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WoT video news: How to Channel

In this week's Wheel of Time Video News, Kristen shares her experience of learning how to channel.
 
Hmm. Perhaps she should remain a Novice bit longer....
 
This episode of the Wheel of Time Video News is sponsored by TaverenTees.com -- the official location for WoT t-shirts. "Wear a piece of the Pattern."
 

http://www.youtube.com/embed/a4R00UNuDI8?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>
Jason Denzel
Jason Denzel

DM to produce multiple videos for AMOL

Dragonmount is proud to announce a partnership agreement with Tor books to produce multiple videos to promote A Memory of Light. Building on the success of the Towers of Midnight book trailer, Tor has commissioned us to produce multiple live-action videos for the final Wheel of Time novel.
 
In addition to these video "trailers", a collection of behind-the-scenes features will be produced, along with other associated media, prize give-aways and fun stuff. The campaign is expected to begin sometime near the end of 2011.
 
In case you missed it, DM produced a "book trailer" last year for the release of Towers of Midnight. It received strong positive reviews and quickly became Tor's most viewed video ever. You can read all about the making of the video (with video and photos) on our Behind the Scenes page.
 
A Memory of Light is the fourteenth and final novel in the WoT saga. No official release date has been announced, although it is expected sometime in 2012.
 
Production for these video will happen over the summer in California. If you're interested in helping with production, please send an email showing your interest with appropriate filmmaking or related skillsets to movies@dragonmount.com.
 
The Towers of Midnight book trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/embed/apJJ0NzOXEg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>
Jason Denzel
Jason Denzel

Fan Art Friday: Aiel

Well, I'm finally back from JordanCon. If you haven't had a chance yet, check out the excellent episode the Dragonmount Video team made about it.
 
This week, we're looking at the Aiel. Next year's JordanCon will be "Car'a'con", so it's never too early to start getting ideas for costumes.
 
 

 
This is an excellent group portrait of several Aiel by Jeremy Saliba. The Aiel form of dress is based on Arab tribesmen and I think this illustrates that. The clothes are flowing, with lots of pockets and layers that allow for cool air to be trapped inside and protect the skin from the sun. But since the Aiel are also warriors, it takes the form of loose trousers and shirts, rather than flowing robes and caftans. Jeremy is one of two officially licensed fan artists, but unfortunately this piece isn't for sale.
 

 
This Maiden pencil sketch is done byNelly Lozanova. Far Dareis Mai is the only all woman warrior society in Randland until Elayne creates her bodyguard. The Seanchan army seems to be gender neutral, and the forces of Randland proper seem to be predominantly male, with the exception of a few women mercenaries. I like the shading and the lines on this piece.
 

 
This sketch of the Wise Ones by Gala Maia is a little rougher than the other pieces, but I still think it does a good job of conveying the strength and power of these women. Sorilea (in the middle) in particular looks like she could kill and eat me.
 

 
This is a very lovely digital painting by fee-absinthe called "I have toh". Aviendha lies about her feelings to Rand, and has to meet her toh. She chooses to be beaten by the Wise Ones, though she does not tell them who she lied to or what about. The colors in this are amazing and I love that the background is unfinished. It lets you really focus on the subject. Really nicely done.
JenniferL
JenniferL

2011 Hugo Nominations Announced

Over the weekend, the 2011 Hugo nominations were announced. The Hugos are considered the highest honor in fantasy and science fiction writing and fandom. While Towers of Midnight wasn't nominated in the "Best Novel" category this year, there is a nomination of interest to Wheel of Time fans.
 
Brandon Sanderson's podcast, Writing Excuses, (with writers Dan Wells and Howard Tayler also hosting) was nominated for a Hugo in the "Best Related Work" category. This is the first time a podcast has been nominated in this category, and the second podcast to be recognized by the World Science Fiction Society in any category. Also of interest, Moshe Feder, Sanderson's editor for his solo novels, was nominated this year for "Best Editor-Long Form"
 
If you're interested in voting on the Hugos this year, you will need to be a registered member of this year's WorldCon held in Reno, Nevada Aug. 17-21. If you are unable to attend, WorldCon offers Supporting Memberships that allow you to vote without attending the convention. Wheel of Time fans Linda Taglieri and Jennifer Liang are confirmed Program Participants for the convention. Brandon Sanderson will also be attending, along with hundreds of other authors, editors and fans.
JenniferL
JenniferL

Video News: JordanCon 2011 Round Up

Last weekend was the third annual JordanCon, the fan convention founded in honor of The Wheel of Time author Robert Jordan. Guests this year included Hugo nominated author Eugie Foster, steampunk and urban fantasy writer Jana Oliver and JordanCon Guest of Honor David B. Coe.Other notables included Brandon Sanderson, Harriet McDougal, Maria Simons and Alan Romanczuk. If you missed out on the fun, here are some reviews, recaps and photo galleries, along with a special extended edition episode of Dragonmount's Video News with Kristen Nedopak.

http://www.youtube.com/embed/M1F6Ga7Kg_k" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>  
Photo Albums

Lannis's Album
Stephen A. Watkins's Album
Featherynscale's Album
AniMajor's Album
 
Convention Reports

Eugie Foster's Report
Stephen A. Watkin's Report
Leigh Butler's Report (Part One/Part Two/Part Three/ Part Four)
Linda Taglieri's Report (Part One/ Part Two)
JenniferL
JenniferL

JordanCon Tips, Tricks and Cheat Codes

JordanCon, the only convention in the world dedicated to Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time series is this weekend in Atlanta, Georgia. This year's Guest of Honor is fantasy author David B. Coe. Other attending authors are Brandon Sanderson, Jana Oliver, Jamie Chambers and the Hugo-nominated Eugie Foster. Joining them will be fan personalities Leigh Butler, Richard Fife, Matt Hatch, Linda Taglieri and our own Jason Denzel and Jennifer Liang.
 
