What Is The Best Order To Read Wheel Of Time Series Books?

As a longtime fantasy reader who has delved deep into epic sagas, I can confidently say 'The Wheel of Time' series by Robert Jordan (and later Brandon Sanderson) is one of the most expansive and intricate worlds in literature. The series consists of 14 main novels, with the first book, 'The Eye of the World,' published in 1990 and the final installment, 'A Memory of Light,' released in 2013. The journey spans decades, both in real-world publication and in the lives of its characters, making it a monumental undertaking for any reader. The sheer scale of the narrative, with its countless perspectives and intricate plotting, is something that has captivated fans for generations. Beyond the core novels, there’s also a prequel titled 'New Spring,' which explores the backstory of key characters like Moiraine and Lan. While not essential to the main plot, it adds rich layers to the lore. What’s fascinating about 'The Wheel of Time' is how it blends classic fantasy tropes with unique twists—like the concept of the Wheel itself, which weaves the Pattern of ages. The series has inspired countless other works, from games to TV adaptations, and its influence is undeniable. For anyone diving in, be prepared for a marathon, not a sprint—this is a world that demands immersion.

'The Wheel of Time' is one of those epic sagas that keeps coming up. The books were originally published by Tor Books, a division of Macmillan Publishers, known for their fantastic fantasy and sci-fi catalog. Tor has been the home for Robert Jordan's masterpiece since the first book, 'The Eye of the World,' hit the shelves in 1990. They’ve done an incredible job maintaining the series' legacy, even after Jordan's passing, with Brandon Sanderson stepping in to complete the final books based on Jordan's notes. The covers, the hardcovers, the paperbacks—they’ve all been handled by Tor, and they’ve kept the spirit of the series alive beautifully. If you’re a collector, you’ll notice how Tor’s editions have evolved over the years, but the quality has always been top-notch.

As a longtime fantasy enthusiast, I've always been fascinated by the rich world-building in 'The Wheel of Time' series. The mastermind behind this epic saga is Robert Jordan, a pen name for James Oliver Riven Jr. He began writing the series in the late 1980s, with the first book, 'The Eye of the World,' published in 1990. The series spans 14 main novels, with Jordan writing up to 'Knife of Dreams' before his untimely passing in 2007. The final three books were completed by Brandon Sanderson, based on Jordan's extensive notes. The series is a cornerstone of modern fantasy, blending intricate politics, deep lore, and unforgettable characters. I remember picking up 'The Eye of the World' years ago and being instantly hooked by its blend of traditional fantasy tropes and fresh twists. Jordan's ability to weave multiple storylines across continents is unparalleled. The series' publication timeline is almost as epic as the story itself, stretching from 1990 to 2013. It's a testament to Jordan's vision that the series remained compelling even after his death, with Sanderson honoring his legacy beautifully.

'The Wheel of Time' is one of those series that feels like a second home. Robert Jordan crafted this sprawling world with such depth, and it's no surprise the series spans 14 main books. That includes the final one, 'A Memory of Light', which Brandon Sanderson finished after Jordan's passing. There's also a prequel, 'New Spring', which adds another layer to the story. The sheer scale of the series is part of its charm, with each book diving deeper into the lives of characters like Rand, Mat, and Perrin. It's a commitment, but every page is worth it.

As a longtime fantasy enthusiast, I've spent countless hours immersed in Robert Jordan's epic 'The Wheel of Time' series. This sprawling saga consists of 14 main novels, beginning with 'The Eye of the World' in 1990 and concluding with 'A Memory of Light' in 2013. What makes this series particularly fascinating is how Brandon Sanderson took over writing duties after Jordan's passing, completing the final three books based on extensive notes. The series also includes a prequel novel titled 'New Spring', which brings the total count to 15 books if you include it. The sheer scale of Jordan's world-building is staggering, with over 4 million words across the entire series - more than enough to keep any fantasy lover occupied for months.

I've been a fantasy enthusiast for years, and 'The Wheel of Time' series by Robert Jordan is one of those epic sagas that feels like a second home. The Kindle edition follows the same structure as the physical copies, totaling 14 main books in the series. That includes the prequel, 'New Spring,' which adds depth to the world-building. The main sequence starts with 'The Eye of the World' and concludes with 'A Memory of Light,' which was completed by Brandon Sanderson after Jordan's passing. Each book is a massive tome, often exceeding 800 pages, so Kindle readers should brace for a long but rewarding journey. The series is divided into distinct arcs, with the first six books focusing on Rand al'Thor’s rise as the Dragon Reborn. Books 7 through 10 slow the pace slightly, delving into political intrigue and character development, while the final four ramp up toward the Last Battle. The Kindle versions often include supplemental materials like glossaries and maps, which are invaluable for tracking the sprawling cast and locations. Some editions bundle the books into omnibus formats, but these are unofficial compilations—the core count remains 14. For completionists, there’s also 'The World of Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time,' an encyclopedia-style companion, but it’s separate from the main series. The Kindle store occasionally lists it alongside the novels, so it’s easy to mistake as a 15th entry. The series’ length might seem daunting, but the depth of Jordan’s storytelling makes it a cornerstone of fantasy literature. If you’re diving in, I’d recommend bookmarking the glossary—you’ll need it to keep up with the Aes Sedai and Forsaken.

I can confidently say the main characters are a richly woven tapestry of personalities that drive the epic narrative. At the heart of it all is Rand al'Thor, the Dragon Reborn, whose journey from a simple farm boy to a world-shaping figure is both tragic and awe-inspiring. Alongside him are Mat Cauthon, the luck-driven rogue with a sharp wit, and Perrin Aybara, the quiet blacksmith who grapples with his connection to wolves. Egwene al'Vere evolves from a village girl to the powerful Amyrlin Seat, embodying resilience and leadership. Nynaeve al'Meara, initially stubborn and fiery, grows into a wisdom far beyond her years. Moiraine Damodred, the Aes Sedai who sets everything in motion, remains a pivotal force. Then there’s Lan Mandragoran, the stoic warder whose loyalty and strength are unmatched. Each character’s arc intertwines beautifully, creating a saga that feels alive and endlessly compelling.

I can confidently say that 'The Wheel of Time' series by Robert Jordan (and later Brandon Sanderson) has an excellent audiobook version. The narration by Michael Kramer and Kate Reading is phenomenal—they bring the vast world of Rand al’Thor and the Aes Sedai to life with distinct voices and emotional depth. Listening to the audiobook feels like immersing yourself in a high-production fantasy drama, especially with the detailed world-building and complex characters. For fans who prefer multitasking or have visual impairments, the audiobooks are a fantastic alternative. The series spans 14 main books plus a prequel, so there’s plenty of content to enjoy. The narrators’ consistency across the entire series makes it easy to follow, even during the slower-paced political arcs. If you’re new to epic fantasy audiobooks, this is a great place to start—just be prepared for a long but rewarding journey.