Skyward - Brandon Sanderson

Hardcover, 513 pagesPublished November 6th 2018 by GollanczSeries: Skyward #1Sci-fi YAOwn

Oh Sanderson, I do love your books! And at the same time, OMG man, finish one series at a time. ONE. He keeps coming up with new ones, and I do realise that I will be 60 or something when he finished Stormlight, just in the mean time he will have started 20 new ones. Oh wait, and he will be dead by then too. Sigh.

But anyway, he is an amazing writer!

I can't say Spensa is very likable at first, she is angry and driven. But he is so good that it works. She wants to be a pilot, and everyone sneers at her since her dead was a coward. People are the worst!

I mean this is a society that is under constant attack by aliens, one would think they need all the pilots they can get!

Interesting world, humans crashed and tries to survive in caves as aliens attack from the sky.

Seeeecrets!

And at the end I crave more. The book is is so light and easy to read. 100 pages fly by in a second. I totally needed that!

And at the end I like her too.

Great book!

Defeated, crushed, and driven almost to extinction, the remnants of the human race are trapped on a planet that is constantly attacked by mysterious alien starfighters. Spensa, a teenage girl living among them, longs to be a pilot. When she discovers the wreckage of an ancient ship, she realizes this dream might be possible—assuming she can repair the ship, navigate flight school, and (perhaps most importantly) persuade the strange machine to help her. Because this ship, uniquely, appears to have a soul.

Oathbringer - Brandon Sanderson

Dalinar Kholin's Alethi armies won a fleeting victory at a terrible cost: The enemy Parshendi summoned the violent Everstorm, which now sweeps the world with destruction, and in its passing awakens the once peaceful and subservient parshmen to the horror of their millennia-long enslavement by humans. While on a desperate flight to warn his family of the threat, Kaladin Stormblessed must come to grips with the fact that the newly kindled anger of the parshmen may be wholly justified.

Nestled in the mountains high above the storms, in the tower city of Urithiru, Shallan Davar investigates the wonders of the ancient stronghold of the Knights Radiant and unearths dark secrets lurking in its depths. And Dalinar realizes that his holy mission to unite his homeland of Alethkar was too narrow in scope. Unless all the nations of Roshar can put aside Dalinar's blood-soaked past and stand together--and unless Dalinar himself can confront that past--even the restoration of the Knights Radiant will not prevent the end of civilization.

Paperback, 1243p
Published November 14th 2017 by Tor Books
The Stormlight Archive #3, The Cosmere
Fantasy
Own

My thoughts:
Oh Sanderson, I love your works, but....omg, this was so freaking long! I have a 10 month old baby, I do not have time for 1200 pages! You are killing me. It should have been 2 books.

Now when I can not immerse myself in books anymore I can see that he drags things out, like a lot.

Also it was like 3 years since the last one came out (or more) and I could not remember anything.

Like why is Shallan 3 people?

What happened to Jasnah?

I still like Kaladin.

Dalinar is good too

I have forgotten everything about the magic system.

SO this is a series that should not be read with too long intervals.

It was still a good book, but omg, please focus on one series man, ONE! Not one million.

And since I could not loose myself it went from amazing to just good.

Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection - Brandon Sanderson

An all-new 40,000-word Stormlight Archive novella, “Edgedancer,” will be the crown jewel of Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection, the first book of short fiction by #1 New York Times bestselling author Brandon Sanderson. A must read for fans of the series.

These wonderful works, originally published on Tor.com and elsewhere individually, convey the expanse of the Cosmere and tell exciting tales of adventure Sanderson fans have come to expect, including the Hugo Award-winning novella, “The Emperor’s Soul” and an excerpt from the graphic novel “White Sand.”

Finally, this collection includes essays and illustrations for the various planetary systems in which the stories are set. 

Hardcover, 672 pages

Published November 10th 2016 by Gollancz

Stormlight Archive #2.5, The Cosmere

Fantasy

Own

My thoughts:

“The Emperor’s Soul” (Elantris)

I did not read it as I have read it before. Check my thoughts there.

“The Hope of Elantris” (Elantris)

I guess ok. Nothing special. A short story. I did feel like I should have read Elantris before and no years before.

“The Eleventh Metal” (Mistborn)

Eh, nothing special here either. Kelsier training...yup

“Allomancer Jak and the Pits of Eltania, Episodes 28 through 30” (Mistborn)

I do not seem to be a fan of his short stories. They just feel ok all of them. Though this one would have worked as a graphic novel.

"A secret history" Mistborn

A long one, and I thought it would be meh, but it seems shorts one are eh, but long ones are better. Kelsier's story behind the scenes.

“White Sand” (excerpt; Taldain)

Ohhh a graphic novel. Very cool.

“Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell” (Threnody)

I have read this one before. Check it there.

“Sixth of Dusk” (First of the Sun)

This was an interesting world, I would like to see more from it.

Edgedancer

I liked this story and I reeeeeally makes me want to read Oathbringer

Conclusion:

As they got longer they got better. Sanderson needs to write long ones cos he needs his world. He excels there.

