Rhythm of War SPOILERS Review!

My spoiler filled review of Rhythm of War by Brandon Sanderson!
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[@DanielGreeneReviews]

How is you doing?

[@wiebertjeen]

What did you think of the ending of the Dark Tower?

[@zerozaku1468]

Solid Captain. Hbu?

[@Nasser851000]

I is doing fine Thank very much You Greene XD

[@MrNickSmith1993]

Havent finished the video so not sure if you answer this but who is your favourite character of SA?

[@lordj3793]

Roshar check this out by invicta kzbin.info/www/bejne/rn2XfmqPrZWGiac

[@Joy-iv8ko]

The epilogue honestly scared me more than anything that happened in the whole book. Like idk I’ve always seen Wit/Hoid as a mysterious and sort of omniscient character and the fact that T-Odium “took” his memories has frightening implications for the future books

[@Poppacap79]

That shit made me angry.

[@DanKxxx]

He took enough breaths to put him below perfect pitch which was his mistake. Hoid noticed this, so I believe he is going to be able to know something isn't right. He also appears in other books set in the future where he is fine so we know he isn't going to loose too much.

[@scooterdaniel1218]

@@DanKxxx What books take place in the future? I've read all of sanderson and still am confused on the timeline between series.

[@DanKxxx]

@@scooterdaniel1218 mistborn era 2 is around book 5 6 of stormlight and sixth of dusk is likely even further in the future.

[@thomassullivan9407]

I know this is late, but I'm pretty sure the memories weren't "taken", they were "deleted", which I think could be an important distinction.

[@fuguefire1886]

"Journey before destination, you bastard!" is my FAVORITE line in this book!!

[@naraoia4450]

Oh yes. GIFs of wild fist pumping might have been sent to friends when I read that.

[@stranger81288]

F moash

[@CoolHandLuke7]

Good mirror of the “Bridge Four, you bastard!” moment from Oathbringer

[@naraoia4450]

@@stranger81288 Always and forever.

[@fleurdelispens]

Yes. All the yes. Most satisfying line I've read in a long time

[@libraryoffantasy]

I think Adolin's relationship with Maya was developed really well, just much more subtly than most. You can go all the way back to where he speaks to her before his duels and such. The respect he has shown his Blade since he received it created the bond that allowed her to regain some form of consciousness. I thought that was really cool.

[@eliasbischoff176]

(please excuse my passionate ranting) It was actually my second favourite part of the book. It feels like the culmination of his development. He starts out arrogant but charismatic, with hints towards a deeper goodness (like when he defended the darkeyed woman in book one. Over time, as his fighting gets outpaced by far by the radiants, he finds himself losing what he thought was his calling (as was shown in conversations with ardents in book 1 I think). At the same time through his relationship/marriage to Shallan and his friendship with Kalladin, probably the revelations about his father, he realizes his true strength was being there for people. He probably first learned that by having to defend Renarin from Bullies. His relationship with Maya could be seen as the ultimate test of his virtue and patience, not making any progress for a long time, constantly being told by everyone that he is a fool for even trying. While probably being a little questionable if applied to real life, the fact that he gets rewarded for that makes a lot of narrative sense.

[@melissalarochelle689]

💯 to all of this! I think the subtleties of his personality, compassion, love for his friends (who are all mental 😂), strength as a warrior/fighter, his comparing himself to the radiants all around him, deeper angry and love for his father, list lists goes on and on, was all perfect. I’m interested to see where this goes in the next book. I feel like those moments of anger towards his father with some foreshadowing of what may come.

[@Andy2kk]

Kaladin's arc had me in tears

[@Berend95]

Same

[@darmokandjalad7786]

Kal’s fourth ideal had everybody crying I think

[@sarahgreer5111]

I see your picture there, very nice :)

[@jonathangeorge787]

Truth, I was a sobbing mess! And I'm glad I'm not the only one.

[@mehazc]

Moments actually broke me so hard

[@davidsamuel5376]

Your Adolin criticism is amusingly his biggest insecurity-feeling unimportant and just being an extension to others, he’s struggling to fit in into a world which has left him feeling without purpose. I found that very interesting, and am looking forward to see how Brandon handles that.

[@Voxil42]

Yeah. I think Adolin not even truly achieving this goal (but still kinda) was very much done on purpose. Critics like to rag on him for being 'perfect' but... he's not, he's useless, and how is he going to handle never really being the hero he always assumed he would be.

[@JoshLangowells]

The part of Adolin's arc that I enjoy in this book is his "well I'm not a radiant so I'm kind of useless... what do I do now?" moments. His fight against the Tukari in Shadesmar was a highlight for me for that reason as a place to explore his value in a situation where radiant advantages are negated. I wanted more of that though - I couldn't help thinking that having Adolin still in Urithiru and have him be the person who holds things together when the Radiants fall would have been more compelling for me. By comparison, having him as a diplomat in Lasting Integrity felt our of place, as by all rights he _shouldn't_ be a particularly good diplomat, at least compared to somebody like Jasnah or one of the Azish. The choices Brandon made with him definitely left him as mostly the supportive friend/husband archetype with few moments to shine on his own. I will say that at least if we were going to get one of those characters, it's nice to see a male in that archetype for a change.

[@Samuel-lq7kp]

@@Voxil42 in fact, his problem is he's insecure with his potential. If he was useless, well, Stormlight Archive would have ended in book 1. But he's so much insecure he undermines a lot of things. I think it's okay to feel frustrated with Adolin, he feels the same way too. It's wrong, though, to feel like it's a wasted potential coming from Brandon. It isn't. Story isn't always smiles and success.

[@adamsbja]

Yeah. Maya had a great moment that required Adolin to be at LI but I think he could've shone at other places in this book. The main thing about him is that he's always trying to be the spotlight hero he thinks he has to be, doesn't do that anymore since attention has gone towards Radiants instead of a handsome master duelist, but he still helps get things done and he *doesn't give up*. The LI trial was stacked against him, he knew it, but he tried anyway because someone had to. Everybody thinks the broken spren are useless but he keeps trying because of his bond with Maya from his dueling days, and again he never gives up that she's in there somewhere. He doesn't get too many star moments, but every time someone else falters in theirs he's got their back.

[@rubenELruben]

I was going to say the same thing!

[@jonuhey]

Maya did not defend Adolin in the court, she defended herself.

[@westleyhenry1105]

It was a both/and sorta moment.

[@JP44SU]

The point stands though that what I thought was going to be Adolins moment turned out to be her moment.

[@westleyhenry1105]

@@JP44SU oh ya I totally agree. That's why I said both/and, not either or. I would agree that it's much more her moment than his.

[@Thelegenderyhero]

@@JP44SU it still was, if Adolin had thrown away and discarded Maya like any other Alethi he would be imprisoned. But due to his compassion he manages to form a connection to Maya, he acted in a honourable way and managed to convince the Honorspren through his bond with Maya. Weird huh

[@lordofdarkness4204]

@@Thelegenderyhero yeah i’m fairly certain without the bond and compassion that Adolin shows Maya, and without his encouragement, she wouldn’t have been able to speak.

[@Dalenthas]

"Adolin just kinda helps others instead of doing his own thing." My dude, that's the point. Adolin is a helper. The climax of his story is a direct result of his desire and ability to help Maya when everyone else had written her off.

