Words of Radiance is the second book in The Stormlight Archive series by Brandon Sanderson. Please read the first book, The Way of Kings, before this review. After the momentous events of the last book, the war against the Parshendi has taken a turn. Danilar must face assassins while trying to navigate politics and allies on the Shattered Plains. Kaladin has taken on a new role as bodyguard, and must find a way to balance his new responsibilities with his burgeoning powers. Shallan now journeys to the Shattered Plains as she battles her inner turmoil. On the other side of the war, the Parshendi’s leader Eshonai must decide what is best for her people: continued fighting, or peace after so many years?
I didn’t think I could love a book more than The Way of Kings. However, Sanderson proved me wrong and somehow managed to set the bar even higher with this second installation. This book was able to expand on the characters in the first book, and gave many more perspectives that enriched the plot. For me, Shallan’s backstory in particular was very striking, and it made her character make a lot more sense. Kaladin and Dalinar continue to grow, and the changes in their characters have made them some of my favorite characters of all time. This book is slightly longer than the first, with 1087 pages. However, Sanderon’s writing flows and makes the story a quick read, at least for me. If you enjoy fantasy, I implore you to begin this series if you haven’t already.