The Wheel of Time turns, my runs get longer, and this series hits a plot milestone. Winter’s Heart is one of my favourite books in the series for one reason: Chapter 35: “With the Choedan Kal.”

This is one of the best final chapters of any book in the series. Told from a variety of perspectives including plenty of insight into the motivations of the Forsaken, the events at Shadar Logoth change the world forever.

Of course, there’s more to the book than Rand’s plot. Elaine’s machinations in Andor drag the pace down at times. Mat’s story begins slowly, but gathers steam quickly. Oh yes, and there’s the most awkward moment in the entire series—when Rand meets Elaine and Aviendha and Min. The ‘joys’ of being ta’veren!

Jordan, Robert. Winter’s Heart. TOR, 2000. The Wheel of Time 9.