Spencer's Bookcase

Lord of Chaos

Title: Lord of Chaos

Author: Robert Jordan

Genre: Fantasy

Series: The Wheel of Time #6

Pages: 918 pages

Synopsis:

Now ruling Tear, Andor, and Caemlyn, among other nations, Rand is recruiting all men capable of channeling to be trained as his Asha’man soldiers. The warrior Aiel clans have pledged loyalty to Rand, acknowledging him as their chief of chiefs, even though the Shaido Aiel remain a threat.

Split into two factions, the Aes Sedai of the White Tower and their rebel counterparts both seek to ally themselves with the Dragon Reborn. Rand knows all too well the manipulative nature of the Aes Sedai, no matter which side of their internal war they stand upon. But even he cannot predict just how desperate, cruel, and treacherous they can be.

And in the shadows, the Forsaken and the Dark One are conjuring even more chaos…

(from Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

Lord of Chaos is the sixth book in this series. And I am still surprised by many things about this series. When I started reading The Eye of the World, it was the first book I read that had two Prologues! The Prologue in this book it’s over 60 pages! 60 pages for the Prologue! This has to be the longest Prologue for a novel that I’ve read so far in a novel. It’s almost long enough to be its own book! I think this also is the first book in the series to have an Epilogue as well.

I feel this book focused a bit less on Fantasy Adventure and instead focuses more on Fantasy Politics. Which is an interesting choice to be sure, considering this series began as a Fantasy Adventure series. There is a lot of politics going on in this book, and as a person who is very interested in Politics, I actually was interested, although it did slow the plot down a bit.

There are quite a few things that I like about this book. I feel like the Forsaken is getting some character development as we get inside the heads of Demandred, Mesaana, Semirhage, Moghadien, Graendal, and even Sammael. And from their point of view, they don’t think they are doing anything wrong. We learn that the Forsaken don’t trust each other and they like to scheme against one another. Turns out they are people with flaws, just like the rest of us.

There were also some cool moments such as Rand getting bonded with Alanna (it happened without his consent, so it’s considered to be almost magical rape), Nyaneve curing Logain, Siuan Sanche and Leane of being stilled, Egwene being raised to Amyrlin Chair, Morgase teaming up with the Whitecloaks. Also, Rand getting shielded and kidnapped by Elaida’s Aes Sedai! I also found it interesting how Climate Change is a theme in this novel, as the characters are remarking on how unusually hot the weather’s been. And they were saying that Summer does not usually last this long.

We also got to see some decent world-building. We got to see the Whitecloak’s Headquarters: The Fortress of Light. We learn that Amadica is sort of a Theocracy, as the Whitecloaks are the ones that really govern that country. We also get to see the city of Ebou Dar.

I also continue to like Perrin’s character development. In this book, he stands up for himself against Faile’s Parents and proves to them that he is a worthy husband to Faile. Which I think was a good character moment for him. I also love it when he realizes that Rand is kidnapped, he just takes charge of the entire situation. And he just knows instantly what needs to get done and the need to save Rand. He does this without any hesitation. And it shows how much he has grown, as before he always hesitated taking leadership. Here he takes on being the leader without hesitating and takes action. Lastly, it’s good that he just accepts being a friend of the wolves in the lead-up to the final battle.

Now let’s talk about the climax. I’m just going to say it: The Climax in this novel is amazing! I love it so much! There is a lot going on and I was able to visualize it in its entirety. There were so many epic moments. I got chills when Taim gave the order “Asha’man Kill”. I think this book’s climax is probably the best climax I’ve ever read in a Fantasy Novel! Amazon Prime, if you ever get to adapt this scene in that Wheel of Time series, you better do it justice! I love Robert Jordan’s Climaxes and so far they have not disappointed me. I also like how for this climax he switched up the formula. In the previous books, the climax was almost always: Rand (and friends) fight one or more Forsaken. Even though each of those climaxes was awesome, this climax was something completely different. As there was no Forsaken, Rand was fighting in this climax. It was a battle between those who support The Dragon and those who did not. Definitely on my list of my favourite moments in this series.

Now, I do have some criticism of this novel. There were quite a few characters that I felt we need more of and characters that do not really do that much. We need more Mat! Mat is an interesting character but I don’t feel like we get enough of him. Important characters such as Elayne and Birgitte, I feel like they didn’t really do that much in this novel. Mat just mostly travels around in this novel. They are just kind of there.

