The Way of Kings No Spoiler Review (I was wrong about Sanderson)

The Way of Kings No Spoiler Review (I was wrong about Sanderson)
The Way of Kings no spoiler review is here! I finally understand all the hype surrounding The Way of Kings and the Cosmere in general. This book has improved my opinion of Brandon Sanderson as an author so much! I think The Way of Kings is one of the best fantasy books OF ALL TIME. So sit back and enjoy The Way of Kings no spoiler review.
#booktube #thewayofkings #brandonsanderson

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Here is the Captured in Words recap I suggested in the video for AFTER you read the book. kzbin.info/www/bejne/roHNcoF5fad0m5Y

[@ClayHales]

I'm more OK with "Storming" being a swear word here, because the storms will literally kill you. Leaving someone out unprotected in the storms is a form of capital punishment.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I like that take on it actually

[@flutebasket4294]

It's still stupid

[@wyldeman7]

I absolutely love how they use the word storm for various things. "stormfather!" for god! "storm off" for f off. I think that whole thing is fantastic

[@wizthrift]

Yeah that's the point haha

[@corbanbausch9049]

@@flutebasket4294 and our swear words being synonyms for poop and sex isn't?

[@brettmurray2473]

As a person with a science background myself.... Just wait until Rhythm of War 👀

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I have a review for all four books now! I was onto something about those Spren being important huh haha

[@spencerhale120]

Lol yeah

[@janhavi1977]

The Way of Kings was absolutely amazing! I went right into the second book, I was so hyped! Kaladin is definitely my favorite character. His story of overcoming depression and encouraging everyone else around him to not give up, was so inspiring!

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Each character in their own right was inspiring for sure, really love the diverse cast. I didn't mention Jasnah and I'm mad at myself for it, I thought she was soooo well done.

[@wyldeman7]

at times him and syl remind me of guts and puck.

[@BFPerry220]

If Kaladin or Szveth wasnt there I wasnt as interested. Dalinar is really interesting but besides his visions its slow.

[@caspianrobins7756]

Haven't quite finished The Way of Kings (994 pages in) but I already love it. I love Kaladin, and Dalinar especially.

[@nicktankard1244]

Those made-up swear words is one of my favorite things about Stormlight. Absolutely adore them.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Nothing wrong with that! There's something for everyone in Stormlight!

[@nicktankard1244]

The Fantasy Nuttwork it’s just you and Alex hate it so much I don’t get it. Maybe it’s because I’m not a native English speaker.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

@@nicktankard1244 maybe, but really it's just a difference of tastes, nothing wrong with that :-)

[@thecodydunn]

I had a more difficult time with the made up swear words in print. I listened to the audio version as well, and I found that the made up words were far less bothersome. In fact, I ended up finding myself using the made up swears in real life! 😂. That's when I knew I was in DEEP. Lol

[@alanrice6077]

yeah i think that custom swear words are very realistic since they literally exist in our own world and just help to add depth to the story.

[@thecodydunn]

A lot of people dislike Shallan the most, but she is one of my favorite characters in this series as well!

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Sounds like they're all wrong and we are right hahah

[@studynot757]

@@thefantasynuttwork haha. She grows on you through the books, though my low point with her was Oathbringer. I loved her arc culmination in Rhythm of War

[@sonfoku73]

I think she has her ups and downs through the books. She was less a character and moreso a world-device in Way of Kings, amazing in WoR, kinda annoying in Oathbringer, great in RoW.

[@tudornaconecinii3609]

@@studynot757 For me it was exactly the opposite haha. I actually *loved* Shallan in Way of Kings and then she actually went down for me, and in Rhythm she doesn't even make my top 10. Dalinar never left my #1 spot however.

[@CurieBohr]

I found her chapters moved slow. Early in her story is that she wants to steal a stone. Compared to bridge 4 slaves, kings drawing storm blades, fighting huge beasts, assassins, her chapters were meh.

[@NGill-pt1vr]

Just a point on the connected universe - I'd disagree with the characterization that you need to read other Cosmere books for the impactful moments in Stormlight Archive to work. The impactful moments in each novel are entirely self-contained, it's more that there are certain Easter eggs that tie-in to other novels. For example (Mild Spoiler) Wit is a recurring character in every Cosmere book, but he has *by far* the most characterization in Stormlight Archive (he's just mentioned in Mistborn/Elantris a few times as a random extra, and tells a story in Warbreaker). There are also a few characters in later books that come from other Cosmere worlds, but the only thing you'd get by reading books describing their worlds is more insight into who they are - their purpose in Stormlight is to hint that the universe is bigger than the characters on Roshar know. If you're just reading Stormlight, you know as much about them as the Stormlight characters do.

[@Mjstcblnde]

I'd agree you don't NEED to read the other cosmere books, but you get so much more out of this series having read them, especially in (Slight Spoiler) RoW where he directly mentions the other worlds and those other-world characters really shine and the Cosmere plot threads are showing. I think it's clear that the connected universe is going to be extremely relevant in later Stormlight books.

