“Sometimes, I worry that I’m not the hero everyone thinks I am.The philosophers assure me that this is the time, that the signs have been met. They say I will hold the future of the entire world on my arms. What would they think if they knew that their champion–the Hero of Ages, their savior–doubted himself? Perhaps they wouldn’t be shocked at all. In a way, this is what worries me most. Maybe, in their hearts, they wonder–just as I do.When they see me, do they see a liar?”
(Paperback cover illustration by Chris McGrath)
Thus begins the first novel in the Mistborn Trilogy which a group of fellow adventurers have chosen to experience together for the first time. Along the way we hope to be joined by others who have already traveled this path as we discuss Mistborn: The Final Empire.
A thousand years of ash has fallen. A thousand years of oppression has befallen a people. A thousand years of rule by a “divine” ruler has gone unchallenged. That span of uninterrupted years is about to come grinding to a halt as Kelsier, bold thief and one of the Mistborn, gathers to himself a group of talented rogues and fellow allomancers to pull off his biggest job yet: the toppling of Lord Ruler’s reign.
For this first week we read through the prologue and chapters one through six. I took first week duties upon myself and came up with a handful of questions to kick this things off. Potential for spoilers does exist beyond the jump.
1. This first hundred or so pages was packed! What things are standing out for you in the story thus far?
First off I will readily acknowledge that the idea that I may be alone in my statement that the first section was “packed”. Hyperbole, thy name is Carl! However that is my genuine impression the opening chapters of the novel. Those of you who participated in the group read for The Way of Kings last year will no doubt be seeing Mistborn through WOK glasses and when I compare this beginning to the somewhat cryptic prologue of WOK, this novel seemed to gallop out of the starting gate like a prize racehorse. I am hoping that those comparisons in no way handicap this reading experience. I am not finding that to be the case thus far, so I remain hopeful.
I have no idea what I was expecting, but I do know that I was not expecting our journey to begin with murder and thieving. That alone has added a great deal to the excitement of this first section.
The world-building is fairly tight knit at this point with Sanderson playing everything close to the vest. I love that we are not treated to a “this is this, that is that” prologue but are instead shown what this world is and how part of it works. I cannot begin to say that I have a real grasp on the world system at this point but at the same time I do not feel at all lost. I am an intrigued viewer, gazing in with anticipation on the vignettes Sanderson is revealing.
I am also enjoying the opening diary lines of each chapter and am already questioning just who is talking and how these lines will tie in with the rest of this story. It seems to be a given that any book I host for a group read will include these chapter openings. Or at least it feels that way. Please don’t misinterpret that as a complaint as I am very fond of this style of storytelling.
2. What are your thoughts on the magic system that Sanderson is unveiling in this novel?
Very impressed. Although the practice of magic, allomancy, is not entirely scientific, its basis in various metals makes it feel like it is grounded in something solid. Like the world-building, this is not laid out for the reader textbook style but instead we see magic practiced in the heart of the story and more detail is revealed for the reader as Vin observes Kelsier using his powers. I am looking forward to learning more about this and seeing how Sanderson weaves the practice of allomancy into the story.
3. Kelsier and Vin have held most of the spotlight in these first 6 chapters. As you compare/contrast the two characters, how do you feel about them? Likes? Dislikes?
I liked Kelsier right away. He presented with a slightly flippant, confident swagger and that attitude has remained as we see him begin to gather together his team. I liked Vin as a character right away as well although I was a little worried about the direction her story was going to go when we see her as the recipient of physical battering/abuse at the hands of her “boss”. It may be old fashioned but I am not entertained when I see or read about women being abused. It wasn’t gratuitous, however, and Sanderson did elicit immediate emotion from me so I call it a success. I’m very happy at this time to know we will be seeing more of both characters as the story continues.
