Rhythm of War - REVIEW

[@DarthSideous63]

Brandon will finish book 10 of the Stormlight Archive before George RR Martin will finish The Winds of Winter.

[@johnsecheverell7824]

I think that is inevitable.

[@ShirleyTimple]

No doubt, Martin will never finish

[@colinborthwick9623]

And before Rothfuss finishes book 3.

[@rajdatta7454]

Who is Martin? Oh yeah, the meme author who kinda forgot about writing books he started some decades ago?

[@poppaexo]

Which is why I stopped caring

[@CabinCreekGames]

This makes me think book 5 is going to be an all out sanderlanche.

[@jonnybamberg5692]

Yeah, just the whole book starts with the lanche

[@Esteban-c1t]

It seems book 4 is more of a set up than it's own thing and that is not a bad thing. Just like Harry Potter 6 was

[@ZevaTayler]

Just one big lanche

[@jprec5174]

This is what’s going to happen guaranteed. This is the problem with these huge epic stories. You have to learn to accept the tedium and almost frivolous details and side arcs to get a better and more fulfilling ending. After reading oathbringer, I trust Sanderson can pull it off. I felt so crestfallen about 60% through it, but that last part woo boy. We don’t want a season 8 GoT on our hands do we?

[@henrywayne5724]

@@Esteban-c1t Harry Potter 6 is J.K.’s best book to date. While it was a setup, it was masterfully written such that there was a balance in the plot points. From Harry’s relationship with Ginny, then the horcruxes, finding out who the half blood prince is, what Draco Malfoy and Severus Snape were up to e.t.c. Plus, the ending of that book. I love how the way it ended broke the norms of he previous books, where it ended on a more somber note rather than Harry going back to the Durdleys. With this as a penultimate book, I hope it does the same.

[@Andy2kk]

I'm kinda happy that there is no "sanderlanche" at the end I think we needed a mellower ending to the book as you can have only so much action in a series, and I think that Brandon is saving up all the high intensity epic battles for the 5th book. This might be a setup for this last book of the first arc which kinda explains the low rating tbh.

[@samtrott776]

Snaps to that, and I’m so glad Daniel pointed it out. I love Sanderlanches, but they can be a lot sometimes and the last one felt so big that I got worried about how he’ll keep up. I’m excited for a very complex ending to this book.

[@Salvara]

Whats a sanderlanche lol

[@realyoriginalchanel3218]

He builds up tension for the whole book and is very slow and then has an extremely massive and fast pace finnaly in the last 75 pages

[@mrsirperson9656]

Funny how 7/10 is seen as a "low rating", that really speaks to how good Sanderson is as a writer

[@15nicinho]

When Eric from 17th shard reviewed the book he said there is a sanderlanche

[@austinmoore1113]

Smaller ending? Good. I was having trouble imagining how he could go bigger.

[@conormeehan.]

There will eventually be book 10

[@XanderWhat]

Clicked so fast, I didn’t even notice the Premiere label!

[@abhijithchalla]

Lol me too

[@FatCandyProduction]

Yes. This totally happened hahaha

[@sixseasonsandamoviee]

Holy shit, same!😂😂

[@saldeanfarmgirl7224]

Liked the video before it started

[@sanj9278]

Exact same! Lol

[@enescustef6154]

Not gonna lie, I'm encouraged by what Daniel didn't like that much, I don't think it will bother me. The negative parts of reviews are at least as useful as the positives, thanks Daniel for not being afraid to speak your mind honestly.

[@MILOPETIT]

So did you like it? I'm hesitant to read it seeing as Oathbringer took me about as long to read as the first two books combined. The bloat just seems like an increasing problem to me tbh

[@enescustef6154]

@@MILOPETIT i did like it, but less than oathbringer, which itself was less than either of the first 2. I do read all of sanderson's books though, so if you're on the fence about it maybe go for something you know you're more likely to enjoy

[@MILOPETIT]

@@enescustef6154 Ok yeah I did feel pretty much the same about Oathbringer, it just seems like the first one (which was already pretty stretched out) was the only one who didn't go into more sidequests than the main plot.

[@nabiladjemai583]

I hope we get to see Axies the collector again! More of the Aimien people overall. We got a strong introduction to them in Edgedancer, and since then I want to know more !

[@Boogalyhu]

Read Dawnshard when it comes out Tuesday! It’s set around Aimia.

[@MitchellD249]

Definitely read Dawnshard if you haven't already, way better than Edgedancer IMO and gives exactly what you're asking for here.

[@nabiladjemai583]

@@MitchellD249 I'm about to finish it. I was just hoping for more in my comment, not knowing what Dawnshard or ROW were going to be about, but Brandon answered my prayers and he didn't disappoint 😅

[@jackmcclish]

Tbh, as long as Kaladin and Navani both have strong arcs, this one is gonna be a win for me.

[@15nicinho]

This is pretty much how I feel

[@aghazi94]

Kaladin doesn't

[@argonexxcutter4192]

Abod Ghazi boy thata cap

[@aghazi94]

@@argonexxcutter4192 thats just my opinion, but then again SA to be slightly overrated and abit YA

[@annamackay1743]

I loved both their arcs

[@taojingwu6330]

The kaladin story in this book was so relatable and amazing. Wish more authors would approach mental illness in an honest and meaningful way

[@Visforelvenshireling]

You lucky son-of-a-gun! You got to read it first! Not that you don't deserve things like that. You've earned it. I'm just over here rereading my Oathbringer being jealous. Thanks for all the good content!