While Egwene being raised to the Amyrlin is a big moment in this novel. I was pretty upset about how it happened. I feel like Egwene becoming the Amyrlin Chair was just a little too early. I knew she was going to be the Amyrlin Chair as it was heavily foreshadowed, but I wasn’t expecting that it would happen this early in the series. I also just feel like it’s completely unearned, as for the past two novels she doesn’t really do much. I do like how Egwene is finding her way after being raised as Amyrlin Chair though.

I also felt like in some of the storylines almost nothing too interesting happens. For example The Rebel Aes Sedai in Salidar. For most of the book not too much interesting happens in that storyline.

Lastly, I just felt like the pacing was a lot slower for some reason compared to the previous books.

Rating this book was a bit of a challenge, as up to the last 200 pages. I was going to give this a 3-star rating, but thanks to that awesome climax. I feel like four stars are the correct rating for this novel. The climax made this book from an okay read to a pretty good read. It also makes me excited to keep on reading! Six down nine more Wheel of Time Books to go!

Rating:

Check out my other The Wheel of Time Series Reviews:

The Wheel of Time (1999 Game)

Monthly Wrap-Up: September 2022

Wow, it’s now been exactly one year since I started doing these Monthly Wrap-Ups, and I continue to like how I give these updates each and every month, and thank you all for taking a few minutes out of your day to read these Monthly Wrap-Ups. Now let’s get to the Monthly Wrap-Up!

Books Read: 2

So I only was able to read about two books this month. I know it’s not a lot but again reading Lord of Chaos in the Wheel of Time Series takes quite a bit of time. Still, I managed to read over 1,200 pages.

Ragged Company by Richard Wagamese

This was the book for this month for my book club. It was a pretty decent story about Chronic Homelessness. It was very insightful with some deep themes.

Lord of Chaos by Robert Jordan

My overall review is coming. But to sum up my thoughts this was an okay book up until the climax. The climax in this book is amazing! This was a huge battle, and I think this may actually be my favourite climax in a Fantasy Novel that I have read so far! It was epic!

Currently Reading:

Carrie by Stephen King

Just in time for October, I just started reading Carrie by Stephen King. Stephen King is one of my personal favourite authors, so I’m glad to be reading Stephen King again. This is Stephen King’s first book and so far I think this is okay so far. I definitely see some of Stephen King’s decent writing here.

What I’ve Been Doing and Watching:

September was a decent month. I had a decent birthday, where I got to play some golf, and enjoy good food on the Patio! I’ve gone on a few decent walks and just spent time outdoors in general. I’m starting to settle into my new position at work.

I’ve kind of been on a Wheel of Time frenzy this month, reading Lord of Chaos and enjoying myself playing The Wheel of Time video game (my review is here). It is such an underrated game and I love this adaptation of this great book series.

I’ve been watching Part 2 of Stone Ocean and it’s still really good! It’s just too bad that I probably have to wait for months for the next part to come out.

I’ve been having a lot of fun coming up with new characters for D&D, and I am having fun creating chaos as the Fighter/Rogue in my party!

Lastly, I put together a new Commander Deck in Magic the Gathering, with Kadena, Slinking Sorcerer as my Commander. It’s Morphin Time!

Plans for Next Month:

In terms of reading, I am excited to announce that the month of October is Horror Month here on this blog! It will be our first themed month here on this blog. For the entire month of October, I will be reading Horror Novels, and Carrie by Stephen King will be the first Horror Novel for this month. There will be no Fantasy Novels for October! I won’t be reading any Fantasy until November! Horror is a genre that I really respect and I just think it’s the perfect genre for this time of year and it’s perfect for Halloween.

Books that I intend to read for October:

Carrie by Stephen King
Even If We Break by Marieke Nijkamp
Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury
Pet Semetary by Stephen King

If I happen to be able to read more than that all the better!

Other than that I hope I can do a Halloween One-Shot for Dungeons & Dragons. Maybe watch some Horror Movies while I am at it. I also just want to watch episodes of the original The Addams Family. Bring on October! See you all next time!

The Wheel of Time (1999 Video Game)

Title: The Wheel of Time

Developer: Legend Entertainment

Release: November 9, 1999

Genre: Fantasy First-Person Shooter

Synopsis:

The game’s setting in respect to the novels is ambiguous; the storyline was said to precede the novels by some 150 years. Although Robert Jordan was consulted, the game’s storyline is not considered canonical for the Wheel of Time setting.

