Words of Radiance is the second novel in the Stormlight Archive series. If you haven’t already, check out the first novel; The Way of Kings.
In the realm of epic fantasy, where sweeping landscapes and intricate worlds collide with complex characters and enthralling narratives, few series can match the grandeur and ambition of The Stormlight Archive. At the heart of this extraordinary literary tapestry lies Words of Radiance, the second installment in Brandon Sanderson’s monumental saga. Published in 2014, this novel continues in with the beautiful world of Roshar.
Do you think you’re ready to jump back into a work of legends, knights, battle, and war?
Table of Contents [CLICK HERE TO OPEN]
About the Stormlight Archive Series
The Stormlight Archive is an epic fantasy series penned by acclaimed author Brandon Sanderson. Set in the richly imagined world of Roshar, the series follows a grand narrative filled with political intrigue, magical systems, and larger-than-life characters. With its meticulously constructed world-building, complex plotlines, and intricate magic systems, The Stormlight Archive has captivated readers with its sweeping scope and masterful storytelling.
The series explores the Knights Radiant, legendary warriors who possess magical abilities known as Surgebinding. As the ancient order resurfaces, their return brings hope and fear in equal measure. These Radiants, along with other key figures, are burdened with the responsibility of unraveling the mysteries of Roshar’s past and finding a way to save humanity from an impending cataclysm.
Each instalment of the series follows a different character, which we have included below!
The series currently contains 5 books:
- The Way of Kings – Kaladin Stormblessed (2010)
- Words of Radiance – Shallan Davar(2014)
- Oathbringer – Dalinar Kholin (2017)
- Rhythm of War – Venli (2020)
- Knights of Wind and Truth – Szeth-son-Neturo(Planned for 2024)
As well as three novellas:
- Edgedancer – Lift (2016)
- Dawnshard – Rysn Ftori (2020)
- Horneater – Rock (Planned Release Data 2024)
Official Description
Words of Radiance
Expected by his enemies to die the miserable death of a military slave, Kaladin survived to be given command of the royal bodyguards, a controversial first for a low-status “darkeyes.”
The Assassin, Szeth, is active again, murdering rulers all over the world of Roshar, using his baffling powers to thwart every bodyguard and elude all pursuers.
Brilliant but troubled Shallan strives along a parallel path. Despite being broken in ways she refuses to acknowledge, she bears a terrible burden: to somehow prevent the return of the legendary Voidbringers and the civilization-ending Desolation that will follow.
Meanwhile, at the heart of the Shattered Plains, the Parshendi are making an epochal decision. Hard pressed by years of Alethi attacks, their numbers ever shrinking, they are convinced by their war leader, Eshonai, to risk everything on a desperate gamble with the very supernatural forces they once fled. The possible consequences for Parshendi and humans alike, indeed, for Roshar itself, are as dangerous as they are incalculable.
Our Overview
Words of Radiance is the second installment in the epic fantasy series, The Stormlight Archive, written by renowned author Brandon Sanderson. This expansive and immersive novel picks up where its predecessor, The Way of Kings, left off, plunging readers deeper into the richly crafted world of Roshar and the lives of its compelling characters.
The story centers around the lives of a diverse group of characters, each with their own struggles and secrets. Kaladin, a former slave and now a Windrunner, continues to battle with himself. He seeks to protect his friends, defend the innocent, and soon learns how to use his newly-discovered powers.
Shallan Davar, a talented artist with a dark past, embarks on a journey of self-discovery as she seeks to unlock the secrets of the ancient order of the Knights Radiant. With the guidance of Jasnah Kholin, a scholar and renowned heretic, Shallan soon delves deeper into her own abilities and uncovers hidden truths about the world she inhabits.
As war looms on the horizon, tensions rise between the high princes of Alethkar. Dalinar Kholin, a high-ranking noble and uncle to the king, both wants to unite the feuding factions and prepare for the imminent conflict known as the Desolation.
Meanwhile, the Parshendi harbor their own secrets and hold the key to the world’s fate. As their plans unfold, the delicate balance of power on Roshar is at stake.
As the novel progresses, secrets are quickly revealed, alliances are forged, and new threats emerge. Battles are fought, both on physical and metaphysical planes, with the fate of Roshar hanging in the balance. Soon, ancient prophecies come to light, offering glimmers of hope and dire warnings for the future.
Our Review
At the heart of this epic tale are the complex characters who drive the narrative forward. Kaladin, Shallan, and Dalinar are brilliantly written, each with their own unique struggles, motivations, and growth arcs. Sanderson takes great care in exploring these depths, showcasing their flaws, strengths, and emotional turmoil with masterful precision. Their journeys, both internal and external, captivate readers and evoke a genuine emotional investment.
The world of Roshar is a breathtaking tapestry of intricate lore and innovative magic systems. The attention to detail and the sheer scale of the world-building are awe-inspiring. From the dynamic and dangerous landscapes to the fascinating societal structures and the enigmatic history, every aspect of Roshar then feels vividly alive. We’ve already raved about this in our review of The Way of Kings, so we won’t go into more detail about Roshar.
The pacing is expertly executed. This is hard to achieve for a book of this size. A testament to Sanderson’s skills, if you ask me. Furthermore when balancing intense action sequences with moments of introspection and character development. Sanderson effortlessly weaves together these multiple narrative threads, unveiling secrets, prophecies, and surprising twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats without being confused. One of the amazing things about this series is its accessibility. Even though there are multiple plot lines, characters, and a huge magic system, it is written simply and easy to understand.
The surgebinding powers of the Knights Radiant and the interplay of stormlight, spren, and Shardblades are enthralling. The magical battles are rendered with vivid detail, making each confrontation a thrilling spectacle.
Sanderson’s prose is elegant and immersive, striking a perfect balance between descriptive beauty and propulsive storytelling. His dialogue is sharp and authentic, capturing the distinct voices of the characters. The book’s length may seem daunting, but the seamless flow of the narrative and the sheer quality of the writing make it a page-turner that never feels overly burdensome.
Words of Radiance is a triumph of epic fantasy that will leave you spellbound. With its masterful world-building, compelling characters, and intricate plot, it delivers an experience that transcends the boundaries of the genre. We can’t recommend this series enough — especially for those who find these huge fantasy series daunting. So this is the perfect series to bring you into the world of fantasy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Wit and Jasnah dating?
SPOILER ALERT FOR BOOK 3!!!!
Jasnah is confirmed to be asexual, but she is willing to offer Wit intimacy because she cares for him deeply. The pair seem surprisingly well-matched.
What happened in Words of Radiance?
Once safe in Urithiru, Adolin kills Sadeas in a rage. The Shardblade Oathbringer appears, so Adolin drops it out a window to hide it.
Nalan, Herald of Justice, revives Szeth and gives him a sword called Nightblood. The Assassin in White begins an apprenticeship under Nalan as a Skybreaker.
Jasnah Kholin exits Shadesmar, alive and well.
How many books will be in Words of Radiance?
The Stormlight Archive series will be comprised of 5 novels and 3 novellas. Currently, 4 novels and 2 novellas are published and the remaining instalments expected in 2024.
Should I read Edgedancer after Words of Radiance?
It contains information that is helpful to know (specifically in one of the battles); not just about Lift, but Darkness as well. Mr. Sanderson himself recommends reading Edgedancer first, in his acknowledgment section of Oathbringer.