Here are some links you may find useful, or at least interesting:


 
JordanCon's official Facebook group.
JordanCon tentative schedule
JordanCon Progress Report
At the door registration is $65. Single day memberships are available.

 
You can also check out our special JordanCon episode of "Wheel of Time Video News".
 
http://www.youtube.com/embed/oBflGf5H0OI?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>
 
Kristen Nedopak and the rest of the video team will be at the convention, so you might get a chance to be on camera with them.
JenniferL
JenniferL

Premium Accounts, chat room, and Online Store now available

By popular demand, we've re-opened our online store!
 
Dragonmount's online store primarily contains WoT jewelry items for both men and women. Items such as Aes Sedai rings, Foxhead medallions, and even coursouvas, are available in a variety of forms. These items are crafted by Badali Jewelry, and are available at the lowest prices anywhere right here on DM.
 
To celebrate the launch of our jewelry store, we'll be giving an extra discount for everyone for the next 10 days. Use the coupon code heartstone to gain an additional 10% off all jewelry items. It expires after April 19th.
 
The other significant item in our store is the return of the Dragonmount Premium Accounts! By purchasing one of these annual subscriptions, you will gain access to the exclusive chat room on DM, as well as gained increased account space for both your Personal Messages (PM's) and online gallery. You'll also get an additional 5% discount on all other store items. If you are a frequent contributor to the social scene here at DM, then this is a must-have. Also, we have a lot of cool plans for the premium account holders coming down the line. New features will be added soon.
 
In celebration of these premium accounts, we're offering a full 40% discount on them for the next few months. Enter the coupon code thechosen to receive this discount. It expires after August 1st.
 
Why we are offering Premium Accounts
Some people have questioned why we are offering this. (Fair question!) The reason is that we are regularly asked by people how they can support Dragonmount. Instead of just accepting donations, we felt that we wanted to give something back in return for your kindness. While anybody can buy one of these, they are primarily aimed at the thousands of fans who spend a considerable amount of time on our forums.
 
To visit our online store, click the link in our main menu above, or" rel="external nofollow">http://www.dragonmount.com/forums/store/">or just click here.
Jason Denzel
Jason Denzel

Fan Art Friday: Aes Sedai

Would you believe that I had this done and then something hiccuped and I lost everything? So annoying. I had to redo this from scratch in a hurry. But I think I found even better art this time around for you.
 
This week, we're looking at the women of the White Tower. The Aes Sedai are a huge part of Robert Jordan's story. The Tower itself is the backdrop of many plotlines and a good chunk of the female characters are either Aes Sedai, or have trained at some point to be Aes Sedai.
 

 
First up is this portrait of Leane by Fee-Absinthe. Leane was Siuan's Keeper of the Chronicles until her stilling. Not knowing if she's ever be able to channel again, she turned to being a sexpot for something else to fill her time. It's kind of fun watching a woman who had denied herself sexuality for so long, decide to complete own it. This portrait captures that transition I think.
 

 
Elaida, by sicilianvalkyrie Elaida is a Sitter for the Reds, who masterminds a coup against Siuan Sanche and becomes Amyrlin herself. The Tower coup is the shattering that sets a good deal of the plot in motion making Elaida a key character. She has now held prisoner by the Seanchan and by all reports, she is NOT a good damane.
 

 
Ah, Liandrin. She pretty much drips "Black Ajah" from the moment we see her. This is by ravenwing136
 
And that's all I've got time for today. I'll have to do this theme again and see if I can find some of what I originally used.
 
Speaking of time, I'll be Chairing JordanCon next weekend. I may not have time to write this column ahead of time so it can run while I'm gone. So if you don't hear from me, you know what's going on. And if you'll be at the convention, be sure and say "Hi" to me.
JenniferL
JenniferL

Dragonmount Fantasy Review: Steven Erikson

The Dragonmount Fantasy Review
The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson
 
Welcome back to Dragonmount's monthly fantasy review. This month's review is on Steven Erikson's epic fantasy series, The Malazan Book of the Fallen. Don't let the singular use of the word "book" confuse you either, each "tale" in the Malazan world is a book in its own right, and quite a large one at that. The tenth and final novel in the series, The Crippled God, was just released bringing to a close the main sequence series. However, several other novels set within this world are still planned.
 
What is The Malazan Book of the Fallen About? Why Would I Recommend it To Wheel of Time Fans?
 
The Malazan world is the only fantasy world that I've encountered which is larger in scope than that of the Wheel (George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire would also come close, I suppose). The series takes place across six continents, involving empires, nations, city-states, and religious uprisings. There is hundreds of thousands of years of history layered through the story. You have dragons and shape-shifters, and an entire pantheon of selfish gods ready and willing to manipulate mortals. And, moreover, Erikson is ready and willing to show you them all.
 
When armies march, in the Malazan world, you don't ride just behind the eyes of the generals and their small council of worthy notables, you get in deep and dark with the individual marine squads on the front line. You meet the enemy and learn to like them--or not, as the story needs. You get to see the political machinations behind the war, the games of assassins and emissaries.
 
What is the Value in this Style?
 