Elayna Sedai of the Brown Ajah, Keeper of the Chronicles, the protagonist and the player’s alter ego, is reading a report from an expedition she sent out when she is attacked by an unknown assassin in her office in the White Tower. She is knocked out, and he makes off with an odd, horn-shaped ter’angreal but not the cuendillar seals he was looking for. The Amyrlin subsequently sends Elayna to recover the mysterious ter’angreal, being told only that it is very important.

Elayna follows the assassin and his army of Trollocs to the crumbling city of Shadar Logoth, which is inhabited by unknown evil creatures. She tracks the assassin through the city, battling Trollocs and dark creatures along the way and finally corners the assassin, who admits that he was hired by the Forsaken Ishamael. Ishamael is seeking the seals held by the Amyrlin. The assassin agrees to return the ter’angreal in return for his life. Just as Elayna retrieves the ter’angreal, the assassin is assailed by Mashadar, the evil that consumed Shadar Logoth, manifested as a mist-like creature.

Upon returning to Tar Valon, Elayna finds the White Tower besieged by Trollocs. After helping to secure the tower, Elayna is told that the Amyrlin wants to see her in the basement with the ter’angreal. On her way to the basement, Elayna overhears a group of Black Ajah Aes Sedai with the assassin from Shadar Logoth and another Aes Sedai named Sephraem, all of whom are working for Ishamael.

When Elayna finds the Amyrlin, she tells her of the Black Ajah. The Amyrlin then tells Elayna of the importance of the odd ter’angreal: Elayna, a weak channeller, has the potential to be the most powerful being on earth. Since her childhood, the Amyrlin has shielded Elayna from the One Power for her own protection, and the odd ter’angreal is able to unlock that power. Just as the Amyrlin is about to use the ter’angreal on Elayna, the assassin and Sephraem break in, kill the Amyrlin, and take the ter’angreal as well as the Amyrlin’s seal.

Elayna takes a few moments to mourn the Amyrlin’s passing, then pursues the assassin and his minions as the new acting Amyrlin. They lead her to an empty Aes Sedai expedition site outside a Whitecloak fortress. She is captured by the Whitecloaks and thrown in the dungeon, where a few of the Aes Sedai are located. Elayna learns that some Aes Sedai were able to escape through a portal stone outside the fortress. She manages to escape from her cell and makes her way to the portal stone.

The portal takes her into the Mountains of Mist, near the fortress of Ishamael. She finds the escaped Aes Sedai in the dungeon of the fortress, rescues them, and defends them while they make their way back to the portal stone. Once they are all away, she begins to search the fortress for the Amyrlin’s seal, which the assassin, now referred to as the Hound, brought to the fortress.

While searching the fortress, she finds some notes on a long lost ritual to remove from the seals the power with the intent to release the Dark Lord from his prison. She eventually finds the seal, guarded by Sephraem. After defeating her and claiming the seal, Elayna is captured by Ishamael, who prepares to torture her. The Hound comes in and uses the odd ter’angreal to trap Ishamael in a Shield. He then explains that he has succumbed to the chaotic evil of Shadar Logoth, and how he purposefully pitted Ishamael, the Aes Sedai and the Whitecloaks against each other to sow chaos. Elayna and Ishamael are able to escape the Hound’s grasp, and Elayna begins gathering seals to complete the aforementioned ritual.

Once they are gathered, Elayna travels to Shayol Ghul, where the ritual must be performed. The Hound arrives, offering to trade the odd ter’angreal, which could bestow untold powers on Elayna, for the seals. To his surprise, Elayna refuses the offer, noting how she had spent her life without those powers. She sends the Hound falling to his death with the artifact and completes the ritual, ensuring that the Dark Lord cannot escape his prison until the Last Battle.

(From Wikipedia)

My Thoughts:

When I found out that there is an actual Wheel of Time Video Game and it’s available. I immediately went and bought it! And I am happy that I did so! This is a First-Person shooter game and surprisingly… it works within the Wheel of Time Universe. You are playing as an Aes Sedai and most Aes Sedai’s magic is ranged. So it being a shooter makes total sense here. Not to mention I love this Intro to the game (it drops a lot of lore and worldbuilding):

Beautiful Intro!

