The Great Hunt by Robert Jordan is a sweeping and ambitious follow-up to The Eye of the World. The novel picks up where the previous book left off, with an even greater sense of urgency and peril. The stakes are higher this time around, as the protagonists find themselves embroiled in a deadly hunt for an ancient artifact that could tip the balance of power between good and evil.
The world-building continues to be a highlight of the book, with Jordan expanding on the mythology and lore that was introduced in the first novel. I love learning about all the different cultures of this world as well. The characters are also given greater depth and nuance, with their motivations and flaws becoming more prominent. They struggle with who they are becoming, and in trying to find acceptance for who that is.
The Great Hunt is not without its flaws, however. Like its predecessor, this chonk can be slow at times, with lengthy exposition and detailed descriptions of minor characters and events. Despite its drawbacks, The Great Hunt is a strong continuation of the Wheel of Time series. Highly recommended for fans of epic fantasy, and authors like Brandon Sanderson, RA Salvatore, and Brent Weeks.
***Purchased and read for my own enjoyment.