[@xDrucciMane]

This is also one of the reasons why I believe that Adolin will explode into one of the most important characters/Radiants in the Stormlight series. I feel as though he'll not only become Radiant (obviously) but a particularly special one considering the amount of care that has gone into Maya on his part while not only assuming he'll never be Radiant but the fact that he doesn't believe he deserves to be put in that kind of position. I feel like he'll have a bond with Maya that is virtually untouchable compared to the others who have already bonded. Not to mention the fact that he'd be the first person to not only help "reverse" the state of a "dead" spren but then go on to bond them. That feels like an extremely powerful bond and one that would be unmatched by the likes of the current generation of Radiants. Honestly, as long as we have some type of scenario where he and Kaladin are fighting side-by-side, as Radiants, relying on each other not only as fellow Radiants but as brothers who used to despise one another, I'd be content. They deserve each other as brothers in arms. They both come from opposite sides of the spectrum and felt/feel as though they aren't worthy of the power and responsibility bestowed upon them. I can't wait to see them realize that they're some of the individuals that deserve it the MOST. Kaladin has broken an immense barrier by swearing the 4th ideal but I still feel like they'll end up helping each other become some of, if not the first people, to swear the 5th ideal behind Nale. Regardless of how it turns out, I cannot wait to find out. End of drunk rant, lol.

[@Priscellie]

Seriously. Even *Kaladin* was encouraging Adolin to write Maya off. And now Adolin's devotion to her could turn the tide of the war, rectifying the belief that humans betrayed their spren and inspiring countless spren to join humanity's side. He's not a sweet idiot with no purpose in the story--I've lost track of the number of times he's pulled his friends back from the abyss. Loyalty and love are Adolin's superpowers, and it boggles me that some readers don't get how monumentally important he is in the context of the series.

[@Edward-W]

YES

[@alaska4939]

I loved his connection with Maya. I can’t wait to see where that leads!

[@MrKandlejack]

So does Adolin end the series as 'Devotion'? =o

[@tonyandbob]

Honor can never die so long as he lives on in the hearts of men!

[@junesterner7984]

Adolin’s friendship with Kaladin is a beautiful thing. Here you have a man that goes out of his way to help his friends, who doesn’t understand them completely, but genuinely TRIES his damnedest to do it, and moves them because of it. Here is the best and most realistic depiction of an ally to a suicidal person I have seen in a long time. You can only hope that you will meet someone as determined to work with what he has as Adolin Kholin; you can only dream of having someone like that to save your life. I wholeheartedly disagree with you on your assessment of his character; his greatest strength is that he does not need the spotlight to help someone. He does what he can. He tries his best. That is a noble quality that few other characters in the series possess in such magnitude.

[@hockeyhalod]

Underrated comment. I think Adolin is the person I feel most attached to so far. Just always trying to help and always getting frustrated.

[@TurbulentEddie]

I definitely agree. It's seems like a Scar situation where he's helping everyone except for himself. He'll get there, and even if he doesn't, the journey was noble.

[@laiaal.3324]

Exactly! Adolin and Kaladin friendship is so precious. And more so considering that Kaladin kind of "stole" the spotlight of Adolin, so if he had a different personality, he would probably hate Kaladin.

[@richardstrage3682]

ye, adolin is my favorite character, everyone aroud him is ascending to greatness and he is left alone, even if he is more than worthy, he still sticks with maya. wich probably is the dealbreaker for being picked. he is as loyal as a stoneward without being one.

[@Ichigo6739]

I feel like this is highlighted in his thought when he "feels" Maya straining and says "Take my strength" he gave up the throne, he gave up being his father's perfect son when killing sadeas, he gave up trying to pick a partner for himself and let Jasnah pair him and Shallan (not downplaying that they came to love one another), and he gives up spotlight to help others shine. He's the most important part of the fantasy party trope, he's the support.

[@Melancholy_Scholar]

Personal Adolin theory: first human to give power to a spren via a bond, rather than the other way around. Maya is the first spren version of an Edgedancer.

[@EonNShadow]

Yeah I believe this (or something similar) is being built-up. I don't think Adolin is Invested enough to "power" Maya, per se, but he could awaken Maya to become an Edgedancer himself. There's a WoB out there from a long time ago saying it would be difficult, but possible for that to happen.

[@RedBlitzen]

That feels so awesome!

[@BemuzedBookworm]

@@EonNShadow would be somewhat disappointed if that happens. Let him remain "normal" but the idea of Maya becoming a Radiant herself through the bond with Adolin. That would be very interesting

[@alexsantos-hc4io]

In Soviet union the spren get's a shardblade

[@kevinpilch7848]

@@EonNShadow That's my hope/theory for Adolin and Maya, but it seems like their relationship is heading in another direction.

[@brianreck5971]

When Lewshti reacted to Venlis new status, I suddenly cared more about the Parshendi.

[@Tuonela0]

One of two times I felt it deep with Parshendi. The other was when Venli learns the listeners who escaped were alive.

[@rickymallory4365]

I agree with this wholeheartedly. I rather enjoyed their parts but after Leshwi had that reaction, I became much more invested.

[@Ma3dia]

What a subtly *flooring* moment to think about the depths of time the Fused have lived through (and how much the singers writ large have changed in their service to Odium)

[@Juan_Jose_Miraballes]

She say something like "oh the spren forgave us!" I can't wait to know why the singers and the sprens got in wrong terms.

[@shredgordon3240]

I enjoyed all of the current time parshenti parts but I wasn’t really into the flashbacks (other than the final one)

[@Sheija]

What about Raboniel? No thoughts on her? I thought she was a fantastic villain (if you can call her that).

[@Haxerous]

I somehow feel Raboniel managed to outshine even Venli. And without Raboniel we would never have Navani reach her potential. Truly the unexpected dark horse of this story.

[@SuperSGFreak49]

Raboniel was one of my favourite parts of this book. Her whole vibe of seemingly being a fairly reasonable person but with an undercurrent of menace, and all the stuff with her daughter. She was what made the Navani scenes interesting to me because I'm not that interested in Navani

[@Sheija]

@@Haxerous Yeah her and Navani's relationship was a highlight. I kind of get what he means about not being as connected to the Parshendi, but I would distinguish that from the Fused - they more than made up for it IMO, with Raboniel taking the cake. The contrast between tools like the Pursuer - who fight for the sake of the fight (tradition) - to Leshwi, who has honor and Raboniel actually admires for remembering why they fight was so interesting. And I loved her motivations, both in freeing her daughter and creating a weapon that will end the war - one way or another.

[@Sheija]

@@SuperSGFreak49 Yeah, I loved how she was so straight up with both Navani and Venli about their plotting/spying.

[@CoolHandLuke7]

Loved her. My opinion of the Singers was pretty meh until this book and she’s a big part of that.

[@trogdoar149]

Adolin is actually my favorite character overall. Everyone around him is so important... and he's just... Adolin, just a mere man. Kaladin and Dalinar are easy to like, easy to get invested in, their character arcs are epic and dramatic. Adolin's arc is a quiet, understated thing, and I absolutely love that.

[@Valgaav_219]

Agreed but don't forget how dangerous Adolin is realistically. He actually survived that duel with 4 shardbearers. He's trying to find his place in this new world but he's still very important. He was taking people's shards left and right and Dalinar believed in him to the point that he already knew the outcomes of those battles. I see great things for Adolin going forward tbh

[@wittfloyd533]

Same

[@BearZap34]

I think he's gay.....he's going to figure out he's gay and leave shallan or she dies or something

[@reidchikezie1161]

@@BearZap34 I'm dying 😭😂😂😂

[@elenebotha1889]

Yessss

[@severjanlici2032]

Interviewer: So Brandon how powerful is Nightblood? Brandon: YES!

[@avatarofaiyel]

Nightblood finally got to destroy some evil.

[@aaronwilliams8887]

@@avatarofaiyel And i cant help but feel it isn't done yet.

