The Eye of the World (1990) by Robert Jordan is the first book in the monumental Wheel of Time series, an epic fantasy saga that follows Rand al’Thor and his friends from the rural village of Emond’s Field as they are thrust into a world-spanning conflict between light and shadow.

When their home is attacked by monstrous Trollocs and a sinister Fade, Rand, Mat, Perrin, and their friends flee under the protection of Moiraine, an Aes Sedai (a powerful female channeler), and her warrior-guardian Lan. Moiraine believes one of the youths might be the Dragon Reborn, a prophesied savior (or destroyer) destined to battle the Dark One.

Their journey takes them through blighted lands, ancient ruins, and encounters with mythic forces, including the enigmatic Min, the warrior-maiden Nynaeve, and the thief Thom Merrilin. Jordan’s worldbuilding—rich with prophecies, political intrigue, and a magic system tied to the gendered One Power—sets the stage for a 14-book series that redefined epic fantasy.

For fans of: The Lord of the Rings’ scope, Game of Thrones’ depth, or Brandon Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive.New Spring: The Novel

Wheel of Time Series:

#1 The Eye of the World
#2 The Great Hunt
#3 The Dragon Reborn
#4 The Shadow Rising
#5 The Fires of Heaven
#6 Lord of Chaos
#7 A Crown of Swords
#8 The Path of Daggers
#9 Winter’s Heart
#10 Crossroads of Twilight
#11 Knife of Dreams