Alcatraz and the Evil Librarians - Brandon Sanderson

On his thirteenth birthday, foster child Alcatraz Smedry gets a bag of sand in the mail-his only inheritance from his father and mother. He soon learns that this is no ordinary bag of sand. It is quickly stolen by the cult of evil Librarians who are taking over the world by spreading misinformation and suppressing truth. Alcatraz must stop them, using the only weapon he has: an incredible talent for breaking things.

My thoughts:

I actually did not like this one as much as I had wanted to. It is Sanderson, and he does write well, but I think it was the story and the tone. It was too MG for me. But for the MG/YA crowd out there, go for it.

Oh and the story was so weird...

Alcatraz...how to even explain this without spoiling it all?! Librarians are bad, I mean really bad, and they rule the world.There are other places where they do not rule and those people try to fight them off. And Alcatraz finds out that he is from one of those places. Off he sets on an adventure with his crazy grandpa and friends. He has no idea what is going on. They all sound insane.

There are evil librarians after them. Secrets, and more.

Conclusion:
So it was good, but I was not the audience for this and could not always like it. But I can appreciate the craziness. 

Hardcover, 320 pages
Published February 16th 2016 by Starscape (first published October 1st 2007)
Alcatraz #1
MG/YA/Fantasy
Library

Calamity - Brandon Sanderson

When Calamity lit up the sky, the Epics were born. David’s fate has been tied to their villainy ever since that historic night. Steelheart killed his father. Firefight stole his heart. And now Regalia has turned his closest ally into a dangerous enemy.

David knew Prof’s secret, and kept it even when Prof struggled to control the effects of his Epic powers. But facing Obliteration in Babilar was too much. Once the Reckoners’ leader, Prof has now embraced his Epic destiny. He’s disappeared into those murky shadows of menace Epics are infamous for the world over, and everyone knows there’s no turning back. . .

But everyone is wrong. Redemption is possible for Epics—Megan proved it. They’re not lost. Not completely. And David is just about crazy enough to face down the most powerful High Epic of all to get his friend back. Or die trying. 

My thoughts:

I am having I have nothing to say day *yawns* I am out-reviewed. But let's try it.

Last book in the series, The prof is now a high epic. David and the gang want to save the world from Epics. Calamity is an epic. Stuff is going down!

I read it fast, it was an easy read. I like the world he created, but then Sanderson is always good with worlds. I liked that we finally met Calamity, ohhhhhh. I liked the twist with firefight and David for that matter too.

Conclusion:
It was a good end to this series, but then it is Sanderson, and hey, he is a great writer.

Though, I totally wish he could focus on one series at a time, how many am I reading?! Like a million.

Cover
boring

Hardcover, 432 pages
Published February 18th 2016 by Gollancz
Reckoners #3
YA/Dystopia
Own

Firefight - Brandon Sanderson

They told David it was impossible--that even the Reckoners had never killed a High Epic. Yet, Steelheart--invincible, immortal, unconquerable--is dead. And he died by David's hand. 

Eliminating Steelheart was supposed to make life more simple. Instead, it only made David realize he has questions. Big ones. And there's no one in Newcago who can give him the answers he needs. 

Babylon Restored, the old borough of Manhattan, has possibilities, though. Ruled by the mysterious High Epic, Regalia, David is sure Babylon Restored will lead him to what he needs to find. And while entering another city oppressed by a High Epic despot is a gamble, David's willing to risk it. Because killing Steelheart left a hole in David's heart. A hole where his thirst for vengeance once lived. Somehow, he filled that hole with another Epic--Firefight. And he's willing to go on a quest darker, and more dangerous even, than the fight against Steelheart to find her, and to get his answers. 

My thoughts:

Ok..I am gonna be totally honest. This book is good, but not...Sanderson awesome. We all know his works are awesome (and if you do not then you should read them all!)

He still creates this awesome world with some humans having superpowers and going crazy with power and bloodlust. The earth is pretty much a wasteland, the Epics rule and destroy. He knows how to create a cool world.

Just, it's YA. Hey, before you say anything, yes of course I know it a YA series, it's still Sanderson, it is still a good book!. It's just not you know his fantasy amazing ones... I do love his fantasy ones.

And of course I would walk on glass to read book 3 at once. What?! It's SANDERSON!

But...it's not Sanderson epic.

I have issues.

I have said nothing about the story *headdesk*

They are gonna kill an EPIC. NY is flooded. Bad guys. Meghan. All is well. What oops, revelations! 

Conclusion:

Good

Cover

meh

Paperback, 416 pages
Published November 12th 2015 by Gollancz (first published January 6th 2015)
Reckoners #2
YA / Dystopia superhero
Own

The Bands of Mourning - Brandon Sanderson

The Bands of Mourning are the mythical metalminds owned by the Lord Ruler, said to grant anyone who wears them the powers that the Lord Ruler had at his command. Hardly anyone thinks they really exist. A kandra researcher has returned to Elendel with images that seem to depict the Bands, as well as writings in a language that no one can read. Waxillium Ladrian is recruited to travel south to the city of New Seran to investigate. Along the way he discovers hints that point to the true goals of his uncle Edwarn and the shadowy organization known as The Set. 

