Review of Words of Radiance. It’s book 2 in the Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson. Not an Easy Read — But Worth it! Review by Merick N.H. Ulrik of Words of Radiance Mostly-Non Spoiler – Review of Brandon Sanderson’s “Words of Radiance” Book 2 of The Stormlight Archive. Not an easy Read — But Worth it! It should go without saying that you should read “Way of Kings” before reading “Words of Radiance.”
Brandon Sanderson is a geniuse.
I enjoyed Words of Radiance. It’s a brilliant book but I want to be honest and give my experience reading this book. First off, I thought that after reading “Way of Kings” that “Words of Radiance” would be a faster read for me. It was not. Everything to do with Kaladin Stormblessed was moving and engaging. For me Shallan Davar’s backstory scenes were useful to know but kind of boring to me. I am just one man. Maybe that would not be your experience. The scenes with her in the present timeline were more exciting.
Well developed characters.
The other character storylines besides Dalinar Kholin, Shallan Davar and Kaladin Stormblessed were slower. And possibly there to change the pace. I have not read the third book, so I am sure they have more tie-ins later. There is a huge plot building that involves the future of the whole cosmere and Alethkar in particular. Bridge Four, Kaladin’s men. Every scene they are in makes me glad I am reading. There were so many times I had to put the book down and laugh slightly and smile, because of bridge four. Between Lopen the comedic one-arm, Herdazian and Rock the love-able and strong, enduring Unkalaki, “Bridge Four” is a rich group of supporting characters.
This book had the spectrum of emotions. Big reveals that I do not want to spoil. Character development and betrayal.
There was even a scene that made me cry, just tear up. “I will protect even those I hate,'” Kaladin whispered through bloody lips. ‘So long as it is right.’”) Consequently, there were info-dumps about safe hands and cultures and geology and species of animals that just made me feel like I was eating my vegetables.
I will protect even those I hate.
Kaladin Stormblessed
Character development.
Surprisingly, Adolin Kholin becomes a much more likeable character in this book, admirable. There are some surprise actions between Dalinar and Adolin and Kaladin that just kick you in the heart and make you speed read, followed by more world-builing, the kind that make you feel you are eating your vegetables, scenes about types of foliage on the shattered plains and songs of the Parshendi.
Books by Merick N. H. Ulrik.
But if Sanderson didn’t slow the pace down between the really action packed and heart gripping scenes, it would be unsustainable. This book is not an easy read. But the ending makes it worthwhile. I promise that if you read “The Way of Kings” and were satisfied with the ending, you will also be satisfied with “Words of Radiance” as well. I give this book 4.8 out of 5 stars!
