In this second part of The Beginning of the Wheel of Time, Rand and his friends have fled from the city of Shadar Logoth overrun by Trollocs and Myrddraal. Sailing on the Spray ship down the Arinelle River, they decide to go separately to Tar Valon after hearing about a lost treasure, and to Caemlyn to talk to the Queen. But along the way they face many dangers along with their adventures.

As Perrin, Elyas, and Bela are heading to the city, they run across the Tinkers, a group of traveling people. Stopping to visit with these strangers before moving on, they learn that the Tinkers are believers in The Way Of The Leaf, a way of living with people without using any violence. Meanwhile, Rand and Mat are struggling to survive on their own by trying to earn money and a place to sleep. They wind up entertaining people by playing the flute and juggling balls in exchange for the things they need.

When Rand and Mat finally get to Caemlyn, they are relieved to find that the rest of their friends are alive. But they still face danger in the city of Caemlyn. Aginor, a wielder of the One Power and an ally of the Dark One, challenges Rand to a battle. Will Rand win against the One Power? Will he discover his true identity and destiny?

I liked this book because it made me think about what I would have done if I had been Rand traveling with his friends. What would you have done to survive? TO THE BLIGHT is part of the classic fantasy series, Wheel of Time, and I think you'll enjoy them.

   --- Reviewed by AshleyH88