[@MrNickSmith1993]

Very well said.

[@TheSevatar]

x2! the hyyyype is real!

[@elessarbre]

I guess a lot of people are reading Oathbringer right now.

[@rearea260]

@@elessarbre you mean dawnshard

[@elessarbre]

@@rearea260 That too.

[@sam.s.g]

Yeah, the constatnt pov skipping in the later Stormlight books is one of my least favourite parts, especially when new characters are introduced. I just find caring about an ever-growing cast of characters much harder, as I just tend to get attached to the main characters and move on. On a different note, hearing that Kaladin gets so much page time makes me happy as he is definitely my favourite Stormlight charcters.

[@angryshenlong4502]

Kaladin is de bhest

[@samtrott776]

I totally agree and I’m worried about the growing cast of characters. We will have to see how this works cause I had issues with later ASOIAF books because of so much perspective skipping. I really like the way of kings method of just sticking to one to two characters, but the cast has grown to the point where you can’t do that. I definitely think Sanderson will deliver. However, I will definitely be more nit picky about that in This book than in oath bringer. Also Kaladin is fantastic.

[@kvothethearcane146]

Agreed, although Daniel mentioning that he takes a path some of the fans won't like or expect makes me a bit wary. My personal theory is that Kaladin doesn't swear the fourth oath in this book (which I believe most readers think he will), and his squires and fellow Bridge Four Windrunners will surpass him in that regard. Personally, I trust Daniel, and if he likes that character arc, I probably will too.

[@sam.s.g]

@@kvothethearcane146 SPOILERS BELOW That could actually be true. I don't know how I feel about that. I've been reading up to what's been out so far and I don't think the "non warrior path" fits him, like I just don't see him as a surgeon. I also didn't like the love triangle at the end of oathbringer (and I don't know how Daniel felt about that) but I hope the story doesn't disappoint because he's the main reason I read Stormlight.

[@kvothethearcane146]

@@sam.s.g I agree! SPOILERS: Kaladin ultimately is not a surgeon, I feel like that was really hammered home when he ultimately decided that even if a surgeon would "cut off an infected limb" but Kaladin, a Windrunner, would not let Elhokar die, even if he was a terrible king whose death would improve the lot of Alethkar. A surgeon acknowledges that they cannot save everyone, but Kaladin needs to save everyone - imo his fatal flaw.

[@jakesmith5713]

I read "Premieres in 23 years". Was thinking how and why then wow I'm stupid

[@Abundy]

You accidentally found the Kingkiller Book 3 review

[@Darthrocker06]

23 years is probably how long it would take me to physically read it. thank goodness for audible

[@priyankvora]

@@Abundy dang😂

[@ipodjockey2432]

Kaladin's struggles with depression were almost too real... It brought up a lot of difficult thoughts.

[@sammallory]

As someone who has hit rock bottom, it hit home. The message was crazy huge.

[@mihalitsinonis4498]

if Kaladin doesn't swear the fourth ideal, I'm going to be so mad.

[@CudiBuddy4Life]

I’m guessing he doesn’t until 5

[@benjaminwhitehead4050]

Do Windrunners have 4 or 5 ideals? if five imma guess he does, if not, IDK probably not

[@randalthor2859]

@@benjaminwhitehead4050 windrunners have 4

[@benjaminwhitehead4050]

@@randalthor2859 Okay good to know, thanks!

[@fluffypancakes7626]

@@benjaminwhitehead4050 nah, they have 5. The fifth is rarely attained though

[@danielwilliams9459]

So far based off reviews this seems to be exactly what I want it to be. I always like when previously major characters are pushed back to make room for previously smaller characters or even new characters. (For example my favourite ASOIAF book is A Feast for Crows and my favourite parts of Oathbringer were the bits with bridge 4 and the parshendi. I also really love the interludes in stormlight.) So yeah I'm very excited and this seems to be exactly what I was hoping for at this point in the story. I completely understand anyone who disagrees though this is entirely down to personal preference.

[@tomascanas9143]

Same, for me this is an hype review, as my favorite book is OB

[@lauralanier9806]

I totally agree! I was so excited when Dawnshard was announced as a Rysn POV novella because I love her as a side character, even though before OB we had only seen her twice. I love getting the perspective of smaller side characters.

[@izarscharf7845]

"Characters dropping out for 100s of pages" lol anyone whos read WoT is battle hardend against this

[@burgerpattie]

I’ve survived Moiraine’s imprisonment in the Tower of Ghenjei. I’m good.

[@izarscharf7845]

@@burgerpattie xD

[@aj2563]

@@burgerpattie lol facts

[@hatboxphahtom1262]

Don't worry we will have enough time to get attached to new characters, as we all know Stormligh 5 hardcover will be about 2-3 stories tall.

[@altoguy16499]

I wonder if the fact that this is, basically, the 4th part of a 5 part book might be causing some issues with the structure. Yes it's a standalone book, but in the overall structure of the Stormlight Archive, it's part 4 of 5 of the first half. So it's going to be a lot of rising action, a lot of set up, all setting up for what will happen in book 5 as the payoffs. Just my thoughts having only read throught the preview chapters and Dawnshard

[@Esteban-c1t]

Actually Brandon said in an update when he was writing/editing this book (they're like 8 or 9 updates so idk which one) that he was worried about this book bc the outline was a bit messy after finishing OB and we all know that Brando really likes having his books planned out. But as far as I know, he already has book 5 outlined and knows where he's wanting to go

[@mrsirperson9656]

It's kinda how people don't like Deathly Hallows Part 1 as much as Part 2, because it's a lot of setup in comparison to Part 2.

