The Wheel of Time books should be read in publication order for the best understanding and enjoyment of the series. This epic fantasy story spans 14 main books written by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson, plus a prequel. The series has an intricate story, deep world-building, and many characters that connect across every book.
If you want to experience the full story without missing important events, you can find a clear list of the Wheel of Time books in order by publication from trusted sources like Book Series In Order and Order To Read. With the right reading order, you can follow the journey from the very first page to the last, seeing how every book fits together.
Wheels of Time Books in Order
Understanding the order of the Wheel of Time books helps you follow the story as it was released. There are a few different ways to read the series, and knowing the distinction between the main series and the prequel novel makes it easier to choose where to start.
Chronological Order of Publication
The Wheel of Time series consists of 14 main books, starting with The Eye of the World in 1990, and ending with A Memory of Light in 2013. There is also a prequel novel called New Spring, published in 2004.
Here is the order in which the books were published:
- The Eye of the World (1990)
- The Great Hunt (1990)
- The Dragon Reborn (1991)
- The Shadow Rising (1992)
- The Fires of Heaven (1993)
- Lord of Chaos (1994)
- A Crown of Swords (1996)
- The Path of Daggers (1998)
- Winter’s Heart (2000)
- Crossroads of Twilight (2003)
- New Spring (prequel, 2004)
- Knife of Dreams (2005)
- The Gathering Storm (2009)
- Towers of Midnight (2010)
- A Memory of Light (2013)
This is the order in which most readers first experienced the story.
Recommended Reading Order
You may wonder whether to read the prequel before or after the main series. Most longtime fans and readers suggest starting with The Eye of the World (book one), then reading straight through to A Memory of Light. After finishing the main story, you can go back and read New Spring for extra background.
Following the publication order is the most common advice. It lets you discover the plot and the characters the way the author intended. Some readers do choose to read New Spring between books 10 and 11 to match its publication, but this is not required.
If you prefer to read chronologically, you can start with New Spring and then continue with The Eye of the World. However, some important moments and references in the prequel make more sense if you already know certain main series characters.
Main Series vs. Prequel Novel
The main Wheel of Time series includes 14 books. These books tell the main story and develop the arcs of the central characters, including Rand al’Thor, Mat Cauthon, Egwene al’Vere, and Perrin Aybara.
The prequel, New Spring, takes place about 20 years before the events of The Eye of the World. It focuses on Moiraine Damodred and Lan Mandragoran before they meet the main cast. While not necessary to enjoy the main series, the prequel adds extra details and background about Aes Sedai politics and the world’s history.
If your goal is to experience the full story arc, start with the main series. Only pick up New Spring if you want more context or if you finish the main books and are curious about key events in the past.
Author Background and Series Overview
The Wheel of Time started with Robert Jordan, whose detailed storytelling shaped an entire genre. After Jordan’s passing, Brandon Sanderson finished the journey with the final three books, bringing a fresh yet respectful voice. The series is known for its intricate world, large cast of characters, and themes about fate, power, and the fight between light and darkness.
Robert Jordan’s Legacy
Robert Jordan, born James Oliver Rigney Jr., was an experienced writer who served in the U.S. Army. His military background influenced the series, especially the realistic battles and politics. He began The Wheel of Time in the late 1980s, developing an epic story that blends mythology, history, and original worldbuilding.
Jordan’s writing stands out for its deep world, full of cultures, languages, and histories. He wove together complex plots, and his attention to detail made the world believable. Readers appreciate his characters, such as Rand al’Thor, Egwene al’Vere, and Mat Cauthon, who grow and change over time.
The Wheel of Time was first planned as a trilogy but eventually grew to fourteen main books and a prequel. Jordan’s popularity rose quickly, and his books became bestsellers, earning praise for their creativity and ambition.
