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The Stormlight Archive #1-4
The Stormlight Archive Series. 4 Books Collection Set. The Way of Kings, Words of Radiance, Oathbringer, Rhythm of War by Brandon Sanderson
The Stormlight Archive Series
The Way of Kings, 9780765376671
Words of Radiance, 9781250166531
Oathbringer, 9781250297143
Rhythm of War, 9781250757302
Brandon Sanderson
The Way of Kings, 9780765376671
Words of Radiance, 9781250166531
Oathbringer, 9781250297143
Rhythm of War, 9781250757302
Brandon Sanderson
4608 pages, Paperback
Published October 26, 2021
1886 people are currently reading
893 people want to read
About the author
Brandon Sanderson
469 books279k followersI’m Brandon Sanderson, and I write stories of the fantastic: fantasy, science fiction, and thrillers.
The release of Wind and Truth in December 2024—the fifth and final book in the first arc of the #1 New York Times bestselling Stormlight Archive series—marks a significant milestone for me. This series is my love letter to the epic fantasy genre, and it’s the type of story I always dreamed epic fantasy could be. Now is a great time to get into the Stormlight Archive since the first arc, which begins with Way of Kings, is complete.
During our crowdfunding campaign for the leatherbound edition of Words of Radiance, I announced a fifth Secret Project called Isles of the Emberdark, which came out in the summer of 2025. Coming December 2025 is Tailored Realities, my non-Cosmere short story collection featuring the new novella Moment Zero.
Defiant, the fourth and final volume of the series that started with Skyward in 2018, came out in November 2023, capping an already book-filled year that saw the releases of all four Secret Projects: Tress of the Emerald Sea, The Frugal Wizard’s Handbook for Surviving Medieval England, Yumi and the Nightmare Painter, and The Sunlit Man. These four books were all initially offered to backers of the #1 Kickstarter campaign of all time.
November 2022 saw the release of The Lost Metal, the seventh volume in the Mistborn saga, and the final volume of the Mistborn Era Two featuring Wax & Wayne. Now that the first arc of the Stormlight Archive is wrapped up, I’ve started writing the third era of Mistborn in 2025.
Most readers have noticed that my adult fantasy novels are in a connected universe called the Cosmere. This includes The Stormlight Archive, both Mistborn series, Elantris, Warbreaker, four of the five Secret Projects, and various novellas, including The Emperor’s Soul, which won a Hugo Award in 2013. In November 2016 all of the existing Cosmere short fiction was released in one volume called Arcanum Unbounded. If you’ve read all of my adult fantasy novels and want to see some behind-the-scenes information, that collection is a must-read.
I also have three YA series: The Rithmatist (currently at one book), The Reckoners (a trilogy beginning with Steelheart), and Skyward. For young readers I also have my humorous series Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians, which had its final book, Bastille vs. the Evil Librarians, released in 2022. Many of my adult readers enjoy all of those books as well, and many of my YA readers enjoy my adult books, usually starting with Mistborn.
Additionally, I have a few other novellas that are more on the thriller/sci-fi side. These include the three stories in Legion: The Many Lives of Stephen Leeds, as well as Perfect State and Snapshot. These two novellas are also featured in 2025’s Tailored Realities. There’s a lot of material to go around!
Good starting places are Mistborn (a.k.a. The Final Empire), Skyward, Steelheart, The Emperor’s Soul, Tress of the Emerald Sea, and Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians. If you’re already a fan of big fat fantasies, you can jump right into The Way of Kings.
I was also honored to be able to complete the final three volumes of The Wheel of Time, beginning with The Gathering Storm, using Robert Jordan’s notes.
Sample chapters from all of my books are available at brandonsanderson.com—and check out the rest of my site for chapter-by-chapter annotations, deleted scenes, and more.
The release of Wind and Truth in December 2024—the fifth and final book in the first arc of the #1 New York Times bestselling Stormlight Archive series—marks a significant milestone for me. This series is my love letter to the epic fantasy genre, and it’s the type of story I always dreamed epic fantasy could be. Now is a great time to get into the Stormlight Archive since the first arc, which begins with Way of Kings, is complete.
