#i already did mistborn era 2 spoilers

[jochi-the-veristithaylen-baker]

Kelsier: *solves everything by killing noblemen*

Everyone on Scadrial: If only Kelsier was here, he'd have a great way to solve this problem.

Every nobleman on Roshar when they meet an assassin: I bet Kelsier planned this, it feels like something he'd do.

[cosmerelists]

Randomly Paired Cosmere Characters On A Date

I have a list of 112 Cosmere characters I feel vaguely comfortable writing for and a random number generator. Let's see what happens!

(Upon my honor, I did not finagle with these results beyond rerolling any repeat characters and not allowing Tien to go on a date with Gaz because gross.)

[Spoilers for the end of Mistborn Era 1!]

1. Eshonai & Teft

Eshonai: I am excited. This is the first date I've been on with a human! Teft: Sorry you got stuck with someone like me, then. I'm...not the best example that humanity has to offer. Eshonai: Really? You have an Honorspren, though. That speaks highly of you! Teft: I- How did you know I had an Honorspren?? Eshonai: She's behind you, giving me a thumbs up. Teft: Phendorana! I said I didn't need a wingman! Eshonai: You clearly do, though.

2. Marasi & Blushweaver

Blushweaver: Oh my...you're cute. I love the buttoned-up look! Blushweaver: I can't wait to get them all undone. Blushweaver: Oh that's quite a blush! Do you like me? Marasi: W-WE HAVEN'T EVEN ORDERED FOOD YET

3. Galladon & Bleeder

Galladon: You got crazy eyes, friend. Bleeder: Yeah, I kill people a lot. And I already have a man. Galladon: Shall we eat in slightly hostile silence then? Bleeder: Works for me. Galladon: Not the worst date I've been on.

4. Lopen & Shallan

Lopen: You know, I used to have only one arm. I kinda miss it! Lopen: You know why? Shallan: Because back then, you were always all right? Lopen: ... Lopen: I LIKE you, gancho! Shallan: Thanks! I'm pretty quick on the uptake...not that there's anything wrong with being stumped of course. Lopen: I may be in love.

5. Szeth & Lightsong

Lightsong: Well you have an...intense air about you. Lightsong: What do you do for fun? Szeth: There is no fun for one such as me. Szeth: ... Szeth: I guess I talk to my sword, sometimes. Lightsong: Oh, I'm gonna need to be drunk-drunk for this one.

6. Ann & Sazed

Ann: And after I got these spectacles, I got way better at firing guns AND cannons! Ann: My crewmates no longer fear ol' Ironeyes when I line up a shot, ha ha! Sazed: ... Sazed: ... Sazed: W-What was that? Ann: Hmm? What was what? Sazed: C-Can I ask you a billion questions about your planets mythology and religions, please?

7. Demoux & TenSoon

Demoux: So...this is just a little weird, right? Demoux: I mean, we were both there, back in the day, with Kelsier and Vin and all of them. Demoux: And we both seemed to die but didn't and we're still out there, bein' in books and stuff. We have so much in common! Demoux: But it's still weird. Demoux: ...It might be because you're in your wolf body. TenSoon: Humans love dogs. Demoux: I don't think this is going to work out.

8. Cord & Parlin

Parlin: That bow...it's amazing. Cord: Thanks! It's a Shardbow. Very flashy. Cord: Yours is nice too, though. Simple, but i can tell how well made it is. And well cared for! Parlin: Thank you. I think you can tell a lot about a person by how they care for their weapons. Cord: So true! Man, can you believe we BOTH brought our bows on a first date? Parlin: Do...most people leave their weapons at home or something? Cord: Actually, yes. Parlin: Strange. Cord: I know, right?

9. Gaz & Dockson

Gaz: ...So yeah, that's how I ended up with that lady, Shallan. Now I work for her--well, when she actually has something for me to do. Dockson: I can see why my stories about Kelsier made you think of her. They both seem like charismatic, damaged people. Dockson: Heh, do you think your Shallan and my Kelsier would get along? Gaz: ...Somehow, I feel like they'd try to kill each other. Dockson: You could be right.

10. Radiant & Adolin

Radiant: Tell me all the tales of your bravery in war! Radiant: I will not ask you about pooping, even a little! Adolin: Aww, but I kinda liked it when Shallan asked me about pooping. Radiant: Yes, and after this date proves to be much more stilted, I'm sure Shallan will feel all the more secure that she is meant to be with you, poop questions and all. Adolin: So this is a date about helping ease Shallan's lingering insecurities about how our first date went? Radiant: Well, yes. Adolin: Yeah, that tracks.

[painted-fanbird]

Thinking about the Inkworld trilogy and Mistborn Era 1, and how they handled books 2 and 3 and why I like the Inkworld better lol

Why compare them? Because Inkheart was the last series I read before Mistborn, and I adored it, but more relevantly they’re formatted similarly. both trilogies have first books that function as standalones, followed by two connected sequels turning them into trilogies

The actual analysis is under the cut both because of massive spoilers for both series, and because this is long and I’m not about to be clogging up your dashboard lol

I adored The Final Empire (book 1), but Well of Ascension (book 2) and The Hero of Ages (book 3) were both major misses for me. Though I didn’t love tWoA, I did find it generally fine. tHoA on the other hand I actively dislike. Contrasted to the Inkworld trilogy, where Inkspell (book 2) is actually my favorite! With Inkdeath (book 3) as my second favorite. Inkheart (book 1) comes in third, but I still love that book. The other two just speak to me XD

Inkspell expands on the loose ends left in Inkheart very naturally, and I love that! Inkspell opens with Dustfinger returning home, which works perfectly since he just vanished into the night at the end of Inkheart with Farid. It additionally sets up Orpheus, and once we’re in the Inkworld we meet up with the rest of our loose ends! Basta and The Magpie. Additionally, Inkspell has the advantage of the Inkworld being generally unknown to us the reader. Cornelia Funke has basically free rein to do what she wants as long as she doesn’t violate the whimsical, magical vibe she’s already established in Inkheart. Which she does not, and Dustfinger’s initial return to his world is literally my favorite scene in the whole book <3

tWoA, by contrast, doesn’t really do this imo. The biggest loose ends we’re left with in TFE are allomancy as a whole, the missing atium, and low key OreSeur specifically. tWoA chooses to focus on literally none of this in depth, instead focusing on the government and the Siege of Luthadel. Which is logical, obviously rebellion take overs will have some kinks they need to iron out, but it doesn’t pay any serious mind to what TFE set up and I find that to be a let down. We get a little bit of Allomancy exploration in Duralumin, but that’s it. The atium is relevant exclusively because the invading armies think Luthadel has it, but there’s no anything about it outside of that. OreSeur is just straight up dead! Though I did love Vin and TenSoon, that was my favorite part of the whole book <3

tWoA also squanders one of the things I adored about TFE, the character dynamics. The whole crew was so fun, and it was such a delight to see interact with each other and Vin. In tWoA they’re barely even there! Dockson, Kelsier’s best friend, has literally three scenes in the entire book. He dies in the third one. Clubs? Also has like three scenes, including where he dies. Ham is marginally more present, but Spook is only in like two scenes himself. We see the most of Sazed, which is cool because I like him <3 Instead of focusing on the crew, tWoA introduces new characters! Which are… hit or miss. Tindwyl and TenSoon and Allrianne my beloved <3 Then there’s Zane. Whom I can only describe as a Gary Stu and frankly I want to pick Sanderson’s brain and find out what the hell he was thinking when he made Zane because by all accounts he makes no sense lol

Inkspell and Inkdeath however, introduce new side characters without usurping the focus on the main cast. This is admittedly helped by Inkheart having a smaller cast in general XD But Dustfinger, Mo, Farid, Fenoglio, Resa, and Meggie if you squint (her squandered potential is another post lol) all remain major players, and continue to interact with each other like the did in book one. It’s great <3

tHoA is where things get particularly dicey for me lol. In tone and in plot. I just found it to be depressing, boring, and I do not like Ruin and Preservation. I don’t generally enjoy plots on a cosmic, god fighting scale to begin with, and I actively hate twist, “it was him all along!” villains. I find them to be boring, and feel that they remove agency from the villains prior to them. Also, I think they were set up poorly. If you removed them from the plot, literally nothing changes with TFE, and very little would change in tWoA. Not ideal for a villain you’re about to claim was here the whole time.

This book also continues the trend of no one talking to each other by scattering our protagonists to the four winds! Vin literally only talks to Elend, and maybe Ham once this book. Spook is in Urteau with Sazed, Breeze, and Allrianne, and his message never makes it to her. They literally don’t talk once and that’s a damn shame considering what they could have had. Tonally it’s just death and distraction all the way through, and that’s just,, blegh. No thanks.

Also everyone is so grim faced and boring, I hate this version of Elend, there’s no sass, no bite to him anymore. Just a grim and dutiful general who insists he’s struggles with doing hard things but then does them anyway. I also hate that his character arc goes unfulfilled! My man spends the entire book being worried about his inability to keep people safe, then he gets beheaded after watching an entire squad of soldiers get slaughtered by koloss. Like sure he saved the world but uhhhh yeah that’s not a satisfying conclusion. (Elend as a character was actually just generally not utilized well by the narrative imo. Raise your hand if you remember that this man was forced to sleep with a skaa girl at 13 years old she avoided romance because of it!)

Vin is also kind of boring, which is deeply upsetting because she was a fav in TFE and tWoA. She’s just so,, grim. And nothing else. It sucks. Also I don’t think her arc was done well here either. I love the idea of her finally coming to terms with the two parts of herself, but it felt forced! Vin spends basically no time as Valette after book 1, so it feels dragged out. We did not have to wait to book 3 to resolve this, we could’ve sorted this our way earlier lol

Also the whole thing with Sazed and the prophecy is just,, wut? I’m not a fan of the implication that Sazed is less of a man because he’s been castrated, and since I just generally don’t like Ruin and Preservation in general turning Sazed into god is just not where it’s at for me. It felt bizarre and out of place tbh

Inkdeath, on the other hand, does not have these issues. It’s villain, The Adderhead, was firmly established and was also the primary villain of book 2. He is not a god. He’s a king who was seeking immortality and was kind of foiled. A man, at his core lol. Tonally it is pretty grim at the beginning, but when Dustfinger is brought back, about 1/3 of the way through, the plot takes a notable hopeful upswing. Things aren’t easy, but they’re looking better now <3

I’ll also be the first to admit that Inkdeath’s clear cut happy ending is my preferred story ending lol, which is absolutely major points in its favor XD

I also think Inkdeath handles its characters well. Meggie and Farid do kind of end up on the side, but Mo, Dustfinger, and Resa all really shine. This opinion is helped by the fact that Mo and Dustfinger are my favorites, but I think it holds merit outside of that. They’ve been primary characters since book 1, are continuing to participate in the main plot together, and I find their arcs to be constant and wrapped up very nicely <3

TL;DR: I think tWoA and tHoA squandered their potential by introducing new plot threads instead of focusing on established loose ends, and committing several character assassinations by book 3. Inkspell and Inkheart did not do this, they followed up on their loose ends directly, kept the focus on the characters introduced in book 1, and did not go suddenly off the rails in the climax, instead ending with my preferred traditional fairy tale ending <3

[lesbianshanventure]

Wild mistborn/cosmere rambles ahead. Long post. Big spoilers for all cosmere. Read at your own risk.