My thoughts:

I do love all his books (even if I wish he would focus on one series at a time cos right now I want more of this one, more of that one, that one, that one, that one ..you get the idea).

I also can't give this one the awesome review it deserves since all I want is to run around in a fan girl squeeeeeee. Ha, yes it is so hard to to tell you of its awesomeness.

I really do like Wax, he is so cool. He tries to be a Lord, but he has spent too much time in the Rough as a lawman. But then a Lord can be eccentric, but maybe not this much. But hey I love him.

I like his fiancee Seris because she is just so weird you know. She has a list for everything! And , Wayne, can't like or dislike him, he is a strange one. But a good sidekick to Wax. They all fit perfectly with each other. Oh and then there is the Kandra who joins them for this adventure, yeah, those are weird. You will see.

A fantasy western. A society that is moving forwards. A society with magic and we all know Sanderson has the best magic systems. You will not be disappointed.

Here they must find the Bands of Mourning. Wax wants to track down his uncle. And oh, oh there is something at the end, I was all whaaat? All the things we do not know. Love it.

But, do read the two previous books first, or just all of them. Yes, make that read every book he has written.

Another awesome book by Sanderson. He is always good, and he always surprises.  He is a true master of his craft.

Cover

nice

Hardcover, 448 pages
Expected publication: January 26th 2016 by Tor Books
Mistborn #6, Mistborn - Alloy Era #3, The Cosmere
Fantasy
For review

Shadows of Self - Brandon Sanderson

Shadows of Self shows Mistborn’s society evolving as technology and magic mix, the economy grows, 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 labor strife and religious conflict. Wax and Wayne, assisted by the lovely, brilliant Marasi, must unravel the conspiracy before civil strife stops Scadrial’s progress in its tracks.

My thoughts:

I do confess that my memory is not the best, and it was 3 years since I read book 4. But that is why this book was so good. It worked splendidly as a stand alone. And note, yes this is book 5, no this is not book 5. The first 3 books is a trilogy, book 4 and 5 takes place 300 years later and form their own series, and a continuation. 

Wax, a nobleman, and former lawman in the wild west, is trying to keep his house together and investigate what's happening in the city. To help him he has Wayne (who is weird, and good), and Marise, a cop. The investigation does not keep them all together, they are out doing their own things.

I need to get back to that whole western comment. Yes this is fantasy, but society has evolved and they now have steam, guns and even electricity. And the outskirts are still a bit wild. And magic is still around too, but if you know Sanderson then you know his magic is always unique.  That is why I am a Sandeson fangirl after all.

Back to the story. There is unrest in the city, people are upset, food is scarce, and someone is trying to start a rebellion. And we can't have society burn to ash again now can we?

Conclusion:

Good characters, a nice story and mystery, and as always, a awesome world and magic system. At least two more books are coming, and since a thing was mentioned at the end, oh it made me so very very curious. I will just wait for the next one then.

Cover

Ok

Hardcover, 384 pages
Expected publication: October 6th 2015 by Tor Books
Mistborn #5, Mistborn - Alloy Era #2, The Cosmere
Fantasy
For review

Mitosis - Brandon Sanderson

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Words of Radiance, co-author of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series and creator of the internationally bestselling Mistborn Trilogy, Brandon Sanderson, comes Mitosis, a short story set in the action-packed world of Steelheart: the Reckoners series, exclusively available in a HB collector's edition. Epics still plague Newcago, but David and the Reckoners have vowed to fight back. Catch all the action before Firefight, the exciting sequel to Steelheart, hits the shelves. 

My thoughts:

A short story that takes place after book 1. Newcago is trying to get back to normal. Our hero is enjoying a hot dog and normality. But alas, like life could be normal in this post-apocalypic dystopic world.

There is a new baddie to take down and that is what the story is about. An Epic fight to be had.

Short, nice, I do understand the epics now. The power that makes them insane. What good is superhero powers if it makes you into a sociopath? 

I am looking forward to book 2 where the fight to rid the world of Epics will continue. 

Hardcover, Gollancz Hardback Collector's Edition, 35 pages
Published October 23rd 2014 by Gollancz (first published January 1st 2013)
Reckoners #1.5
Dystopia / YA / sci.fi / apocalyptic
For review

Steelheart - Brandon Sanderson

How far would you go for revenge if someone killed your father? If someone destroyed your city? If everything you ever loved was taken from you?

David Charleston will go to any lengths to stop Steelheart. But to exact revenge in Steelheart’s world, David will need the Reckoners—a shadowy group of rebels bent on maintaining justice.  And it turns out that the Reckoners might just need David too.

My thoughts:

Ok, so this was a bit different than the other Sanderson books I have read. It was futuristic, sci-fi, dystopic superheroic. It would be a good superhero book, oh and a good graphic novel too.

Something happened and people around the world got superhero powers. Which seems to have turned them all into sociopath psychopaths. Destroying cities, killing people and taking over and making themselves kings.

