The Wheel of Time series, authored by Robert Jordan, stands as a monumental work within the fantasy genre, spanning fourteen books and a prequel. This expansive narrative weaves together intricate plots, a richly detailed world, and a vast array of characters, crafting a story that has captured the imaginations of readers for decades.

The series begins with "The Eye of the World," where we are introduced to a world both familiar and fantastical. The protagonist, Rand al'Thor, is a young man from the village of Emond's Field, whose life is irrevocably changed when he discovers he is the Dragon Reborn, a prophesied figure destined to face the Dark One in the Last Battle. Alongside Rand are his friends Mat Cauthon and Perrin Aybara, as well as Egwene al'Vere and Nynaeve al'Meara, each of whom plays a crucial role in the unfolding narrative.

The world-building in The Wheel of Time is nothing short of masterful. Jordan crafts a universe where every culture, language, and tradition feels authentic and lived-in. From the Aiel Waste to the White Tower of the Aes Sedai, each locale is meticulously described and integral to the story's progression. The magic system, known as the One Power, is divided into male (Saidin) and female (Saidar) halves, creating a dynamic interplay between genders that permeates the series.

The narrative complexity of The Wheel of Time is one of its most compelling aspects. Jordan skillfully interweaves multiple plotlines and character arcs, creating a tapestry that is both intricate and cohesive. As the series progresses, characters evolve in profound ways. Rand's journey from a naive shepherd to a battle-hardened leader grappling with immense power and responsibility is particularly striking. Mat Cauthon's transformation from a carefree prankster to a cunning general and Perrin Aybara's struggle to balance his humanity with his wolf-like abilities showcase the depth of character development.

Egwene al'Vere's rise within the ranks of the Aes Sedai and Nynaeve al'Meara's unwavering determination to heal and protect her friends further enrich the narrative. The inclusion of strong, multifaceted female characters is a hallmark of Jordan's writing, breaking traditional fantasy tropes and offering a more balanced portrayal of heroism.

Jordan's exploration of themes such as fate, free will, and the cyclical nature of time adds a philosophical dimension to the series. The concept of the Wheel of Time itself—a world where time is a wheel and history is destined to repeat—provides a unique framework for examining these themes. Characters often grapple with their predetermined roles, seeking to assert their agency while recognizing the inevitability of prophecy.

As the series progresses, the scope of the story expands, introducing a plethora of new characters, factions, and political intrigues. The White Tower, the Forsaken, the Seanchan, and numerous other groups each have their own motivations and agendas, contributing to the complexity and depth of the narrative. Jordan's ability to maintain coherence and momentum across such a sprawling saga is a testament to his storytelling prowess.

Tragically, Robert Jordan passed away before completing the series. However, the final three books were brought to fruition by author Brandon Sanderson, based on extensive notes and outlines left by Jordan. Sanderson's contributions are widely regarded as respectful and faithful to Jordan's vision, providing a satisfying conclusion to the epic tale.

The influence of The Wheel of Time on the fantasy genre is profound. Its ambitious scope, intricate world-building, and deep character development have set a benchmark for subsequent works. The series has inspired a dedicated fanbase and has been adapted into various media, including a television series, further cementing its legacy.

In summary, The Wheel of Time is a monumental achievement in fantasy literature. Its richly detailed world, complex characters, and thematic depth offer a compelling and immersive reading experience. Robert Jordan's epic saga continues to resonate with readers, exemplifying the enduring power and allure of fantasy storytelling.

Brandon Sanderson's contribution to The Wheel of Time series is a remarkable chapter in literary history. Following the passing of Robert Jordan in 2007, the fate of the series' conclusion hung in the balance. However, with the blessing of Jordan's widow, Harriet McDougal, and the extensive notes left by Jordan himself, Sanderson was entrusted with the immense responsibility of completing the epic saga. His work on the series not only honored Jordan's legacy but also brought the long-running narrative to a satisfying and fitting conclusion.

Sanderson, already a respected figure in the fantasy genre with his Mistborn series and The Stormlight Archive, approached the task with both reverence and enthusiasm. His deep respect for Jordan's vision and meticulous preparation ensured that the transition between authors was seamless, preserving the series' distinctive voice and tone.

The final three books of The Wheel of Time—The Gathering Storm, Towers of Midnight, and A Memory of Light—were crafted by Sanderson based on Jordan's extensive notes and outlines. These books are characterized by a careful balance of honoring the established narrative while bringing Sanderson's own strengths as a storyteller to the fore.

In The Gathering Storm, Sanderson successfully continued the complex arcs of the main characters, delving deeper into their personal struggles and growth. The book maintained the high stakes and intense pacing that fans had come to expect, while also providing moments of introspection and character development. Sanderson's ability to handle multiple plot threads and large casts of characters was evident as he deftly wove together the various storylines leading up to the series' climax.

Towers of Midnight further showcased Sanderson's skill in balancing action and character moments. The book dealt with the significant development of key characters, such as Perrin Aybara's acceptance of his dual nature and Mat Cauthon's strategic brilliance coming to the forefront. Sanderson's respect for the established lore and his ability to inject new energy into the narrative kept readers engaged and invested in the characters' journeys.

The final book, A Memory of Light, brought the series to its epic conclusion. Sanderson's task was monumental: to deliver the long-awaited Last Battle between the forces of Light and the Dark One. The book is a masterclass in epic fantasy, delivering intense and emotionally charged battles, unexpected twists, and deeply satisfying resolutions to character arcs. Sanderson's attention to detail and commitment to staying true to Jordan's vision ensured that the conclusion felt earned and resonant.

Sanderson's work on The Wheel of Time was met with widespread acclaim from both critics and fans. He managed to capture the essence of Jordan's writing while adding his own narrative flair. His meticulous planning, strong characterization, and ability to handle complex plots made him the ideal choice to bring the series to its conclusion.

In addition to completing the main narrative, Sanderson's contribution revitalized interest in The Wheel of Time, introducing new readers to the series and ensuring its continued legacy. His work stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of storytelling, showcasing how one author's vision can be carried forward and honored by another.

Overall, Brandon Sanderson's role in concluding The Wheel of Time series is a significant achievement in the realm of fantasy literature. His dedication to preserving Robert Jordan's legacy while bringing his own talents to the table resulted in a finale that remains true to the series' grand and intricate tapestry. The successful completion of the saga underscores the enduring power of collaborative storytelling and solidifies The Wheel of Time as one of the most influential and beloved works in the fantasy genre.

The books are: New Spring, Eye of the World, The Great Hunt, The Dragon Reborn, The Shadow Rising, The Fires of Heaven, Lord of Chaos, A Crown of Swords, The Path Daggers, Winter's Heart, Crossroads of Twilight, Knife of Dreams, The Gathering Storm, Towers of Midnight, and A Memory of Light. The Wheel of Time is one of literature's greatest achievments in epic fantasy. It was written by the late Robert Jordan, and completed posthumously by his successor, Brandon Sanderson. Wheel of Time is a story that takes place both in our past and our future. In his fantasy world, the Dark One, the embodiment of pure evil, is breaking free from his prison. The overall plot is about a man who learns that he is the reincarnation of the world's messiah and is once again destined to save the world from the Dark One -- but possibly destroy it in the process. This saga is not only his story, but the story of an entire world's struggle to deal with war and change, destruction and hope. You can buy the series by going here.