[@Esteban-c1t]

@@mrsirperson9656 and also depends on how the writer structured the keypoints of the series (and the audience taste). SPOILER FREE: - Anime/manga Fairy Tail (I recomend watching low expec), the penultimate arc was by far the best one and had a great set up for the final arc, desfortunately the last one was horrible. -Percy Jackson, first book was great and second slow (opposite as SA lol), third great again and darker, 4th was a step down but still great and 5th was awesome. - Lightbringer first was good, second even better, third even more, 4th meh and 5th meh. - Harry Potter 4th book, that is the middle point, is the peak of HP's quality (still my fav is 6th idkw) So it kinda depends a lot on how the autor structured the story. It seems Brandon really planned the ending (he even has the epilogue of book 5 done), but struggled a bit with the middle point (OB) and the point before the last (RoW). I trust him and I know this book is more of a set up like HP&TDH part 1 like you said and the last one will be great. Cmon, Brandon is great with endings. Even in RoW that seems to be the weakest entry, both merphy and daniel said the ending was great

[@Esteban-c1t]

@@mrsirperson9656 just noticed the post was long af, sorry

[@mrsirperson9656]

@@Esteban-c1t No Problem, I really like seeing people explain their points in detail and we have to keep in mind that even a "bad" Stormlight book is still an amazing book I have to keep reminding myself that a 7/10 on Daniel's scale means it's a really good book

[@mazerloop2650]

Just imagine if the whole fifth book was all sanderlanche set up by the forth and previous ones

[@angrybelial]

Everyone saying theres no sanderlanche really needs to read the damn book again. There most certainly is one and its hefty imo.

[@steft225]

I do think there's like a big sanderlanche in the middle that kinda dies down after a bit and another smaller wave towards the end... the momentum does slow down quite a bit.

[@noahcaelum6796]

Book 5 is the Sanderlanch

[@paragon1782]

Yeah the end of the book was crazy. It was just emotionally crazy and not "battle crazy"

[@carlosperezdelema]

I don't know, I fell in love with Venli in Oathbringer, and I liked the chapters on her Brandon released. So I think I'm going to enjoy this book more than you.

[@esbuenodun]

Adolin's arc is INCREDIBLE! Could not disagree more.

[@blakecurry3880]

Agreed!

[@chasebedwell1751]

Wait wait wait .... the ending isn't an avalanche but is more like book 12 of The Wheel of Time? VEINS OF GOLD!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@lauralanier9806]

@CallMe Sherlock that chapter still gets me, even years after reading it for the first time. It's so poignant!

[@rjcripe]

"Largest currently ongoing fantasy series." RIP ASoIaF.

[@tanavast7337]

That is because it is not even being written lol.

[@nityamjain1561]

Dude asoiaf is still unparalled

[@ProvidenceNL]

@@nityamjain1561 No its not, not by a long shot. If there had more more than 0 books in the last 8 years maybe, but its been overtaken.

[@nityamjain1561]

@@ProvidenceNL dude its coming next year ,grrm has already written 3000 manuscript pages its gonna be epic and will surely overtake whichever series u find better.

[@heraldofmorning3219]

@@nityamjain1561 not necessarily. The hype for ASoIaF has died down currently, and comparatively, it’s nowhere near the hype the SA has received these past years, especially since the show ended and killed a lot of hype, I feel. Sure, maybe the hype will pick up when the new book comes out, but that’s assuming it’s good. I’d actually compare it to the Kingkiller Chronicles, where fans have just stopped hyping and have kinda gotten fed up. Not to the same extent. But undoubtedly, ASoIaF hasn’t been on the scene, like at all, and there hasn’t been hype for it.

[@ScottCaslow]

I LOVE how you have spoiler-free and spoiler-filled segments. In general, it's great to finish a book and come to a video where you talk about some highlights and what you liked.

[@ninnusridhar]

I appreciate what sando did to kaladin in chapter 18. For a person like kaladin that is really a healthy choice

[@DoublexCoke]

One of my favorite things of this series so far SPOILERS Dalinar: has THE LITTERAL STORM FATHER Ardents: no no no no no you'r a heretic and everything you do including your marriage is illegitimate XD

[@alek2913]

It is not a spoiler for me but you should force the spoiler to only be showed if you hit more. It is just courteous.

[@DoublexCoke]

@@alek2913 fixed thank you didn't realize it wasn't fully under the read more

[@alek2913]

@@DoublexCoke Yup was not sure. Just did not want anyone to get spoiled by that. I know there are a lot of people who are reading through SA right now because of Daniel and in the comments.

[@mulleriomalario5364]

The problem with Stormlight is that the amount of characters that deserve more pagetime is so high, it's almost impossible to be satisfied with the end product and that is something i am prepared since having the same kind of disappointment when reading Oathbringer. I am also very jealous of you right now for getting to read it early.

[@jonathonwhitington402]

My biggest issue with Oathbringer was definitely the pacing. I'm not exactly thrilled to find out that it's going to be an issue this time around too. But I know that I'll still really enjoy the book. Only 10 days to go!