As I am playing this game, I just love how this video game really is trying to be faithful to the book series. Some of the language used in the book is used here, the maps from the books are used here. We get to see locations in the book in this game: We get to see the White Tower and Shadar Logoth! Seeing the lore and the factions that make up this world. Aes Sedai, The Forsaken, Darkfriends, The Whitecloaks, and the Tinkers are all present in this game. I don’t think I have ever seen a video game that is so faithful to a book series before.

I have a few additional reasons for why I like this game: 1. Kickass Female Protagonist: Your Character is Elayna Sedai. While your character can barely channel, once she gets ter’angreal. She becomes kickass! Oh, and did I mention this is also a First-Person Shooter that came out in 1999! 2. The Trollocs in this game is now my headcanon for what these creatures look like. And I now have a new appreciation for these creatures that make up most of the Dark One’s army. 3. Awesome cutscenes that are over an hour long, which is amazing for its time. You could almost have a Wheel of Time Movie just out of these cutscenes. 4. Even in The Wheel of Time, Fireball is one powerful spell!

Is the game challenging? Hell yes. This game has puzzles and your enemies definitely put up a fight. There were times this game even scared me. Especially when you have a Trolloc or two come right at you out of nowhere!

Is it fun? Well, fun is subjective, but personally, I found it a lot of fun.

Now I do have some criticism for this game. I kind of wish this was more of an RPG. I just think an RPG Video Game would be perfect for the Wheel of Time. And I know it is doable since there was a Wheel of Time crossover with D&D, so I know an RPG is definitely doable. It would be fun to Role Play as an Aes Sedai, White Cloak, Warder, Gleeman, or even a Darkfriend.

While I definitely feel this game is a good adaptation of the books, there is something missing. I know it’s a video game and not everything can be included but one of the things missing is the Seanchan and the Aiel. One of the best things about the world of The Wheel of Time is its cultures, and the Aiel and the Seanchan are the best cultures in this world. And there’s something missing about not having them in this game.

Besides that, if you are looking for a decent first-person shooter and are a fan of The Wheel of Time series that is mostly faithful to the novels. Then definitely give this game a try! I am loving this game and this is a great adaptation for the Wheel of Time.

Rating:

Check out my other The Wheel of Time Series Review:

Ragged Company

Title: Ragged Company

Author: Richard Wagamese

Genre: Fiction

Pages: 376 Pages

Synopsis:

Four chronically homeless people–Amelia One Sky, Timber, Double Dick and Digger–seek refuge in a warm movie theatre when a severe Arctic Front descends on the city. During what is supposed to be a one-time event, this temporary refuge transfixes them. They fall in love with this new world, and once the weather clears, continue their trips to the cinema. On one of these outings they meet Granite, a jaded and lonely journalist who has turned his back on writing “the same story over and over again” in favour of the escapist qualities of film, and an unlikely friendship is struck.

A found cigarette package (contents: some unsmoked cigarettes, three $20 bills, and a lottery ticket) changes the fortune of this struggling set. The ragged company discovers they have won $13.5 million, but none of them can claim the money for lack proper identification. Enlisting the help of Granite, their lives, and fortunes, become forever changed.

Ragged Company is a journey into both the future and the past.

(from Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

This is basically a story about friendship and how life can change at any time. As at the beginning of the book, our main characters were all homeless but they had each other and they watch movies to stay away from the cold. While watching these movies they realize the importance of storytelling and have discussions analyzing and reflecting on the movie they just watched. Then one of them wins the Lottery and it changes things for them.

Richard Wagamese tells an important story about friendship, relationships, love, grief and loss, and identity. And it is told from the first-person perspective of our five main characters (Amelia One Sky, Digger, Timber, Double Dick and Granite Harvey). I think having a first-person perspective for each character is one of this book’s biggest strengths. As we get to see things from each of these characters directly. We understand their POV, we understand their backstory, and we understand who these people are through the first-person perspective.

This novel also gives me many emotions as I was reading: there were times were I was laughing, the love story in this book almost broke me, and the ending nearly had me in tears.

Richard Wagamese wrote a very insightful look at homeless people and provides different perspectives on how individuals may end up on the street. Lastly, this was a book that I couldn’t put down.

The only issues, I had with this novel is at times, our main characters are spoken to like children. Even though they are not children at all and it bothered me a little bit. Secondly, it was good, but it just didn’t blow me away or anything.