[Image transcript:

Kingsdaughter613 Primary question: Peter recently said something about atium in Era 1 actually being an atium-electrum alloy, which is called nalatium. Is this accurate?

Brandon Sanderson This is accurate, yes. You could, by the way, just continue to call it atium. That's what they think atium is in-world. It's very slightly tainted.

Kingsdaughter613 Secondary questions: If the above is yes, did Kelsier get malatium by separating the atium and gold from the silver in nalatium? If so, do atium and gold have similar melting points?

Brandon Sanderson That's more of a RAFO in that I'm not sure I want to canonize any of that right now.

Footnote: Peter's comment did not give the alloy a name, Adam misread the sentence where the questioner provided their own name for it. YouTube Spoiler Stream 3 (Dec. 16, 2021)

End transcript.]

And here is Peter’s comment, mentioned in the footnote.

[Image transcription: 

Xais56 Brandon has said that everyone ought to be able to burn Atium, like they can all burn Lerasium, and the fact that they can't was an oversight on his part that he would've done different in hindsight. Maybe now he's had an in-universe reason to re-write the laws of allomancy it's back to his intended concept; Mistborn burn all 16 base metals, mistings burn one base metal, non-allomancers can only burn godmetal.

Peter Ahlstrom My explanation for this is that Preservation somehow caused all naturally occurring atium to form as an alloy of atium and electrum. The atium Mistings were actually electrum Mistings.

Xais56 It's a very tidy solution, but it creates the maddening question of what does pure atium do?

Peter Ahlstrom That answer has already been revealed canonically. RAFO.

Footnote: Brandon later confirmed that this is indeed the case. General Reddit 2021 (Nov. 2, 2021)                    

End transcription]

Ramblings Begin

Fascinating new WOB. So “Atium”, as we’ve seen it, is actually an atium/electrum alloy??? I didn’t expect that honestly, which I really could have cause Atium has honestly always been a bit weird. It seemed way too weak, given that it is a god metal, and the fact that not everyone could burn it did seem rather odd, since we know anyone and everyone can burn lerasium. And the hemalurgy table does say that Atium can steal any power but that it “must be refined”, so this does all check out. This is probably still a retcon and not the original plan, but if so it’s a retcon that seems to have been in the works for a while.

(Side note: If you don’t need to be an allomancer to burn atium or lerasium, is there any reason you need to be for any other godmetal? Can anyone anywhere in the cosmere swallow some godmetal and burn it as long as they have Intent? That is how it works with Hemalurgy. Hmmm. I’d love to see someone in stormlight try this now that we’ve had Raysium introduced. Plus, there is that chunk of an honorblade sitting around uselessly in some field lol, as someone mentioned in another question in that spoilerstream.)

So that of course begs the question of what does pure Atium do? Peter says that this has been not just revealed, but canonized (ie, in one of the books) so based on that I’m guessing this is about Elend’s vision at the end of Hero of Ages. Cause that did seem like more than just a more powerful version of normal Atium.

So what about all the other Atium alloys? What do they do?? And only a person who can burn Metal A can burn a godmetal alloy of Metal A? Is that true for all godmetals? I think it’s been implied that a Lerasium/metal alloy makes you a misting of that metal so that’s... quite useless lol. Even more useless than it already was, since you had lerasium on hand and are using it to turn yourself into a misting instead of a mistborn.

And all “Atium mistborn” are actually electrum mistborn? Do people in world know this? Probably not right? Cause there’s not any atium left to test out anything on.

Okay, and what about Feruchemy? Based on what Sazed said, it seems like it was relatively common knowledge among the Keepers that Atium is rather useless for feruchemy, it just stores age, but they would have been experimenting with the Electrum!Atium presumably so we actually have no idea what its feruchemical properties are. I’d assume that if an Electrum ferring god their hands on Electrum!Atium, they could store in it but no other ferrings could, just like with allomancy. So storing age is a function of Electrum!Atium not pure atium. (And maybe that’s why preservation did this whole thing. So that the lord ruler could make himself immortal. That would make a lot of sense.) So what does pure atium do feruchemically? I have no idea!!! We don’t know that with lerasium either I don’t think. Or harmonium. God I want to know so much more about godmetals.

But we *do* know what pure atium does in hemalurgy, if my interpretation is correct. Cause as I mentioned earlier, the hemalurgy table says that Atium “requires refinement” to be able to steal any power, so I assume they’re actually working with pure atium. But *why* did the inquisitors think to refine it for hemalurgy, but not for allomancy or feruchemy? or did they, and it’s just us that don’t know what it does in those systems and they do. The question still stands though, why did they think to refine it? Did they not get any effect from Electrum!Atium? Why not? That’s really odd. Or if they did, how did they know that Atium is impure? Did the lord ruler know from when he ascended? I mean I guess that would make sense, and it also makes sense that he wouldn’t share that knowledge with the Nobles cause he did hoard all kinds of information and he benefits from keeping things the way they are. We still don’t know what Electrum!Atium does hemalurgically though, which is interesting.

And now onto the elephant in the room: Marsh. He’s still kicking around with a bag full of Electrum!Atium, and the ability to both store in it and to burn it. Do we know anything about the spikes for it? Assuming it’s actually just a spike for electrum power, the one for Allomantic!Electrum should be Cadmium and the one for Feruchemical!Electrum should be gold. They didn’t have Cadmium back then though, so probably it’s an Atium (pure atium) spike, since that can steal any power. His feruchemical one could be too. Has he done any work with pure atium? He seems to be working under Sazed’s command at this point, so probably if he *has* done anything with it it would be cause Sazed wanted him to. (And sazed probably already knows what it does)

In conclusion: aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

So there are two things I want to ask brandon that I think have a chance of being answered:

can any (non-alloy) godmetal be burned by anyone who has Intent?

What does Electrum!Atium do hemalurgically, and why isn’t that on the hemalurgy table?

Feel free to add on with your own rampant speculation, I’d love to hear it!!!!

[sosei]

Commentaries on the Epigraphs of Rhythm of War - Part 2

The second set of epigraphs are a letter from an individual I shall call “Discord” here in the non-spoiler section. The letter is almost certainly addressed to Hoid and contains some of this wider implications for the cosmere I mentioned in part 1.

I will not be avoiding spoilers for RoW, or any other cosmere works published as of December 2020.

"Dear Wanderer, I did receive your latest communication. Please forgive formality on my part, as we have not met in person. I feel new to this role, despite my years holding it. You will admit to my relative youth, I think."

We start off by virtually telling the reader who is writing from not just the information contained in these few sentences, but how they are phrased. The big giveaways are:

The writer’s relative youth in their role (as a divinity, which we know from the rest of the letter’s contents)

The “I think” at the end of the sentence, which is part of how the character in question expresses themselves.

It is clear that this letter is from Sazed, a major character in the Mistborn series who ascended to godhood after the events of the first trilogy. They also appeared in some Oathbringer’s epigraphs. This is after the first trilogy, but before the era 2 books in the Mistborn series. When I said this book was going in hard on the Mistborn stuff, I wasn’t kidding.

An interesting bit is that I am pretty certain Sazed has met Hoid, as he helped the surviving terrispeople move to the central dominance in The Well of Ascension. I know he was in disguise at the time, so either they or I am mistaken. Either way its not that big of a deal.

"I have been fascinated to discover how much you’ve accomplished on Scadrial without me noticing your presence. How is it that you hide from Shards so well?"

"I have reached out to the others as you requested, and have received a variety of responses."

"Much as you indicate, there is a division among the other Shards I would not have anticipated."

The other gods of the cosmere are very scattered, both physically and otherwise. We’ve guessed this, but its good to have confirmation.

"Endowment at least responded to my overtures, though I have not been able to locate Invention again following our initial contact."

Endowment is the Shard making their home on Nalthis, the world on which Warbreaker takes place. They seem alright so I understand their responding. Invention however, has not been mentioned before.

"Whimsy was not terribly useful, and Mercy worries me. I do think that Valor is reasonable, and suggest you approach her again. It has been too long, in her estimation, since your last conversation."

All three Shards mentioned here are new. Sazed’s opinion on Mercy is interesting and I look forward to seeing what that implies later. Valor is likely going to be an important figure later, so looking forward to seeing her!

"The deaths of both Devotion and Dominion trouble me greatly, as I had not realized this immense power we held was something that could be broken in such a way. On my world, the power always gathered and sought a new Vessel."

Dominion and Devotion, as well as their deaths, have been brought up before in previous Stormlight books. Their deaths are what caused the cataclysm leading into the events of Elantris.

"That said, the most worrying thing I discovered in this was the wound upon the Spiritual Realm where Ambition, Mercy, and Odium clashed—and Ambition was destroyed. The effects on the planet Threnody have been … disturbing."

There is one published short story on Threnody, and oh boy do I agree with Sazed’s assessment there.

"Other Shards I cannot identify, and are hidden to me. I fear that their influence encroaches upon my world, yet I am locked into a strange inability because of the opposed powers I hold."

This likely refers to the mysterious “Trell” that becomes important in the Era 2 books. Whom I (and other) strongly suspect is Autonomy, though revelations in this book has lead me to suspect Odium’s involvement as well. If less directly.

"I have begun searching for a pathway out of this conundrum by seeking the ideal person to act on my behalf. Someone who embodies both Preservation and Ruin. A … sword, you might say, who can both protect and kill."

If there was any doubt who is writing this, it has disappeared now. I’ve spoken before on how Sazed’s choosing of the name “Harmony” may have been a touch too aspirational, which paired with the Terris Prophecies naming them “Discord” has lead to me calling him that instead.

The implication of these words here, when paired with the events of era 2, leads me to believe they are attempting to mold Wax into someone who can act on other worlds for him. Either though making him their champion, their avatar or even a more suited vessel for the Shard’s conflicting intent.

"But this does not get to the core of your letter. I have encouraged those who would speak to me to heed your warnings, but all seem content to ignore Odium for the time being. In their opinion, he is no threat as long as he remains confined in the Rosharan system."

"I do not share their attitude. If you can, as you suppose, maintain Odium’s prison for now, it would give us necessary time to plan. This is a threat beyond the capacity of one Shard to face."