[@mohithkumar5158]

I can’t wait for this book to come out.

[@agustinpino3683]

I just want to say that the first time that I read oathbringer I fell it very confusing and don't like it as much, BUT when I read it for second time I fell kind of stupid for thinking it was confusing and The second time I notice a lot more details that is what I like the most

[@mccrme]

I'm only about 200 pages in, but I've been enjoying the parts focusing on the newer characters the most. I love our big 3 of Dalinar, Shallan, and Kaladin but we've spent plenty of time with them already and it feels like whatever is left to tell of their stories is probably best saved for book 5.

[@re1fu]

okay, im just gonna say: sequels can never get better and better forever, there will come a time that its worse than the last, or cannot live up to the last one, or whatever., we just have to believe/support whatever books come out long enough for the next book to come out., ;) ;)

[@gabsrendon7920]

I get what you’re saying and I would agree but I’m sure that won’t be an issue. Brandon Sanderson knows when to stop writing

[@Lurklen]

I think this is a good point, and also brings up that in a series, each book while needing to be a good read on its own, is really just a chapter in an ongoing narrative. If you couldn't just pick the book up absent reading the preceding books, than it shouldn't be judged as good or bad, so much as stronger or weaker parts of the narrative. (I mean unless the qualitative aspects are actually hugely divergent, as in the writing suddenly becomes worse, or something like that) Because book four or five in a series, is never going to stand as tall as book one or two, it's not really that books job to do so, it's just bearing the load of the story to progress it through the series. By that point the over arching story is going through high and low notes, and each book is just going to fall somewhere on the spectrum. We don't generally judge each chapter by the preceding and succeeding ones in a story (you can of course, but it's kind of pointless unless you're doing a close examination of the structure of the book) because we know that each chapter is just a building block in the narrative, and that there are stronger and weaker chapters, which are more or less important. We kind of forget that when we look at a series of books (especially a long one). We won't really be able to judge if this book did it's job (or how well) until we finish the song (to stretch a metaphor) and see how it fits into the arcs and rhythms of the complete work.

[@james35813]

Reading the early release chapters, and without getting into spoilers for Oathbringer or RoW, I think I really like where Kaladin is going. Daniel is right when he says a lot of people won't tho.

[@JKWuco]

Haha bothered by characters dropping for a long time. Can't be worse than Perrin Aybarra.

[@kalshal4ever987]

I just finished book 6 and starting book 7. I hope Perrin comes back now 😢, it’s been two books so far without him really

[@slipping4415]

Yeah you only really get back to his plot line in like book 10 I’m pretty sure

[@slipping4415]

And his plotline is only really good in like books 13-14

[@Hoffmanniac]

Or the entire cast of Malazan in book five.

[@JKWuco]

@@kalshal4ever987 He comes back but...like, don't expect much until book 11 or 12 now that you're past the (excellent) return to Two Rivers.

[@assidbath94]

hot damn....getting really close to a quarter million subs man....big grats, love your channel, started watching a number of years ago while i was reading wheel of time books when i was looking for vids discussing the lore and whatnot. very happy to have found your channel.

[@sentient.ball.of.stardust]

Well we all kinda already know this book is gonna be amazing...

[@oscarchavezavellan2738]

@momarist Opinions my friend, learn to respect them and don't be a jerk

[@duvul1562]

It wasnt lol,the writing was shit

[@collinwillsey354]

Navani has been one of my favs since WOR. More brilliant than Jasnah with none of her arrogance and condescension, with a quiet authority about her. Awesome to her full potential realized here.

[@carlwilliams9642]

Daniel's most anticipated review ever?

[@jester42100]

I like that Bob is guarding your Butcher section :)

[@dx7r]

Yeah I agree with the take on Shallan's arc. Ever since book 2 I keep getting this feeling we will eventually get some Kaladin-esque level character arc for her and I was actually hoping we would get that in this book but her arc felt surprisingly subdued to me.

[@christyrann7739]

I find her arc a whole lot more interesting than Kaladin. Still like his arc aswell but 🤷‍♂️

[@reallynotkaladin9964]

I wish book 5 be about Szeth. We have gotten so little of him in the series so far.

[@EE12345]

Szeth is actually the main flashback character in book 5

[@reallynotkaladin9964]

@@EE12345 That is very good hear. Thanks fellow radiant

[@charlespeter5610]

You and Merph have convinced me to read R.F. Kuang's latest book first. Thanks for the review!

[@KrakenCasting]

I was one of the betas and I really struggled with this book. I'm really hoping the final product has changed from the draft I read. I agree with a lot of what Dan says, and we'd probably have a lot more to agree on if we could get into spoiler territory.

[@henrywayne5724]

Whoa, you were one of the betas? Lucky. Anyway, the pacing issues were GLARING when I was reading Part 3 of Oathbringer. For the first time ever, the book truly FELT like a 1200 page book when with the others, I was hooked all the way through. I really hoped the pacing issues would be resolved in ROW with the way Part 1 was incredibly fast paced(I’ve only read the first six chapters btw) but from most of the reviews I’ve watched, pacing seems to be a huge problem where attention is given to less important issues and other bigger issues just don’t have enough page time. Still hyped up for it though.