[@fionnbc]

Its good to know the other worlds i think just because of the magic systems whether is having breaths and awakening things or allomancy i think with the expansion of this universe its going to be important to see characters in roshar using other forms of investiture. Ive read stormlight twice and mistborn twice and also in reread you learn little tidbits of info. Spoilers coming up: We see Wit has at least emotional allomacy aswel as breath besides bonding a cryptic that is fucking great and see in book 4 of stormlight Also the presence of vasher and vivenna very powerfull awakeners in roshar + fucking nightblood that does what he does in book 4.

[@chrisjoyal7176]

@@fionnbc I agree. Once nightblood shows up and starts impacting the main plot in stormlight book 3 and 4, you can toss out the sentiment that you don't need to read other cosmere novels. specifically with regards to warbreaker. probably with more books down the road, because with mistborn, sanderson has mentioned that that series is trending towards intergalactic travel in mistborn era 4, and could have more of a direct impact on other worlds

[@TheEnthraller]

@@chrisjoyal7176 kelsier is in RoW And if you've read prologue to book 5 then it's all the confirmation that you need The undercurrents from other worlds can be felt in storm light archive world

[@slecuyer21]

Sneaking chapters in at work has been EXACTLY what I’ve been doing this week. What a gripping book. The world is so engrossing.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

It's one I want to revisit often

[@Nate9-9]

I think what really helped Kallidan's character for me was his interactions with Syl. If this is the case, I guess you could argue Syl was the stronger character, but all the same, it helped me like Kal more.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Syl was one of the brightest spots of this book

[@studynot757]

Kaladin is mostly my favorite character because he is the ... spear tip (sorry) of the Windrunner order and their ideals are what call to me the most.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

@@studynot757 😂

[@doriangreg1601]

I was so scared when picking this book up as my first from Brandon, mostly because of how long it was. I have ADD and cannot go through so many pages at once. But behold, up there in my favorites, which I read and finished in a week. I love this book so much I can't believe it myself

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I'm so glad it worked out for you

[@BLOckOus]

Way to go gancho! 😁

[@enicole1203]

When RJJ kicked it before WOT was finished, I told myself I wouldn't start another series unless it was already complete. I picked up Way of Kings. The size made me think it was a standalone, and I got so into it that I was 100 pages from the end when I realized there was no possible way to wrap up all the storylines in that space. Imagine my surprise when I found out the plans for Stormlight Archive!🤣🤣

[@tracydodd5553]

The ending was pretty spectacular, go bridge four!

[@jeganka]

i remember when i first read this book. breezed through it, felt like a movie i was living in. i hope they **do not** make a TV series out of it!!

[@thefantasynuttwork]

It would be a tough one to adapt!

[@GaudyVenus6]

I believe Brandon mentioned in a live stream that there is a possibility we will get a tv adaptation of storm light but not for a long time as that’s the one he wants to be the most careful with.

[@mindayapandapatan8467]

Shallan is the central character in Words of Radiance, then Dalinar in Oathbringer.

[@bergy4367]

I remember getting back into reading I heard great things about this book but for a first book back it was massive but I said screw it and decided to give it a shot and man I was not disappointed It may be a 1000 page book but it was a fast read for me I was reading 150 to almost 200 pages a day and had to stop myself from reading more. I have not read the second book yet but TWOK was imo one of the best books I ever read.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I totally agree, and honestly even with that reaction to TWOK, Words of Radiance is even better.

[@TomBob88]

The Way of Kings took me a little bit to get into for some reason. But once I did it blew me away and is quickly coming up on my most read book. The foreshadowing and depth that is still relevant in Oathbringer and RoW, after reading them both I immediately went back and reread WoK and there're name drops and and little hints that have only just come to light what they are in of RoW. For instance I was listening to the audio book earlier in the year and realized in WoK a a name is casually dropped that comes up again at the end of RoW and goes into more depth so you can figure who it is it's a massive revelation not just for Stormlight but the Cosmere at large.

[@SadisticBlessings]

Awesome review, agreed on almost all points - I quite liked Mistborn on my first read years ago (the two sequels a bit less so), but on my re-read the repetitiveness of the character interactions really did start to grate on me (stop cocking your head, Vin!). Having just finished Way of Kings, though, I was struck by just how much Sanderson's prose has improved. In spite of its length, I just couldn't put this one down. Also, while I liked all of the characters, by the end I was 100% on Team Dalinar. His final scene with King Elkohar was an incredible character moment, ending with that epic mic drop... "Your mother and I are now courting. You'll want to start growing accustomed to that." I literally burst out laughing at the audacity.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Thanks! Dalinar is the man!