The other Shards’ lack of interest in dealing with the situation is concerning. If understandable, given that Odium has killed several other Shards already.

"Unfortunately, as proven by my own situation, the combination of Shards is not always a path to greater power."

Again, hammering in on Preservation and Ruin’s conflicting intents, and the likely part of the reason Odium didn’t take his fallen enemies’ shards for himself. Though interestingly, in Preservation and Ruin’s case, they needed to work together to create. And as Harmony, Discord, whatever you want to call them, Sazed has access to that power of creation.

"We must assume that Odium has realized this, and is seeking a singular, terrible goal: the destruction—and somehow Splintering or otherwise making impotent—of all Shards other than him."

"To combine powers would change and distort who Odium is. So instead of absorbing others, he destroys them. Since we are all essentially infinite, he needs no more power. Destroying and Splintering the other Shards would leave Odium as the sole god, unchanged and uncorrupted by other influences."

Basically confirming what I said above about Odium.

"You say that the power itself must be treated as separate in our minds from the Vessel who controls it."

"I find this difficult to do on an intrinsic level, as although I am neither Ruin nor Preservation, they make up me."

While this is true to an extent, you can say the same of any dichotomy. But I suppose Sazed’s mortal life as a scholar of Scadrian religions, a lot of which involve pantheons of two opposite gods, influences his worldview here.

"Regardless, I will try to do as you suggest. However, you seem more afraid of the Vessel. I warn you that this is a flaw in your understanding."

Hoid knew Rayse before he took up Odium, and did not have a high opinion of the man before he merged with God’s Divine Wrath. I doubt becoming concentrated divine malice has improved his attitude.

"You have not felt what I have. You have not known what I have. You rejected that chance—and wisely, I think."

Nothing like attaining divinity to realize that you probably shouldn’t want to attain divinity.

"However, though you think not as a mortal, you are their kin. The power of Odium’s Shard is more dangerous than the mind behind it. Particularly since any Investiture seems to gain a will of its own when not controlled."

Hm, this is setup for what happens towards the end of the book isn’t it? As well as a mention of high concentrations of investiture attaining sentience. Like spren, or Nightblood.

"My instincts say that the power of Odium is not being controlled well. The Vessel will be adapted to the power’s will. And after this long, if Odium is still seeking to destroy, then it is because of the power."

Yeah, definitely setup. Later appearances of Odium in this book shows Rayse falling apart after his personal plans failing.

"Of course, I admit this is a small quibble. A difference of semantics more than anything."

Ever diplomatic, ey Saze?

"In truth, it would be a combination of a Vessel’s craftiness and the power’s Intent that we should fear most."

<sweats in Taravangian>

"Regardless, please make yourself known to me when you travel my lands. It is distressing that you think you need to move in the shadows."

I am like, 85% sure he hides bc Kell would find him and kick his ass if he didn’t. The remaining 15% is knowing what other Shards would do if they learned he was on their worlds.

[lizziestudieshistory]

Books of 2020 - May

My reading is going insane thanks to the pandemic... I might need to start writing reviews as I finish the books instead of waiting for the end of the month! As usual I haven’t proof read this

The Long Way to a Small Angry Planet - Becky Chambers (Wayfarers)

This was a pleasantly enjoyable read for me! I usually don’t like science fiction, particularly heavily science based scifi, because (to be brutally honest) science and space bores me... However, I’d heard SO MANY good things about the characters in this novel that I had to see what the fuss was about. It’s worth the praise! The character work, inclusivity and diversity was wonderful to read. It was a beautiful novel to read and just explore who each member of this misfit crew are as they journey through space.

The sudden apperance of plot in the last 25% ruined the book a little bit, it wasn’t necessary when the rest of the book was all about character exploration. It felt like it was there just to set up the sequel (which I probably won’t read...) The problem I had with the sudden explosion of plot was the book in theme and character centred narrative (not setting or writing) felt more like a 20th century novel than a modern scifi. Everything is about the people on this ship and their found family, and each persons place in their respective societies and cultures. The action right at the end felt out of place and disrupted the love affair I’d had with the rest of the character work from Chambers. Nevertheless, I did really like this novel and would highly recommed it, particularly to people who don’t typically read science fiction.

Words of Radiance (volumes one and two*) - Brandon Sanderson (Stormlight Archive #2)

We all know how I feel about Sanderson and the Stormlight Archive, I don’t think I need to rehash that here. However, this is my least favourite of the three novels out so far - I just really dislike Shallan... (Sorry)

I’d still recommend it but start the series with The Way of Kings!

*I’m still bitter I had to pay for this book twice (it was only available in the split UK edition when I bought it) so I always count this as two books in my book count each year. 

Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow - Jessica Townsend (Nevermoor #1)

I ADORED this book! I was skeptical about it because I haven’t read any modern childrens fiction outside of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson since I was a child. However, this book was stunning. It was fun, fast paced romp that captures a similar feeling that Harry Potter did when I was little. Morrigan is a delightful protagonist and the world Townsend created is spectacular!

I don’t want to say too much about it because I went into it pretty blind and I think it was the best way to do it. But if there is one book eveyone should read as a pick me up then this is it! I was blown away by the quality of Townsend’s world building, plot, characters, and writing style - seriously good stuff here!

Witches Abroad - Terry Pratchett (Discworld #12; The Witches #2)

I didn’t love this book as much as I was hoping to and I’m not really sure why? It’s Pratchett’s take on fariytales and he retells several well known fairytales with the typical no nonsense approach we can expect from Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg, and Magrat Garlick. I actually really liked the set pieces of the book where Pratchett retold stories like Little Red Riding Hood and The Wizard of Oz, or pulled from iconic imagery such as the dwarves from Snow White and traditional vampires. 

Yet, the main story (pulling from the Snow Queen and Cinderella) fell a bit flat for me. I didn’t really connect with the over arching story, which was disapointing after I’d loved Wyrd Sisters. I don’t really know what happened here - it could have been my mood or the book I’m not sure.

The Hero of Ages - Brandon Sanderson (Mistborn Era One #3)

I cried. Twice. I can’t say much more. Go and read Mistborn if you want to know why!

I do prefer The Stormlight Archive over Mistborn as a whole but the conclusion to this series is incredibly powerful. I have some major bones to pick with the series (Spook’s conclucion made me MAD which was not good as it was the last scene of the book...) but the overall quality of the series is amazing.

I do think the hype around the series ruined my enjoyment a bit - I was spoilt for the conclusion and for the majority of The Final Empire and part of Well of Ascension I was thinking ‘is this it...’ However, it is an outstanding series from modern fantasy. 

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrects - J.K. Rowling (Harry Potter #1&2)

Do I need to talk about Harry Potter? It’s a childhood classic, I grew up with this and no matter how old I get this is going to make me feel like a kid again. I’m  doing a full Potter reread this year to cheer myself up and to remind myself why I loved these books so much after all the crap that’s gone down with Rowling recently.

Towers of Midnight - Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson (Wheel of Time #13)

I really can’t talk about this book in a spoiler free way and if I turned this into a spoiler review this post would be ridiculously long... However, the core of my feelings on this is:

I enjoyed this, Mat’s character still reads in a strange way, and the END IS NIGH.

Read the Wheel of Time!

Defy or Defend - Gail Carriger (Delightfully Deadly #2)

I was eagerly awaiting this book and it did not disappoint. Carriger’s books are always comfort reads for me and now I’m caught up with her series I can read new releases IN REAL TIME which is amazing!

I was eagerly awaiting for Dimity’s book in the Delightfully Deadly series and I fangirled my way through this novel (Dimity was my favourite of the Finishing School girls.) Seeing her makeover a vampire hive, tackle the gothic behaviour of the vampires themselves, while establishing a relationship with Sir Crispin was wonderful. This was everything I had been hoping for from Dimity and Carriger and now I’ll have to wait for the next installment.

Great Expectations - Charles Dickens

I feel like the only person on the planet who didn’t like this book... Dickens is a hit or miss author and his books that I know the plot of through cultural osmosis don’t really work for me. I already knew the major mysteries of the novel (Pip’s benefactor, Miss Havisham’s past, and Estella’s origins) leaving very little for me to sink my teeth into. I do think this would be an excellent entry point if you want to get into Dickens, it just didn’t work for me.

Currently Reading

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban - J.K Rowling

I actually finished this book earlier but I technically read it in June so I’ll take about it at the end of the month.

Wundersmith: The Calling of Morrigan Crow - Jessica Townsend

I’m about 200 pages in and I think I love it more than the first book

A Memory of Light - Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson

THE END IS HERE and damn is it intense!

[radiantmists]

rhythm of war part two thoughts

aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa  (spoilers through the second interludes under the cut, and at the very bottom some comments based on what i have to assume is a major spoiler for the entire book, or close to it, though i'm warning again beforehand.)

well, last things first: taravangian's working against odium! i'm super excited about this, and very happy about the support for the concept that Taravangian's compassion isn't his curse, it's just the division of his intelligence and compassion that's sthe problem.

so we've been able to talk to the sibling, who is mostly trying to help despite genuinely feeling that what navani is doing is wrong. except now they're locked away, and navani is under the direct scrutiny of rabaniel and messing around with her is going to be risky. that being said, we're on our way to some very interesting revelations about how investiture works on roshar:

the stormfather is purely of honor. the sibling is a mix of honor and cultivation. the nightwatcher is purely cultivation

the sibling should not be able to function on pure stormlight, because it's purely of honor.

lift may not run on stormlight at all-- we already knew she can't pull it from spheres.

adhesion, which is somehow a fake surge and purely of honor, is not totally cancelled by whatever rabaniel did to the sibling. from lift's interlude, neither is regrowth when she uses it, which if i had to pick is the surge i would choose to be purely of cultivation.

as far as we can tell, people can still draw in stormlight with no issue, they just cant use it to power surges.

windrunners, who bond honorspren, are less affected by the fabrial: this applies especially to kaladin and syl, and we know syl is different from other honorspren, older. my money is that she's in some way more fully of honor than the others. lift, who's been hugely modified by cultivation directly, is also immune. the edgedancers as a whole are not immune and apparently are reacting as badly as anyone else.

...syl notes in the last set of interludes that she's different from other honorspren, mentally. is this a byproduct of whatever she did to sneak out of shadesmar, or of her being older? interesting.

To me, this all implies that whatever rabaniel did interferes with how cultivation and honor interact. lift, who seemingly only uses cultivation's investiture, can power the surge that seems most directly associated with cultivation; kaladin, probably closest to honor, can do the surge that seems to be entirely honor. the regular edgedancers aren't immune at all because they run on stormlight; the windrunners are somewhat but not fully immune because they're almost fully of honor, but cultivation likely had some hand in the way honorspren were made after the shattering.