Overall, Ragged Company is a decent book about Homelessness that is insightful with some deep themes. If you are looking to read about Homelessness and a book that you cannot put down, Ragged Company is a book that I recommend.

Rating:

Monthly Wrap-Up: August 2022

Hello everyone! Welcome to the Monthly Wrap-Up where I give updates on my reading and other things I’m up to in the past month. So let’s get to it!

Books Read: 3

I managed to read about three books this month which is not as high as in July, but to be fair: The Fires of Heaven was a big book to read. I liked all the books for this month!

The Fires of Heaven by Robert Jordan

I continue to love this world! The worldbuilding, the Lore, and the Magic System in this series continue to get better and better. There were a ton of big moments in this book: Birgitte becoming a Warder, Liandrin being shielded, the fight with Lanfear, and the fight with Rhavin were awesome!

Around the World in 80 Days by Jules Verne

I really like this a whole better than Journey to the Centre of the Earth. This was a very quick read for me. I liked how they focused more on the characters and really explored who they are. Also, the plot while simple was a fun one.

I Overcame My Autism and all I got was this Lousy Anxiety Disorder: A Memoir by Sarah Kurchak

This is the first Memoir that I have reviewed for this blog, and I really liked this book. Sarah writes in a very accessible way and she’s fun to read. As an Autistic person, this book really spoke to me and I related to her quite a bit.

Currently Reading:

Ragged Company by Richard Wagamese

This is my book club book for this month! I just started reading so I will let you know how good it is in my review!

What I’ve been doing and watching:

What a month, what a month it’s been! A lot has really changed at work for me! I recently got promoted to assisting one of the Partners at my firm! And I am learning quite a bit!

I am still enjoying things with my book club, and I am looking forward to our next meeting!

Unfortunately, I just haven’t been able to play Magic in person. I am trying, but none of the times for tournaments seem to work for me. Other than that I am still having fun with D&D, I’ve realized that the Maneuvers from Battle Master and Sneak Attack is an awesome combination and I was able to do a ton of damage in our last encounter fight.

I am also having fun watching The Librarians.

Plans for Next Month:

In terms of reading, I intend to read Ragged Company as quickly as possible so I can read Lord of Chaos, the next Wheel of Time book. If I happen to have time, I will try to read a third book (considering how large Wheel of Time books are I doubt it). I am gearing up for our first themed month on this blog, so stay tuned for that.

I am not giving up trying to do In-Person Magic. I am still trying. In Dungeons & Dragons, I am looking forward to my second campaign where I am going to be an eccentric Chaotic Good Wizard genius.

I am settling into my new job and I hope to grow even more in September.

I am also looking forward to Part 2 of Jojo’s Bizarre Adventures Stone Ocean! It’s coming out on September 1!

I’m still enjoying the warm weather and enjoying the last few days of summer. See you all next time!

I Overcame My Autism and all I got was this Lousy Anxiety Disorder: A Memoir

Title: I Overcame My Autism And All I Got Was This Lousy Anxiety Disorder: A Memoir

Author: Sarah Kurchak

Genre: Disability & Autism, Memoir

Pages: 228 Pages

Synopsis:

Sarah Kurchak is autistic. She hasn’t let that get in the way of pursuing her dream to become a writer, or to find love, but she has let it get in the way of being in the same room with someone chewing food loudly, and of cleaning her bathroom sink. In I Overcame My Autism and All I Got Was This Lousy Anxiety Disorder, Kurchak examines the Byzantine steps she took to become “an autistic success story,” how the process almost ruined her life and how she is now trying to recover.

Growing up undiagnosed in small-town Ontario in the eighties and nineties, Kurchak realized early that she was somehow different from her peers. She discovered an effective strategy to fend off bullying: she consciously altered nearly everything about herself—from her personality to her body language. She forced herself to wear the denim jeans that felt like being enclosed in a sandpaper iron maiden. Every day, she dragged herself through the door with an elevated pulse and a churning stomach, nearly crumbling under the effort of the performance. By the time she was finally diagnosed with autism at twenty-seven, she struggled with depression and anxiety largely caused by the same strategy she had mastered precisely. She came to wonder, were all those years of intensely pretending to be someone else really worth it?

Tackling everything from autism parenting culture to love, sex, alcohol, obsessions and professional pillow fighting, Kurchak’s enlightening memoir challenges stereotypes and preconceptions about autism and considers what might really make the lives of autistic people healthier, happier and more fulfilling.

