I, like many of you, have been looking forward to this book for quite some time. I knew at the end of the last book that Jordan would not be able to finish this story in one volume. Incidentally, I was happy about that, because it meant more story. Regardless of the reputation WoT has for being meandering and shallow, I greatly enjoy reading it and think it has more going for it than a lot of people give it credit for.
I have to admit to some trepidation, though. I think Brandon Sanderson was a great choice, but I wondered if he could blend in seamlessly with RJ's style. What I discovered was that, while I could tell at the very beginning, Sanderson did an excellent job. I soon found myself engrossed and totally forgot about it.
This book was perhaps one of the most profound of the bunch. It had its share of flaws. Rand's character has been disturbingly emo for quite some time. Almost beyond credibility, I think. While that did continue, I feel it was addressed in a satisfactory manner. I wonder if that was RJ's idea or Sanderson's touch? The other characters seemed to be their usual selves. I enjoyed everyone's storyline, even Mat's for a change. I was glad Elayne wasn't really included in this book, but that's my own bias towards her character. I still think that including the Seanchan in the story was a bad idea from the beginning, but it'll be interesting to see how things go from here.
There were moments of surprise, sadness, delight- it ran the gamut, truly. I think it's one of the best books in the bunch. The Wheel of Time won't be remembered as the best fantasy series in history... I still don't see CoT being anything other than greed for selling another book setting in. I hate to say that, as I have always had a great deal of respect for RJ, and perhaps I'm being too harsh. Regardless, the Wheel of Time has a few deep flaws. And yet I believe it deserves its popularity. I hope that many of those who have given up on it will come back to discover that Sanderson's touch on Robert Jordan's ideas have revitalized it. Especially considering that RJ probably led many of us community MB'ers to wotmania, which has been one of the greatest joys of my early 20's.
I for one can't wait until the next book comes out. This story will always have a special place in my heart.