Regrowth really is a very odd surge, compared to the others, which seem to deal with much more fundamental physical forces.

the fused do have access to regrowth while powered by voidlight, though. interesting.

speaking of: did navani's weird sphere contain some kind of... cultivationlight? or maybe it's some kind of combination, and that's why the sphere exploded right around the time of rabiniel's experiments (or the sibling was drawing on it somehow?)

on a more immediate level, the current tower resistance is as follows: navani, under constant monitoring but she has the best chance to figure out how to fix this shit. kaladin, who's a mess, being hunted by the pursuer, and who's about to start getting suicide-baiting nightmares from odium, but he does know how to fight! lift, who's amazing and knows how to sneak around the tower but is being hunted by someone who i assume has to be mraize. and rlain, masquerading as a singer (im so worried about him i hope he's okay).

if this somehow ends with kaladin killing mraize to protect lift before he can give shallan answers, i'm going to fucking SCREAM.

speaking of frustrating things: lirin turn on ur location i just wanna talk. Kaladin was actually rebuilding himself until this whole invasion thing, and i don't understand how lirin can look at a man who's that committed to doing good, sees exactly what it is that drives him to kill, and then calls him a monster.

I loved Kaladin's efforts to deal with mental health care! He's in the unique position ofhaving way more political power than any medical professional, darkeyes, or mentally ill person could ever have hoped to have, and I really want to see him come back to this once the world is burning down a bit less again, especially because it genuinely seemed to be helping him.

navani's plots have sorta been subsumed into this whole plotline, but i enjoyed what we got-- the little episode with the other scholars taking bets on whether she'd use tomor's fabrial was adorable, and i also liked how clear it is that they look to her to make things work.

moving on, uh... shadesmar stuff.

adolin's making some progress at waking maya! she doesn't talk but she shows a clearly unusual ability to learn and make independent decisions. i love it.

...also the thing with notum's horse implies that ryshadium are sentient enough to imagine spren. that's fun, and also terrifying.

adolin offering to stand trial for the crimes of humanity is fascinating, but all i'm thinking about is the episode of avatar where he agrees to stand trial for kyoshi, except in this case we already know that humanity did actually do the thing he's in trouble for. it would be unjust to punish adolin for it, but... i worry.

especially because there are, apparently, new deadeyes. this isn't extraordinarily surprising as syl was two skips away from death (though, im curious, does it work differently if the spren's never been a blade prior to dying? or are there just deadeyes wandering around who aren't tied to blades?) but it is very alarming.

and then there's the other thing: pattern is lying to shallan. i frankly don't think it's as simple as him being a spy for the ghostbloods; we saw even here that he's a terrible liar, and to have concealed this he'd have to have been pretty impressive.

on the other hand there was clearly some shit going on between shallan, her family, and the ghostbloods when she first got pattern. he's admitted that he has more exposure to humans than most spren. it doesn't look great, honestly.

i also appreciate that brandon is acknowledging how fucking weird shallan's timeline is. hopefully we get some answers about this.

adolin and shallan's relationship continues to be adorable; the sequence with the starspren is lovely and i totally get why it's brandon's favorite chapter in this part. between this and part one, he clearly enjoyed how the shadolin came out in this book and i agree. the fact that his romances continue after the marriage, with issues beyond just jealousy, is one of my favorite things about sanderson books.

venli's whole set of pov's this part was about walking up to urithiru. i really do want to like her, but she spends a ton of time just following more dynamic characters around and observing in these first two parts, and if not for the juicy secrets rabaniel's been dropping, it would make me just want to get back to other characters. hopefully that'll change in the next few parts.

i was going to make a comment about how we havent even had flashbacks yet, but i just glanced at the POVs for the next part, so I guess those are coming. I do wonder if these eshonai flashbacks will be info venli knows, or what.

she did kill someone for the first time, and attuned the rhythm of the lost for the dead man. the whole incident disturbs her, and i appreciated that as the rest of our viewpoint characters are extremely accustomed to death. i'm interested in seeing how this affects her going forward.

the epigraphs are so exciting! sazed is writing to hoid again, but this time he's gotten his bearings and spoken to some new shards... ones we haven't heard from before! also he asks hoid to say hi when he's on scadrial, which, fair enough tbh. i dont remember whether hoid shows up much in mistborn era 2 but for some reason i have the feeling he is not going to oblige this request.

the epigraph where sazed mentions he wants someone who can both preserve and kill immediately made me think of kaladin. (i think this is what he ends up trying to do with wax, but shhhh) he and sazed would agree on a lot of things philosophically, i think. (omg au where kaladin ends up working for sazed?? i have no idea how this would work the idea just fascinates me.

...where are the heralds? did dalinar take them with him, or are they in the tower? if the latter, are they also passed out? probably not, since they're not radiants, right? although whatever they are is very investiture-dependent so who knows. vasher's probably alright.

why is odium afraid of nightblood? is he worried it could eat him?

lots of POVs for the next part, but no shadesmar crew, so i guess we'll find out whether adolin gets executed by honorspren later. i do wonder why so many pov's from the battlefront; i guess something more is going to happen along those lines than i'd really expected. crossed fingers for some actual insight into renarin, finally.

in light of said spoiler: holy god i hope that division (between taravangian's intelligence and compassion) doesn't continue, though I have the horrible feeling that it will. This puts sazed's discussion of the intent of a shard combined with the cleverness of its vessel into a terrifying light: a godlike being who is at his smartest when he's a complete sociopath is like, the worst case scenario,  not even taking into account that the odium shard is uniquely suited to make people act on impulses. this is so bad.

but i can't know the full extent of that until i read the context, so let's move on!

[addictedforbooksquad]

P I C K (S)  O F  T H E  M O N T H: M A Y

The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite

Passion on Park Avenue by Lauren Layne

Mistborn: The Alloy Era Series by Brandon Sanderson

Mistborn: Secret History by Brandon Sanderson

Marriage for One by Ella Maise

A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite

Genres: Historical Romance, LGBT, F/F romance

Synopsis:

As Lucy Muchelney watches her ex-lover’s sham of a wedding, she wishes herself anywhere else. It isn’t until she finds a letter from the Countess of Moth, looking for someone to translate a groundbreaking French astronomy text, that she knows where to go. Showing up at the Countess’ London home, she hoped to find a challenge, not a woman who takes her breath away. Catherine St Day looks forward to a quiet widowhood once her late husband’s scientific legacy is fulfilled. She expected to hand off the translation and wash her hands of the project—instead, she is intrigued by the young woman who turns up at her door, begging to be allowed to do the work, and she agrees to let Lucy stay. But as Catherine finds herself longing for Lucy, everything she believes about herself and her life is tested. While Lucy spends her days interpreting the complicated French text, she spends her nights falling in love with the alluring Catherine. But sabotage and old wounds threaten to sever the threads that bind them. Can Lucy and Catherine find the strength to stay together or are they doomed to be star-crossed lovers?

Why we love it:

a beautiful love story between two women

female friendships and women supporting women

characters who find out about Lucy and Catherine are not homophobic but rather supportive

focus on both romance AND personal journeys of the characters

sexism and misogyny are challenged, by both female and male characters (some of them at least)

beautiful, poetic passages

Trigger warnings: mentions of emotional abuse, sexism, misogyny

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Passion on Park Avenue by Lauren Layne

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, New Adult

Synopsis:

For as long as she can remember, Bronx-born Naomi Powell has had one goal: to prove her worth among the Upper East Side elite—the same people for which her mom worked as a housekeeper. Now, as the strongminded, sassy CEO of one of the biggest jewelry empires in the country, Naomi finally has exactly what she wants—but it’s going to take more than just the right address to make Manhattan’s upper class stop treating her like an outsider. The worst offender is her new neighbor, Oliver Cunningham—the grown son of the very family Naomi’s mother used to work for. Oliver used to torment Naomi when they were children, and as a ridiculously attractive adult, he’s tormenting her in entirely different ways. Now they find themselves engaged in a battle-of-wills that will either consume or destroy them… Filled with charm and heart and plenty of sex and snark, this entertaining series will hook you from the very first page.

Why we love it:

ambitious millionaire female character whose story is basically about rags to riches

soft male character

female friendships and dynamics are amazing

cute love story

Lauren Layne’s style has improved so much and it’s time to start reading her books

Trigger warnings: n/a

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Mistborn: The Alloy Era series by Brandon Sanderson

Genres: Fantasy, High Fantasy, Adult

Synopsis:

Three hundred years after the events of the Mistborn trilogy, Scadrial is now on the verge of modernity, with railroads to supplement the canals, electric lighting in the streets and the homes of the wealthy, and the first steel-framed skyscrapers racing for the clouds. Kelsier, Vin, Elend, Sazed, Spook, and the rest are now part of history—or religion. Yet even as science and technology are reaching new heights, the old 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 the brave men and women attempting to establish order and justice. One such 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 has been forced by family tragedy to return to the metropolis of Elendel. Now he must reluctantly put away his guns and assume the duties and dignity incumbent upon the head of a noble house. Or so he thinks, 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. 

Why we love it:

amazing writing

plots and twists all around

we see familiar faces from the first trilogy *wink wink*

SO. MUCH. FUN.

western-sherlock-fantasy

most adorable character ever, that's on the spectrum

Trigger warnings: violence

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Mistborn: Secret History by Brandon Sanderson

Genres: Fantasy, High Fantasy, Adult

Synopsis:

Mistborn: Secret History is a companion story to the original Mistborn trilogy. As such, it contains HUGE SPOILERS for the books Mistborn (The Final Empire), The Well of Ascension, and The Hero of Ages. It also contains very minor spoilers for the book The Bands of Mourning. Mistborn: Secret History builds upon the characterization, events, and worldbuilding of the original trilogy. Reading it without that background will be a confusing process at best. In short, this isn’t the place to start your journey into Mistborn. (Though if you have read the trilogy—but it has been a while—you should be just fine, so long as you remember the characters and the general plot of the books.) Saying anything more here risks revealing too much. Even knowledge of this story’s existence is, in a way, a spoiler. There’s always another secret.  

