight (2010): Sanderson continues the final act. Many characters are ready to fight the Last Battle.
14. A Memory of Light (2013): The epic conclusion of The Wheel of Time. The Last Battle has arrived! This book brings all the plot lines together. This is a must-read for any fan of the series.

Reading these books in order is crucial to understanding the character development and the overall narrative arc. Each book builds on the previous one, so skipping around can lead to confusion and spoil major plot points. Trust me, it’s worth the journey from start to finish.

Prequel and Companion Books

While the main series is the heart of the Wheel of Time experience, there are also some prequel and companion books that can enrich your understanding of the world. Let’s take a look:

• New Spring (2004): This is a prequel novella that tells the story of Moiraine Damodred and Lan Mandragoran before the events of The Eye of the World. It offers valuable insight into their characters and their relationship and can be read at any point after finishing the first book. Many fans choose to read it after The Eye of the World to dive deeper into the world of Aes Sedai and the early years of Lan and Moiraine's relationship. The novella adds layers to the main story.

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• The World of Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time (1998): This is an encyclopedia-style companion book that provides detailed information about the world, its characters, and its history. While not essential, it can enhance your reading experience, especially if you enjoy delving into the lore and background of the series. It's a great reference to have on hand as you progress through the series, allowing you to quickly look up names, places, and events.

• The Wheel of Time Companion (2015): This is a more comprehensive reference guide, published after the completion of the series, that includes additional information and insights. It's a valuable resource for anyone who wants to explore the series in even greater depth. This companion delves into the details of the series, covering everything from the minor characters to the most obscure elements of the lore. It's a treasure trove for fans who want to deepen their understanding of the Wheel of Time universe.

These additional books provide depth, but the main series books must be read first. These books are a great way to re-immerse yourself in the world of The Wheel of Time.

Tips for Reading The Wheel of Time Series

So, you’re ready to embark on this epic adventure? Here are a few tips to make your journey through The Wheel of Time as enjoyable as possible:

• Be Patient: The series is known for its slow pacing in the middle books. However, stick with it! The payoff is huge. The richness of the world-building and the character development will reward your patience.
• Take Notes: With so many characters and plotlines, it can be helpful to jot down notes about who’s who and what’s happening. Keeping track of the various factions, magic systems, and prophecies can prevent confusion and help you keep everything straight.
• Don't Be Afraid to Use Resources: There are numerous online resources, such as fan wikis and forums, that can provide summaries, character guides, and answers to your questions. Use them to clarify anything you're unsure about.
• Embrace the World: Immerse yourself in the rich world of the Wheel of Time. Pay attention to the details, from the cultures and customs to the unique names and places. The more you engage with the world, the more you’ll enjoy the story.
• Read at Your Own Pace: There’s no rush! Take your time and savor the journey. This isn’t a race; it’s an experience. The goal is to enjoy the story. Don’t feel pressured to read faster than you want.

It's a long series, but the journey is an incredible experience. By following the reading order and taking advantage of the available resources, you can fully appreciate Robert Jordan's masterpiece.

Conclusion

There you have it, guys! Your complete guide to reading the Wheel of Time series. Remember to read the main series in order, and then decide if you want to dive into the prequel and companion books. This series is a true testament to the power of storytelling. The world-building, characters, and intricate plotlines create an unforgettable reading experience. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy reader or new to the genre, The Wheel of Time offers something for everyone. So, gather your courage, prepare your snacks, and get ready to be transported to a world of magic, mystery, and adventure. Happy reading!