4. Finally, how would you assess Sanderson’s storytelling abilities to this point?
I gushed about Brandon Sanderson as we read and discussed The Way of Kings and my answers thus far seem to be following that same pattern. I will be interested as I read to see if I detect any indication that this story is less polished than The Way of Kings given that it was published earlier. What I am seeing at this point is what I have already witnessed, which is that Brandon Sanderson creates a really nice balance between interesting characters and integrated world-building. The only “flaw” I’ve seen to this point is that he has overused having his characters roll their eyes. There was so much eye-rolling going on in places that I would have thought the various characters would have been dizzy. A minor complaint, and one that hasn’t interfered with my intense enjoyment of the novel’s first 100 or so pages.
I look forward to knowing what all of you think of the book thus far. Please leave links to your discussion posts below.
And if you’ve read the book and want to join in, please do. I would ask that you confine your comments to the first 6 chapters so as not to spoil any part of the story.
I enjoy how Sanderson doesn’t hit us over the head with complicated explanations about his world. I really can’t get into books that have pages and pages of description of how things operate.
You aren’t old-fashioned. I don’t think many people enjoy reading stories about women who are abused. I’m with you, I was relieved that Vin’s abuse wasn’t her whole part in the story. Reading that makes me sick. I don’t know how I feel about her yet as a character. I like her, but don’t feel like I know her yet.
The eye-rolling hasn’t gotten to me yet, but I’m a little worried about the lack of character development. I can see a difference between this one and Way of Kings. I’m hoping we can see his evolution as a writer.
I’m not seeing the same lack of character development myself yet. I see a difference in that this book is getting into the action much more quickly (or at least it feels that way) but in the midst of that I think we’ve gotten a good foundation with both main characters. I guess we’ll see how it plays out.
I suspect, like you, that we will see some evolution of his skills as we work our way through this book (and the rest which I imagine we’ll all want to read unless this book goes horribly awry).
I just noticed a few times in the club house conversation that every couple of sentences someone was rolling their eyes. Non-verbal communication is fine, but it shouldnt’ be overused. I’m surprised his editor didn’t say…um, let’s cut back on that a bit.
We did start off right away with the action and I enjoyed that. I wonder if it possible for the book to go horribly awry. It seems that a lot of us are huge fans of him. I’m pretty sure I’ll be picking up the next one as soon as possible.
Funny I haven’t noticed the eye rolling. I’ll keep closer attention. I love how all of us have our things that we notice. Can you imagine trying to be an editor and picking up on all of it?
Ha ha, I loved your comment about the eye rolling! I also didn’t want to keep reading about Vin being abused and beaten by her boss so I was glad when Kelsier took care of that. I thought Kelsier got off to a pretty good start really and couldn’t help liking him – he started off by rescuing the girl on the plantation from certain death and then came alone to Vin’s aid. And, yes, he did have other motives with Vin but you could clearly feel his dislike for her treatment. It makes you immediately think of him as a hero! Which is good. I do wonder having learnt a little about his past why he’s always so cheerful?
This is a completely different writing style from what I’ve recently been reading and so far I’m enjoying the contrast very much.
Lynn 😀
I did like that part about rescuing the girl too, which made even more sense when you realized that he had lost a girl of his own. I don’t mind a hero with some swagger and some chivalry mixed in. And like you said it does make you immediately think of him as a hero even though he is actually quite a bad man himself. It is interesting to contrast him to Szeth in The Way of Kings who was also a very murderous fellow but one I had a hard time feeling much empathy for, especially as the story took shape.
I’m glad you are liking enjoying it, I’m really pleased with it thus far.
I am with you Lynn…why is Kelsier so cheerful (smiley) all the time? That is part of the intrigue for me, because I think there is something up with that…some reason. Kelsier does have hero characteristics but has not led a good life so I do wonder if maybe his character is a bit too good right now. But I do like him.
I think Grace came up with a good suggestion here in that Kelsier smiles all the time really as a form of rebellion. He is determined that he won’t be put down.
I quite like that.
Lynn 😀
Recently finishing up The Lies of Locke Lamora, I found Kelsier to be similar to Locke, if a bit less hardened and jaded.
I’ve read Warbringer and TWOK has been on my TBR pile for some time. In Warbringer and here, what I like is that the magic system is a powerful one, but it has rules and it each user has his or her own unique way to tap into it. It’s not everyone has the same power and can use it equally…and there appear to be consequences to using the magic system (so far, how much you use burns through the element required to tap into a particular magic).
