Rhythm of War: Book Four of The Stormlight Archive (The Stormlight Archive, 4)

Journey before destination. A key thing in the series thus far and it makes me sad that Sanderson did not take that to heart in writing this book. The end being really good does not make up for the meat of the book being disjointed and not fun. It is not a bad book in the grand scheme of things, but it IS a bad book in comparison to the other Archive books. The vast majority of characters we see repeat themes from the previous books. Mental health is a major thing in this book both to its credit and detriment. I understand it is a constant struggle for many people but I feel as though that very constant struggle hurts the book. There just seemed to be very little progress in the book. It would be one thing if it was at least fun to read but that was not really the case. It more depressing and dark than previous books especially adding in the mental health bits. The flow of the story was constantly interrupted, mainly by flashbacks. Flashbacks that added nothing into the story of any relevance. This was easily my favorite series that I was reading, I looked forward to each release. In the previous books I found myself reading constantly with as few interruptions as I could. This book was not like that. With this one I found myself putting it down to do other things, especially when one of the aforementioned flashback chapters came up. This book combined with Sanderson saying he plans on this being a 10 book series divided into two 5 books parts leaves me sad, disappointed and worried going forward.

I'm about 50% of the way through the book, so far i'm really not enjoying the split personality disorder and how much it feels like the word count has been expanded to account for these long irritating inner debates. .

Almost everything that made this series amazing in the first 2 books has been whittled away to mere sidenotes. The downward spiral started in book 3 and bottoms out with this book. You can read the first 100 pages and the last 100 pages and get every important point of the book without having to struggle through constant, boring, repetitive "whimpering in fear BECAUSE OF ALL MY TRAUMA!!!" and psychotherapy 101 plotlines. There is also really no sense of risk for any of the major characters; one or two side characters always get offed but you always know there are no real stakes for any of the others. None of the other radiant classes are developed at all. These books were 10x better when it was warriors with massive magical blades in almost indestructible magical-powered super-armor just fighting in huge battles and sometimes duelling. Go back to that, please.

I wrote another review, but wanted to be a bit more concise. * I love Brandon Sanderson stories, but RoW falls into the same trap as many fantasy series that drag on past 3 books. * I'd only recommend this book to those readers who are very Invested in The Cosmere. It basically has The Architect scene from The Matrix strung out through much of the book. * Shallan, Navani and Venli are interesting characters. Wit's always good and I could've read more chapters about The Mink. Dalinar and Jasnah are just kind of there. Lift is awesome, but she's lost in the shuffle. Lirin (Kaladin) and Adolin drag down the entire book. * RoW should've been the first book in a new trilogy. As book #4 in the Archive, it's about 400-600 pages too long. Sanderson should have just included Dawnshard if he needed 1200 pages for publication. Additional Notes: 1. Lirin drags down all the Kaladin chapters and eventually the entire book. His character is so flat that it's nearly impossible to read his and Kaladin's chapters. Point made after 2 chapters. Time to move on. 2. Adolin drags down all of Shallan's chapters. The whining gets incredibly old after a very short period of time. Got the gist 2 books ago. 3. The interludes aren't needed. They're either a PoV for a character in the main story arc (should've been a chapter) or too short to add anything to the world. For example, I-8 adds very little and that's a stretch unless you've read Dawnshard. 4. It feels like there are too many facts not in evidence. I've read the 6 Mistborn books, Unbounded and Dawnshard. I still feel like I had to buy and read Warbreaker about mid way through reading RoW. Didn't help, which wasn't a great feeling. RoW would be especially confusing without Unbounded and coppermind.net (fair warning, coppermind has many RoW spoilers in addition to other useful information. The best books are the ones you can reread and still enjoy after knowing everything though).

It’s like Stormlight and the Cosmere are taking an important turn....and it is well-worth the ride! This book is packed with action from the very start and answers questions we began asking in Way of Kings. Navani’s POV is a wonderful inclusion. The development of many third-tier characters also shows the way the series will progress as newer characters come into the spotlight. I laughed. I cried. I was on the edge of my seat. Worth the wait and excited for the next volume!

I didn't know what to expect but I was really looking forward to this book since this is one of the best series out right now but all I got out of this is frustration. It almost reads like a self help book about how every character feels sorry for themselves. I can understand since I served 5 years in the USMC and I have my dark days too but the characters go on large monologues that turn into tangents with hardly any action. It hard to take some of the angst to heart because at the end of the day most are good looking people with phenomenal skills. I understand that being good looking or being good at something doesn't stop depression or other mental illnesses but as a person who really suffers from depression and doesn't go a day without thinking of the people I have seen die it is aggravating to read. It comes off as preachy and I assumed we were moving forward with the Radiants. I assumed they were going to finally become stronger but they actually deteriorate with their loathing. They haven't become stronger, they have become weaker. I was extremely disappointed with Kaladin's role in this book. In a lot of ways I can relate to him but the thing I liked most about him was that he was the man I always inspired to be while I was in the military. I know Sanderson wanted to make him realistic but all it did was make my depression worse. Kaladin has his moments but they hardly outshine the rest. Kaladin was at his worst in this book and I have lost most of my inspiration and faith in him. This leads me to Kaladin's father-Lirin. He's a typical anti war persona and at times I can find people like that admirable but he just comes off as a bootlicker with no standards willing to bow to anyone as long as there is no fighting. Then again he is the father who let his sons get stomped on and sent to war without much bickering, so I honestly shouldn't expect much from him. I wouldn't be surprised if Lirin would not make a fuss if his wife was taken by some noble. Shallan is interesting and I like her but her tangents went on far too long in this book. I'm actually shocked none of the beta readers took a step back to address some of the useless monologues she had and tried to cut it down. Adolin was the most interesting character in this book and I could go on about it but I don't want to spoil anything. I'm on the fence about continuing this series. What a shame

To avoid spoilers I will say that this book does an incredible amount of work setting up for the arc finale, but like all things penultimate leaves a little to be desired. Unlike the previous entries, most of what is happening in RoW is internalized conflict while the world itself carries on mostly unaffected. That isn't necessarily a bad thing, though I feel like it should be a much shorter book. Instead, it is the largest entry with the least amount of progression. There are some other issues with this book, namely characters rehashing demons most readers would have long assumed were laid to rest. There isn't much to say in way of plot that isn't a spoiler, so I will leave it at that. The lack of progress and meandering aside, the book ends in typical Sanderson fashion with all the threads coming together wonderfully and leaving the reader ready for more. While it is the lowest point in Stormlight so far, it still stands incredibly tall on the shoulders of its predecessors, while setting the stage for a conclusion that is sure to leave readers shocked.

Just starting book four and I’m hooked again, Sanderson’s writing is fantastic. The book itself is well thought out and detailed with some beautiful illustrations throughout, colored pictures on the insides of the cover and even the inside of the jacket is a colored map of the entire world. This is better than illustrated editions I have purchased, and this doesn’t claim to be one.

I love the Stormlight series but this felt like it was written by someone else. Gone are the poetry and the clever quips. This is just a set of notes stretched out to meet a word quota. Incoherent run on sentences and abrupt storytelling make a series of events, not a story. Many authors try to stretch a great story into 10 books. The middle books always suffer for it but are at least worth reading to re-experience the world and characters. This "book" doesn't even feel like it has the same characters in it. I didn't laugh or cry.

The main plot is very simple. But the book is far too long and filled with needless stories and side plots. In the end the author tries to find spiritual depth but it fell like he is missing the main essence of it all.

Journey before destination. A key thing in the series thus far and it makes me sad that Sanderson did not take that to heart in writing this book. The end being really good does not make up for the meat of the book being disjointed and not fun. It is not a bad book in the grand scheme of things, but it IS a bad book in comparison to the other Archive books. The vast majority of characters we see repeat themes from the previous books. Mental health is a major thing in this book both to its credit and detriment. I understand it is a constant struggle for many people but I feel as though that very constant struggle hurts the book. There just seemed to be very little progress in the book. It would be one thing if it was at least fun to read but that was not really the case. It more depressing and dark than previous books especially adding in the mental health bits. The flow of the story was constantly interrupted, mainly by flashbacks. Flashbacks that added nothing into the story of any relevance. This was easily my favorite series that I was reading, I looked forward to each release. In the previous books I found myself reading constantly with as few interruptions as I could. This book was not like that. With this one I found myself putting it down to do other things, especially when one of the aforementioned flashback chapters came up. This book combined with Sanderson saying he plans on this being a 10 book series divided into two 5 books parts leaves me sad, disappointed and worried going forward.

I'm about 50% of the way through the book, so far i'm really not enjoying the split personality disorder and how much it feels like the word count has been expanded to account for these long irritating inner debates. .

Almost everything that made this series amazing in the first 2 books has been whittled away to mere sidenotes. The downward spiral started in book 3 and bottoms out with this book. You can read the first 100 pages and the last 100 pages and get every important point of the book without having to struggle through constant, boring, repetitive "whimpering in fear BECAUSE OF ALL MY TRAUMA!!!" and psychotherapy 101 plotlines. There is also really no sense of risk for any of the major characters; one or two side characters always get offed but you always know there are no real stakes for any of the others. None of the other radiant classes are developed at all. These books were 10x better when it was warriors with massive magical blades in almost indestructible magical-powered super-armor just fighting in huge battles and sometimes duelling. Go back to that, please.

I wrote another review, but wanted to be a bit more concise. * I love Brandon Sanderson stories, but RoW falls into the same trap as many fantasy series that drag on past 3 books. * I'd only recommend this book to those readers who are very Invested in The Cosmere. It basically has The Architect scene from The Matrix strung out through much of the book. * Shallan, Navani and Venli are interesting characters. Wit's always good and I could've read more chapters about The Mink. Dalinar and Jasnah are just kind of there. Lift is awesome, but she's lost in the shuffle. Lirin (Kaladin) and Adolin drag down the entire book. * RoW should've been the first book in a new trilogy. As book #4 in the Archive, it's about 400-600 pages too long. Sanderson should have just included Dawnshard if he needed 1200 pages for publication. Additional Notes: 1. Lirin drags down all the Kaladin chapters and eventually the entire book. His character is so flat that it's nearly impossible to read his and Kaladin's chapters. Point made after 2 chapters. Time to move on. 2. Adolin drags down all of Shallan's chapters. The whining gets incredibly old after a very short period of time. Got the gist 2 books ago. 3. The interludes aren't needed. They're either a PoV for a character in the main story arc (should've been a chapter) or too short to add anything to the world. For example, I-8 adds very little and that's a stretch unless you've read Dawnshard. 4. It feels like there are too many facts not in evidence. I've read the 6 Mistborn books, Unbounded and Dawnshard. I still feel like I had to buy and read Warbreaker about mid way through reading RoW. Didn't help, which wasn't a great feeling. RoW would be especially confusing without Unbounded and coppermind.net (fair warning, coppermind has many RoW spoilers in addition to other useful information. The best books are the ones you can reread and still enjoy after knowing everything though).

It’s like Stormlight and the Cosmere are taking an important turn....and it is well-worth the ride! This book is packed with action from the very start and answers questions we began asking in Way of Kings. Navani’s POV is a wonderful inclusion. The development of many third-tier characters also shows the way the series will progress as newer characters come into the spotlight. I laughed. I cried. I was on the edge of my seat. Worth the wait and excited for the next volume!

I didn't know what to expect but I was really looking forward to this book since this is one of the best series out right now but all I got out of this is frustration. It almost reads like a self help book about how every character feels sorry for themselves. I can understand since I served 5 years in the USMC and I have my dark days too but the characters go on large monologues that turn into tangents with hardly any action. It hard to take some of the angst to heart because at the end of the day most are good looking people with phenomenal skills. I understand that being good looking or being good at something doesn't stop depression or other mental illnesses but as a person who really suffers from depression and doesn't go a day without thinking of the people I have seen die it is aggravating to read. It comes off as preachy and I assumed we were moving forward with the Radiants. I assumed they were going to finally become stronger but they actually deteriorate with their loathing. They haven't become stronger, they have become weaker. I was extremely disappointed with Kaladin's role in this book. In a lot of ways I can relate to him but the thing I liked most about him was that he was the man I always inspired to be while I was in the military. I know Sanderson wanted to make him realistic but all it did was make my depression worse. Kaladin has his moments but they hardly outshine the rest. Kaladin was at his worst in this book and I have lost most of my inspiration and faith in him. This leads me to Kaladin's father-Lirin. He's a typical anti war persona and at times I can find people like that admirable but he just comes off as a bootlicker with no standards willing to bow to anyone as long as there is no fighting. Then again he is the father who let his sons get stomped on and sent to war without much bickering, so I honestly shouldn't expect much from him. I wouldn't be surprised if Lirin would not make a fuss if his wife was taken by some noble. Shallan is interesting and I like her but her tangents went on far too long in this book. I'm actually shocked none of the beta readers took a step back to address some of the useless monologues she had and tried to cut it down. Adolin was the most interesting character in this book and I could go on about it but I don't want to spoil anything. I'm on the fence about continuing this series. What a shame

To avoid spoilers I will say that this book does an incredible amount of work setting up for the arc finale, but like all things penultimate leaves a little to be desired. Unlike the previous entries, most of what is happening in RoW is internalized conflict while the world itself carries on mostly unaffected. That isn't necessarily a bad thing, though I feel like it should be a much shorter book. Instead, it is the largest entry with the least amount of progression. There are some other issues with this book, namely characters rehashing demons most readers would have long assumed were laid to rest. There isn't much to say in way of plot that isn't a spoiler, so I will leave it at that. The lack of progress and meandering aside, the book ends in typical Sanderson fashion with all the threads coming together wonderfully and leaving the reader ready for more. While it is the lowest point in Stormlight so far, it still stands incredibly tall on the shoulders of its predecessors, while setting the stage for a conclusion that is sure to leave readers shocked.

Just starting book four and I’m hooked again, Sanderson’s writing is fantastic. The book itself is well thought out and detailed with some beautiful illustrations throughout, colored pictures on the insides of the cover and even the inside of the jacket is a colored map of the entire world. This is better than illustrated editions I have purchased, and this doesn’t claim to be one.

I love the Stormlight series but this felt like it was written by someone else. Gone are the poetry and the clever quips. This is just a set of notes stretched out to meet a word quota. Incoherent run on sentences and abrupt storytelling make a series of events, not a story. Many authors try to stretch a great story into 10 books. The middle books always suffer for it but are at least worth reading to re-experience the world and characters. This "book" doesn't even feel like it has the same characters in it. I didn't laugh or cry.

The main plot is very simple. But the book is far too long and filled with needless stories and side plots. In the end the author tries to find spiritual depth but it fell like he is missing the main essence of it all.

I think Brandon Sanderson may have trouble sticking with a single tone, consistent main character, and thus gets lost in his own explorations. He repeats the same crisis over-and-over, meaning the prior successes and resolutions lose significance. It becomes more of a "soap opera" than a drama. I love Stormlight Archives, largely from the mix of action and character development of Kaladin. I think Brandon is bored with Kaladin. From his viewpoint, he's probably hoping to "develop him further", but in the process he loses what I liked about him. You'll read in other reviews, mental health becomes THE central theme in this novel. I'm a physician, I'm interested in the topic, but not overwhelming my fantasy. SPOILERS SPOILERS BELOW So, for instance, Dalinar struggled with one particular mental health issue - alcoholism. He overcame it and now is becoming the main character. In this book, towards the end, he's clearly the central character. Kaladin, on the other hand, keeps repeating his battle with depression. He made a huge stride at the end of this one...but he's made a huge stride before, but was right back into the crisis and hopeless to the point of suicide here. In the end, despite not dying and even swearing a new ideal, he's changed professions. Dalinar characterizes him as "not the greatest warrior, but a good soldier" and not his pick of champion. Ok, so Kaladin isn't central anymore...if he's my favorite character, what motivation do I have to keep reading? I feel like I did when I identified with characters in GRR Martin's work and he killed them. Fine, you killed my character, but you also killed my interest. Shallan has never really interested me. I skip her stuff. It's ok, but she's more annoying than interesting to me and continues so. Perhaps a different series with her as the main character, but that's not how he writes. The deal at the end makes Wit look stupid. There's going to be a final fight in 10 days. Only, I don't care anymore. I know we're just going to repeat the same struggles over and over. The mysteries...the Cosmere world building...were interesting to me, but I begin to realize it's like Lost, the tv series. The mysteries are interesting, but the resolutions are going to be dissatisfying and therefore not worth investing this much in. Who is Wit/Hoid? Well, he's an idiot that gets worked, so why do I care? Just one "for instance". The series began as fairly straightforward. Good/evil and more recently Humans/Parshmen. In this book, some of the Parshmen/Singers become radiants and are "good", so now I have to keep track of even more indistinguishable characters with obscure motivations. Good night...can I have another 1000 pages that should have been edited? No, thank you. So, I've lost most of my interest. It's just going in circles without much direction. Soap operas and comic books do that...maybe they'll bring back Phoenix. Maybe she'll die again. Once I stop caring, it's hard to re-start.

Disappointing to say the least. A huge decline in the series that began with the wonderful Way of kings. Way too bloated with several uninteresting characters with terrible dull backstories . The split personality chapters in particular were the worst.

Definitely my least favorite in the series. This book halted almost all advancement in the story and reduced all of the characters to traumatized whiners. I get it, PTSD is a serious issue. As a Soldier myself I have dealt with my share of issues. That doesn't mean I want to read an ENTIRE book dedicated to the main hero curling up in the fetal position and shaking because he can't figure out how to deal with his problems. I'm half way through the book and find myself skipping most the chapter because I'm beginning to actively hate the character. Also, what the freaking point of all the flashbacks? That part of the story was already covered and now we're just rehashing it over and over again.