Why we love it:

view on Mistborn Era 1 events from different perspective

reunions that will make you cry

we get SOME answers as well from Mistborn Era 1 and 2

Trigger warnings: violence

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Marriage for One by Ella Maise

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, New Adult

Synopsis:

Jack and I, we did everything backward. The day he lured me into his office-which was also the first day we met-he proposed. You'd think a guy who looked like him-a bit cold maybe, but still striking and very unattainable-would only ask the love of his life to marry him, right? You'd think he must be madly in love. Nope. It was me he asked. A complete stranger who had never even heard of him. A stranger who had been dumped by her fiancé only weeks before. You'd think I'd laugh in his face, call him insane-and a few other names-then walk away as quickly as possible. Well…I did all those things except the walking away part. It took him only minutes to talk me into a business deal…erm, I mean marriage, and only days for us to officially tie the knot. Happiest day of my life. Magical. Pop the champagne… Not. It was the worst day. Jack Hawthorne was nothing like what I'd imagined for myself. I blamed him for my lapse in judgment. I blamed his eyes, the ocean blue eyes that looked straight into mine unapologetically, and that frown on his face I had no idea I would become so fascinated with in time. It wasn't long after he said I was the biggest mistake of his life that things started to change. No, he still didn't talk much, but anyone can string a few words together. His actions spoke the loudest to me. And day after day my heart started to get a mind of its own. One second he was no one. The next he became everything. One second he was unattainable. The next he seemed to be completely mine. One second I thought we were in love. The next it was still nothing but a lie. After all, I was Rose and he was Jack. We were doomed from the very beginning with those names. Did you expect anything else?

Why we love it:

soft and bubbly female character

broody male character

fake marriage trope

slowburn + cutest romance with a lil’ bit of angst

development is A+++

Trigger warnings: n/a

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A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

Genres: Fantasy, High Fantasy, Adult

Synopsis:

Long ago, in a time forgotten, a preternatural event threw the seasons out of balance. In a land where summers can last decades and winters a lifetime, trouble is brewing. The cold is returning, and in the frozen wastes to the north of Winterfell, sinister and supernatural forces are massing beyond the kingdom’s protective Wall. At the center of the conflict lie the Starks of Winterfell, a family as harsh and unyielding as the land they were born to. Sweeping from a land of brutal cold to a distant summertime kingdom of epicurean plenty, here is a tale of lords and ladies, soldiers and sorcerers, assassins and bastards, who come together in a time of grim omens. Here an enigmatic band of warriors bear swords of no human metal; a tribe of fierce wildlings carry men off into madness; a cruel young dragon prince barters his sister to win back his throne; and a determined woman undertakes the most treacherous of journeys. Amid plots and counterplots, tragedy and betrayal, victory and terror, the fate of the Starks, their allies, and their enemies hangs perilously in the balance, as each endeavors to win that deadliest of conflicts: the game of thrones.

Why we love it:

high fantasy political drama 

well-written dialogue

if you’re already a fan of the TV show, the book gives you an even more detailed account of events with characters POVs while these key moments play out

amazing world building and backstory with so much thought and detail

GRRM has successfully achieved a whole new universe

full of backstabbing, bloody battles and political intrigue

multiple POVs

Trigger warnings: rape, sexual abuse of a minor, graphic violence, sexual violence, incest, misogyny

[thechuckman]

Answers (Hopefully, I did finish RoW not long after it came out so details might be fuzzy)

We know Jasnah has swarn the 4th ideal, it was mentioned by the Fused at some point, I can't quite remember where/when. So her shard plate is made of spren too, we don't know what kind of spren afaik but there might be a WoB on it.

I could be reading it wrong being Ace myself but I read it as she likes his company, and he's intriguing and holds conversation well, but she's not too keen of the physical aspects of their relationship. I felt it was they weren't intimate yet, Wit would like for it to be but Jasnah isn't necessarily even inclined that way. (Yay for representation, hopefully)

I dont believe Shallan has told Adolin yet, I feel like that is a scene we would see, and she's only just coming to grips with it, she might not be ready to share with him just yet

All stories are set on different planets, which makes time lines etc kinda wibbly wobbly. Chronological time line wise its Warbreaker, Mistborn era 1, Stormlight (Zahel is *very* old in Stormlight)

Cosmere is the blanket term for the universe correct, Investiture can be the term for the magic systems on each planet, but its actually also something else, still related to the magic. Potential spoilers there.

I can only comment on mistborn Era 1 as I'm yet to read 2 but Ghostbloods aren't mentioned in the series. From other online discussions Ghostbloods is the organisation created on Roshar to help a certain person breach back into the physical realm from the spiritual one(?)

I love your theories but I don't have time to respond to them as I've already run past my lunch break 😅 woops. Great review and so many good things in this post!

Ok I have finished my review for Rhythm Of War, it’s a long review with some spoiler questions and theories at the end, which I state. Hope you enjoy! 😊

One word though to sum up my feelings of this book…Incredible!!

All the books in the series so far are a 5/5 ⭐️ for me.

Spoiler free:

Brandon Sanderson is a master world builder and creates such well developed characters; that have so many layers and complexities about them that you can relate and understand them as people and the struggles they each go through.

Sanderson creates tiers and tiers of plots in the story that when you discover a truth a new secret is revealed waiting to be explored and revealed; it makes the story so intriguing and intense.

The plot is layered and intriguing making you want to keep reading and reading to learn more about the story as you become more invested and submerged in the story.

The plot intertwined so many elements; action, emotion, development of characters and intrigue, politics, diversity and so much more, but well balanced so no one of those elements are overshadowing the other.

Brandon Sanderson represents mental health and representation perfectly, especially within fantasy.

Such as:

Depression

Dissociative identity disorder

Diversity- different cultures and ethnicities

LGBTQ+

He displays mental health so well and accurately, especially with depression you have good days then you have really bad days. This is really highlighted in Kaladin as this book especially shows how much he is struggling and trying to deal with issues that should have been addressed earlier. There were scenes that really broke my heart because he pushes and pushes himself beyond his limits, creating more of himself to break and hurt. However, through the struggle he finds peace with the help from his friends and family, Bridge Four. This just makes Kaladin stronger because he is not alone and can persist as long as he has friends and family.

BRIDGE FOUR SALUTE!!! 🙅🏼‍♀️

Shallan’s dissociative identity disorder is so well crafted and developed because you can distinguish her personalities and who she is in the scenes, from either Shallan, Veil or Radiant. I felt so sorry for Shallan as she was really breaking apart and struggling with her past and how to cope with all that happened while trying to maintain the illusion that everything was okay when it really wasn’t. You could see her retreating each time letting either Veil or Radiant take over because it became too much at times for Shallan to bare. Shallan fragmented a lot but she is or was never truly alone for she had Veil and Radiant but also and most importantly Adolin and all her other friends who love her. I hope she can get to a place where she can talk about her past because that will help her healing process.

Plot:

Rhythm of war takes place a year after Oathbringer, continuing with the fight and the war between the Fused and the God, Oduim.

Brandon Sanderson keeps the balance between action, conversation and plot development and progression so well. Where each element doesn’t overshadow or overwhelm one another; making you intrigued and no where near bored. Perfectly balanced.

Characters:

Kaladin Stormblessed: My heart was breaking for Kaladin. Everything he does to try and help himself he gets better to only get a set back and be hurt again. I just love Kaladin’s unwavering ability to never give up and his determination to help all who need help, especially his family, Bridge Four.

His depression however, is so well done and crafted honestly, that I’m in awe with how far Kaladin has come. He deserves to be happy and to forgive himself for past mistakes and misfortunes.

I’m proud of him. He is truly a Knight Radiant. Can’t wait to see him become even more. 💕

I loved seeing him with his parents and him playing with his little brother; the different viewpoints they have on certain situations, especially Kaladin and his father, but also seeing them connect and work through their grief and differences.

Also, Syl always being there for Kaladin and wanting to help him in any way she can. She is truly wonderful and a constant for Kaladin to rely on.

As well he can always depend on Bridge Four to help him get through the rough and good days. Love the family aspect with Bridge Four, they make me wish I was a member. I cry and laugh with them. 😭♥️

Shallan Davar: I felt so sorry for Shallan as she kept on fragmenting and splitting herself apart by not confronting her past and the guilt she holds within. Shallan deserves to be happy and to not blame herself for the trauma in her childhood. The way Sanderson developed and created the personalities Shallan made to help her cope with her trauma was developed so authentically and genuinely, that it was beautifully heartbreaking to see her other personas try to help Shallan and be there to protect her. Truly had me crying. 😭

The chapter 93, ‘Strong enough’ (I won’t spoil, but those who have read the book will know what I mean) was so sad but also wonderful to see Shallan let go and heal a little by helping herself and confronting from within. It honestly lifted my own burden and pain away because I was so proud of Shallan taking that first step of acceptance and healing. Shallan letting go, helped me let go and become a little more healed. ♥️

Shallan and Adolin moments were purely wholesome and sweet because Adolin was always there for Shallan and didn’t judge her or over protect, but was always there to be someone she can talk to or simply there for a hug and security. Adolin is Shallan’s home. Warm. Secure. Safe. Adolin’s optimism helps Shallan’s mental well being as he is a ray of sunshine on her darkest of nights.

I hope in time Shallan can tell Adolin the whole truth of what happened to her and what she did because it will help her let go and heal more. 💕

Dalinar Kholin: What I love about Dalinar is that he keeps trying to become better and better to change and be the best man he can be. His drive to change is pure, but sometimes what he does in order to change and makes himself stronger and better can cause rifts and uncertainty, especially towards his spren, the Stormfather.

I love how Dalinar tries to keep Kaladin safe and protect him, always there to catch him when he falls.

It was sad to see tension and awkwardness between himself and Adolin, due to Adolin’s own anger and frustrations with Dalinar and the wedge with the common knowledge of what was the fate of Evi.

However, you can see Dalinar is trying to be better and does hold a lot of guilt and shame, especially towards his lack of parenthood between his sons as he spends time and tries to be a presence in Gavinor’s life. So Gavinor doesn’t feel a lack of love and to have a masculine role model in his life, a father. A grandfather. Their moments together were sweet and tender.

It was wholesome seeing Renarin and Dalinar connect and bond some more because as we know Dalinar lacked in parents skills in Renarin and Adolin’s childhood, and just wasn’t overly there for them growing up, especially for Renarin. So it was nice seeing them have a moment together, but also sad knowing that Adolin and Dalinar has disconnected and now perhaps Dalinar is connecting with his other son. It’s sort of a thing, like when one child, one son, is disconnects and moves away, the other son starts to reconnect and strengthen a bond between child and parent.

I hope though that in the next book, Dalinar will speak to his sons and have a discussion about what they are all thinking and feeling towards each other because I think they need a moment together as a family to work through their problems, so they can resolve them. Plus, it would be wholesome to have that moment between the three of them. 💕

Adolin Kholin: I love Adolin. Throughout the series we have seen him grown and change to more than just this charming, at times showy off character, to someone who is insecure and can have his own struggles, despite his optimistic attitude. Especially, in this book you could see he was struggling to find where he belongs in this world full of Spren and Knight Radiants. How he feels a disappointment especially to his father. It was nice and sad however seeing Adolin try to defend himself against Dalinar, but sad how Adolin feels like a child and not his own Highprince in his father’s eyes.

