When given the blueprint for an epic high fantasy full of hope, growth, humor, drama, and action, Amazon decided to go for imitation GoT. Thank goodness Robert Jordan didn't live to see this betrayal of his work. I could forgive them if they'd at least made a good story from the butchering of his work, but calling this a second rate story is being generous. Do yourself a favor and enjoy the book. Pretend this blasphemy doesn't exist and save yourself the pain.