re: Rhythm of War (Stormlight 4) UK cover art revealed

Do you just mean that specific romance is a step back or like the overall story?

Alloy is probably my favorite of Sandersons but I think Stormlight is better than the others you mentioned.


SPOILERS

The romance is definitely cringey and over the top but I think that was partially the point for two dramatic teenagers in their first love acting ridiculous. There are points in the story where surrounding characters roll their eyes at them, etc. I don't really care for the romance and it isn't engaging but I feel like it is written more as "these two first love teenagers absurdity" moreso than something you are really supposed to get behind - that was just my take on it.


As far as calling them Mary / Gary Sue level characters, feel like you are going over the top. Both certainly have flaws and weaknesses. Shallan has clear mental issues, split personality, depressive type stuff. Dealing with liking Kaladin while having to reconcile that with him killing her brother.

Adolin is one you have more of a point as he is your typical epic prince style trope and he certainly isn't a very deep character as of yet. But i think the "point" of his character is someone prideful and supremely confident in his position, skills, etc. coming to grips with matters he can't understand - such as his fathers delusions, Shallans split personas, trying to protect his brother, etc.