Cover of The Way of Kings
Cover of The Way of Kings, Part 1
Cover of Words of Radiance
Cover of Edgedancer
Cover of Oathbringer
Cover of Dawnshard
Series

The Stormlight Archive

8 books

The Stormlight Archive series by Brandon Sanderson has 5 books. Start with The Way of Kings (2010), then read the rest in the order below.

The Stormlight Archive reading order

1
Cover of The Way of Kings

The Way of Kings

Brandon Sanderson

In a world ravaged by colossal storms and steeped in ancient mysteries, the fate of Roshar hangs precariously in the balance. This epic fantasy saga introduces a cast of compelling characters, from a disgraced soldier fighting for survival and honor to a young noblewoman navigating treacherous political waters, and a mysterious assassin bound by an unbreakable oath. As long-lost magical abilities begin to resurface and forgotten truths are unearthed, these disparate lives converge, hinting at a coming conflict that could reshape their world forever. Brandon Sanderson masterfully weaves intricate world-building with profound character development, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey into the heart of a world on the brink of war.

FantasyEpic FantasyHigh Fantasy
1
Cover of The Way of Kings, Part 1

The Way of Kings, Part 1

Brandon Sanderson

In a world ravaged by colossal storms and defined by its rocky, unforgiving landscape, the legacy of the fallen Knights Radiant and their legendary Shardblades and Shardplate looms large. These mystical artifacts, capable of turning ordinary men into near-invincible warriors, are now the ultimate prize in a brutal, ongoing war. As kingdoms clash and fortunes are traded for these powerful relics, the lives of a common soldier, a noble lord, and a determined scholar become inextricably intertwined. Brandon Sanderson, celebrated for his masterful completion of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time, embarks on an epic new saga, weaving intricate magic systems, complex characters, and a world brimming with ancient mysteries and impending conflict.

FantasyEpic FantasyHigh Fantasy
2
Cover of Words of Radiance

Words of Radiance

Brandon Sanderson

In the world of Roshar, where colossal storms reshape the land and ancient magic stirs, the fate of nations hangs precariously in the balance. As the Parshendi prepare for an unprecedented assault, a legendary assassin is unleashed, threatening to plunge the realm into chaos. Meanwhile, a young woman grapples with newfound powers and a mysterious past, while a highprince confronts his own demons and the weight of leadership in a world teetering on the brink of war. This epic saga delves into themes of honor, sacrifice, and the struggle for truth against overwhelming darkness, all rendered in Sanderson's signature intricate world-building and compelling character arcs.

FantasyEpic FantasyHigh Fantasy
2.5
Cover of Edgedancer

Edgedancer

Brandon Sanderson

In this captivating novella, set between the epic events of *Words of Radiance* and *Oathbringer*, readers rejoin Lift, a young woman gifted with the ability to manipulate Stormlight and defy gravity. Three years after making a wish to a god to stop her aging, Lift grapples with the true meaning of her powers and her place in the world. As she navigates her unique abilities and the complexities of her own desires, Lift must confront a dangerous conspiracy threatening the very fabric of Roshar. Brandon Sanderson masterfully weaves a tale of self-discovery, responsibility, and the extraordinary potential hidden within the most unexpected individuals.

FantasyEpic FantasyHigh Fantasy
3
Cover of Oathbringer

Oathbringer

Brandon Sanderson

In the face of an impending desolation, Highprince Dalinar Kholin grapples with the monumental task of uniting a fractured continent under a single banner. As ancient enemies stir and the very fabric of society threatens to unravel, Dalinar must confront his own past and the secrets that bind him to the legendary Knights Radiant. Meanwhile, Shallan Davar navigates the treacherous currents of political intrigue and personal discovery, her wit and skill tested as she uncovers truths that could either save or doom them all. This epic installment delves into themes of faith, duty, and the enduring power of hope against overwhelming darkness, continuing Sanderson's masterful world-building and intricate plotting.

FantasyEpic FantasyHigh Fantasy
3.5
Cover of Dawnshard

Dawnshard

Brandon Sanderson

Embark on a journey to the storm-shrouded island of Akinah in this captivating novella set within Brandon Sanderson's epic Stormlight Archive. Follow Rysn, a determined captain, as she navigates treacherous seas and personal challenges on a quest to save her unique pet, a Larkin. This tale offers a deeper look into the life and struggles of a beloved minor character, exploring themes of resilience, discovery, and the vast mysteries of the Cosmere. "Dawnshard" provides a compelling expansion of the Stormlight world, perfect for readers eager to delve further into its intricate lore and character-driven narratives.

FantasyEpic FantasyAdventure Fiction
4
Cover of Rhythm of War

Rhythm of War

Brandon Sanderson

In the midst of a brutal, protracted war, humanity's resistance faces a new turning point as technological advancements begin to shift the tide. As Dalinar Kholin and the Knights Radiant grapple with the escalating conflict, unexpected discoveries by Navani Kholin's scholars offer a glimmer of hope. Yet, the enemy is preparing a daring and perilous operation, threatening to plunge the world into further chaos. This installment delves into the personal struggles and cosmic implications of the war, leaving readers eager for the next chapter.

FantasyEpic FantasyHigh Fantasy
5
Cover of Wind and Truth

Wind and Truth

Brandon Sanderson

The epic conclusion to the first half of Brandon Sanderson's monumental Stormlight Archive saga arrives with Wind and Truth. As the Desolations intensify and the world of Roshar teeters on the brink of destruction, ancient powers awaken and long-held secrets are revealed. Follow Kaladin, Shallan, Dalinar, and other beloved characters as they confront their deepest fears and make impossible choices that will shape the fate of humanity and the very fabric of their reality. Sanderson masterfully weaves intricate worldbuilding, profound character arcs, and breathtaking action into a narrative that explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope against overwhelming darkness.

FantasyEpic FantasyHigh Fantasy