We LOVE Brandon Sanderson! We LOVE the Stormlight Archive! But this printing of this book is missing chapters 12-15, and instead has chapters 16-18 printed twice in succession. I had to buy the Kindle version so we can figure out what happened in between!!

My favorite author wrote this? So tough to believe. I found it to be excruciatingly slow and tough to read, especially with the story jumping all over the place. I have read all his works and this does not remotely read as something he would write. Very, very disappointing.

Kal is still crying and whining about losing people. Shallan is still trying not to remember, and her personality disorder worse than ever. If you want to read a book that’s 15% actual plot progress and 85% mental illness with boring, cringe worthy writing, then this is the book for you. Returning it along with the audiobook.

First this book in e-form is unstable. Don't know how many times book skipped to the end when turning page and then trying to find my place again. Lastly, first two books I couldn't out down. Couldn't wait for next. Book three was harder to stay interested in story, book four has virtually killed any interest in pursuing this story further. This is first book of B Sanderson's that I wanted to stop reading in the middle. I finished it hoping for something to offer life support to dieing interest. No such luck, flat lined.

Let's be honest, at probably over 6K pages deep, I'm in for the 5th installment regardless. However, will I be starting the next five in the Arc afterward? Stormlight 5 better be one amazing Return of the Jedi level event to get me there! It felt like 75% of this book was wrapped up in Mental Health issues. This is a very important topic and I'm so glad it was represented... but it was so much that the reading wasn't actually fun in many chapters. A sad change in narrative considering book 2 is the only time in my life I remember yelling outloud in victory while reading a book (you know the scene). Equally depressing--the antagonists get the most Spades here. Our heroes make some progress and find some balance but it's clear who is much in the lead by the close of the book. Favorite characters get much less screen time, Venli is an uninspiring and sluggish link to the planet's native people, and my very favorite supporting character takes a massive hit in the Epilogue out of nowhere ...so we end on a discordant note with an off-key future. All that being said, there is a ton of setup here for things to come. It isn't clear where it will resolve and (presumably) we can look back and see why so much of this was necessary. In other news, Dawnshard was excellent. Lopen! You're my hero, gancho.

Was 3 extremely long books of Kaladin being depressed not enough for you? Were you upset thinking that Shallan's identity crisis was resolved after 3 books and wanted more? Then Rhythm of War is for you! Because you get MORE of Kaladin's depression and Shallan not able to face the real her. This book is long not because it has a lot to say, but because it keeps saying the same things over and over again. Everything is telegraphed so far out, but it just stretches out the obvious conclusions we all see coming for so freaking long.

I've enjoyed the previous three books, but this one was a drag - I often found something else to do, or skimmed chapters. Brandon kept Cosmere secrets in previous books, but then decided to pile up all the info in this one, and explain them through "science". I would prefer gradual reveal... Jasnah, Wit felt off - she wasn't as crisp and all-knowing, and he was too careless & in love. Kaladin was put between a rock and hard place, but was stripped of his will and powers. Then got saved 2x by external forces that just so happened to be passing through. I get it, we can't lose him, there's book 5 - but the way he got saved not stretches but breaks the belief. Dalinar accepted duel of champions on the spot, with preparation time of 10 days, fully not prepared for it? As others wrote - it seems people had to get to places, talk to characters so Sanderson moved them there/promoted them to levels they needed to be, but without usual subtlety. I will get the book 5

***small spoilers, not plot related*** This book has twists starting in the beginning in the earliest chapters and has the satisfying result of entangling the entire Cosmere. I was thrilled to see pieces coming together that I hoped to see bring answers. Sanderson has done it again, and I already can't wait for book 5! I honestly don't understand the people that are complaining. I love the deep character development and the intricate detail of the world itself. The book significantly connects Roshar to other worlds in the Cosmere and that alone is worth its weight in gold. My ONLY complaint is that Jasnah apparently became a knight of the 4th ideal and we have no mention of how it happened. I wish she were more a part of the central story. Everything else adds depth...but I wonder if some of the people complaining haven't read things outside of Stormlight Archive.

This book was a long, boring slog of self loathing and self flagellation. Almost no attention was given to interesting characters like Lift and Szeth. Most of the book was Shallan and Kaladin wallowing in self loathing. Really not sure if I want to read any more stormlight archive books after this.

I love Sanderson and I love this series, but this book was a chore to read from start to finish. Having characters struggle with mental health issues while they save the world is great! Having them struggle with mental health issues INSTEAD of saving the world is boring. It isn't fun to read. Normally I have to force myself to put a Sanderson book down before I'm finished. This time, I had to repeatedly force myself to pick it up.

NO SPOILERS. I don't usually review a book before I finish it, but I can't help myself because I am so frustrated by this book. I am 25% through Rhythm of War, and I can't believe how boring it is. It has been 300 pages of exposition! Seriously - what happened to the story? I LOVED the first three books in this cycle. In fact, I have read and loved nearly everything Brandon Sanderson has written. He is among my favorite fantasy authors, along with Robin Hobb and Joe Abercrombie. However, I honestly don't know if I will continue reading this book. Thus far it has been page after page of internal monologues, deep dives into character motivations, background material and obscure history. Did I really just read 3 pages about Adolin picking out his clothes for the day?! What is going on? The plot has hardly advanced from an initial battle scene. I don't believe that all these one sentence 5 star reviews are legit. If I do decide to finish this book, I hope I find that my initial perceptions were wrong. I hope I find that the 300 pages of exposition were totally necessary to this story. If that is the case, I will come back and amend my review.

There is no way that Brandon Sanderson wrote this. He must have handed it off to a ghost that wanted to get their feet wet and then it was too late. Walk away from this mess. I re-read the first 3 books plus novellas right before this and they were Sanderson to a T and then this book came and there is no way this is Sanderson. No way. The cheap slap together space operas handle their characters better than this.

I normally have enjoyed nearly all of Mr. Sanderson's books - to the point that when one pops up on my feed, I immediately pre-order it. This one, has been rough. Chapter after chapter, character after character, scene after scene of endlessly going over mixed feelings about one course of action or another. This series started out as a ripping yarn. It seems to be ending with an editor that won't say no. ZERO killing of darlings contained within. For those invested in this series, it does provide the arcs needed, and twists to launch the final book. I'm just not sure it's worth more than a quick surmise off a spoiler page. Die hard fans will love it. I fought it. Hoping the next one reads more like what I consider Sanderson in his prime.

If you didn't have enough of Kaladin and his issues in the earlier books, you're in luck. He'll spend most of this book wallowing in depression, and it doesn't get much better. Shallan will continue her identity crisis, again for the entire story. The same for a bunch of other characters, 1230 pages worth of waiting for them to get over it. I am autistic and have suffered depression my whole life. Reading a fantasy book is literally about escapism, and I'm not particularly thrilled to get bludgeoned over the head with the exact problems I'm trying to get a break from in what is supposed to be an epic series by my favorite author. At 50% finished, I realized I didn't even want to finish this book. It's twice as long as it needed to be, filler that serves to force character development to a degree that is extremely annoying and doesn't seem necessary. But I've read all the other Cosmere books and read each of the Stormlight books twice, so it's basically impossible to abandon it after getting this far. The whole Lady of Wishes & Navini deal feels forced to provide the conclusion Sanderson wanted. The Lady has ridiculous intuitive ability, and Navini acts dumb as a rock sometimes, repeatedly falling for the same lies like an idiot. Frankly, Gavilar was right about her. I couldn't suspend my disbelief on these two. Then there's my most hated writer mechanic, the repetitive flashback sequences. Yeah, this isn't new but I'm sick of it. I really don't care about Venli or her arc. I found myself doing something I rarely do with a book; skimming. Through the flashbacks, through the pointless bantering and eye rolling introspection that covers pages. I regret buying this book. I'll have to read the next one with how much Investiture I have into the series, but I'll be getting it from the library.

I consider myself a fan of Brandon Sanderson's work (including his incomplete Academic short "I Hate Dragons" which is coffee-thru-the-nose funny) still he never fails to surprise me with his endings. Halfway thru the book I thought I could see where the buildup was going - but no - I was again thrown by his creative vision. Sanderson's world-building skills, combined with extensive character evolution, drive the action ever forward in this 4th volume of the The Stormlight Archives. In this narrative - taking place in the mounting War crisis - we are treated to not just action sequences but also deep-dives into characters on both sides of the conflict, featuring insights into the societal differences that separate the two . These strong immersive sequences sit side-by-each with the unexpectedly tender dialogues between husbands and wives, fireside camaraderie of warriors taking a moment to bond over stew, and the all-to-real depictions of characters dealing with the mental strain that war will inflict on the participants as well as those who wait. According to the author the series has one more entry - then a second 5 volume Arc. Apparently I have to track down the Doctor because I simply do not want to wait that long! Has anyone seen the Tardis?????

There are just some books out there that a review can't do justice. Rhythm of War is that particular book. It is a journey of plot and character development on a level I have never seen before. For one, the Stormlight Archive series has always had some of the tightest plot threads of any series I have ever read. Which makes it an overall compelling story. However with Rhythm of War Sanderson went, in my honest opinion, a different route. Yes this book still has a tight plot but where this book shines is that is extremely character driven. The characters were put through unimaginable hardships and journeys of self discovery. I have come to love these characters as if they were a part of my family and the fact that Sanderson decided to hurt my family is unacceptable. Totally joking, they are his characters and he can do what he pleases. There were many times I found myself wanting to jump into this novel and hug my family because they were going through so much. Rhythm of War is the penultimate installment before the big closing of the first arc in the Archive. I for one think Sanderson hit it out of the park. RoW exceeded all my expectations and has truly solidified its place as my favorite book of the year. Yes the year is not over and I will be reading more books. I am telling you now that no book will hit me like RoW did. I was totally going into this book expecting a great Sanderson avalanche ending and was surprised that it was not the case. That is not to say the ending wasn't great because it was everything Part 5 has to be one of the most pristine endings out of all Stormlight books. It just had so much power and raw emotion. Sanderson has laid the foundation of what is going to be one epic, harrowing conclusion to arc one of the Archive. BRAVO Sanderson, BRAVO!

In my opinion the Rhythm of War is a major disappointment. It suffers from a lack of direction and a lack of growth in the depiction of the characters and their roles in supporting the presumed plot. This books reads like a hodge-podge of contributions from a variety of authors. The writing styles change from one section to the next, as do the basic mechanics of crafting sentences, paragraphs and sub-stories. I had waited several years for the publication of this installment of the Stormlight Archive as I had really enjoyed the previous entries in this series. Well, at least the wait is over, even if this book marks the end of my following the story. Brandon Sanderson has, apparently become a corporation and this installment of the archives reads as if it were contributed and written by a variety of people - some of whom are, simply writ, just plain awful story tellers and worse writers. The story does not create a compelling interest, not even enough of one that creates a desire to finish reading this turgid prose. The authors have managed to create a dull, complex, psychological drama with little action to redeem the endless hours of questioning and self doubt. Every central figure in the books is presented as a "head case" with little of represent themselves other than their inadequacies. It is a slow read that has little to recommend it. My evaluation is that this is the worst book presented by this author and his publishing consortium in any of the series they have attempted. If you have read the other books in this series, do you self a favor and stop there. The Rhythm of War is not worth your time. Leave the series as unfinished, as you will remember it more kindly if you do.

Sad to say this book is very disappointing so far. I'm actually having a hard time getting thru the book. I loved books 1 and 2 in the series. Book 3 started the downhill slide but I still enjoyed it. This book is going into the absurd. Any super feat is possible. I like my fantasy somewhat grounded in being possible. Maybe I need to move away from fantasy books. Anyway this book is overpriced and only for die hard sanderson fans.

Well, what a doozy. I don't know if I've ever felt as emotional as this with the other books. I think the whole ending sequence is still gripping me so this may just be a jumble of words. That ending has terrified me. Anyways, back to the book, damn. Amazing. I'm not sure where I stack it with the other 3. I have to process but this book probably had the most to share about the Cosmere which was amazing but also slightly concerning for everyone not as caught up. I felt like Oathbringer had uneven pacing. This shared that though the middle felt particularly lagging. It didn't really feel like we were headed to any real conclusions till 90% of the book. I'm not asking for craziness earlier for earlier's sake. I just thought that the parts would have more weight to them. I don't want to spoil anything so I'll just say that I love the chracters. Maybe every single one in this story. There's some newer figures but they're all so interesting and whole. God, I want 6 more of these now.

As usual the writing is great, but it felt bloated with words at times. Doesnt help that most of the time you are at the POV of some one dealing with some heavy issues and other times you are reading about some really annoying characters. Its still good and sets up a lot, this didnt hit the spot (at all) but I hope the next one will On another note, the audio book had some issues with consistency of narration which could annoy some listeners.

I have really enjoyed Sanderson’s writing. However, this book was not great. The Kaladin issues were reused from the other books. So was Shallan’s. Navanni s arc was nice, but predictable. Venli’s... ugh I just wanted skip any chapter she was in. The new editor let you down. A third of this book should have been left out. Instead of doing a huge weird wandering arch. The archive should be several trilogies. If you are new to the series read the first two and stop. I guess the editors did.

I re-read the first 3 books the week before RoW hit the shelves, and I enjoyed every second of it. It’s taken me nearly 6 weeks to finish Rhythm of War. I did not enjoy this book in the slightest and I will not read it again. I applaud him for delving into mental illnesses, but he shoved the "awareness" down our throats which killed everything I previously enjoyed about characters. I don’t read a fantasy book to experience more of the realistic, everyday problems we each have...I want to escape. This book didn’t give me any sense of wonder, and I’m really disappointed. It gets 2 stars only out of respect for Sanderson, but he really whiffed on this one.

The series is wonderfully complex with brilliant thought to avoid trite story lines. There is very little action in the book. It is mostly a story of positioning and explaining. There is a mental health theme that really ran wild through the book. I kind get it, but at the same time I think it was overdone to the detriment of the book. I just grew tired of it because it always resulted in debilitating affects to characters instead of them being functionally flawed with self awareness issues. Over time, the characters (Kaladin) recover with drama, but only to a single crescendo in the storyline. Mental health themes are practical, but at the same time it just seemed overdone. I kept getting the sensation that I wanted to jump ahead and skip sections of the book. So, complex story telling that overdid it on the mental health issue. The pendulum swung away from action to mental health drama. Reading some cliffs notes on the story line would serve you well so that you could skip most of the book. I have reread the other books in this series. I am not sure I could bring myself to read this one again.

What a slog. Ive never read a Sanderson book that was so hard to get through, normally they fly, theyre fun and interesting. This book, Every character is a 14 year old girl in the age of 2020 where everything is mental illness, and everybody needs to feel sorry for me and what has happened to me. And Kaladin... you butchered our boy. Butchered him. Ill leave it to anybody that wants to read it but MY GOD is his character awful throughout most of the book. Shallans character gets worse and worse by the book as well. This series went from being something I looked forward to, to something Im dreading the end of, with the increasingly 'progressive' notes smashed into the writing.

Look, the ending is amazing. You know that. Navani's ending in particular is probably the most satisfying conclusion to a story arc in the series, or at least up there with the best. Kaladin comes in a close second, his payoff being marred by mixed messaging and having some of its thunder (no pun intended) taken away by one of the interlude chapters spoiling what would happen to him. Some of the other characters get good endings too, but this is where I have to point out my big problem with this book. Just like the Wheel of Time started doing around book 5, this series is beginning to more aggressively focus on characters who don't clearly tie in with the main plot. There are a few occasions where Sanderson shoehorns full storylines into a single chapter without any previous indication that said story matters (Dabbid deserves better dangit). You might argue that it's always been this way; book 1 started off with nothing but POV shifts for about five chapters straight. If you are the type of reader who likes that, enjoy. I for one stopped reading WoT because of gimmicks like this; there are only so many characters you can feel connected to when it only takes three to progress the main plot (in this case, Navani, Kaladin, and Venli), and all the others are largely about how the character thinks other cultures are “strange.” Side note, I wish these characters would stop thinking that. Yes, other people are strange to you. We get it. This is Wheel of Time skirt gate all over again. I'm also surprised that the man who teaches promises, progress, and payoffs manages to fumble the progress section of his book. Without spoiling anything, but also in an effort to save readers from the progress slog, this book opens with some spectacular scenes that promise the Knights Radiant will finally have big roles to play. Not so. We instead follow Venli, a side character of a side character in two of the previous books, on her quest to setup something interesting in the next book. Ironically, the most interesting parts of her story are the side characters she meets, namely a disenfranchised Fused who tows the line between enemy and friend until the very last minute. Know what to expect: Venli will be the subject of most of this book’s flashbacks, and her arc will amount to one literal paragraph of a touching scene. She is emblematic of this book’s shortcomings. I wish I could give this book higher praise. Oathbringer was something special, and I do think that the big moments in this title hit harder than the big moments in that. Spoilers ahead as I name-drop.a few of my favorite scenes: The human caterpillar attack during the invasion: 5 stars. Kaladin starting group therapy: 5 stars. Maya and Adolin fighting together: 5 stars. Maya's courtroom scene. Christ, I cried like a child: 6 stars, #MayaMVP. But big moments and payoffs don't make an interesting book. This thing was 1200+ pages long, and it did not feel earned.

A fan of the series, but not this volume. The perpetual angst described for all of the characters seems taken from Psychology Today, and is repetitive. EG. A few hundred pages of Kaladin vs Lirin - meh - left me indifferent to how or if it was resolved. Not a fun read.