Well, the writing itself is pretty engaging, if sometimes given to being overly verbose. In my opinion the greatest value in this is that Erikson does the prep-work damned well, and as such when it comes times for the climax, it becomes explosive--when Anomander Rake draws his sword, you will want to jump up and down. When the Bonehunters decide to march on a rival empire, you'll be ready to scream. When High Mage Quick Ben does... well, anything, you'll probably clap, even if it makes you look stupid. Indeed, when it comes to the ending of each of these books you'll have been brought to understand what's at risk, who's at risk, why the characters are risking it--and then you get to watch as Erikson weaves all this neatly together into an ending which explodes off the page.
 
Alright, So What Are The Downsides?
 
Erikson doesn't really ease you into his world--rather he drops you in the ocean at midnight, and then proceeds to whip up a storm. I've compared it to being introduced to the Wheel circa A Crown of Swords, but even that's not entirely accurate as Erikson continues to run--constantly working in more and more elements of the world. I think it was the end of the third novel, Memories of Ice, that I felt I was truly beginning to get a grip on the world.
 
Of course it is not a truly insurmountable problem. The characters are interesting, the plot is gritty and engaging, so the fact that you are filled with a vague sense of confusion over what's what and why things are the way they are doesn't necessarily detract from the enjoyment of the story. But even though you might be a bit confused about it, Erikson is not, and you will come to understand everything.
 
You Didn't Really Answer the Question. What's The Malazan Book of the Fallen About?
 
The series does have an over-arching storyline, though it doesn't become truly apparent until the later books, nor do you realize the ways in which the events of the earlier books are moving toward or supplying for that overlying arc. So in book one, Gardens of the Moon, we have the Malazan invasion of the continent of Genebackis, and all the politics that responds to that. In book two we jump to the continent of Seven Cities with the beginning of the uprising of the cult of Drhyjna the Apocalyptic, and book three were back to Genebackis. Though characters and sub-plots crossover in each of these books they are largely self-contained stories, with their own endings.
 
So yeah, just trust me when I say it's quite a ride.
 
Final Comments
 
To those who enjoy the scope of the world-building within the Wheel of Time, The Malazan Book of the Fallen will blow your mind. Beyond that, the characters and plot--and perhaps more significantly, the key character moments and plot points, are all chock full of awesome. Though it should be warned that this is a somewhat darker series than the Wheel, including far more graphic violence and sexual content.
 
You can purchase the first book, Gardens of the Moon here and support Dragonmount.
 
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</div>
Luckers
Luckers

Video news: Wheel of Time t-shirts!

In this week's Wheel of Time Video News, host Kristen Nedopak discusses the new officially-licensed WoT t-shirts available for purchase. In addition there's info about a contest that ends in less than 24 hours, so get clicking!
 

http://www.youtube.com/embed/XKGV5ed4y_U?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>  
For the Ta'veren Tees contest, which ends on April 5, all you need to do is place one (1) order (for as many shirts as you wish) from now through April 5 (11:59 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time) and you will be entered to win three shirts of your choosing.
 
For the full contest details, click here.
Jason Denzel
Jason Denzel

Fan Art Friday: Lolcats

Orly? Yah rly. This week's Fan Art Friday is all about the lols. Last year, Theoryland started a "Wheel of Time Lolcat" thread that was pretty amazing. The meme migrated it's way to Dragonmount not long after and here I have culled the ones that made me laugh the hardest from both threads. If you like what you see, definitely check out both threads to see what didn't make the cut. Since there won't be much commentary this time, I'll even through in a few extras.
 

 
Noes!11 They be cleansin may Taint!
 

 
You really can't go wrong with a classic videogame reference.
 

 
Mat works strangely well as a cat.
 

 
Aww. Poor Logain.
 

 
Hee!
 

 
And this one is just cute.
 
How about you guys? Any that I missed that you enjoyed?
JenniferL
JenniferL

Podcast: The 4th Age Podcast presents WoT You Should Know #3

The 4th Age podcast presents a short news update, looking at and analyzing the popular 2011 Suvudu Cage Match between characters from various fantasy books, and Spencer reveals a heretofore hidden Talent! Andrew, Spencer and Virginia are your hosts for this episode. Check out Dragonmount.com" rel="external nofollow">http://www.dragonmount.com">Dragonmount.com for forums, comments and all the latest news in the Wheel of Time world.
Also, don’t forget JordanCon is coming soon! April 15-17 in Atlanta, GA – tickets and rooms rates are still available. Check out http://www.ageoflegends.net/" target="_blank">AgeofLegends.net for all the details!
ATTENTION! THERE MAY BE TOWERS OF MIDNIGHT SPOILERS! Also, spoilers on ALL the other books are VERY likely! Yes, there will be spoilers for ToM! If you haven’t read all the way through the Wheel of Time, THERE WILL BE SPOILERS of all previous books! In this podcast, probably spoilers of other series, too. Did we mention that there will be spoilers….?
Links to the current Cage Matches as of 3/30/2011. Vote now!
Quick" rel="external nofollow">http://sf-fantasy.suvudu.com/2011/03/cage-match-2011-quick-ben-versus-perrin-aybara.html">Quick Ben vs Perrin Aybara
http://sf-fantasy.suvudu.com/2011/03/cage-match-2011-quick-ben-versus-perrin-aybara.html
http://sf-fantasy.suvudu.com/2011/03/cage-match-2011-quick-ben-versus-perrin-aybara.html">http://sf-fantasy.suvudu.com/2011/03/cage-match-2011-quick-ben-versus-perrin-aybara.html
href="http://sf-fantasy.suvudu.com/2011/03/cage-match-2011-jon-snow-versus-vin.html">Jon Snow vs Vin
http://sf-fantasy.suvudu.com/2011/03/cage-match-2011-jon-snow-versus-vin.html
Hosts:" rel="external nofollow">http://sf-fantasy.suvudu.com/2011/03/cage-match-2011-jon-snow-versus-vin.html">http://sf-fantasy.suvudu.com/2011/03/cage-match-2011-jon-snow-versus-vin.html
Hosts: Andrew, Spencer, Virginia
Editor: Spencer
Download" rel="external nofollow">http://www.dragonmount.com/Podcast/Media/dm-WYSK-003.mp3">
Download this Episode now

