How to use this page
- Pick the checkpoint that matches where you are in Stormlight.
- Follow the suggested next steps. They are designed to maximize payoff while keeping momentum.
- Optional items are clearly labeled. You can skip them on a first pass.
Choose your checkpoint
If you are on The Way of Kings
- Keep reading Stormlight.
- If you want a short detour later, Warbreaker is the best side read.
If you finished Words of Radiance
- This is the best time to read Warbreaker.
- Then continue with Edgedancer (optional) and Oathbringer.
If you finished Oathbringer
- Read Dawnshard (optional but recommended).
- Then continue with Rhythm of War.
If you finished Rhythm of War
- Read Mistborn Era 1 next if you have not.
- Then continue to Mistborn Era 2.
- After that, explore standalones and short fiction.
Recommended Stormlight first reading path
Best for: readers who want the best Cosmere experience with minimal backtracking.
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The Way of Kings
Continue if you are currently here.
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Words of Radiance
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Warbreaker
Standalone. Strongly recommended before you go deeper into Stormlight.
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Edgedancer (novella)
Optional but recommended. Short and adds context.
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Oathbringer
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Dawnshard (novella)
Optional but recommended. Best read before Rhythm of War.
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Rhythm of War
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Mistborn Era 1
If you already read Era 1, skip to Era 2.
- The Final Empire
- The Well of Ascension
- The Hero of Ages
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Mistborn Era 2
- The Alloy of Law
- Shadows of Self
- The Bands of Mourning
- The Lost Metal
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Elantris and short fiction
Great after you have read a few major series.
Novella guidance
These are optional on a first pass. If you like extra context, they are worth reading in sequence.
- Edgedancer fits best after Words of Radiance.
- Dawnshard fits best after Oathbringer and before Rhythm of War.
If you want the simplest approach
- Read Stormlight main books only.
- Read Warbreaker at the recommended time.
- Come back for novellas later if you want more.
What to read after Stormlight
Best for: readers who finished the published Stormlight books and want the next most rewarding Cosmere steps.
Best next series
- Mistborn Era 1, if you have not read it
- Mistborn Era 2, after Era 1
Best standalones
- Warbreaker, if you skipped it
- Elantris
- The Emperor’s Soul
Best short fiction entry points
- Sixth of the Dusk
- Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell
- Arcanum Unbounded, read story by story
If you want deep connections
- Follow the completionist path on the main reading order page
- Then circle back for a reread later
FAQ
Do I have to read Mistborn before Stormlight?
No. Stormlight works on its own. Mistborn is recommended because it expands your Cosmere context and is a great next step after Stormlight.
Will I be confused if I skip Warbreaker?
No. You can still enjoy Stormlight fully. Warbreaker is recommended because it adds satisfying context later.
Is this page spoiler-free?
Yes. It avoids plot details and major reveals.