[@cpolt1192]

Yes Dalinar all the way! Syl is cool too.😊

[@enaidiZ]

Surprised to hear you didn't like Kaladin so much, he made the book for me from the beginning. I think the thing that was most engaging to me about him was the development of his attitude towards healing/saving others. It's tied into almost every major interaction and we see how it gets highlighted at every stage of his life this far. I don't really see him as self righteous, especially since he's like 19, I saw him more as clinging to the ideals everyone is supposed to live up to, because thats the only thing he can hold onto cause he has nothing else.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

To be fair, I still like him lol and I definitely love him in book 2

[@Ivory207]

yeah when i first read it, i sometimes skipped to kaladin's chapters. i re-read the series 2x afterwards lol

[@nicodemogawronski2052]

Kaladin is the favourite character of a lot of readers. I think what I like about him apart from his epic moments, is the fact that is suffering from some mental illness and that's not an easy subject for any books. Blackthorn has an amazing backstory. You will see in book 3 :)

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Good to know! Starting book 3 next week!

[@nicodemogawronski2052]

@@thefantasynuttwork Enjoy :)

[@megamicromanager2449]

And it's realistic from my point because his episodes are recurring. It's not like certain stories where 'oh, i got over it, im good now' main leads. Thats good in my op

[@chazza_za2270]

I was always a bit hesitant about picking up any of Sanderson's work, mostly because I'm not into big magic systems, but I have considered the stormlight archive... and now seeing how it's been reviewed here, I just have to take the leap and read it :)

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Give it a shot! The magic system is explained pretty well in the back of the book. It definitely helped me!

[@chazza_za2270]

@@thefantasynuttwork Well in that case I certainly have no excuses now! Brandon Sanderson, here I come.

[@Danny_Matson]

Excellent! Looking forward to your thoughts on the next two, Oathbringer especially.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Hoping to get my WoR review up soon!

[@PetrikLeo]

Yeah! I'm so glad this is working for you much better than Mistborn. Great review! Kaladin and Dalinar are my favorite characters from the series, for sure, I hope you'll warm up to Kaladin more, but if not no worries! As long that you're enjoying this series! By the way, regarding that in-world curses, I totally understand your feeling. I think for me, it depends on the word itself, too. But storms and storming were definitely awkward to me at first! Now I'm more used to it, but it's one that took a long time for me to get used to.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Thanks for watching my friend! I think the invented swear words just need more weight to them, storm feels like such a light word haha

[@smaug1234]

The interludes were a great addition to this series, particularly at the start, It's not something I would think I want, breaking up the main story like that, but it gives needed world building in trickles, hints at the bigger picture, and are just fun. The book just would not work without them. The characters and world are more intriguing in this series for me, I liked all the past Brandon cosmere books, loved what he did to finish WOT, but this series is on a different level, it reeks of imagination and not just from the epic nature of the magic system in this one.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Yeah the interludes are some of my favorite parts of Stormlight now

[@barrilrayder]

I completely agree with you, I'm just like fifty pages into the way of kings and I'm really liking it and understanding all the good and over the top comments I have always heard of Sanderson, as you, before jumping into this book I had only read Mistborn (the first one), and I liked that book but didn't understand why everyone said that was like the best fantasy book in the last fifteen years, I mean, the story and characters was fine, but just fine, off course the magic system drives everyone crazy, and I get it, it's so cool but apart from that it was just fine. Really like your channel. I would like to hear your thoughts on A song of ice and fire.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Thanks!! I agree with pretty much all you said. I'll definitely do more ASOIAF content, it's my all time favorite series!

[@drsaumyasingh4941]

If I ever got the Aladdin's magic lamp, I would surely wish for a book with Sanderson's world building and Robin Hobb's character development...🤩 (It would scare me though like watching so much brilliance in one place blind me somehow😅)

[@cosyreadingtimes8857]

Definitely agree with you, that Sanderson shines more in the long form. I noticed that once again comparing my experience reading Warbreaker in January (which just wasn't it, too much stuff crammed into too little pages and everything lacking a bit of depth for me) and Oathbringer in February-March (which became my favourite Stormlight book. Especially Dallinar's backstory I really loved). The world is probably what I loved the most about Stormlight so far. It just felt very vivid to me. Spren are amazing, Syl is probably my favourite Sanderson character. And I love the pacing as well. Really love your reviews and how you take your time to actually explain why you felt about a book the way you did. Such a great job, each and every time👍❤️

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I really appreciate that compliment. It's what I strive to do each and every time. Sometimes I get it right and sometimes I don't haha Yeah I'm with you. Warbreaker was like almost great to me, lots of good but maybe could have been longer. As far as Stormlight goes I'm definitely most into it for the world building and most of these great characters. As of ROW I'm not sure if I love the plot as much as I once did but I'm definitely still invested deeply and eagerly await book 5

[@bryanvalerius1992]

About 100 pages into The Way of Kings. I must say that it is totally awesome, not disappointed at all. Can't wait to finish so that I can start the next 3 in the series. Keep the videos coming.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Happy you're enjoying it!!

[@bagelman2634]

I loved this book as well. At first, I was mostly interested in Kaladin’s story, but Shallan’s is what I was most invested in by the end of it. I really want to see the developments of the different magics in the later books.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

It's such a fun time 🤠

[@shadowoflugia]

I read the Way of Kings back in 2012, so it’s been 11-12 years lol. I’ll be rereading it this year and then reading the rest. The only thing I remember from the Way of Kings is Kaladin being left to die in a box during a sandstorm. That was such a good scene.

