I was very surprised that he made Hoid somewhat vulnerable.
I was also surprised at how well he handled Navani and Raboniel - heretofore minor characters, and they stole the show, in a way.
The mental illness aspect with Shallan and Kaladin were unforeseen and very well done. Also, I think one reason Moash is the way he is, is because of mental illness. All he wants is peace, and when you have awful gnawing anxiety, you’ll do anything to get it. That’s what seems to drive Moash to an extent.
Loved also that he kept the flashbacks brief and to a minimum. I like that arc fine, but it’s not why I keep reading.
Overall, Taravangien. Wow. Sanderson has gotten me multiple times with that guy.