[@trielt1]

@@aaronwilliams8887 He'll never be done. There's always more evil to be destroyed. ...even if you'll have to tempt people into it first. But they'll fall for it, so they'll _definitely_ be evil.

[@ianarvidson3228]

I loved Adolin in this book. The way he was so nervous in picking his outfit for the first time he would see Maya in the Cognitive realm in a year was subtle and so worthwhile to me

[@yumyumhungry]

Breaking Bad Navani was everything I wanted.

[@xsoles1205]

Science bitch

[@ismaelhenriquez4986]

"Journey before destination, you bastard"

[@e22ddie46]

I'm not in danger Raboniel/Moash, I am the danger.

[@treystaton282]

I just thought it was stupid that you would make things for the enemy. Really dumb.

[@ericduey9556]

Cold (not hot) take: We need more Wit and Design. Love the interactions between those two goobers.

[@vermetheus]

Medium take: It's only good because we get it sparingly. Making us want more is doing it's job, but I feel it would wear itself thin with too much more.

[@CoolHandLuke7]

@@vermetheus agreed. A little Wit goes a long way.

[@shredgordon3240]

Imho we’ve got a little to much of wit lately. I think it’s best for him if he stays shrouded in mystery for the most part, with bits and pieces of him being revealed as the series goes on. He’s best in small amounts, like lift and rysn(although I wouldn’t mind a bit more of her)

[@xPhoenixAshx]

Design’s pattern is a shitpost. It’s great.

[@anotherworldhopper5344]

@@shredgordon3240 nah... I want more of wit! I loved every chapter he was in

[@rawrgitsjack]

Oh thank God I finally have a place to post this: The only valid Kmight's Radiant in this book was Zu the Stoneward because the first thing she did when entering Shadesmar was hug her spren.

[@davidwilson6577]

Just casually ignore Kaladin and Syl in the physical realm then I guess.

[@StersFlag]

Taravangian as Odium's vessel is absolutely terrifying, even more after seing that even Hoid is scared of him. I have no idea of where this is going and what Cultivation masterplans are

[@daniel96jg]

I think she f'ed up big time as she miscalculated what and how Taravangian will do/react. Unless....her plan is creating a threat large enough to make the other shards have to work together, ultimately ending back with adonalsium and removing god's from meddling therefore allowing ultimate growth for creation.

[@Voxil42]

@@daniel96jg I wonder if there isn't a larger threat (maybe Autonomy and it's infection of every planet it can find (also assuming that's the shard behind the invasion of Scadrial!)) that Cultivation feels she needs a more reasonable Odium that can act more in line to what the cosmere needs. God's Righteous Anger isn't always a bad thing.

[@lauraoart]

Yes I was like PANIK

[@geosustento8894]

Hoid isn't scared of him exactly. He's terrified of how unexpected the encounter was. Hoid was so used to being twenty steps ahead of everyone and experiencing something he didn't anticipate rattled him.

[@quinceysharp8665]

But this just doesn’t make sense! Why is Taravangian bad?? This whole time his character has been the greater good type of thing. What am I missing?

[@melkor6339]

One thing that I loved about Todium is the fact that we have no idea what is going to happen. Like we started to know better Odium in this book and we could have an idea of what he might do. But Tarangvian? It feels like an chaos element

[@TheDustyMuffinsss]

I feel that finding out who Thaidakar is added even more of that feeling. What the hell does Kel think hes doing?

[@begejekan1244]

Just when we think we figured Odium out, Sanderson just straight up killed him and change the variable again lmao

[@thesecondhandtook6063]

It's the plot point that I keep going back to in my head. You would think it's a slam dunk, Todium can just wrap this up and move onto better things... but it seems like he's still advancing the Odium agenda?? Who knows. Chaos element indeed.

[@Sheija]

To me, it also explains why we've spent so much time exploring Dalinar and Taravangian's relationship and opposing ideals. We might have got to know Rayse a bit, but the dynamic between Dalinar and Todium will be so much more interesting.

[@sirgog]

I just love how brilliantly Taravangodium was set up though. All the pieces of the puzzle were in previous books to see. Just hidden so well that we didn't see it coming.

[@covya]

Apparently you missed the Memo, but Taravangian-Odium is just shortened to Tod. Thank you for coming to my TOD talk.

[@OnyxFlameGod]

Kneel before TOD

[@Annabeth123456]

Toadium

[@likhitesplit5992]

All hail our new lord Tod

[@ElijahStormblessed]

Except it's pronounced Toad

[@Stormblessed72]

fuckin tod

[@taylorhauser3347]

Omg and Raboniel. She was SO GOOD. When she died at the end, I about lost it. Just wanting to release her daughter from a cruel fate. So good. Can't wait for book 5 so I can reread the stormlight archive once more!! And teft, ugh.

[@TLhikan]

For a book that was supposed be Venli's Book, I honestly wasn't that into her chapters. Every time one came up I wasn't excited like I was with other characters. Have to (respectfully) disagree about Adolin though. I feel like his whole arc for all four books has been leading to Maya's recovery and it paid off well, if a bit predictable.

[@daniel.tufeanu]

agree on the Adolin point, "We chose!" is my favourite moment. For the Venli bit, Brando nsaid some months ago that, despite this being the Venli flashback book, there was another character that shined naturally in the book and is more of a "main character" of the book - that being Navani i guess, so i did expect somewhat less of Venli coming to RoW than for example Shallan in WoR.

[@tiesvanlogtestijn7283]

Could not agree more: I felt the exact same regarding both Venli and Adolin. I was really interested in seeing his relation with Maya devolep and thought Branderson did a fantastic job on the development.

[@bkarkling]

I liked Venli's chapters and I do think the book did a good job of expanding her character, but RoW doesn't feel like a book about her like previous books were for Kal/Shallan/Dalinar. It was also supposed to be the Willshapers' book and I don't think it did that much in regards to the order. We learnt alot about Syl in WoK and how Cryptics think in WoR but, while I enjoyed Timbre, I don't really that have much more knowledge about Reachers than I did after reading Oathbringer.

[@bradenhazle4378]

Same. The Venli/Eshonai flashbacks honestly gave us nothing new and felt redundant other than finding out about Ulim. The only thing I'm interested in from those chapters is who that woman was that gave Ulim to Venli? Even Eshonai becoming a radiant before death was just "annnd how does that help/relate to anything now?". Agree on Adolin as well. Yes, things happen through or around him because he has been putting others before himself.

[@hyperspacechicken]

I loved her chapters except for the flashbacks. Those definitely ruined the entire pacing and sucked me out of it.

[@girumf1512]

The BEST line in RoW, I think .... " Journey Before Destination, YOU BASTARD" 😂😂😂

[@henrywayne5724]

PERIODTTT, that line was sooooo satisfying! I went from crying like a baby in Moments to punching my fist in the air. Man, Part 5 was a ROLLERCOASTER of emotions.