During our crowdfunding campaign for the leatherbound edition of Words of Radiance, I announced a fifth Secret Project called Isles of the Emberdark, which came out in the summer of 2025. Coming December 2025 is Tailored Realities, my non-Cosmere short story collection featuring the new novella Moment Zero.
Defiant, the fourth and final volume of the series that started with Skyward in 2018, came out in November 2023, capping an already book-filled year that saw the releases of all four Secret Projects: Tress of the Emerald Sea, The Frugal Wizard’s Handbook for Surviving Medieval England, Yumi and the Nightmare Painter, and The Sunlit Man. These four books were all initially offered to backers of the #1 Kickstarter campaign of all time.
November 2022 saw the release of The Lost Metal, the seventh volume in the Mistborn saga, and the final volume of the Mistborn Era Two featuring Wax & Wayne. Now that the first arc of the Stormlight Archive is wrapped up, I’ve started writing the third era of Mistborn in 2025.
Most readers have noticed that my adult fantasy novels are in a connected universe called the Cosmere. This includes The Stormlight Archive, both Mistborn series, Elantris, Warbreaker, four of the five Secret Projects, and various novellas, including The Emperor’s Soul, which won a Hugo Award in 2013. In November 2016 all of the existing Cosmere short fiction was released in one volume called Arcanum Unbounded. If you’ve read all of my adult fantasy novels and want to see some behind-the-scenes information, that collection is a must-read.
I also have three YA series: The Rithmatist (currently at one book), The Reckoners (a trilogy beginning with Steelheart), and Skyward. For young readers I also have my humorous series Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians, which had its final book, Bastille vs. the Evil Librarians, released in 2022. Many of my adult readers enjoy all of those books as well, and many of my YA readers enjoy my adult books, usually starting with Mistborn.
Additionally, I have a few other novellas that are more on the thriller/sci-fi side. These include the three stories in Legion: The Many Lives of Stephen Leeds, as well as Perfect State and Snapshot. These two novellas are also featured in 2025’s Tailored Realities. There’s a lot of material to go around!
Good starting places are Mistborn (a.k.a. The Final Empire), Skyward, Steelheart, The Emperor’s Soul, Tress of the Emerald Sea, and Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians. If you’re already a fan of big fat fantasies, you can jump right into The Way of Kings.
I was also honored to be able to complete the final three volumes of The Wheel of Time, beginning with The Gathering Storm, using Robert Jordan’s notes.
Sample chapters from all of my books are available at brandonsanderson.com—and check out the rest of my site for chapter-by-chapter annotations, deleted scenes, and more.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 23, 2024
Better than hoped for
I was looking for a new epic fantasy read, and decided to give stormlight a try, thinking I sort of knew what it would be about, and wow it was way more than that. Just fantastic.
I was looking for a new epic fantasy read, and decided to give stormlight a try, thinking I sort of knew what it would be about, and wow it was way more than that. Just fantastic.
November 10, 2023
Literally the best series I have ever read in my entire life! The absolute depth and content that these books hold is astounding!! I will forever and always hold this series near and dear to my heart 🤍 Brandon Sanderson is the most amazing and awe-inspiring author out there!
March 2, 2025
Brandon Sanderson's 'The Stormlight Archive' is distinguished by its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, driven largely by the depth and complexity of its characters. Kaladin's characterization, in particular, resonates with poignant authenticity, exploring themes of depression and internal struggle with a directness that strikes the reader. The depiction of mental health throughout the saga, with moments of great emotional intensity, demonstrates Sanderson's mastery of creating three-dimensional characters.
The exploration of interpersonal relationships and social dynamics in Roshar is presented with remarkable subtlety. The depiction of the caste system, exemplified by the distinction between light and dark eyes, is realistically developed, evolving as characters interact and question established norms. The depiction of slavery, especially in 'The Way of Kings', is dealt with sensitively, highlighting the psychological implications on the psyche of the characters concerned.
'The Way of Kings' stands as a masterful introductory work, establishing a complex and diverse world with an involving narrative. The introduction of the main characters, each with unique motivations and conflicts, is done with precision, laying the groundwork for their development throughout the saga.
