Includes spoilers for books 1-4 ofThe Stormlight Archive.
There’s one narrative inThe Stormlight ArchiveI honestly can’t wait for, but I’m not holding my breath for it as it will be quite the wait.The Stormlight Archiveis one of the most outstanding additions to modern fantasy in recent years, and I’ve often written about the qualities that make not onlyBrandon Sanderson’s best booksbut also a series that rivals the likes ofASOIAForTWoTin its contributions to the genre.Sanderson is unrivaled in developing slow-burn, tangible character arcs. Not to mention, he’s a master at connecting us to characters through modern emotional struggles.
Each book ofThe Stormlight Archivehas a central flashback character, and by seeing that character’s past experiences and how they connect to their current choices, we’re able to empathize with them more deeply. Dalinar Kholin was an excellent character, but it wasn’t untilOathbringerthat many began to call him Sanderson’s magnum opus. Kaladin’s flashbacks also contribute a vital emotional core toThe Way of Kingsthat guides the viewer through the density of the first novel’s exposition. In theupcoming book 5,Wind and Truth, we’ll see Szeth as the main flashback character.
Jasnah Kholin Is The Perfectly Flawed Flashback Character For The Stormlight Archive
Jasnah Has Mystical Appeal & Emotional Nuance To Explore
Out of the massive ensemble ofThe Stormlight Archive,no supporting character has appealed to me more than Jasnah. She’s stern and not one for nonsense, even to the point of being fairly abrasive at times. I constantly think about the sequence with Ruthar inRhythm of War; it just doesn’t get more badass than that. But she also has this profound mystical appeal. Even inThe Way of Kings, Jasnah is steps ahead of everyone else, and byRhythm of War, she’s made Wit, who possesses thousands of years of knowledge, fall for her due to her brilliance.
So, for several reasons, I can’t wait for Jasnah to have her moment in the spotlight, as she’s been so fascinating throughout the current four books in brief appearances. We know she’s suffered some severe childhood trauma, and finally revealing what that was could be an exciting game-changer. Beyond just revealing something fascinating, I thinkexploring the emotions of a character with a more rigid exterior shell is a challenge that will ultimately be rewarding for Sandersonto embark on.
We’ve Still Got 5 Volumes To Go
Jasnah will be the tenth and final character
As much as I’d love to see Jasnah as the main flashback character, I’m going to be waiting quite a while. In 2018, Sanderson laid out the list of the primary flashback characters for all ten volumes ofThe Stormlight Archive.Jasnah will be the tenth and final character, despite having been in the series sinceThe Way of Kings. FollowingWind and Truth, there’s meant to be a ten-year time jump in-world before events kick off for the second arc, which will feature different characters more prominently, including Lift and Renarin.
The Stormlight Archive’s Upcoming Time Jump Needs To Learn From Mistborn And Massively Change The World In Brandon Sanderson’s Books
The Stormlight Archive has a time jump coming up after book 5. Luckily, Brandon Sanderson has already demonstrated the best method in Mistborn.
Given thatThe Way of Kingscame out in 2010 andWind and Truthis only arriving at the tail-end of 2024,we could be waiting until 2040 at best before seeing the final installment ofThe StormlightArchive. Sanderson has moreMistbornandElantrisbooks also on the way, as well as other novels set in theCosmere fantasy universe, likeIsles of the Emberdark. So, like I said, I’m excited for Jasnah, but it seems like I’ll have to accept her in small doses for now.
Every Stormlight Archive Flashback Character Brandon Sanderson Has Planned
We’ll See Two Heralds As Flashback Characters Before Jasnah
As mentioned, the main flashback character ofWind and Truthwill be Szeth, one of the more mysterious characters inThe Stormlight Archive, who’s on his way to Shinovar with Kaladin when we last saw him. Picking up after the time jump,Lift will be the main flashback character in book 6, likely with some development beyond the teen character we know fromEdgedancerand the other novels. Renarin Kholin will finally have a chance to shine in book 7.
1.The Way of Kings
2.Words of Radiance
4.Rhythm of War
5.Wind and Truth
10.Unknown
Jasnah
The following two characters are the Heralds Shalash and Talanel, who haven’t had many opportunities to appear in the currentStormlight Archivebooks. I’m intrigued by those as well, as having a Herald as the primary focus seems to imply a rather drastic tonal shift from what we know. I can’t wait to see where Brandon Sanderson takesThe Stormlight Archive, andI’m sure the long delay for Jasnah will be worthwhile, given that her flashbacks are essentially the final piece of the puzzle.
The Stormlight Archive
The Stormlight Archive is an epic fantasy series by Brandon Sanderson, set on the storm-ravaged world of Roshar. The series follows multiple characters, each with their unique storylines, as they navigate political intrigue, ancient prophecies, and powerful magic. Central to the story are the Knights Radiant, legendary warriors with magical abilities who must return to save their world from impending destruction. The series explores themes of honor, leadership, and the burden of power.