This book was a grind to get through, which is something I've never thought of a Sanderson book. It reminded me of my feelings around books 7-9 in the Wheel of Time when RJ slowed the main plot line down to a crawl and you'd finish a book wondering what important actually happened. Some spoilers ahead: I will never re-read this book, but if I did I would go through and rip out all the Venli / Eshonai flashback chapters. They slowed the book down way too much. Almost every time I hit a chapter that started '8 years ago', I'd let out an audible groan and put the book down. Those weren't the only ones I'd take out either. Just way too much time spent describing peoples mental states and feelings. The main plotline is still enjoyable and it gave me some serious feels when Kaladin swore the 4th ideal but it was just too long and onerous to get there. And once it's over you wonder what actually happened. Did the main plot of this series really move forward much? As of now I have no interest in continuing this series. I read sword and sorcery fantasy because I like page turners. This was not that.

Is it even possible to give these books less than five stars? Is it even allowed? Every time we are blessed with a new book in the Stormlight Archive, it becomes one of the best books I've ever read. Plain and simple. They're just that fun. They reach those heights, that level of epic. A forewarning, this review will be unfettered praise. I somehow seem to forget just how much I love this series between installments. It's only natural I suppose, to need to immerse yourself in something again to remember just how much it grips you, but still, I seem to forget. It's just such a good story. Every little piece of it. The more we learn the more fun it is, and it is already a massive, interwoven, deliciously complex story. I can't get enough. And so when a new installment appears, I am consumed. Not just in the story itself, but the universe of which it is part. The story, the Coppermind entries, the WoB, all of it. Consumed. Rhythm of War starts extremely strong. The one year time-jump makes catching up to the new norm a very fun experience. Our favorite characters are challenged in new and distinct ways: by forcing them to re-examine what it means to uphold their Oaths, by requiring them to face truths at the risk of losing the love around them, by pushing them to shed doubt in the face of danger, by challenging them to seek freedom when it would be so much easier to give up. In a series known for upping the ante with each new book, this installments still feels fresh; like an important piece of the puzzle, and a natural extension of the story. One gets the sense that Brandon knows exactly what he's doing... And so I was enthralled. Having just finished it, I still am. There's nothing like the last stretch of a Sanderson book. He may be the only author who leaves you with more questions than you had when you began, but I thank him for it. He takes you up to the highest highs, and let's you ponder the future, marinating in the experience. His books are just so cool. And that sounds trite, but it's really not. No other books make me sit back and think "Damn, that is so cool" as often as Sanderson's. It's just a fact. And no they aren't literary masterworks or Pulitzer Prize winners, but the complaints that I used to see--hell, the complaints that I used to have--about his books are hard to apply these days. His skills have grown in noticeable and appreciated ways as things like character development and emotionally charged scenes become a major strong point in his work. I go on and on about Brandon's worldbuilding, everyone does. But there's a damn good reason for that. Because as much as he is growing in other areas, worldbuilding and plotting remain his major strengths. He builds the kinds of worlds that are so interesting you stay up thinking about one little piece of them when you should be sleeping. Roshar--and the greater cosmere in general--is an incredible place to visit, and one that grows more enticing by the page. It is science-fiction flavored fantasy in the same way that something like Dune is fantasy flavored science-fiction. And for someone like me, that's a homerun. No review of this book could even come close to summarizing all my thoughts on it. Installments of the Stormlight Archive are massive, and each one is a lengthy experience. A lot runs through your head during a thousand pages; more than a thousand. Plus, to truly review this book I would need to delve into the most massive of massive spoilers. But I will say this... There is no doubt that the Stormlight Archive is Brandon's best series; he admits this himself. 'Magnum Opus' may be the term thrown around down the line. As such, this is the series where he's really starting to open things up, as far as the greater cosmere is concerned. It’s still on a small enough scale that you don’t have to have any idea what I’m talking about, but the connections are flowing. He is no longer being coy about the existence of other planets, and the ability to travel to and from said planets. It’s right there in the text, and it’s all starting to come out. So what that does is get readers who may have never read any of his books other than Stormlight really excited for the cool things they’ve yet to discover. And it also offers a hugely rewarding reading experience for those who have read the other cosmere books, as we piece things together and notice all the "hidden" gems. The balance Brandon has achieved in this is nothing short of remarkable. I won't pretend his books are for everyone. Sometimes people want something more, and what's more subjective than one's reading material? But if you're looking for a fun world to immerse yourself in, with a master storyteller at the helm, pick up a book by Brandon Sanderson. Maybe I'll see you on the other end of the rabbit hole.

I'm sure the author attempted to come up with something clever here, but the end result is just a confused mashup of inconsistencies and nonsense. It's no longer stretching credulity, it just exhausting what good will he generated in the past. Save your money for something worthwhile.

I'm halfway done with the book so far but had to go ahead and put my two cents in to try to warn my fellow readers. This is a book primarily composed of the depressing inner monologues of mentally ill people in a fantasy world, with a few other characters and action scenes thrown in. If, like me, you pushed through the third book to this one hoping it'll get better, don't bother, it hasn't. Either Sanderson or someone close to him has had struggles with mental illness, or him and his obviously too populated team are more interested in virtue signaling than writing an enjoyable story. The progression of the story is all over the place. There is not really any heroes or villains, just some characters that have decided to be good for now, and some characters that have decided to be bad for now. I suppose Kaladin and Shallan are intended to be two of the heroes but they're both worse than in the first two books in multiple ways that don't even make sense. Shallan is a literal psychotic, but we're supposed to believe she has the capacity to take care of herself and also be a significant help to the mission they're on? It appears that Venli is being developed to be some kind of hero now too, even though she was originally written as a villain who was one of the primary drivers of the destruction of her people, the world, and the bringing of Odium back to power. Now I'm supposed to care about her and hope she succeeds because she feels pretty bad about what she did and is kind of thinking about undermining the Voidbringers, maybe? I hate not finishing a series but I won't be buying the last of this one.

Gave up on this series. Way too long and drawn out. Too many characters to keep up with. Never seems to go anywhere. The Interludes are pointless. Loved the first two books but I am 70 years old and won’t live long enough to finish this series out.

I'm tempted to bump it up to five stars, but there are flaws. Overall, it's a great addition to the cosmere as a whole and really starts to set up future interactions and explain past interactions between the different worlds. This book is very science heavy. There's a lot of discovering new things and explaining them to the reader. As a Physics nerd, I always enjoy these bits in Sanderson's books and I think it's written particularly well here, but it could wear you down if that's not your thing. Having finished the book, it feels a little like he made a list of where he wanted certain characters to be at the end and then wrote that. As a consequence, some characters don't do much, while others get chapter after chapter with a few important moments where the character development comes together kinda quickly. As usual, after the climax of the book, there are quite a few chapters that feel like post credits scenes, quickly tying up all the plot threads and setting up for the next book. This has the effect of making the end of each chapter feel like the end of the book until the next chapter starts and the cycle repeats. This seems negative, I know, but you probably know what you're getting here. As always, there's lots happening, lots to learn, lots of satisfying moments that feel like the culmination of a half dozen other books, and lots of mind bending twists. It's a fantastic book and I recommend it, but it does feel flawed.

Stormlight contains the best and worst of what 1000+ page epics can accomplish. Unfortunately the series is really starting to stumble by revisiting themes we've explored inside and out in past books and often ventures towards massive info dumps with no prose. The series is also dialing back the grit and definitely YA now. The pacing in this book is not good, the payoffs are quickly becoming less and less impactful, and it's spends too much time with characters that are not as deep as the main cast. The sense of danger returns after characters became near immortal in Oathbringer but only at times. The Cosmere tie ins and real world commentary are also a bit obnoxious.

This books spends way, WAY too much time on two things that are simply not fun: endless backstory with a very minor payoff, and unrelenting mental health problems. I almost didn't finish it. I'm not sure I'll read the next one. There was way too much ink spent on history for characters we already know are dead, shown in numerous flashback chapters. The payoff for all that was that a few little dots got connected, but nothing that really changes anything about the plot. Those chapters were mostly tiresome, plodding, dull, and entirely forgettable. I have a friend who knows all sorts of stuff about the Cosmere and he explained how, no, it was actually interesting because this person was that, and that person was this other guy, and look, these two things are related, but honestly, screw all that. It was boring and took up way too much of the book. Aside from too many very boring chapters, the second problem was the mental health nonsense. Places throughout the book where we could have spent time being adventurous and awesome and doing cool things, we spent time whining about our mental issues and not being entertaining. Shallan is not a fun character. She is basically static, personality-wise, from her appearance two books ago. She's nuts, and she's so nuts that it messes with people around her. But instead of any sort of human reaction to someone who is unrelentingly crazy and generally unlikeable, everyone she encounters goes out of their way to pat her on the back and tell her she's great, and they support her. EVERYBODY. Not only is she an unpleasant, unlikeable, and tedious character, but I feel like how everyone treats her shows the book went through a giant Wokeness and Affirmation committee to turn it into propaganda. I honestly can't even like Adolin anymore because he's such a pathetic simp. I used to like him. I had hope for their romance. But no, this is embarrassing. Have some self respect, dude. Then there's Kaladin, who is an obnoxious, mopey loser that everyone also adores unflinchingly (except his dad, because who WOULD like a son who is one of the most achieved and respected people on the planet). This is the 4th book in which he has an arc that goes "I need to do a thing but I'm sad. Oh well I guess I'll do it while being sad. I did it, and now I'm sad." Seriously, F this guy. Am I supposed to sympathize with this? To say nothing of taking the main Adventure Guy in the book and giving him PTSD and having a whole arc about improving the treatment of patients in asylums. I was promised aerial sword combat awesomeness and there was precious little of that. In short, previous Sanderson books were adventurous and fresh. They had sympathetic characters in cool situations doing cool things. You could describe them as exciting, inventive, compelling. The word for this book is "Safe", as in a safe space for really touchy left-wing people. If you're not fully committed to the series, skip it for now and see how the 5th book goes, because if something doesn't change quite a bit, this whole series is ruined.

The story can be split into three groups. There is the Navani, Kaladin, and Venli plot which I'd call the main plot. There is the Adolin, and Shallan plot which would be the secondary plot. And then there is the Dalinar and Jasnah plot which reads more like a set-up for book 5. As for how interesting these plots are relative to each other, I ended up skipping the other two to read ahead a bit on the main plot. If you happen to dislike Kaladin, then you likely won't like this book so much, since even though this is the Venli book it reads more like a Kaladin and Navani book. If there is one weakness in this book it is probably how the previous books did a terrific job of making the focal character shine whereas Venli does not really stand out here. Worse, other singers/parsh are more interesting than her. In any case, it is likely a matter of taste so that is why I still rate this with five stars. As mentioned, Navani also features heavily in this book. As someone in the sciences, her headspace in her POV is, to me, a realistic portrayal of how someone very much immersed in a technical field would think. Some may complain that it feels like an info-dump, some may just complain about the 'science,' but it is actually pretty light reading under the circumstances and I love how a technical person is actually portrayed to think in technical terms. As to how the plot goes, most plot resolutions were as predicted if you've gone to any forums discussing the books. I'd hate to call it predictable as the execution really sells it. Journey before destination. It is the journey of how those plots are resolved rather than the end itself that connects me to the story. Let's just say that 2 or 3 scenes in this book made me cry. My biggest fear was that some of the plot lines would actually undermine the character for me if it went as predicted, but Sanderson managed to do it in a way that made sense and was in two instances it felt cathartic to read it. I must say that it adds to my respect of Sanderson that he is likely aware of the theories his readers have on how certain plot points would be resolved and he still went with it. There is surprising the audience and there is being true to the characters in the story and the book reaches a nice balance between these things. On hindsight, it seemed like he lulled readers into thinking everything would be predictable only to hit us with that surprising turn near the end. I can't wait for book 5. The way Rhythm of War has set things up for the upcoming showdown, to me, book 5 just looks to be one big explosion.

Disclosure, I own all the other books and re-read the others before reading this one. This one is drudgery. Not a joy to read. Still contains the infuriating flash back chapters. Disregards the many of the best characters. Intentionally drags you down repeatedly while reading. After all that work... with so much content... to continuously make the story about whining personal failures. Sad. I will forever have this book in mind when I see the author's name in the future. He knew what He was doing.

Books 1 and 2 were outstanding, 3 passable and Rhythm of War is stunningly tedious. The author has "Game of Thrones" syndrome where he has run out of story and drones on delving deeper into the characters in ways that no one cares about. We're done with this series.

Rhythm of War starts off with a bang, which escalates into a tense situation that I found incredibly satisfying to watch unfold. RoW has a focused plot for such a large book. This is something Sanderson has always excelled at, though Oathbringer probably was the least focused in the series. Stormlight Archives manages to create an enjoyable singular experience for each book, while maintaining cohesion between entries, which is not the case for epics like The Wheel of Time or A Song of Ice and Fire, which often just end at a big event when the author runs out of pages. Thoughts on characters: (Sorry if I butcher the spelling of all these names. I listened to the audio.) - Getting to focus on Navani was a very welcome addition to the story. I found her to be a sympathetic character with a satisfying level of depths. Fabrial science is fascinating. - Shallan got a lot of focus at the start then disappeared for a bit. Her plotline was the most intriguing to me, and really kept me going through the story. She's become such a complex character and to me feels almost like a real person. One tiny downside to her story is that Pattern takes a backseat in this book because Shallan spends a lot of time inside her head(s). I love Pattern. He's so unintentionally funny, but he tries. - Kaladin is awesome as per usual. After his 'failure' at the end of book 3, he has to deal with growing feelings of depression and apathy. We get more interactions between him and his dad, which was an expert mix of catharsis and repulsion. He's kind of the total antithesis of Alethi culture, and Kaladin feels like a heathy mix of all the philosophies. I won't go into more detail so as to avoid spoilers, but in general, this book expands on everything we already know in the series, including the Listeners, stormlight, the radients, and Roshar. In terms of where it falls in the series, here's my rating for favorites: 1) Words of Radiance (My favorite book ever) 2) Rythm of War (great direction with existing characters) 3) The Way of Kings (that was a hard choice placing it here) 4) Oathbringer (it was good, but lacked focus.)

Loved,loved,loved the first two storm light books. Really liked the 3rd one, but ROW is just bad. Almost all characters are now self pitying victims and Sanderson bashes us with this depressing crap throughout ROW. Kaladin has never embraced being a “victim” until this depressing piece of drivel. It is not in his DNA to think that way!!!!! You ruined one of my all time favorite MC so screw you Brandon Sanderson. No more money for you. Now go cry about it.

I was so disappointed with this book! He is my favorite author and this is one of my all time favorite series. It’s the first book by Sanderson that I have ever skimmed, and skipped because Shallan and Kaladin really got on my nerves. By the end of the book I didn’t like either of them. Not sure why he chose to write them like he did but it didn’t work for me. I also read Dawnshard and it was great. I really hope the next book is better.

What happened to this series? I am at 250 pages and can barely touch this horrible book. Every book I touch makes reading this series less and less appealing to me. First one was fantastic and now this one, I am speechless how bad it is. I am so ready to quit on this book and the series. But then, I invested a long time to read over 3K of pages. You can probably cut 50 percent of this book. Who is editing this psycho gibberish? I am going to read this as a change of pace book, a chapter here and there while I read something more exciting than this depression inducing book. I would give it zero stars if I could.

Rhythm of War had some excellent moments in its thousand-plus pages, and the writing itself was wonderful, but just as I would be getting into the spirit of what was happening with a character, the author would jump to another character, another place, or (with uninteresting flashbacks) even another time. It was so disjointed and frustrating, especially because it might be fifty pages before the author returned to a character. It became all too easy to put the book down and do something else. It just didn’t captivate. If I could offer any suggestion to the author it would be to follow the characters for longer periods so the reader can establish and maintain rapport, especially when the blips of storyline are depressing and left hanging uncomfortably in the reader’ mind for long stretches. If that can’t be done, then there are too many storylines going on at once, and some of them should be another book. For example, I would have loved to read an additional, more coherent book about the Parshendi and their main characters such as Venli, so I got to know them and understand them. Instead, all of that information is fragmented and the feeling of knowing Venli or her sister or important others is greatly reduced. An opportunity missed. How can the reader enter into a character’s heart, or lack thereof, with only a few short pages at a time before being distracted by a long string of other events and characters. The plotline with Jasnah was wonderful, but it was all broken up. Part of the power of The Way of Kings was that it followed three characters devotedly and deeply. But in TROW we have many more “main” characters on top of those three. At this point the plot is so complex and the cosmere gods and powers and characters and kingdoms so numerous that I began having real trouble in keeping things straight. I got bogged down, frankly, with what power was what and who someone was, even though I had re-read the entire third book just prior to reading this. Jumping around from character to character made it so much harder to remember details or feel emotionally involved. A reader likes to settle in with the flow and be carried away (like in The way of Kings), but this was a jarring ride, and not fun.In addition, compared to the first three books, this book was actually kind of a downer. I didn’t like what happened with Kaladin, Shallon, or Dalinar. I didn’t like what happened with Wit, Lirin, Vinli, Szeth and others. It felt rushed and shallow and rambling and dismal. The mostly positive conclusions of individual stories just didn’t make up for the tedious angst of the previous hundreds of pages. TROW would have been better as a shorter, cleaner book without all the depressing and confusing filler that didn’t really advance the overall plot or positively develop characters we want to care about. And even more disappointing, all three original main characters are less likable now that I have read this latest book. Way too much time was given to deep-seated mental health problems that did not get resolved satisfactorily or realistically. A little of that goes a long way. This is a fantasy that I looked forward to reading through the many awful months of COVID-19 as an adventurous escape from real world health issues. I had enjoyed and liked the main characters so very much after the first three books, but my initial enthusiasm for the series is diminishing. What a shame. The Way of Kings and its first sequel were two of the most inspiring, most magical and best fantasies I had ever read. Please, Mr. Sanderson, lighten up a bit. Give us the space to know the characters more fully by having fewer story lines per book.