'Words of Radiance' continues the expansion of Roshar's world, exploring Shallan Davar's past and deepening the relationships between the characters. The plot develops smoothly, keeping the reader's interest through the exploration of mysteries and personal conflicts.
'Oathbringer' is notable for its exploration of Dalinar Kholin's past, revealing his transformation from feared warrior to thoughtful leader. The plot unfolds with increasing intensity, culminating in scenes of great emotional impact.
'Rhythm of War', while featuring narrative elements that may be perceived as less relevant, maintains tension and interest throughout the plot. The exploration of the characters' internal conflicts and the presentation of new challenges contribute to the complexity of the saga.
In summary, 'The Stormlight Archive' stands as a sweeping work of epic fantasy, characterized by its emotional depth, detailed world-building, and exploration of complex themes. Brandon Sanderson's ability to create memorable characters and immersive plots ensures a rewarding reading experience.
The exploration of interpersonal relationships and social dynamics in Roshar is presented with remarkable subtlety. The depiction of the caste system, exemplified by the distinction between light and dark eyes, is realistically developed, evolving as characters interact and question established norms. The depiction of slavery, especially in 'The Way of Kings', is dealt with sensitively, highlighting the psychological implications on the psyche of the characters concerned.
'The Way of Kings' stands as a masterful introductory work, establishing a complex and diverse world with an involving narrative. The introduction of the main characters, each with unique motivations and conflicts, is done with precision, laying the groundwork for their development throughout the saga.
'Words of Radiance' continues the expansion of Roshar's world, exploring Shallan Davar's past and deepening the relationships between the characters. The plot develops smoothly, keeping the reader's interest through the exploration of mysteries and personal conflicts.
'Oathbringer' is notable for its exploration of Dalinar Kholin's past, revealing his transformation from feared warrior to thoughtful leader. The plot unfolds with increasing intensity, culminating in scenes of great emotional impact.
'Rhythm of War', while featuring narrative elements that may be perceived as less relevant, maintains tension and interest throughout the plot. The exploration of the characters' internal conflicts and the presentation of new challenges contribute to the complexity of the saga.
In summary, 'The Stormlight Archive' stands as a sweeping work of epic fantasy, characterized by its emotional depth, detailed world-building, and exploration of complex themes. Brandon Sanderson's ability to create memorable characters and immersive plots ensures a rewarding reading experience.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2025
Really hard to give this mammoth compilation of four 1000 page books justice in a review.
The overall impression from the books is how incredibly, mind-bogglingly detailed and well-built out is Roshan, but also the whole Cosmere universe. You can really fully live in this world so foreign from our own, yet fully fleshed out and alive.
The next impression is how incredibly satisfying the magic system is in the books. Few, if any, fantasy writers spend as much effort on creating a wholly rules-based magic system, where exploration, and really, scientific exploration, with the magic powers, often takes centre stage in the narrative.
The last impression is the incredible characters. They are all, as part of the core narrative of Radiants, fundamentally broken human beings, but following them in their struggles as much with themselves as with the external world, is what keeps you coming back to the books.
But this fantastic foundation notwithstanding, there are also glaring issues. The world building is excessive, taking hundreds of pages to add very little to the narrative, while showing some very intricate functioning of one corner of Roshan. The pure science classes when exploring the construction and limitations of radials.. are strangely interesting, but also just a drag. But what ultimately made me give up after the fourth book, probably never getting myself to read the fifth, is the endless, constantly recurring, bouts of self-doubt, depression and misery of the main characters. When they shine, and go beyond their limitations, the Thrill from finally getting some action is real, but the drag, and constant misery-build up, over and over again, is just tedious, and.. depressing.
I would have easily given these books a 5 if all these issues were addressed. Now it barely manages to get a 4, just saved from the glorious magic and world, but kept from really shining from the overly extensive scope.
The overall impression from the books is how incredibly, mind-bogglingly detailed and well-built out is Roshan, but also the whole Cosmere universe. You can really fully live in this world so foreign from our own, yet fully fleshed out and alive.
The next impression is how incredibly satisfying the magic system is in the books. Few, if any, fantasy writers spend as much effort on creating a wholly rules-based magic system, where exploration, and really, scientific exploration, with the magic powers, often takes centre stage in the narrative.