I just feel really sorry for Adolin because he feels as if he is lost and uncertain about many things and how he now feels with his father, now knowing the truth of the fate of his mother and how that changes his view on Dalinar and his relationship with his father. 😢

Adolin never gives up and it was wonderful yet heart wrenching to see how far he is willing to go to prove to himself and to his father, so he isn’t a disappointment, yet at the same time not being able to stand Dalinar, his father.

However, I love how Adolin is always there for his friends and especially Kaladin and Shallan, never giving up on either of them. He just wants to help them both because he loves them. Adolin is someone who won’t give up and someone you can depend upon. 💕

I hope in the next book we see Adolin, Dalinar and Renarin talk to each other about their differences and issues because I think they need to in order to help one another and resolve their problems. Together. As a family.

Navani Kholin: It was nice seeing more of Navani and learning more about her past and how her and Gavilar’s relationship was towards the end before his assassination. She really grew and developed in this book, seeing the scholar she truly is and her fascination with the world and it’s mechanisms.

It was wonderful to see her so intrigued and marvelling at all the possibilities of creating new equipment and tools.

It was sad when the mentions of Elhokar was spoken because you could see she was trying to be strong when in the inside she was crushed, but still has the will to keep going and not give up on herself and her friends and family.

Also, loved seeing her sweet and tender moments with her grandson, Gavinor. He is quite adorable, yet he as well is traumatised after what happened to his father, Elhokar.

Navani is a force to be reckoned with and very interested to see what happens in the next book.

Jasnah Kholin: Jasnah is a Queen. 👸🏽 Pure and simple. Literal sense and character sense. I loved seeing Jasnah embracing her crown and being a queen, by politically undermining them and using good old fashion blackmail with Wit at her side.

I loved seeing the relationship between Wit and Jasnah; how she views him as a fascination she wants to crack and unearth all his secrets. He is intriguing to her, but also someone she can talk to and relax with.

It was nice seeing Jasnah insecure as well because it makes her feel more real and grounded as a character as her paranoia of getting hurt again was evident in her checking her surroundings making sure no one can get in.

Also, her insecurities about battle and fighting, even though she can take care of herself, brought back the sense that she does worry and isn’t as confident in fighting as she is with her studies.

Really intrigued by Jasnah and how Wit and her relationship will develop into and the impacts of all it. With their plan and the secrets Wit keeps.

Venli: I really liked and found Venli’s background and her as a person really interesting. You could see her dislike to certain actions the Fused were taking and that she knew she had been the reason for the lot of the problems and conflict that has come due to decisions being made.

It was nice seeing her develop and grow as a person and see the real reasons and intentions for the decisions she made. There were moments where I really connected with her, especially with her mother as I have had family where they acted like how her mother was, dementia like symptoms. I felt really sorry for her and I enjoyed seeing moments of wholesomeness between her and Eshonia and their mother. Seeing her relationship with her sister and how that impacted on her and the decisions she made.

It was good seeing Venli accept the wrongs she did and owed up to them because it lets her forgive herself and for others to eventually forgive her. So, she can help her people and come into her own powers.

Renarin Kholin: I love Renarin. I feel really sorry for him as he is such an innocent and sweet soul, who only wants to help and feel like he belongs. I loved seeing him and Dalinar connect more and feel like they have something in common and bonding over that fact. It was interesting learning of how Renarin feels about Evi’s death, how in someway it’s made him perhaps closer to his father as he has lost one parent and has to tell himself that it was Odium’s influence not Dalinar’s choice.

It was a shame we didn’t see Renarin a lot, but I hope in the next book he features more in it. 💕

Szeth: It was nice learning more about Szeth and his background. I like that he is trying hard to make amends for the actions he committed. His commitment to protecting Dalinar and trying his hardest to be vigilant and protect him and his family is admirable.

I feel sorry for him because he still feels ashamed and guilty over his crimes and to never let anyone have control over him again.

Bridge Four: I love all the members of Bridge Four. 🥰 It was really interesting and lovely reading from some of their POV’s. Dabbid, I was so proud of him! 😭♥️ Honestly, he is so sweet. I love him. Rhlain, love and proud of him too. He is so sweet and caring. Rock, love him and just…😭😭 (no spoilers) Teft, love him…🥺😭I feel really proud of all Bridge Four and all they have accomplished together. As a family.

Taravangian: He is really interesting and very intrigued by what he is going to do next. I did really love that you could see he was guilty and ashamed by losing a friend in Dalinar and the lack of trust people have in him now, rightfully so, but feel sorry nevertheless.

However, very intriguing about what he is going to accomplish in the next book.

Lirin and Hesina (Kaladin’s parents): I really enjoyed learning more about them and their lives, also getting a glimpse of their relationship together.

It was interesting seeing the different viewpoints and disagreements Kaladin had especially with him father, Lirin, yet at the same time seeing the love and care they do have for each other even if they have different opinions. It was nice just seeing a family dynamic between them three. And Kaladin’s little brother.

Moash: I understand why Moash committed the actions he did, but does not mean I agree with him and his actions. In some ways, I feel sorry for him as he is clearly full of shame and guilt, but I guess he is too blinded with vengeances, unfairness and injustices, to be changed back to his older self.

But at the same time, I want to slap and shake him to show him what his actions have caused. The people he has hurt, the families he has broken. The self he has shattered.

Wit: I love Wit and his frustrating secrets. Wit is someone you’ll have a normal conversation with only to realise you have been had and has riddled away your money, without any sense of who and what you are. He is a puzzle. A trickster.

I am very intrigued by him and who and where he comes from originally.

I loved seeing him and Jasnah together and how they relationship will develop in the next book. 💕

And that ending….talk about a cliffhanger??!! 😱 Very excited to read the next one.

In conclusion, The Stormlight Archieve has become one of my favourite series. 💕

I am throughly invested in this series. The plot is intriguing, the characters so well fleshed out and developed and developing, that I am looking forward to seeing what these characters will accomplish. I’m very excited. Also, I want to learn all the secrets and the lore of the world Brandon Sanderson has created. I can’t wait to read the next one and see what happens next. 😊

Spoiler questions and theories:

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Spoiler questions:

How did Jasnah get her Shardplate and where from? Is it because she has sworn the 4th ideal and the plate is made of spren or is it actually plate?

Plus, where did Jasnah learn to fight? Where and who trained her?

Are Jasnah and Wit intimate together? I wasn’t sure if her and Wit are that close or if she thinking that what he will want that from her if their relationship develops further?

Has Shallan told Adolin about her past? How and why she killed her parents? Because I know at the end she told him about Marize and the ghostbloods. But does he know about her actual past and what she did?

I’m not sure if this is a really dumb question or not as I’m just getting into the Cosmere and trying to piece the puzzles together and understand all it’s intricacies. But in terms of timelines and worlds, is Mistborn Era 1 before Warbreaker and the Stormlight Archive?

And is the Mistborn world set on a different planet and technically in the past in comparison to the Stormlight Archieve?

And is Warbreaker set on another planet to Mistborn and the Stormlight Archieve?

Does Cosmere mean Sanderson’s universe he has created and is Investiture a blanket term for the magic each in Sanderson’s worlds or is it the other way round or am I completely wrong? 🤷🏼‍♀️

Are the Ghostbloods mentioned in Mistborn Era 1 and 2 as I saw some connections such as Preservation and Ruin. Harmony as well; what I think might be Sazed, but it’s been a while since I have read Mistborn. I’m just trying to piece the connections together and I’m not sure if the Ghostbloods are in Mistborn or if they are named differently in either Era 1 or 2?

Theories for the next book:

Does anyone think that maybe Adolin will be the one to fight Odium’s champion because I think Adolin would do it and as he has a dualist’s heart and is skilled with the sword, he could defeat the enemy? Take Dalinar’s place and fight instead.

Does anyone have any inklings of who Dalinar will face as Odium’s champion??

Could it be someone dead?? Is that possible?? 🤷🏼‍♀️

Anyone have any ideas about what Adolin’s and Maya’s bond means? Not a Knight Radiant, but maybe something even stronger and more powerful? Adolin becoming a Herald??

Anyone know what those Spren corpses could mean?? And how they are physically here??

Anyone hope we could see flashbacks into Adolin’s and Renarin’s childhood and see Evi again?? Would love to see more of Evi and Adolin and Renarin as children.

Also, any other general theories about what the next book is about and what could happen? If anyone does know Brandon Sanderson’s plan for the series or the next book, I would love to know. 💕

[mamabookwormconfessions]

Mistborn Era 1 and 2 book review

I finally reread through all of the Mistborn books! I had read the first set last in high school and the second set was soon after I had baby A, so I was overdue for a reread. I'll try to say a bit about each book, but also consolidate when I can. Overall while I enjoyed the books the first time I had read the books, I'd say I loved them even more this time around! WARNING: Mild spoilers ahead!  The first book (in series one) is Mistborn: The Final Empire. From Goodreads: In a world where ash falls from the sky, and mist dominates the night, an evil cloaks the land and stifles all life. The future of the empire rests on the shoulders of a troublemaker and his young apprentice. Together, can they fill the world with color once more? In Brandon Sanderson's intriguing tale of love, loss, despair and hope, a new kind of magic enters the stage — Allomancy, a magic of the metals. My brother-in-law introduced me to this series back in high school and it was as good as I remembered it. In terms of characters, I really like the main crew of characters; however, Vin is the one I relate the most to. She's more of a quiet character who observes and thinks before she acts. She is tough, but is often not quite sure of herself. Vin grows up a lot throughout the first set of books and it's interesting to see how she changes. For the other characters, I really enjoyed their development as well as the wide range of character types. These characters don't disappoint and most anyone will find someone to relate to. The overall plot for the first book was excellent. The book is lengthy, but I was engaged the entire time and was excited to see what was going to happen to the characters. This book is fairly clean; however, the author does write some rather gruesome moments. I don't recall any swearing, but there is mention of prostitution and rape (not detailed, just someone mentioning that it happens and certain characters have participated in it). The Final Empire is definitely my favorite of the first three books and a must read for anyone who enjoys fantasy novels. I'd recommend this for high school readers or above just due to the gore. I'm very sensitive to that, but it didn't bother me too badly here. The Well of Ascension is the second book of the series. From Goodreads: Vin, the street urchin who has grown into the most powerful Mistborn in the land, and Elend Venture, the idealistic young nobleman who loves her, must build a healthy new society in the ashes of an empire. Three separate armies attack. As the siege tightens, an ancient legend seems to offer a glimmer of hope. But even if it really exists, no one knows where to find the Well of Ascension or what manner of power it bestows. The Hero of Ages is the final book of the first series. From Goodreads: Tricked into releasing the evil spirit Ruin while attempting to close the Well of Ascension, new emperor Elend Venture and his wife, the assassin Vin, are now hard-pressed to save the world. In terms of characters, plot, and cleanliness, these next two novels are very similar to the first in the series. However, about halfway through both books I was ready for it to be over. I am all for long books; however, an author shouldn't just keep going for the sake of going. Have a point! I was reading these and just thinking that this guy needs to learn how to edit. If you plan on reading anything else in this series, definitely finish reading these last 2 books even though they feel like they are never going to end.    I loved this series even more than the first!! While I believe these are kind of apart from the first series, it does help to have read the first series. The first series characters are mentioned throughout the second and it is fun to know the whole backstory. However, not necessary for full enjoyment. I read this series once before rereading the first group and while I did like the story, I was wishing I could remember the characters that were mentioned. Alloy of Law: Centuries after the Mistborn trilogy, Scadrial is on the verge of modernity - railroads, electric street lights, and skyscrapers. Waxillium Ladrian can Push on metals with his Allomancy and use Feruchemy to become lighter or heavier at will. After 20 years in the dusty Roughs, in the city of Elendel, the new head of a noble house may need to keep his guns. Shadows of Self: 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. Shadows of Self will give fans of The Alloy of Law everything they’ve been hoping for and, this being a Brandon Sanderson book, more, much more. The Bands of Mourning: 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. It is really hard to pick a favorite character from these books. I love how they interact and how we get to see a bit of the story from their points of view, which I believe is pretty hard to do. The author gives you Waxillium and Wayne, a lawman and his side kick,who are pretty funny together. Marasi and Steris (sorry if I spelled the names wrong) are also wonderful, especially Steris in book 3. MeLaan is also a great addition to the team (and from series one). The characters all develop well, but Steris has by far the best development so far. I may be biased because she just reminds me a lot of me. I wish I could say more, but I would give away too much of the plot so all I can say is that she is awesome! The plot is great and consistent throughout this series, plus it is all pretty streamlined. The author wrote enough to tell the stories well, but ended making me wish there was more. I'd rather want more than wish the story was over already. For anyone concerned with this, there is an lgbt character; however, the story doesn't go beyond just saying that the character is lgbt. In terms of cleanliness, there are a few swears sprinkled throughout and Wayne can be crude here and there but nothing too scandalous in my option. I would still keep with readers being in high school or older before reading this series. I am really excited to see what is going to happen in book 4, but the author hasn't started it yet :( You CAN keep an eye on story progression here. Let me know what you thought of the books, or leave other book recommendations, in the comments!! I look forward to hearing from you. I can definitely always use another book 😃