Music by: Josh Needleman His website is at www.joshneedleman.net" rel="external nofollow">http://www.joshneedleman.net/">www.joshneedleman.net and he has the music available to hear on his MySpace page at www.myspace.com/joshneedleman." rel="external nofollow">http://www.myspace.com/joshneedleman">www.myspace.com/joshneedleman. It’s title is Floodgate. Thanks, Josh!
Download" rel="external nofollow">http://www.dragonmount.com/Podcast/Media/dm-WYSK-003.mp3">Download this Episode nowhttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/4thAge/~4/hGE9ef4jEPE" height="1" width="1"/>
JenniferL
JenniferL

Tournament season

There are two intense tournaments raging right now, and both of them feature entries from the Wheel of Time. No, we're not talking about the NCAA March Madness tournament either.
 
Suvudu Cage Match
In this year's Suvudu cage match, which pitches various heroes from the fantasy genre against each other, Perrin Aybarra is representing the Wheel of Time series. As of this news article, we're currently in the fourth round of the tournament. Perrin has defeated. Tasslehoff Burrfoot, Paul Atreides, and Martin the Warrior. Currently he's taking on Ben Adaephon Delat (aka "Quick Ben") from the The Malazan Book of the Fallen series by Steven Erikson.
 
Please go vote for Perrin!
 
Last year's tournament champion was Rand al'Thor, who defeated Jaime Lannister from George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire in what was surely one of the most exciting showdowns in years.
 
The 4th Annual Audible.com Tournament of Audiobooks
The other tournament happening right now is Audible's Audiobook tournament. Celebrating outstanding performances in four categories (Best Sellers, Critically Acclaimed, Customer Favorites, and Editors' Picks), the competition is a bracket-style, single-elimination tournament where customers and fans vote to decide which books advance from week to week. It all leads up to the final week, when the winning book will be crowned Audible's Champion of Audiobooks to stand beside past winners including last year's champion: The Gathering Storm.
 
This year all the excitement began on March 23 and continues until the champion is announced on April 26. Representing the Wheel of Time is Towers of Midnight, one of the bestselling books of 2010. ToM has already made it through the first round and the second round voting goes until April 4.
 
Go here to vote for it!
 
So there you go. Two popular tournaments. The Wheel of Time is the returning champion for both of them. Let's tell the world that our fandom and our favorite series deserve to be #1 again this year.
Jason Denzel
Jason Denzel

WoT Video News: JordanCon 2011

It's time for another edition of The Wheel of Time video news on Dragonmount. This week our host Kristen Nedopak focuses on JordanCon, the upcoming convention for fans of the Wheel of Time series.
 
http://www.youtube.com/embed/oBflGf5H0OI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>
 
JordanCon takes place in Atlanta, GA April 15-17. Pre-registration is $55 until April 3rd, $65 at the door. Hotel rooms are still available at the convention rate of &107 a night at the Crowne Plaza Ravinia. Guests and featured program participants include David B. Coe, Eugie Foster, Jana Oliver, Jason Denzel, Jennifer Liang, Matt Hatch, Linda Taglieri, Leigh Butler, Maria Simons, Alan Romanczuk, Brandon Sanderson and Harriet McDougal.
 
You can view the tentative schedule online (PDF).
 
Highlights of the convention this year include exclusive panels with Team Jordan, the "Last Theory Panel Ever", and even auditions (Yes, that's right.) for Dragonmount's next Top Secret WoT video project. (Details to come in a future news article about that). The three day event will also feature the annual costume contest, a Darkfriend Ice Cream Social, as well as numerous panels, workshops and discussions exploring the Wheel of Time series and fantasy writing.
 
Simply put, this is the BIGGEST annual event related to the Wheel of Time, and you don't want to miss it.
JenniferL
JenniferL

Fan Art Friday: Japanese Covers

This week Fan Art Friday we're going to deviate a little bit from strictly fan art and show off some pieces from the Japanese translations of The Wheel of Time. We are, of course, very saddened by the recent earthquake in Sendai and tsunami that affected the Pacific Rim. We hope that any Japanese fans out there reading this are safe and know where their loved ones are.
 
For those who aren't aware, the entire series has been translated into Japanese and published with new covers and interior art by Toshiaki Katou. As is common with translated books, each one has been split into several smaller volumes. The Japanese editions average between four to five volumes per book. The official website for the Japanese editions is hosted by Japan Contents.
 
src='http://www.dragonmount.com/forums/uploads/gallery/album_91/gallery_2_91_40184.jpg' alt='Eye of the World 2' />
 
This is from the second volume of The Eye of the World. It's Moiraine and Lan, looking spooky and foreboding. I'm sorry that we don't have a better resolution scan of this. The detail on these pieces is incredible.
 
src='http://www.dragonmount.com/forums/uploads/gallery/album_91/gallery_2_91_90182.jpg' alt='The Dragon Reborn 2' />
 
This is from the second part of The Dragon Reborn. Nynaeve is pretty easy to pick out with her braid, but did you notice that Elayne is rising out of a lily? And her personal sigil is a golden lily? Like I said, attention to detail. I don't know what those feathers around Egwene are supposed to be though.
 
src='http://www.dragonmount.com/forums/uploads/gallery/album_91/gallery_2_91_14624.jpg' alt='A Crown of Swords 7' />
 
Rand, from towards the end of A Crown of Swords. If I was a guy, I'd totally use this as my forum avatar. FEAR ME!
 
src='http://www.dragonmount.com/forums/uploads/gallery/album_91/gallery_2_91_56080.jpg' alt='A Crown of Swords 5' />
 
And finally, Moghedian, the Spider. Chilling, huh? Too bad she's such a wussy Forsaken.
 