It is fun seeing the comparisons/contrasts that those of you who just read Lies are making.
I’ve been very impressed with Sanderson’s magic systems thus far. Hopefully you can get to Way of Kings soon, it is an impressive book. Although we still have a long wait for book 2(of 10) so I guess there is no hurry. 🙂
I am glad that I started reading Way of Kings instead of waiting for the series to be complete. Gives me time to savor each book instead of feeling the need to plow through – not to mention that reading all books almost “at once” would probably be a bit too much if they all are huge tomes.
I’m also very curious about the quotations in the beginnings of each chapter. Based on the back cover, I’m assuming that they’re quotes from the last person who tried to rebel against the Lord Ruler, although I don’t know whether or not that’s the case. I did like the fact that the prologue tied directly to the rest of the story.
While I’d prefer that Vin wasn’t abused, I think that it was necessary both to show why she doesn’t trust people and to give Kelsier a chance to show the way that he cares about other people and fights against injustice. It adds another dimension to his character and gives us the impression that he’s inciting the revolution for a just cause and not just out of opportunism or revenge. He really does want to make life better for the skaa, and by saving the girl and disposing of Vin’s abuser he makes his position very clear.
I’m reading a hardback copy from the library which thankfully doesn’t have any back cover copy and other than the first paragraph I skipped the inside stuff too. Thought it would be fun to be completely in the dark going into this.
I’m with you on the prologue.
I agree, I think Vin’s storyline was necessary for the type of story he is trying to tell. I just get a bit leery because I’ve seen lots of physical and sexual abuse stuff in stories that seems to be bleed across the lines of being gratuitous. More and more I’m of the mind to chuck those books to the side when they get that way. I’m not overly concerned that Sanderson will go that route.
I think part of the reason why I didn’t mind the thing with Vin is because Sanderson is equally sadistic towards most of his characters. Vin still has it a lot better than poor Kaladin, lol, and as soon as she comes into her own she’ll be a force to be reckoned with. Sanderson also doesn’t seem to include much of any sexual content in his books, which I find very interesting.
I understand what you are saying about the tendency for some stories to be gratuitous towards abuse stuff, but for this story, I think Sanderson did a good job of it and it served a direct purpose in character development. I don’t think this will be ongoing in the story, but at the same time, I would not be surprised if we do see more of it just because of the seediness that can be found in a thieving society. Even so, I would be glad if we do not see more.
I got the feeling that the quotes were from the Lord Ruler: I assume he had to depose someone to take over and it would make for a nice cyclic irony if he had gone from idealistic rebel to oppressive megalomaniac! 🙂
It is certainly possible. I’ve learned not to overlook any possibility in books like this one.
I find it interesting that the quotes feel like they belong to both the Lord Ruler (as you suggest) and at the same time to a potential past rebel (as Grace suggests). There is something in the language that makes it hard to see the author as the same man as the Lord Ruler, but then I’m starting to see The Carpet Makers in the Lord Ruler, with the suggestion that his story is going to be complicated and more messy than what we know so far.
It wouldn’t surprise me if we find out later that the quotes are from someone we don’t suspect at all. I am really enjoying them thus far, and enjoying that mystery.
I get a feeling that we are going to get hints of history being cyclic and repetitive: the rebel becomes the oppressor who is overthrown by a new rebel, etc.
Maybe eyerolling is a cultural gesture, like The Bird, snort-laughing, or clicking of the tongue.
It gets my angst going whenever a less powerful being is unjustly beaten by a more powerful being – doesn’t have to be male on female. So by that same token, it was a little disturbing to see Kelsier’s callousness in dispatching various guards.
Yeah, I was thinking he was a bit harsh when he was dispatching the guards and it was as though Sanderson was expecting readers to feel like that because he then gave us an immediate insight into why Kelsier had no remorse about doing so – like he sees them as traitors – even so it still did seem a bit harsh, but, (going round and round in circles as usual) – I guessed once he’d made his move he was in a fight to the death situation maybe?
