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The Way of Kings Review

Hi! I'm Liz and I review fantasy books!

The Way of Kings can be incredibly daunting, especially for people who don't read much high fantasy, 1200 pages is a LOT. However, for fans of the genre, I think it's a must-read.

I'm sure fans of Brandon Sanderson know about the Stormlight archives along with the rest of The Cosmere. Personally, my favorite is his standalone Warbreaker, the magic system alone was enough to blow my mind and leave me thinking for months.

Now, to The Way of Kings.

The size of the book can leave to-be readers wondering if all 1200 pages were necessary. I believe it was. I was hooked on the plot from the first pages. Every point of view and plotline was interesting and immersive. The characters had so much agency and personality it's hard to pick a favorite.

From Kaladin's strong will and leadership to Shallan's creativity and cunning and the mystery of Dalinar's visions that expanded the world and lore of Roshar. The character-driven story was packed with action, trials, successes, and failures.

There were some moments in the story I found myself skimming. Notably: Kaladin's flashbacks. I usually find that I react this way to flashbacks in books. Though, I do believe that were integral to understanding his character and I'm glad they were included. It showed how he developed the loyalty he carries throughout the book, as well as the pressure he puts on himself to help others.

Kaladin's character is strong. He seeks to make up for past failures and naturally finds himself the "captain" of the bridge crew 4. He sees the other members of the bridge crew, enslaved and half-dead, and gives them honor and purpose. His natural loyalty is infectious. His crew is full of personality (though it may take a bit to show) and while reading their interactions I truly felt they were a family, determined to keep each other alive in hostile conditions and in spite of the light-eyed leaders trying to control them.

What I find sticks with me is Dalinar's development vs. the parts of his character that remain static, as well as how his visions change his actions. Near the end of the book, this development really shines and he has badass moment after badass moment. I respected his honor from the beginning, but seeing him put it to practice in such ways in the climax was great to see. It leaves me wondering how his actions will affect the state of politics and the war later on.

Shallan was a character that was constantly surprising me. She's inquisitive and funny, but throughout her point of view, there is always a deeper and maybe darker theme. Throughout her wardship I see her motives challenged as well as changed as she learns more about the world, philosophy, and the old magic.

I find myself itching to start the next book immediately. For anyone on the edge of starting the long and ongoing high fantasy series, I must recommend it highly. We'll see how the characters make due as the events of The Stormlight Archives unfold.