David lives underground, as everyone who is not important has to live there. He is a nerd, and most of all he wants revenge on the ruler of the city. I liked him, but then I do like nerds.

It was kind of non-stop action all the time. Hunting down bad guys, running from bad guys, blowing things up, hiding from bad guys and last, one epic fight. There are surprises, revelations and well, I enjoyed it. Yes it was different, yes I do prefer his fantasy books, but it was cool.

Cover

meh

Paperback, 384 pages
Published September 23rd 2014 by Ember (first published January 1st 2013)
Reckoners #1
YA
Own

The Rithmatist - Brandon Sanderson

More than anything, Joel wants to be a Rithmatist. Chosen by the Master in a mysterious inception ceremony, Rithmatists have the power to infuse life into two-dimensional figures known as Chalklings. Rithmatists are humanity’s only defense against the Wild Chalklings—merciless creatures that leave mangled corpses in their wake. Having nearly overrun the territory of Nebrask, the Wild Chalklings now threaten all of the American Isles. 

As the son of a lowly chalkmaker at Armedius Academy, Joel can only watch as Rithmatist students study the magical art that he would do anything to practice. Then students start disappearing - kidnapped from their rooms at night, leaving trails of blood. Assigned to help the professor who is investigating the crimes, Joel and his friend Melody find themselves on the trail of an unexpected discovery—one that will change Rithmatics - and their world - forever.

My thoughts:

How to explain this one...*thinks some more about it*. Honestly just read it. Sanderson is masterful when it comes to magic systems, they are always new, cool and takes a while to explain.

This is alternate history where some empires, fell and other empires rose. The world is very different. Steampunk too, and magic. A rithmatist can draw lines to protect himself and create chalklings (from chalk ;). There is also wild ones out there and that is part of the plot. What is really going on?

Our hero Joel would love to become a Rithmatist but he can't, they are chosen at 8 and he was not chosen. He knows everything about it though. A clever kid, with his head in the clouds a bit. He doesn't have any real friends either as most other kids are rich, and he is not. But you will see.

The plot is that someone is killing Rithmatist kids, but who and why?

Conclusion:

A solid book that kept getting better and better. I can't wait to read more adventures with him to to explore this world even more. All in all, Sanderson is awesome as always.

Cover

eh

Paperback, 372 pages
Published May 16th 2013 by Orion Childrens (first published May 13th 2013)
Rithmatist #1
YA / Fantasy/ Steampunk
Own

Words of Radiance - Brandon Sanderson

In that first volume, we were introduced to the remarkable world of Roshar, a world both alien and magical, where gigantic hurricane-like storms scour the surface every few days and life has adapted accordingly. Roshar is shared by humans and the enigmatic, humanoid Parshendi, with whom they are at war. Among those caught up in the conflict are Brightlord Dalinar Kholin, who leads the human armies; his sister Jasnah, a renowned scholar; her student Shallan, a brilliant but troubled young woman; and Kaladin, a military slave who, by the book’s end, had become the first magically endowed Knight Radiant in centuries.

In Words of Radiance their intertwined stories will continue and, as Sanderson fans have come to expect, develop in unexpected, wonderfully surprising directions. The war with the Parshendi will move into a new, dangerous phase, as Dalinar leads the human armies deep into the heart of the Shattered Plains in a bold attempt to finally end it. Shallan will come along, hoping to find the legendary, perhaps mythical, city of Urithuru, which Jasnah believes holds a secret vital to mankind’s survival on Roshar. The Parshendi take a dangerous step to strengthen themselves for the human challenge, risking the return of the fearsome Voidbringers of old. To deal with it all, Kaladin must learn to how to fulfill his new role as leader of the restored Knights Radiant, while mastering the powers of a Windrunner.

My thoughts:

I have been trying to write this review for 3 hours now. I just can't put down words about how amazing the world and book is. Sanderson is a world building genius. The thought he puts down into his worlds are inspiring. And this time around I realized something I had missed, most of his books are connected cos they are in the same universe, "the Sanderson universe", not called that, he even has a name. They are all different magic and such, but like I said, world building genius who created a universe.

Yes it is long, very long, very very long. But do not let that scare you. I got caught up in the world, I could not tear myself away from this book, it lay there radiant and called to me. I even cried at one point as the book tore a  hole in my soul.

The book has 3 main POVs, and a few smaller ones. We follow Kaladin who is no longer a slave (and I am his fangirl). I loved his POV, and it was the POV that made me cry that one time.

Then we have Shallan, in this world the men fight, the women do everything else so she is smart and resourceful. Loves to think and draw. I remember that it took a while for me to really like her in book 1, but she sure has matured and I respect her now.

Then there is Dalinar, with the world on his shoulder, how I liked the end, go Dalinar.

Except for Shallan's part (as she is on her way) most of the book takes place in the shattered plains. We have fighting against the enemy, fighting among themselves and different factions trying to steer events or make things not happen. So I have NO idea who to trust of the strangers at this point, lots of shadowy figures. Lots of things I want to know.

Also there is a lot of artwork inside that truly lifts the book even higher.

