Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Pacing
- Moderate
- Mood
- Epic, desperate, intense, politically charged, introspective
The Gathering Storm Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
The Price of Power
Rand al'Thor, the Dragon Reborn, grows increasingly isolated and grim, his personality hardening under the pressure of leading the world against the Shadow. He tries to develop a Last Battle strategy, but his methods become ruthless, alienating many allies. He attempts to enforce a truce with the Seanchan, a move almost everyone views with suspicion. The voices of Lews Therin Telamon, his past self, grow louder, battling for control and pushing him toward despair. His increasing use of the True Power, the Shadow's counterpart to the One Power, corrupts him further. This appears as a literal shadow around his heart and a chilling detachment from humanity. He believes he must become harder than the Shadow to defeat it, a path that frightens those who love him.
A Captive Amyrlin
Egwene al'Vere, the Amyrlin Seat of the rebel Aes Sedai, is captured by the White Tower and disciplined by Elaida do Avriny a'Roihan and the Mistress of Novices, Silviana. Despite imprisonment and abuse, Egwene refuses to break. Instead, she uses her position to subtly undermine Elaida's authority, sow discord among loyalist Aes Sedai, and secretly rally her rebel sisters within the Tower. She endures beatings and public shaming, but her spirit remains strong, earning her the respect of many who first scorned her. Egwene's resolve and strategic mind begin to unify the Aes Sedai factions, loyalist and rebel, as a Seanchan invasion approaches.
The Seanchan Threat
The Seanchan forces, led by Tuon, move toward Tar Valon, the White Tower's seat. Their advance is swift and brutal, conquering lands and enslaving channelers. The White Tower, weakened by internal strife and Elaida's poor leadership, is unprepared. Egwene, though a prisoner, predicts the attack and tries to warn the Tower, but her warnings are dismissed. As the Seanchan approach, the loyalist Aes Sedai face their precarious position. Tar Valon prepares for an invasion unlike any it has seen in centuries, threatening to shatter the Aes Sedai's power and influence.
Nynaeve's Quest
Nynaeve al'Meara, with Elayne Trakand and others, travels to the Borderlands, specifically Kandor, to find a cure for the madness that afflicts male channelers. This quest is driven by the urgent need to allow men to wield the One Power without succumbing to the taint on saidin, a critical factor for the Last Battle. Their journey is dangerous, encountering various threats and political complications. Nynaeve's healing abilities are pushed to their limits as she experiments with methods and studies the One Power, hoping to unlock a secret that has eluded Aes Sedai for millennia. Her determination comes from her love for Lan and her understanding of male channelers' vital role.
Rand's Dark Path
Rand's descent into a colder, more calculating leader continues. He executes those he sees as disloyal, including White Tower members and nobles who defy him. His interactions with Min, Elayne, and Aviendha become strained; they see the man they love transforming into someone they barely recognize. He tries to use the True Power more frequently, believing it gives him an edge against the Shadow, but it only isolates him further. His pronouncements become absolute, his orders unyielding, and his trust in anyone, even himself, wanes. He is convinced that only through ruthlessness can he prepare the world for the Last Battle, even if it means sacrificing his own soul.
The White Tower Siege
The Seanchan launch their full-scale assault on Tar Valon. The battle is fierce and devastating, with Seanchan air forces and ground troops overwhelming the city's defenses. The Aes Sedai, despite internal divisions, fight valiantly but are outmatched by the Seanchan's numbers and tactics. The loyalist Aes Sedai leadership, particularly Elaida, proves ineffective. Egwene, still a prisoner, sees the destruction and recognizes the desperate need for unified leadership. The White Tower is heavily damaged, and many Aes Sedai are captured and collared as damane, a humiliating fate for those who once wielded such power freely.
Egwene's Leadership Emerges
During the Seanchan siege's chaos, Egwene asserts her leadership. She strategically uses her knowledge of both loyalist and rebel Aes Sedai to coordinate resistance from within the Tower. Despite her damane collar, she inspires others to fight, using her strength and resolve to unite the factions. She shows courage and tactical brilliance, earning the respect and loyalty of many who had previously scorned her. Her actions during the siege show her true power as the Amyrlin Seat, proving that even in chains, she can lead and inspire, a stark contrast to Elaida's crumbling authority.