Lynn 😀
Seeing his attitude toward the guards when he’s normally so compassionate makes me wonder exactly what happened to him that made him snap.
Yes, and I suspect we’ll find out. Should be some great reading ahead.
You’re just too used to Locke Lamora and his gentle ways! This seems like a much more brutal world, so I don’t see how he could survive their lethal attacks without killing a few. I don’t get the impression that he is making any particular effort to finish off any that are only injured, so maybe he isn’t as bad as all that! 😀
I agree with Lynn in that I think he fought the guards in the way he knew he needed to or face defeat. I was not disturbed by these scenes at all. It made sense to me. But, I do wonder what happened in his past to make him harsh in these type of moments. I am very curious about his past.
It is, and that paradox is one of the things that makes reading these stories so interesting. We had the same thought processes when reading the Foundation trilogy earlier in the year. It is an interesting time of self-examination as well as examination of story when characters hover in the gray area.
Having read the trilogy (and thoroughly enjoying every bit of it), the opening paragraphs were one of my favorite things about the books. I look forward to reading your thoughts as you journey through this, and especially forward to any postulating. Enjoy the read!
I hope you keep checking in with us Logan!
I think that the differences between Vin and Kelsier, especially in the early parts of the novel, work well to advance both of their characters. They’re both interesting characters who grow a lot throughout the course of the novel.
A lot of people commented about Vin’s abuse, I can see why many people don’t care for reading about it, but it really was used to shape her character. I think it also helps that he never goes into detail talking about exactly what happened at any given time, he is simply making references to show how hard her life has been.
I also really like the little chapter intros. It’s interesting to see how they work with the overall story. I also like the fact that he kept them going through all three books of the series. I don’t like it when authors change the form of a book or series halfway through.
Its probably killing you to hold back, isn’t it Adam, since you’ve read this already. I’m glad you are doing so though and appreciate you coming along with us again.
I’m happy to hear that the characters continue to grow. That was my expectation from reading WoK, but as this is an earlier book you never know.
Also glad to hear the intros keep going. As I said I am a fan of that kind of thing, have been since my late teens, early 20’s. Funny how many books I’ve read this last year that have that structure. Certainly wasn’t intentional, but I’ve enjoyed it.
I’m not an experienced fantasy reader, my preferences leaning more toward English writers of mystery or family sagas or books incorporating English history, especially late 19th and early 20th centuries. (However, I would read the back of a cereal box if I had nothing else to read.) I think it’s because I connect fantasy with science fiction which, for the most part, leaves me cold. The only science fiction I’ve enjoyed has been stories that take place on terra firma, not out in space somewhere, even though the threat may come from there — John Wyndham’s The Day of the Triffids, John Blackburn’s The Scent of New-Mown Hay, Jack Finney’s Invasion of the Body Snatchers, etc. Nevertheless, I am enjoying Sanderson’s book and think it will encourage me to read more of this genre and would appreciate some recommendations. With all the violence expressed so far, I still feel sympathetic toward the author and get the feeling he is really a sentimentalist at heart.
I would certainly recommend getting on board with The Way of Kings, the first in Sanderson’s latest series, as it is an amazing book.
Would love to have you join us for the Neverwhere group read by Gaiman after this one ends. It is a much shorter book and a different kind of fantasy, but still very accessible and very enjoyable.
If you enjoy Invasion, you really should read Jack Finney’s book, Time and Again. It is very much a historical novel with a tiny bit of time travel thrown in. It is WONDERFUL.
Patrick Rothfuss’ trilogy, starting with The Name of the Wind, is a really good fantasy series that is in the same vein with Sanderson though it has its own creative spins.
Thanks so much for your recommendations! I’ll put them on my wish list.
No problem, hopefully others will come up with some. I haven’t read an inordinate amount of fantasy myself. I really enjoy the novels of Patricia A. McKillip (another recommendation), and Lord of the Rings is a favorite but I figured that is one you’ve at least heard of and either have a desire or have no desire to read, lol!