Conclusion:

The series is amazing, this book is amazing, did I say amazing already? I did? Ok, it's awesome. If you love fantasy you must read this book. If you love books, then read this book. It's masterful and I could not put it down.

Highly recommended. 

Cover

Nice but the one of Shallan inside is really good, I have that one as my wallpaper.

Hardcover, 1087 pages
Published March 4th 2014 by Tor Books
The Stormlight Archive #2
Fantasy
For review

Audio Friday: Once, Legion and The Mysterious Howling

Felix, a Jewish boy in Poland in 1942, is hiding from the Nazis in a Catholic orphanage. The only problem is that he doesn't know anything about the war, and thinks he's only in the orphanage while his parents travel and try to salvage their bookselling business. And when he thinks his parents are in danger, Felix sets off to warn them--straight into the heart of Nazi-occupied Poland. 

To Felix, everything is a story: Why did he get a whole carrot in his soup? It must be sign that his parents are coming to get him. Why are the Nazis burning books? They must be foreign librarians sent to clean out the orphanage's outdated library. But as Felix's journey gets increasingly dangerous, he begins to see horrors that not even stories can explain.

My thoughts:

It was sad...it was very sad. But then what can you expect from a story that is about a Jewish boy in Nazi occupied Poland.

Felix was so naive and it killed me at times. He did not know what was going on and later when he saw people get killed he still did not understood that it was dangerous. He made up stories about everything and saw something.."nicer" in what happened. But it was such a good story, heartbreaking, totally heartbreaking. It was also a story that everyone should read.

I listened to the audio version and Gleitzman was a great narrator. 

But I warn you, the end...you will have to read more after that ending.

Would I read more?

Yes

Cover

Bad

Audiobook, Digital Download, Unabridged
Around 3 hours
Published August 1st 2005 by Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd (first published January 1st 2005)
Once #1
YA /historical fiction

Stephen Leeds, AKA “Legion,” is a man whose unique mental condition allows him to generate a multitude of personae: hallucinatory entities with a wide variety of personal characteristics and a vast array of highly specialized skills. As the story begins, Leeds and his “aspects” are drawn into the search for the missing Balubal Razon, inventor of a camera whose astonishing properties could alter our understanding of human history and change the very structure of society. The action ranges from the familiar environs of America to the ancient, divided city of Jerusalem. 

My thoughts:

I Listened to the audio version and the narrator was ok. Most of his accents he did well, one bugged me though.

The concept was cool, this guy lives in a huge mansion which is filled with his hallucinations. It seems he is really smart and they help him figure things out. The story is when he goes hunting after a camera that can takes pictures of things in the past. Now would't that be cool ;)

It was ok. But I do prefer his fantasy works.

Would I read more?

From this?...no

Cover

Bleh

Audiobook, Audible, Unabridged, 2 hours?
Published October 2nd 2012 by Audible Frontiers (first published August 31st 2012)
Oliver Wyman, narrator
Short story / paranormal /sci.fi

Found running wild in the forest of Ashton Place, the Incorrigibles are no ordinary children: Alexander, age ten or thereabouts, keeps his siblings in line with gentle nips; Cassiopeia, perhaps four or five, has a bark that is (usually) worse than her bite; and Beowulf, age somewhere-in-the-middle, is alarmingly adept at chasing squirrels.

Luckily, Miss Penelope Lumley is no ordinary governess. Only fifteen years old and a recent graduate of the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females, Penelope embraces the challenge of her new position. Though she is eager to instruct the children in Latin verbs and the proper use of globes, first she must help them overcome their canine tendencies.

But mysteries abound at Ashton Place: Who are these three wild creatures, and how did they come to live in the vast forests of the estate? Why does Old Timothy, the coachman, lurk around every corner? Will Penelope be able to teach the Incorrigibles table manners and socially useful phrases in time for Lady Constance's holiday ball? And what on earth is a schottische?

My thoughts:

Now this one worked perfectly as an audio book. It had a good narrator and it was easy to listen too.

The story was fun and cute. A young governess taking care of 3 children who has lived in the wild. And there is something mysterious going on too...

I do not have a lot to say about this one. I mean it was adorable in the way it was written. I would totally listen to more.

Would I read more?

yes

Cover

Cute

Audio CD, 5 hours or so
Published by Listening Library (first published March 1st 2010)
The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #1
Katherine Kellgren, narrator
MG / historical fiction

Review: The Emperor's soul - Brandon Sanderson

Shai is a Forger, a foreigner who can flawlessly copy and re-create any item by rewriting its history with skillful magic. Condemned to death after trying to steal the emperor’s scepter, she is given one opportunity to save herself. Though her skill as a Forger is considered an abomination by her captors, Shai will attempt to create a new soul for the emperor, who is almost dead. 

Probing deeply into his life, she discovers Emperor Ashravan’s truest nature—and the opportunity to exploit it. Her only possible ally is one who is truly loyal to the emperor, but councilor Gaotona must overcome his prejudices to understand that Shai’s forgery is as much artistry as it is deception. 

