Welcome to our comprehensive guide to The Wheel of Time Book 2: The Great Hunt by Robert Jordan, the thrilling continuation of his bestselling fantasy series. Whether you’re reading for the first time, returning after a long break, or coming from the Prime Video adaptation, this hub gathers everything you need to know about the second book in Jordan’s epic saga.
First published in 1990, The Great Hunt cemented Robert Jordan’s reputation as a master world-builder and storyteller. Expanding on the foundations of The Eye of the World, it deepens the lore, raises the stakes, and introduces unforgettable characters and cultures that shape the series to come. The Shining Walls is here to guide you through why this book continues to hook all ardent fans of modern fantasy.
About The Great Hunt
The Great Hunt picks up soon after the events of The Eye of the World, following Rand al’Thor and his friends as they find themselves caught in new webs of prophecy, danger, and destiny. What begins as a desperate pursuit to reclaim a stolen artifact quickly spirals into a journey that spans nations, introduces strange new powers, and forces each character to confront their growing responsibilities.
This is the book where Jordan widens the lens of his world. The stakes extend beyond the Two Rivers youths, bringing readers into contact with ancient prophecies, political intrigue, and forces from across the sea. It’s also where themes of identity, trust, and choice sharpen for Rand, Egwene, Mat, Perrin, and Nynaeve — each tested in ways they never imagined.
Blending adventure, mystery, and the ever-present battle between Light and Shadow, The Great Hunt delivers one of the series’ most memorable tales. It’s a turning point where Jordan proves his story is far more than a familiar quest — it’s a living, breathing epic that continues to draw readers back decades after its release.
The Great Hunt Synopsis
An effort has been made to keep this summary light, but it does contain significant spoilers for the book. Do not expand if you want to remain unsullied.
Spoiler Summary of The Great Hunt
After events at the Eye of the World, the legendary Horn of Valere is discovered—only to be stolen alongside a corrupted dagger that still binds Mat to Shadar Logoth. Rand, Perrin, Mat, and loyal Shienaran soldiers pursue the thieves across the Borderlands and beyond, while Egwene and Nynaeve begin their journey into Aes Sedai training and Tower politics.
On the hunt, Rand wrestles with prophecy and the frightening truth of his power. He crosses paths with Selene, a mysterious woman with hidden motives, and learns that fate is pulling him toward a confrontation he cannot avoid. Meanwhile, Egwene and Nynaeve uncover the menace of the Seanchan—invaders who enslave women who can channel—revealing a new threat from across the sea.
The race culminates in Falme, where the Horn is sounded and Heroes of the Ages ride again. Rand duels Ba’alzamon across the sky, a vision witnessed by thousands, publicly tying him to the Dragon Reborn. The Horn is reclaimed, now bound to Mat, and the Seanchan are driven back—for now—setting the stage for a world that can no longer ignore prophecy.
The Great Hunt Characters You’ll Love
The heart of The Great Hunt still lies with Rand, Mat, Perrin, Egwene, and Nynaeve — familiar faces from The Eye of the World whose journeys deepen as they grow into their roles in the Pattern. But Jordan also expands the cast, introducing or developing characters who become just as unforgettable.
- Loial — The gentle Ogier returns, offering wisdom, loyalty, a steady presence, and some comedic relief amid the chaos.
- Verin Mathwin — A Brown Ajah Aes Sedai whose bookish manner hides keen insight and quiet influence, making her a fascinating puzzle for readers to unravel.
- Ingtar Shinowa — A proud Shienaran lord who leads the hunt with courage and a strong sense of duty.
- Siuan Sanche — The Amyrlin Seat, leader of the Aes Sedai, commanding respect and carrying the weight of her authority.
- Min Farshaw — A practical and perceptive young woman whose uncanny ability to glimpse futures makes her indispensable.
- Elayne Trakand — The Daughter-Heir of Andor, intelligent and poised, who forms an early bond with Egwene.
Together, these characters, alongside familiar companions and new allies, carry the story into uncharted lands. Each encounter adds intrigue and depth to a journey that feels larger and more dangerous than before.
Beyond The Great Hunt: The Wheel of Time Companion
As the hunt continues and the world expands, The Wheel of Time Companion becomes an indispensable ally for navigating Jordan’s complex tapestry. This authoritative encyclopedia details every aspect of the series, from minor characters to major prophecies.
Last update on 2026-07-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Our affiliate disclosure has more details.
Why The Great Hunt is Worth Reading
For First-Time Readers: The Great Hunt is where the story broadens into a full-scale epic. The action is gripping, the world-building richer, and the sense of discovery even greater than in the first book. If you enjoyed the coming-of-age adventure in The Eye of the World, this sequel will show you just how vast and exciting Robert Jordan’s world really is.
For Experienced Fantasy Fans: This volume introduces deeper political intrigue, cultures with strikingly different worldviews, and prophecies that shift the balance of power. The Great Hunt demonstrates Jordan’s knack for weaving personal struggles with sweeping, legendary stakes. If you’re the kind of reader who relishes intricate plots and layered characters, you’ll find plenty to admire here.
For TV Series Viewers: Season 2 of the Prime Video adaptation draws heavily from The Great Hunt. Reading the novel gives you a fuller picture of the events, relationships, and mysteries behind the show. While the series adapts and reshapes some storylines, the book offers context and detail that make every twist more powerful — and sometimes quite different from what you’ve seen on screen.