Elaida's Downfall
Elaida's incompetence and arrogance lead to her downfall during the Seanchan invasion. Her inability to lead, her disregard for warnings, and her focus on petty power struggles rather than defense leave the White Tower vulnerable. As the Seanchan overwhelm the Tower, Elaida tries to flee but is captured and collared as a damane, a deeply ironic and humiliating end for the woman who so vehemently persecuted other channelers. Her capture signals the collapse of her tyrannical rule and opens the way for new, unified leadership within the Aes Sedai, spearheaded by Egwene's actions during the crisis.
Rand's Despair and the Dragonmount
Overwhelmed by his destiny, the taint on saidin, Lews Therin's voices, and the seemingly endless cycle of violence and betrayal, Rand falls into despair. He believes he has failed, that he is nothing more than a weapon of destruction, and that the only way to end the suffering is to destroy everything. He travels to Dragonmount, the site of his previous incarnation's suicide, intending to unleash a catastrophic amount of the One Power, enough to cleanse the world of all life. This is his darkest hour, a moment where the weight of the world threatens to crush him entirely, pushing him to the brink of ultimate annihilation.
The Enlightenment at Dragonmount
At his self-destruction's edge on Dragonmount, Rand is confronted by Tam al'Thor, his adoptive father. Tam's unwavering love and simple wisdom break through Rand's hardened shell, reminding him of what it means to be human and to fight for life. This encounter, with a spiritual experience, leads Rand to a revelation. He understands the true nature of the Light and the Shadow, realizing that the fight is not about becoming as hard as the Shadow, but about embracing life, love, and hope. This enlightenment cleanses the taint from his soul, integrates Lews Therin's memories, and restores his humanity, marking a turning point in his journey.
The Unified White Tower
After the Seanchan invasion, with Elaida captured, Egwene is recognized as the true Amyrlin Seat by both loyalist and rebel Aes Sedai. Her courage, leadership during the siege, and her ability to unite the factions prove her worth. She begins the task of rebuilding the White Tower, healing divisions, and preparing the Aes Sedai for the Last Battle. This unification of the Aes Sedai, long fractured by the schism, is a critical step toward presenting a united front against the Shadow and a victory for Egwene and the White Tower's future.
The Cleansing of Rand
Following his enlightenment on Dragonmount, Rand is fundamentally changed. Lews Therin's voices are no longer a torment but integrated memories, offering wisdom. The shadow around his heart dissipates, and he regains his compassion and humanity. He understands that the fight against the Shadow is not about power or destruction, but about protecting life and upholding the Light. This internal cleansing revitalizes his spirit and clarifies his purpose, allowing him to approach the Last Battle not as a weary weapon, but as a true leader, filled with hope and resolve. He is no longer just the Dragon Reborn, but Rand al'Thor, whole once more.
Principal Figures
Rand al'Thor
Protagonist
The Dragon Reborn, grappling with madness and the weight of the world.
Rand is burdened by the prophecies of the Dragon Reborn and the looming Last Battle. In 'The Gathering Storm,' he descends into a dark, ruthless persona, believing he must become harder than the Shadow to defeat it. He struggles with the voice of Lews Therin Telamon in his head and the corruption of the True Power, alienating his allies and nearly succumbing to despair. His actions are driven by a desperate need to prepare the world, but his methods become increasingly tyrannical and cold, leading him to the brink of self-destruction.
Relationships: Egwene al'Vere (Childhood friend, former lover); Min Farshaw (Lover, confidante); Elayne Trakand (Lover, political ally); Aviendha (Lover, Aiel warrior); Tam al'Thor (Adoptive father, moral compass); Lews Therin Telamon (Past incarnation, internal voice)
Egwene al'Vere
Protagonist
The Amyrlin Seat, captive in the White Tower, who unites the Aes Sedai.
