Words of Radiance, the second book in Brandon Sanderson's The Stormlight Archive, follows characters Kaladin, Shallan, and Dalinar as they confront the Voidbringers and face internal and external political intrigue, uncovering ancient secrets and powers in the process. Some scenes depict violence and trauma, including depictions of slavery and assassination.

Words of Radiance by Brandon Sanderson is praised for its intricate world-building, complex character development, and engaging plot twists. Readers appreciate the deep exploration of themes and well-paced action. Criticisms include occasional pacing issues and the book's length, which some find daunting. Overall, it is considered a compelling continuation of the series.

A reader who enjoys complex world-building, epic battles, and intricate character development would relish Words of Radiance by Brandon Sanderson. Comparable to George R.R. Martin's A Game of Thrones and Robert Jordan's The Eye of the World, it appeals to fans of high fantasy with rich lore and multi-layered plots.

Adventurous / Suspenseful / Emotional / Inspirational / Fantastical

- Words of Radiance is the second book in Brandon Sanderson's acclaimed Stormlight Archive series, known for its intricate world-building and complex magic system based on "Stormlight" and "Surgebinding."
- The book features interludes, a storytelling technique Sanderson uses to explore different perspectives and locations across the world of Roshar, expanding the scope and depth of the series beyond the main narrative.
- The release of Words of Radiance was a major publishing event, debuting at number one on The New York Times Best Seller list for Hardcover Fiction in March 2014.

Brandon Sanderson

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Words of Radiance reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Words of Radiance | SuperSummary

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Overview

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Words of Radiance Summary

Background

Words of Radiance Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Alight”

Prologue-Part 1

Words of Radiance Prologue-Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Wind’s Approach”

Part 2 Words of Radiance Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Deadly”

Part 3, Chapters 35-51

Words of Radiance Part 3, Chapters 35-51 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapter 52-Interlude 11

Words of Radiance Part 3, Chapter 52-Interlude 11 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Approach”

Part 4 Words of Radiance Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Winds Alight”

Part 5-Epilogue

Words of Radiance Part 5-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Words of Radiance Character Analysis

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Themes

Words of Radiance Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Words of Radiance Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Words of Radiance Important Quotes with Page Numbers

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Essay Topics

Words of Radiance Essay Topics

Words of Radiance

Before You Read

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