[@KrakenCasting]

@@henrywayne5724 I can't say a whole lot until release day, but pacing was a major issue we talked about during the beta. I felt the same way, that there were definite periods of mental fatigue because the pacing was so slow. I hope he's fixed some of it in the final product, but it sounds like maybe not.

[@TexasChainsawManager]

I forgot how much I like Szeth until you casually mentioned his lines

[@akap]

I always have kind of an issue with the comparison between a book's function in a continuous series and it's enjoyability/strength/etc as a standalone experience, i.e. "as it's own book," because it isn't it's own book. It's printed with its own cover and its own back blurb and its own quotes but especially in the case of Brandon's books, it's the next chapter in a saga. Does each chapter in a book have to be engaging on its own? Yes, but even many engaging chapters don't "stand on their own," because it's nonsensical to read only chapter 120 of Oathbringer without any context. it's an incredible chapter, but "on its own" it's the ramblings of a lunatic... because it's so heavily couched in the rest of the story. So, though I have obviously not read RoW, I have heard that same criticism leveled by many people at many books, and it strikes me as sort of nonsense, even though I know it's trying to articulate some actual aspect of the reading experience.

[@Monkixote]

This is a terrible argument. You'd be a pretty terrible author if you just completely decided to ignore the inherent consequences of how your work is consumed. I mean we all know pretty well that Brandon himself structures individual books specifically to be enjoyed in his signature arc. Maybe what you're saying would be valid if Sanderson had decided to only publish all five books in this first arc as one volume, internally divided into 5 'books' the same way Dune is. But the fact of the matter is that he chose to release it one book at a time, knowing that for a large portion of readers, it would be a while until they would be able to read the next one. How are you even meant to evaluate a book solely based on its function in a continuous series if the rest of the series has yet to be released? Does that mean it shouldn't be evaluated at all until the entire series is done? Should Daniel not have made a video at all? Books in a series are for the most part consumed piecemeal. Anything that has a beginning and an end can and unavoidably will be evaluated on its own merit. Even in the example of Chapter 120 that you mentioned, sure it's the ramblings of a madman, but it's still designed to have a beginning, middle, and an end, that separates it into an individual unit distinct from the rest of the whole. Otherwise how would questions like 'what was your favorite chapter?' come to be? It's not nonsense, it's just conveying information that's actually valuable as far as it applies to the real life reading habits of people who are going to be reading this book.

[@reagame8700]

@@Monkixote Hmm. I'm going to go with you are both right. Just combine what you're saying and all's well.

[@itaygeva663]

Yes and no. TL;DR: a middle book can’t be just filler. Of course a fourth book in a series cannot be read as a stand-alone, and thus ‘is not a book in its own right’. But I have to stress a point that a book (usually a middle one) in a series cannot serve solely to further the overall plot. If it did just that, then the series is structured poorly. When I read a book I’d expect it to have a story in it, and not just filler. There’s a reason there’s a syndrome called “the middle book syndrome”. In fact, the best examples I can find to do a sequel right is Brandon’s books like the mistborn trilogy and words of radiance. After the first mistborn book I was like “what? They won in the first book?? What happens now?” And the second book seemed to address that issue and expand the lore wire having a complete narrative on its own. I guess we’ll have to wait and see, but I’m still very excited for this book.

[@Tent316]

I think I speak for everyone when I say "What about Lopen and his cousins!!!!!!!?"

[@JacesSanctum]

Finally a Stormlight review where Daniel doesn't talk about Kal being superman lol

[@themallenman]

For all the criticism this book gets, I loved it. I don't know where I place it among the other SA books, but I am certain that its not a step down for me. While everyone is entitled to their own opinion, one thing that Sanderson did NOT get enough credit on was the opening. That was some serious en medias res, that reminded me of the way Star Wars ep III opened. While that movie is heavily flawed, go back and rewatch the first 20 minutes, its near perfection, much like the opening here. We get an immediate highlight reel of all of the most entertaining qualities of Kaladin, Dalinar and Shallan, and it sets them all up so well for their arcs in the remainder of the book. Edit to Add: Also, while the flashbacks in this one weren't quite as strong overall as previous books, the payoff in the final one was as good as they've ever been.

[@devonstrachan3658]

I liked words of radiance. Oathbringer ejected me. And i think you're saying the structure and the pacing are the same as that... Yeah imma head out. Back to waiting on doors of stone.

[@alexnieves]

Definitely sounds like there is a bit of up and down in this one but I'm very excited to get further into it. I've enjoyed the first 18 chapters so far but it hasn't blown me away. I was nervous that this may be a big setup book for the conclusion in book 5, but hopefully it doesn't feel like that.

[@selinana29]

Shallan is one of my favorite characters, and I’ve really been wanting more page time for her while reading the early chapters. The book got off to a really great start, but the pacing got clunkier as I kept reading, I can see how a lot of this review applies to what’s already been released. I’m still very excited, and I expect I’ll be pleased with it.