I know a lot of other reviews focus on how little this book moves, but just because the timeline itself is stagnant doesn’t mean the book doesn’t move. Brandon Sanderson is amazing at moving the characters within themselves. It is evident how much research he puts into how the characters would FEEL as opposed to simply how they ACT. The juxtaposition between feeling and action truly gives his characters a depth that few authors can recreate. The characters in this story developed in leaps and bounds internally and have grown enough to take their places in the “final” battle. I can’t wait for Book 5.

This I think, is probably the weakest of the Stormlight books to date. It’s still magnificent, and I especially loved finally getting some concrete answers concerning the Cosmere and the true nature of Roshar. Furthermore, the twists and turns in the final act were breathtakingly executed and set up an incredible confrontation to come. All that being said, the front half of this book does suffer from one of Brandon’s long time issues: his pacing problem. While not as bad as Well of Ascension, several plot lines in this book felt unnecessary at the end and revealed their primary purposes as keeping other protagonists out of the way.

But this was just too long and too much. Too much dialogue about philosophy and moral arguments. Too much specific detail and lengthy world building. Too much character dilemma and personal reflection. If you're really into that then this book is genius. If you want a good story that moves and characters you can root for as they fight for good, then this isn't for you. Too slow and ultimately a disappointment after loving the other books in the series.

I really enjoyed this book. This book feels like a middle book, but I need to clarify a few things. Middle books can either build the world and tension to a story so that the anticipation for the last book is palpable or a middle book can feel like a slog that you have to tread through to get to what you want. This book is the first of the two. I thought the character development and progression was amazing. You have three main groups that you follow throughout. One group deals with issues in Shadesmar, one group deals with issues at Urithiru, and the final group deals with the war front. Oathbringer suffered at its Shadesmar section. This book improves that this go around. The sequence in Shadesmar is engaging and moves at a better pace. Standout characters for me were Raboniel, Kaladin, and Navani. The arc with Navani and Raboniel had me burning through the pages of this behemoth of a book. This book I would say is definitely Cosmere heavy. There are a lot of nods and Easter eggs. They range from rewarding fans of Sanderson’s work to pretty significant tie ins. You should really be reading more than just the Stormlight archive to get everything by this point. Sanderson’s writing has only improved with time. You are going to be in for the ride or a lifetime. You go through the full spectrum of human emotion in this book. It has everything you want in a great fantasy epic. It did not disappoint. The only negative for me is that I didn’t connect with some of the characters as much as previous entries. Particularly this books flashback character/s. Shallan isn’t one of my favorites, but I came to understand and appreciate her a lot more from seeing her flashback sequence in Words of Radiance. That is what a good flashback sequence can do. It’s makes you understand or appreciate characters who weren’t your favorite to begin with. This book I didn’t feel that for Venli and Eshonai.

Rythm of War had very little rythm for me. It took me almost three months to read it because I kept putting it down to do something more interesting like washing clothes! Three forths of the book was slow and boring. There were a lot of side stories and back stories and characters filling pages doing "busy" work which did nothing for the story but add words and fill pages and which I did not find interesting. Kaladen's depressingly sad story was a short story mixed in with the short stories of Dalinar, Adolin, Shallan, Jasnah, Venli, and Navani along with several other characters getting a little page time spotlights. I did a lot of skimming because there was a lot of that was simply boring, ie., Navani's "scholarly work". It was maybe the last quarter of the book that picked up and I enjoyed reading.

Everything about this book is just tedious. After I read book three, I was pretty much done with Brandon, but I desperately hoped he would have gotten back on the rails, so I risked buying book 4.. It was a mistake. Shallan has become nothing but a study in mental illness, Adolin is a background character at most (until the chapter that finally made me stop reading, where he started explaining the battle-analogous importance to fashion choices.............), Navani is dull as heck, Kaladin is (again) whiny and self-loathing...... It's just horrid. You could skip whole chapters and really miss nothing.

I'm only halfway through this book, but I find myself disappointed. It seems as though the more successful these writers are, the less tight the editing becomes. the first two books are masterful in presenting a world and allowing a reader to become completely immersed. I was not immersed in this book. Sanderson's voice intrudes too much with far too much exposition and explanation that feels like mansplaining. A book should feel complete within itself and there shouldn't be a need to have to go to a website or side stories to understand what's actually happening for the plot. There should be a main character or two that captures the reader's interest and heart. I thought we had that with Dalinar, Kaladin, and shallan. Particularly between Kaladin and Syl. The mental health issues are important and i'm glad the issues are highlighted in the book. but they're handled in a very superficial manner with focus on symptoms and never progression to how they change the characters and how their arcs move forward. instead we are treated to a massive book with a focus on stagnation. I really really hope the ending of this book is worth it. i've dedicated a lot of time i don't really have to reading it and hope that i will not be as disappointed with this book as i was with Brent Week's last book. For superbly written, authentic and well rounded characters and tightly edited books, people should read Carol Berg/Cate Glass instead.

First of all, Sanderson is my favorite author. I support him and trust him to pull this story back together and thrill me again. That being said, this book was depressing, disappointing, and far too long for what it offered. On looking through reviews I see so many saying exactly what I thought: way too much internalizing, mental illness, mental dialogues, useless backstories on dead characters (whyyyy?), and miles and miles of words, but very little progress in the characters or the story. I was truly disappointed and truly hope Sanderson reads the bad reviews, he needs to. I think he went off in a rabbit hole of researching mental illness and decided no one could heal from it, and pretty much ruined all of the favorite characters. Please get it together, I loved the first 3 books!!

This book, like his previous Stormlight Archive books, is such a literary roller coaster. Like a roller coaster strains as it rises slowly, the protagonists struggle to progress. And just like a roller coaster quickly twists and turns and loops, the story does the same to your emotions. The prognosis is that book 5 will be a tumultuous end of an era on Roshar before making a major time skip to the second half of the series. If that is the case, then book 4 of The Stormlight Archive is the ominous setup to the potentially world rending events set in place. While there is a big victory at the end like in his previous books, you can feel a significant sense of foreboding at the events to come. Just like how the Battle of Helms deep was a victory in Lord of the Rings, the fate of the world was still far from peace. A big appreciation to the author for always striving to tell people that it’s ok to be broken and that we are worth fixing. Also that human connection is a big part in healing. I applaud his consulting with others on how to better represent certain mental health conditions. His radiants are like a form of spiritual kintsugi, broken, but put back together in a way that shows it was broken while progressing to something greater.

Absolutely love this book. I will say though, I got a lot more out of it since I read pretty much every book in the cosmere. If you're someone who hasn't read every book, well at the very least read warbreaker before reading this. And I also suggest reading the mistborn book 1-6 and secret history as well before reading this. And Elantris. But, if you don't have the time, at least read warbreaker. Brandon really starts tiring stuff in from the cosmere here. It's not necessary to read the cosmere books to enjoy stormlight archive, but if you do, theres more absolutely mind blowing moments for you to enjoy.

This book will have you telling everyone on social media about how everyone needs to read it. It's the kind of book that you gets book haters reading. Its the book that makes you do nothing else but read. You will ignore your children, your husband, your house will be messy, you will call into work to read it. It will make you laugh and cry. Then when you are done reading it, you will turn around and start it all over on audible and listen to it. Eventually, your brothers, sisters, in-laws, and older children will be having hour long conversations discussing how brilliant it is and pondering how it will end. You will join forums and fan pages, you will buy merchandise and start praising Brandon Sanderson's creativity. Thank you Brandon for this journey! Looking forward to it's destination!

Love the concepts, love the characters and their potential, hate the writing. Plot twists and developments in the story tend to drag out 10X as long as they need to. Things that should be resolved in a chapter get stretched for the entirety of the book and then at the end there is a frantic race to tie up loose ends and set things up for the next book and the next arch in the series. The main characters who all have super powers are all crippled by mental illness and you get to read about them being weak because of it for chapter after chapter after chapter then suddenly overcoming it in a moment of inspiration to become champions! It's just plain bad writing, which is sad because I liked the series and really liked the characters. Anyway, doubt I'll be reading the next book but we shall see

I gave it 3 stars because it seems to be suffering from GRRM syndrome. There are too many characters, too many POV chapters, and not enough progression. Kal has makes zero progress throughout the book, instead wallowing in abject misery, helplessness, and depression. This kind of self flagulation reminds me of Jon Snow and Tyrion suffering from their stations in life. Near the end, Progress for Kal comes at the end as a deus ex machina moment of Dalinor time magicking coupled with a time multiplying vision. Similar unlikely unlikely and poorly explained saves comparable to ASoIaF are Stannis' save of the Night's Watch and the convenient dragon glass dagger found north of the Wall. In short, it felt like 400 pages of slog that was designed to setup the next novel, but with a few drops of honey to keep the bitter down.

Spoilers ahead, but in a book where nothing happens, is it even a spoiler? Also, what are these other reviewers smoking?? This was an awful book. Just...bad. Kaladin is a sad, self-loathing waste who does pretty much nothing but sit around being a sad, self-loathing waste. Every now and then he will move from one room in the tower to another. He eventually becomes slightly less sad. His father is somehow worse, spending all of his time being an angry jerk who claims to have ideals but actually exhibits none. Shallan and Adolin are off on a short quest that is boring and adds almost nothing to the plot. Shallan is a sad, self-loathing waste (are we seeing a pattern ((no pun)) here?). She spends the entire novel being sad in one place, then moving to another place to be sad. Then talking about doing something but then not doing that something, or anything at all. Her character is best described as "meh...whatevs". Her boyfriend Adolin does even less, says even less, thinks even less and in the end, matters not at all. He moves the plot along 0.0003%, which is about .037% less than Shallan. They make a swell couple. Dalinar? Yawn. He also does nothing, says less and doesn't move the plot along (this is another theme). Jasnah, who could have been the most interesting character in the novel, doesn't even exist. We get a small taste of her in battle, then she also becomes sad and uncertain and irrelevant and then just disappears altogether. I think Sanderson forgot about her. Dalinar and Jasnah could be taken completely out of this book and you wouldn't know they were gone. Same with Szeth and Renarin. Lift is non-existant. Wit pops up now and then to say something that doesn't matter. Navani is the single most important character in the book, for reasons no one will ever understand. Her chapters are about as exciting as 10th grade chemistry class, where she talks and studies and experiments and spends page after page describing the "science" of the magic - how it's created and held and used. Talking, studying, talking, experimenting, talking, more talking. Tear. My. Eyeballs. Out. As others have stated, you could read a 2 page synopsis of the first 90% of the book and skip to the end for the wrap up. This entire book could/should have been a 4 chapter novella. Instead, Sanderson tried to turn a fantasy novel into The Dubliners. I could have skipped this novel and just picked up on the next, and not been confused AT ALL. What did I miss? "Well, you missed a bunch of fantasy characters being very sad and then eventually realizing they could be less sad - the end". OK. Will the next novel be this bad? If so, I'm out.

Another huge, impressive, fast-moving book in what is one of the best fantasy series of the last decade, that would be a 5-star review with a better focus on the edit and a few limitations on intentionally confusing the reader. I give it a big recommendation for fans of high fantasy, with the hopes that some of these issues will be cleared up (though, to be honest, I'm going to read the rest of the series even if those persist). The fourth book in the Stormlight Archive series sees all of the main protagonists going through personal crises. Dalinar, Radiant Bondsmith and king of Urithiru, the mystical city of Radiants, is struggling both to understand his powers and to maintain the alliance of nations against the threat of the Fused, the enemy that arose from the strange race of former slaves now infused with powers from the dark god Odium, and also trying to outthink the traitor-king Taravangian. Navani, Dalinar's scholar wife and former sister-in-law, works tirelessly to study fabrials, the gems capturing magic spren that allow feats of wonder like flight (not to mention the full functions of the city itself), but despite making great advances, she still views herself as fraudulent, a scholar in name only. Kaladin Stormblessed, Radiant Windrunner and Captain of Dalinar's armed forces, has a mighty bout of battle-shock, freezing against an enemy in the worst of times, causing him to suffer one of his dark times of self-doubt and nihilism. Shallan, Radiant Lightweaver and wife of Dalinar's son Adolin, is beginning to lose herself to the two other "faces" she wears under her illusions, giving way to a nefarious third alternate persona that may hide a secret from her past, and leading her into taking missions for a mysterious secret society that promises her the answers she seeks. Adolin struggles to find his purpose, when it seems all those around him are bursting with special powers and divine responsibilities while he spends his days studying the latest fashions and the now-obsolete art of dueling. When the Fused manage to invade and occupy Urithiru while Dalinar is away in the west prosecuting the war, thereby cutting off the alliance from use of the teleporting powers of the Oathgates, all of these main actors, and their hundreds of supporting characters, are left to resist as well as they can during their most difficult personal times. As always in this series, and indeed with every other book by Sanderson I've read, there's a metric ton of action equal to the multifarious interlacing storylines. If you like war stories, there's lots of fighting; if magic is your thing, that's there on virtually every page in multiple forms; if political intrigue is up your alley, this story presents so many factions and internecine plots that you may need a flowchart. The plot moves quickly, and the book is hard to put down, with character arcs that are mostly satisfying for what is essentially one of the middle books of this incredibly lengthy planned series. Sanderson obviously has planned the series in such detail that he's got thousands of plot points to dole out over the course of ten 1200+ page books, even if his plan is still inchoate and undiscernible to the reader at this point in the story. It does seem that there's an almost intentional confusion of magic systems and histories on the part of the author, so that the entire backstory leading up to the current page is never solidly formed in the reader's mind, as every few hundred pages a new revelation throws everything the reader previously understood on its head. It also seems that the author is trying to form a Grand Unified Theory of Nerdiness by attempting to combine high fantasy, urban fantasy, sci-fi, steampunk, and political thrillers into a single tale, to the point where at times the efforts seem slightly disjointed. A corollary to this is that a series of this size and scope that might see a handful of years between new books NEEDS to have an appendix with a Dramatis Personae and a glossary; while there's a short description of the various magic systems at the end of this book, there's nothing to remind the reader who all the hundreds of characters are and what their positions/powers might be. And I've said it before: the fact that Lift, one of the absolute best characters in the entire series, doesn't have a larger, central role in the main narrative is unforgivable, and to wait 550+ pages in this book to reintroduce her is a mortal sin -- if she's good enough for a stand-alone novella, she's good enough for a few dedicated chapters in a book more than a thousand pages long. As for mechanics, I was less than pleased. The book is rife with split infinitives, the use of "the times where" (vs "the times when"), spelling mistakes (like "rifled through" instead of "riffled through"), subject/pronoun disagreement, employment of em dashes when literally any other punctuation mark would be more appropriate; the use of "reveal" as a noun; and other grammarian pet peeves that disturb my zen. I understand that in this permissive era of writing, many of these are guidelines rather than rules, but the use of colloquial internet-English in a high fantasy takes the reader out of the "high" part of the fantasy in a way that is completely avoidable by following a few grammar, punctuation, and syntax rules. On top of this, the unbelievably impressive illustrations in this book are nearly ruined by accompanying text that is so difficult to read because of font and font size (EVEN IN HARDBACK SIZE) that they may as well be written in alien script. Listen, I love this series and most other things by Sanderson I've read, but I can love a thing and want it to be better. So, it's a 5-star story (with a HUGE RECOMMENDATION for fans of high fantasy), with some troubling plot issues and some seriously problematic editorial issues. I'm investing a boatload of time in reading these massive tomes of his, and I hope he respects that time investment enough to cure some of these foibles. Overall, though, big ups to this series.

I've heard a lot about how the struggles of these times in this year 2020 has been on people. Sanderson has done an excellent job creating and telling the stories of these very relatable characters, each with their difficulties. By the end of the book I was wondering how he was going to wrap things up -- boy oh boy did things get drawn to a satisfying conclusion! I will read this book again. . . and again. . . and probably again -- along with the rest of the series' books.

This book is an amazing piece of literature. Brandon Sanderson will be one of the greatest authors of our day. I have a problem with the delivery of this physical item and the condition of the product because of the packaging methods used. This is a very large hard cover book, 1235 pages. The way it was packaged in the Amazon fulfilment center allowed the binding to be stressed in multiple directions and damaged the book to start to degrade before it even got to my apartment. I have ordered from Brandon Sandersons personal website and store before and received better quality items with little delay... I will use it for ever more and not Amazon for my Sanderson novels. Plus Brandon signs books that come from his store.

