My (literal) run through The Wheel of Time via audiobook continues with book four, The Shadow Rising. Jordan changed the formula for this book, which was refreshing.

Where the earlier books have the heroes leave their home base for adventure near the beginning of each book (Two Rivers, Shienar, Mountains of Mist), book four has them camping out in the Stone of Tear for the first third of the volume. It’s a clever move—the geographical pause echoes the way that Rand acts too slow for comfort.

On the negative side, the gender-bickering in this book grows wearisome quickly. Men can’t understand women and vice-versa. I get it. I wonder whether hearing the story narrated by male and female voices (depending on point of view) adds to the irritation. I don’t remember finding it so bothersome the first time through. Fortunately, the irritating dialogue is overwhelmed by plot pacing and revelations.

Finally, it’s interesting to note how a reread brings different things to light. I remember being frustrated by Perrin’s plotline during my first read-through. Enough of the Two Rivers, let’s get to Rand in Rhuidean! This time, I was wrapped up in the pathos of Perrin’s defense of his homeland.

I’m on pace for the most kilometers run in a year, and Jordan’s epic Wheel of Time is a big part of the reason why. I’ll be starting The Fires of Heaven the next time I lace up my shoes.

Jordan, Robert. The Shadow Rising. TOR, 1992. The Wheel of Time 4.