I’ve read good things about McKillip and will dip into her books. Tried to read Lord of the Rings many moons ago but got bogged down before finishing and would like to give it another go. Good thing I’m retired and won’t have work to interfere with the more important stuff like reading lol.
I was a fan because of the films and I bogged down in Fellowship the first time I read it. But last year when I tried it again I was swept up by it. Completely and totally engrossed. I think sometimes there is just a “right” time for books.
Hi Charlotte,
Another good author (although I’ve only read one of her books!) is Robin McKinley – she seems to be coming up a lot on Carl’s OUaT none challenge and the other suggested author that I recently received was Charles de Lint – not read any of those books yet either but do like the sound of them.
Lynn 😀
What? Another group read and a Gaiman book at that? Whoa. When exactly? I have yet to read Neverwhere and would like to do so.
The details will be going up Monday or Tuesday next week. 🙂
I’m not reading the Q&A and comments now, because I do want to read these books and don’t want spoilers. I just wanted to say that the illustration you show today is the cover of the first volume in the boxed set I have.
I don’t blame you, Richard. I almost bought that same boxed set in anticipation of this group read, but, like you, I am trying to be better about how much I buy. So it was off to the library. Which I don’t mind in the least. It is fun knowing others have read this volume before me. I wonder what they thought of it?
So far, it seems I am in a minority of one with my struggles at the beginning of the book. I was genuinely surprised, because I read a lot of different genres and don’t normally have a problem getting in to fantasy titles. I guess sometimes it is something about the writer’s voice that jars slightly, because I am thoroughly enjoying it now.
WRT Vin’s abuse, I am totally repelled by the thought of it, but I think it is a suitable back-story given the environment in which she was living. I can’t wait to see her make Breeze dance for her! 😀
Nothing wrong with being in the minority. I’m glad that you got into it though and are enjoying it at present.
Sue, I read just 28 pages before I set it down, and finally put it back on the shelf, so you’re not alone.
So I’m a little late to the party, but I made it!
It was interesting to see your responses about how the book compares with The Way of Kings, since I haven’t actually read it yet (I know I know, but I’m currently using the hardcover to keep my car from rolling down the driveaway….yes, that’s a joke).
Hey, I wouldn’t have read Way of Kings if it wasn’t for the group read. I generally run away screaming from 1000+ page books. But once I started I was SO glad that I was reading it. Excellent book.
Glad you’re liking it thus far! I don’t have a physical copy of the book, so I’m not exactly sure which parts you’ve read, but Vin and Kelsier have at least met, so I know you’re that far in. The story really starts to take more shape after that, I think. Not that it didn’t have any shape before, but you’re right, there’s a lot of simply-shown world-building that doens’t quite tell you everything right away. I liked that – it helped me get invested in the characters without bogging me down with too many details about the world they’re in. I am particularly anxious to go back and reread the book now that I’m through two books in the series, to see what hints about the whole world I pick up from the beginning.
I listened to both the first two books on audio, and then because I listened to the second one way too fast, I just finished rereading it in print. I didn’t notice the eyerolling in the audio version, but I *did* notice it in print. It didn’t bother me, but just wanted to forewarn you that it does continue. 😀
You are exactly right, this way of slowly unveiling details does help keep the focus on the characters and helps the reader get invested in them early.
I don’t recall reading any “eye rolling” in The Way of Kings so I’m not sure why it stands out so much to me here. It is probably something I shouldn’t have mentioned as now everyone, including myself, will be noticing it through the rest of the read. LOL!
Excellent to have you along with us Amanda. I’ll add you to the question email list.
I’m a little late to the comment thread, and consequently won’t have much original to add to the ramble.
The Q&A definitely stirred some thoughts for me though, so i am going to add irregardless of the lack of new content.
