Marissa Linderman’s Reviews > The Way of Kings > Status Update

Respectfully, WHERE WAS THIS ENERGY FOR THE LAST 900+ PAGES?!

Sanderson’s metaphors and symbolism are SO heavy-handed, and he has a tendency to over-explain them. I think the book could be shorter if those explanations were cut. He doesn’t seem to trust the reader, and he often prioritizes info-dumping over telling the story beautifully. His explanations of metaphors feel like a comedian stopping mid-joke to explain the punchline to a silent audience and a cricket.

This is my first Brandon Sanderson book. The characters compelling so far, especially Kaladin. I like that the character depth is built slowly. But Sanderson’s prose is extremely architectural, scientific, straightforward, and dry. Very “left-brained.” The worldbuilding is amazing, but it sometimes feels like I’m reading an encyclopedia, which takes me out of the slow-burning plot and character development.

Not to be dramatic, but I would die for Kaladin.

This is my break from my feral woman protagonist book bender. This is also my first Brandon Sanderson book. The characters are intriguing and captivating so far. Sanderson really lets mystery and tension build, and is clearly holding back some big reveals. His world building is meticulously detailed and extremely thoughtful. His prose isn’t “pretty” but it’s architectural and vivid. I’m excited to read on.