The last impression is the incredible characters. They are all, as part of the core narrative of Radiants, fundamentally broken human beings, but following them in their struggles as much with themselves as with the external world, is what keeps you coming back to the books.
But this fantastic foundation notwithstanding, there are also glaring issues. The world building is excessive, taking hundreds of pages to add very little to the narrative, while showing some very intricate functioning of one corner of Roshan. The pure science classes when exploring the construction and limitations of radials.. are strangely interesting, but also just a drag. But what ultimately made me give up after the fourth book, probably never getting myself to read the fifth, is the endless, constantly recurring, bouts of self-doubt, depression and misery of the main characters. When they shine, and go beyond their limitations, the Thrill from finally getting some action is real, but the drag, and constant misery-build up, over and over again, is just tedious, and.. depressing.
I would have easily given these books a 5 if all these issues were addressed. Now it barely manages to get a 4, just saved from the glorious magic and world, but kept from really shining from the overly extensive scope.
November 12, 2025
I don't know what Sanderson has been going through, but he has a profound ability to inject positivity into literature. Although, his characters go through severe trauma, they manage to keep moving forward and identifying the ideals that really matter/provide purpose. His books evolve from a focus on world mechanics and sociology to technological mechanics, societal change, and mental health. Or maybe that's a reflection on me; I remember reading the first book at a bus stop in 0-degree weather at a bus stop at 6am after pulling an all-niter. The book was the only pleasant part of my day. While Sanderson discusses the fallibility of hope, the book itself is an image of hope. I sometimes find myself disappointed that fantasy starts to seem samey and am reminded that this is the rest of my life, so I am reassured by the novelty Sanderson could provide to my existence and definition to this age of literature.
I say novelty from the standpoint that I do not have the ability to decompose a work of literature and identify what specifically an author did better than any other. But sometimes, even to a lay person, the distinction is obvious, and while somehow Sanderson cranks out literature, Sanderson's works are exceptional.
I say novelty from the standpoint that I do not have the ability to decompose a work of literature and identify what specifically an author did better than any other. But sometimes, even to a lay person, the distinction is obvious, and while somehow Sanderson cranks out literature, Sanderson's works are exceptional.
June 9, 2025
He does it all!
I love the extent to which Brandon has created characters I love dearly whose characterization drives the story, but he cooks up plots that are equally compelling. As a nonbinary reader, “hearing” Kaladin and other heroes using neutral pronouns for the Sibling without making it a big deal actually made me tear up a bit. I love these stories so much, and I cannot wait to crack open the fifth installment. This package is awesome in that it allows you to search a name or term and go back as far as the initial exposition to refresh your memory if you’re a slow reader with little free time like me, though Sanderson also does a great job of re-introducing concepts as they become relevant without redundancy. I had such fun following Shallan, Kaladin, Dalinar, Szeth, Adolin, Lift, and several more through their struggle to determine what is worth fighting for and to seek it while balancing very realistic mental and physical health struggles along the way. Tears were shed many times. This is my first series by Brandon Sanderson but with all the hints that Hoid and Sigzil are connected to other series in the Cosmere, I would be a fool to let it be my last.
I love the extent to which Brandon has created characters I love dearly whose characterization drives the story, but he cooks up plots that are equally compelling. As a nonbinary reader, “hearing” Kaladin and other heroes using neutral pronouns for the Sibling without making it a big deal actually made me tear up a bit. I love these stories so much, and I cannot wait to crack open the fifth installment. This package is awesome in that it allows you to search a name or term and go back as far as the initial exposition to refresh your memory if you’re a slow reader with little free time like me, though Sanderson also does a great job of re-introducing concepts as they become relevant without redundancy. I had such fun following Shallan, Kaladin, Dalinar, Szeth, Adolin, Lift, and several more through their struggle to determine what is worth fighting for and to seek it while balancing very realistic mental and physical health struggles along the way. Tears were shed many times. This is my first series by Brandon Sanderson but with all the hints that Hoid and Sigzil are connected to other series in the Cosmere, I would be a fool to let it be my last.