First, the opening sequence rang of WOK to me, as many have pointed to. It appears a nice way to open a story and expose you to a large slice of the world without having the awful voiceover that starts… “In the world, rebellion has been quelled and the Lord Ruler’s reign now pushes beyond a thousand years… Our hero…” and so on. Compared to WOK it feels smaller in scope. We are seeing fewer characters and less intrigue. Considering this is an earlier work and (theoretically) a shorter work, it makes sense that it has less scope in its view. The introduction of allomancy, showing a structured system that is more reminiscent of “scientific” work than the more traditional D&D magick, brought to mind the introduction of Szeth. We have no idea what either system of magic is capable of but they both grab hold of the imagination and get the reader to begin wondering what is possible with allomancy/lashing. Overall I can see the same framework in Mistborn and WOK helping to establish a world and familiarize the reader with enough of that world that they are intrigued without either becoming lost or having to confront the dry overly informative introduction we have all come to rue.
A second point that seems to have caught some attention in the thread is the beatings of Vin. I’m disturbed by the beatings by the crewboss as well as what is being suggested that she was also mistreated by her brother. The beatings themselves are par for the course in this kind of literature, just as we will see swordfighting (i suppose) and death by magic (allomancy). What caught me more off-guard is the acceptance Vin seems to have towards the violence and even love/respect in spite of them. I’m not a big fan of domestic violence and co-dependence in real life and find it even more unsettling in my leisure time reading (Martin is a great example of how this can make high-fantasy a little too close to reality).
Overall Mistborn is definitely connecting with my fantasy-geek. Reading it is stirring memory from reading Tolkien for the first time and the introduction of Weis and Hickman or Salvatore. I can now understand how Brandon was picked to step into the WOT after Jordan passed, very different styles, but from this you can see that Sanderson is able to manage fantasy and large scopes.
I too see a similarity in structure between WOK and this one and I’m happy for it as I’m really liking that structure. I agree with you that thus far this one feels smaller (which I realize is not a criticism) in scope to WOK which is also nice. I like having limited characters and being able to focus on them. The intrigue thus far is fantastic.
I enjoy that this type of magic system has its limitations and requires a degree of foresight and planning, at least in the sense that you need to have access to the alloys needed to be at the top of your game.
You’ve captured my feelings about the beatings perfectly Sean. That is exactly the point I was trying to get across but didn’t quite manage. I’m not criticizing saying Sanderson should not have included this as it does make for an interesting back story, but just felt the need to point out that this kind of thing does manage to disturb when it is part of a medium used for entertainment.
Looks like I need to add The Way of Kings to may already bulging TBR list! 😀
You should, especially because then you could join the gang when the next book comes out in 2013 as we group read that one.
Deal! 🙂
Yes!!!
1. This first hundred or so pages was packed! What things are standing out for you in the story thus far?
I am loving this book! I had no idea what was in store for this story as I typically do not read back cover blurbs before reading, and I don’t recall ever doing so for this book. There were two things I did know – 1. It was written by Brandon Sanderson, and after reading The Way of Kings, I am very much in the Sanderson bandwagon. So, I had great hopes for a well written and intriguing story. 2. Mistborn is raved about in the fantasy reading community. So, I am thinking, it must be good.
Mistborn is meeting my expectations for a fabulous intriguing story. It feels familiar and I credit that to Sanderson’s writing. I mean, how could his writing not feel familiar after spending about 2 months of reading 1004 pages of his work (The Way of Kings). Yes, it is hard not to compare the two – Mistborn and WOK. Also, the story feels a bit like Lies of Locke in the sense of thieving and how Kelsier’s group of thieves are like family as like Lamora’s group. Beyond that though, there is not much similar.
The opening diary entries for the chapter openings are fascinating and intriguing. Is this something Sanderson does with all his books? I am very curious as to who is making these entries. Does anyone – who has not already read this book – know or have an idea?
The Allomancy is absolutely fascinating. I am greatly enjoying how Sanderson is revealing the workings of this magic system.
2. What are your thoughts on the magic system that Sanderson is unveiling in this novel?
At first, the Allomancy was confusing, and some level it still is. It took a leap of faith, so-to-speak, to allow myself to believe in these powers. My concern, early on, was that it may be haphazard and not make sense, or be conveniently used to get a character out of trouble. As the story progress and the Allomancy is unveiled, I am seeing it as an intricate system that does indeed follow rules. I am excited to learn right along with Vin about the laws of Allomancy. This magic system is working for me.
