World of Warcraft: Cycle of Hatred
Keith R. A. DeCandido · 2006
A few years after the Third War, Thrall's orcs in Durotar and Jaina Proudmoore's humans in Theramore keep an uneasy peace. Then a run of attacks on both sides threatens to start the war again, and Thrall and Jaina have to find out who is stoking it before their own people force their hands.
What this adds if you've played the games
The bridge between Warcraft III and the original game, and the reason the Barrens and Dustwallow Marsh feel so tense when you get there. Thrall and Jaina's friendship is at its best here, and Durotar and Theramore get some life. The plot is thin and you won't miss much without it, but it's short and catches the mood of early World of Warcraft.
Where it fits
- Read afterWarcraft III: Reign of Chaos
Set a few years after Reign of Chaos and built on the peace its ending leaves behind. Play Warcraft III first.
- Read beforeWorld of Warcraft
Takes place about a year before the original game and explains the tension you find in Durotar and Theramore. It spoils nothing there.
Editions
Simon & Schuster, Limited paperback
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