The Way of Kings
Author: Brandon Sanderson
My Rating: 4.5/5
Book Summary
The Way of Kings, the first book in Brandon Sanderson’s The Stormlight Archive, introduces readers to the shattered world of Roshar. With intense storms shaping both the landscape and society, Roshar is home to multiple kingdoms, each grappling with internal and external conflicts. The story primarily follows Kaladin, a fallen soldier turned slave; Shallan, a young scholar with hidden motives; and Dalinar, a nobleman haunted by mysterious visions. As war looms and ancient secrets resurface, the characters’ paths converge in unexpected ways, setting the stage for a grand epic filled with mystery, magic, and destiny.
Ryan's Review
The Way of Kings is a breathtaking introduction to one of the most ambitious and intricate fantasy series in recent memory. Brandon Sanderson excels in creating vast, detailed worlds, and Roshar is no exception. Every element, from the brutal highstorms that ravage the land to the various cultures and their unique philosophies, is meticulously crafted, making the world feel both alien and real.
The pacing of the novel is methodical, with each point-of-view character given space to develop fully. Kaladin’s arc is especially powerful, as he struggles with deep despair and feelings of betrayal, while finding new purpose as a leader among slaves. His character journey from hopelessness to heroism is emotional and satisfying. Shallan, with her secret mission and complex personality, adds intellectual intrigue, while Dalinar’s visions and personal dilemmas provide gravitas and a sense of mystery to the larger narrative.
Sanderson’s hallmark magic systems—like Surgebinding and Shardblades—are intricate and grounded in a deep sense of logic, which makes their use fascinating to watch unfold. The combination of magic, political intrigue, and philosophical questions about leadership, honor, and legacy elevate the story beyond typical fantasy fare.
A potential drawback for some readers might be the novel’s length and the slow buildup, as Sanderson takes his time establishing the characters, world, and stakes. However, for those willing to immerse themselves in the rich detail, the payoff is incredibly rewarding. The climax, where several storylines collide, is explosive and sets up tantalizing possibilities for future books.
Conclusion: Definite Recommendation for Fantasy Lovers.
Notable Characters
- Kaladin Stormblessed: A former soldier turned slave, struggling with his own sense of failure and leadership as he discovers his abilities as a Surgebinder.
- Shallan Davar: A noblewoman and scholar with a hidden agenda, who is torn between her quest for knowledge and the dark secrets of her family.
- Dalinar Kholin: A highprince burdened by visions of the past and driven to unite his fractured kingdom, even as his honor and sanity are questioned.
- Szeth-son-son-Vallano: The enigmatic assassin in white, whose actions ripple across the world and hint at larger forces at play.
Quotable Quotes
- “The purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think, but to give you questions to think upon.”
- “Life before death. Strength before weakness. Journey before destination.” — The First Ideal of the Knights Radiant
- “You have to be a little insane to look at the world and hope.”
Additional Resources
Title Available for Purchase
The Way of Kings is available for purchase on Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble in hardcover, paperback, e-book, and audiobook. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Audiobook Resources
The audiobook narrated by Michael Kramer and Kate Reading is available across all platforms.
The Way of Kings audiobook is included in Spotify Premium . Starts at $11.99 per month for an indivdual account and 15 hours of audiobook listening.
The Way of Kings audiobook is available for purchase on Audible. Starts at $7.95 per month for an Audible Plus account.
Also check out the Libby app. It is free to install, and all the digital content from your library in Libby is free to borrow with a valid library card.
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