Egwene is the Amyrlin Seat of the rebel Aes Sedai, captured and imprisoned by the White Tower. Despite enduring severe abuse and humiliation, she refuses to break. Instead, she uses her captivity to her advantage, subtly undermining Elaida's authority, rallying her sisters, and preparing the Tower for the inevitable Seanchan attack. She demonstrates remarkable resilience, strategic brilliance, and unwavering courage, proving her worth as a leader and ultimately unifying the fractured Aes Sedai.
Relationships: Rand al'Thor (Childhood friend, former lover); Nynaeve al'Meara (Mentor, close friend); Elaida do Avriny a'Roihan (Antagonist, captor); Gawyn Trakand (Love interest)
Nynaeve al'Meara
Supporting
Powerful healer seeking a cure for male channeler madness.
Nynaeve is a powerful Aes Sedai healer and one of Egwene's closest friends. In 'The Gathering Storm,' she embarks on a crucial quest to find a cure for the madness afflicting male channelers, a task vital for the Last Battle. Her determination and exceptional healing abilities are central to this endeavor. She is fiercely protective of her friends and driven by a strong sense of justice and compassion, often acting as a grounding force for those around her, though her temper remains legendary.
Relationships: Lan Mandragoran (Husband); Egwene al'Vere (Close friend, former student); Elayne Trakand (Close friend, fellow Aes Sedai)
Elaida do Avriny a'Roihan
Antagonist
The tyrannical Amyrlin Seat of the White Tower, whose incompetence leads to its downfall.
Elaida is the self-proclaimed Amyrlin Seat of the White Tower, a rigid and arrogant leader who seized power through a coup. Her reign is marked by tyranny, mismanagement, and a dangerous disregard for counsel. She persecutes Egwene and prioritizes consolidating her own power over preparing the White Tower for external threats. Her incompetence and hubris ultimately lead to the Tower's vulnerability and her humiliating capture by the Seanchan, ending her destructive rule.
Relationships: Egwene al'Vere (Captor, rival); Alviarin Freidhen (Former Keeper of the Chronicles, Darkfriend)
Tam al'Thor
Supporting
Rand's adoptive father, a source of unwavering love and wisdom.
Tam is Rand's adoptive father, a former soldier and a man of profound integrity and simple wisdom. He represents the grounding force of humanity and unconditional love in Rand's life. In 'The Gathering Storm,' his timely appearance at Rand's darkest moment on Dragonmount proves to be the catalyst for Rand's enlightenment and his return to sanity. Tam's steadfast love and gentle counsel remind Rand of what he is fighting for and prevent him from succumbing to ultimate despair and destruction.
Relationships: Rand al'Thor (Adoptive father)
Tuon
Supporting
Seanchan Empress-designate, leading the invasion of Tar Valon.
Tuon is the Daughter of the Nine Moons and Empress-designate of the Seanchan. She is a shrewd, ruthless, and highly intelligent leader, utterly devoted to Seanchan customs and the conquest of the Westlands. In 'The Gathering Storm,' she leads the Seanchan forces in their devastating invasion of Tar Valon. While a formidable antagonist, her character is complex, and her interactions with Mat Cauthon have introduced a humanizing element, though her primary focus remains on Seanchan expansion.
Relationships: Mat Cauthon (Husband (by Seanchan custom))
Cadsuane Melaidhrin
Supporting
Ancient and formidable Aes Sedai, attempting to guide Rand.
Cadsuane is one of the oldest and most respected Aes Sedai alive, known for her sharp wit, immense power, and unyielding will. She has taken on the task of guiding Rand al'Thor, often through unconventional and seemingly harsh methods, believing he needs to be broken of his arrogance. In 'The Gathering Storm,' her attempts to influence Rand are met with increasing resistance and anger from the hardened Dragon Reborn, as she struggles to understand the depth of his despair and the true nature of his internal battle.
Relationships: Rand al'Thor (Mentor/Protector (unwilling on Rand's part))
Min Farshaw
Supporting
Rand's lover, who sees glimpses of the future.