[@sastersbroth8117]

As Sanderson says in his classes, there will always be different tastes, and when he receives comments from his beta readers he mentions "I will not write what you want but what I want to convey in my story, I will take into account your comments but I must separate both things "(it doesn't say that exactly but in short it does), so everything is subjective. So there is no problem in giving an opinion. I liked your video, only that reading forum comments, it saddens me that there are people who mention "thanks to those reviews (Merphy and you) I saved money on not spending on a bad book (I know they don't say that in their reviews but some people interpret it that way, perhaps because of the note that even surprised me) "without even giving the book a chance, I repeat, it's sad to not have a personal opinion. Just to add Sanderson had already mentioned that the structure would be different in the fourth book, perhaps it would be more similar to the first and that it was intentional since there will be 10 books and what he is building is immense, in addition to not being so focused on certain characters It is understandable since they already had a book to develop (if they are one of the main 3 and I think you mean them) and going to the background is not bad if you develop other characters that would be fundamental and relevant later, which remembering will be 10 books they have to "ration" in some way also of course that the fifth book, I hope, is the goal of so much preparation in previous books. Peace

[@Newfiecat]

I think it's quite possible that the people who say they're not going to buy the book because of these reviews will change their minds if the book gets a lot of acclaim from fans after it comes out. I find it kind of weird that Daniel's and Merphy's reviews were taken as negative when they both had plenty of positive things to say.

[@ioannisladis]

If someone saw this review and thought this was a "bad" book that should not be read, they did not actually watch the video. Criticisms can be levelled om every bood and should be. WoT, Lotr and Harry Potter all have valid criticisms throughout their sagas. Does not stop them from being solid bools and masterpiece level fantasy epics.

[@rohit_7777]

I gotta say. I'm falling out of Shalaans arc. Her multiple personality disorder seems too forced to me. Navaani on the other hand has become my top 3 at this point. Kaladin as always is the 🐐

[@lukasa6374]

Great review Daniel! Something Im really missing though is when back in the day you rated each part of the novel, that is giving character work, plot etc a grade each

[@liamsaban1311]

I've only read the released chapters so far, but I definitely feel you on the Parshendi POV sections. It's like, yeah, cool, we get to see what they're up to, but I care so much more about the humans that any Parshendi POV is going to drag for me.

[@david.armstrong]

This was my favorite book in the series

[@hurstohardunkinshud5208]

To enjoy shallan’s arc in the first 18 chapters, I had to let the chapters breathe, being extra thoughtful and patient. I thought she had her own unique, personal shine. I get a sense for what you’re saying, and the trajectory this book could take, leaving you to desire more... indeed, I wonder how he’s gonna tie it up in book 5, or if he’ll feel the need to spend a 6th volume with these characters. However, you get what you get.. he pours his heart into these characters, so there is enough beauty in the story to warm your heart and comfort you, not enough to dwell upon and devour. That’s something I first sensed in the show community, then even more-so in avatar the last airbender- the story is not necessarily an ocean, but it’s enough for you to dive into and have a relationship with; all good things come to an end, but they live on in our hearts and our lives.

[@lauraoart]

Kaladin is my favorite character. And if your favorite character is Kaladin, you *will* love this book. SPOILER ZONE I hate to admit it but I think his decision in the end is the most realistic and beneficial one. And in the end I’d rather see a happy surgeon rather than a broken soldier. I doubt he will never fight again. That’s part of who he is. He will protect those who cannot protect themselves, and if he has to fight he will do so. It’s the oath he took. But at the same time I am excited even if he never picks up a spear again. He wants to reform the mental health care system, and I feel like that is such a significant thing. He will be saving thousands of people, doing so much, even without a spear. And in the end he tells his dad he will save people his own way. Kaladin says never fighting back seems right in his head but not in his heart. This is why I think he’s not going to give up fighting entirely. But he will at /least/ take a good break from it. And this I fully support. Even if I might miss his epic fighting. It’s hard to accept this but once you do it’s so *satisfying*.And it’s what made me cry when he swore the 4th ideal. Made me cry from happiness. As of right now, having just finished the book, it is my favorite solely based on the fact that it has done so much for Kaladin. I cried 4 times reading it, threw it at the wall at some point and cursed at Moash like a sailor, and it was all incredibly fun. And also Navani’s pov was perfection and the music theory and science of it all absolutely blew. My. Mind. The world-building is *insanely* well done. And Moash remains the storming personification of a cancerous anal discharge.

[@janeh9962]

love & agree with all of this !!!!

[@Drewcey]

I also love and agree with all of this!

[@sammallory]

100% agree and well said.

[@toastedmarshmallows6348]

I second all that you said. And you described moash perfectly!

[@dailycarolina.]

I first saw Merphy's, now watching Daniel's, next Elliot's .

[@geryrrs]

SAME

[@anedgedancer5147]

Reverse order for me!

[@vaporiiz]

da big 3

[@kmolnardaniel]

Hey Daniel, do a longer, spoiler review please! Or do a live chat with the fans! It would be so cool to discuss the book more.

[@00kikko]

Ehi Daniel, first of all kudos for your channel. You are a great entertainer and always keep a very intelligent position without shying away from taking position. Nice work. I am a Sanderson fan and I love your reviews and perspective on his books, on Rhythm of War though I do not agree on the pacing remarks you have made. It is true that some characters should have needed more page time and their arc feels a bit "rushed" - although coming - but the pace of the book itself I thought it was very enjoyable and slightly better then Oathbringer (which I loved btw, im one of those) mainly in part 3 and 4. I agree with all the props you highlighted though, new povs, new characters, MINDBLOWING world-building. I also want to really suggest to listen to the Audiobook if you can. Kate and Michael are true artists and we all know it but I felt this one was THE best audiobook so far for Stormlight. Highly recommended.

