Author: Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson

Title: Towers of Midnight

Publisher: Tor Books

Towers of Midnight, the long awaited thirteenth volume of Robert Jordan's epic fantasy novels, is finally here. Marking yet another step closer to the series end, it's no surprise that the new book is met with a lot of high expectations.

The Wheel of Time has long been applauded for being one of the best fantasy series in the business, having garnered a large following and selling millions of copies worldwide. Still, the final books have encountered their share of challenges along the way, most notable being the death of author Robert Jordan in September 2007.

With the Last Battle looming on the horizon and new writer Brandon Sanderson stepping in to take the reigns, readers have good reason to be nervous. In many ways Towers of Midnight serves as the answer to a serious question; will this beloved series get the grand sendoff it deserves, or has it sunk to the levels of hasty fan-service?

If you're not familiar with the Wheel of Time series, you probably shouldn't even bother picking up the new book. With twelve other novels preceding it, most of them amounting to a hefty 800 pages each, there's not a chance you'll understand the plotline or terminologies.

On top of everything is Jordan's mastery of storytelling. The late author's ability to weave complex events, twists, and questions together into one cohesive story is nothing short of mind boggling. There are literally hundreds of characters to follow, and you never know when a minor bystander in one book will become a major player in the next. Towers of Midnight is no exception to this rule, even with Brandon Sanderson behind the pen.

If you're still interested in the novel's plot, buckle up and hold on tight, because here it comes. The seals on the Dark One's (The name is self-explanatory) prison are crumbling, and the heroes of The Wheel series scramble wildly to prepare for the oncoming invasion. Rand al'Thor, (a messiah figure known as the Dragon Reborn) has finally mastered his madness and embraced his destiny as savior of the world. Now he must marshal his forces to prepare for the final battle, but does he have enough time to mend his past mistakes before they come back to haunt him?

Meanwhile, Perrin Aybara (another main protagonist) must finally confront the zealous Whitecloaks, (think the Spanish inquisition) now lead by Galad Damodred (yet another series regular), on charges of being a murderer and Darkfriend (Not A good thing). The Dark One's henchman, Graendal, (No, not the monster from Beowulf) is also still at large, scheming behind the scenes and waiting for the right moment to unleash her fury on the unsuspecting heroes. (Are you confused yet?)                   

The story is a perfect edition to the Wheel of Time series. There are plenty of pitched battles, the fulfillment of a few prophecies', and the resolution to an old conspiracy that has long been debated amongst fans. Not only that, but readers will finally discover the fate of Moraine, a blue-shawled heroine who was believed to have perished early on in the series. It's a lot to absorb, but then again every Wheel book is, and it's nice to see not much has changed concerning content.

The writing is both rich and complex. Familiar imagery and a well worked setting keep Towers of Midnight anchored and enjoyable. Brandon himself adds a note of freshness to the book that hasn't been felt in a long time. The words are still very much Jordan's work, as fans of the series will no doubt discover, but the pace has more spring in its step then past books have had. It's a small but effective change, and readers will probably be grateful they no longer have to endure pages of dull monotony.

Fan opinions may differ, but overall Towers of Midnight it proves itself worthy of being added to the Wheel of Time series. If you're an old friend to these books and are looking to continue the adventure, go ahead and pick up a copy, you won't be disappointed.             

**This Review First Published Nov. 15, 2010