Shadows of Self (#2)
Previous: The Alloy of Law (#1) | Next: The Bands of Mourning (#3)
Waxillium Ladrian was a lawman in Scadrial’s ungoverned frontier region, known as the Roughs, where he worked with his eccentric but effective buddy, Wayne. They are “twinborn,” meaning they are able to use both Allomantic and Feruchemical magic. In their world, technology and magic mix, democracy contends with corruption, and religion becomes a growing cultural force, with four faiths competing for converts.
This bustling, optimistic, but still shaky society now faces its first instance of terrorism, crimes intended to stir up strife. Wax and Wayne, assisted by the brilliant Marasi, must unravel the conspiracy before it stops Scadrial’s progress in its tracks.
Reviews
“A fast-paced fantasy adventure set in a fascinating world and populated with lovable, memorable characters.”
“[An] excellent fifth Mistborn industrial revolution fantasy […] Sanderson’s fantasy world partakes equally of steampunk, early industry, and the Wild West, and he cleverly incorporates the metal-shaping magic of feruchemists and allomancers. Fantasy fans will savor this exciting escapade.”
“Fast, smart dialog and an abundance of exciting action keep the pages turning […] The magic system that Sanderson has developed shows why this is one of his great strengths in the fantasy field. Picking out a favorite character might be hard—honorable but haunted Wax has merits, as does the lovely Marasi, struggling to succeed in the Elendel Constabulary—but Wayne remains one of the most charmingly irrepressible thieves in fantasy.”
“Sanderson’s writing is still prime […] [A] good read in this second piece.”RT Book Reviews
“SHADOWS OF SELF is a solid, standalone story in Sanderson’s Mistborn universe. Sanderson does an incredible job of worldbuilding, and his novels never fail to impress. This latest Mistborn novel is full of suspense, mystery, magic, and mysticism. The story is riveting and the characters are vivid and engaging [...] Don’t miss this epic fantasy series.”
“Brandon Sanderson’s SHADOWS OF SELF delivers more excitement, adventure, and magic in a newly industrialized world that is as richly realized as any of Sanderson’s creations.”
“Sanderson’s world building shines through [...] with plot twists and schemes within schemes that culminate with a solid and satisfying end.”
“The mix of magic and technology is interesting and well worth the time.”SFRevu
“Another fantastic romp of a read from Brandon Sanderson, filled with Allomancy in action, puzzles to solve, amusing banter, relationship questions – and big shockers at the end that leave readers eagerly anticipating what might come next. Can’t wait!”
“The Mistborn series is far and away Sanderson’s best work, and SHADOWS OF SELF is a worthy continuation of it [...] The book is far deeper than its surface description of fantasy-western-murder-mystery might imply, and as the series progresses such themes will likely become more prominent.”
“Sanderson excels at writing solid character relationships, which are often hilarious, especially with the comedic timing between Wax and Wayne.”
Awards & Accolades
USA
#8 New York Times Bestseller List