[@arshgrewal9487]

Even if the review is bad I’m still buying it no doubt no doubt no doubt

[@lilwinchester1417]

I have to admit I'm glad that other characters will get more spotlight. I like Shallan, but I want to know more about Seth, Renarin, Teft, Lopen, Azure etc I loved their viewpoints the most in Oathbringer

[@Stormcrownn]

This book was such an improvement over Oathbringer for me. I find myself heavily disagreeing about this book being bloated.

[@sheyri9]

I really, really loved Kaladin's story in this. It was a bit unexpected at first, and I was worried on Kal's behalf, but it turned out so, so well. Shallan, hm. I liked her development. But then this big thing happened, and then we only get half a chapter with her after that. It's just, what happened after that? I would've appreciated more page time for her there. So much seemed to have happened between the big thing and her next chapter, but we barely see any of it.

[@Warintello]

After reading Malazan the cast shift is likely a non issue for me. Looking forward to it. WoT did it too to a degree.

[@legere_with_hope]

Awesome, Thanks Daniel! I can't wait to read it. Now off to read chapter 18! I wish there were more preview chapters left!

[@thedanielhicks]

Newer viewer here: I've had doubts that Mr. Greene might be biased when reviewing authors he has had on his channel. I just thought it might be a conflict of interest. So it was a reassuring seeing him not afraid to lay some criticisms on Sanderson's newest book. Well done, one new viewer has more faith in your unbiasedness.

[@walternate2914]

Thanks for an honest review. I appreciate that you are a true Sanderson fan, but not just giving it blind praise. Looking forward to finishing the book. Have really enjoyed the early chapters released.

[@Shapeology]

Man, this is probably my second favourite SA book after Words of Radiance! It was almost perfect. Maybe some of the flashbacks weren't that interesting, but everything else was just a blast to read. I couldn't stop reading. Everyone had pretty strong arcs in this book. I began to like Venli a lot, Kaladin's battle with depression and PTSD was so relatable; I really enjoyed all the science behind the fabrials and lights and Navani suddenly became one of my favourite characters; the villains were superb; Adolin and Shallan' s journey was super interesting; Teft's story gave me the feels, all the Cosmere references made me want to buy every other book that is connected to it, and I hate Taravangian even more. The SA books are my first Sanderson books, to be fair. I heard good stuff about the Mistborn series and I'm planning on buying them next, because I just need more Sanderson stuff now and I'm dying to learn more of the Cosmere. That's Fantasy at its highest!

[@n0zenzur]

We got from the parshendy side in the last two books. It's not that Venly and Ashonai are completely new. So it is not "late in the game"

[@ShinyuM]

Rhythm of War sounds basically like the typical book 2 in a trilogy. I don't mind. Gets me even more excited for book 5.

[@RagamuffinGunner13]

Sounds like my fears for this book were somewhat justified (too much focus on the Parshendi characters - who I'm less interested in - and less on the fan faves). Hopefully it doesn't stray too far into A Feast for Crows or mid-Wheel of Time syndrome.

[@MeMySkirtandI]

Uhh, it can't be as meandering as A Feast for Crows. All I remember was Brienne wandering in the mud for a hundred pages (or so it felt). Roshar, fortunately, doesn't have mud. Since I'm not too attached to Shallan, it doesn't sound like its going to bother me too much, but it might annoy others.

[@ryanjamesloyd6733]

So on Kaladin- I'm not far in yet, but a thing I'm appreciating is... Kaladin is Broken. That he's not just shrugging off what amounts to PTSD and a rather accurate account of chronic Depression (which I am intimately familiar with). I'm going to give his struggle early in the book the "Yeah, that's realistic" stamp of approval. Shalan as well. These sorts of deep damage, are not something one should get over in a book or two. It doesn't work that way. I dunno, I was just struck by it. Maybe because I know it from the inside. It's well done.

[@feliperodriguezmunoz8155]

Awespren showed around me when I saw the thumbnail

[@fletchergillespie3242]

you make it sound like the feast/dance of stormlight, and I don't really mind that tbh

[@fabriciorosso9807]

Those are great books tbh, very underrated, so I expect to like this one.

[@rahmahmeligy8033]

Planning on reading the stormlight archive series and wanted to see how well the books progress and pay off, thanks for the spoiler free review!

[@CudiBuddy4Life]

5th novel.... I understand that I must sacrifice my life...to protect all who remain

[@henrywayne5724]

No! No! Don't you DARE SAY that. I am NOT having Kaladin DIE!

[@CudiBuddy4Life]

@@henrywayne5724 the ultimate hero. He’s had such a beautiful arc, it seems that it ends in the first half through sacrifice, or acceptance of a power that carries into the next half (imo). I hope I’m wrong with his death but I don’t see it stopping his influence in the end

[@henrywayne5724]

@@CudiBuddy4Life I can actually see it happening that way, part of me really doesn’t want Kaladin to die but another part of me knows that that is probably the road we will be going with him, considering how he wrapped up Mistborn. But I know that when Kaladin goes, it won’t just be in a lazy way, it’s gonna be an epic finale.

[@CudiBuddy4Life]

@@henrywayne5724 I agree whole heartedly; he’s got a “true way” (Brando) of letting his characters go. A proper completion of arcs. Kaladin’s passing would never go in vain, wait....(ooof....unless he comes back through pure will, oh shit, his commitment keeps him tied to investiture...I uh, brain hurts...I...predictions begin anew. He’s not dead....here to help)...windows shutting down noises

[@nicholaslee5885]

“If you don’t wanna know who lived, get OUT” THANK YOU Daniel for respecting your audience!!!