My favorite author, in modern times, hands down, is Mr. Sanderson! I first came across Mr. Sanderson when I fell in love with the 'Wheel of Time' (WoT) series, but was crushed upon hearing of Robert Jordans death. I was both; saddened for him personally, as well as, his lovely wife, and for his masterful series being left unfinished. Mrs. Jordan did the world's heart a solid in seeing the WoT series completed, and she fought through this terrible ordeal of greif, like a brave Aes Sedai from the WoT series. In hand picking an author to complete WoT, the greatest thing to happen to the fantasy/science fiction genre, is when she chose Mr. Sanderson. Thus, from out of the cold, unforgiving void of emptiness, came the shining, valiant Radiant-knight, Mr. Sanderson himself, to give us hope and a new author to discover-well, new to me at least. Since completing the WoT series, I was all in for Brandon. I have read everything, and I mean everything, he has put out for the public, and let me tell you, you will find no better writer than Brandon. He weaves so many intriguing, intricate sub plots in all his books. His magic system is so very unique, and quite believable by fantasy novel standards. His character building-coupled with his uncanny ability to place the reader in his minutely detailed world-is simply astounding. Topping it all off with random easter eggs planted in all the series.. They say, and I find it to be true myself, that you really can not just put down a Sanderson book, the time will fly when you are immersed in Brandon's works. I really think Tolkien would be immensely proud of and impressed with him, and I know that the late, great Mr. Jordan would be! Sorry for the long-winded review, but I really want to convey to good authors and publishers of grand works, the respect and appreciation that they deserve. A lot of hard work, creativity, and soul is poured into these books, and that is something that shouldn't be taken lightly. The Stormlight Archives are so freaking amazing, please do yourself a favor and read these books, you most certainly will not regret it. Promise! I didn't want to put too much of the story or plots of the Stormlight series in this review, so as not to spoil the books for would-be purchasers. Trust me though, they are worth every penny-really im surprised they aren't priced higher-I wont complain though.

When you read your most anticipated book of the year and it meets or surpasses your every expectation where do you even begin with your review? Well, I guess we will start at the beginning and in the prologue. The story opens with Navani’s PoV to let us see her in a whole new light. On the night Gavalar was killed she learned a few interesting things and we see how broken their marriage really was. The goals we thought he had for the shattered plains ***"I have discovered the entrance to the realm of gods and legends, and once I join them, my kingdom will never end. I will never end.”*** With Sanderson I have learned that there is always another secret and he is a master at doling them out. RoW was no exception to that so many implications for both Roshar and the Cosmere both. At the revelation of who the true head of the Ghost Bloods really is I almost dropped the book in shock. There are so many building and emotional scenes throughout this book. So many tender and caring moments, so many infuriating ones. After this book I understand the Fused a little better and the goals of some of their people. Like all enemies there are those that are not all bad they are just people caught up in the middle of a war trying to stay alive. ***“Extinction is the natural escalation of this war,” Leshwi whispered. “If you forget why you are fighting, then victory itself becomes the goal.”*** Kaladin, oh Kaladin. I love the bridgeman and everything he has done in the series but his story while done well is a little bit of a struggle for me. He has battleshock really bad and has pushed through so much of it but it has become too much and Dalinar, seeing how much he is struggling needed to take him out of the main fight. Kaladin is lost through most of this story trying to find a new purpose and searching for a way to both heal himself and still keep his oaths so he doesn’t hurt Syl. But in true Sanderson fashion you know there will be the big moments for him still in this and the Bridgeboy is going to find a was through it somehow. Chapters 105 – 110 were the most emotional for me in this entire series. I absolutely loved the moment that Kal got in them. It was exactly what he needed and so well done I sobbed through most of it. Shallan also had an extraordinary story. She is dealing with some of her own issues including that currently she is alternating between three people Shallan, Radiant and Veil. Adolin is probably the best husband ever as he takes her exactly as she is split personalities and all. They do have a fun and interesting marriage as he interacts with all of her personalities differently. Her story was really one of the more interesting in the book as she tries to overcome things perceived as weaknesses and being pulled in so many directions. ***“Adolin is right,” Veil said. “He’s always been right about you. Tell me. Who is the strongest of mind? The woman whose emotions are always on her side? Or the woman whose own thoughts betray her? You have fought this fight every day of your life, Shallan. And you are not weak.”*** Adolin has grown on me so much from the semi spoiled child I thought he was way back in Way of Kings. He is truly a man now and I love how great a friend he is. He is really a great person and I get so excited when I think of him and Maya and how they together might change everything. ***“Adolin?” Kaladin said as he changed. “Your first thought was to get Adolin?” “I needed someone you couldn’t intimidate,” she replied. “That list at best includes three people. And the queen was likely to transform you into a crystal goblet or something.”*** He really is there for his wife, his father, his friends and his country. If there is anyone that can help bring a deadeye back, I think it will be him. I do love that he is rebelling a little against Dalinar as he becomes his own man. Navani is really at the forefront for much of this book. She has always been brilliant but due to some obligations and a husband that showed zero support she had been beaten down throughout the years. Her storyline ended up being one of the most exciting in the Tower as she both fought and worked with the enemy. It will make sense as it is totally complicated. She really has come into her own and I thought she did a great job with the information she had. Navani is a fighter and she fought a hard battle in this. Dalinar, well he had his hands full too with the war and trying to learn how to be a bondsmith and what that actually meant. It is time for him to step back from the actual war into more of a leadership role. It is amazing his transformations. He is the one who will have to deal with Odium and the movement on that front totally has me concerned about him going into the last book in this set of 5. It should be pretty epic since we are now down to the wire. Dalinar is a really great leader and I wonder if he will be able to make a new Oathpact, hopefully a better one that doesn’t leave people stuck on Braize being totured. All of our characters go though so many things in this and I was stuck to my seat needing to know all the things in this book. There are so many great moments: -- People I loved (too many to name) -- People I loved hating (Taravangian and Moash you know what you’ve done) --Relationships I am rooting for (Adolin/Maya, Adolin/Gallant, Adolin/Shallan, Kal/Syl, Jasnah/Witt :P) -- Characters I sobbed to say goodbye to (sheds a lonely tear) -- Characters I cheered for as they had their big moments (Navani, Adolin, Shallan, Kaladin, Dalinar, Rlain etc etc etc) -- Cosmere information that will have me pondering for awhile after this -- SO MUCH MORE… It was a fantastic ride and Mr. Sanderson has definitely outdone himself again. There is so much to worry about going into the next book capturing the final 10 days. I’m so nervous for all these characters that have become completely real to me. It will be a journey I look forward to.

I did not dislike the book. It is the worst Sanderson has ever produced. It still isn't bad. But imagine you waited two years to eat a steak from your favorite chef, and then when it was served it was clear that particular day he had an off day. It's still steak? And the sides and the wine were still fine? But you wanted that perfect steak from your previous trips. And you can tell where things went wrong. You can see the indecision and the things that were going to get taken care of later and he didn't get back to them. Later...I'll enjoy this book more during re-reads. Because I'll know which portions I can skip. There's probably, I don't know, fifty thousand words that are just repeating the same scenes over and over. I labored through all of it just in case there was some critical info I would need to understand the overall story, but there wasn't. This is the book where Frodo, Sam, and Gollum, spend half the book in the foggy swamp and not alot happens. Stormlight: Mental Illness edition. It's not a bad book! It's just Sanderson usually delivers a much better book.

I'm done with this series. The Way of Kings and Words of Radiance were outstanding -- some of my favorite fantasy books. Oathbringer was good, but started a downward plunge towards the un-readable Rhythm of War. Wedged in between are the 2 "suggested" tangent books that are 95% character exploration and 5% required info. If you're into series, those are required reading. As for Rhythm of War, I just don't care any more. Not sure what triggered it, but I think it's the absence of Szeth the reformed assassin and full force commitment to Shelan. I cannot stand this character which can loosely be described as "a strong central character formed as a multiple personality set of bad stereotypes." Legion characters are just too complicated to write -- unrelatable, unbelievable, and simply ridiculous at best. It's clear Brandon jumped the shark with this one, and now he's stuck with Shelan. It has gotten to the point where one can't tell if he's pandering to the the public by focusing on misrepresented characters, "disrupt" the fantasy world by leaning solely on the trope "there are no bad guys", or if he has just simply shaken the editor's reigns. Whatever it is, it just feels long and drawn out -- kind of like when Robert Jordan wrote multiple books about the hemming and hawing of the teenagers in The Wheel of Time. I think people should start being a little more critical of Sanderson -- he's definitely more at risk of neediing to call GRRM to finish his own series than otherwise.

In Rhythm of War by Brandon Sanderson, the war continues between the human forces of the Stormfather and the Voidbringer forces of Odium. The Voidbringers have taken the kingdom of Alethkar, and the humans have retreated to the stronghold of Urithru. Dalinar Kholin leads humans and must decide where he should attack. Their strength is fading, and he must make the right decision or fail, leading to their destruction. Kaladin faces PTSD and must conquer great physical challenges to save them all. Will the forces of the Stormfather succeed or perish? Rhythm of War by Brandon Sanders is another outstanding book in The Stormlight Archive series. The book expands on the first three books and intensifies the conflict. The reader learns more about how Eshonai became the leader of the Parshendi and how Venli learned new forms which lead to the coming of the Voidbringers. Dalinar becomes a supreme war leader. Kaladin faces his biggest challenges yet. Navani faces an interesting dilemma concerning if you should help your captor if the help you provide could prove your downfall. Shallan deals with her multiple personalities and her relationship with Adolin. The flashback character for book 5 is for Szeth-son-son-Vallano, and that should prove interesting. Books one to five are a division of the series, and a significant event should occur at the end of the next book. This series continues to amaze me, and I look forward to reading the next book and the following group of five volumes in the coming years.

I love this series of all the Sanderson series the best (Skyward is probably my second favorite) and reread the first three books last year so I was ready for this when it came out. It has AMAZING epic moments in it that I love Sanderson for, but there is so much inner turmoil, mental anxiety, etc. that it really weighs the book down in a bad way. It's not just once in awhile, it's constant. I had to put it down for a bit, read some other stuff, and then gear up to finish it, which I never did with the first three book. Spoiler alert, there's a scene where Kaladin sits down in an "AA" type meeting with a cup of tea to talk out his feelings. I laughed at this because it seemed so out of place in this kind of book. I don't understand the long meandering chapters that are all about the character's mental health. It just takes up way too much space and I found myself skimming through a lot of the sections. It's not bad to have this in a book but it was the same thing over and over and it gets really tiring. This felt like a bridge book--good to read to get to the next book but not something to cherish like some of his other works. I'm sure I'll reread it someday as I wait another year (or two or three!) for the next installment. I give it 4 stars because I love Sanderson and he is a genius and he works soooooo hard on his writing so I know he put so much effort and heart into this work but it isn't as awe-inspiring to me as the first three books. Those are pure gold and this is a silver with a bit of dross on it.

I have loved Brandon Sanderson’s writing since he finished the wheel of time series. After I read the Gathering Storm, I read all of his books at the time. I started with the mistborn trilogy, then moved onto Elantris and Warbreaker. All of them were AMAZING! Then he came out with the way of Kings and I thought he couldn't top what I had already read, boy was I wrong. However the 4th book devotes an inordinate amount of time to one of the worst characters I have ever read, in Shallan. I can see what he was going for, but it just never works and he seems like he's trying to force it. His grasp of DID isn't there, and so the character falls flat on so many levels and feels unauthentic. The fact that he devotes sooooo much time to it, as well makes it hard for anyone to finish the book happily. Im completely ok with self reflection and mental health but what is going in here is neither! The conclusion (which is good) of 800pgs of self deprecation doesn't make up for it. I will still recommend mistborn and the other cosmere novels to friends, but I need to see book 5 before I can rightly advise anyone to touch Stormlight Archive.

Brandon Sanderson. I have been waiting years for this book. I purchased it months in advance and couldn't wait for this book to be delivered to my Kindle library. I read this book and began to reread this book. This book really disappointed me. It is the worst book of this series so far. I don't remember much except that everyone was hiding or got killed and Nirvani agreed to help the Parshendi while Adolin and Kholin were gone doing other things that didn't quite add up. I have quite forgotten large parts of the story. You are a great writer B. Sanderson but I think this book suffered lack of attention

This doorstopper oozes the DNA of the rest of the series. Illustrations litter the book, familiar characters return, flashbacks that follow a singular character populate the different parts, and quotations kick off each chapter. Yet, at times it seems that there was a rush to complete the book and some refinement was lost. The first couple hundred pages are a setup for the rest of the book and drag at times. Little action occurs as the characters spend time brooding and another portion is spent catching the reader up with what happened in the year since Oathbringer ended. The final one hundred pages almost match this by setting up cliffhangers for the next book to resolve. The nine hundred pages in between do ignite a certain satisfaction. Roshar rushes to life again and the characters are faced with dilemmas. The reader is also given an opportunity to reflect on the virtues of both sides of the war. Yet, the world doesn't seem to be expanded as much as in previous books. The interludes, for example, focus much more on the characters that are already being followed albeit from a slightly different point of view, rather than entirely different parts of the world. The book also has some logic holes. Much of the story occurs within Urithiru. Yet, the people who rule the tower never seem to be able to do simple things such as follow suspected moles. The decisions at the end that lead to the climax also beg some questions as to whether those decisions would really be made. With all that said, for Sanderson and Roshar fans, the book is worth the large investment of time. Although not as fulfilling, it reads easily and continues one of the great modern epics.

Good ending, but at times a very slow read. The editor must have ran out of red ink to get this down to a manageable size and pacing. I can understand if there is compelling character development, but the development occurred in bursts without any real progression, just more of the same problems and whining until some sort of break through. The same could be said of the plot. A bunch of stagnation and status quo between a few action packed chapters. Unfortunately the ending allowed a further expansion of characters and universe to allow the next book to become even more bogged down in different side plots and characters. The end of this series is nowhere in sight. I hope the story telling can pick up the pace or show some sort of progression.

I enjoyed this book almost as much as the previous books in the archive. I think the book deserves a five star rating. It is just that much of the book is spent dealing with the depression and emotional trauma the characters have suffered due to what has happened in the previous books. These feelings are totally justified and I would not argue that the characters would not feel the way they do, but it hurts seeing characters you like in pain for so much of the book. So I can't say I enjoyed this book as some of the others in the archive but it was still great storytelling.

I've read all of Brandon sanderson's books up to this point in the way of King series. So far this one isn't as good at all as the others. It sets the stage though I think for the next book that seems to me will be pretty exciting. It starts out well then drags for quite a while then ends pretty heavily. overall a good read but if this was the first book in the series, I don't think I would have read the rest of them.

If you want to read a story where the main character, in which you've invested two book's worth of your time so far, has become a near suicidal whiner and the next most prominent character is going completely schizophrenic and the villains of the piece have become boring then this is the book for you!

I love sanderson dude is amazing but this one misses the mark. A lot of nothing in the middle of this book if your looking for some action this ain't it.

The biggest difficulty in reading The Stormlight Archive is that there is so much of it. Each of the four main works is over a thousand pages, and there are in addition smaller inbetween novels or novellas like Edgedancer. The books are being written as we read, so that the main works come out about three years apart. (The Way of Kings--2010, Words of Radiance--2014, Oathbringer--2017, Rhythm of War--2020.) They are big and complicated stories with lots of moving parts -- many characters, many battles of different types being fought. This all creates a difficulty for the reader. (This is an observation, not a complaint.) Each time a new novel in The Stormlight Archives comes out, I eagerly devour it. But it has been three years since the last one and 10 years since the first, so my memory of all that has happened is dim. Sanderson has said he plans ten books in The Stormlight Archives, and he is an author who can make and execute plans, so I expect that is what will happen. Thus, this will continue for a long time. However, he has indicated that the ten books will be divided into two collections of five each. Thus I hope we can expect some sort of closure after the next book. At that point I plan to go back and read them all, one after the other, in the hope of attaining some sort of comprehensive understanding. So much for the series. What about this installment? The books are tied together by characters and world-building. As in the previous three installments, Kaladin lies at the heart of much of the story. This I can only celebrate. I love Kal dearly, and have since The Way of Kings. He moves from strength to strength. The Kaladin of each new book is like a real person who grows and matures, a different man from the Kal of the previous books, but still built on the same solid core. The other main characters of this book are Shallan, Dalinar, and Navani, whom we have known previously. Navani is much more a focus of Rhythm of War than of previous books, and she really levels up. The World-building proceeds apace. Unlike the characters, it is not so much of a help to the beleaguered reader. It is more something that we struggle to keep up with than something on which to anchor our understanding. The most distinctive entities in the world of The Stormlight Archives are the spren, visible embodiments of abstract concepts, which resemble Shinto Kami more than anything else I am familiar with. (I have my own hypothesis about what spren actually are.) Spren are more active and involved in the story of Rhythm of War than of previous books. In fact, Syl -- Sylphrena, the Ancient One, the honorspren bonded to Kaladin, gets an entire chapter to herself. And there is a major story about a confrontation between spren and a human, which I will say no more about so as to avoid spoilers. There are hints, especially towards the end, that the Cosmere, the world in which The Stormlight Archives (and other works by Brandon Sanderson) has more of a science fictional nature than the pure fantasy that it appears as in The Stormlight Archives.

I’ll try not to put any spoilers: The book started great. It was fast and to the point. Then it started to just drone. Shallan is the same psychotic girl with multi personality disorder. She just drones on about her past and still can’t decide who the hell she is. Seems like she’s always a character with problems in her past... alright, we get it. I don’t need a large portion of multiple books explaining how she’s crazy. I’d much rather see the story advance. Kaladin is battling mental health issues as well, but at least he makes some progress and builds on this side of himself. Then, we’re subjected through (something like) 10% of the book just talking about music and noise and rhythms... id just take a music class if I wanted to learn about this stuff. Really a lot of this book just seems like filler. It seems like he built on characters he didn’t really need to, and that didn’t advance the story. Maybe these characters will in subsequent books, but for now it seemed like filler. The book was great for about the first 20%, then steadily evened through 50%. Then from 50% through around 88% it was sloooooow. Then it finally picked up at the very end. In a book of this size, that equates to a lot of reading that just was that engaging. Don’t get me wrong, I love Sanderson books and I love the Stormlight Archives. But this really felt like a letdown for me.