My thoughts:

This book was short, so very short, but that does not matter. I will in the end read anything by Brandon Sanderson.

In 175 pages he tells the story of Shai, who is a forger (do not make me go into details. She creates things, let's leave it at that.) She is in prison, and those in power need her forging. She is clever, insightful and very good at what she does. As the book is very short we see her hurrying with what she is tasked to do, cos else she will die.

The world building and magic is not laid out open as there is not enough time, but Sanderson still manages to explain what forging is and hint about an interesting world. Of course I would have loved to see it grow even more, to explore it more and about Shai. But we can't have it all, and I will take what I get. 

Conclusion:

It was an easy book that can be read in a few hours.

Cover

Well..it does look kind of cool

YA /fantasy
175 pages
Published October 11th 2012 by Tachyon Publications
Own

Review: Alloy of Law - Brandon Sanderson

In the three hundred years since the events of the Mistborn trilogy, science and technology have marched on. Scadrial is now on the verge of modernity, with railroads, electric lighting, and even the first steel-framed skyscrapers racing for the clouds.

Yet even with these advances, the magics of Allomancy and Feruchemy continue to play a role in this reborn world. Out in the frontier lands known as the Roughs, they are crucial tools for those attempting to establish order and justice.

One is Waxillium Ladrian, a rare Twinborn who can Push on metals with his Allomancy and use Feruchemy to become lighter or heavier at will. After twenty years in the Roughs, Wax must now put away his guns and assume the duties incumbent upon the head of a noble house—until he learns the hard way that the mansions and elegant tree-lined streets of the city can be even more dangerous than the dusty plains of the Roughs.

My thoughts:

I do like Sanderson's works, but please focus on one thing! He has a crazy amount of books going on. This one, that is a stand alone continuation of the Mistborn series will have a follow up in 2014. Or whenever. And will it be a real follow up? I do not know, but I hope so as things sure were left unfinished.

Still it was a good, if weird fantasy novel. As it takes place after the Mistborn apocalypse (or whatever we should call it). The world has turned to steam and guns. It's a western world. And it certainly is nothing I have come across. I am sure some would talk about steaampunk too, but nah, would not say that it's that. Just normal progress,

Into this returns Lawkeeper Wax to become Lord of his House. A pretty cool guy. A nice sidekick turns up too. Wax tries to be a good Lord, and he also tries to marry to get some money into the house. All while things and people are stolen in the city and he is soon on the case.

Conclusion:

So we are left with a western fantasy mystery. An easy read that I enjoyed. Still maybe to new for me. I like my fantasy old. I also wanted more and I do hope I get come closure.

Cover Cool

Series: Mistborn #4
Genre: Fantasy, mystery, "fantasy mystery western"
Pages: 392
Published: 2012 by TOR
Source. own

Review: A Memory of Light - Robert Jordan

In the Field of Merrilor the rulers of the nations gather to join behind Rand al’Thor, or to stop him from his plan to break the seals on the Dark One’s prison – which may be a sign of his madness, or the last hope of humankind. Egwene, the Amyrlin Seat, leans toward the former.

In Andor, the Trollocs seize Caemlyn.

In the wolf dream, Perrin Aybara battles Slayer.

Approaching Ebou Dar, Mat Cauthon plans to visit his wife Tuon, now Fortuona, Empress of the Seanchan.

All humanity is in peril – and the outcome will be decided in Shayol Ghul itself. The Wheel is turning, and the Age is coming to its end. The Last Battle will determine the fate of the world . . .

My thoughts:

Once upon a time long long ago a young girl newly addicted to fantasy went looking for more to read. And so she found The Wheel of Time and fell happily in love. Fast forward almost 17 years and I finally got the last book. In the mean time the author passed away and my heart was broken until I heard that Brandon Sanderson would finish it from Jordan's notes.

Honestly what can I say. For the first 300 pages I was all I have it! I have it!!! I did not stop to eat or even pee. I just read on. I read on while bf was looking for books at the library (as we had just been by the post office to get my book). I was a zombie that did not want to stop. Had I not had a job I would have read all night long. Now sadly that did not work :(

900 pages of battles, of death, destruction, heart ache, surprises. I can't say anything because that would spoil it all. A thrilling conclusion.

But I can say that I hate the effing Seanchan. Haha, what else is new. They are just a messed up slave society.

Rand, aww, I remember why I had a character crush on him in the first place. Some characters disappointed me, some made me happy, some made me sad.

And the end then. I feel very conflicted about the end. It was the end I had seen. I am happy about the end, but at the same time the end made me want more. It felt like there could be more. Maybe I am just sad that it's the end. I have spent too many years in this world. Oh I want to re-read book 1 again :D

Conclusion:
It was a great finish to this series, I will miss it and of course I recommend this series to all. Even if some of those middle books move slowly ;) But the thing is that when I read them the first time around I devoured them all.