[@jeffcampbell6701]

I can't believe how often and how much I agree with your reviews.

[@DinoKaric1]

Love the book. I'm listening to it on audible but definitely planning on buying a physical copy. Shout out to Kate Reading and Michael Kramer who do a wonderful job narrating.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Great audiobook for sure

[@MorbidGuardian]

So, I'm a few years late, here. But I also read Mistborn first, before Stormlight, and like you didn't jive with it. Got into Stormlight later, completely on a whim, and loved it. Funny enough, I recently went back to Mistborn and enjoyed it a lot more the second time around. It still doesn't really hold a candle to Stormlight, but I found myself finding much more to enjoy. I don't really know what changed. Maybe I knew not to expect quite as much and was just able to relax and enjoy it for what it was (which, to be fair, the books definitely have plenty of strengths even if there are more blatant weaknesses, too).

[@alexnieves]

Storm you Jimmy! I hate the silly substitute swear words as well, it's so damn goofy to me. Great review though and welcome back my friend. I'm about 250 pages in at the moment and feel like I've barely scratched the surface.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Storming storm storm! Hahah man it's the worst, I'm so glad I'm not the only one who hates it 😂😂 I appreciate the welcome back and you checking out the video. I think you'll love it and I'm pumped to hear your thoughts on it as always. Your channel has me wanting to fit some damn Dresden in this year 👀

[@kaytlinhowardmangelson7300]

Its funny - i actually love the curses. Its such a good way to contribute to world bulding. Of course, people would use different curses in different worlds. It also is one of the easiest ways to identify world hoppers.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

@@kaytlinhowardmangelson7300 totally fair, and it's gonna work for some people and not for others of course. I just think the word storm seems weak and not sharp enough. Thats just me though haha

[@vladskii9779]

I've also hated them.. Until I started using them irl...

[@thefantasynuttwork]

@@vladskii9779 oh no 😂

[@bryanvalerius1992]

Great video. I actually just bought The Way Of Kings. Just started reading it, and "OMG", the action is already amazing.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I hope you enjoy, it's a wild ride!

[@thatnerdjake]

I'm about 400 pages in to this book and I'm really enjoying myself. I know I'm late to the party but I just keep seeing people talk about how good this series is. I haven't really read fantasy since high school being that I'm 31 now this has been a fun book to get back into reading the genre. Thank you for the review!

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Enjoy!!

[@niebieskie2]

Great Review, love your enthusiasm for the spren! And Same, this reminds me that I still haven't read Rhythm of War

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Thank you!

[@Auron200004]

So I took a long break from reading (like many, high school and more so college kind of briefly burned the desire out of me). I had read the Wheel of Time and ASoIaF, and loved them in the past. I jumped back into fantasy with Way of Kings because Daniel Greene so heavily recommended Stormlight. No regrets so far haha

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Great choice! Daniels Stormlight content is top notch, he's influenced me a lot

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Let's discuss The Way of Kings!!!!! Who's your favorite character and why!? PLEASE NO SPOILERS FOR BOOKS 2 and 3!!!

[@jessicagomez4737]

Shallan is my favorite character because of her DID. I think Sanderson did an excellent job portraying DID with Shallan. I liked her even more in the books after (although I might be in the minority)

[@thefantasynuttwork]

@@jessicagomez4737 she's an exceptional character, I found her interactions with Jasnah to be some of my favorite in the book!

[@moonam.789]

Kaladin is my favourite, followed by Dalinar!

[@thefantasynuttwork]

@@moonam.789 dalinar is my dude!!

[@eggmansizzle]

Dalinar is easily my favorite character. "For my honor? Unquestionably."

[@Sameranth]

Just happened to see this on my recommended! Enjoyed the video and I’ll probably be checking out more of your content. I’d like to say that I think you did good by reading Warbreaker. Not my favorite of his books, but you’ll be glad you read it by the time you get to book 2. The novellas between the storm light books (only Edgedancer between books 2 and 3 is out right now) are quick reads so they aren’t as much as a struggle as WB was.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it! I finished WOR and loved it. I'll review soon on the channel. Gonna read ED and then OB after I finish Trouble With Peace next week!!

[@Sameranth]

The Fantasy Nuttwork Looking forward to your videos! Dawnshard, the novella between OB and RoW is expected to be published on kindle in October(not sure when physical release will be.) Rysn, the Thaylen merchant apprentice that appeared in several interludes will be the main character I believe.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

@@Sameranth that's extremely hype! I thought those interludes were among the best

[@craigwatson9151]

Love the review....new fan..great job love the name lol

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Thanks!

