The fifth book in Brandon Sanderson's Stormlight Archive series takes great, thrilling leaps forward in the author's beloved story of swords, sorcery, and oh-so-much more. Dalinar, a complicated king, has challenged the god of hatred to a contest of champions, and the fate of the world hangs in the balance. Meanwhile, a brutal war rages across the land and numerous characters seek answers they hope might save them all.
Sanderson's writing talents are turned up to 11 for this conclusion to the first arc of the series. Multifaceted characters crash together, learning about themselves and one another in the process. The hero Kaladin's narrative is particularly intriguing as he struggles with big questions of identity and purpose. All of this takes place in a fantasy world of boggling scope, which becomes even more fascinating and intricate over the course of the novel.
One of Sanderson's strengths is the way his writing reevaluates its own dynamics, revealing new layers to established relationships. One small but thoughtful example in Wind and Truth is the portrayal of bonded spren. The helpful, fairy-like beings have been a staple of the series, bonding with several key characters and providing magical abilities and loyal support. In Wind and Truth, Sanderson (Steelheart) revisits the nature of those bonds in a manner that will leave readers deep in thought.
In addition to such developments, Sanderson fans are in for big revelations, action-packed scenes, and a thrilling conclusion to the five-book arc. --Carol Caley, writer