Where to Buy The Wheel of Time Book 2
If you’re ready to continue your journey into Robert Jordan’s epic, here are some trusted booksellers where you can find The Great Hunt. I’ve included options for readers in different regions so you can choose what’s most convenient for you.
Last update on 2026-07-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Our affiliate disclosure has more details.
Complete Guide to The Great Hunt
We’ve created resources to help you get the most out of Robert Jordan’s second volume:
- Best Quotes from The Great Hunt — A collection of the most powerful, memorable lines that capture the book’s spirit.
- Complete Buying Guide — Find your perfect edition across all formats:
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The Wheel of Time Book 2 FAQ
Got questions about The Great Hunt? Here’s a concise guide to what readers most often ask — from its place in The Wheel of Time saga to the legends it introduces.
Who wrote The Great Hunt?
The Great Hunt was written by American fantasy author Robert Jordan (1948–2007). It is the second novel in his internationally bestselling series, The Wheel of Time.
When was The Great Hunt published?
The book was first published in the United States by Tor Books on November 15, 1990, and in the United Kingdom by Orbit Books on October 15, 1991.
How many chapters are in The Great Hunt?
The novel contains 50 chapters plus a prologue, titled In the Shadow.
How long is The Great Hunt?
With around 260,000 words (260,354 according to A Wheel of Time Wiki), The Great Hunt typically runs between 670–740 pages, depending on the edition. The 2021 Orbit paperback edition has 669 pages of story plus a glossary.
How long does it take to read The Great Hunt?
At an average reading speed of 200–250 words per minute, most readers spend 17–22 hours on the book. Casual readers often complete it in 2–3 weeks.
Is The Great Hunt part of a series?
Yes. It is Book 2 of The Wheel of Time, following The Eye of the World and preceding The Dragon Reborn. The complete saga includes 14 main novels and one prequel.
What age rating is The Great Hunt?
Typically recommended for ages 13+ (YA/adult crossover). Themes include violence, suspense, and light romantic elements, but nothing more explicit than the first book.
Is The Great Hunt a good starting point?
It’s better to start with The Eye of the World, since The Great Hunt builds directly on its characters and events.
What happens in The Great Hunt (without spoilers)?
It continues the story of Rand al’Thor and his friends as they join a dangerous quest tied to the legendary Horn of Valere. Along the way, the world expands with new cultures, prophecies, and powers, setting up the epic scope of the series.
Do I need to read The Great Hunt before watching Season 2 of The Wheel of Time on Prime Video?
Not strictly, but Season 2 adapts large portions of The Great Hunt. Reading it gives you more context and depth than the show alone.
What is “The Great Hunt of the Horn”?
The “Great Hunt” refers to a legendary quest for the Horn of Valere, a mythical artifact said to summon heroes of the past to fight for the Light. In the world of The Wheel of Time, Hunters of the Horn are celebrated adventurers who take part in this tradition.
Are there special editions of The Great Hunt?
Yes. In 2004, Starscape published it in two illustrated volumes for younger readers: The Hunt Begins and New Threads in the Pattern. In 2023, new media tie-in editions were released to coincide with Prime Video’s The Wheel of Time Season 2.
Who is on the cover of The Great Hunt?
The original Darrell K. Sweet cover art for The Great Hunt features Rand al’Thor, Selene, and Loial, with menacing Trollocs in the background. Like many of Sweet’s Wheel of Time covers, it captures the sense of adventure and danger, even if the scene is more impressionistic than literal.
Before and After The Great Hunt
For the best reading experience of The Wheel of Time series, here’s where The Great Hunt fits into the journey:
- Previous: The Eye of the World (Book 1) — The beginning of the saga, where Rand, Mat, Perrin, Egwene, and Nynaeve leave the Two Rivers for the first time.
- Current: The Great Hunt (Book 2) — A desperate pursuit that expands the world and raises the stakes.
- Next: The Dragon Reborn (Book 3) — A turning point where prophecy looms larger and destinies sharpen.
- Series Prequel: New Spring — Though published later, the prequel is best read after at least Book 5 (The Fires of Heaven) to avoid minor spoilers.
The full series spans 14 main volumes plus the prequel, concluding with A Memory of Light. While it may seem like a long road, each book builds on the last, creating a reading experience that has captivated fantasy fans for more than three decades.
About the Author of The Great Hunt
Robert Jordan (pen name of James Oliver Rigney Jr.) was born in Charleston, South Carolina in 1948. A lifelong reader, he devoured the works of Mark Twain and Jules Verne before the age of five. After earning a degree in physics from The Citadel, he served two tours in Vietnam with the U.S. Army, where he was decorated with the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze Star.
By the time he published The Great Hunt in 1990, Jordan had already proven himself a master storyteller. His detailed world-building and intricate plotting in the first two books of The Wheel of Time set the stage for one of the most ambitious fantasy series ever written.
Jordan’s ability to create characters with depth and realism shines in The Great Hunt, where the young heroes of The Eye of the World continue to grow into their destinies. His background in history and military service informed his vivid depictions of combat, strategy, and the burdens of leadership — elements that became central to the series as it expanded.
Today, Robert Jordan is remembered as one of fantasy’s most influential authors. The Wheel of Time continues to inspire new generations of readers and has found a fresh audience through the Prime Video television adaptation.
Discuss The Great Hunt (The Wheel of Time Book 2)
Thanks for exploring our guide to The Wheel of Time Book 2: The Great Hunt. We hope it helps you on your journey through Robert Jordan’s epic series. If you haven’t yet picked up your copy, you can find The Great Hunt on Amazon* and continue the adventure today.
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