Oaths and Storms: An Unofficial Guide to Brandon Sanderson’s Epic Fantasy The Stormlight Archive

It’s surreal to type these words, but here it is: I wrote a book. It’s called Oaths and Storms: An Unofficial Guide to Brandon Sanderson’s Epic Fantasy The Stormlight Archive. This project has been a journey of passion, exploration, and a celebration of a series that has deeply impacted my life. If you’re a fan of Brandon Sanderson, epic fantasy, or just love diving deep into the intricacies of great stories, this book is for you.

Becoming a Fan of Brandon Sanderson
My journey with Sanderson’s works began years ago. Like many, I discovered him as the chosen author to finish Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time series after Jordan’s untimely passing. Curious about Sanderson’s writing, I picked up Elantris, his debut novel, and I was hooked. Soon, I devoured Mistborn, Warbreaker, and eventually, The Way of Kings, the first book in his magnum opus, The Stormlight Archive.

Sanderson’s ability to create complex, immersive worlds and populate them with deeply relatable characters has always fascinated me. He doesn’t just tell a story—he crafts a universe, a living, breathing tapestry of cultures, histories, and magical systems. And at the heart of his work is a genuine exploration of humanity: our struggles, our triumphs, our oaths, and our storms.

Why Write Oath and Storms?
As I journeyed through the first four books of The Stormlight Archive—The Way of Kings, Words of Radiance, Oathbringer, and Rhythm of War—I found myself drawn to not only the epic narrative but also the intricate details of Sanderson’s world. Roshar, with its sweeping highstorms, sentient spren, and the majestic Knights Radiant, felt alive. The books are more than just stories; they are layered explorations of morality, leadership, mental health, and the cost of war.

I started jotting down notes, highlighting passages, and underlining quotes that resonated with me. Before I knew it, these notes grew into essays, and those essays evolved into what is now Oaths and Storms. This book is my way of contributing to the community of fans who love discussing and analyzing Sanderson’s work. It’s a literary guidebook, a companion to the first four novels, and a deep dive into the themes, characters, and lore of Roshar.

What Oaths and Storms Offers
At its core, Oaths and Storms is a work of literary criticism designed to enhance your experience of The Stormlight Archive. Whether you’re a first-time reader or a seasoned fan, this guide provides insights and analyses to deepen your appreciation of the series.

1. Thematic Exploration
   Sanderson weaves profound themes into his storytelling, from the weight of leadership to the nature of redemption. Oaths and Storms unpacks these themes, exploring how they’re portrayed through characters like Kaladin, Shallan, Dalinar, and others.
2. Character Analysis
   Each member of the sprawling cast is given their moment in the spotlight. Kaladin Stormblessed’s struggle with depression, Shallan Davar’s battle with identity, and Dalinar Kholin’s quest for redemption are examined in detail, showcasing how Sanderson creates characters that feel real and relatable.
3. World-Building
   Roshar isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a character in itself. This book delves into the unique cultures, magic systems, and histories that make this world so compelling. From the highstorms to the shattered plains, from spren bonds to shardblades, Oaths and Storms captures the wonder of Sanderson’s world-building.
4. Major Events and Lore
   The book provides a guide to the significant events of the first four novels without being a strict chapter-by-chapter retelling. It’s perfect for readers who want to refresh their memory before diving into the next installment.

Writing a Love Letter to Fantasy
I’ve always loved fantasy, ever since I was introduced to the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, Charles Dickens, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in my British-style schooling. Later in life, I found escapism and joy in the worlds of science fiction and fantasy. Writing Oaths and Storms felt like a way to give back to a genre that has given me so much.

Sanderson holds a special place in my heart. Not only is he a masterful storyteller, but he’s also an advocate for the craft of writing. His attention to detail, his understanding of pacing, and his innovative approach to magic systems have set a new standard in modern fantasy.

For Fans, By a Fan
I wrote Oaths and Storms as a fan, for fans. This book isn’t affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or his publisher, but it’s born out of admiration and respect for his work. It’s my hope that readers will find it a valuable companion as they navigate the stormy seas of Roshar.

Whether you’re intrigued by the political intrigue of Alethkar, the mysteries of Shadesmar, or the struggles of the Knights Radiant, Oaths and Storms is here to enhance your journey. My goal was to create something that not only informs but also inspires discussions, debates, and perhaps even a re-read of the series.

A Journey Worth Taking
As I reflect on this journey, I’m reminded of the words of Dalinar Kholin: “The most important step a man can take. It’s not the first one, is it? It’s the next one. Always the next step.” Writing this book was my next step. It was a labor of love, and I hope it brings you as much joy to read as it did for me to write.

So, if you’re a fan of The Stormlight Archive, a lover of fantasy, or someone who enjoys diving deep into the mechanics of storytelling, I invite you to pick up Oaths and Storms. Let’s explore Roshar together, one page at a time.

Here’s to the oaths we take and the storms we weather.

JPS Nagi
January 9, 2025

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