(from Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

This is my first review of a Memoir or an Autobiography that I have done for this blog. So forgive me if this review may not be my best here, as I find it a little difficult to review a person’s life story. But I will still give my honest thoughts.

Overall, I really really liked and enjoyed reading this. Sarah Kurchak writes her whole life story and describes a ton of issues facing the Autism Community including disinformation about Autism, ABA Therapy, Autistic Masking, Special Interests, etc. Also, Sarah is funny and it makes this a pretty good read. As an Autistic myself, I really related well to her and the issues she faced during her life. She was diagnosed with Autism very late and had no idea what it was that made her different, and I can relate to that as I too was diagnosed pretty late with Autism.

Overall, this was a great quick read and I definitely recommend reading this if you want to learn and understand more about Autism from Actual Autistics.

Rating:

Around the World in 80 Days

Title: Around the world in 80 Days

Author: Jules Verne

Genre: Adventure, Classic

Pages: 317 Pages

Synopsis:

One night in the reform club, Phileas Fogg bets his companions that he can travel across the globe in just eighty days. Breaking the well-established routine of his daily life, he immediately sets off for Dover with his astonished valet Passepartout. Passing through exotic lands and dangerous locations, they seize whatever transportation is at hand—whether train or elephant—overcoming set-backs and always racing against the clock.

(from Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

So I am taking a short break from reading Fantasy before I go and read Lord of Chaos and a few other Fantasy Novels. So I decided to finally read Around the World in 80 Days. I decided to read this after watching the recent tv series Around the World in 80 Days starring David Tennant and see how different the book is from the TV series. And boy it certainly is different. The premise is more or less the same as it’s about a man named Phileas Fogg and his Valet, Passepartout travel around the world in 80 days because of a bet.

I definitely feel that Jules Verne really cared about his characters and he wanted us the reader to know who they are. As in the beginning, he spent quite a bit of time telling us what kind of people Passepartout and Fogg are. And I definitely feel the characters are one of the best things about this novel. We get to see things from Passepartout’s POV, Fogg’s, and even Mr. Fix’s.

While the plot is simple, there are a few things that kept things interesting. As Mr. Fix, a detective believes Mr. Fogg is a bank robber and tries to pursue him across the world to try and arrest him. In addition to this there were quite a few significant scenes such as the traveling of Elephants in India and to rescue of a lady from being burnt and fighting bandits on the railway in America were quite interesting scenes. Also true to its title, they do travel across the world: London, Paris, Egypt, India, China, Singapore, and America.

I personally found this very readable as I was able to get through this book in no time.

Now I do have some issues with this novel, when Mr. Fogg had to rescue Passepartout from the bandits it happens off-screen. And I was kind of disappointed at that as it could have been nice character moments for both of these characters. Show don’t tell!

My other criticism of this novel is the racism in this novel, especially how Asians and Indigenous Peoples of America were portrayed in this novel. While I understand the book was originally published in 1872 and it was a very different time back then, it’s a little painful to read the racist parts of this novel.

I was also disappointed that there were no scenes where they traveled in a Hot Air Balloon, despite a lot of imagery of traveling in a Hot Air Balloon on several covers of Around the World in 80 Days. They mentioned traveling in a Hot Air Balloon near the end but they don’t do it. And I was disappointed by it.

Overall, I definitely enjoyed this book a whole lot better than Journey to the Centre of the Earth. This was a much better read for me. I definitely recommend this book if you want to read a quick adventure story.

Rating:

The Fires of Heaven

Title: The Fires of Heaven

Author: Robert Jordan

Genre: Fantasy

Series: The Wheel of Time #5

Pages: 808 Pages

Synopsis:

The bonds and wards that hold the Great Lord of the Dark are slowly failing, but still his fragile prison holds. The Forsaken, immortal servants of the shadow, weave their snares and tighten their grip upon the realms of men, sure in the knowledge that their master will soon break free…

Rand al’ Thor, the Dragon Reborn, knows that he must strike at the Enemy, but his forces are divided by treachery and by ambition. Even the Aes Sedai, ancient guardians of the Light, are riven by civil war. Betrayed by his allies, pursued by his enemies and beset by the madness that comes to the male wielders of the One Power, Rand rides out to meet the foe.

