The Dragon Reborn

Mat Cauthon’s Roguish Awakening and the Fall of the Stone of Tear in Audio

In an audacious structural gamble that fundamentally redefined the series, *The Dragon Reborn* places the nominal protagonist Rand al'Thor largely in the background, transforming him into a hunted, brooding figure fleeing southward toward his destiny. This brilliant narrative shift allows the supporting ensemble to claim center stage with dazzling effect. Free from the corrupting influence of the Shadar Logoth dagger, Mat Cauthon emerges as a witty, reluctant hero wielding a deadly quarterstaff and uncanny gambler's luck. Accompanied by the fierce Aiel warrior Gaul, Perrin Aybara wrestles with his wolfbrother instincts and the perils of the Dream World, while Egwene, Nynaeve, and Elayne hunt insidious Black Ajah conspirators across the realm.

In audio format, the dynamic interplay between the characters sparkles with newfound comedic energy, roguish charm, and relentless momentum. Michael Kramer’s portrayal of Mat Cauthon is celebrated by fans as one of the most delightful character transformations in modern audiobook history, bringing unforgettable zest to his hilarious quarterstaff duel against Gawyn and Galad in Tar Valon. This contrasts brilliantly against Kate Reading’s fierce, determined voicing of the young Aes Sedai novices navigating deadly conspiracies in the White Tower. Highlighted alongside The Great Hunt and The Shadow Rising in our Epic Fantasy collection, this twenty-six-hour recording turns a multi-pronged race to the fortress of Tear into an addictive auditory feast.

Offering over twenty-six hours of thrilling adventure for a single credit, this release delivers outstanding entertainment value for dedicated fantasy listeners. Jordan proves that his epic world is far larger than a single savior, allowing every member of the Two Rivers party to grow into formidable legends in their own right before unleashing an explosive magical climax inside the Stone of Tear. Spending a monthly token on this fast-moving installment secures an irresistible listening experience that will make long hours fly by in a flash.

The Wheel of Time Reading Order: • New Spring (Prequel – 12h 37m) • The Eye of the World (Book 1 – 29h 57m) • The Great Hunt (Book 2 – 26h 34m) • The Dragon Reborn (Book 3 – 26h 04m) • The Shadow Rising (Book 4 – 40h 57m) • The Fires of Heaven (Book 5 – 36h 27m) • Lord of Chaos (Book 6 – 41h 32m) • A Crown of Swords (Book 7 – 30h 24m) • The Path of Daggers (Book 8 – 23h 25m) • Winter's Heart (Book 9 – 24h 12m) • Crossroads of Twilight (Book 10 – 26h 04m) • Knife of Dreams (Book 11 – 32h 19m) • The Gathering Storm (Book 12 – 33h 03m) • Towers of Midnight (Book 13 – 38h 23m) • A Memory of Light (Book 14 – 41h 47m)