Brandon Sanderson’s Contribution
After Robert Jordan died in 2007, the series was incomplete. Jordan’s wife and editor, Harriet McDougal, chose Brandon Sanderson, already known for his own fantasy books, to finish the story. Sanderson used Jordan’s notes, outlines, and drafts to write the final three books: The Gathering Storm, Towers of Midnight, and A Memory of Light.
Sanderson respected Jordan’s style but brought his own strengths—like fast pacing and clear action. Many readers found the ending both satisfying and true to the original vision. His work helped introduce the series to new fans while bringing closure to long-time readers.
The combined efforts of both authors created a unified narrative, allowing the series to keep its original tone while reaching a natural and powerful ending.
Central Themes of the Series
The Wheel of Time explores fate versus free will, the struggle between good and evil, and the corruption of power. Reincarnation is a core idea, as characters are reborn through time, guided by a cosmic force called the Wheel.
Another strong theme is balance—especially between male and female power. The magic system, called the One Power, has both male and female halves, which shapes the world’s politics, religions, and conflicts.
War, leadership, personal growth, and sacrifice are also shown through multi-layered characters facing moral and ethical dilemmas. Friendship, loyalty, and hope persist, even against impossible odds. These themes make the series relatable while still being deeply rooted in high fantasy.
Major Story Arcs Across the Series
You follow the journey of Rand al’Thor and his friends as they face powerful enemies and uncover lost secrets. Big conflicts grow over time, leading to battles that change the fate of the world.
The Dragon Reborn Saga
At the start of the series, you meet Rand, Mat, Perrin, Egwene, and Nynaeve in the small village of Emond’s Field. Their lives change forever when Trollocs attack, forcing them to leave home with Moiraine, a member of the powerful Aes Sedai.
As the journey continues, each character discovers unique abilities. Rand learns he can channel the One Power, a gift that marks him as the Dragon Reborn—the prophesied hero and destroyer. You see his struggle with leadership and fear of madness. Mat faces the dangers of cursed artifacts, while Perrin explores his wolf connection.
During this time, many lands are introduced, including the White Tower, Fal Dara, and Cairhien. Enemies like the Dark One’s followers and the mysterious Forsaken start to threaten the world. Important artifacts and prophecies push Rand and his friends forward, shaping the beginning of their roles in the war against the Shadow.
The Shadow Rising and Beyond
Rand’s power grows, and he takes on greater challenges. He learns about the Aiel, a warrior people, and leads them through the Aiel Waste. The quest to unite nations and prevent the Dark One’s rise creates tension, bringing new allies and fierce enemies. Egwene becomes a strong leader among the Aes Sedai, leading the rebel group based in Salidar.
Major cities like Tear, Ebou Dar, and Caemlyn become key battlegrounds. You witness battles for thrones and the hunt for magical objects, such as the Bowl of the Winds, which helps to fix the world’s strange weather. The Forsaken plot in the shadows, using politics and power to block Rand and his friends.
Throughout these books, leadership becomes more complicated. Characters struggle with betrayal, secrets, and hard choices. The world grows larger, drawing in Sea Folk, Wise Ones, and the Seanchan—a new threat from across the ocean.
Last Battle and Series Finale
The final books focus on the Last Battle, called Tarmon Gai’don. Rand gathers rulers and armies to stand against the Dark One’s massive forces. Every major character is pushed to their limits, and alliances are tested as battles break out everywhere—from river crossings to the legendary city of Tar Valon.
Mat leads his army with unique tactics, while Perrin fights to control the wolf dream, Tel’aran’rhiod, to protect his loved ones. Egwene’s leadership becomes crucial at the White Tower. You watch as long-running mysteries are solved and many character arcs conclude.
The last conflict between Rand and the Dark One shapes the future. Sacrifices are made, victories are earned, and the Wheel turns. Resolution comes as the world begins to heal, and new leaders step forward to guide the ages ahead.
Collecting and Editions of Wheels of Time
You can enjoy The Wheel of Time series in different formats to fit your reading style and budget. Some prefer complete box sets or special editions for collecting, while others choose audiobooks and digital options for convenience.
