Book Review: Words of Radiance by Brandon Sanderson
Words of Radiance is the second book in Brandon Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive epic fantasy series. This entry in the series continues right where the first one The Way of Kings left off. A storm is coming and an ancient foe is on the horizon. As wealthy light eyes sacrifice the lives of lowly dark-eyed soldiers and slaves for riches, the Parshendi struggle to keep their people from utter annihilation and they are willing to do anything to protect themselves from extinction. The Parshendi will rely on the leadership of their only Shardbearer Ashonai to protect them from the constant onslaught of the Alethi armies who seek vengeance for a long-dead king. Will Ashoani play ambassador or warlord?
Shallan and Jasnah set out for the Shattered Plains but when they are attacked Shallan ends up on her own in a dangerous and unfamiliar land. She attempts the difficult task of acting as confident and important as her mentor Jasnah would be and in so doing she convinces a group of rebels to help her get to the Shattered Plains. She also meets a crafty woman named Tyn, who teaches Shallan how to decide and scam others. Shallan has many reasons compelling her forward. One is to marry Adolin, High Prince Dhalinar’s eldest son. Another reason is to use her new powers to save the world. No big deal. Will Shallan find the Oathgate and discover the secrets of the Voidbringers or will her deceptions cost her everything?
Kaladin is back and has become the head of Dhalinar's royal guard. As a dark-eyed ex-slave, he has to work hard to gain respect and when the King is attacked by Szeth, the assassin in white, Kaladin finds out how weak he is against the surge-binder with powers beyond those of mortal men. Kaladin explores the depths of his powers in an attempt to prepare himself for another attack but when he is forced to decide between two conflicting paths he finds an impossible choice. Betray the one he swore to protect or betray his best friend who deserves justice. Kaladin once again proves himself an incredible warrior but his quest for vengeance may be his undoing. Will Kaladin reject his storm-blessed potential or find his way back to faith?
Words of Radiance is a magnificent novel and the Stormlight Archive series has captivated my attention to no end. If you have read The Way of Kings then you will no doubt enjoy this continuation of the story as much as I have. I enjoyed this epic fantasy tale immensely and would recommend it to those who enjoy medieval-style high-fantasy. Strap in for a wild ride with Words of Radiance!