Min is one of Rand's three lovers, possessing the unique ability to see auras around people that foretell their future. She is fiercely loyal to Rand and deeply concerned by his descent into darkness. In 'The Gathering Storm,' she remains by his side, trying to offer comfort and insight, but struggles to break through his hardened exterior. Her love for him is unwavering, even as she witnesses his transformation into a cold and ruthless leader, and she fears for his soul.
Relationships: Rand al'Thor (Lover, confidante); Elayne Trakand (Co-lover, friend); Aviendha (Co-lover, friend)
Gawyn Trakand
Supporting
Commander of the Younglings, torn by loyalty and love.
Gawyn is Elayne's brother and a skilled swordsman, deeply in love with Egwene. His character is marked by internal conflict and a desire to do what is right, often leading him to make impulsive decisions. In 'The Gathering Storm,' he remains a loyal commander of the Younglings, but his devotion to Egwene and his anger over her perceived mistreatment by Rand (whom he blames for her capture) drive much of his actions. He struggles with his personal feelings versus his duty, often making choices that complicate the larger political landscape.
Relationships: Egwene al'Vere (Love interest); Elayne Trakand (Sister); Rand al'Thor (Rival, object of blame)
Themes & Insights
The Burden of Leadership and Power
This theme explores the psychological and moral toll that ultimate power and leadership demand. Rand al'Thor's journey is the central example, as he becomes increasingly isolated, ruthless, and detached, believing he must sacrifice his humanity to save the world. The weight of his destiny nearly breaks him, pushing him to despair. Egwene's leadership, while different, also highlights the sacrifices required, as she endures torture and imprisonment to unite the Aes Sedai. Both characters show how power, even for noble ends, can corrupt and isolate.
“The price of power is to live in a world where the only thing that matters is power.”
Redemption and Rebirth
Despite the pervasive darkness, the theme of redemption and rebirth appears, particularly with Rand al'Thor. His descent into despair is a necessary prelude to his enlightenment on Dragonmount. This moment is a spiritual and emotional rebirth, where he sheds his corrupted persona, integrates his past life, and reclaims his humanity. It signifies that even from darkness, hope and a renewed sense of purpose can emerge. Egwene's journey also reflects this, as her imprisonment and suffering lead to her emergence as a unified and respected Amyrlin, reborn from the White Tower's schism.
“The answer, Rand realized, was not to become the Shadow, but to embrace the Light. Not to destroy, but to create. Not to end, but to begin again.”
The Nature of Sacrifice
Sacrifice is a recurring idea, explored through various characters and their choices. Rand believes he must sacrifice his soul and humanity to defeat the Shadow, a path that nearly consumes him. Egwene willingly sacrifices her freedom and endures torture, understanding that her suffering is a necessary step to unify the Aes Sedai and save the White Tower. The novel questions the limits of sacrifice: when does it become self-destructive, and when is it a necessity? It suggests that true sacrifice is not giving up one's essence, but enduring hardship for a greater good without losing oneself.
“Sometimes, you have to sacrifice a part of yourself to save the whole. But you must never let the whole of yourself be lost.”
Unity in the Face of Adversity
This theme highlights the importance of unity, especially when facing an existential threat. The White Tower's internal schism and Elaida's incompetent rule leave it vulnerable to the Seanchan invasion, showing the dangers of division. Egwene's actions as a captive, her ability to inspire and unite both loyalist and rebel Aes Sedai during the siege, exemplify the power of a unified front. Rand's struggles to unite the nations also speak to this, as he realizes that a fractured world cannot stand against the Shadow's unified forces. The novel argues that only through collaboration and mutual trust can victory be achieved.
“A divided house cannot stand, and the Shadow cares nothing for our squabbles.”
The Cycle of Violence and Hope
The Wheel of Time's cyclical nature appears in the constant interplay between violence and hope. Rand's initial belief that only violence can defeat violence traps him in a destructive cycle. However, his epiphany at Dragonmount breaks this cycle, showing that hope, compassion, and creation are ultimately stronger than destruction. The novel explores how the world teeters between these two forces, with characters making choices that either perpetuate violence or strive to build a future founded on hope. The Last Battle is the culmination of this cycle, demanding a choice that transcends mere destruction.