[@zorloc111]

I'm about half-way through way of kings right now and a lot of your opinions are my own. I really like the pacing so far. This is my first Sanderson book and I am very impressed.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I'm glad you're enjoying it 🤠

[@NeverEndingKarla]

I felt the same way about Sanderson after reading Mistborn, so it’s reassuring to hear that The Way of Kings changed your opinion! I just picked it up and although the size is intimidating, I’m a little more excited about the journey after watching your video.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Glad to hear it! It’s a slow burn but imo one of his best books

[@jessieshores4865]

Interesting. "storm it" and in world slang, or profanity is one of my favorite immersion tools. I'll catch myself USING the words if the series is long enough sometimes. Lol

[@thefantasynuttwork]

There's other worlds where I do enjoy it more, it's also nice when you have a friend who knows it as well so you can talk in code 🤣

[@nataliaweronikapetersson3425]

I literally fell asleep multiple times reading Mistborn. I read The Way of Kings in 5 days (having full time job and two kids below age of 7). Yes, Sanderson is good. Greatness confirmed.

[@fluffypenguins]

Agree completely with your mistborn view and I really like stormlight

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Glad we agree 😊

[@MrCaptainZach]

The Kholins are awesome don’t know if I like Dalinar or Adolin more

[@TokyoBlue587]

Thanks for a spoiler free review! I just started reading it, but most other reviews give spoilers so I can’t watch them. Anyway it’s pretty interesting so far!

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Glad you enjoyed it! I hate spoilers so I try to be as spoiler free as possible here on the channel. Thanks for watching!

[@relytdragon5626]

By the comments it seems as though you've already read the rest of the series, but I will still say this, if perhaps anyone wants to know. While one can read the Cosmere as essentially one big epic fantasy, which is what I am doing, there is no need. One could simply read any series in the cosmere and stop there. While reading warbreaker can enhance parts of The Stormlight Archive, the series is still mostly self contained, though it is by far the most connected of the cosmere. One could read SA and understand everything the story needs you to, and you will have many hints pieces of more, but at least so far this more still is only important in the Cosmere epic as a whole. So recap: reading other cosmere books enhances the experience, with any of the series, but it is not entirely required.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Yeah I agree, though I think Warbreaker is probably worth it, plus it's a pretty good book as well. I'm all caught up on Stormlight, sad I gotta wait a few years to read the next one haha

[@user-ky2fy8ht5l]

I'm glad I'm not the only one that wasn't impressed by misborn but thought he improved a lot in storm light!

[@muttineni03]

Great review, I've got all 4 hardcovers but just intimidated by its scale to start, am half way through Hero of ages now, maybe I'll start reading Way of kings in couple of months 😃

[@thefantasynuttwork]

It's one of those series where you'll get going then all the sudden you only have 50 pages left and be very sad there aren't thousands more pages haha

[@muttineni03]

@@thefantasynuttwork I like what I hear from you about this book, I'll give it a go probably next month :)

[@Nate9-9]

Different cultures, and regions in the real world have their own swear words, so i dont think that should bother you too much.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

It's just a me thing haha

[@88michaelandersen]

For me it goes the other way. When I am reading fantasy and find our swear words or slang in it my first thought is ``why would they come up with the same swear words or slang?''

[@RuYevon]

Thanks for sharing, I had similar feelings about Mistborn but I feel like giving him a second chance now.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I think you will have a good chance of enjoying Way of Kings 😄

[@christinebell1939]

I absolutely agree with you about the Inclusion of quantum mechanics in the series!!

[@thefantasynuttwork]

so fun!

[@timpage9424]

I loved Mistborn and now im 300 pages into The Way of Kings and loving it. Can't wait.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Yes!

[@wheelhouse15]

I think his work on Wheel of Time, trying to write more in the style of Jordan, really helped him to write this series.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I could see that

[@maroonmuffin]

Scud this review was so storming good.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Hahah thank you!

[@jessand01]

...and a few years later you still talk about how great this book is in my new favorite podcast "lost in Roshar":)

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Yes yes I do! Haha

[@stello4n0gaming6]

My favorite is the Shallan and Jasnah story arc!

[@javierrodriguez-batllori733]

I love how you expose your thoughts even if i agree or disagree with some of them, you made a very valid criticism in all of its points

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I appreciate that a lot. I've gotten much better since this video too, it's something I'm always working on

[@gabebarnes2254]

Just wait, IMO they just get better & better, the stakes continue to rise, characters become more fleshed out & the action is just amazing. Can’t wait to see your WOR review

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Thanks so much! I just finished Warbreaker and now will start WoR

[@thatsci-firogue]

I was worried I wouldn't, but I'm really enjoying the re-read so far.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I just finished a reread and enjoyed it. I remember the magic of the first time experiencing it which helped drag me through some of the slower parts

[@craigwatson9151]

I love the storm cuss words ...I don't understand why you didnt?

[@panamike6178]

I needed something to scratch that itch after finishing the kingkiller chronicles. I came across this book when reading the wise mans fears reviews on good reads. I saw that way of kings got a 4.6/5 on good reads, which is the harshest book critic out there, so I knew it was a good choice to start this series.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

It’s a fun adventure!