[@tadious9415]

I definitely respectfully disagree in terms of Adolin and Maya. Yes she won him the trial, however his connection to her and working on that for 4 books now is what enabled her to do that. That's very much a him alone win, even as everyone else mocked him and dismissed that entirely, even a lot of the other main characters like Kaladin. Even the idea of doing the trail, was his idea when everyone else would've given up. He forced his way in and secured that win in a way I think anyone else might not have. He also I think shined in this book in terms of the rescue of the Honorspren who's name I forget. That was a badass fight, and I love that it was all him winning most of it on his wits and skill alone. And his clear honor won them over and that played a key role too in the win, although dwarfed by Maya. I also think Sanderson has done a great job of slowly building Adolin up as an Edgedancer and how much he listens to those commonly ignored, and sees everyone. I also think in many ways Adolin is one of the best, in terms of being a good person, characters as he keeps showing up and exemplifying honor and kindness in a way that even Kaladin doesn't always do mostly on the kindness part, although that's because of his inner demons. Adolin is just so consistently a good friend, and a good husband despite a ridiculously complicated wife for her own reasons that he accepts without a moments thought. He doesn't always know what to do but he's always there to help her if he can. On the other hand I definitely agree about the Singers and Listener culture. I liked a lot of the current timeframe Listener / Fused characters, and some of the flashbacks had something to them but a lot felt meh. I was more interested on the potential of a Terris person, or just other person who likes excessive rings, who came in to help and why than I was about the Listeners. I'm glad at least to some degree Sanderson realized that and toned down the flashbacks from where most of them were, and I liked the ending for Eshonai as that was a nice sendoff to that character. I also agree for Shallan the buildup and payoff for Formless was too quick, which I think could've been helped if their storyline wasn't entirely dropped for part 3, but I could see how that'd be tricky to do. It just felt like any time she was potentially peaking out felt like intro then she was here and gone.

[@proctifer9833]

Yeah, I always got a little disappointed when I turned the page and saw *8 years ago*. I was not a fan of the flashbacks in this book.

[@tadious9415]

@@proctifer9833 Yeah there were some that were fine or had good moments but as a whole every one of the other books did them much better. At least he did minimize them somewhat compared to the others. I am looking forward to seeing Szeth's next book!

[@naraoia4450]

It wasn't just my imagination! I *thought* her name sounded Terris!

[@tadious9415]

@@naraoia4450 I was thinking the part about her excessive rings but that's true too!

[@PonderingsOfPete]

I appreciate you honesty with all of this. Although our opinions don’t always line up, it’s good to hear another that’s just not mine. I think Maya’s big scream was a part of Adolin’s arc in a meaningful way. She was able to scream because of the connection (Connection?) that Adolin shares with her. So I think the payoff is there for Adolin and plus into his potentially being an Edgedancer or pseudo-Radiant or whatever (tbh I don’t want him to be radiant, especially because of Dalinar’s expectations). He was able to solve the problem of the honorspren by remembering someone who had been forgotten, and empowering them to speak up.

[@RedBlitzen]

I personally feel that Adolin's bond is not a Nahel (I think that's the official word) bond but something wholly new with completely unknown possibilities for Roshar.

[@PonderingsOfPete]

@@RedBlitzen I like this theory. New territory is something good. A new bond for the son of a Bondsmith

[@adamsbja]

My dream moment for the end of where he's going is that he doesn't develop special powers but in the climax just brings his whole self to the fight for a character defining moment. Then afterward (or at some proper point) a Radiant has to pick up his shardblade... and it doesn't scream.

[@PonderingsOfPete]

@@adamsbja oooh that sounds glorious

[@Greenicegod]

I think Adolin becoming a Radiant despite not living up to Dalanar's expectations would be great. It might finally pound some sense into Dalanar's head, make him see that not all Radiants are like Windrunners, and that not all Radiants NEED to be like Windrunners. It might even help ease the schism between Releasers and bring them back to the Anti-Odium side. Also, I hope to see a method developed where worthy squires are given Blades to try and revive more of the old spren.

[@MrNan0u]

I agree with some of your points, disagree with other, as it should be. Rythm of War was a true 5 stars for me, loved it.

[@hunterkat]

I would say it was a 4.5. I liked it a lot, but it didn’t hit me as hard as the other three. I think it suffers a bit from middle book syndrome. I liked the present Venli viewpoints, but the flashbacks weren’t all that great imo. The Shadesmar stuff was the weakest arc to me, but I did love Adolin’s character and Shallan’s development through it. Todium was an amazing twist, and the whole scene of Kaladin swearing the fourth ideal was incredible. It had its problems, but it was still a great book.

[@urorazbojnik5678]

Idk...is it just me or is the book mostly tell and zero show? As stories go Stormlight will be one of the greatest ones. As novel series go--not so much.

[@delinquencypunch9905]

I was listening to one of latter chapters on the way home from work, and that one Kaladin chapter had me ugly crying in the highway.

[@joshuafischer684]

Which one, there were like 3 where I nearly teared up.

[@kylemccarty833]

@@joshuafischer684 I know right? The one with Adolin, the one with Teft, and then... well every Kaladin chapter after the Tower falls. Oh oh. When Dalinar saves him from the storm... the first time. That was literary heroin.

[@TheBrotherGrim]

Losing Teft hurt baaad. Since soon after he'd been introduced, I had latched onto him, and he quickly became a favorite character. As an addict who has been mostly clean for a little less than ten years, it was beautiful to see him deal with his demons and ascend to radiant. His interactions with his spren were great, and damn it hurt to lose him.

[@Greenicegod]

For me it was when Kaladin jumps off the tower after Lirin... Tien finally being able to explain to Kaladin what death is really about, so that he can finally accept his failures without being crushed beneath them. That just really hit different, same as that scene in Harry Potter where he uses the Resurrection Stone to see all his parental figures, including the recently deceased Lupin.

[@gretalamb2030]

@@Greenicegod i literally had to put the book down and hold my stomach as i SOBBED during that chapter LMAO

[@hybridhd7436]

I just like how we have no clue what Cultivation really wants or even her goals. From what we've seen of her so far she seems more neutral but you never know when it comes to shards.

[@Darkkfated]

For all that you want to scoff at the Shards who are answering Hoid's letters with "No, I'm not going to help or intervene, Rayse is trapped on Roshar. We made that "One Shard per World" rule for a REASON and you morons keep breaking it, tough luck"... they're right. From what we've seen, having multiple Shards on a single World ALWAYS results in strife and destruction and war and the Shards usually end up responsible for untold numbers of humans killed over the millennia. Having 3 Shards duking it out on Roshar has led to, what, over 7500 years of death, destruction, and desolations?

[@bradenhazle4378]

As Sazed said, it's not the vessel that you should be worried about it's the power itself. That goes for Taravangian as well and this will be terrifying because despite his intentions, he is just a vessel, a genius that Odium will take advantage of. Cultivation f'ed up universally since she thinks Todium can control the power.

[@Darkkfated]

I mean, I can understand wanting Rayse out of the picture, and thinking that someone else might be able to keep the worst of Odium's powers and passions more or less in check. But to pick freaking *Taravangian* as that person? You done fucked up, Cultivation. Big time.

[@remzzo]

@@Darkkfated I think that you can control that power more if you are new to it. Rayse was more Odium than Rayse. Cultivation choose Taravangian because he would be able to resist Odiums power and wield it in unOdium-like way, therefore risking the Shard being shattered like what happened with Honor.

[@eliarece-5996]

It's interesting that you barely talked about the things that I loved about this book (the rhythms, Kaladin acting as the last rebel, Maya's speach, the entire fucking ending...Though you did talk about T-Odium) in favor of things that seem like details to me. It does explain why you consider this book to be good, while I consider it to be the best Sanderson book

[@Darkkfated]

People seem really down on this book for whatever reasons, but I loved the shit out of it. I was crying when Formless and Veil had their moment in the High Judge's sitting room; Kaladin doing his best John McClane impression and fighting the good fight in Urithiru; Adolin treating Maya as a friend and not a homeless bum to be ignored or pitied yielding fruit in the court; Nightblood finally gets to destroy some evil and now suddenly we have a Wild Card Odium to deal with; the terrifying spectre of the upcoming duel, especially now that Hoid has been nerfed into the ground and can't help our Heroes much, Moash finally getting a little bit of what's coming to him, Navani being amazing for the entire occupation... I loved so many things in this book. I'd actually rate it #2 after Words of Radiance, whereas the general consensus for most people seems to be "it's at the bottom of the four, maybe second from the bottom if I'm feeling generous" and I just don't get it. Did we read the same book?