[cosmerelists]

If Warbreaker and Stormlight characters met each other...

[Spoilers for Warbreaker & for Stormlight!]

Stormlight characters have previously encountered Mistborn characters from both Era 1 and Era 2. But in honor of my finally rereading Warbreaker, let’s see what that matchup might be like!

1. Adolin & Siri

Adolin: THREE new elaborate dresses? Every morning?!

Siri: Yes!! And they always had some more in the back too, just in case!

Adolin: And they just...destroyed the ones you didn’t wear?

Siri: I think so! They NEVER repeated options and I know they burned the ones I did wear!

Adolin: Who was designing & crafting half a dozen royal gowns every single day??

Siri: I don’t know! But they must have been AMAZING at their jobs--and very okay with their beautiful work being destroyed.

Adolin: It’s both a fashion triumph and a fashion crime at the same time!

Siri: I know!!

2. Elhokar & Vivenna

Vivenna: And I hired these mercenary bodyguards to help me stop the war but it turned out they were working against me and tried to kill me!

Elhokar: Omg that’s my worst nightmare!

Elhokar: It happened to me too! One of my own guards tried to assassinate me!

Vivenna: That’s horrible! How come?

Elhokar: Oh some mix-up where I threw his innocent grandparents in jail & left them there until they died.

Vivenna: ...

Vivenna: And you’re the good guy in this story?

Elhokar: Hey!

Vivenna: J-Just asking!

3. Lopen & Susebron

Susebron: For fifty years, I had no tongue. They cut it out.

Susebron: Until one day, a god gave his life to heal me.

Lopen: That’s an amazing story, gon!

Lopen: I was a one-armed Herdazian for a while.

Lopen: Then I grew my own arm back. And nobody died! 

Susebron: ...

Lopen: Hey, so basically, I’m stronger than a God King!

Lopen: Can I stick you to a wall?

4. Sadeas & Denth

Denth: Funny thing about being a mercenary.

Denth: You literally tell people that you’re just in it for the money. That you’re not a good person. 

Denth: And they’re still shocked when you betray them for the money!

Sadeas: I know what you mean.

Sadeas: I told Dalinar that his honor would get him killed.

Sadeas: And then when I took advantage of his honor and left him to die, he was like...surprised Pikachu face.

Denth: [tsks] No one values honesty anymore.

5. Weatherlove & Bridge Four

[Author’s note: Weatherlove is just a random Returned that Lightsong hangs out with once.]

Drehy: Wow! Look at this small but muscular man!

Weatherlove: Small?? I-I’ll have you know that we gods TOWER over the common man!

Teft: I mean, you’re only a little taller than Kaladin and Moash.

Rock: And shorter than me, ha!

Sigzil: The Fused are quite a bit taller than you.

Skar: You do look strong, though! I bet you could carry a bridge--with practice.

Weatherlove: ...I hate this place.

6. Shallan & Lightsong

Lightsong: I hear that you are one of the wittiest characters in your book.

Shallan: I’ve been known to turn a phrase or two. You as well?

Lightsong: Written to be someone who could thrive in an Oscar Wilde play!

Shallan: Why do you suppose we’re talking about wittiness rather than actually saying anything witty?

Lightsong: I have to imagine the blogger doesn’t have any idea how to write dialogue between characters like us!

Shallan: Tragic, really.

Lightsong: A true loss for all. 

7. Jasnah & Blushweaver

Jasnah: As a Veristitalian, I’ll admit I’m interested to talk with another planet’s Goddess of Honesty.

Blushweaver: Yes, and with the two of us together, one truth has already been made plain.

Jasnah: Oh? What is that?

Blushweaver: Looking at us, it’s clear that honesty must be stored in the boobs.

Jasnah: ...

Blushweaver: They don’t call you a VerisTITalian for nothing!

Jasnah: Why do I bother?

8. Kaladin, Adolin, Renarin & Vasher

Kaladin: It’s YOU!

Vasher: Yes, yes. It’s me.

Adolin: Stormfather! It’s YOU!

Vasher: So we’ve established.

Renarin: It’s YOU!!!

Vasher: Yes, yes. Everyone is so observant today.

Hoid: Hey!

Hoid: Stop stealing my bit!!!

[cosmerelists]

Why I Think Dalinar Will Lose

[MAJOR spoilers for Rhythm of War! Spoilers also for Mistborn included in #1]

At the end of Rhythm of War, Odium and Dalinar set terms for the Contest of Champions: it’s happening in 10 days, and they’re each picking a willing champion to fight to the death on the top of Urithiru. Dalinar has decided to be his own champion, but we don’t yet know who Odium’s champion will be. We also don’t know what the outcome will be.

And personally? I’m wagering that Dalinar will lose the fight. And here’s why.

1. We’re halfway through a 10-book series.

I mean, it’s like when the protagonists of a TV show have a great plan...10 minutes into the episode. You know it’s not going to work out. Now, this is a little different, since there’s going to be a time jump before Stormlight 6 and who knows what the plot of the second half of the series is going to be--it could be like Mistborn Era 1, in which [spoilers ahead] the Lord Ruler did really die at the end of Book 1 and then the next two books dealt with the fallout. But still. I feel very suspicious about our protagonists winning against Odium this early.

2. Taravangian’s now in charge.

Dalinar could handle the old Odium--they’d verbally sparred a few times already, and Dalinar always came out on top. This Contest of Champions business itself is Rayse making what seems to be a pretty bad deal--he’s bound to the system no matter the outcome. But now it’s not Rayse any longer; it’s Taravangian. And Taravangian is scarier--even Hoid freaked out before his memories were wiped. And in that same scene, Taravangian realized something. We don’t know what, but I am not optimistic about what it means for Dalinar.

3. The Mysterious Odium Champion

My previous list/poll about who Odium’s champion might be raised a number of seeming no-win situations for Dalinar--especially once you take into account the comments I got on my poll. What is Dalinar supposed to do if his grandson Gavinor is the champion? Or Adolin? What if it’s Taln, and killing him will mean breaking the oathpact and letting Odium free after all? And if WE can come up with these seemingly unwinnable situations for Dalinar, what could Brandon Sanderson come up with?? The fact that we don’t know who the champion is makes it seem much worse for Dalinar, somehow.

4. It’s just the more interesting outcome

Like, if Dalinar loses, he becomes Odium’s agent in the wider Cosmere: evil, worldhopping Dalinar working for Odium and presumably doing what he can to undermine him at the same time. Flavors of Marsh from Mistborn Era 1. To me, that just feels more narratologically interesting than Dalinar winning, getting some land back, and then the borders freezing where they are. 

5. There’s always another secret.

I feel pretty secure in stating that there will be SOMETHING unexpected about this duel. Maybe it won’t be Dalinar losing--maybe it will be someone other than Dalinar being his champion (I haven’t given up on a Kaladin vs. Moash fight). Maybe the fight won’t happen at all, due to some sort of Taravangian machinations. Maybe we’ll finally find out what made the Radiants break their oaths in the first place and the fight will take on new and more terrible connotations. I’m not that good at guessing. So for me, the simple “twist” to expect is Dalinar losing.

What do you all think? Take the poll to share your thoughts!

[aceofstars121]

Thanks for the tags guys! And @revenge-of-the-shit. Sorry for the wait, I always do this.

3 ships: Okay, I'm aroace and not much of a shipper but

#1 Vinture, or Elend Venture/Vin from the mistborn series. Pretty much the only OTP I've ever had. Without going into too many spoilers, they're the best couple ever. They're both extremely supportive of each other's actions and trust each other absolutely. There's this one part where Vin does something and everyone thinks she's gone off the deep end but Elend is the only one to believe in her and is certain she has a reason for what she did. There's barely any romantic conflict between them except in book 2 where they both feel unworthy of each other, but they're always portrayed as a healthy, in love, functional couple growing and working together, and it's awesome. Also they're epic in book 3 but I'm not spoiling one of my favourite character arcs of all time. They love each other, but not to the point of obsession and are able to put their love aside and do the right thing (Anakin take notes). In conclusion, they are life goals and the best couple ever this is very long isn't it.