“The world will always turn, and the Shadow will always return. But so too will the Light, and the hope of a new dawn.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The True Power
The Dark One's corrupted counterpart to the One Power.
The True Power is the Dark One's power, which Rand increasingly uses in 'The Gathering Storm.' Unlike the One Power, which draws from the True Source, the True Power draws directly from the Dark One, granting immense, albeit corrupting, strength. Its use manifests as a literal shadow around Rand's heart, symbolizing his descent into darkness and his growing ruthlessness. This device highlights the insidious nature of the Shadow and the moral compromises Rand believes he must make, driving his isolation and despair. It serves as a tangible representation of his internal struggle against corruption.
Dragonmount
A sacred and symbolic mountain, site of Rand's ultimate despair and enlightenment.
Dragonmount is a mountain formed by Lews Therin Telamon's suicide at the end of the Age of Legends, making it a place of immense symbolic weight for Rand. In 'The Gathering Storm,' Rand travels to Dragonmount intending to unleash a catastrophic amount of the One Power, mirroring his past incarnation's destructive act, but on a global scale. This setting becomes the crucible for his ultimate internal conflict, where he confronts his despair and ultimately experiences a profound enlightenment. It is a physical manifestation of his journey from suicidal despair to renewed purpose, a place of death and rebirth.
The Damane Collar (A'dam)
A Seanchan artifact used to enslave female channelers.
The a'dam is a powerful Seanchan ter'angreal used to control and enslave female channelers, turning them into 'damane.' In 'The Gathering Storm,' Egwene's capture and collaring by Elaida (who mistakenly believes it's a Seanchan device) and then later by the Seanchan themselves, is a central plot device. It symbolizes the ultimate subjugation and dehumanization of channelers, a fate considered worse than death by Aes Sedai. Egwene's ability to resist, endure, and even lead while collared highlights her immense strength and the indomitable spirit of the Aes Sedai, turning a tool of oppression into a platform for resistance.
The Taint on Saidin
The Dark One's corruption of the male half of the One Power.
The Taint on saidin is the Dark One's curse on the male half of the One Power, driving male channelers mad. While mostly cleansed in a previous book, its lingering psychological effects, particularly on Rand through the voice of Lews Therin, remain a potent plot device. It represents the inherent danger and historical tragedy associated with male channeling and contributes significantly to Rand's despair and isolation. Nynaeve's quest to find a complete cure for the madness further emphasizes its importance as a lingering threat and a critical obstacle to overcome before the Last Battle.
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What is the name of the series this book belongs to?
- The Dragon Reborn Saga
- The Wheel of Time
- The Last Battle Chronicles
- The Age of Prophecy
Show answer
B. The Wheel of Time The text explicitly states 'Robert Jordan's international bestselling series begins its dramatic conclusion' and refers to 'The Wheel of Time turns'.
Question 2
Who is the protagonist referred to as the Dragon Reborn?
- Brandon Sanderson
- Harriet McDougal
- Rand al'Thor
- Egwene al'Vere
Show answer
C. Rand al'Thor The text clearly states, 'Rand al'Thor, the Dragon Reborn, struggles to unite a fractured network of kingdoms...'
Question 3
What major event is looming at the end of the series?
- The Seanchan invasion
- The rise of the Shadow
- Tarmon Gai'don, the Last Battle
- The unification of all kingdoms
Show answer
C. Tarmon Gai'don, the Last Battle The text mentions, 'Tarmon Gai'don, the Last Battle, looms.'
Question 4
Who was chosen to complete the final volume after Robert Jordan's passing?
- Harriet McDougal
- Brandon Sanderson
- Robert Jordan's editor
- The author of the Mistborn books
Show answer
B. Brandon Sanderson The text states, 'Brandon Sanderson... was chosen by Jordan's editor--his wife, Harriet McDougal--to complete the final volume...'
Question 5
What is Egwene al'Vere's title within the rebel Aes Sedai?
