The Gathering Storm carries on from the point Jordan left off. Sanderson's first book in the series is a success. There are some differences in style, but I like them both. Jordan's is heavier; you feel the sense of a story needing to be told. He is the bard. Sanderson's is much lighter, more of a popular read (which is okay, since it is a long book; it moves faster). He still tells a good tale, but not with the same eloquence. The only complaint I have about the book is it seems that with every scene change there are comments about the weather. We get the point after a few; don't need a reference each time.

• Semirhage in captivity.


• Farmers and town people alike see The Battle is approaching. The turning of plows into weapons and mass migration.


• Faile takes care of the Prophet.


• Rand argues with Lews Therin. He needs to know the knowledge that Lews holds. All of it.


• Egwene comes near to convincing the Tar Valon Aes Sedai, until the chaos starts.


• Peace must be made with the Seanchan. To that end, Rand sends the troops of Arad Doman to the Borderlands.


• Egwene speaks with the Sitters who are rooting out Black Ajah and learns of their oath of obedience.


• Gawyn leaves his post, in an attempt to save Egwene.


• Egwene is forced to confront Elaida and is jailed for her efforts. The Sitters must now decide what to do about Elaida.


• Plans are made to attack Tar Valon, 2 plans.


• The Great Lord's emissary frees Semirhage, and she uses an a'dam on him.


• Rand bans Cadsuane.


• Mat writes a script and directs his players.


• Verin is drawn to Mat's side.


• The Dragon Reborn meets the Daughter of the Nine Moons.


• Tuon rejects an alliance and announces herself Empress.


• Rand balefires Graendal's estate.


• Cadsuane says someone with Perrin Aybara can sway Rand.


• Verin meets with Egwene, spilling the beans and ending her life.


• A rebel contingent brings Egwene back to their camp after Egwene's valiant stand. Further proof of her Amyrlin-ship.


• Elaida out of the picture.


• Rallying troops for Shayol Ghul. Rand also confronts the marching Borderlanders.


• Black Ajah are revealed and executed.


• A new Amyrlin must be chosen within Tar Valon.


• Rand finds his reason for continuing.