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Rhythm of War

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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Brandon Sanderson

Rhythm of War

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

1230

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Roshar • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Rhythm of War, set on the planet Roshar in the Cosmere universe, Dalinar, Kaladin, Shallan, and Navani battle the god Odium for Roshar's fate. They contend with inner struggles, such as Kaladin’s PTSD and Shallan’s dissociative identity disorder, while navigating complex politics, bonding with magical spren, and uncovering new ways to use Stormlight.

Suspenseful

Adventurous

Emotional

Fantastical

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.7

210,317 ratings

94%

Loved it

5%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Rhythm of War by Brandon Sanderson captivates readers with its complex characters, intricate world-building, and engaging plot. However, some critics find the pacing uneven and the book's length daunting. Fans of the series will appreciate the character development and plot advancements, while newcomers might be overwhelmed by the dense lore and extensive backstory. Overall, it's a strong installment that rewards dedicated readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Rhythm of War?

A reader who would enjoy Rhythm of War by Brandon Sanderson typically loves epic fantasy with complex world-building, intricate magic systems, and nuanced characters. Comparable to fans of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings and Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time, they appreciate immersive narratives and expansive, multi-layered plots.

4.7

210,317 ratings

94%

Loved it

5%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

Character List

Kaladin Stormblessed

A once-enslaved soldier who became a leader among the Windrunners, struggling with the weight of his past and the symptoms of PTSD and depression while working to support others coping with psychological trauma.

The King of Urithiru and leader of the Knights Radiant, who focuses on understanding and harnessing his expanding magical abilities while seeking to unify various monarchs against external threats.

A scholar-scientist and Queen Mother, dedicated to advancing fabrial technology and caught in a complex dynamic with invaders during the occupation of Urithiru.

Dalinar's son, heir to the Alethi throne, who grapples with his past actions and desires for a more genuine relationship with Shallan.

A skilled young Radiant with a complex past, working to reconcile her abilities and personal history while deepening her marriage to Adolin.

A scholar and recently crowned Queen of Alethkar, who is determined to instigate social reform and trusted for her forward-thinking mindset.

An honorspren bonded with Kaladin, assisting him with her lighthearted nature while gaining insights into human emotions and psychology.

A logicspren bonded with Shallan, primarily committed to unearthing truths and secrets while dealing with challenges to their bond.

An immensely powerful spren bonded to Dalinar, assisting him in manipulating highstorms and opening portals while maintaining a cautious stance towards human intentions.

King of Kharbranth and Jah Keved, who regularly alternates between extreme intelligence and compassion due to a unique boon and curse, leading to his significant role in unfolding events.

A singer caught between loyalty to the Fused and her desire to amend past mistakes, who finds herself inadvertently allied with the Radiants and working toward a more peaceful future.

An ancient Fused leader who occupies Urithiru, fostering an unexpected collaboration with Navani while maintaining her allegiance to her own people.

Book Details
Pages

1230

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Roshar • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15+ years

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