3. Kelsier and Vin have held most of the spotlight in these first 6 chapters. As you compare/contrast the two characters, how do you feel about them? Likes? Dislikes?
I like them both, very much. Kelsier is ceetainly very confident of his skills and knowledge yet he is also very respectful towards those in his group. He is a good leader. I do worry, slightly, something will happen to him just because he is so confident. I know thatni am attached to this character because of that worry. Vin intrigued right from the start. She is intelligent and quite impressive considering how she has been treated in life. I have great hopes for her character. I really like how Kelsier took her under his wing. Of course, she is an assets for him, but what speaks greatly for him is that he is giving her choice, and knowledge and information. He is not pushing her around.
It is going to be interesting to see where the story takes these two characters.
4. Finally, how would you assess Sanderson’s storytelling abilities to this point?
Sanderson has excellent storytelling capabilities. I love his societies, and how creates and reveals them to the reader. I have gained a nice sense of the world – the landscape, etc. His characters are well written with many layers that are revealed bit by bit as the story progresses. They are not one dimensional. What is absolutely fabulous is his ability to smoothly weave these two facets together – characters and world.
I was on the Sanderson bandwagon before starting this book, and it seems – 8 chapters in – that not only will I remain on the bandwagon but will also become a Sanderson Champion….shall see if this true upon completeion of this book.
—————
a few things….
Carl – I noted the eye-rolling once but not more than that per memory. It must have stood out for me to even remember the once, but I don’t recall feeling annoyed.
Character names – I like his choices especially Vin. I do like the name Kelsier but must admit that I think of Kaiser ( as in the roll) and alka seltzer comes to mind almost every time I read his name.that does not annoy me, but I am finding it interesting that my mind is doing this. I think it may be due to how I pronounce the name in my head which is quite similar to the seltzer sound.
I just finished reading through chapter 8 today. My reading time was limited this week. Sorry about my late arrival to the discussion. Hopefully I will be prompt next week.
I am going to now make my way through the other participant’s blog posts.
I don’t mind that you are late, I’m glad you are participating with us.
Ah, Kaiser roll! Not sure I’m glad you shared that, now I’m going to be thinking it!!! I do like the shortened “Kel” and I really like “Vin” too. Cool name.
I’ve got to get a bunch of it read this weekend. I didn’t get much read this week again.
I’m really digging this one too. I certainly considered myself a Sanderson fan after falling so hard for The Way of Kings, and this one is living up to expectations thus far.
I think we know from experience that Sanderson is going to make sure that his magic system follows rules and I bet the more we read the more it will all make sense to us.
I’m with you in being really sold on both characters even with this small taste of what we’ve had from them. I cannot wait to see where the journey takes each of them, individually and in their partnership.
I am terrible at read-alongs. I read the required pages and then didn’t post! Next week I must based on all the comments I just read through…
Hope you can, Kailana, but I completely understand. Sometimes….a lot of times…I have trouble even keeping up with the time frames on the ones I host myself. LOL!
Sorry I’m late to the discussion. At least I got my post up on time! Anyway, most of my thoughts seem to be pretty common ones on this one. I do think that the quotes might actually be from the future and they’ll tie in and be the story at the end of the series. I’m kind of hoping for that anyway — tastes of things to come?
I’ve started the next reading today and might finish it tonight because I’m so caught up in the story. I’m so glad I joined in!
I’m with you in thinking the quotes are from the future. I need to do a bunch of reading tonight/tomorrow to get up to speed with this week’s reading so that I can be ready for next week’s questions from TBM.
It’s been rather interesting going through the Mistborn book again. It’s a re-read for me, so I have to be a little bit careful about what I say and there are some conversations I don’t want to jump in on for fear of spoiling something. (i.e., the quotations with mark the beginning of most of the chapters.)
Still! Late as it is, Part 1 is up. I’ve just finished reading the required section for Part 2 as well and I’m now tossing up whether to sleep and write in the morning, or write now and sleep in the morning! 😉
I’m enjoying it though; just can’t wait to catch up! I think I should be able to be ready for the coming Wednesday’s section. 🙂