(from Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

The Fires of Heaven is the fifth book of The Wheel of Time Series, where it mainly focuses on three main storylines: Rand trying to learn Saidin (Male Magic), his relationships, going after the Forsaken, and Couladin (a rebel Aiel from the previous book). Elayne and Nynaeve want to reconnect with the Aes Sedai while trying to hunt down one of the Forsaken, Moghedien, and if they can find the rest of the Black Ajah. All while Min continues to flee from the tower.

The Fires of Heaven has a lot of cool moments that really stood out to me: Birgitte becoming a Warder. Elayne putting together an A’dam. Pad Fain meeting Elaida. Alvarin is revealed to be a Darkfrend. Moiraine fighting Lanfear (that was a very well-done scene). Nynaeve defeated Moghedien (again) and Rand defeated Rahvin.

The world-building continues to be developed in each book. We learn a bit more about the Seanchan, the Aiel and their culture, and the country of Ghealdan. The Magic System also feels a lot more refined in this novel, and the dream world of Tel’aran’rhiod opens so many possibilities.

I enjoy that Rand is becoming more confident in who he is and his powers. Elayne and Nynaeve even grow as characters in this novel. Matt is a great character in this book. The past few books have cleverly hinted that Matt is a decent fighter along with his luck. And here we get to see it. As it turns out he is a great fighter and a general.

The Climax at the end is still one of my favourite things about these books. As in this book we technically get three climaxes! We get a great fight scene with Lanfear! Nynaever takes on Moghedien, and the fight between Rand and Rhavin.

Now I do have some issues with this novel. Most of the fight between Matt and Couladin happens off-screen. This confuses me a bit, as I know that Robert Jordan is excellent when it comes to fighting scenes. I enjoy his fight scenes and I know he is more than capable of delivering on these sorts of scenes. Why has this fight happened off-screen? I do not understand.

In my last review, I felt like this series has a bit of a villain problem. In some ways, Robert Jordan has improved with this, and in some ways not really. Just hear me out here. On the one hand, this novel has improved on its villains. Rhavin and Sammael were built up very well, and I definitely felt they were real threats. Lanfear continued to be a great villain. She was terrifying honestly. Almost every time she appears on screen, I kept feeling like things were going to go down. Even when she wasn’t on screen she was still manipulating things from behind the scenes.

On the other hand, the villains haven’t improved too much. First, it looked like Moghedien was made more powerful by focusing on her being in the dream world. Which makes sense since she is more powerful in that world. Only for her to get defeated again by Nynaeve. Secondly, as I mentioned earlier Couladin (not even a Darkfriend or a Forsaken but still an antagonist) was killed mostly off-screen. Which doesn’t do a good job of building up his threat. Thirdly, I feel like this series really missed out on an opportunity to have a redemption arc with Asmodean (a Forsaken). I thought there was a possibility that Asmodean might be given a redemption arc by continuing to be Rand’s teacher on Saidin (the male half of the one power). Only for him to be killed off by a person off-screen. Really? I was disappointed by that.

Lastly, Perrin and my boy Loial are not in this book. I missed their presence. Especially since Perrin has seen some of the best character development in this series so far.

Overall though I loved this book. I think I even like this book better than The Shadow Rising. Each book keeps developing the world and its characters. And the story overall continues to be very entertaining for me. This is still a series that I really enjoy and it still is my personal favorite Fantasy Series. I am looking forward to reading Lord of Chaos.

Rating:

My other Wheel of Time Book Reviews:

Monthly Wrap-Up: July 2022

Hello everyone! Welcome to the Monthly Wrap-Up where I give updates on my reading and other things I’m up to in the past month. So let’s get to it!

Books Read: 4

I manage to read four books this month, which I feel good about. I can safely say that I liked all of the books I read this month, there was not one book that I did not like for this month.

Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson

This was a great read, with very good and likable characters, and I loved the Hard Magic System in this series and they explained it very well. It was also very fun to read.

A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll

I chose to re-read this book (it was mostly for my book club, more on that later). And I loved and appreciated this book even more reading it for a second time. I already did a review of this book and I mostly stand by what I said in that and you can check out my review of this novel here.

Circe by Madeline Miller

This was an okay read, it didn’t blow my mind or anything but it was an okay read, and I loved all the Greek Mythology references in this novel since I do love Greek Mythology.