To see more Japanese covers check out our recently upgraded Art Gallery. And if you'd like to donate money to help fund relief efforts in Japan or the Pacific, the White Tower Social Group has helpfully collected some links.
 
http://american.redc...ainDonateButton
http://www.redcross....id=2372&tid=032
The UK red Cross
 
Or you can donate via text message:
America - text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10
Canada - text ASIA to 30333 to donate $5
JenniferL
JenniferL

Fan Art Friday: The Black Tower

This week for Fan Art Friday, we're going to take a look at the Black Tower. The Asha'man uniform is a black, high collared coat. As they gain rank, they earn pins that can be worn on the collar. Don't ask whether the Dragon is on the right or the left, because that topic has completely derailed every discussion on men's costuming we've ever attempted at either Dragon*Con or JordanCon. Seriously.
 
But fannish arguments aside, let's take a look at some art:
 

 
A nice, generic Asha'man by Katerina Borovikov. Note that the Asha'man pin is silver in this piece, instead of the canonical gold and red enameled described in the books. That's something you see in Wheel of Time costuming as well, because the sterling silver version of the Dragon pin that Badali sells is far more affordable than the red and gold version.
 

 
I love this one. It's pretty simple and to the point. "Asha'man! Explode stuff!" DeviantArt user liruchen describes this as "Saldeaen Asha'man", which explains the mustache. Pretty fabulous use of line and form on this one too.
 

 
This one is a really nice study of an Asha'man. I think one of the reasons the Black Tower has become so popular in fandom isn't just that you get to dress in black and set fires with your mind, it's the sense of struggle the Asha'man have. To save the world, they have to embrace the part of themselves that's terrible and destructive. They risk madness to learn how to channel. It's a tremendous sacrifice they make. This piece by solitarium captures that feeling.
 

 
Another juxtaposition you see frequently is Asha'man with sisters of the Red Ajah. The Reds as a whole get a bad reputation in the books. They come off as man haters, even though there are several Reds who enjoy men and one even openly wishes for a Warder. The Reds, however, are the first Aes Sedai to really understand what the Black Tower means and offer to bond them as Warders. This is without knowing that saidin has been cleansed or what might happen to a woman bonded to mad man. It's an incredible act of courage for them to say "Men who can channel are our responsibility" and take that so seriously.
 
Anyways, I'm editorializing and it has very little to do with this picture by gala-maia of Logain with one of the Reds he bonded against her will. I personally prefer the idea of the Reds and the Asha'man standing together against the Shadow, rather than one side victimizing the other.
JenniferL
JenniferL

Fan Art Friday: Rand al'Thor

This week. let's look at the central figure of the Wheel of Time series: Rand al'Thor.
 

 
Rand, from the beginning of the series. This is one of the early chapters of The Eye of the World, where he first sees the black rider. It's by James Beveridge, who once had a project to draw an illustration for each chapter of the series. He only got through the early chapters of the first book, but the art was incredible. You can see the whole project here.
 
I wanted to start with this one, because when you Google "Rand al'Thor", pretty much every single picture you see is of the PHENOMENAL COSMIC POWERS Rand. I wanted to see the farm boy from the Two Rivers Rand too.
 

 
See, this is what I'm talking about. Fire! Explosions! Shirtlessness! Still, I really like this picture by DeviantArt user Dmantz. There's a nice level of detail to it. He's got the wound that never heals, the Dragons on his forearms and everything is nicely textured. It's a good portrait.
 

 
Another shirtless Rand. This one by fan favorite Seamus Gallagher. The reason I comment so much on the shirtlessness is that I just don't recall Rand wandering around half naked all the time. But according to the fans, he's the Matthew McConaughey of ta'veren. I guess it's like Mat and his green coat, you get described that way once in this series and that becomes your default outfit.
 

 
Ah, good old Mark Bray. I knew I could count on you to draw some clothes. I also like the detail on his tattoos.
 
And because I've been awfully silly in this update, let's go for broke with this amazing video.
 
http://www.youtube.com/embed/N9Ujp5Ur_i8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>
 
Be sure to check out the new and improved DM Gallery!
JenniferL
JenniferL

DM Fantasy Review: Patrick Rothfuss

The Dragonmount Fantasy Review
The Kingkiller Chronicles by Patrick Rothfuss
 
I get asked a lot what books I’d suggest Wheel of Time fans read whilst they’re awaiting A Memory of Light, to such an extent that I thought it might be fun for everyone is we had a regular review of other fantasy novels on the site, fantasy novels which hold something similar to the spirit of Mr Jordan's work--be that in terms of scope, style, themes or whatever. With that in mind I thought that a monthly WoT-oriented look at some of the other shining stars of fantasy could be worth some time.
 
This month's entry will be on the Kingkiller Chronicles by Patrick Rothfuss. The first book, entitled The Name of the Wind, was released in 2007 and the second book, The Wise Man's Fear, was released worldwide on the first of March 2011.
 
What are the Kingkiller Chronicles About?
 
