by Brandon Sanderson

_{publisher’s synopsis}

A brilliant thief and natural leader, Kelsier recruits the underworld’s smartest and most trustworthy allomancers, who each share one of his many powers and relish a high-stakes challenge. Only then does he reveal his ultimate dream: not just the greatest heist in history, but the downfall of the divine despot.

But even with the best criminal crew ever assembled, Kel’s plan looks like the ultimate long shot, until luck brings a ragged girl named Vin into his life. Like him, she’s a half-Skaa orphan, but she’s lived a much harsher life. Vin has learned to expect betrayal from everyone she meets. She will have to learn to trust, if Kel is to help her master powers that she’s never dreamed of.

---

After hearing about Sanderson’s adult novels for years, I finally read Mistborn. And I was pleased to find that it lived up to the praise.

Sanderson is often lauded for his magic systems, and it’s easy to see why. I can’t think of any magic systems quite like the one in Mistborn.

While leaning into familiar tropes, Mistborn doesn’t feel cliche. I loved the dynamics between Keslier’s crew. The heist elements were also fun.

Sanderson’s writing style isn’t overly complex, and I actually liked that. Sometimes I enjoy more complex prose, and other times I want something that’s a little easier to read. I think Sanderson’s writing being a little simpler in style keeps it more accessible to readers who might otherwise be intimidated by a thicker novel.

I also liked how Mistborn works as a standalone novel while being part of a series. But I hope to read the other novels!

Cautions: around twenty instances of swearing; ten British swear words; light romance; one kiss; non-descriptive mentions of rape; semi-graphic heavy violence; worldview (see below)

Worldview: The Lord Ruler of the story world is viewed as having some level of deity and is believed to be a god. Kelsier himself achieves a prophet-like status in the rebellion. Various other story world religions are also discussed.