#2 Catradora or Catra/Adora from the new-ish She-Ra

Less because of the actual romance but because of the way their relationship is the centre of the story and Catra's arc throughout the show (I have a whole post on this that I can link to anyone interested), and how she deals with Adora's abandonment of her. As someone who's gone through similar (but less gay) situations myself, it's extremely relatable, I can see myself in so many of her actions. The ending is just........amazing. I love it. (Although major apologies need to be had) Also there is no heterosexual explanation for Catra's hey Adoras. There just isn't (Honourable mention to Scorpia's huge lesbian crush on Catra. They could have been awesome together if Catra was ready for that)

#3 ehhhhh...... idk really. I have a few ships I like for certain reasons but I'm not a shipper

Last song: Speechless from the new Aladdin. I haven't seen the remake because Disney remakes are.......ya know.......bad and it doesn't sound like an Aladdin song but heck if it isn't amazing. One of my characters is currently vibing to this.

Last movie: The matrix. The idea was great, if a little unrealistic, but seriously mind bending to think about the fact that you could be in the matrix right now and not know it. Effects and action are amazing, especially for the time. Characters are.....meh but I loved the movie anyways. Also it inspired one of my favourite fics so that's also awesome.

Currently reading: The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson. Read it. Read all of Cosmere. The characters are some of the best I've ever seen, worldbuilding and magic systems are really interesting. Just read it. Possibly the best books I've ever read. Stormlight is LOTR-era fantasy, but it feels like an actual story with humans instead of a history book (yes, lord of the rings does have some good characters, but Sanderson is a lot more focused on all aspects of the story than Mr. Worldbuilding JRR Tolkien). Also the extended universe is really cool, although I don't 100% understand everything yet because I haven't read everything. Look out for Hoid. Read this. You will not regret it. Then come yell at me somewhere.

Currently watching: The umbrella academy. It's great, although I keep calling Five Fives. I would write more but this is an edit and this post is long enough already.

Currently consuming: My motivation to carry on. Luckily I'm on holidays so that'll help. I can actually do things I like now.

Currently craving: a lightsaber. Please. I'll probably make one. New chapters of a bunch of fics (my loyalties lie, coppertop, mttt au, @jackdaw-kraai's one with the long name, disconnected conduit, the one I've forgotten I'm sorry dude) Guys you're all amazing I love u and your work.

Wow this is long. Sorry.

Tagging eeeehhhh..... I'm pretty sure @cf-2007-vibe is the only member of the Discord gang that hasn't been tagged yet. @valley-o you can have a tag if you want one too. Honorary tag to the rest of the new-sw-canon server even tho no ones going to see it since no one follows me on here.

catch up tag game

aahhh thanks sm for the tag @katierosefun !!

rules: tag 9 people you’d like to get to know better/catch up with

3 ships: hmm I’m not much of a shipper in general, especially in star wars, so I’m gonna go with some non-star wars ships here. Korrasami (!!! I love them), Catradora (they’re canon I still can’t believe it), and hmmm maybe Anastasia and Dimitri from Anastasia the Musical? (I love that musical sm, the soundtrack is so gorgeous)

Last song: “It’s Quiet Uptown” from Hamilton! Before that, it was “Little Miss Perfect” sung by Taylor Louderman

Last movie: Enola Holmes! that was such a cute movie aaaahh

Currently reading: Dark Matter by Blake Crouch

Currently watching: Cobra Kai! not my usual type of show, I have no idea why I’ve become so invested in these characters lol. also a slow but steady Clone Wars rewatch!

Currently consuming: nothing as of right now, but I had an apple a little while ago :D

Currently craving: time management skills XD

no pressure tags: @ah-nakin @simpskywalker  @sonderwalker  @ayo-cowbelly  @aceofstars144  @alabasterswriting  @jasontoddiefor  @waterrose3 @truncated-tetrahedron

[cosmerelists]

If Era 2 Mistborn Characters and Stormlight Characters Met Each Other...

We already considered how Era 1 Mistborn characters & Stormlight characters would get along. But what about Era 2 Mistborn?

[Includes spoilers through The Lost Metal & Rhythm of War!]

1. Dalinar & Wax

Wax: It’s something, isn’t? Finding a new love after losing your first one?

Dalinar: It was not something I expected or believed could happen, after I lost Evi.

Wax: Yes, especially when it’s you who accidentally killed your first love...

Dalinar: Er, yes...

Wax: ...and then killed her again, but on purpose the second time...

Dalinar: ...Metaphorically, you mean?

Wax: No.

2. Navani & Ranette

Ranette: So this glove makes its wearer just...shoot off in the direction it’s pointing??

Navani: Er...yes. It’s just a prototype. I assure you, I have many more inventions that...

Ranette: I am 100% giving this to Wayne. 

3. Renarin & Steris

Steris: So...you can see all possible futures?

Renarin: Well, maybe not all. But I can see the possibilities expanding out like broken glass.

Steris: ...

Renarin: I know. It is forbidden to see the future, and belongs to corrupted spren but I...

Steris: [literally vibrating with excitement]

Steris: I have never wanted anything more!

4. Jasnah and MeLaan

Jasnah: So you can craft your body to be as you wish it?

MeLaan: Sure can! And I did the whole stately, breasted boobily look for a while!

Jasnah: ...

MeLaan: Been into androgyny lately. 

Jasnah: Yes, I can see how having both options would be enormously advantageous.

MeLaan (conspiratorially): But most importantly I can turn my skin transparent and show off MY GLOWING BONES!!

Jasnah: I am going to write many papers about you.

5. Veil & Wayne

Wayne: Nice hat, mate!

Veil: Thanks! You could say it makes me the woman I am!

Wayne: New hat, new you? Trust me, I get that plenty!

Veil: Yeah, I get the feeling you do!

6. Rock & Allik

Rock: These pastries are wonderful, friend! You are far less of an airsick-lowerlander than most men I know!

Allik: My people have airships!

Rock:  Ha! That must be why!

7. Paalm & Taravangian

Taravangian: I am a very big fan of the whole “Kill as many people as it takes to free the world from a god’s influence,” my friend.

Paalm: Thanks, I guess.

Paalm: I like the way you literally stole your god’s body and took it over.

Taravangian: And “Bleeder!” What a great name! I’ve bled a few people to death myself, you know.

Paalm: I think your world is very lucky you haven’t discovered Hemalurgy. 

Paalm: Yet. 

8. Marasi & Shallan

Marasi: Oh wow, the Ghostbloods tried to recruit me too!

Shallan: The promise of interplanetary knowledge is pretty tempting, huh?

Marasi: Oh man, it so was!

Marasi: But I had to turn them down. And I appreciated how nice they were about it!

Shallan: ...Nice?

Marasi: Oh yeah! Just all “Lovely to meet you. Thanks for considering us. Have a great life!”

Shallan: On my planet they literally tried to sell a child!

[cosmerelists]

Things that Wax & Szeth Could Talk About

[Spoilers for Mistborn Era 2 & for Stormlight Archives!]

Have you ever thought about how much Wax & Szeth have in common? No? Well, just imagine all of the things they could reasonably talk about! Things like...

1. Dying

Wax: Yeah, I died once.

Wax: Met God and everything.

Wax: He told me that I could embark on the adventure that was death, or I could continue on the adventure that was life. To me, life felt like more of a duty than an adventure.

Wax: But I literally always pick duty, so I picked life, and here I am.

Szeth: I was brought back against my will.

Szeth: I SAID I wanted to stay dead and that I DIDN’T want to study, but Nale was all, “Sucks to be you. Here’s your new sword.”

Szeth: And then he nailed my soul to my body. Somewhat badly. 

Wax: I’m...very sorry to hear that? 

Szeth (solemnly): Thank you.

2. Flying

Wax: I fly by ingesting steel which allows me to Push on metals in the environment, launching me into the air.

Wax: I can also make myself lighter or heavier, which helps somehow.

Szeth: I fly by breathing in Stormlight and then Lashing myself in various directions. 

Wax: I love it. You never feel so free as you do when you’re soaring through the air, you know?

Szeth: I have never felt free a day in my life.

Wax: I’m...very sorry to hear that?

Szeth (solemnly): Thank you.

3. Killing

Wax: I do seem to kill a lot of people.

Wax: I once meat-grinded my way through an entire skyscraper of people, floor by floor.

Szeth: I killed my way across many countries.

Wax: Are you a lawman?

Szeth: Assassin.

Wax: ...Should I be arresting you?

Szeth: No--I already died for that. Now I am reborn. And I don’t assassinate any more. Very often.

Wax: Very often?

Szeth: I did kill the man who ordered all of the assassinations to begin with.

Wax: Well, that seems fair.

Szeth: Thank you.

4. Social class

Wax: I’m a noble, but I tried to reject that for a while by becoming a Gentleman Lawman in the Roughs.

Wax: Now I’m a Roughs Politician.

Wax: So long as its backwards, I feel fine.

Szeth: The status of my family has not yet been revealed to readers.

Szeth: But since I was bonded to an Honorblade, many readers think that they can guess.

Wax: You were a noble too?

Szeth: Heck no.

Szeth: In my society, only the lowest of the low engage in something as barbaric as fighting.

Szeth: Presumably, I was always considered scum.

Wax: I don’t want to keep saying “I’m sorry” but...

5. Weight

Wax: Can you imagine actually weighing what you weigh?

Szeth: Not lash myself upwards so that I’m super light on my feet? Seems fake.

Wax: Normal people have it rough.

6. Having to be the mature one

Wax: Wayne is family and my best friend.

Wax: But I have to make sure he doesn’t pocket anything too valuable or make the sort of comment that’ll get him shot, you know?

Szeth: I do. My sword would love to kill more people and eat more souls, but sometimes I have to put my foot down and say “Not today.”

7. Following inanimate objects

Szeth: People don’t understand, but I had to obey my Oathstone. 

Szeth: As a Truthless, that stone commanded my life.

Wax: I think I might understand - sort of?

Wax: This earring lets me talk to God.

Szeth: Our god is dead.

Wax: Man, wouldn’t that be nice sometimes.

Szeth: What?

Wax: What?

8. The Law

Szeth: As a Skybreaker, I am to obey the law wherever I find myself.

Szeth: But Nale says that human laws are frail and prone to injustice.

Wax: I understand how you feel.

Wax: I once had to face off against a fellow lawman who argued that the law only protected the powerful, and that real change would take a violent overthrow of the whole social order.

Szeth: What did you do?

Wax: Arrested him. What about you?

Szeth: Swore to follow this guy I sort of knew.

Wax: How is that uh going for you?

Szeth: Pretty well thank you for asking.

9. The Drama

Szeth: I wore white on the day I was to kill a king.

Wax: I wear Roughs clothes in the city and nice suits in the Roughs.

Szeth: I cut my way into buildings with my magic sword.

Wax: I crash through walls, windows, the floor--you name it.

Szeth: I am excellent at lurking.

Wax: I am the best at looming.

Szeth: I once fought a man in the middle of a storm, running across entire plateaus that had been tossed into the air in the tumult. 

Wax: Came back to life, held the powers of Creation, and pulled down an entire Airship of War using my powers. 

Szeth: ...

Wax: ...

Wax: Did we just become best friends?