Cover:
Really? I know that he got an older look in his eyes after he accepted his faith but this guy looks like 40

Series: The Wheel of Time #14
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 909
Published: January 2013 by TOR
Source: Own

Review: Towers of Midnight - Robert Jordan

Perrin Aybara is now hunted by specters from his past: Whitecloaks, a slayer of wolves, and the responsibilities of leadership. All the while, an unseen foe is slowly pulling a noose tight around his neck. To prevail, he must seek answers in Tel’aran’rhiod and find a way—at long last—to master the wolf within him or lose himself to it forever.

Meanwhile, Matrim Cauthon prepares for the most difficult challenge of his life. The creatures beyond the stone gateways—the Aelfinn and the Eelfinn—have confused him, taunted him, and left him hanged, his memory stuffed with bits and pieces of other men’s lives. He had hoped that his last confrontation with them would be the end of it, but the Wheel weaves as the Wheel wills. The time is coming when he will again have to dance with the Snakes and the Foxes, playing a game that cannot be won. The Tower of Ghenjei awaits, and its secrets will reveal the fate of a friend long lost.

My thoughts:

First just let me say how much I hate the Seanchan, and they are not even the bad guys, well ok they are bad, but not THE bad guys. Here we get insight into what might happen if the world comes out ok after the last battle. And I will only say that I hope everyone last Seanchan ends up in a Trollock pot and get eaten. There is no hope for this world and the Seanchan is so ruthless in that their way is the only way.

Yup hating the Seanchan.

Find myself understanding *coughs* sort of, Galad. Kind of even like that idiot.

Elayne is a complete moron. The babies must have addled her brain.

How did Egwene become so wise so fast? Please.

Lan is riding to his doom, go Lan!

Mat wants to save Moiriane. One would think he could go to his wife and get that idiot to see some sense first. Grr Seanchan scum.

Rand is all peaceful..freaky.

Perrin is cool. Faile is meh.

Berelain finds her true love, why is everyone really pretty or handsome in this book?

Finding more LOTR parallels.

And everyone is moving towards the Last Battle...does that mean the final book is 900 pages of battle!? o_O

Conclusion:

YAY I can't wait for the last book. Yes I am harsh at times but I love this series.

Covers: 

These UK ones are dull

Hopefully I will manage to give you a review of book 14 soon if the postal Gods will smile upon me

And this concludes my WOT re-reading challenge, yay

Series: The wheel of time #13
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 843
Published: 2010 by Orbit
Source. Own

Review: The gathering storm - Robert Jordan

Rand al’Thor, the Dragon Reborn, struggles to unite a fractured network of kingdoms and alliances in preparation for the Last Battle. As he attempts to halt the Seanchan encroachment northward---wishing he could form at least a temporary truce with the invaders---his allies watch in terror the shadow that seems to be growing within the heart of the Dragon Reborn himself.

Egwene al’Vere, the Amyrlin Seat of the rebel Aes Sedai, is a captive of the White Tower and subject to the whims of their tyrannical leader. As days tick toward the Seanchan attack she knows is imminent, Egwene works to hold together the disparate factions of Aes Sedai while providing leadership in the face of increasing uncertainty and despair. Her fight will prove the mettle of the Aes Sedai, and her conflict will decide the future of the White Tower---and possibly the world itself.

My thoughts:

I read my other review of this book and found it interesting (here, I was very happy back then) I really liked Rand before, now, eh, he is so dark and, I guess just not the guy for me this time around. I am more of a Perrin gal.

No more thinking of that other review. What did I think here...? Some things happened that I had totally forgotten, it has to do with the Black Ajah. Good thing I read it again then ;)

I am craving the end now, oh how slowly this series moves. It sure shows when I have read all in a year. I am also discovering plotholes. Time is moving strangely. No time at all has really passed, still Rand has gone insane, Elayne is preggers and Egwene got a new personality. 

Conclusion:

But it's a great series, even if we could have skipped a few books in the middle ;)

Cover

LOL! Ok so you can't see it that good but the woman in the back has some bad looking hooker make-up on, that and her boobs. So I get the impression that it's a brothel and he just could not get it up so he blew a hole in the wall and rushed out to curse at the sky.. ;)

Series: The Wheel of Time #12
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 783
Published: 2009 by TOR
Source Own

Review: Warbreaker - Brandon Sanderson

Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 600
Published: Dec 2011 (2009)
Publisher: Gollancz
Source: For review

Warbreaker is the story of two sisters, who happen to be princesses, the God King one of them has to marry, the lesser god who doesn’t like his job, and the immortal who’s still trying to undo the mistakes he made hundreds of years ago.

Their world is one in which those who die in glory return as gods to live confined to a pantheon in Hallandren’s capital city and where a power known as BioChromatic magic is based on an essence known as breath that can only be collected one unit at a time from individual people.

By using breath and drawing upon the color in everyday objects, all manner of miracles and mischief can be accomplished. It will take considerable quantities of each to resolve all the challenges facing Vivenna and Siri, princesses of Idris; Susebron the God King; Lightsong, reluctant god of bravery, and mysterious Vasher, the Warbreaker.