The Kingkiller Chronicles tell the story of a man named Kvothe. Or, perhaps more accurately, tell the story of a man named Kvothe telling the story of a boy named Kvothe. It begins with a historian seeking out the older Kvothe to get from him the true story of his infamous youth, which Kvothe finally agrees to. From there, over the next three days (each day at the inn being one of the books in the trilogy) Kvothe tells the historian his story. And what does that story cover? I'll let Kvothe tell you himself...
 
My name is Kvothe, pronounced nearly the same as "quothe." Names are important as they tell you a great deal about a person. I've had more names than anyone has a right to. The Adem call me Maedre. Which, depending on how it's spoken, can mean The Flame, The Thunder, or The Broken Tree.
 
"The Flame" is obvious if you've ever seen me. I have red hair, bright. If I had been born a couple of hundred years ago I would probably have been burned as a demon. I keep it short but it's unruly. When left to its own devices, it sticks up and makes me look as if I have been set afire.
 
"The Thunder" I attribute to a strong baritone and a great deal of stage training at an early age.
 
I've never thought of "The Broken Tree" as very significant. Although in retrospect, I suppose it could be considered at least partially prophetic.
 
My first mentor called me E'lir because I was clever and I knew it. My first real lover called me Dulator because she liked the sound of it. I have been called Shadicar, Lightfinger, and Six-String. I have been called Kvothe the Bloodless, Kvothe the Arcane, and Kvothe Kingkiller. I have earned those names. Bought and paid for them.
 
But I was brought up as Kvothe. My father once told me it meant "to know."
 
I have, of course, been called many other things. Most of them uncouth, although very few were unearned.
 
I have stolen princesses back from sleeping barrow kings. I burned down the town of Trebon. I have spent the night with Felurian and left with both my sanity and my life. I was expelled from the University at a younger age than most people are allowed in. I tread paths by moonlight that others fear to speak of during day. I have talked to Gods, loved women, and written songs that make the minstrels weep.
 
You may have heard of me.
 
These stories are themselves compelling, but in many ways it is in Rothfuss' skill as a writer, combined with the fact that Kvothe himself is not the most reliable narrator, that the true value of this book comes forth. Kvothe tells the story he wants to tell, and Rothfuss has him tell it beautifully. And, mixed between, interludes in which we get tantalizing glimpses of the modern Kvothe, and see both how the stories inform the man that comes to be--and at times more intriguingly, how they don't.
 

Why Do I Think This Would Appeal To WoT Fans


 
The Story; A Tale of a Boy That Grows Into a Wizard-Warrior
 
Whilst Jordan's story has been around long enough to set the archetypes these days, it doesn't do to forget that he told something original, something which had not been done before. Taking the classical story of the provincial young boy thrown out into the world at the whims of evil powers to learn to be a fantastical hero and leader in the war--only Rand's magic was not wondrous so much as scary, his role was not heroic so much as it was hopeful that when he was done destroying things, something might be left. His sword in the stone was flawed, his wise magical helpers were self-involved and childish, and he was--as heroes go--given a rather shoddy lot of it.
 
Rothfuss also takes the archetypal image of the hero, and plays with it. Through the stories of Kvothe's achievements an image is built, and then through the sardonic storytelling of the elder Kvothe that image is cut down again and again. Kvothe the Bloodless, to proud to bleed. Kvothe the Arcane calling lightning from the sky--if you have expectations on what should happen, they won't. And the few times they do, Kvothe Elder quite disdainfully refuses to tell the story.
 
Indeed, Rothfuss not only plays on what you want to see, but on what you don't. There were several times I found myself thinking 'ok, come on Rothfuss, we get it--Kvothe is cool' then reading the next chapter and practically feeling Rothfuss giving me a little slap on the face and saying 'come on man, you didn't think I'd be that obvious, did you?'
 
So what are the differences, and the downsides? Difficult question, as everyone appreciates stories differently. I will note, for instance, that people often complain about the abruptness of Jordan's climaxes. Battles built across books occurring in a smattering of pages. With that in mind, the WoT Fan should be warned--Kingkillers is definitely a story that is sold in the telling. The style of Rothfuss' writing (portrayed in the first person narration of Kvothe) is engaging, but also bound to Kvothe's inner nature. Thus, Kvothe is far more interested in telling the story of his fascination with a puzzle in a book, or the day spent trying to track down his girl, than he is in depicting his glorious and epic victories.
 
In effect, if you're looking for epic battles, you won't find them. That's not the story that's being told here, and if you're like me, that's fine. Something is being built, slowly and carefully--the juxtaposition between Kvothe Younger and Kvothe Elder is enough to show that, and for that I am content to wait, and enjoy the journey.
 
The World, A Home Fit For A King
 
Worldbuilding was one of Jordan's great skills--the scope and size of the Wheel of Time is something that many fans cite as being the element that draws them back to the Wheel time and again. Now Rothfuss only has two books out, so it’s impossible to compare to a twelve book series, but I will say this, based on the world he has shown so far, I do think Rothfuss has worldbuilding skillz. With a Z.
 
The Adem, for instance, a military society every bit as rich as the Aiel, with customs and language quirks that are amongst the most interesting things I've read in fantasy in a great long time. I'll leave you to discover those for yourself, however, and end with this note: his world is expansive, and his skill in showing us that world is, if anything, growing.
 
One other parallel I would draw is this--Patrick likes to use songs and stories to tell the history of the world. A tool Jordan also uses from time to time, though not as heavily--and like Jordan, he uses it to mess with the reader. The same story can be told in different places with different endings or the same endings told in stories with different players, and from this a picture of the past, confused and fuzzed, begins to emerge, tantalizing us with the depth of the world.
 