November 13, 2024
Really really good. excellent in many ways 4.5 stars
Really enjoyed it. Overall my only frustration with this fourth book is that there are several storylines that have been going on for a couple thousand pages so far and there is basically no clue the readers have been given to truly understand what is going on.
Ghostbloods agenda and membership? unknown after thousand of pages.
What really happened with the heralds and the radiants so long ago? Unknown.
Who or what Wit (Hoid) is? unknown.
what’s more frustrating is there are characters in the text who know the answer to these questions, they just haven’t been revealed to the audience yet. After several thousand pages that seems like a little much to ask.
Really enjoyed it. Overall my only frustration with this fourth book is that there are several storylines that have been going on for a couple thousand pages so far and there is basically no clue the readers have been given to truly understand what is going on.
Ghostbloods agenda and membership? unknown after thousand of pages.
What really happened with the heralds and the radiants so long ago? Unknown.
Who or what Wit (Hoid) is? unknown.
what’s more frustrating is there are characters in the text who know the answer to these questions, they just haven’t been revealed to the audience yet. After several thousand pages that seems like a little much to ask.
April 28, 2025
This is very long, well written, involved series. The character development was really well done. It is a complicated story with many story lines that unfold over 6000+ pages. You wish it were longer. I've read a number series by Brandon S and this is among his best. My only regret is that the full series is not out. I don't like the waiting. I had read all the wheel of time series until Robert Jordan passes on. It was years before Brandon stepped in yo complete it. He did a great job on that. I had to reread the entire series before I picked the final books by Brandon S.
If you like this type of book buy the first 4 books together. Enjoy!
If you like this type of book buy the first 4 books together. Enjoy!
August 22, 2024
Wow. I didn't think I'd get this sucked in,and it lasted a while, considering my kindle says it's 6.5k pages. Well, it was a ride; Sanderson knows how to write a story that you want to keep reading, and the world has lots of interesting nooks and crannies that you just _need_ to know more about.
At some point in book 4 I felt the characters had gotten a bit samey and didn't really continue evolving, but I'm still impressed. And the plot is mostly great!
At some point in book 4 I felt the characters had gotten a bit samey and didn't really continue evolving, but I'm still impressed. And the plot is mostly great!
February 2, 2025
Book rating:
Book 4, 5, 2, 1, 3
Book 5: chapter 4. Amazing.
Wit is my favorite. That story about the blind men and beauty is well, extraordinarily beautiful.
Political intrigue, beautiful, unique magic system, war, romance, schizophrenia, covert spying, medieval themes, hierarchy and the dismantling of it, royal families, the nobody becoming the most powerful person, gods and goddesses, men becoming gods, secret societies, different realms, mystical beings, religion
Book 4, 5, 2, 1, 3
Book 5: chapter 4. Amazing.
Wit is my favorite. That story about the blind men and beauty is well, extraordinarily beautiful.
Political intrigue, beautiful, unique magic system, war, romance, schizophrenia, covert spying, medieval themes, hierarchy and the dismantling of it, royal families, the nobody becoming the most powerful person, gods and goddesses, men becoming gods, secret societies, different realms, mystical beings, religion
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2025
I read them all between Christmas of 2024 and March of 2025. Then I missed Roshar so much that I started listening to the audiobooks two months later to see what the audio experience would be like. Both are elite literary fantasy experiences.
This is by far my favorite fantasy series. It resonates with me, as an individual with C-PTSD, because it’s magic through trauma.
You’ll just have to read and find out for yourself.
6/5 ⭐️
This is by far my favorite fantasy series. It resonates with me, as an individual with C-PTSD, because it’s magic through trauma.
You’ll just have to read and find out for yourself.
6/5 ⭐️
December 12, 2024
This was my second time reading the first four books of this series. I massively enjoyed them the first time around but knew I wasn’t grasping all the details. So I went through them again before the fifth book came out this month! They aren’t perfect, but for the level of enjoyment I get from them, I can’t give the series less than five stars.
October 22, 2024
Journey before destination
And what a journey it was. Rhythm of War is an exceptional entry to the Cosmere world.
Right from their wonderful magic system to the delicate handling of mental health, loss, and sacrifice this is a gem of a book.
And what a journey it was. Rhythm of War is an exceptional entry to the Cosmere world.
Right from their wonderful magic system to the delicate handling of mental health, loss, and sacrifice this is a gem of a book.
February 19, 2025
sanderson is a fantasy writer unlike any other. his world building is incredibly ìmmersive and well thought out, and his characters are so well thought out and relatable. This series was so much more than I expected, in so that I am now reading everything sanderson has ever written
August 31, 2025
My favorite series out there, whenever a new one comes out, I reread all of the other ones (takes me a few months) but there is so much detail, by the time the new one comes out, I've forgotten who all the characters are. I absolutely adore Sanderson's writing style. Such a great, detailed tale.
June 1, 2024
One of the best fantasy series of all time. Imho
September 7, 2024
Great books but man are these long
December 14, 2024
Must like VERY long epic fantasies
January 25, 2025
This series is what I've been searching for since finishing Throne of Glass. I will probably re-read these books many times.
July 7, 2025
best magic mechanics i’ve ever read with characters that break my heart and make me wanna get up and do something at the same time. so sad it’s over
July 8, 2025
hooray!
Great read. A long one. Nathalie would not be able to finish’s such as saga . We still love her
Great read. A long one. Nathalie would not be able to finish’s such as saga . We still love her
April 7, 2025
To hard to read on my kobo it took me two months to read the box set I recommend reading one book at the time for the way of kings book series.
June 1, 2025
Good read.
2nd time reading this series!!!! Looking forward to book 5. Blah blah blah blah blah blah. There enough words now...
2nd time reading this series!!!! Looking forward to book 5. Blah blah blah blah blah blah. There enough words now...
February 5, 2024
captivating and holds your interest through the back and forth of past and present; Almost finished with Oathbringer and anxiously awaiting the outcome
November 16, 2025
Way of Kings: 4.4/5
Words of Radiance: 5/5
Oathbringer: 4.8/5
Rhythm of War: 4.0/5
Starts a little slow with the first book, but once it picks up, it becomes one of the most immersive fantasy series out there. The worldbuilding is phenomenal detailed, unique, and full of depth. The characters are complex and well-developed, each with their own struggles and growth. The magic system is brilliant and feels both mysterious and logical. The plot keeps expanding in fascinating ways, with politics, philosophy, and epic fight scenes all woven together perfectly. Even though the fourth book slows down a bit and some plotlines aren’t quite as strong, it’s still an amazing and memorable journey through one of the best fantasy worlds ever written.
Words of Radiance: 5/5
Oathbringer: 4.8/5
Rhythm of War: 4.0/5
Starts a little slow with the first book, but once it picks up, it becomes one of the most immersive fantasy series out there. The worldbuilding is phenomenal detailed, unique, and full of depth. The characters are complex and well-developed, each with their own struggles and growth. The magic system is brilliant and feels both mysterious and logical. The plot keeps expanding in fascinating ways, with politics, philosophy, and epic fight scenes all woven together perfectly. Even though the fourth book slows down a bit and some plotlines aren’t quite as strong, it’s still an amazing and memorable journey through one of the best fantasy worlds ever written.
December 28, 2024
Where to even start? This series is a masterpiece. It's quite an undertaking, and the length makes it seem scary, but I am begging everyone to read this series or anything by Brandon Sanderson before they claim to like fantasy books. I have now read every book he has written (yes, it took well over a year) and am now eagerly awaiting the release of Stormlight 5 in December. Brandon's writing is just insane. Every plot point matters, details you read and discarded come back in huge ways, and the plot twists are so insane. The characters feel so deeply real, and Brandon does such an amazing job with their psychology, every line of dialogue and choice feels real, and you feel like you know these characters as real people. I won't spoil anything because reading this series for the first time is a privilege I would never want to tarnish, but I cannot stress enough how important it is that you read Sanderson. There's quite a bit of controversy surrounding the reading order of the Cosmere, but I recommend starting with the Mistborn era one trilogy!
August 9, 2022
I read Way of Kings and it was so good, I couldn’t put it down!
June 11, 2023
Absolutely stunning series.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews