This books easily tops The Dragon Reborn. It's more eventful, exciting, and progressive than any of the last ones. Rand, Mat, and Perrin are not the same boys from the first book. They've really grown and owned up to some of the things they have to do (although reluctantly). Even some places go through big changes, but those are things you have to see for yourself. It really makes me want to see what happens in the next book. There is so much that goes on in this series to talk about, so much that I can't think of them all at once. Even if I did say it, I would have to go through a lot of explanations which would lead to spoilers. Also, this book is now my number one favorite fantasy book. The Fires of Heaven will probably top it, but for now The Shadow Rising is winning.