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkein

This is the perfect Fantasy Novel in my opinion. This book is amazing! And it is an essential Fantasy Novel for Fantasy Readers to read.

Currently Reading:

The Fires of Heaven by Robert Jordan

I have not forgotten about this series! And it’s good to be back! I’m enjoying being back in the World of the Wheel of Time. And so far it’s interesting what’s going on right now in this book.

What I’ve been doing and watching:

This past month, I spent a few days with my friends in person. And it was a great time. I’ve also just been trying to enjoy the warm weather wherever and whenever possible.

I’ve also started a book club with my friends and we are having a great time with it! And I am looking forward to the next meeting!

In terms of TV, I am finally watching the last season of Brooklyn Nine-Nine and I still love this series.

In gaming, I started playing the first Baldur’s Gate PC game, and I am having a lot of fun exploring this world. I love how they apply Dungeons & Dragons RPG into this game.

Last month in Dungeons & Dragons, I had the best session yet. It was hilariously fun and the most memorable session I’ve had so far. I now have a route to make my Fighter to multiclass to a Fighter/Rogue, and I am going for it (my original plan was to play a Rogue but someone else beat me to it)!

Plans for Next Month:

My immediate book reading plan is to read the fifth book of The Wheel of Time series: The Fires of Heaven and the book for August’s Book Club.

I am interested in giving the TV series: The Librarians a try. I hope to have a lot of fun with my Fighter/Rogue in my Dungeons & Dragons Sessions. I am still enjoying the warm weather and hope to continue this in August. Maybe just maybe I will finally return to In-Person Magic the Gathering in August.

See you all next time!

The Hobbit

Title: The Hobbit

Author: J.R.R. Tolkein

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure

Pages: 280 Pages

Synopsis:

Smaug certainly looked fast asleep, when Bilbo peeped once more from the entrance. He was just about to step out on to the floor when he caught a sudden thin ray of red from under the drooping lid of Smaug’s left eye. He was only pretending to be asleep! He was watching the tunnel entrance…

Whisked away from his comfortable, unambitious life in his hobbit-hole in Bag End by Gandalf the wizard and a company of dwarves, Bilbo Baggins finds himself caught up in a plot to raid the treasure hoard of Smaug the Magnificent, a large and very dangerous dragon…

(from Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

I decided to reread The Hobbit since that new Lord of the Rings series is coming out. If I am being completely honest here: What can I say about this book that hasn’t been said already? For me this is almost the perfect Fantasy Novel: It’s a novel with strong characters, good worldbuilding and lore (which is surprising since it’s a 280-page book), and also just a simple but great story.

The Hobbit has fantastic characters such as Bilbo Baggins, Thorin Oakenshield, and my favourite Wizard in all of Fantasy: Gandalf. Gandalf is my favourite character and he steals almost every scene he’s in. Despite Smaug not being in the book too long, he is a pretty intimidating but amusing villain. While he likes to boast, he can back those boasts. And I still think he is one of, if not the best dragon in a Fantasy series I have read so far. Smaug is the embodiment of what a dragon should be.

As I mentioned earlier despite it being a 280-page book, there is a lot of worldbuilding in this novel. As for one thing we get to explore the world of Middle Earth through this Journey. The races such as Elves, Goblins, Dwarves, and Hobbits are all established and have their own unique identities that set each apart. We also get insight into how certain groups are governed: The Elves, Dwarves, and Goblins are ruled by Monarchy, but interesting Lake Town elects its leader also known as “Master”. And there is quite a bit of lore mentioned as well.

There even is some themes in this novel such as the dangers of Greed. As Thorin becomes greedy when he can take the treasure from Smaug, and his desire to get the Arkenstone.

As I mentioned it’s just a simple story about a Hobbit named Bilbo Baggins going on a quest to free a mountain from Smaug and win a share of the treasure. And yet its story is so good.

One thing I noticed while rereading this, is how this book almost perfectly sets up Lord of the Rings: the Ring is introduced, Gollum and Elrond are in this book, and Radaghast the Brown even got a small mention and so much more. Even so, I still feel like even if Lord of the Rings never happened, this book is still a great stand-alone novel.

Now the only real criticism I have of this novel is some of the language used in this book is very antiquated such as “felt very queer”, which kept popping up in this book. And it can be off-putting at times.

This book is probably my favourite Fantasy book and it’s almost perfect. This is essential Fantasy reading. Period.

Rating: