Setting 

In Words of Radiance, Brandon Sanderson constructs an intricate universe in Roshar. The severe climate and mystical phenomena influence societal dynamics and character development. The Shattered Plains feature immense plateaus and chasms, serving as a battleground for characters like Kaladin and Dalinar. Urithiru, a city shrouded in lore, emerges as a site of ancient mysteries. Once home to the Knights Radiant, it offers opportunities for characters to explore and uncover its secrets. Sanderson uses these detailed locations to drive the plot, integrating cultural and environmental elements into the storyline.

Within the novel’s setting, Sanderson introduces a complex magic system. Surgebinding, a key element, allows individuals to control two of Roshar's 10 fundamental forces, called Surges, through bonds with sentient entities known as spren. Notable Surges include Adhesion, Gravitation, Illumination, and Transformation. Characters like Kaladin and Shallan use their Surge pairings for various abilities. Stormlight, a luminescent energy, powers Surgebinding. Kaladin, for example, uses Stormlight to enhance physical abilities and manipulate gravity. This enables him to move swiftly in battle and influence combat outcomes. The system supports intense action and emphasizes character growth and responsibility.

Themes 

Power and responsibility

Words of Radiance explores the weight of power and accompanying responsibilities through Kaladin's experiences. As a Knight Radiant, he grapples with the moral implications of his abilities, which enable him to protect others. This shows that power can empower while also being burdensome. Dalinar Kholin’s efforts to unify the highprinces indicate that power can lead to either division or unity, depending on the wielder's intentions.

Morality as a trajectory

Words of Radiance portrays morality as a dynamic journey. Characters such as Kaladin and Elhokar show that personal growth and ethical choices shape one's moral compass over time. Kaladin decides not to assassinate Elhokar after recognizing the king’s effort to change. This demonstrates the evolution of morality as past actions and realizations guide future decisions.

Mental health and growth

Words of Radiance addresses mental health through its characters' personal struggles. Shallan's dissociation from traumatic experiences addresses themes of coping and self-discovery. Kaladin's battle with depression highlights resilience in adversity. These narratives depict the characters' attempts to navigate their turmoil and reconstruct their identities. This shows their path toward healing and purpose despite internal scars.

Quick facts

• Words of Radiance won the David Gemmell Legend Award for Best Novel in 2015.

• Words of Radiance debuted at #1 on The New York Times bestseller list.

• Spanning 1,088 pages, Words of Radiance was the largest book Tor Books had printed at the time of its release in 2014. 

• Brandon Sanderson’s initial title for the book was “The Book of Endless Pages.” 

• Shallan Davar is highlighted as the central character, with significant development of her backstory.

• Key themes explored include identity, leadership, mental health, resilience, and the value of cooperation.

• Kaladin evolves significantly, transitioning from a doubtful soldier to a powerful Knight Radiant.

• The Parshendi characters receive deeper portrayal, becoming tragic figures with their own perspective on the conflict.

• Sanderson is praised for masterful world-building, detailed character arcs, and compelling action sequences.

• The climax features a significant battle between characters Szeth and Kaladin, noted as a memorable moment.

• The audiobook version is narrated by Michael Kramer and Kate Reading, consistent with the previous book.

About the author

Brandon Sanderson (1975-) is an American author of high fantasy and science fiction novels. He is widely acclaimed for his complex world-building, evident in the Cosmere universe, the setting for his two major fantasy series, Mistborn and The Stormlight Archive. He has also written multiple series of young adult novels, including The Reckoners, Skyward, and Alcatraz. Sanderson's work often features intricate magic systems and rich cultural details. He is also known for completing author Robert Jordan’s high fantasy series, The Wheel of Time.