[@bryanvalerius1992]

What do you think of The Witcher series. Have you read them. Do you have any reviews on them. Just curious.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I haven't but they're absolutely on my TBR. MASSIVE fan of all the games

[@faville]

I got the mass market version, probably because this is my first Sanderson book. When I started Game of Thrones I bought the bigger trade paperback and it fell apart. Hopefully it clicks with me. I bailed after book 4 of WoT and GoT, and one book of Malazan.

[@psienriquegavarrete2646]

Hello. I have a question. I tried to read the first book of Mistborn and I felt very bored and it made me sleepy (that does not happens to me often) so I left it. Is it necessary to read Mistborn first? I am very interested on The Way of Kings. Greetings and you make very good videos.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

It is not necessary to read Mistborn firsy

[@psienriquegavarrete2646]

@@thefantasynuttwork many thanks.

[@eroz84]

Ive had this book ( The Way Of Kings) for a year and finally got into it a week ago. Definitely starting to enjoy it. Mistborn was a great series and the reason I decided to give The Stormlight Archive a chance

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Awesome!!

[@ral1334]

I found Kaladin a little tedious myself. He was like a cross between Judah Ben-Hur and Pollyanna, just a bit too perfect to be relatable. I enjoyed the novel nonetheless though, and especially loved Szeth-son-son-Vallano. I hope his character gets more of a starring role later in the series.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Yes, Szeth is pretty great

[@devoringdemonsoulq9086]

@@thefantasynuttwork it can’t at the same level of storm of swords…

[@separator94]

I'm interested in Stormlight but have never read epic fantasy before. Would I be getting in over my head with The Way of Kings or is it easy to follow?

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I don't think so! Brandon writes in a way that is super approachable and is part of his huge success.just take your time and have fun!

[@separator94]

@@thefantasynuttwork Awesome. Thanks so much for the reply. I downloaded it to my kindle.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

@@separator94 awesome!!! Let me know how you like it!

[@craigwatson9151]

I love the struggle...Kal reminds me of rand in a weird way...I want to eat some of rocks soup lol

[@DirtySwagg19]

i respect your opinion of course im just very surprised kaladin was your least favorite. I absolutely love everything about kaladin

[@thefantasynuttwork]

If you watch my other reviews I've really come around to him 😁

[@DirtySwagg19]

@@thefantasynuttwork Ill have to do that right now

[@thefantasynuttwork]

@@DirtySwagg19 I support this action 😂 But really, thanks for checking out my video!

[@reesecv1968]

The way of kings doesn’t feel like it drags at all for me. It feels like 3-4 different stories collaged into one with slight intermingling.

[@craigwatson9151]

Would love to see this book as a movie... And edge dancer...is badass

[@warbrothers7745]

I also can't past about three chapters of Mistborn. I'm hoping like you, the way of kings' changes my mind.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I hope it's better for you!

[@mrsduncanthetall]

I don't know if i ever told you this.but this is the video that made me sub to your channel. 🤠😘. 😂😂😂 ps im not stalking for some reason it came under my red country book review search.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Hahah that's awesome!!!

[@incitatus4227]

I couldn't wait any longer and decided to start TWoK while still finishing Deadhouse Gates. So curious if it can turn around my opinion on him as an author, because Mistborn made me realize that no promise of a good plot can make me look over prose that I don't enjoy. Hopefully this is the book that will make me love Sanderson's books!

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I hope so!

[@incitatus4227]

@@thefantasynuttwork I did read a bit, but there is one thing that keeps me from reading further, and it's the fact that, apparently, Rhythm of War has a lot of important Cosmere references, and the coming books will have even more of them, Sanderson said. How was your reading experience in that regard? I know you have a RoW review, but I don't want to spoil myself 😅 Didn't seem like you read so much Cosmere stuff beforehand as well :)

[@thefantasynuttwork]

@@incitatus4227 you’ll be ok!

[@incitatus4227]

@@thefantasynuttwork Thanks!! Googling didn't really help, so this is great to hear :)

[@MissCaraMint]

I mean I don’t think you need to read Warbreaker before Words of Radiance. I didn’t. Sure I didn’t get a certain reference at the time, but I had fun readin Warbreaker and retroactively fitting it into what I read in WoR instead.

[@knightofiron]

This, very much. Retroactively figuring it out was awesome. And the big thing is, nothing from Warbreaker is actually relevant to the Stormlight Archive's plot, and was designed that way so that you specifically didn't have to read it first.

[@irishknight6893]

Yo here is my reading list and why should I buy way of kings and make it number one to read ? “Finish Neon Rain by James Lee Burke ,Before they are hanged,blood meridian,last argument of kings,war breaker,best served cold,lies of Locke lamora,the name of the wind “ thanks !

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I'd get it but for my money hard to top Abercrombie

[@yasminmussolino690]

I so want that room, it's like a dream

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Haha thanks!

[@ElGalloUltimo]

Totally agreed on all points, particularly Kaladin.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Glad you enjoyed, thanks!

[@taylorkeon5864]

I loved these books and read them faster and more obsessively than many things, but the characters seem one dimensional to me. Not the right description, but reminds me of LOST. Like, oh Kaladin wants to save everyone and that’s the root of everything ever. The end. Okay, Jack (again, lost). Still listening as I comment. Don’t remember how long the first took me to read, but I could not put the series down once I got invested. And yes, his magic system is not hard sci fi stuff but all of his cosmere magic seems legit enough to enjoy it by accepting it as magic but making it feel scientific or logical

[@birdog23]

it takes me awhile to get into books, when does the book start to get you hooked? like what chapter if anyone can share

[@thefantasynuttwork]

It's definitely a slow burn, could be 300 pages but it just depends

[@birdog23]

@@thefantasynuttwork past 300 now and can confirm, incredible book

[@craigwatson9151]

I didn't even know who brandon was untill he finished the wot books...thats when I fell in love with Sanderson...then I read the way of kings.....one of the best books I ever read...

[@joshrees347]

Love the US covers of the storm light archive compared to the ones in the uk

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I need to check out the UK ones!

[@joshrees347]

White background for all of them then red and black colours with an image of something representing each book. Need to start this series before November. Can be in date for my signed edition of rythym of war!👌

[@thefantasynuttwork]

@@joshrees347 you can start now and read a long with me! Haha That leather anniversary of Way of Kings is GORGEOUS

[@joshrees347]

Sounds good. Wanna buddy read it?

[@joshrees347]

Ah looks so good!😍

[@adamantianpassey]

I've discovered that the best order to read his books to get the full cosmere experience is to read them in the order they were released. I suspect this will become more and more important as the cosmere progresses.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Makes sense to me

[@jimboskii2555]

This was my entry point into the Cosmere due to a friend who’s not a big mistborn fan

[@jujubean9063]

You got the wave particle thing backwards, but I’m sure it was a slip of the tongue. Stormlight is Amazing.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I'm a bit rusty lol

[@jujubean9063]

I agreed with your assessments on Sanderson Mistborn and Warbreaker, however, I really enjoyed them for what they were. Elantris is one of his least popular books but it might be my favorite. I know it’s simple, but there is something about that story that hooked me. I couldn’t put it down. Keep up the great vids.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

@@jujubean9063 thank you Harley! I'm gonna read Elantris eventually for sure, I LOVED emperor's soul

[@coltseavers6298]

My one maine issue that I am having with this series is Sanderson's very average prose. If an author has good/great prose I then find myself re-reading sections that I have just read. Not so here. I did this a LOT for The Wheel of Time. Syl is become one of my favorite fantasy characters right now.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Syl is amazing!!! I think his prose is very average but his pacing helps me forgive it usually.

[@sirgoo9962]

I find his prose specifically cinematic

[@corbanbausch9049]

I think his prose is just fine for what he's writing. His books are already very lore-heavy, complicated and multi-faceted, and so adding poetic or flowery prose would, in my opinion, would be just...too much. He writes his books very straightforward and to the point, allowing it to essentially disappear and the things that are actually important to rise to the surface.

[@brandonmack111]

If you haven't read his newer Mistborn books, do. You'll find he has grown significantly as an author since he wrote the first Mistborn trilogy.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I'll be reading it in2022 for sure! I'm actually excited for it

[@MissCaraMint]

Well I think what makes a good book exists on several scales. Sanderson has ok writing, but excels in world building and storytelling. Then of course there is the magic system. If he had less of those assets then the prose itself would need to step it up to be on the same level, but sines he does have them the prose becomes secondary in importance.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Yep! Many factors in what makes a good book

[@DonovanGG__]

You wanna know how I feel whenever I read the Stormlight Archive? Well, here you go. Yeah 7:30 in the night, yeah Ooh-ooh, ooh I get those goosebumps every time, yeah, you come around, yeah You ease my mind, you make everything feel fine Worried 'bout those comments, I'm way too numb, yeah It's way too dumb, yeah I get those goosebumps every time, I need the Heimlich Throw that to the side, yeah I get those goosebumps every time, yeah, when you're not around (straight up) When you throw that to the side, yeah (it's lit) I get those goosebumps every time, yeah 713 through the 281, yeah I'm ridin' Why they on me? Why they on me? I'm flyin', sippin' low-key I be sippin' low-key in Onyx, rider, rider When I'm pullin' up right beside ya Pop star, lil' Mariah When I text, kick game, knowledge Throw a stack on the Bible Never Snapchat or took molly She fall through plenty, her and all her ginnies, yeah We at the top floor, right there off Doheny, yeah Oh no, I can't f with y'all, yeah When I'm with my squad I cannot do no wrong, yeah Saucin' in the city, don't get misinformed, yeah They gon' pull up on you (brrt, brrt, brrt) Yeah, we gon' do some things, some things you can't relate Yeah, 'cause we from a place, a place you cannot stay Oh, you can't go, oh, I don't know Oh, back the f up off me (brrt, brrt, brrt) I get those goosebumps every time, yeah, you come around, yeah You ease my mind, you make everything feel fine Worried 'bout those comments, I'm way too numb, yeah It's way too dumb, yeah I get those goosebumps every time, I need the Heimlich Throw that to the side, yeah I get those goosebumps every time, yeah, when you're not around When you throw that to the side, yeah I get those goosebumps every time Uh, I wanna press my like, yeah, I wanna press my I want a green light, I wanna be like I wanna press my line, yeah I wanna to take that ride, yeah I'm gonna press my line I want a green light, I wanna be like, I wanna press my Mama, dear, spare your feelings I'm relivin' moments, peelin' more residual I can buy the building, burn the building, take your b Rebuild the building just to f some more I can justify my love for you And touch the sky for God to stop debatin' war Put the p on a pedestal (ayy) Put the p on a high horse That p to die for That p to die for Peter Piper, picked a pepper So I could pick your brain and put your heart together We depart the shady parts and party hard, the diamonds yours The coupe forever My best shot, just might shoot forever like (brrt) I get those goosebumps every time, yeah, you come around, yeah You ease my mind, you make everything feel fine Worried 'bout those comments, I'm way too numb, yeah It's way too dumb, yeah I get those goosebumps every time, I need the Heimlich Throw that to the side, yeah I get those goosebumps every time, yeah, when you're not around When you throw that to the side, yeah I get those goosebumps every time