[@adoniscreed4031]

I do appreciate all of the interesting thing about this book and liked it... its definitely my least favourite cosmere book without a doubt

[@jonathanhowe8535]

See I actually wanted Adolin to say the oaths and “Heal” Maya, but Brando Sando pulling the “we chose” had me shook.

[@Subvisual]

I'm starting to worry that Brandon is deriving enjoyment from abusing Kaladin.

[@kylemccarty833]

When you realize the name Sadeas is probably based on sadist... don’t ask why I made that connection.

[@Loomx5]

I feel like the Kaladin depression arc will probably be scaled back in book 5. Coming to terms with loss was his biggest problem throughout all these books so doing so will help him move forward imo.

[@PawanTanaySingh]

@@Loomx5 The Szeth and Kal dynamic is also going to be very interesting.

[@ipodjockey2432]

Yeah his arc in this book affected me IRL. That "stuck" feeling that depression creates was so vividly portrayed.

[@ArcherWillows]

@@PawanTanaySingh honestly, I can't wait to see Szeth and Kal's dynamic in book 5, but something I REALLY want to see is Kal and Leshwi interacting not as hostiles to each other. I'm talking diplomacy, maybe friendship, but I definitely want to see a back-to-back fighting scene with the two of them. Would be glorious.

[@Yanduwei]

Notum choosing to speak for instead of against the humans was incredible. "Honor is not dead in the hearts of men." Is not a line or scene I will ever forget

[@adoniscreed4031]

I was crying and cheering at the same time watching that scene!!!! The way Adolin really twists the knife in with his remarks when he sees him and then Notum completely snaps and shifts sides and hits us with THAT quote! What an incredible scene 😭

[@sebastionhanson7794]

Honestly I actually really liked adolin in this book. His personal struggles with dealing with his father's revelations , what happened with sadeus and how hes still doing everything he can to help and support these other characters with their problems all made me personally invested with what was going on with him. But what I'm most worried about with the book is the ending and the whole ten days thing. Because of what it potentially means since it means dalinars coalition has to lose the duel or It will kinda make rhythm of war pointless since the war will be over and all the accomplishments of navani and adolin wont have time to make an impact. But if they lose then we will lose dalinar and honestly I'm not sure what will happen at that point. I trust in sanderson completely but still think I'd rather the duel been like 10 weeks or something.

[@NoorAhmed-nk2jq]

I liked the Adolin stuff too, it felt rushed a little maybe but I think Oathbringer has established a lot of it, with Maya and the way he dealt with killing Sadeas and trying to be there for Kaladin when he was depressed, and this book is a year later so he has had time to mature and be more motivated to deal with these bigger issues. I just would have loved if we built it up a little more in this book so we see him being diplomatic before his trial.

[@sebastionhanson7794]

@@NoorAhmed-nk2jq yeah that's totally fair.

[@Haxerous]

Not necessarily. The back half could very well be about the Greater War

[@petervilla5221]

Im personally hoping Todium wins the duel because it will cause so much to go sideways in the rest of the cosmere. But we'll see what happens in like 2 years i guess..

[@jayarcher3331]

I thought the dabbid chapter were great. I always love how Brandon Sanderson handles mental illnesses in his books.

[@adriangodoy4610]

It hit me hard

[@AnakinTheWeird]

PSA: Go back and read the last bit with Shallan and pay close attention to the conversation about Thaidakar. Possibly the biggest bomb-drop in the book, even with the Taravangian thing.

[@petervilla5221]

(Requires Mistborn Era 1 knowledge)

[@moronpoliceHQ]

I'm not convinced of it yet. But it does hint at it.

[@AnakinTheWeird]

@@moronpoliceHQ Someone asked Brandon awhile back which secret organizations that character would join. Brandon's response was "He would become part of the Ghostbloods, most likely, and would be in charge of them within a year." This has been planned for some time.

[@danielmayer38]

@@moronpoliceHQ "Lord of Scars" plus Wit saying "Don't make me come slap you around again." Is pretty definitive

[@emsam3457]

@@danielmayer38 I may not remember something about Scadrial but when Hoid was there?

[@cheskaacance9220]

Weirdly enough I cared more about adolin and maya rather than venli and her flashbacks

[@SuperBossWizard]

I found the 400 page gap between the Shadesmar storyline far more jarring than any Wheel of Time drop off. I don't know why but it really threw me

[@daniel.tufeanu]

for me too, I really enjoyed the book, but i wish it was a bit more Oathbringer style than Way of Kings style in structure (not having some plots shown only in some parts of the book)

[@mrgodliak]

Seems a lot of people have had that thought, I didn’t feel it at all (especially when comparing it to WoT)

[@TheFloon]

Same here! I think with this one, it started off well with checking in on everyone fairly evenly and building toward stuff together and then...nothing for an increasingly annoying length of time.

[@shredgordon3240]

I think it’s because the wheel of time is paced a little better. The Stormlight archive goes insanely deep with its characters so when you leave one of them behind without a proper justification it doesn’t really work.

[@DanielSClouser]

No love for the Thaidakar reveal, huh? That's going to be a BIG deal at some point

[@ElijahStormblessed]

It could be that he doesn't want to get into Cosmere spoilers, but rather keep it to just Stormlight

[@quinceysharp8665]

But Thaidakar being Kelseir doesn’t make sense.. Brandon himself said Kelseir can’t leave Scadrial? What’s going on here..

[@DanielSClouser]

@@quinceysharp8665 Mraize says that Thaidakar doesn't come to Roshar. He makes it sound like it's because he's too important, but he's being deceptive with that implication. It's because Kelsier can't leave Scadrial.

[@ProvidenceNL]

​@@quinceysharp8665 Doesnt Wit(hoid) tell Shallan to tell Mraize that Thaidakar should take care of his own planet unless he wants Wit to come and smack him again? Thaidakar only communicates with avatars, which would also strengthen the idea he is stuck on say...Scadriel.

[@quinceysharp8665]

Providencenl I guess Kel could be running the GBs from Scadrial... but how he knows so much about the cosmere doesn’t make sense. He’s been busy these last few hundred years.

[@ACrossland22]

Kaladin is by far my favorite character. I've dealt with depression for years from the things I've seen and done in my life, and there is so much that goes on Kaladin's head that I relate to on a deep level. I'm very excited to see what happens in the next book.

[@5ofineed5aladder]

I feel you homie ♥

[@gabrielnaylor6443]

I think that with Adolin's arc, the whole concept is that now in a world with radiants and magic he is just no longer as useful in the roles he used to fill, and in book 5 his arc will be all about him having to fully come to terms with that, imo.

[@DanielSClouser]

The Vyre interlude also contradicts Adolin's self-opinion. He thinks that he's worthless now because he can't do what Radiants can, but Moash sure thinks that he's pretty useful on the battlefield. He pulls maneuvers with his Blade that only Radiants can. He doesn't struggle with the same mental health issues that others in story do, so people miss it, but Adolin has self-esteem issues to deal with himself.

[@happyreadingwatching1597]

I consumed this book in 5 days and I still can't give a proper review. I just loved it and maybe among rereads my rating will drop but right now I stand at a 5 star read♡ Loved the pacing, the charcter growth and that ending😘 Thanks for this review it made me laugh and it was a great way to start my day♡♡♡

[@happyreadingwatching1597]

Also forgot to add thanks for your reviews and always being honest. I can see your point of view on how you review books better after this video. Hope you have a lovely day and thanks for being amazing ♡♡♡

[@kidsgoggans9897]

Best way to summarize part 5 is it runs your emotions through a paint mixer.

