A review by tourmaline_and_tomes
The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

adventurous emotional mysterious reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

The Stormlight Archive is a modern masterpiece. This first novel is over 1200 pages long, but each and every word counts. Sanderson is a master of careful plotting, intricately detailed world-building, and fully realized characters. We meet Kaladin, a slave who is and becomes so much more. Dalinar, a privileged high prince who appears to be losing his mind in the midst of an interminable war. Shallan, a daughter of an unimportant noble house on a mission of thievery who may also be losing her mind. And Szeth, an assassin who weeps as he harnesses magical power to wipe out his master's enemies. We also meet many other characters along the way, and Sanderson seamlessly switches perspectives and narratives with such an ease that we know these primary four will be brought together at some point. 
 If you're a fan of intricately written high fantasy, and you haven't picked up Brandon Sanderson yet, you are missing out. His books take a lot of time and commitment, but they are completely worth it. The Stormlight Archive is a planned long-term series and only 4 books have been released thus far. If you prefer completed series, check out "Mistborn." But seriously, don't sleep on this series. It is epic fantasy and totally delivers. 
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