Gollancz Words of Radiance Part One: The Stormlight Archive Book Two

The second volume of ‘The Stormlight Archive’ is just as enthralling as the first, if not more so, and continues to develop what has become a thoroughly enjoyable epic.It concentrates on a few characters, following events from their perspectives. Whereas Kaladin was, perhaps, the more major character of ‘The Way of Kings’ there is more emphasis on Shallan in this book. Thus, we find out much more about her life and background and she becomes more instrumental in events. As in ‘The Way of Kings’ much of the content comes from the perspectives of Kaladin and Dalinar. Though Dalinar this time shares some of the limelight with his son, Adolin, who becomes more of a fully rounded character during the course of this novel.There is also still the occasional section/chapter from other perspectives, generally through the various interludes. This includes more from the tormented and dangerous Szeth building upon his portrayal in the previous book, a touch of insight into enigmatic Wit and the introduction of Eshonai to represent Parshendi interests. There is also an interlude that opts to focus upon Taravangian where we learn a lot more about him and his objectives, gaining a slight idea of how he fits into the return of the Knights Radiant.‘Words of Radiance’ continues the superb world building begun in ‘The Way of Kings’. The world of Roshar is further embellished by the continual expansion of its geography and history (both its recent past and ancient myths).Much like the first book, the bulk of the story is still concentrated around the civilisation of Alethkar and its people’s campaign upon the Shattered Plains. However, there are multiple teasing insights into other areas/states of Roshar that certainly leaves the reader wanting to learn more about these fascinating places and how they might eventually work into the greater story of ‘The Stormlight Archive’.As with ‘The Way of Kings’ this is somewhat slower in pace than the bulk of Sanderson’s work as it concentrates on creating an in depth and elaborate world. That’s not to say that ‘Words of Radiance’ doesn’t contain some fantastically written action sequences. The last hundred or so pages are particularly gripping, both in terms of action and in the revelations they provide.The division of the novel into two physical parts in the paperback edition is done at a somewhat better juncture than it was done in ‘The Way of Kings’. Although, it is still apparent that it is a forced rather than natural division, but that can’t really be helped.An absolutely entrancing and rewarding novel that, like its predecessor, I’m sure I’ll be re-reading once the final volume of the series is published.

This book is excellent. The difference of the world may put some readers off (it's not just magical, like Game of Thrones, the concepts here are extremely unique and irregular). The characters are excellently developed. The story is gripping and hints a lot of things to come.The only thing I'm nervous about is committing to a 10 book series where only the first two books have been written so far :-SIf you like Robin Hobb, George RR Martin, Robert Jordan or possibly Joe Abercrombie, you won't be disappointed in this.

I love this book. It picks up after some really interesting events in book one and takes the characters in directions both expected and unexpected. Every character is as well-written as in the previous novel, The Way of Kings, and the increasing tension made me want to keep reading. When I finished volume 1, I immediately started volume 2.

I really love this series. Personally its probably my favourite of Brandon sandersons series of books. I love how he writes and has these huge revelations and twists. This book is no exception, its fantastic. if you liked the way of kings then keep going, its great!

I think Sanderson is turning into one of the best fantasy writers of the decade. String stories that are character driven , and you actually care what happens to them.