I have read all of the Wheel of Time series and loved them all... one of the most important details of the world is that the Aes Sedai are stoic, practical, ruthless and calculating. The intrigue within the Tower and between men who can channel and women in red who can channel has been muddied.

I understand the need to step away from the original Male vs Female plot device in our current society. But a reasonable justification has not been offered. I feel, in part, because the moral Fibre of the Aes Sedai cannot shoulder the weight of world molding schemers and manipulators that have kings wrapped around their fingers.

They have been made small... petty, mewling and whining.

The same is true of the Aiel.