Don't worry, no spoilers. Here's the thing. All stormlight books are going to be good reviews because people, like myself, are in love with the series. The first two are two of my favorite books of all time. The third is fine. This one is a major step back. Previous criticisms are correct. No, there is hardly any action, which is saying something for a thousand page book. Yes, you could read the first 100 pages and the last 100 pages and miss nothing. the middle 800 pages is a poorly organized storyline which plods aimlessly around trying to build depth of characters, yet somehow doesn't really tell us anything we don't already know. It spends dozens of hours inside the head of characters contemplating the same issue back and forth from the last book and we don't really get a better understanding of the struggle nor the character. Prepare to spend hours listening to characters talk to themselves if you are on audible. You get a little bit of world building, which is great, but not even close to the level of the other books and honestly its not worth reading 50 pages to pick up one cool nugget about the radiants. There is, quite literally, no movement through the middle 75% of the book in terms of larger plotlines. Unfortunately you probably have to read it to keep the storyline going for the next book that is hopefully better, but the best way to sum up this book is that one day when I re-read this series, I will simply skip this one and not mind whatsoever.... and this is my favorite series of all time.

Many topics were not resolved well. SPOILER ALERT. Why did a spren bind Shallan when she was a little child? The Recreance explanation (too powerful??) and turning the honorspren into deadeyes? Why did the woman give Venli Ulim’s stone?Why would a Herald tell Eshonai to hire Szeth when he could have killed Gavilar himself? How could the Parshman have continued on if they never left dullform (mateform?). I was disappointed after spending so much time reading these books.

I’ve been an avid fan of the Stormlight Archive for a really long time, and was afraid of this book having “Middle Book” syndrome, but honestly I think it was paced pretty well! The flashbacks didn’t do as much for me as they had in previous installments, but I loved seeing the characters grow and explore their own beliefs. In particular, the exploration of how wars often have fuzzy, messy boundaries, with no population being homogenous was fascinating to me. Overall, I found it to be an absolute page-turner, full of the complex, sensitive world building Brandon is known for. 5/5!

I'm finding this book really boring. I don't care for any of the main characters in this book besides kaladin. Dalinar is hardly in it. Navani is staring at gems the whole time. All the radiants fell asleep at some point, which is incredibly intriguing to read about. They are still doing flashbacks of venli, which just seems like filler. Shallan and her multiple personalities was already annoying, but has since become even more so. I've picked up this book at least 5 different times to get through it. I hear it has a spectacular ending, which is what is keeping me going. The first 2 books were great, the last one was not bad. I just don't like this one. Most of the book just seems pointless.

Appreciate that Sanderson is trying to get a message out about mental illness but... the story and the characters take a back seat to this self indulgent lecture. 90% of the book felt like a slog and the ending was an old school rocky and bullwinkle teaser.

To start with i would have given this book 2.5 stars....but that was not an option. If you are a true Brandon Sanderson fan, meaning you have read, and really enjoyed his earlier work (Mistborn, The Way of Kings, Words of Radiance), you will find this review helpful. Oathbringer started to show a bit of rushed story telling with loose ends but the Rhythm of War takes this issue to a new level. In fact, i suspect there is some ghost writing going on in this book as well...lots of filler and no meat for chapters at a time. That is not how Sanderson's early work was created....much more care went into the entertainment value of each chapter, and the cohesiveness of the plot. Then there is so much focus on mental stability issues of some of the main characters....they can't seem to find their safe places....please, can we leave pop culture politics and social issues out of this story....again, nothing like his earlier work. I think it is good to bring attention to the personal issues characters face, but then get on with how they deal with them, not wallow in them. I am most disappointed in the fact that i waited three years for this book and on the whole, it is poorly written compared to the earlier work. I think Brandon is spreading himself to thin with all the teen books, Mistborn, and teaching that he is doing. Stormlight Chronicles is supposed to be his life's work. I hope he returns to that thought while he is writing the next book....if not, then i am done with reading his books....sad to say so i hope that is not the case.

This review is not for Sanderson’s penmanship. He is one of my absolute favorite authors and in my opinion one of the greatest world builders out there. I’ve been following ‘Rythm of war’ on tor.com and was super excited when Amazon delivered it on release date. I shrugged off the banged up spine. But I can’t as easily ignore the exposed binding. I collect all Brandon Sanderson’s books and I read them over and over and over again and this doesn’t look like it’s going to hold up to it. I brought out my copy of “Way of Kings” to compare the two and this hard bound version just doesn’t feel as luxe. The pages feel dull and thinner. I hope it’s just my copy that’s a dud so I can go out and buy another in store when this pandemic is over.

There are SO many amazing things about this book, that I hate to give it 4 stars. If you've been wanting more depth and information about the Cosmere, you'll love many of the scenes in this book. If you've had questions about Stormlight and the magic system, you'll love Navani's chapters (she was the POV I was most worried about reading and has easily become one of my favorite new POVs). Taravangian has been a very interesting character to me and he has some great chapters as well. But - if you hated Shallan's split personality chapters in Oathbringer (like I did), you're going to be sorely disappointed when you find out that character arc is back and worse than ever. I skimmed so many of Shallan's chapters that could have easily been summarized as "Shallan argues with her alter egos and accomplishes nothing". Both Shallan and Kaladin have basically their same character arcs from Oathbringer which is very frustrating to read. Venli's flashbacks are totally pointless and I skimmed most of those chapters as well. If Shallan and Kaladin had moved past the same issues from last book, this book would have been 5 stars. It's particularly infuriating when you can see where these arcs are going, and it's just 500+ pages of build up to their hopeful resolution. Lots of answers to questions, excellent climax as usual for Sanderson. If you love Sanderson and have loved the Stormlight archive you have to read this book. It's just kind of a chore for some of it unfortunately.

Brandon Sanderson is one of the best writers I have read. I have read almost everything he has ever written and for writing ability he gets and absolute 5 stars. However, book 4 of Stormlight has a very frustrating and disappointing storyline. 1000 pages of the heroes getting bested, limited, tormented, restricted, frustrated, outsmarted, outmaneuvered over and over again. So the arch of the story for this book gets 1 star, writing ability 5 stars and overall 3 stars. I was extremely disappointed with this book, so much so, that I doubt I will be continuing to read this series. I would recommend the author review the story arch he wrote when he completed the Wheel of Time series. Anyone who has read both will recognize the difference in the heroes ability to overcome adversity in that series and the constant defeat, disappointing performance, and setbacks of the heroes in this book.

What a great ending to the first half of the Stormlight series, I couldn’t put it down. As someone who has read the other cosmere books, it was great to see some more threads begin pulling together. It’s still an enjoyable read if you’re only familiar with the Stormlight series, but I highly encourage those that have not, to start reading the other series. Sanderson continues to deliver an amazing story with rich characters. I’m only saddened that I’ll now have to wait for the next book to RAFO.

I love sci fi and fantasy. I've read most of Sanderson's books, and enjoyed them. So I'm surprised to say, this just isn't great. At least, it's boring. I read 600 pages into this book before I realized I could keep paging and paging through the book and miss, absolutely nothing. All characters have nearly the same voice, tone, and reactions. Just try it, cover the name of the person whose chapter you're reading and tell me you can tell the difference more than half the time. Pages upon pages of personal reflection for almost every featured character dealing with their, "dark past," and each realizing that they, "just need to talk about it and believe in their friends." One character? Okay. Fair point. But five? Five characters with the same struggle? A main character will go through the EXACT same arc he did in TWO previous books. Other characters will just take the exact role and voice another character had in previous books. As a vet, the sections he labors on about for people going through their version of PTSD are perhaps a labor of love - trying to recognize the problem, but it's shallow and awkward to read. Sanderson delights in elaborating in the physics he made up for his magic in the series, on and on about these mysterious problems and theories. It's so dry. Anyway if you really love the series, it's fine. But if you're new and wondering where the books are going in the future, it's seemingly just in circles

Omg omg, like always Sanderson never fails to blow my mind!! What a complex plot and to have come up with such rich characters and a beautiful world, no adjectives can be suffice to describe!! You have ruined me for other authors Sanderson!! Now they all fall flat compared to yours!! Even in famous epic fantasy writers, i have only seen basic magic, some world building. But to have created a whole universe with a logical explanation as to why it has magic, and instead of just saying God giving an explanation of how or what is God is all...its mind blowing. I seriously don't know how he comes up with it!! It all aligns up, mistborn, elantris, warbreaker!! In all that you can still find humor, love, heart, honor, principles so many life lessons. My favorite is ofcourse Kaladin, he will always be along with him, Syl, Dalinar, Rock, Teft, in this book Navani to my surprise!! I could see a lot of myself in her. Ofcourse Shallan and the ever-present Wit/Hoid whom i may have a slight crush on :) Absolutely enjoyed it, now on to waiting fot the next one and rereading others from the start.

I mean who doesn't love ol Brandon. Great work on this one. My eyes hurt from reading.

While certain sections of the plot seemed to drag on slower than necessary, such as kaldins character arc, I enjoyed being immersed for so many pages regardless. My other main criticism is that so much of the writing is done in characters inner voice. The reader is not asked to draw conclusions or try to guess at motivations. Conflicted characters are thinking out loud about how conflicted they are and with so much self awareness that it somewhat loses the impact, for the reader. Oh yea, and 100% ends on a cliffhanger, though a hell of a lot did get resolved. I don't like the idea of waiting years for a novel of this length that continues the day after this one ends, and I expect will have a plot duration of 10 days.

Amazing. If I could give it more stars I would. Sanderson js incredibly inventive and creative. I love the world he has built by personifying thoughts and ideals. I'm an avid reader and I really enjoy good character development but I have to say this is the first time in years an author has reduced me to a sobbing blubbering mess because I care deeply for the characters and feel their experiences. Finally, Sanderson deals with themes of mental and emotional distress throughout this book in ways I find to be both sensitive and honest. His heroes are broken and imperfect but reflect the incredible power of knowing someone loves you and believes in you. It just makes me want to be that person that lets others know they are worthwhile and not alone in tough times. I know it's a fantasy novel but there are some underlying truths that are just so important and inspiring. Thank you Mr Sanderson. I'm a heartfelt fan

Sanderson does it again folks! Another saga in the Stormlight Archives fills me with hope, sadness, and intrigue. The story moves pretty quickly for a book of over 1,200 pages. I feel like 500 pages of this book were mostly unnecessary fluff, but the whole book was written well, as is normal for Sanderson’s work. I struggled with Kaladin’s melancholia throughout most of the book. I understand it, but it wasn’t my favorite thing to read about. I really liked Shallan’s storyline, but was a little disappointed in the lack of progress for Adolin. There seemed to be very little character progression, especially in regards to their powers. Until the end! Then BAM! In your face power surges! The last 200 pages were the best! I laughed, I cried (boy, did I cry!), and I felt empowered! The word of the book was “carapace,” which was used way more than necessary. Of course, we end with needing to know more and on the precipice of life altering events. Viva El Bridge Four!

Okay, this might be controversial but this is the best book in the series overall for me. My personal favorite is still WoK but this takes the cake as the best. All of the settings are intriguing, each has a huge stake, the plot is amazing, the reveals are unpredictable (except Kaladin's but it was still executed perfectly), the villains are amazing each with their own flavour, and the closing oooo that was something else. The flashback isn't that strong though, but ehh just a minor inconvenience. I can't wait for book 5 honestly, please let it be 2023 already.

I love Sanderson but this book is seriously flawed. Too long (how many chapters of traveling through Shadesmar with nothing happening, or of Jasnah pretending to be a warrior...), too slow, too much Kaladin and his non stop inner struggles that are really just a repeat from the other books and the similar way to level up in oaths... Navani, Rlain, Venli, Wit and Adolin (and Maya) made the book sufferable for me, but except for the finale (which honestly couldn't be more expected... Level up and a new Bondsmith that no one expected except... well everyone! Otherwise the book is dragging and the characters are just repeating over and over their previous actions. Not sure why every single Radiant safe from Lift needs to have ultra low self esteem ... Lift who's treated as a joke through the poor couple chapters she get. The series after 4 books needs a serious shake up - main character deaths or unexpected events (hopefully something interesting with Maya's story here !). It's becoming too linear: war, one character (let's call it Kal-Shal-Inar) who is suddenly overwhelm by its past and thinks the whole world hate him/her, a war, and a sudden level up in the finale..

As always the world building and character development is amazing. Sanderson is my favorite author and I have read everything by him. The shorter the story the more Sanderson excels! This book is not bad it just needs to be half it's length. The last 200 pages are where nearly everything of note happens. Dawnshard was incredible and it's mostly because there is so much happening in the 270 pages. Oathbringer at 1200+ pages is TOO long.

This is a book that is relevant to this time. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I enjoyed Shallan and her struggles. I enjoyed Kaladin's journey throughout the book. I enjoyed Navani's story the most. I struggled to get into Oathbringer, but I had no trouble with Rhythm of War. I read some of the other reviews before I started reading and expected Rhythm of War to be tedious and not enjoyable. I found it to be the opposite. I had a hard time putting it down. I could relate to the pain of the characters during their journey. The attention to detail was great. I particularly liked how the realities of Stormlight and Voidlight were revealed a little at a time through the effort and research of Navani. Overall, I liked this book a lot. I also understand why some people may have struggled with it, but for some reason it resonated with me more than I expected.

I've read a fair number of his books and generally been delighted. Books 3 and 4 of this series were a slog of boredom and distaste. Endless internal monologues that were repetitive, pointless flashbacks, actual exposition that was one sentence drops. Arbitrary deus ex machina plot shifts that took a single page between chapters of dross. Plot points that mattered telegraphed from 800 pages away. I'm going to finish the Malazan books.

I bought a hardback copy but was disappointed with how difficult it is to carry around with everything else I carry around, so I bought this kindle edition. I used the link to take me to chapter11 where I left off in the hardback and quickly discovered that nearly every time I go to the next page, the text jumps to a paragraph or more ahead of where the previous page left off, often times leaving the previous sentence incomplete. I can't even tell how much of the narrative is being lost this way. There is no way I'll be able to read this way. Too incongruous. Too many details potentially lost. Please fix, Amazon, or whoever is in charge of these things. I'm going to have to go back to reading and carrying around the hardcover brick version. The story is great so far. The format for the kindle version just leaves too much to be desired.

It is a great book and the story is maturing nicely. The flashback scenes, as always, added much flavor to the characters but sometimes I felt that they brought an unwanted change of pace in the narrative. But these scenes have been around since book 1 and overall I like them very much. As the story progresses, the stakes are higher and pressure builds up on the characters shoulders. As such, it is a story that dwells more on the character perception of the apparent hopeless ends they are trying to achieve, than on swashbuckling buccaneers. In some chapters the story was so emotionally heavy that I had to put the book down for a while and go do some other activity before I could continue the story. Some people have issues with this side of the book and have been writing about it on their reviews. Its my most humble opinion that such mental debacles have been long coming for the past three books (5 if you count 2.5 and 3.5) and there was simply no way of ignoring them without having the story suffer from it.

First, I should mention I have not finished but a quarter of this book, so it might very well improve at which time I will update the rating. Books 1-3 were so good I finished them in days despite their length. I paid good money for this book so I try and get back into it. I guess I wasn't ready for the main characters to regress to the same mental disorders. Listening to Kaladin regress and start his internal whining again just isn't fresh. I get this reflects the reality of mental illness, it just doesn't make great fiction. I am hoping the rest of the book is not like this.

I loved the first two books in this series, the third was ok, and I had high hopes for this one. Although the plot lines and intricacies are well payed out, I get a certain wheel of time vibe where the same stuff will just keep on happening - and certain characters will fade that made the first books so engrossing.

5 stars because I loved it. So here's my ramble. Critiques. Kholins feel too important. Throughout the book it's all about Dalinar, Navani, Renarin, and Adolin. Which is fine, but I feel like there should be others too? Small complaint. I love Kaladins arc in this book, but it almost feels like it went to quickly at the end and his growth kind of happened all in one moment. This could just be me reading it like that, but also I just feel eh. I loved how he focused on PTSD and Mental Health as I struggle with mental health issues and relate to this. Once again Sanderson gives characters anyone can relate to. I LOVED Shallans character arc. She really grows throughout this book. I will not spoil it. But the fact that she does what she does and grows so much, I could seriously feel her pain. While I don't have multipersonality disorder I could FEEL what it's like to have it. Adolin. His growth, but more so his bond and his honor and his owning up to not being the best. Combined with Maya's growth. I just. I think it's beautiful. This combined with how much the honor spren grow and how bad they were to him at first. I really enjoyed this. The HERALDS. AHG why. They are insane, but interesting characters man. I can't wait to see them grow in the future. I really liked Kelek and how he talks with Shallan and even helps her. Ishar is JUST WOW. The way radiants fight...It was so unexpected!!!! NAVANI AND REBONIEL. I can't even. I love this. This connection. This beauty. Science. AHG. Listen. Navani is a scholar and she needs to accept it and I just. I am so excited for her growth in this book because she discovers amazing things and the work and the love. I CAN'T. Reboniel makes me so so sad but also joyous. Her ending is wonderful. Venli and Rlain and Eshonai. She grows so much in this book, as it is her book. Her powered grow. But her relationship to others and her honesty with herself grows. There is so much progression it makes me so happy. This applies to Rlain as well. And the chapter with Eshonai might make you cry. There's so much more to this book, but that's all I can say without spoiling too much. Also, just watch for Taravangian...his progression and SZETH is pretty freaking lit. Okay. Layout. I don't like how Part 2 is basically all in Shadesmar and doesn't show the real world until part 3. It's a weird dynamic of staying with Adolin and Shallan and Navani, and never showing Emul until part 3. Definitely different. Also the flashbacks start in part 3 so I was confused as to who's book this is. I actually. I think this is technically Navani's book, but some people say it is Venli's book...I don't know who is right but that's okay!!