- Dragon Reborn
- Amrylin Seat
- White Tower Leader
- Seanchan Captive
Show answer
B. Amrylin Seat The text identifies Egwene as 'Egwene al'Vere, the Amyrlin Seat of the rebel Aes Sedai'.
Question 6
What is the primary struggle Rand al'Thor faces regarding the Seanchan?
- He is trying to conquer them.
- He is trying to form a truce with them to unite against a greater threat.
- He is trying to escape their capture.
- He is negotiating an alliance with them.
Show answer
B. He is trying to form a truce with them to unite against a greater threat. The text says, 'As he attempts to halt the Seanchan encroachment northward--wishing he could form at least a temporary truce with the invaders--...'
Question 7
According to the text, what is a growing concern within Rand al'Thor himself?
- A loss of his powers
- A developing madness
- A growing shadow
- A desire for peace
Show answer
C. A growing shadow The passage states, '...his allies watch in terror the shadow that seems to be growing within the heart of the Dragon Reborn himself.'
Question 8
What is the significance of Egwene's conflict at the White Tower?
- It will determine the fate of the Seanchan.
- It will decide the future of the White Tower and possibly the world.
- It will prove the strength of the Dragon Reborn.
- It will lead to the immediate start of Tarmon Gai'don.
Show answer
B. It will decide the future of the White Tower and possibly the world. The text concludes, 'Her fight will prove the mettle of the Aes Sedai, and her conflict will decide the future of the White Tower--and possibly the world itself.'
Question 9
What does the text imply about the nature of the Wheel of Time's Ages?
- Each Age is entirely unique and never repeats.
- Memories and legends from past Ages are completely lost with each turn.
- Ages cycle, and elements of past Ages return, though often transformed into legend or myth.
- The Third Age is the first and only Age of Prophecy.
Show answer
C. Ages cycle, and elements of past Ages return, though often transformed into legend or myth. The opening lines describe the cycle: 'The Wheel of Time turns and Ages come and go, leaving memories that become legend. Legend fades to myth, and even myth is long forgotten when the Age that gave it birth returns again.' This suggests a cyclical nature where elements recur.
Question 10
What is the primary reason Brandon Sanderson was chosen to finish the series?
- He was a close friend of Robert Jordan.
- He had previously written a fantasy series about the Last Battle.
- He was selected by Robert Jordan's editor and wife to continue Jordan's work.
- He was the most popular fantasy author at the time.
Show answer
C. He was selected by Robert Jordan's editor and wife to continue Jordan's work. The text states, 'Brandon Sanderson... was chosen by Jordan's editor--his wife, Harriet McDougal--to complete the final volume...'. This highlights the editorial and personal connection rather than Sanderson's personal popularity or prior works.
The Gathering Storm FAQ
What is The Gathering Storm about?
The Gathering Storm is the eleventh book in The Wheel of Time series and the first of the concluding volumes. It deals with the escalating preparations for the Last Battle, Tarmon Gai'don, and the internal struggles of key characters like Rand al'Thor and Egwene al'Vere as the world teeters on the brink of destruction.
Who wrote The Gathering Storm?
The Gathering Storm was primarily written by Robert Jordan before his passing. It was completed by Brandon Sanderson, who was chosen by Jordan's wife and editor, Harriet McDougal, to finish the series.
What is the significance of The Gathering Storm in The Wheel of Time series?
As the first book in the concluding arc of The Wheel of Time, The Gathering Storm marks the beginning of the end. It sets the stage for Tarmon Gai'don and focuses on the immense pressure and difficult choices faced by the protagonists as the Last Battle approaches.
What are the main plot points in The Gathering Storm?
The book follows Rand al'Thor's efforts to unite fractured kingdoms and prepare for the Last Battle, while also dealing with the growing darkness within himself. Meanwhile, Egwene al'Vere, as the Amyrlin Seat, navigates political intrigue and resistance within the White Tower while facing external threats.
How does Brandon Sanderson's writing differ from Robert Jordan's in The Gathering Storm?
