Rate: 4/5

Medium: Audiobook

Overview (No Spoilers):

Having been relatively struggling through the past couple of book in the Wheel of Time series, I was excited to finally reach the Knife of Dreams as I knew from fellow bloggers the story would pick back up again. This installment thankfully resolved several lingering subplots that had been stalling a few characters, ultimately freeing them up for bigger and better adventures.  This read was also bittersweet as it was Jordan’s last solo book before bringing Brandon Sanderson in to complete the series upon his death.  Mat’s chapters were still by far the most entertaining, with Perrin’s chapters hopefully hitting rock bottom, although I’m skeptical we’ve officially reached his breaking point. There also seems to be light at the end of the tunnel for the inner turmoil that the Aes Sedai have been going through, although the Black Tower might be on the verge of mirroring with their own inner strife.  From the reader’s perspective, I laughed, I cried, and I sighed with exasperation/annoyance, truly running the full gambit of emotions as I thoroughly enjoyed the path this journey has taken. With many of the storylines having resolved lingering points of contention, I’m curious how Jordan will progress the tale as there are so many paths he could advance this adventure.  I do appreciate how Jordan manages, within this large, detailed literary world. to shuffle the groups of individuals around so freqently.  We’ve seen so many various pairings of the main characters that it works to keep the story and dialogue from growing stagnant. Overall, Knife of Dreams was a fantastic addition to a continually evolving story that has me eager to pick up the next installment.

Additional Insight (Spoilers Abound):

• What is happening with the Galad and the White Cloaks? He is now Lord Captain Commander, but then disappeared other than rumors throughout the rest of the book? What role will he end up playing? How did I miss that Rand Al’Thor is his half brother?
• High Lady Suroth is a Dark Friend! Who else will turn out to be aligned with the Dark One?
• Mat yet again was the best character in this whole read. Sure I may or may not have cried when Tuon declared that Mat was her husband, but the most intriguing aspect of this book was that Moiraine was still alive. As he goes to rescue her will we learn more about the Aelfinn and Eelfinn? How will Tuon returning to Ebou Dar impact the other pawns at play?
• What will Rand do with Semirhage? Rand’s poor hand! I did thoroughly enjoy Rand interacting with Logain. When will the strife with the Black Tower come to a head?
• Just when I though Perrin’s chapters can’t get any worse, he goes and kills Rolan, thoroughly ruining his rescue of Faile. And Faile didn’t even show remorse for Rolan who was her protector. I can already anticipate how painful their reunion will turn out. I’m so ready for Morgase to come out as the Queen still alive!
• I’d initially assumed that Egwene’s chapters would drag during her captivity, however, her interactions quickly became my favorite. As she lays the foundation for Elaida
• Loial is married! Will we now see more of Elder Haman?
• Elayne finally becomes Queen. What will her next challenge be?
• How many of Lan’s old followers will rise up again to help him?