Towers of Midnight: A Theoryland Review
By a Theory Freak for Theory Freaks

First, considering the opportunity I have been given by Harriet to publish this review before the book is released, I should tell you that I was one of a handful of beta readers of Towers of Midnight. That being disclosed, I thought you might appreciate a view of the book from a Theory Freak’s perspective.

I'm happy to tell you that Towers of Midnight is a far-reaching, entertaining and thought-provoking book for Freaks like me. And as I consider my favorites from the series, it now sits in my top five as seen in the handy “My Top Five” list below.

My Top Five

1. Lord of Chaos
2. The Shadow Rising
3. The Fires of Heaven
4. The Great Hunt
5. Towers of Midnight

You can read into this list what you will...and you will, because you are Freaks. For me, Towers of Midnight expands the World in a significant number of ways that interest me and have always interested me. It reminds me of why I became a Theory Freak.

Theory Potential?

Lately, it’s been tough for us Freaks. We’ve been running out of things to discuss for years. Some ideas are so old they are new again. Yes, there have been some original theories and discussions that have been fun to kick around and I’m surprised every once in a while by the ingenuity of my fellow Freaks, but those moments have been few and far between. As a committed Asmodeanite, even I have a hard time getting into new discussions regarding his demise. In fact, crazy theories have felt repetitive, but once you’ve seriously entertained Berelain is Moiraine, the crazy can seem mundane too.

Thankfully and surprisingly this trend changes in Towers of Midnight; an inkling of such changes can be seen in the prologue and first chapter. From Moridin to Metaphysics, new possibilities and questions abound and a few old ideas gain new life, all as the Last Battle approaches. I look forward to discussing the implications for the next eighteen months, as there are more than a few unforgettable moments. In fact, I’m enthusiastic enough to start writing theories again, especially one or two involving a particular female character. But that’s me. I thrive off of the potential for new and renewed discussions about the Wheel of Time.

Of course, much comes to an end. Towers of Midnight is full of events we’ve been predicting, anticipating and discussing ever since The Dragon Reborn and those moments rarely disappoint. So much comes full circle, it's hard not to look back and appreciate the harmony (along with some pleasurable and sometimes surprising discord) of the Pattern Jordan wove.

What Was Disappointing?

I didn’t get everything I wanted. At times, I was under-whelmed by how a few plot threads turned, twisted and ended…or appear to end. And there are a few moments where, depending on which characters you Freaks enjoy, your eyes will gloss over, as it has become apparent how much you either like or dislike certain characters.

Specifically, I was hoping for a Forsaken buffet and a slumber party afterwards. That didn’t happen, although the main course was tasty. I was hoping for much of the book to take place in the Black Tower (one can hope), that didn’t happen either. I was hoping that Aviendha would take a long bath…read and find out.

Small Detail, Big Impact

Delivers. Period. If you have no idea what “small detail, big impact” refers to, and you don’t mind reading a hint Brandon gave us during last year’s tour, go here: http://www.theoryland.com/vbulletin/...ead.php?t=2514. I knew it when it happened and you’ll enjoy it too.

Anything Else?

The Epic-logue rang in my mind and still rings. Yes, calling it the Epic-logue is all sorts of jokes mixed into one, more tongue in cheek as it is fun to say, but there is at least one unexpected moment that sets the end on edge. And no, it does not involve him.

Final Thoughts

Before reading Towers of Midnight, I was expecting A Memory of Light to be the predictable final illusion the magician saves to end his show, in this case the one that’s been foreshadowed for two decades. I knew with the surety born of true fanaticism that whatever the final act turned out to be I’d already considered it, because what could be any more surprising than what we, my fellow Freaks, have imagined during the many intermissions? Right?

Now, I’m not so sure. I’m second-guessing myself. I’m looking around, staring intently to my sides and back to the stage. Anxious. I know what’s behind that curtain…don’t I? I’m excited and nervous and hoping with all of my freakish fervor that my renewed wonder will be rewarded.

The final intermission approaches. Then, the last act begins.

Matt (aka Tamyrlin)
Asmodeanite
Benevolent Dictator
Hardcore Fan Freak

Matt: You have been killing my theories left and right since I got here.
Robert Jordan: I have always thought that the small whimper of a theory as it dies is a beautiful sound.