Let’s dive into the magical world crafted by American author Brandon Sanderson, in this Guide to the Mistborn books and the spellbinding realm of the Mistborn series.
Brandon Sanderson’s books have a unique magic system that revolves around the consumption of different metals, each granting magical powers. The Cosmere Universe, a shared universe that encompasses most of Sanderson’s work, is the setting for this epic fantasy trilogy.
The Enthralling Mistborn Era
The Mistborn era begins with the story of a heart-broken half-skaa. A natural leader, and a brilliant thief, in a heist story like no other. With their unique abilities, these characters shape the world of Scadrial.
The events of the Mistborn trilogy take us through different time periods. Unveiling secrets of the past and hinting at potential futures.
Unveiling the Main Character
One of the series’ most powerful Mistborn is Elend Venture. His journey from a somewhat naive nobleman to a confident ruler is the heart of the first trilogy.
Within the gripping pages of Sanderson’s work, Elend Venture’s transformation is a standout aspect of the Mistborn series. Elend begins his journey as a somewhat naive nobleman. Someone who largely disregards the political machinations of his time, preferring books over balls.
However, as the series progresses, he evolves into a confident ruler who begins to comprehend and even master the art of leadership.
Additional Works in the Series
There’s more to Sanderson’s work than the main Mistborn books. For instance, Arcanum Unbounded offers short stories that expand upon events in the main series. Secret projects such as the standalone novel “The Emperor’s Soul,” and “White Sand” (a graphic novel) also help enrich the Cosmere reading order.
Try New Worlds and Adventures
Sanderson’s universe extends beyond Mistborn with other popular series like the Stormlight Archive books. Titles such as “Way of Kings,” “Words of Radiance,” and “Rhythm of War” showcase his knack for crafting unique, immersive worlds.
The Mistborn Series
The Mistborn series is set in a world where some people are born with the ability to use Allomancy, a magical power gained by ingesting and “burning” metals. The story follows various characters and their struggles against oppressive rulers, exploring themes of rebellion, political intrigue, and the consequences of power.
The original trilogy, starting with “Mistborn: The Final Empire,” introduces readers to Vin, a street urchin with latent Allomantic powers, as she becomes entangled in a rebellion against the tyrannical Lord Ruler.
Subsequent books continue to expand the world and delve into the consequences of past events, introducing new characters and challenges along the way.
The second era, beginning with “Mistborn: The Alloy of Law,” takes place several centuries after the events of the original trilogy and follows a new cast of characters in a more technologically advanced society. This era combines elements of fantasy and western genres, blending Allomancy with gunslinging and detective work.
“Secret History” is a companion novella that provides additional insights and reveals hidden aspects of the Mistborn universe, while “The Lost Metal” (yet to be released) will conclude the second era and wrap up the overarching story.
Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn series offers intricate world-building, well-developed characters, and complex magic systems that have captivated readers and established Sanderson as a master of epic fantasy.
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The Mistborn Books in Reading Order
Mistborn: The Final Empire
by Brandon Sanderson
In a world ruled by an immortal tyrant known as the Lord Ruler, a young street thief named Vin discovers her latent Allomantic powers—abilities that allow her to control metals. She becomes entangled in a rebellion led by a group of skilled Mistborn, those who can use all of the Allomantic powers. Together, they plan to overthrow the Lord Ruler and bring hope to a world shrouded in darkness.
Mistborn: The Well of Ascension
by Brandon Sanderson
After the events of the first book, Vin and her fellow rebels find themselves facing new challenges as they attempt to establish a new government in the wake of the Lord Ruler’s fall. As political intrigue and external threats mount, Vin’s powers and leadership abilities are put to the test, and she must confront difficult choices that could shape the destiny of the entire world.
Mistborn: The Hero of Ages
by Brandon Sanderson
The final installment in the original trilogy sees Vin and her allies discovering dark secrets about the nature of their world and the true purpose of their powers. As they confront the looming threat of an ancient force known as Ruin, the fate of their world hangs in the balance. Epic battles, sacrifice, and surprising revelations await as they race against time to save what remains of their civilization.
Mistborn: The Alloy of Law
by Brandon Sanderson
Set several centuries after the events of the original trilogy, this book takes place in a more technologically advanced era. As society evolves, new challenges arise, and a lawman named Waxillium Ladrian must investigate a series of crimes that threaten to plunge the city into chaos. With the help of his unconventional team, including a brilliant young woman named Marasi, Wax must navigate a world of political intrigue, Allomantic abilities, and a mysterious figure known as the Vanishers.
Mistborn: Shadows of Self
by Brandon Sanderson
Waxillium Ladrian returns as he becomes entangled in a new web of intrigue and danger. Facing a series of gruesome murders and an enigmatic new threat, Wax and his team race against time to uncover the truth. Alongside the charming thief-turned-lawkeeper, Wayne, and Marasi, Wax faces personal challenges while trying to maintain peace in a city on the brink of turmoil.
Mistborn: The Bands of Mourning
by Brandon Sanderson
Wax, Wayne, and Marasi embark on a new adventure as they search for the fabled Bands of Mourning—a mythical artifact with immense power. Their quest takes them across the land, where they encounter ancient technology, hidden secrets, and face off against deadly adversaries. With the fate of the world at stake, the trio must harness their skills and determination to protect what they hold dear.