[@Rocketyfox]

Especially the bit where cal is having his little free fall vision. Manly tears were shed

[@kylemccarty833]

@@Rocketyfox *Tian hands him the horse* We wept.

[@MGenrih]

Emulsifier

[@hatboxphahtom1262]

You can not change my mind the rhythm "Rhythm of War" is ragtime.

[@mastelsa]

I really love Adolin and I think he got some subtle but genuinely good development in this book. Adolin's got a touch of Perfectionist Older Sibling Syndrome and is struggling to tread water, let alone achieve the type of results he's used to, while everyone around him now has superpowers. He was given responsibility and high expectations very early in life, he was trained for a bunch of stuff that is now obsolete, he's discovered just how deeply flawed his dad (who used to be his idol) is and has had to come to terms with the fact that his dad killed his mother, he's continuing to clash with his dad over issues of identity, and his wife and his friend are experiencing mental health crises he feels like he can't actually help them with, which is absolute torture for the type of person who feels such deep instincts to both care for people and also to achieve results. I feel like everyone's going to have a different relationship to each of the Stormlight MCs--not each character is going to hit quite as close to home for every reader--but Adolin's story and conflict really hit well for me. Adolin is going through some serious struggles--he was trained to be a main hero and has adapted into playing a support class.

[@CantStopTheMadness]

I love that one of Daniel's criticisms boils down to "I wish the book had been longer" (more time with Shallan's internal dialogue). Daniel Daniel no Daniel pls Brandon may see And HE'LL DO IT

[@collinthomas7901]

LET HIM

[@WraithLK]

2,000 pages let’s go

[@sirgog]

Taravangodium was a moment that just blew my mind, especially when I looked back and realised holy SHIT this has been set up since book 2. Every time Taravangian discusses means and ends, it's always 'Let the burden of sin fall upon me' which is so similar to 'I will draw strength from your pain, give it to me'. Personally I liked the Adolin-focused parts of section 4, but not the Shallan-focused parts of section 2. Venli's flashbacks were too long and too disconnected from the rest of the story. The Navani vs Raboniel storyline in the Tower was done really well, although it felt like a repeat of The Emperor's Soul.

[@SuperSGFreak49]

I feel like the Parshendi deserve more love in this book. It felt to me like the emotional core and themes of Rhythm of War were centred around Venli, Leshwi, Raboniel and Rlain, even though more page time was spent elsewhere. I was much more engaged by them than I was by a lot of the main cast

[@naraoia4450]

I'm really looking forward to Kaladin and Leshwi meeting again. They clearly respected each other as enemies, which they no longer are. I hope they get to interact again, with both of their situations changed. (NO SHIPPING! Bad Grim! ^_^)

[@pranjanarahangdale9629]

I agree ! ROW might not be my favorite but I appreciate brandon for making me care so much about the parshendi, I thought their scenes(flashbacks) were really beautiful and the ending with eshonai broke me even more. ROW is also the only book which has the most interesting interludes in my opinion. Raboniel was great ! And I actually really like venli ans leshwi more now. I'm glad Navani was also a prominent character cause I love her and she was amazing in this. As a Science Student I can say that I really really enjoyed this book. Some scenes like Kal swearing the fourth ideal felt off but I love him and he's precious to me, I just wish his story will be more integrated into the plot.

[@aymaraelorriaga8542]

Make a full spoilers review: "Kal deals with depression" No way...

[@entropicprinciple9276]

Yeah It gets old shallan also dealing with her past LOL

[@salvadorwienecke5553]

I personally enjoyed Adolins storyline very much, though admittedly I mostly just wanted to see Maya do cool stuff.

[@christophermcknight3144]

Best line in the book...."I'm banning toes!"

[@ronanelliott9709]

Looking forward to the implications of T-Odium. The Sanderson Cinematic Universe has a Thanos now.

[@Voxil42]

I feel like the Singers, just like the Assassination Day prologue, are having their own story arc/perception shift through the first 5 books. Book 1 they are painted to be some mystical and fel threat. Book 2 they are shown to be very real and definitely evil. Book 3 you're shown that, no, most Singers are decent, if understandably furious, people but it's the Fused that have an evil agenda and are controlling them. Book 4 shows that, no, even the Fused are not monolithic and they want the war to end just as much as the humans. I wonder what Book 5 will bring. That may be part of why feelings are mixed on these guys. You can't really hate them as bad guys but we still have some of that initial prejudice working against them. Maybe not. Also, calling it now, New Odium picks Gavinor as his Champion and Dalinar will be forced to kill him or forfeit Roshar.

[@naraoia4450]

"Also, calling it now, New Odium picks Gavinor as his Champion and Dalinar will be forced to kill him or forfeit Roshar." Oh man, I would throw the book if Brandon did that. That's a nasty, nasty thing to do both to Dalinar and the readers.

[@ArcherWillows]

Words cannot say how much I hate the idea of this happening

[@tomdeboerio3639]

As an engineer, the Navani storyline was amazing because I could really relate with here personality and story arc. I don't necessarily agree with your opinion on the Adolin arc: I didn't see the decision to go to trial coming, and the Maya event was a good payoff all the way from the first book when he says he is the only one he knows to talk to his shardblade. So I enjoyed those arc without problem. Honestly my biggest issue with the book was the Venli/Eshonai flashback. I just couldn't get into them and I often found myself speedreading them to get over it and go back to the meat of the action.

My insterest in the Parshendi story took a massive hit when Eshonai died. I was happy to see more of her in this book, but Venli never really clicked for me as a character.

[@WouldBeGamer]

Same here, if she hadnt died and Eshonai had venlis arc Id care a whole lot more

[@shredgordon3240]

I liked Venli but the flashbacks never clicked for me

[@mateocanocardona5700]

The kaladin and Tien moment broke me to tears, I hold it with teft but seeing Tien again, man I feel that so deep

[@dukepeterson9488]

Gavilar:My rule shall last forever! Szeth:Hold my beer.

[@and-reass2719]

No one talking about Teft. But Teft's death was unexpected and shocking for me. First the pain he felt when his spren was killed and then him being killed by Moash after all he went through and overcame. Just really heartbreaking. I'm not sure if I'm that excited for the 5th book since who knows who's death is coming next.

[@nabalo2799]

Venli was one of my favorite characters in this books actually, well her present form. Her flashbacks with the other listeners didn’t pull me in, but I just loved her.

[@egilsama]

"What's [Adolin] doing? Because even now, he's acting as a vassal for someone else?" That's a huge point of stress for Adolin, Navani points it out at the beginning of the book. He was shadowed all his life by the titan that ks his father, and now he finds himself surrounded by Radiants, feeling incredibly irrelevant. I agree that Sanderson could treat his character better, since he's my favourite one, but a huge point of Adolin's character is that he lives for others.

[@Mightyjordy]

I loved this book. I agree with most of your points, but I liked Adolins story and didn’t care as much for Navanis just because it took so much time to get through. Thanks for putting up a spoiler review!

[@henrikfitch4017]

One thing I just now picked up on is the comparison between the Deadeyes and the PTSD soldiers. Think about it, both are kind of just 'living' on autopilot, both suffered because of war and most importantly the way they are treated. The Ardentia and the Honourspren both lock them up in a poor attempt to 'protect' them, but Kaladin and Adolin both prove that what really helps them is to talk to them, spend time with them, really care about them and treat them like normal people. This ultimately is the reason why Maya helped Adolin. I think it was a good moment for Adolin because his kindness payed off. Ever since he knew the shocking reality of Maya he did everything he could to try and treat her like a normal person and it finally comes to a grand conclusion. Sure, maybe not a singular 'big' moment for Adolin, but a sum of many small things which is actually more true to life. It isn't usually the grand moments that make the most difference, but the consistant, small things in life that change the world.