While Sanderson aimed to stay true to Jordan's vision, readers often note subtle differences in pacing and prose. Sanderson's writing is generally considered more direct and faster-paced, while Jordan's was known for its intricate world-building and detailed descriptions.
What is the role of Rand al'Thor in The Gathering Storm?
Rand al'Thor, the Dragon Reborn, is struggling to consolidate power and prepare the world for the Last Battle. He faces immense pressure and the difficult task of uniting disparate factions, all while battling a growing darkness within himself.
What is Egwene al'Vere's situation in The Gathering Storm?
Egwene al'Vere is the Amyrlin Seat of the rebel Aes Sedai. In this book, she is a captive of the White Tower and must contend with its tyrannical leader, working to maintain unity among the Aes Sedai and lead them through uncertain times.
Is The Gathering Storm a good starting point for The Wheel of Time series?
No, The Gathering Storm is the eleventh book in a long-running series. It is essential to read the preceding ten books to understand the characters, plot, and world-building that lead up to this critical point in the story.
What is Tarmon Gai'don?
Tarmon Gai'don, also known as the Last Battle, is the prophesied final confrontation between the forces of Light and the Shadow, marking the culmination of the struggle against the Dark One in The Wheel of Time.
What are the Seanchan in The Gathering Storm?
The Seanchan are an invading empire from across the sea who are encroaching northward. Their presence creates a significant external threat that Rand al'Thor must contend with, even as he wishes for a temporary truce.
About the author
James Oliver Rigney Jr., better known by his pen name Robert Jordan, was an American author of epic fantasy. He is known best for his series The Wheel of Time which comprises 14 books and a prequel novel. He is one of several writers to have written original Conan the Barbarian novels; his are considered by fans to be some of the best of the non-Robert E. Howard efforts. Jordan also published historical fiction using the pseudonym Reagan O'Neal, a western as Jackson O'Reilly, and dance criticism as Chang Lung. Jordan claimed to have ghostwritten an "international thriller" that is still believed to have been written by someone else.
Similar books
- The Way of Kings
Brandon Sanderson
4.6 (305k) average on GoodreadsFantasyWhile both 'The Gathering Storm' and 'The Way of Kings' showcase Brandon Sanderson's strengths in world-building, intricate magic systems, and epic scope, 'The Way of Kings' benefits from being an entirely original work. In 'The Gathering Storm,' Sanderson is constrained by existing characterizations and plotlines, leading to some of the aforementioned inconsistencies. 'The Way of Kings' also features a slower, more deliberate build-up of its world and characters, allowing for deeper immersion, whereas 'The Gathering Storm' is necessarily focused on accelerating an already established narrative.
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
J.K. Rowling
4.5 (7M) average on GoodreadsFantasyRescued from a miserable life under the stairs, an orphaned boy discovers he's a wizard destined for a magical school, where he uncovers a dangerous secret tied to the dark wizard who murdered his parents.
- The Hunger Games
Suzanne Collins
4.3 (6.4M) average on GoodreadsFantasyIn a future where children fight to the death on live television, Katniss Everdeen volunteers for the arena, turning a death sentence into a fight for survival and a spark of rebellion.
- 1984
George Orwell
4.2 (3.1M) average on GoodreadsPoliticsIn a future where surveillance and thought control are absolute, a man's search for truth clashes with the Party, showing that hope can be a form of rebellion.
- Divergent
Veronica Roth
4.2 (2.9M) average on GoodreadsFantasyIn a society divided by virtues, a sixteen-year-old's difference from the norm starts a rebellion that threatens her world.
- The Hobbit, or There and Back Again
J.R.R. Tolkien
4.3 (2.9M) average on GoodreadsFantasyA comfort-loving hobbit named Bilbo Baggins is whisked away by a mischievous wizard and a band of dwarves on an unexpected journey to reclaim stolen treasure from a fearsome dragon, discovering courage and a magical ring along the way.
Enjoyed the summary?
A summary gives you the shape of the book. The book itself has the detail, the examples and the voice.
Find The Gathering Storm on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, BookBrief earns from qualifying purchases. How we're funded