Originally reviewed on "http://bloodcrossed.blogspot.com&quot... Bloody Words. 
 Book: The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan 
 Genre: Epic Fantasy 
 Rating: 9 out of 10 
 Buzzword: ...EPIC 
 Theme Song: "Lux Aeterna" by Clint Mansell 
 Favorite Quote: "There are neither beginnings or endings to the turning of the Wheel of Time. 
 But it was a beginning." 
 Pros: 
 Incredibly deep and realistic fantasy world 
 Great characters and development 
 Each word is masterfully crafted 
 Vision of good and evil is very complex and engrossing 
 Cons: 
 It's very LONG. 
 For about the first 300 pages, I was bored to tears 
 Summary: In the peaceful farming town of Emond's Field, three young men are living uneventful, normal lives. But when their homes are attacked by hordes of beastly Trollocs and demonic Fades, they must trust the word of a mysterious woman to guide them to safety, if there is such a thing. Their journey takes them halfway across their world as they run from the powers of the Shadow. 
 Review: It's no secret that I despise epic fantasy. In general I can't even bear to read it. The things we do for love... 
 Well, I'm glad I stuck with it this time. Once I got past the first 350 pages or so, the action started. And from then on... it didn't stop. It took me three times as long to read those 350 pages than to read the remaining 400. But, it was worth it. 
 I never doubted that Jordan is an incredible writer. He weaves words that transport you into a landscape, an emotion, an event so completely that you feel as if you are really there. Never is there a misstep in the flow of prose or dialogue. Every word is in the perfect place. If you want an example of how writing should look, read Robert Jordan. 
 I was interested in the characters from about the midway point in the story. Before that they hadn't changed from simpleton farm boys. But once they came into their own, so to speak, I was very invested. I can't wait to read the sequel and find out what happens. Also I'm pretty sure I'm in love with Perrin. 
 Then there is the overarching story: the eternal, repeating conflict of the Light and the Shadow. Jordan has created his own spiritual reality that seems just as believable as any view of the real world. It's a world where magic is real, but it is a spiritual undertaking. And beyond all other concerns, the best part of this book is the blurry line between good and evil. There really are no "good guys," and you can't trust that he won't kill off the heroes if that's "what the Pattern weaves." 
 I highly recommend this book, even for people who normally aren't drawn to fantasy. If you can get past the lengthy exposition, the rest of the story will prove to be well worth the wait.