Mistborn: Secret History
by Brandon Sanderson
This novella explores hidden aspects of the Mistborn universe. Delving into unseen events and providing deeper insights into the cosmology and lore of the series. It reveals hidden perspectives and untold tales that enrich the reader’s understanding of the larger narrative.
Mistborn: The Lost Metal
by Brandon Sanderson
Available for Pre-Order now! The final book of the second era is yet to be released. Its description and plot details are yet to be unveiled. But it promises to be the culmination of the second era storyline, answering lingering questions and concluding the overarching narrative of the Mistborn series.
Each book in the Mistborn series offers a thrilling blend of intricate world-building, compelling characters, and Brandon Sanderson’s signature magic systems. As the story progresses, readers are taken on a journey of discovery, danger, and epic battles that explore themes of power, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of hope.
So there you have it, a brief Guide to the Mistborn Books a mystical and magical world. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer eager to start your Cosmere adventure.
These fantasy novels promise a roller-coaster of a ride, with countless twists, turns, and epic moments. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to discover the magic of Brandon Sanderson.
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The Continual Success of Sanderson
New York Times bestselling author, Brandon Sanderson continues to wow readers with his latest book in the series. With a background in English and creative writing from Brigham Young University, and several awards to his name, including the Whitney Award and Best Book Award, Sanderson’s creations continue to leave an indelible mark on the fantasy genre.
- The Stormlight Archive: An epic high-fantasy series set in the Cosmere universe, this collection features massive world-building, intricate magic systems, and multi-dimensional characters. If you’re into deeply layered plots and epic storylines, this is a must-read.
- Elantris: Sanderson’s debut standalone novel, Elantris is an engrossing tale about a city once bathed in magic, now cursed and fallen into ruins. It showcases Sanderson’s knack for unique magic systems and intriguing plotlines.
- Warbreaker: Another standalone novel in the Cosmere universe, Warbreaker centers around two princesses, a God King, and a mysterious immortal, all tied together with an intriguing magic system that involves the use of color and breath.
- The Reckoners Trilogy: This series, set on Earth in an alternate future, is a thrilling twist on the superhero genre. When ordinary humans gain superpowers but become corrupted, a group of normal humans, known as the Reckoners, steps up to fight back.
- Skyward Series: A science fiction quartet, the Skyward series tells the story of a girl who dreams of becoming a pilot in a world under constant alien threat. It’s a fantastic blend of intense aerial combat, deep character development, and explorations of bravery and identity.
- Alcatraz Series: A fun, middle-grade series that follows a boy named Alcatraz who inherits a pair of glasses on his 13th birthday. These glasses are tied to a hidden kingdom, leading to a whirlwind of adventures filled with humor, wit, and lots of breaking things.
More Books to Try
If you enjoyed the Mistborn series by Brandon Sanderson and are looking for similar books that offer captivating worlds, complex magic systems, and epic storytelling, here are some recommendations:
The Stormlight Archive
by Brandon Sanderson
This epic fantasy series takes place in the richly imagined world of Roshar. It follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate political intrigue, cosmic mysteries, and world-changing events. The series features Sanderson’s trademark world-building, intricate magic systems, and compelling character arcs
The Kingkiller Chronicle
by Patrick Rothfuss
This series follows the story of Kvothe, a talented musician and magician, as he recounts his life’s adventures to a chronicler. It combines lyrical prose, complex world-building, and a captivating narrative that delves into themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of knowledge.
The Lightbringer
by Brent Weeks
In this series, a world is filled with magic fueled by the light spectrum. The story follows a young drafter named Gavin Guile as he battles political intrigue, supernatural forces, and personal demons. The series is known for its intricate magic system, fast-paced action, and morally complex characters.
The Powder Mage
by Brian McClellan
Set in a world of flintlock fantasy, this series combines elements of magic and technology. It follows Field Marshal Tamas, a war hero turned revolutionary, as he fights against corrupt rulers and manipulative gods. The series offers a unique blend of political intrigue, military action, and inventive magic systems.
The Wheel of Time
by Robert Jordan
This classic epic fantasy series spans across 14 books and features a vast, detailed world, intricate plotting, and a large cast of characters. It follows the journey of several young individuals who find themselves caught up in a prophecy that could determine the fate of the world.
The First Law
by Joe Abercrombie
This gritty and dark fantasy series explores a world of war, politics, and morally ambiguous characters. It follows an array of compelling characters, including a disgraced warrior, a cunning mage, and a ruthless inquisitor. The series is known for its realistic portrayal of violence, complex character relationships, and unpredictable plot twists.
The Broken Empire
by Mark Lawrence
This series follows the journey of Jorg Ancrath, a ruthless prince seeking power and vengeance in a post-apocalyptic world. It delves into themes of redemption, survival, and the cost of ambition. The series offers a darker and more introspective take on epic fantasy.
These recommendations provide a range of fantasy series with intricate world-building, compelling characters, and captivating narratives. Each series offers its own unique blend of magic, adventure, and complex storytelling, ensuring that you will find yourself immersed in richly imagined worlds and epic tales of triumph and struggle.