My thoughts:

Brandon Sanderson is a master world builder, but here it is the magic system that he builds with thought and precision. The world is of course still well built, but the magic, oh the magic just blows you away. I will not even try to explain it, he does it much better. But to simplify, everyone has got breaths, if you got more then you can use those for magic. There is also this thing about colors and how some have returned to life. But yes just read the book. Or else I will spend the rest of this review on the magical system in this world.

It's a world where the Returned and the Godking with his priests rules the kingdom we see most of. They are terrible and worships people who have come back to life. At least that is what our heroines from Idris think. Siri, is young and out of control, but in any other country she would just be filled with life. I liked her because she was real, human. While her sister Vivienne is collected and does her duty well. One of them will marry the terrible Godking to save their country from war.

The story is about these two sisters who are trying to survive and do what is best. It's also about a mysterious stranger called Vasher whom I do not know if I should trust or not when he is skulking about. And it is about Lifesong, one of the Returned. He died, he came back, and he is a God with doubts. My favorite character was Siri because just of the way her story went, which I will tell you no more about. I also liked the Lifesong bits since the whole concept about these Gods was so interesting. But then Viv's story took me for a few surprises too. All in all making all the characters so much more than I would have thought. It is a book about changes, freedom, doubt, misconceptions and more.

This book is it, yes there are no trilogy or 10 books to wait for. You will get a conclusion in it so that is a big plus for me. It's nice with a one book fantasy "series" once in a while.

Conclusion:

It was good and the magic, oh he creates it so well. Where does he come up with these ideas? I do love Brandon Sanderson's books.

Cover:

Not a big fan of the cover

Review: Elantris - Brandon Sanderson

Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 656
Published: August 11, 2011 (2005)
Publisher: Gollancz
Source: For review

Elantris was the capital of Arelon: gigantic, beautiful and filled with benevolent beings who used their powerful magical abilities for the benefit of all. Yet each of these demigods was once an ordinary person until touched by the mysterious transforming power of the Shaod. Ten years ago, without warning, the magic failed. Elantrians became wizened, leper-like, powerless creatures, and Elantris itself dark, filthy, and crumbling. Arelon's new capital, Kae, crouches in the shadow of Elantris. Princess Sarene of Teod arrives for a marriage of state with Crown Prince Raoden. She finds instead that Raoden has died and she is considered his widow. Both Teod and Arelon are under threat as the last remaining holdouts against the imperial ambitions of the ruthless religious fanatics of Fjordell. So Sarene decides to use her new status to counter the machinations of Hrathen, a Fjordell high priest who has come to Kae to convert Arelon and claim it for his emperor and his god. But neither Sarene nor Hrathen suspect the truth about Prince Raoden. Stricken by the same curse that ruined Elantris, Raoden was secretly exiled by his father to the dark city. His struggle to help the wretches trapped there begins a series of events that will bring hope to Arelon, and perhaps reveal the secret of Elantris itself.

My thoughts:

This was Sanderson's debut and already here he showed why he is such a wonderful fantasy writer. The book is also different in a way since this is it, there is no series. This book is it and I liked that.´There was an end to it.

Sanderson is a master when it comes to creating religions, political intrigues and magical systems, he just does it so well. His books shines with it and they are a joy to read. The imagination and work he puts in to his stories makes them so much more.

In this story we meet prince Raoden who is tossed into Elantris to die a miserable death and his family proclaims he died from some sudden disease. He is a true hero and loves his people. And now being Elantrian he does his best to help this poor people. Because they are, well zombies in a way. They feel every wound and they seem to be rotting away. When the pain is too much they just lie down and stay like that. The big question is why this is happening since Elantrians used to have power and magic, but then came the curse...

Sarene is the other main character. She comes as a bride but lands as a widow. Still she stays because just as Raoden wants to save Elantrians now, Sarene wants to save her new people and the people back home. She is no scared little princess, she has a keen mind and is not afraid to say what she thinks.

This book is a lot about the political intrigues that are going on in this country and abroad. There is a big bad empire with a religious ruler who wants to take over the world and make everyone believe in his faith. The people in Arelon does believe in the same god, but there are two roads to God, and as we do know people will always find fault in others. Especially when it comes to religious zealotism and here that is truly shown. Because even if Hrathen is bad with his die or convert scheme then there are worse men out there and we meet them. This religion also despises the former Elantrians since they were almost like Gods.

The other part of the political world is the inner turmoil in the country. The Elantrians used to rule but when that broke down the rich took over and created an order where the richest have titles, and the poor are even poorer and in serfdom. It is a system which is crumbling and seems ripe to be plucked by conquerors. 

I have already said that I like the magic, politics and religion he creates. But he also creates such wonderful characters to root for, or hate with a passion. And while doing just that you have this dread inside of you, because how can this book end well? Raoden is rotting, Sarene is playing with fire and there is an Empire who wants to crush everyone.

Conclusion:

A great fantasy book that I could not put down. I was so immersed in the story and wanted to know what would happen to them all. It is a book I recommend and if you are afraid of long fantasy epics then this one book (even if long to some) is a great book for you to start with.

Rating:

Could not put it down

Cover:

I am not a fan of these, but it kind of grows on me. But it seems a bit..sci-fiesqe