[@julians7268]

I will eventually get the physical copy, but I've been enjoying the audiobook.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Yeah audiobook is tremendous

[@captain4318]

Dont worry too much about the connected universe. You aren't missing out on anything of the book you read if you aren't into the Cosmere.

[@Mjstcblnde]

Yay someone else who likes Shallan! She is by far one of my favorite viewpoints to read and I was really surprised how many people really don't like her and find her annoying.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Later in book four there were a few things I didn't love execution wise, but she remains one of my favorite characters!!

[@ezrakirk4461]

Well I’m in! I’m reading it now!!!

[@thefantasynuttwork]

LETS GOOOOO

[@irenesantinelli2798]

Can I read The way of kings as my first Sanderson book or would it be better if I start with Elantris or Mistborn?

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I think The Way of Kings is a great way to begin reading Sanderson’s work!

[@ciaranirvine]

I'd not read any Sanderson at all before reading Way Of Kings - and still haven't read anything of his except the 4 Stormlight books. I have just picked up Warbreaker so I will get around to the rest of his books eventually, but you can happily just read only the Stormlight books

[@kiika.]

At first I wasn’t sure about reading it But after watching this not gonna lie im pretty excited

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I felt like it was a great intro, it's been over a year and I still feel that way. Even if Sanderson isn't my favorite author I can respect what he did with Way of Kings

[@JZETH_]

I'm on the side that WoA was actually very good because you saw some real growth between all of the characters. At the same time I could understand if some readers were put off by all of the dialogue. I felt like Zane should have been more of a key antagonist within the storytelling. Way of Kings was absolutely fantastic. Every character is really well fleshed out. I can see this being an absolute masterpiece series when it's all said and done. Great review man. I felt like Dalinar had a great arc. Kaladin and Bridge 4 had a lot of repeating moments but yes, I do really enjoy how Kaladin grew and worked his way through the depression he was facing. Powerful character.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

My big issue from WoA and Mistborn in general was I didn't connect with any of the characters. So when those big character moments did come I just didn't care all that much. I think Kaladin did have some repetitive moments but I think the end justified the journey but of course mileage will vary right haha Thanks dude!

[@Tutorial7a]

I was not terribly impressed by Mistborn. Like, there was a lot of really cool stuff, but I KNOW "the room fell silent for a moment. Vin shifted in her chair uncomfortably," you don't have to tell me again. It's a series I feel really suffered from being a book (which is not a normal phenomenon), but would have shined as a video game or some other visual medium. Stormlight is a lot better. I still don't "love" it like I do other series out there, but I do think it is very good. Still some things that just don't really resonate with me personally, but still quite good. His lectures and Q/A sessions, though, are absolutely fantastic. I enjoy those more than I do his work, which is a little backwards-feeling, but it's true. Love the insights he provides SO much!

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Agreed with much of what you said here. Without a doubt I would play a Mistborn game!!

[@sjajsjsja4523]

I'm halfway through, and my favorite piece of worldbuilding is how women write liner notes in texts and keep them secret from the men. I can't help but think this will be HUGE later on.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

Very well could be!

[@philippenachtergal6077]

I really don't think of Way of Kings as a normal entry point for Sanderson's works. The one exception might indeed be fans of Ice & Fire. Still, the Stormlight Archive (the saga with Way of Kings as first book) has more references to the Cosmere than most of Sanderson's books. The Cosmere is the universe inside of which most of Sanderson stories take place on various planets with various magic systems. (Mistborn, Elantris and Way of Kings all take place in the same universe but on different star systems) When you understand a few things about the Cosmere like the shards of adonalsium and who hoïd is, it is even more enjoyable.

[@thefantasynuttwork]

I agree that there is an extra layer of enjoyment and value here for cosmere readers