The Way of Kings gets too bogged down in depression, almost sadistically. Shallan is the most annoying character in the whole series in that book (though she is close in Rhythm of War), and the depiction of the Alethi culture in how Dalinar is treated is majorly frustrating. It’s great, but the others are better written and constructed.

Oathbringer is chaotic and difficult for the characters, but it slaps hard the second time through.

Words of Radiance is awesome, though Kaladin is so annoying for most of it.

Rhythm of War is the best one. Major paradigm shifts, incredibly ambitious mythology expansion, wonderfully rich character detail on both sides of the conflict.