[@studynot757]

You mention you love Adolin and his relationships. The payoff with Maya is all about Adolin and relationships. That was a big payoff I thought.

[@naraoia4450]

I found it deeply satisfying. It's so nice to see someone get rewarded for just... being a good person?

[@925263]

Raboniel is now up there with Denth as my favorite Sanderson villain. Outstanding arc for her.

[@gavinsmith9871]

"There wasn't a Sanderlanch." (non-spoiler review) BRO WHAT YOU TALKING ABOUT.

[@ElijahStormblessed]

I've said this same thing, and after some thought, I've decided that because the whole thing feels like a Sanderlanche, the ending doesn't stand out as that different from the rest of the book

[@LagMasterSam]

I think the difference is that it was drawn out over a longer period of time in this book. Instead of the last 10%, it was like the last 25%.

[@sirgog]

@@LagMasterSam Agree. In Oathbringer we have the setup - everything up to the Battle of Thaylen Field. Then there's the moment Odium tries to turn Dalinar then Amaram swaps sides. That's the start of the Sanderlanche. Here, it's a longer slower burn.

[@adamsbja]

The Sanderlanche to me felt like the end of... was it Section 2 when the Tower falls? You had the multiple PoVs in the same location but far enough apart that you were just waiting for them to collide, but then they didn't because that was only 1/4 of the way through the book and you can't Sanderlanche a conclusion with that much left to go.

[@b.ryanbushman6700]

I definitely felt like there wasn’t a sanderlanch. There was a minor rockslide with taravangian, but overall, the ending was “slow” and felt to me like a setup to the next book. There was no downward spiral of all the setup crashing down like in OB or WoK

[@invaderzod8092]

I gotta say that my favorite reveal of this book is that the leader of the Ghostbloods is Kelsier.

[@eaptan]

Keep in mind that if adolin gives you a "what is he doing?" vibe, adolin himself feels that way!

[@Caru14]

Adolins arc with Maya was one of my favorite things in the book. I don’t think someone being selfless is lacking development I think it’s actually a really good character trait.

[@PairAPhrase33]

This might be a massive stretch so I apologize in advanced. Was Adolin potentially written to be Maya's "spren"? Her "We Chose" moment felt like her version of a First Ideal, and because Adolin already accepted her, she just needed to "say the words". Maya felt similar to Kaladin in a way and Adolin was her 'Syl' keeping her going. I don't think it really means anything in the grand scheme of things, just a thought that came up. Cheers

[@proto6948]

I cant say for sure thats what BrandoSando was going for but I really like that interpretation of it. Thats my headcanon now

[@caylynn4023]

Kaladin was easily my favorite part of Rhythm of War. Just like you said, seeing a character share my own struggles with depression-everything from the grand span of years to the moments that kick off spirals to the exact thoughts I have at the worst points-written SO WELL, was definitely an experience to read. It's annoying to see a character just get over their mental struggles, so Rhythm of War was a breath of fresh air.

[@lucasbertsche3710]

The final flashback chapter with Eshonai hit me A LOT harder than I was expecting

[@davidraveh5966]

I was so uninterested that I don't even remember what scene you are referring to

[@lucaleone4331]

Funny, Adolin was actually one of my favorites. I dont know why it had to be "all about him", his love and compassion led to Mayas moment. It was one of the best scenes of the book, on par with "Honor is dead but Ill see what I can do." They found out the radiants didnt betray spren, that the genocide didnt happen. That wouldnt have happened if it wasnt for Adolin.

[@jjdruffel]

Adolin's relationship with Maya was set up perfectly for the trial. He spoke to and cared for her throughout the series. Maya speaking up for him during a pivotal trial speaks immensely to his character!

[@dannyb826]

Coming in to this way late. I'm fascinated in your thoughts on Adolin. He's one of, if not my absolute, favorite characters in this story because he seems to be just very purely a good human. Cares about other people so much so that he has shown devotion and care enough to a Dead Eye that brought her back to life (in a way). He's the only one who could have succeeded in Lasting Integrity. And I predict he will actually be Dalinar's Champion, in the end, after he bonds Cultivation. Always interesting to me to see how people view different characters! Thanks for the review

[@Kwizii]

I find it cool that he's not Radiant, I hope he stays that way. Also he is so devoted to Maya that I have trouble seeing him bond a spren. I love his character though!

[@dannyb826]

@@Kwizii My hot prediction is that his loyalty to Maya (a cultivation-spren) will lead Cultivation to find him worthy of a bond, but still be able to use Maya as a blade. Make him a unique bondsmith. But I agree, I do love that he's just a guy right now

[@Kwizii]

@@dannyb826 You might be right. Maybe bond a rebooted Maya? :D

[@bryson2662]

Boo, Adolin is the best character.

[@egilsama]

I wish we could've had more chapters from his POV 😔

[@SuperBossWizard]

Best character but most underused by Brandon. I was especially disappointed in this book

[@kylefast9650]

I love his character to

[@bryson2662]

@@SuperBossWizard I disagree. He was great in this book

[@Ravi9A]

Indeed, Booo

[@JokerSmurf123]

The defeated one and maya's court appearance are probably some of my favourite moments from the entire series

[@aldenwilkins]

Thanks for the review. Great as always. I actually really liked Adolin's story in this book. His problems were not solved with a duel, which I liked. His reaching out to Kaladin to try to help his friend was great. Just my 2 cents.

[@aldenwilkins]

I did not care for the Venli/Eshonai flash backs, at all. Had to get through those.

[@jonah4850]

Bruh, the taravangian twist had me floored. Rayse was not only the biggest stormlight villian, but arguably the biggest threat to the cosmere. And now, Taravangian is somehow sneakier, smarter, and more devious than Rayse had been. Super excited to see where this goes.

[@DanKxxx]

one thing I find strange about the ending is that hoid is storing his latest memories in breaths rather than older ones.

[@JambleBramble]

As far as Formless' relatively abrupt resolution, I personally really appreciate how often he introduces personal and/or interpersonal conflicts that resemble overplayed story elements and then says "haha jk it's resolved"

[@nagendrapercy9510]

Just finished the book. Expected to get bored with Venli, Rlain and other characters who got page time for the first time from your spoiler free review, but I really enjoyed all of them and i am really surprised at how much I enjoyed the book after watching your review. A lot of things that bothered you didn’t bother me as much except for shallan and adolin’s arc maybe.

[@aaronnorton7703]

I’m a psychotherapist and I gotta say I completely agree with you. I’ve never seen mental health so well portrayed, in both expression and recovery. One of the reasons I love reading Brandon Sanderson so much is because of how well he writes mental health and the arc of recovery from mental health. So tired of characters just snapping out of ptsd and depression. Sanderson does it right.

[@burrskurr4304]

I agree with most of the opinions presented! thoughts: -the structuring of the middle part of the book where we don't see certain characters for a long time bothered me a little more than it should have -Adolins arc felt good to me, I get that it wasn't as satisfying from a character perspective but that made him seem even more human, trying his best and not necessarily succeeding through his own merit (but still basically saving Maya/the day by being a genuine Good Guy™) -also I think the reason the Listener flashbacks are less engaging than the Blackthorn flashbacks in OB is that while their culture is very interesting, the information presented doesn't feel as new and revealing -didnt expect Todium and love how Brandon constantly raises the stakes and keeps everything fresh by killing off villains and changing threats (Rayse was kinda weak anyway imo) -Navani/Raboniel interaction is amazing♡ Obviously a great read, Kate & Michael killing it on the audiobook. While waiting for the next entry I'm off to close my cosmere knowledge gaps, probably reading Warbreaker next.

