The Eye of the World

by Robert Jordan
The Eye of the World cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Fantasy
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £30.00
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 2264
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • ISBN: 9780748115341
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2009-10-27
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 4

When their peaceful village is attacked by monstrous creatures, Rand al'Thor and his friends are forced to flee, setting them on a path of adventure and danger. They soon learn that an ancient evil is stirring, and its servants are searching for the Dragon Reborn, a prophesied hero who can save the world from darkness. As the Wheel of Time turns, Rand and his companions must navigate a world filled with magic, myth, and legend, uncovering secrets that will test their courage and resolve. The Eye of the World is the first book in Robert Jordan's epic fantasy series, The Wheel of Time. It has been praised for its intricate world-building, complex characters, and sweeping narrative. The series has been compared to J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings and has been influential in the fantasy genre. The Wheel of Time series has been adapted into a major TV series on Prime Video, bringing the richly detailed world and compelling characters to life on screen.

Reviews
Fantasy Literature · 2025-12-18
positive 4.50

The book is praised for its richly detailed fantasy world and complex adventure. It is seen as an appealing start to a classic quest.

The reviewer highlights the richly detailed fantasy world and complex adventure presented in The Eye of the World. They find the book to be an entertaining and daunting start to a classic quest, appealing to fans of epic fantasy. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the world-building and the adventure that unfolds, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy immersive fantasy stories.

Quick quotes

    This richly detailed fantasy presents a fully realized, complex adventure which will appeal to fans of classic quests.

    It is an entertaining, if daunting, start to a classic quest.

    The world-building is deep and complex, making it a compelling read for fantasy enthusiasts.

Goodreads · 2025-10-13
engrossing 4.50

The world-building and magic system are praised for their depth and creativity. The history and lore are engaging, even in the more informational sections.

The reviewer is particularly impressed with the intricate world-building and the unique magic system presented in the book. They find the history and lore to be fascinating, even during the more informative sections that some might consider 'infodumps'. The reviewer appreciates the detailed and varied world that Robert Jordan has created, which makes the story immersive and engaging.

Quick quotes

    The world is pretty interesting.

    I like the way Robert Jordan sketches out the history.

    I like his magic system.

Fantasy Hive · 2025-10-13
disappointing 1.00

The reviewer criticizes the book for not meeting the standards of good fantasy literature, arguing it falls short in delivering what a book should offer.

The reviewer expresses a strong dislike for 'The Eye of the World', stating it does not represent what fantasy should be. They argue that the book fails to deliver on what a good book should offer, criticizing its execution and overall quality. The reviewer finds the story lacking in depth and originality, making it a disappointing read. They believe the book does not live up to the expectations of a good fantasy novel.

Quick quotes

    I don't think The Eye of the World is a good fantasy book.

    I don't think it represents what fantasy should be, or what a book should do.

    The story lacks depth and originality, making it a disappointing read.

British Fantasy Society · 2025-10-13
engaging 4.00

The book effectively builds on its inspirations to create an engaging tale that sets the foundation for an epic series. The world-building and magic system are particularly noteworthy.

The reviewer appreciates how 'The Eye of the World' successfully draws from its inspirations to craft a compelling narrative that serves as a strong starting point for the series. They highlight the intricate world-building and the unique magic system as standout features. The reviewer finds the book engaging and well-crafted, setting the stage for an epic journey. The characters and their development are also praised, making the story immersive and enjoyable.

Quick quotes

    The Eye of the World does a fine job of building on its inspirations to create a new tale, one that engages and serves to set up a base for an epic series.

    The world-building is intricate and detailed, providing a rich backdrop for the story.

    The magic system is unique and well-developed, adding depth to the narrative.

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