Lordship

Major Hero of Ages spoilers in that thread so I'll just have to wait till I'm done reading the book

I have an infinite amount of questions regarding the universe. I have little to no understanding of how this Hoid character appears in multiple books. I don't understand the history of the universe (though I know vaguely from conversations with my friends about the splitting of the shards, though I do not not what caused this) If you can give me a brief rundown of the history of the universe (without spoilers, of course ;)) I'd be eternally grateful. Or point me to where I can read up on it!

I have decided to make an account here because Way of Kings is the best book I've ever read. My friend pushed me to read it and I have to admit, I was a bit reluctant at first. However after reading the first couple of Kaladin chapters/his struggles with bridge 4, I blew the the rest of the book very quickly. Since then I've read Words of Radiance, Elantris, and The Final Empire/Well of Ascension. I am currently reading The Hero of Ages, and am beyond hyped for the release of Oathbringer. Stormlight is king, but Mistborn is proving to be quite extraordinary as well