Box Sets and Special Editions
Several box sets are available that feature all fourteen main books plus the prequel. These collections often come in matching hardback or paperback versions, making them attractive for readers who want a uniform look on their shelves.
Some special editions include unique cover art, slipcases, or bonus material such as maps and glossaries. Fans who value display and limited content should look for collector’s editions from major publishers. For example, complete sets from Juniper Books provide every novel in one package with themed covers.
A table can help you compare common options:
| Type | Contents | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Box Set | All 14 books + prequel | Uniform covers |
| Collector’s Editions | Select volumes | Bonus art, slipcases |
| Hardcover Collections | All main books | Higher durability |
Buying a box set is usually more affordable than getting each book by itself. You also avoid mismatched covers and editions.
Audiobooks and Digital Formats
Every Wheel of Time book is available as an audiobook, read by professional narrators. Audiobooks are useful when you want to listen on the go, whether in the car or at home.
You can buy digital versions for e-readers and tablets from major online retailers. Ebooks let you carry the whole series easily and can be less expensive than physical editions.
Many readers enjoy digital formats for features like adjustable text size, search tools, and integrated dictionaries. Audiobooks can also help with tricky pronunciations and character names, which is useful in a fantasy series with many unique terms.
Subscriptions like Audible or Kindle Unlimited may offer the series as part of their catalog, giving you flexible options for reading or listening.
Related Media and Adaptations
You can find The Wheel of Time not only as a book series, but in other formats too. Fans have enjoyed a big-budget TV series, and collectors can explore graphic novel versions of the story.
Television Series Adaptation
The Wheel of Time TV series premiered on Amazon Prime Video in November 2021. Rosamund Pike stars as Moiraine, and the show adapts the main storyline from the books. The first season covers some events from the early novels, especially “The Eye of the World.”
The series stands out for its large cast, high production value, and world-building. Some storylines and characters have been changed or streamlined for television. These changes help new viewers follow the story but may differ from the books.
The Wheel of Time TV series has been renewed for additional seasons. The show brings both longtime readers and new fans to the world of Rand al’Thor and his friends.
Comics and Graphic Novels
The Wheel of Time has also been adapted into comics and graphic novels. The first to be released was “The Eye of the World” graphic novel series. This adaptation is split into volumes, breaking down the story into shorter segments.
The comic adaptations tell the main events faithfully, using detailed art to show characters and locations. These books offer a different way to experience the story if you enjoy visual storytelling. Each chapter is drawn with careful attention to detail, making settings like Emond’s Field and Shadar Logoth come alive.
Collectors can find these graphic novel adaptations both in bookstores and online. Publication began in 2009, and most of the storyline from the first novel has been covered. These works allow you to experience the Wheel of Time world through vivid illustrations and concise dialogue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proper sequence to read The Wheel of Time series?
You should read The Wheel of Time books in their publication order for the best experience. This is the most common way fans read the series because you follow the story as it was originally released.
How many books are there in The Wheel of Time series?
There are fifteen main books in The Wheel of Time series. This includes fourteen core novels and one prequel novel, New Spring.
Can The Wheel of Time books be read as standalone novels or should they be read sequentially?
You should read The Wheel of Time books in sequence. Each book builds on events and characters from the previous ones. Reading out of order may cause confusion and spoil important plot points.
What is the chronological order of The Wheel of Time books including prequels and companion books?
Chronologically, the prequel New Spring comes before the first book, The Eye of the World. The fourteen main novels then follow in their published sequence. Companion books, like The World of Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time, contain extra details but are not part of the main storyline.
Is there a recommended reading order for The Wheel of Time books for better understanding?
Most readers and experts suggest reading the books in publication order, starting with The Eye of the World and ending with A Memory of Light. The prequel New Spring can be read before or after the main series, depending on your preference.