The Eye of the World

3.50/5.00

Let me begin this review by stating unequivocally that I have not read the Lord of the Rings, and I have not read any classic-epic fantasy. I deliberately made the decision to start with The Wheel of Time, since the story is largely unknown to me (except for whatever was in the first 2 seasons of the show). as compared to LOTR.

This book was a wonderful journey. For the first time, I was inspired to create page marks as references for the lore. I loved the lore, the cultures, the history and the naming of places and people. I got to experience the breeze of classic-epic fantasy in a very satisfying way. The prose is very good. Robert Jordan had me searching the dictionary so many times! There was a “charm” to the dialogue and the prose that I don't quite find in modern fantasy (lot of doom and gloom and depression there).

The plot was okay, obviously derivative of the fellowship of the ring, but I enjoyed it either way. Character work is “okay” at best. Overall a great read, looking forward to more books. I am such a sucker for strong female characters and I absolutely loved Moraine Sedai, Moraine Aes Sedai!

The wheel weaves as the wheel wills! Awesome!

My fav character was Nyneave, but other than her, I didn't quite take with any of them. I found Rand to be quite bland, and being a boring narrator. I did like some of the comedic relief in the book, which was so rare that I was craving more. Loved Shienar, loved the moment when the gang reunites and there is literally a "mommy Moraine" moment when Rand is so relieved to be under here protection again.