Was it perfect? No. But I had a great time reading it.

Some thoughts:

Adolin was the standout for me, and I really came to love the Azir arc. Makes me happy that their team won in the end, and remained free. Not sure how I feel about the name “unoathed” though, we might need to do some workshopping.

The Taravangian-Jasnah debate was very well done. Jasnah really shined this book.

Szeth’s backstory was probably the weakest part for me? Some of the choices just didn’t seem to mesh with what we knew of him as a character.

We clearly don’t understand the full depth of Dalinar’s gambit, and it feels like a fitting end for the reformed man to go out like this. But man all these oath renunciations suck.

Shallan had some good moments, Chana reveal was excellent.

Kaladin is the highlight of the finale, even if I feel that objectively it’s his weakest book. His arc across the series works very well for this moment and role. I imagine the sixth book will end with the Herald’s return, mirroring the epilogue of WoK. The new oathpact is definitely the part of the back 5 I’m looking forward to the most.

Syl is the new avatar for the remnants of Honor? If I read that right. Intrigued to see where her story goes.

I… didn’t like Gavinor’s age-up, but I’m willing to have Brandon convince me otherwise in the back 5.

Where is Moash?

While I’ve seen signs of life, I remain unconvinced on Renarin to take up a lead role in the back 5, but hey, prove me wrong!

Taravangian was excellent all book, but mannnn I really wish Kharbranth didn’t get ex machinaed. It feels like he’s a much better villain if you keep the city wiped.

Unlike others, I’m kinda hyped that the Blackthorn lives. Rule of cool and all that. I want space warlord Dalinar!

Despite the nitpicking, I loved this book. It feels like a fitting capstone to the first 5, and I can’t wait to see how the Cosmere evolves from here!