It's hardly a technique unique to either of them--but it's one I like, so you'll just have to live with me telling you about it. :D
 
Mr Rothfuss Brings New Life to a Style Tolkien Created and Jordan Revolutionised. Or Something.
 
Ok, so yes--that title is a bit wanky. Sounds like it came off a dustjacket of a b-grade book--or at least that was what I was hoping for. But I'm sure there is a rule somewhere that says all new fantasy authors have to be compared to Tolkien in a review, and I'm not one to break the rules--besides, there is a point I wanted to make, and that is this--it's all about the magic.
 
As a lead in to making this point, I would direct you to a blog entry Brandon Sanderson wrote on the subject of magic systems which he calls Sanderson's First Law. It rather excellently covers the various types of magic systems in fantasy stories, and the roles they subsequently play in the telling of the story. It's a worthwhile read.
 
But for simplicity here, let’s say there are two types. Hard Magic, which has its own set of clearly defined rules which are shown to the reader. I may be biased, but I've always regarded Jordan as the best Hard Magicist (Hard Magi?) about. The One Power with all its (post tSR) clearly defined rules and limitations is the perfect Hard Magic system, to my incredibly loyal mind. Tolkien's soft magic system, on the other hand, is beautiful. It's mysterious, invoking in us a sense of wonder that is not often felt in this modern world of hard science. The days in which maps ended with marks saying 'Here Be Dragons' are past, but they have an appeal which lingers, and are explored in the fantasy genre.
 
And here's the thing, Rothfuss does both, and well. Between the clearly defined sympathy, which Kvothe studies like a science, to the mysterious weaving of moonlight that is a gesture of magic from the Faen, to the Naming of Names which hangs between (or perhaps below, propping it all up) Rothfuss depicts a world which has both the intellectually intriguing element of hard magic with the sense of wonder that we so often feel at the prospect of anything fae and unknown in soft magic.
 
So should we put 'the love child of Jordan and Tolkien' on the dustjacket? I think so, if just for the spluttering that would result. But irrespective I'm sure you all take my point--others do hard magic. Other's do soft. Rothfuss has done something that is new--for me, at the least. He's dabbled in both, and it works well. Very well.
 
Production Times; A Cautionary Tale
 
Ok. So did you notice at the beginning that I said The Name of the Wind was published in 2007, and The Wise Man's Fear in 2011. Yeah... Rothfuss takes his time. The thing is, so did Jordan. And, though I worry about the parallels, so does Martin. And what I notice about all three is that they all produce really good books.
 
There is a sense of polish to The Wise Man's Fear, a sense that each word, however innocuous, adds to the insights of the world, the characters--or even just adds to the smooth flow of the writing itself, a thing that is subtle but which shouldn't be underestimated in terms of its value. If that takes time to produce (and I believe there is quote somewhere saying Jordan usually did somewhere between 8 and 11 drafts per novel) then so be it.
 
I brought this up because I know a lot of you find the wait between new books annoying. Not so for me--tell me an author takes his time, and I'll come to the table full of wide-eyed excitement. But that's me, and I can be somewhat odd.
 

General Thoughts and Conclusions


 
Rothfuss' storytelling is engaging and interesting. Though it is not what you would picture as a standard Epic Fantasy series, it is nonetheless deeply engaging. He uses many older techniques that I have not seen in some time--a story within a story, the switchback between first person and third person prose, the impact of a narrator’s personality on the portrayal of the story--and thus the inherent truthfulness of the narration itself--but he uses them all in a fresh, new way which in effect rejuvenates them.
 
I think the Kingkiller Chronicles will appeal to anyone who enjoyed the scope of the Wheel of Time. Rothfuss is most certainly not Jordan 2.0, but rather, like Jordan has begun something new, and all of his own, and it gladdens me that even as the Wheel ends, new Fantasy epics are rising to keep the genre alive and well.
 
Check out Patrick's official website
 
 
Hope you enjoyed all that. This is the first time out, so feel free to leave feedback on what you liked and didn't like.
Luckers
Luckers

Wheel of Time video news launch!

Dragonmount is proud to announce the launch of the Wheel of Time video news! Hosted by Kristen Nedopak, this regular series of brief videos will attempt to showcase some of the exciting events happening in the WoT community.
 
For right now, you can subscribe and get updates when a new video is posted by visiting our YouTube channel. We will provide other methods of downloading and subscribing at a later time. (Once we figure them out)
 
Here's our first episode:

http://www.youtube.com/embed/O2gCpMa7Uvo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>  
About the video team
Kristen Nedopak is an actress, show hostess, and huge WoT geek. You may recognize her from the video coverage she did for our Towers of Midnight book trailer. You can see more of her work at Nedopak.com.
 
The Wheel of Time video news was edited by Jonathan Barbato. In addition to video editing, Jonathan is a script supervisor working on set for various film productions.
 
Give us feedback!
We'd love to hear back from you about this video. What did you think? What sort of news would you like to see us cover?
Jason Denzel
Jason Denzel

Wheel of Time video news coming March 8

Dragonmount is excited to announce that beginning Tuesday, March 8th, we will be launching the Wheel of Time Video News. This regular program will feature some interesting WoT news in a brief format.
 
The show will be hosted by the delightful Kristen Nedopak (http://www.nedopak.com), who not only is respected as a fantasy geek and hostess, but got involved with us for the Towers of Midnight book trailer Behind the Scenes.
 
