I'm about a third through Knife of Dreams, and I feel a little frustrated. I'd been told that it was significantly better than Crossroads of Twiligt (which, let's be honest, was a slog to get through).
So far it seems mostly the same.
We opened with Egwene being captured. She's slowly tossing the effect of the forkroot of her, and she's not shielded. Yes! She's one of the most powerful magic-wielders, as these arrogant Aes Sedai are about to learn. Finally a cool magic fight - and then Egwene hiding in Tar Valon. Maybe linking up with other, disgruntled Aes Sedai. It's about to be good.
Nope, she's shielded. Nevermind.
But wait - she contacts her followers outside. A rescue operation into the very heart of the White Tower. Fuck yeah, now we're cooking! Aes Sedai against Aes Sedai, duking it out while trying to locate the fallen Amyrlin.
Nope. They decide not to risk it.
Aha! But then an assassin. An Aes Sedai is actually going to take out Elaida! Wow. it's probably gonna fail, but maybe... it could happen...
Nope. She's a spy that's been working for Elaida.
Nothing of interest. Nothing.
But it's my own fault. I forgot one key elemental of Wheel of Time. Egwene is a powerful woman - of course she needs to be humbled and physically humiliated. Spankings and switchings are what's needed.
So many missed opportunities.
And don't get me startet on Tuon. If that arrogant slaver doesn't get a realisation that she's personally ruined people's lives with her slavetraining I'm going to scream.
Selucia actually puts a a'dam on two Aei Sedai - and when Teslyn gets free? No vengeance? No fury? Just tears and kissing Matt's hand? Those arrogant invaders should be tied so hard by wind that they can barely breathe.
But no. Because if there's one thing we know about former slaves - they don't want revenge. They just want to let their former masters be.
Oh, and don't get me started on Perrin. Tell me again, Perrin - what matters most to you? Hmm? I've forgotten, since you've only mentioned it twice THIS chapter.
Making deals with fucking slavers and invading enemies - instead of asking for help from your childhood friend the DRAGON REBORN who commands ARMIES and who's already an enemy of the Aeil who has your abusive wife. What is the matter with you?
ARGH!