[@burrskurr4304]

Also I just realized RoW is tonally super serious compared to previous books, and while I liked the mental health angle I'm definitely hoping for a little more lighthearted character interaction going forward :)

[@whitlatch1999]

@@burrskurr4304 war breaker is pretty rough just like this book. Just a heads up

[@henrywayne5724]

@@burrskurr4304 I know, this was the DARKEST book in the Stormlight series, melancholia was just sleeping through all these pages and wow... Every light hearted moment is loomed by something nefarious in the background and wow, I didn’t expect it to be this way. And I have to say, this has to be the BEST titled book of Stormlight. Both figuratively and literally

[@alaska4939]

Just finished the book myself. My favorite moment “Journey before destination, you bastard!”

[@bookreader0221]

If anyone wants an actual spoiler review with meaningful discussion and less commenting on other people’s opinions of their own opinions, go check out Elliot Brooks’ spoiler chat videos for this series. She reviews the books for any SA reader to enjoy, not just the “casual fans” (whatever that means).

[@somerandomnoob100]

You've never heard the term casual fan? It's quite common and fairly self explanatory. Someone who likes something but doesn't engage heavily with the fandom

[@bookreader0221]

@@somerandomnoob100 i don’t know anyone who is reading these 1200 page tomes who considers themselves “casual fans”, but whatever. My main criticism with this video is he spent a third of it commenting on other people’s opinions of his opinions and not talking about the book, not sure how that’s helpful for viewers of any variety to hear. He also admits to missing stuff because he’s reading multiple books at once. Idk, just didn’t seem like a thoughtful review even for the casual fans if there are any out there.

[@somerandomnoob100]

@@bookreader0221 I suppose that's fair. This video does seem to be more of a response video. Although I think he does pretty clearly explain what he likes and dislikes about the book. And it's not like reading multiple series at the same time is an insane thing to do

[@bookreader0221]

@@somerandomnoob100 agree with that, I read multiple book series at once. Just an odd flex to say that’s why you’re missing things in the book and not reading it critically.

[@blocinmotion]

Adolin is a breath of fresh air. Hes the most mentally stable character in the series. It's such a relief when we switch to his view. I really like his level headedness, and i love that hes fighting as someone who is not a radiant.

[@jawanza72]

Sanderson should have went full Parshendi in this book. The biggest problem of this book was that Venli didn't develop enough and she didn't accomplish much. Compare her to previous focus characters in the first three books and what those characters were able to accomplish. Venli's contributions just don't measure up. Why devote so much time to a character that accomplishes so little compared to her contemporaries.

[@henrywayne5724]

Hmmmm, I beg to differ but O.K.

[@jawanza72]

@@henrywayne5724 why should you need to beg for a difference in opinion and what exactly are you objecting against. Do you like how they handled Venli or do you think there should have been more progression from the character?

[@henrywayne5724]

@@jawanza72 I disagree with your opinions, and I normally don’t compare the development of characters but I really feel like Venli actually developed so much. I could barely stand her in Words Of Radiance, pushed through her chapters in Oathbringer and devoured her chapters in Rhythm Of War. I honestly don’t agree that Venli has accomplished very little compared to her contemporaries. I mean, just because she didn’t have a big epic moment where she did this, this and that doesn’t mean that her contributions are any less impactful. But hey, I don’t wanna get into an argument with you, so I’ll just leave it at that.

[@jawanza72]

@@henrywayne5724 arguments comparing the impact of fictitious characters are the best kind. You are right to point out that her contributions could be just as impactful despite their lack of..... Epicness? I'm sure that's not a word. But epic and exciting deeds are so much more fun and ad to the drama and overall excitement of the book. I guess I will need to wait another three years for the big payoff. How is our argument going so far?

[@Dank_Engine]

I liked this book overall. I loved the parts with the Listeners and Singers. I actually felt like the characters went backwards on their emotional growth. Kaladin's depression and Shallan's D.I.D. just felt tedious to me.

[@yaelfeldman6965]

Haven't finished the book yet so I just came to drop a like and get back into the book. Would return after Im finished with it Edit (2 weeks later): Now I have finished! Loved it! The Dog And The Dragon story is so so so good omg.

[@thewitchking852]

Love your channel man. I loved reading as a kid and kinda lost it for the last few years but one of your videos popped up in my recs randomly and I decided to pick up mistborn after watching some vids. I'd forgotten how much I loved fantasy. Now ive polished off that series and the stormlight archive. I thank you for reminding to a passion I'd forgotten about

[@Nasser851000]

Just finished Fires of Heaven and moving on to Lord of Chaos ;)

[@fozzybear3010]

Shouldn't you read new spring after book 5?

[@abbys6260]

@@fozzybear3010 you don't have to. I read it at the end of the series.

[@fozzybear3010]

@@abbys6260 I just said that cos Daniel says you should :3

[@saishekhar8166]

Ha! I just started shadow rising

[@joshuafischer684]

Lord of Chaos is the best book until the back half of Knife of Dreams. KoD gets WAAAAY too much hate.

[@tonykuriger573]

If there was one takeaway from Rhythm of War, it is that Timber definitely pulsed.

[@JackOfAllSkillige]

Gotta respectfully disagree with you on my boy Adolin. Part of Adolin’s whole deal is that he does just help people. His treating Maya like a person (spren) despite being a dead eye is what enables her to come somewhat out of her state. His reassurance probably stopped Kal from killing himself or at the very least majorly self harming, and his love for Shallan allows her to come more to terms with yourself. Adolin truly is the most Edgedancery Edgedancer who ever danced upon a edge

[@AradanFtw]

After I finished Rhythm of War my mind was just reeling with all the information. I laughed, I cried. Thinking back I can see that there were some problems with the book like what you mentioned, but I feel that even though a book can be imperfect I still loved it. I think that I read these books a little more like the people in the 17th Shard do as a fan boy rather than a reviewer though, so that definitely skews my opinion. Tien and Kaladin's scene absolutely rocked me. And while it may be an unpopular opinion, I really liked Shallan and Adolin's relationship. I personally have felt like Adolin a lot of times (successful father, not living up to expectations, feelings of inadequacies despite my own talents). When reading it I feel that Brandon probably had similar feelings with becoming a writer when his parents had kind of directed him into accounting. They love him for it now but I imagine they were really worried at first due to the risk. Anyway, enough rambling from me. Thanks for the review Daniel :)

[@rubenELruben]

I cried a lot. That's everything I can say right now :(

[@LemonyBello]

I can't wait to find out why Kelseir is in this book. Like... will we see Southern Scadrians on space ships rock up bringing pure Sazed investiture and letting a fourth God have a foothold on this planet?? Super exciting.

[@DavidWilliams-rv8vj]

I loved Adolin in this book, but I also get your criticisms of his character arcs. I think it comes from him almost being a main character, but not quite. I'm expecting him to be a big player in the next book, especially since it seems Maya is waking up. My biggest issue with this book was the plot convenience of Navani writing her notes down, even though she was trying to keep them from falling into Raboniel's hands. She suspected what Raboniel could do with them, but she did it anyway. Sanderson tried a half-ass justification of it, but it just felt SUPER convenient to me.

[@Mjot101]

Maya finally speaking at the trail low key might be my new favourite moment in book history

[@Mjot101]

Definitely passes “honour is dead but I’ll what I can do” as my favourite stormlight moment