In Mistborn: The Final Empire, Kelsier, a Mistborn with abilities derived from metals, assembles a team of skaa thieves to overthrow the evil Lord Ruler, who has oppressed the skaa for a millennium. The team, including newcomer Vin, a Mistborn herself, must navigate the treacherous noble society while sparking a skaa rebellion to achieve their goal of toppling the Final Empire.

Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson receives high praise for its unique magic system, compelling world-building, and complex characters. Many reviewers highlight Sanderson's strong plot development and engaging writing style. However, some criticize the pacing and predictability of certain plot twists. Overall, it's well-regarded for its originality and depth.

Readers who revel in intricate magic systems, deep world-building, and ensemble casts will enjoy Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson. Fans of The Name of the Wind and A Game of Thrones will appreciate its detailed lore and unexpected plot twists. This book suits those who thrive on epic fantasy with a touch of political intrigue and moral complexity.

Adventurous / Mysterious / Suspenseful / Fantastical / Gritty

- Mistborn: The Final Empire was originally self-published by Sanderson, and it was through this process that it caught the attention of mainstream publishers.
- One of the intriguing concepts in the Mistborn series is Allomancy, a magic system where users gain abilities by ingesting and "burning" specific metals.
- Brandon Sanderson has said that he envisioned the Mistborn series as a trilogy of trilogies, with each set of books taking place in different technological eras of the same world.

**Kelsier**  
A charismatic and skilled Mistborn, Kelsier is a half-blood skaa and former thief who aspires to overthrow the oppressive rule of the Lord Ruler.

**Vin**  
A resourceful and talented young Mistborn, Vin starts as an uncertain member of a thieving crew and grows to embrace her powers while navigating trust and identity.

**Elend Venture**  
The heir to House Venture, Elend is unconventional among nobles, possessing a genuine interest in political reform and sympathy for the skaa.

**Breeze**  
A powerful Soother known for his ability to subtly manipulate emotions, Breeze brings a lighthearted yet cunning presence to Kelsier’s crew.

**Ham**  
A thoughtful Thug of Kelsier's crew who uses his Allomantic strength for both physical tasks and philosophical debates, always concerned for his family’s well-being.

**Clubs**  
An Allomantic Smoker who runs the crew's lair, providing essential cover for their activities by concealing their use of Allomancy.

**Spook**  
The crew's Tineye who excels in observation and reconnaissance, contributing his keen senses to their underground efforts.

**Dockson**  
The practical and organized member of Kelsier's crew, Dockson serves as the administrative backbone despite not possessing Allomantic abilities.

**Sazed**  
A Terris Keeper and steward with vast religious knowledge, Sazed is a mentor figure, equipped with Feruchemical abilities that allow him to store and later utilize physical attributes.

Brandon Sanderson

Novel

The Mistborn Saga

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Mistborn reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Mistborn | SuperSummary

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Overview

Get ready to explore Mistborn and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Mistborn Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Survivor of Hathsin”

Prologue and Part 1, Chapters 1-5

Mistborn Prologue and Part 1, Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 6-8

Mistborn Part 1, Chapters 6-8 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Rebels Beneath a Sky of Ash”

Part 2, Chapters 9-15

Mistborn Part 2, Chapters 9-15 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Children of a Bleeding Sun”

Part 3, Chapters 16-21

Mistborn Part 3, Chapters 16-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 22-25

Mistborn Part 3, Chapters 22-25 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Dancers in a Sea of Mist”

Part 4, Chapters 26-34

Mistborn Part 4, Chapters 26-34 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Believers in a Forgotten World”

Part 5, Chapters 35-38 and Epilogue

Mistborn Part 5, Chapters 35-38 and Epilogue Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Mistborn Character Analysis

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Themes

Mistborn Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Mistborn Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Mistborn Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Mistborn Essay Topics

Mistborn: The Final Empire

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Mistborn?

Reading Age

Book Details