I can only imagine what the finale will be like if the fourth book has this much going on, and I'm excited to see what happens.

Compared to the others, this one drug on... so many time skips to the past it might as well have been called a prequel... also Kaladin and Shallan were nothing but whiny crybabies the whole book... and Lirin was no better. Hopefully the next one is better than this angst driven slog no better than twilight

Now, I don't want people to think I'm nitpicking here. If you've read the series this far, I think you are aware of what makes Mr. Sanderson's books interesting to read better than I could convey in this short review. So disclaimer, this review will deal with some criticism of RoW. There are warning signs here that things aren't perhaps as great as they could be, and I'll explain why. First is the 'long fantasy series' syndrome, where lost in details, books cover less and less ground with every new installment. Writers as great as Robert Jordan and George R. R. Martin have fell victim to it and Sanderson is starting to become no exception to it. The Stormlight Archive was never really a fast-paced series, to begin with, but it's getting worse. The entire book covers about a month, perhaps a month and a half. That doesn't seem too long for a grand war and it isn't. You spend the first hundred pages reading on what has happened in the time skip between books, and then are presented with plot points that will drag on through the entirety of RoW. There is also a strong suggestion (minor contextless spoiler ahead) that the next book will cover an even smaller timespan of a week or so. Second is the question of the characters themselves. If you didn't like the mental health issues that have been present since the first book, then you won't look forward to knowing they are here too. Mr. Sanderson's portrayal can be touching sometimes, the lack of character progression also feels frustrating, especially given how many pages go by focused solely on this. While this might seem realistic to some, I can't help but feel it romanticizes mental illness, with the unfortunate implication that, in-universe, these barely functional people were the best the spren could find, or are somehow special because of debilitating traits. Third, but and somewhat less important, is how Mr. Sanderson is starting to build this series into his 'Cosmere Avengers'. This might seem fine and even exciting to the people who can keep up with everything he has written so far, but many readers will increasingly come across things like the properties of the metals, Wit, or Szeth's sword, and lose crucial context of what is going on here.

I can never quite put my finger on it but I always feel like there's something missing in Sanderson's stories. For that reason, I particularly loved the way this one ended. With Odium screwing around with Wits mind and memory. It makes me wonder if that's happening to our much loved author? This story did finally return my desire to know what happens next in the series, it was thoroughly missing by the end of Oathbringer, so very happy to feel its return. Please remember that character driven stories are the best. ie The Wheel of Time. I will be terribly sad if the clever story loses sight of that completely. I look forward to more Elantris WofT type writing in the future. Fingers crossed! Thank you for sharing your imagination with us! God bless!

Brandon is juggling so many balls with the Stormlight Archive (not to mention the cosmere), and while this isn’t a ‘perfect’ book, it is truly astounding, and deserves 5 stars. - He fleshes out and gives respect to so many cultures within the Rosharan system, and anytime you might be tempted to think that it’s safe to say that ‘they’ are all evil, Brandon goes and shows that no one has a monopoly on morality. - His exploration of science with magic almost makes my brain hurt, but it’s exciting all the same. - Sword-nimi is the best, especially when listening to the audiobook depiction. Also a couple certain Cryptic Spren... - How awesome is it to see people of so many ages, abilities, genders, and color getting to be a hero??? - He spends SO much time discussing a HUGE variety of people with disabilities, both mental and physical: PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, dissociative personality disorder, brain damage from birth complications, paralysis, missing limbs... and it’s not just ONE person representing each thing listed. It’s exciting to see the representation, and I want to press this series (ie MASSIVE TOMES) into so many friends’ and family members’ hands. Of the 4 full books in the Stormlight Archive, this book is perhaps a bit clunkier when juggling the MANY perspectives Brandon has available to write from, but I respect his choices and am excited (though a bit fearful, given some of the ominous promises near the end of the book) for Book 5. Only a few years away!

I never write reviews and I am sad about this one...such a great series and author but this is the most long winded book I have ever read. It just goes on and on with no resolution. I am 71% done and feel that more than 75% of what I have read has been fluff...boy I hope it gets somewhere soon. I find myself reading the first and last sentence of each page just to get through it. So sad as his previous books and series have been so incredible. I hope I can finish it so it will not have been a complete waste of time.

First, I always feel a sense of accomplishment at finishing a 1270 page book-I can't imagine how it feels to finish writing one. I love this series a lot but this is clearly a "building-to-what-is-next" book. There is a lot of internal, personal conflict especially for Kaladin (my favorite) and Shallan, both getting some good resolution. Navani really gets to shine in this book and I really enjoyed both her exploration of the physics of her world and her relationship with an enemy, the wonderfully complex Raboniel. Venli also gets some good focus, though the constant leaping back to an earlier time was starting to wear on me. This does all set up the next book, though it will likely be quite a while before we see it.

I am a Stormlight Archive apologist in ever way/shape/form. It is by a landslide my favorite series of books that I have ever read. The way Sanderson crafts his worlds and brings them to life while making you care deeply for not only the “hero’s” of the story but also the antagonistic forces that alias them makes my heart break in every book. Rhythm of War builds upon everything that has been built before it not only the Stormlight archive but also the Cosmere as a whole. In this book he really begins the larger work of connecting many pieces that we have been waiting for. His prose is excellent as always. His characters are full of life and hopes and dreams, but more importantly pains, failures, pains, and in some cases brokenness. There’s so much to learn about the human condition in book 4. I think I’m a couple places this book drags on a bit more than you would hope and that hurts the flow. That is my single and tiny criticism. If you’re into Brandon’s writing, this will be a big hit for you! I could barely put the giant book down :)

This is absolutely the best series I have ever read and Rhythm of War is my favorite of the series so far. All the characters have an individual voice and have been fully developed. The reason I didn't like the Mistborn series was because it all hinged on this male saviour and the female characters never felt as real or vivid. I didn't even finish it and I almost always finish a series even if it's poorly written. I don't remember why I decided to read this series but I'm so glad I did. I read a LOT of books. I'll read a 300 page book in a day. So for this to be my favorite is high praise because I've read many hundreds of books. He's not my favorite author, that's reserved for Neal Stephenson, but this is definitely the best series I've read so far. He seamlessly brings together all the disparate pieces of the story so far and melds them into a breathtaking story. Read this series! I promise you won't be disappointed!

All this means is that I love this book and all that it entails. I loved Kaladin’s story as well as Adolin’s and Maya’s story. I love learning more about Navani and her love of learning and scholarship. This book just has so much goin* on and there’s a lot to digest. Please read it!

How does he keep putting out such great work on so short a time?!? Another fantastic read from a truly gifted author, Rhythm of War is a monster of a book and yet I loved every second while reading. Kaladin continues his journey through finding some balance after devastating events of the last few years, Dalinar continues to push the boundaries of expectations of Vorinism while beginning to takes steps as a bondsmith, and the other favorites are there too. Adolin and Shallan play a significant role again while Navani gets some serious stage time. Can't wait for the next one!

I loved the first two books but hated the last one. I felt like Oathbringer was filler, and quite frankly, am not even sure Sanderson wrote it. Rhythm started out great but about 1/4 of the way through starts to get bogged down again and boring (like Oathbringer). I will continue to read for a final review, but right now, reading this book is a bit of a slog

I love Brandon Sanderson, and applaud how he was able to wrap up Robert Jordan’s epic concisely (well, as succinctly as possible). However, I felt like this book went in some of those same overly descriptive tangents that he had to fix in someone else’s story. The parts about Honor were wonderful and I teared up quite a few times. The parts about mental health, music theory and types of light were waaaaay to drawn out. I skimmed through quite a bit of those sections - and most of the flashbacks. I am bummed that I’ll have to wait so long for the finale, as I reread all the other books of this series as prep for this one! Kaladin as bridge runner and his story was so much fun...... this book not so much. But it’s a great series and even though I didn’t enjoy reading this book as much as I was anticipating, it was nice to get back to Urithuru.

I had this on pre-order, and was eagerly awaiting it’s release. I loved the first three, and was expecting the same from this one. For some reason, though, it didn’t get me in the same way as the earlier ones. Was it COVID fatigue? Or just the writing wasn’t as good, the story quite as riveting? I’m not sure right now. The first 80% took a couple of months to get through. Then I finished in a day and want more again! So I’m kinda torn right now! I guess bottom line, is you read the first three, read this too. Number 5 should be climactic (Sanderson has said there will be 5 books in the first part of this series, then 5 in a second part) and the story is so involved, you’ll need to know what went on! I also wish I didn’t have to wait for the next one! People 10 years (or more) from now will be able to read all of them straight through... I am jealous of you!

Well he's done it again... another quality work and this might be his best book yet. Unfortunately now I must wait for another book to be produced so I might climb from my hole like the chasmfiends to devour my next literary meal. From the bottom of my gemheart I thank you Brando Sando.

I am about a third through this book. It is hard to keep my interest, I have to force myself to finish a chapter before quitting for the night. I haven't felt like reading it more for a couple of weeks. I hope it gets better. It is defiantly not as good so far as the first 3 books so far.

I eagerly devoured this book as soon as it was released. I'm already starting my second read through because the complexities of this world and the characters deserves more attention than I gave it on my first mad dash through the story. Already eagerly waiting for the next one!

Brandon tends to slow his pace often in the previous books and then throw together some action at certain points throughout the narrative. This book falls out from this pattern on several occasions. It runs a bit slow, trying to go deeper into all of the protagonists development, and it does seem for a long time a little bit of a drag and even tiresome. It can be hard to follow at times, a plot that keeps building up, story seems to choke you as you would expect some events to happen to lift from the characters some of the drama they are forced to go through, but it does not happen until you reach about 90% of the book. If you make it towards the end, you are rewarded with a rush of events, twists and turns that will leave your mind blown. It's true, the book could have been shortened a quite a bit, reducing the amount of intrigue and adding more action but it feels a bit of a set-up for Book 5. I recommend to anyone preparing to read this chapter, to approach it with patience, open mind, because Sanderson appears to be adding some background stories to the characters before plunging into - what I can only expect at this point - an insane, action packed finale. Little Spoiler! And one last thing - At the end of the book a Seon appears. Is this related to Elantris????? Anyway, it keeps me on the toes - "Like a splinter in my mind" - especially because it seems to be like the ones in Elantris!

I typically buy two copies when a new Stormlight book comes out: The hard cover and the audiobook. After this one, I'll probably just wait to get it from the library. I'm going to voice my disappointment with my dollars. I understand that all series have a boring low point, but I was really hoping the Stormlight Archive would be different. Nope.

I have loved the first three Stormlight books. Easily my favorite series. The secrets of the cosmere in this book are a payday for three books of questions, to say nothing of other series that feed into the universe. Super fun. At times, torture, only because Brandon is not afraid to torture his own characters. And, we've grown to love them so much it's almost unbearable when they suffer. And they suffer a lot in this book. His foreshadow, buildup, and climaxes are legendary. Amazing.

The continuing adventures of Kalidan and Co continue to intrigue. A great epic novel that kept me reading whenever I had a minute. His detail is just right (Tom Clancy, imho, wrote too much detail) to let your imagination know who these characters are. My only small negative: we all have lost loved ones and everyone reacts differently. I wish I could have some Moash feelings but I think some of the characters may react either too emotional or not enough. I write reviews without spoilers so will leave it there but if you'd enjoyed the previous Stormlight, you'll enjoy this as well!

Sanderson’s writing is always great. This particular story is not especially great. It’s not bad, and it scratched that itch Iv been having for a new book, but I couldn’t help but feel like this was just a means to an end in terms of story... the character’s had not changed, they faced the same struggles, and there was only two major world changing events (I know that sounds like a silly phrase but considering what happened in the previous books...) It tells a story and fills in much needed missing information, especially in terms of the parshendi... but other than that it’s pretty much a filler story leading up to a bigger one. And yes, Shallan is as absolutely terrible of a character as she always has been. Still the single worst creation in Sanderson’s career.

I am a huge Brandon Sanderson fan but this book was a huge disappointment. The book was beautifully written but the storyline lacked excitement and dragged. A majority of the flashback chapters were not necessary and were more frustrating to read than enjoyable. Hopefully book 5 will revert back to centering around the main characters.

Nothing here I can add that hasn't already been said about this book. Mr Sanderson still is at the top of his game, while pumping out two books a year ( roughly) he puts others to shame. I 'll finish with this thought about these books, after finishing, you'll still be deeply engrossed with the Cosmere . Making anything you try to read next challenging.

This is a very long book. I often prefer long books but they have to pull you through the story and make you want to finish. I almost put this book down on multiple occasions early on. There's way too much conversation and very little action melded with boring story arcs (burned out Saladin, multiple personality Shallan..). The last 40% of the book picked up the pace though, and I was satisfied at the end. The were too many occasions during this read when I wished I was reading something else. I'll probably be back for the next one though.

The amount of imagination, ingenuity, time and pure work that must have gone into creating Roshar, it's inhabitants, it's powers and the shadow forces beyond leave me awestruck. As a youth might stand in a gallery with a sketchbook fancying themselves to be an artist only to look up and realize they stand before a masterpiece; I have realized how very far I have to go. Only 2 other times have I ever been this moved by a series. In grade school when I read the Chronicle's of Narnia, and in my early 20's when I first read Lord of The Rings. The Stormlight Archive is a series I continue to read over and over again puzzling out new connections and meanings each time. It is a series that has inspired me not to give up on my own creations. I have been moved to learn to draw, to take up calligraphy again after decades, I am devising my own house sigil using Alethi calligraphic glyphs. This story has more than inspired me. It has changed the way I view my own journey, and the paths I choose to walk. Journey before destination. Bridge four.

TLDR: Not the best in the series, but I will still buy the next one. What I liked : - Some of the PoVs are pretty good. I liked Venli, and her exploration of her inner turmoil. - Still like the way he writes a battle. - Still like Dalinar, the little I got of Lift, Jasnah. Still some good red meat in the story. What I didn"t like: - seemed to write a lot of words and not do much to advance the plot. Only 1, maybe 2 things really seem to advance the plot towards the finale, a la Robert Jordan from Lords of Chaos on. - Over the course of the last two books has taken my favorite PoV, Kaladin, and turned it into one of my least favorite. Same with Shallan. The whole split personality seems a little drawn out now. Seems like the big reveal here is a little anti-climactic after we had already found out some of the other things she has done in her past. -the book is just way too long, 1200 pages on kindle. Think it could have used some more judicious editing. - Navani . . . marie curie wrapped up with albert einstein wrapped up with robert oppenheimer. Seemed vaguely like a quisling to me. - now there are so many different PoVs it's hard to keep track of who is doing what. While its a huge, all encompassing book, the narrative suffers to me from so much info. Goes back to editing, I guess.

I am glad the story is progressing, but man, I am tired of Kaladin being such a crybaby. Like some of the other comments are stating, we're not looking for a mental health and acceptance guide shoved into our face. I get enough of that in the real world, and read fantasy to escape it all. Something was lost in the writing, as well. What gripped me from the other books is how Sanderson is able to jump from character to character and their stories across the world, causing an absolute need to get back to the other character's story from 20 chapters ago. Other than that, some things in the story felt rushed and unplanned but it was overall funish. I am excited for the fifth book, but please keep it fantasy.

There are books you can simply call masterpieces and this is certainly one of them. Reading this you will doubt this can really be the work of a man, it’s far too well though, packed with so much information, so much story it’s feels impossible. I read this book non stop, paused everything and just read. Anything else was a break, a distraction. Not many books give you this feeling, this necessity to go to the next page and the next after and you just can’t resist. And I cried, not just once. The moments were powerful and not telegraphed. It was inspiring and the depth of ideas presented, sentiments was mindnumbling. You will find heroes and enemies all masterfully shaped, a plethora of them and you won’t rush to your favorite because they all have something to give. The story is good and the revelations plenty. You will be in shock and awe struggling to fit it all in the end. It was so much, how / what will fill the next books when we got so much here. To be honest we got so much more knowledge this book more than any other in the series. I hope this doesn’t kill the mystery from the future ones. Now the pacing was very good. It started really strong and to be frank it slowed down at 50%. I expected the last 15% of the book to happen right at the 50% but the next 35% was theory and character building. A touch slower than the rest of the book but still fulfilling. Usually, I feel sad when such a good book ends, but this one I know I will re-read for sure, hopefully at a slower pace and enjoy it again and again. If you are reading this anyway I’m sure you are already sold on the series! Enjoy it

"Rhythm of War" is the best installment to The Stormlight Archive yet. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. I love how Brandon Sanderson has progressed both the story and the characters. Sanderson's ability to tell Kaladin's story and tie the advancement of his powers to his mental health makes this a really powerful story. I really like that Sanderson also brings the background characters to life by giving them roles that are just as central to the story as the main characters. I can't wait for Book 5.

I love the cosmere that Brandon Sanderson has created we'll just start there. Back in the beginning it took me several tries to read The Way of Kings. I read a ton of books but this one seriously took several attempts before I really started seeing the story. And now I can't wait for more. I love the magic system he's created for the cosmere and can't wait for more. This is not a stand alone book, you need to have read the others in this group. But I'm here to tell you it's absolutely worth it!!

