Brandon Sanderson's The Way of Kings is widely praised for its intricate world-building, rich character development, and complex magical systems. Readers commend its epic scope but note that its extensive length and heavy exposition can be challenging. Overall, it's a rewarding read for devoted fantasy fans, despite requiring patience for storyline development.

Fans of epic fantasy with intricate world-building, like J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings and Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time, will relish Brandon Sanderson's The Way of Kings. These readers appreciate expansive narratives, deep lore, complex characters, and rich magic systems. Ideal for those seeking immersive and long-form storytelling.

On the continent of Roshar, several characters develop the ability to channel stormlight, a radiant energy that enables magic. Among them are Kaladin, a former soldier turned slave; Shallan Davar, a noblewoman seeking to save her family; Dalinar Kholin, a warrior questioning his society; and Szeth-son-son-Vallano, an assassin. Their paths converge at the Shattered Plains amid an ongoing war. The book contains graphic depictions of injuries and death, including death by suicide.

Adventurous / Mysterious / Inspirational / Emotional / Fantastical

- The Way of Kings is the first book in Brandon Sanderson's The Stormlight Archive series, which was initially inspired by the author’s fascination with storms and how they shape the environment and cultures.
- Brandon Sanderson wrote the original draft of The Way of Kings shortly after finishing Elantris, and it was set aside for several years before being completely rewritten and published in 2010.
- The book features ten orders of Knights Radiant, each associated with a different magical ability, system introduced through the comprehensive "Ars Arcanum" at the end of the novel.

**Kaladin Stormblessed**  
A young man from a small town with a background in medicine, who becomes a central figure in a military troop despite facing personal struggles and tragic losses.

**Shallan Davar**  
A young woman from an aristocratic family, known for her drawing skills and curiosity, who embarks on a journey of personal growth as she navigates her conflicted past.

**Dalinar Kholin**  
A powerful and influential noble, uncle to the king, who grapples with visions and moral challenges as he seeks to unite his people and understands his own past.

**Jasnah Kholin**  
An intellectually-driven Alethi princess and scholar recognized for her logical approach, who mentors Shallan while pursuing answers concerning her father's assassination.

Brandon Sanderson

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The Stormlight Archive

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Before You Read

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Before You Read The Way of Kings | SuperSummary

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Overview

The Way of Kings follows Kaladin’s rise from slavery and Shallan’s search for truth, revealing secrets of magic, history, and heroism in Roshar.

The Way of Kings Summary and Study Guide

Background

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The Way of Kings Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Above Silence”

Prelude-Part 1, Chapter 11

The Way of Kings Prelude-Part 1, Chapter 11 Summary & Analysis

Interludes 1-3

The Way of Kings Interludes 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Illuminating Storms”

Part 2, Chapters 12-28

The Way of Kings Part 2, Chapters 12-28 Summary & Analysis

Interludes 4-6

The Way of Kings Interludes 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Dying”

Part 3, Chapters 29-51

The Way of Kings Part 3, Chapters 29-51 Summary & Analysis

Interludes 7-9

The Way of Kings Interludes 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Storm’s Illumination”

Part 4, Chapters 52-69

The Way of Kings Part 4, Chapters 52-69 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “The Silence Above”

Part 5, Chapter 70-Epilogue

The Way of Kings Part 5, Chapter 70-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Way of Kings Character Analysis

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Themes

The Way of Kings Themes

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The Way of Kings Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Way of Kings Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Way of Kings Essay Topics

The Way of Kings

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

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Who Should Read The Way of Kings?

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