[@benjaminford4967]

I've been listening to the released audio chapters on KZbin! Brilliant advertising technique to get you to buy the next book. I wish I had the book to read. Very jealous.

[@bluerectangle5794]

You will be able to soon enough, Radiant.

[@allmightykingrhythm9949]

"5:12" as a one piece fan i couldn't care less as long as what is shown is interesting and relevant

[@davidjohnson6665]

From the sounds of it, I think Sanderson is holding back on character resolutions until book 5.

[@Calebgoblin]

I'm glad I could walk out of the theater from Merph's review right down the hall to yours

[@reflexjat3822]

From what i’ve heard so far, i think RoW will be my favorite

[@earapp4102]

The Way of Kings: 9.5/10 Words of Radiance: 8/10 Oathbringer: 9/10 Rhythm of War: 7/10 Overall Series Score: 8.375/10 Grade: B, signifies levels of solid accomplishment and goodness

[@jprec5174]

Switch the scores for WoR and oath-bringer and you right

[@earapp4102]

@@jprec5174 I was just documenting Daniel's past scores for the other books in the series to get a gauge on how he feels about Stormlight overall. These aren't my own scores.

[@Kiki-oo3bw]

Shallan is my favourite character, I'm lowkey mad that we won't see her as much 😭

[@jimmyeatsom3375]

Cant wait to get my hands on this book. I think it is one of those that once all 5 are out and you re-read the whole series in one sitting without the need to wait 2 years for the next entry, then it will all feel more natural.

[@rkxproductions]

I really liked this book, I respect your views, but personally, that score is way too low.

[@sammallory]

Agreed

[@Jrdn357]

Summary of this video: As a book, Rhythm of War is a 100000000000/10. As a Stormlight entry, it's a 7/10.

[@mukeka1337]

That's the opposite of what he said. He said it propels stormlight as a whole well but doesn't stand as well on it's own.

[@Jrdn357]

@@mukeka1337 What I meant is that it is a godly book, better than most out there, but isn't as good as earlier entries in stormlight, which are even better. Exactly the same as Oathbringer. It's amazing, just not quite as good as the earlier books.

[@mukeka1337]

@@Jrdn357 Sorry, I misunderstood.

[@sanin3213]

Wish I could enjoy these as much as you guys do

[@Robert-lm3hm]

Daniel. You fundamentally misunderstood hardcover book durability and now you got a bunch of elitist paperback fools who don’t understand that you remove the dust jacket before using a hardcover book! Hardcover you can just shove into a stuffed backpack without having to worry. Can you do that with paperback? Noooooo #hardcovergang

[@elisa_740]

#hardcovergangforevah

[@austinmorey6744]

With you all the way brother #hardcoverganggang

[@mrsirperson9656]

From my experience you can't just shove a hardcover into a backpack, I like my hardcovers to be crisp and shoving them into a backpack will damage it; with a paperback I don't care about that but I am still #hardcovergang

[@n0zenzur]

I just make the paper back into hard cover. So i habe hatd cover and picture on the cover itself.

[@Ravi9A]

...there was a debate against hard covers ?

[@hannahwooldridge2622]

Dang that felt like such a solid review. Your level of analysis has increased so much form when I first started watching you. Job well done!

[@Nick.Georgiev]

Haven't read it yet but it should be no surprise that Sanderson can make you love a character that was only meh. Remember Steris in Mistborn Era 2? Book 1: Meh, whatever. Book 3: IF ANYTHING HAPPENED TO HER, I WOULD KILL EVERYONE IN THE ELENDEL BASIN AND THEN MYSELF.

[@Ravi9A]

Ah, another man of culture.

[@raidermudder]

Oh lord, I busted out laughing at the Storm Pants!

[@czar1109]

Didn't he say in his previous video that a review lower than 5 will be coming soon!? PLS NO!

[@lordofdarkness4204]

Oh no I didn’t put the two and two together... Oh no please don’t be bad...

[@aryanagarwal7198]

Dang now I am afraid

[@addisonsmith4727]

Considering what we’ve got so far of the first 18 chapters I would be shocked if this was the case not to mention Brandon would have really had to slip along with his editors and beta readers

[@milospollonia1121]

Oh no no no no NOOOOOOOO

[@abhijithchalla]

Nahhh .. I don’t see that happening if the first 18 chapters that were released are anything to go by

[@MindShackleFilms]

As long as Szeth is a main storyline i'm in. Every time I saw his name in the first page of a new chapter I was giddy. Such an amazing character / storyline. ( I didn't watch the 'Spoilerish' section so if he mentioned it I didn't see that.)

[@lilwinchester1417]

Yes! I need more of him and his sword-nimi

[@Osiris623]

I hear you on pacing and structure. In Oathbringer there were a few things that I thought should have been a much bigger deal when they were *finally* revealed, but even if the structure isn't as great as I would like, the meat of the story is so good that it makes up for all of that. Sanderson is providing the material for what will be the best TV show ever.

[@thehubbabubba667]

Roshar isn't a kingdom though, it's a continent. Alethkar is the kingdom.

[@xinythi]

It's also the planet's name

[@lathspell87]

I found it boring and similar to Elantris. I had to read through an entire book to finally get to the piece I knew was coming. Definitely my least favorite of the series.