Our first video will debut on YouTube and here on DM. Head over to our YouTube channel and subscribe to our feed to get it as soon as it comes out.
Jason Denzel
Jason Denzel

Fan Art Friday: Dragonmount's Artists

This week, for Fan Art Friday, we're looking again at the artists who post their art on this site. If you don't know already, Dragonmount is host to the Artists, Writers and Crafters Guild, an online club for creative types. There's lots of stuff going on there every month, you should check it out. The Guild's theme this month was "Love" and all of the art featured this week is on that theme.
 

 
This is a really nice wallpaper of Perrin and Faile by kirbalouga. I like the way she works in Perrin and Faile's totem animals, the wolf and the falcon.
 

 
A nice portrait of Moiraine and Siuan from New Spring by Mercutia. Mercutia calls this one "Accomplices" which I think is an accurate description of Moiraine and Siuan as Accepted. I can't be the only one who wants to see a reunion between those two, especially now that they are all het up.
 
That is, unfortunately, all the Wheel of Time art that was posted on the forums last month that fit the theme. Hopefully next month will have more for us to enjoy. Since I usually like to post three or four different pieces each week, here's a little something to round things off.
 
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Some fan on Youtube has put together a nice montage of fan art set to music from the official Wheel of Time soundtrack, which was composed by Robert Berry several years ago. Enjoy!
JenniferL
JenniferL

Winter's Heart Audiobook Giveaway!

Dragonmount is excited to partner with Macmillan Audio to celebrate the release of Winter's Heart on audiobook. Now if that sounds strange to you, there's a good reason. After years of being out of print, the physical CD edition of Winter's Heart --Book 9 of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series--can now be found wherever books are sold. Macmillan Audio is honored to complete the WoT series on audio with this re-release of fan favorite, read by series' narrators Michael Kramer and Kate Reading.
 
To help celebrate this, check out our very first Wheel of Time video news segment, hosted by Kristen Nedopak:

http://www.youtube.com/embed/O2gCpMa7Uvo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>  
To celebrate all this new stuff, we're partnering with Macmillan Audio to give away some fun prizes. Our grand prize is a copy of Winter's Heart on audio CD, along with a copy of Towers of Midnight on audio CD and signed by Brandon Sanderson, Harriet McDougal and Michael Kramer. Secondary winners will receive copies of Winter's Heart on audio CD.
 
To enter, reply to this post with your favorite scene from Winter's Heart. The contest ends at 11:59 PM (U.S. Pacific time) on Tuesday, March 15th. This contest is open only to residents of the United States and Canada. (Sorry, folks.) One entry per person, please. We'll draw the winders from a random selection.
 
Be sure to visit Macmillan's Facebook page, where they have a dedicated Wheel of Time section.
 
(Comments are now closed! Thanks to all who entered.)
Jason Denzel
Jason Denzel

Fan Art Friday: RoseMuse

This week, we're looking again at a specific artist. For those of you that read the comments here, you may have noticed one artist in particular gets linked fairly often. That's RoseMuse.
 

 
RoseMuse has a cartoonish style that seems very inspired by anime to me. Her characters have clean, simple lines, but don't skimp on detail. I love this portrait of Rand with his three ladies, especially the facial expressions. Aviendha looks adorably angry.
 

 
I think she has a way of capturing the essential of a character, or a moment, even if her characters are a bit "cute". Egwene looks really, really angry in this picture of her calling lighting against the Seanchan. But she also looks cute enough to eat with a spoon. I like the dichotomy.
 

 
But she also shows real emotion and poignancy. Elayne looks truly haunted by her royal ancestors in this portrait.
 

 
She can also be freakin' hilarious. I highly, highly recommend clicking through to her gallery to see her "Stages of" series. Each is a character going through the stages of development we see in the books. I was going to feature one here, but I just can't pick one. So go look at all of them.
 
As a reminder, this is the last week for, the Artists, Writers and Crafters Group on Dragonmount this month. The theme for February is "Love", so if you have a piece of Wheel of Time fan art that fits that theme and you'd like to see it here, post it on the forums and I'll choose my favorites to post next month.
JenniferL
JenniferL

Podcast: #96 – The 4th Age Podcast – Towers of Midnight – Second Look

The 4th Age podcast presents Episode 96, a second look of the Towers of Midnight. We have nearly a full crew for this episode, with Andrew, Virginia, Spencer, Carrie and Daniel as your hosts for this episode. Check out Dragonmount.com" rel="external nofollow">http://www.dragonmount.com">Dragonmount.com for forums, comments and all the latest news in the Wheel of Time world.
ATTENTION! THERE ARE TOWERS OF MIDNIGHT SPOILERS! Also, spoilers on ALL the other books are VERY likely! Yes, there will be spoilers for ToM! If you haven’t read all the way through the Wheel of Time, THERE WILL BE SPOILERS of all previous books! Maybe of other series, too…. we will try to give warning. Did we mention that there will be spoilers….?
Hosts: Andrew, Virginia, Spencer, Carrie, Daniel
Editor: Norman H
http://www.dragonmount.com/Podcast/Media/dm-4thAge-096.mp3">Download'>http://www.dragonmount.com/Podcast/Media/dm-4thAge-096.mp3">Download this Episode now

Music by: Josh Needleman His website is at www.joshneedleman.net" rel="external nofollow">http://www.joshneedleman.net/">www.joshneedleman.net and he has the music available to hear on his MySpace page at www.myspace.com/joshneedleman." rel="external nofollow">http://www.myspace.com/joshneedleman">www.myspace.com/joshneedleman. It’s title is Floodgate. Thanks, Josh!
Download this Episode nowhttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/4thAge/~4/416I31UnTac" height="1" width="1"/>
JenniferL
JenniferL