Sanderson is clearly a talented writer, but I’ll be honest, it felt like a slog to get through this latest book and I debated putting it down multiple times. There are lengthy stretches of dialogue that add length without meaningfully advancing the story, and a large number of perspectives to switch between. The latter made it particularly difficult to get into the story (between all the interludes and characters, not to mention that Shallon alone has multiple personas!). I found myself skipping over entire chapters just to feel like I made progress. It definitely picks up in pace a bit towards the end, but not sure I’ll be continuing the journey through the next installment...

I’ll keep this short and spoiler free. I am huge huge Sanderson fan. After eagerly awaiting this book for three years I was very disappointed. For a book that was 1200 pages (I think, I read on a kindle) remarkably little happens. Three big things that happened were telegraphed in the previous book which made me think they would happen early on in RoW but they were dragged out through this ENTIRE book. It all just felt like filler. We have this beautiful unique world and we didn’t explore any of it. 75% of the book takes place in the tower. Shallans plot felt like the same plot from previous books. It was less of a book than just a big lore dump that I could have read in an encyclopedia. Oh and the flashback sequences were boring and irrelevant to the main storyline.

This continues to be one of my favorite series. I did a complete re-read before starting book 4, which you almost have to do to keep track of everything. But if you like complex worlds and storylines then this is for you. As the world fills out it's interesting to see where things are going. And in particular I like how Kaladin deals with the fact that in the end we all die. That just makes it more important to live a purposeful life, and treasure the times together.

Unfortunately the first part of this book was incredibly slow and didn’t do much for the story line. Felt like a lot of fluff writing to increase word count. The book ended in a grand fashion, and left me wanting more. But it was tough to get to that point. Looking forward to the next installment in the series and hoping we can move the story a bit further along.

I'm a big fan of the Cosmere and thus a big fan of the Stormlight series as it's more directly and obviously Cosmere related than the other Cosmere books. Rhythm of War keeps the series moving more in that direction and unlike some other reviewers, I found this book the easiest Stormlight novel to read and the easiest to stay engaged with the whole way through. I can certainly see how that would be more of a struggle for readers who enjoy Roshar more than the Cosmere. Sanderson is a consistently fantastic writer and for me, Rhythm of Kings is another display of his talent. If you enjoy high fantasy and "magic" that arises from consistent systems, the Cosmere is a wonderful place to be.

Once again Sanderson delivers in a fantastic way. Rhythm of War is everything I wanted it to be. I cannot recommend this series, and Sanderson as a whole, enough.

The beginning and ending were exciting and eye opening but the long middle was a slog. The long middle section was depressing and tedious. I’ve found reading from the “enemy” point of view somewhat difficult to relate to. I’m sure the whole body of work is necessary in the storytelling but parts were just exhausting. One thing I’ve learned is that I need to read the rest of the cosmere books now that the world or worlds of this series appear to be expanding.

First the good stuff, this is Sanderson quality, so good flow and great world building continues from the previous books.There are some great plot twists and really leaves you waiting for more. The bad though...To me, it feels like Sanderson is, ironically enough, right on the brink of doing "a Jordan", by which i mean letting the story get too big and the powers and characters too powerful. It feels like the story has gone from grim and believable into a more strange territory. Personally I like Sanderson best when he sticks to a more limited approach, but I guess this varies for others.

What can I say? I've read pretty much all of Brandon's books and I normally can't put them down. This one I could. It was like pulling teeth. The story line didn't go anywhere, you could have read the last 15 percent of the book and that would have been good enough. I was so disappointed in this book, I ended up reading other books when I just couldn't bring myself to keep reading it. I finally finished it after forcing myself to keep reading it. Hopefully the next one isn't as bad, if it is, I don't know if I could bring myself to read the next 5 books that he is planning to write in the storm light archives. Good luck if you still decide to read it

If you've noticed, in many of the recent stories and novels Brandon has released, he's often regressed to telling us the story instead of showing it. I'm ecstatic and pleased to report that in Rhythm of War, Brandon is Back! Simply put, it's very well written. Unfortunately, the story arc itself is a bit lackluster and anticlimactic when compared to the Way of Kings. Other reviewers have mentioned the intense focus here on mental health. Although Brandon paints a realistic picture, sometimes the genre needs to come first. Worth reading, but it probably won't wow you.

Some of the suffering of POV characters grinds a bit this go-round, as serious mental illness plagues 2 of the main protagonists for the vast majority of the book. Still, the plot is engaging and there are a couple of big developments awaiting Stormlight Archive fans. This one is more explicitly linked to other Cosmere works than earlier entries, which will likely confuse casual readers and delight Sandersonistas in equal measure. Though not PERFECT it was an engaging read with characters I am quite fond of. Eagerly awaiting the next entry!

These words are accepted. Sanderson is at his best in this latest entry, giving us answers aplenty, and giving us many new questions to ask. We all were wanting to see how the events of this book would play out, and I am very happy to say that I’m not disappointed in the least. Perhaps the worst part of reading this book, like any other Sanderson works, is that they must eventually come to an end. I can’t wait for the next beginning.

Can epic fantasy get better than this? This is entertaining the whole way through. There is so much going on and so much information that it should get bogged down at some point. Even the characters I don’t like much is still good reading. I only say that because the characters I really like are hard to leave. It shreds my soul that the books are so far apart, but I love the other works of Brandon as well. So I guess it’s ok. :)

By now, you either love, Love, LOVE Sanderson, or just kinda like him. Of his books, this book moved the goal post the least i think, and was slower than the others. Regardless, It was a page turner that I couldn't put down, because even Boring sanderson is good. (except Elantris, sorry bud). I cannot wait for the next installment, the Cosmere is both getting bigger all the time, but may be this book made it a little smaller!

Rhythm of War is worthy of being the 4th book in a series that has already garnered much praise for its breathtaking world, heart pounding action, and relatable and interesting characters. The characters (especially Kaladin) reach new depths, the action (especially the beginning and end) is visceral, and the world (more like universe) is ever an ever expanding joy to behold. While some longtime fans might find the “flashback” sequences to be less engaging than Oathbringer’s it still manages to connect to the story of one of the characters fairly well while also enticing die hard cosmere fans with its hints of wider implications that go beyond Roshar. It should also be noted that Dalinar does take a bit of a backseat in this book, but where they leave his story at the end of the book indicates to me that Stormlight 5 will rectify anyone’s complaints about the lack of Dalinar in Rhythm of War. While it might not be my favorite book in the series it certainly isn’t anything but amazing. This series is on track to becoming a modern fantasy classic and this book simply reinforces that sentiment.

The book is a great book, love the series. This one in particular though has been falling apart at the seem since we got it. Haven’t even got to finish it and can hardly keep it together. I’m not sure how it was so poorly done and falling apart so badly but it sucks!

I absolutely loved this book. Journey before destination is right! I started reading this series in September and I crushed through the first 3 books they were so good. I was so happy when I heard the 4th was coming out in November and I read through this one just as fast as the first 3. Sanderson is an excellent writer and when you read his books you really feel like you are part of the story. Some parts can be hard to read because of the challenges facing the characters but I love reading their journeys. This has been such a great diversion from everything going on in the world although you can draw some parallels between what is happening in the world and in the book. All in all I highly recommend this series to anyone! You will not be disappointed.

There is a lot of world build back filling in especially for the Parshendi and main character development. This is satisfying. The overall story doesn't progress a lot. I think this book is setting the stage for book 5. Sanderson does this in each of his books as well, his finales are a rush of activity and promise fulfillment. As he says the series will be two five book story arcs. This 5th book should be a rush. I'm looking forward to it!

Nonsensical, near insane decision making by some of the main characters that hand enormous advances to the enemy. Too hard for me to believe any person would realistically behave this way. I'm in disbelief, but this book was indeed not very good!

This 4th installment of The Stormlight Archive begins to tie up some loose ends in character development for a lot of the major players like Kaladin, Shallan, and Navani in particular. I laughed, I cried, I yelled in frustration, and screamed in joy. This book, this series, this COSMERE, is so deeply and profoundly laid out in great detail. The fact that pretty much EVERY SINGLE BOOK written by Sanderson is either coming into play or will come into play absolutely blows my mind, and shows a level of planning beyond any author I have ever read. If you have only read The Stormlight Archive then I urge you to go farther down the rabbit hole and read everything Sanderson has put out. You will not regret it, and it can only enhance an already epic and amazing series.

How does one digest a compelling novel built upon three previous compelling novels? A page at a time, savored, stirred not shaken, with a tapestry painted within your mind. This collection will not be everyone's favorite. Indeed the detail can slow the storytelling. Yet for those who tingle at the exquisite details woven throughout its tale it will leave you humming to the rhythm of contentment.

I don’t know what Brandon Sanderson has lived through, what he’s done with his mind, where he’s gone inside himself to be able to be this deep about our soul, our emotions, the nature of our reality, the purpose in our lives, and turn it into a story that is so enrapturing, so moving, and so profoundly transformational if you let it be. I don’t really know what else to say so I will just say thank you to him and to everyone else who makes this work possible.

This book (admittedly) feels like it is setting up for a grand finale of this arc of the series in book 5. But that doesn't mean it was anything less than excellent. Rhythm of War was a brilliant continuation to the series, piecing together character arcs, world building, and multiple layers of story and plot lines. It was exactly what it needed to be.

(spoiler-free) Character development in this book is deep, relatable, and so incredibly well-paced. There are many distinct viewpoints in this book, and yet none of them feel underdeveloped or lacking in attention or care. Sanderson is one of the masters of World building, but has found an opportunity in RoW to bring his exquisite character development to the forefront of focus.

This is not a review of the contents of the book. You either liked it or you didn't.... We got this book and have shared it around the family. The binding made it thru about 1 and a half readings before the front cover started to separate. By half way thru the 3rd reading the front cover completely fell off and we have a couple more people who want to read it too! Sad.... I know there's a difference between a library quality binding and what is being sold here, but we didn't treat this volume roughly and it should have held up better than this! I can't imagine a paperback doing worse. We deserved better for the price we paid.

This book was difficult to finish. Endless betrayals. Chapter after chapter. It was over used. Disappointing. Hopefully the next book isn't such a grind.

This is an amazing book. So far one of the best he has ever written. The way Brandon captures many of the mental ailments people suffer in such a heart wrenching real and inspiring way almost made me cry multiple times. My wife works with people that suffer some of these issues and seeing him write about them in such a realistic way was something I have never before experienced in fantasy novels. Robert Jordan's character, Rand, would be the closest in my opinion. Even GRRM couldn't come close to the emotional intimacy Brandon expresses in The Rhythm of War. The characters all are heroes but not because the author made them that way, but because they actually chose to lean on the people that loved them and eventually learn to overcome their pain and become stronger in ways they never thought possible. Great job Brandon. Another wonderful story!!!

I finally finished this book, and I honestly think it's one of Sanderson's best. Yes, there is a lot of psychology and angst, but it's necessary and right, and adds to the climax in very meaningful ways. I was truly touched by the effort Sanderson puts into helping the reader understand various characters' minds, and he obviously spent a lot of time and effort in trying to achieve depth and accuracy here. Character development of more minor characters is a great addition. Overall stick with it and you won't be disappointed!

Sure it isn't the adult horrorgasm reality greatness of Game of Thrones but it asks serious questions about life in an unreal world as the author intelligently works through the genres tropes all while putting his style into this latest chapter of what will eventually be a 10 book series that will most likely be written in your lifetime. Sanderson is amazing about remembering that the books needs beginnings, middles, and endings and he certainly delivers with this installment. Enjoyed this book and I will enjoy re-reading again and again as further novellas and tomes are added to the series.

I am thoroughly enjoying the Stormlight Archive series. This one was still an enjoyable read with a great story and engaging characters. The only thing that brings it down in my estimation is that it doesn't have quite the emotional punch in the final act that the first three books had. This is still an enjoyable book and I am looking forward to the conclusion of the series.

I found this to be a little bit of a slog halfway through, with the same character defects causing the same issues, and the story really not progressing for long periods of reading. I get that it's part of the build up, but there's some editing needed. Still, it's a Sanderson epic, and the scope of the story and action sequences overall is truly the top of the game right now.

This book revealed so much about the commerce and begins to tie more with mistborn and other novels from the cosmere. It’s long and at times a little too much about the singer’s character development but clearly they are a critical part of the story and needed the introduction in more depth. Looking forward to book 5.

I like Sanderson’s books, but I always find myself skimming about halfway through. I wish he’d start making an effort to streamline these stories a bit more. There just isn’t enough action going on here to justify the amount of words he puts on the page. It gets repetitive and boring after a while, like he thinks his readers aren’t intelligent enough to read between the lines so he feels compelled to spell out EVERYTHING.

Of course, there are some serious twists there at the end. And it was awesome to learn about the other worlds. Brandon Sanderson is able to really tell a story while navigating complex topics. I also feel so much more sympathy foe the other side. Who the “bad guy” is has been kind of switched around a lot in this book, so it’s complex and I love it.

The first thing my grandchild did when she saw the book was to start looking at all the books Brandon Sanderson has written and she has nearly all of them. Every time a new one comes out I purchase it for her for her birthday or Christmas which ever is closer. She started with Elantis and has read all of them since. She's quite a fan of his.

Yes I'm a Sanderson fan. This one is just leaving me uninterested. I loved the first 3 books. In my honest opinion this one needs more relationships and fewer technical details. So far the characters are all in their own little world. I'm halfway through and have to force myself to pick it up and read. I read 10-25 hours a week on average.

Brandon Sanderson is an incredible author who creates amazing worlds with in depth magic systems. There is a good reason he was chosen to finish the Wheel of Time series. His skills and books continue to get better each time. Highly recommend the Stormlight Archive to anyone who likes fantasy. My only complaint is that he is too good of an author and I don't want to wait another 4 years for the next book to get my questions answered!

Ok , I wanted to truly enjoy this installment in the series. World building - check, character growth - check. The plot however , has more twists than a bag of pretzels. If you enjoy earth science, some high school physics, a preoccupation with the visible light spectrum then perhaps you'll be into this book. So much makes the eyes glaze over. I have no idea who is doing what to whom and why. Not sure you will even care. Like a shard blade in the hands of a mere mortal - the book is just unwieldy. If you really like Dalinar and Kaladin read on.

The normal action one expects from Mr Sanderson, with a lot of probing into mental illness. Kal is going through PTSD, Navani is suffering from a lack of self esteem, Shallan, Adolin, pretty much ALL the main characters are struggling in one way or another with emotional, spiritual or physical issues. Well written and well handled.

I'm loving the universe and learning more about it, loving the twists...the beginning of the book read too slow for me and the ending seems hurried with every single thread being tied up in the last 10% of the book but without as much catharsis and consequence as I would have hoped. The universe is getting very complicated also and I feel like the book doesn't explain enough leaving the reader to have to find answers in Wikis and such.

Sanderson is a craftsman with work: there is never a dull moment (and if you feel like it’s slowing down...get ready to go into warp-speed)! While I’m not done with Rhythm of War; I am the happiest I’ve ever been reading this series. Seeing the characters grow and really develop is like growing up with 3-5 closest friends. The one downside to Sanderson’s works is that...you’ll have a hard time enjoying other author’s writing because they don’t come close to him master storytelling and world building. (Shh, I’m cheating on three different authors right now while I work through RoW ... and loving every moment of it!)

I won't give away any spoilers, but this book continues obviously where Oathbringer left us. The Knights Radiants are growing, but so are Odium's forces. If you liked the first three you don't need me to tell you how good the story is. All I can say is it just keeps getting better and more expansive. Can't wait for book 5 now.

Brandon Sanderson has knocked it out of the park again. Without giving anything away, I'll just say that if you enjoyed the previous books in the series, this one keeps the same Brando Sando quality you've come to expect, if not even more. And remember: The most important book a man can read is always the next one. ;)

An outstanding continuation of this journey of beings; human, singer, and spren. I love how Sanderson delves deeper in to how perspective is everything. Whoever is good, or evil, is truly in the eye of the beholder. The novel is lengthy but I found myself flying through the pages and by the end I hungry for more. Now, I shall very eagerly await the next installment of what has been an outstanding literary experience.

As has become the usual every couple of years Sanderson gets to have about a week of my life. Another excellent installment of the series, this one has a little more of a slow burn, building gradually throughout. Characters seem to be exploring themselves a bit more (or Sanderson is exploring them?) but it all pays off. Here's to another two year wait before he gets me again.

What a journey! Left me on the edge of my seat, wondering what comes next. It's going to be a painful wait for the next book, but will be worth it. Things are coming together in Rhythm of War that will answer questions we've had for a while and may offer a peek at what's in store for our band of heroes and villains.

Misprint. First copy missing pages 257-288. Instead it double printed pages 193-224. Returned and ordered another copy. Second copy is missing pages 225-288. How is this even possible?!

usually i hungrily devour any sanderson book, yet this one is an exception. i've struggled for months and finally gave up without finishing. (~80% done) i absolutely loathe one of the main characters and moderately hate another. on top of that, the series is starting to feel like a parade of mental illness. i feel the moral object lessons in the book have totally overwhelmed the story that's supposed to wrapped around them.

Pretty much the heading. This is the best installment of this series so far, due to him slowing honing his craft, though his characters are still pretty flat, he's made more progress with his prose, employing slightly varying styles with each of the different character's chapters and moving away from the standard, predictable format of his previous books. Anyways, I mostly only read these to glean all the worldbuilding details and to understand how he pictures the cosmere as a whole.