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Cover of The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson

Book 1 in Mistborn (The Original Trilogy)

The Final Empire

by Brandon Sanderson

672 pages

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Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson introduces Vin and Kelsier as they lead a rebellion against the immortal Lord Ruler in a world of ash, oppression, and Allomantic magic.

Mistborn (The Original Trilogy) series tropes

Tagged on the series as a whole, so not every book will feature each one.

About the book

Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson is the first novel in the Mistborn Trilogy (Era 1), a gripping epic fantasy story that blends rebellion, innovative magic, and deep character development. Set in a world shrouded in ash and ruled with tyranny by the immortal Lord Ruler, the novel follows Vin, a street urchin with untapped magical potential, and Kelsier, the daring leader of a daring revolutionary group.

Vin discovers she is a Mistborn, capable of using Allomancy—a unique magical system that allows her to ingest and “burn” metals to gain extraordinary abilities. Under Kelsier’s mentorship, she learns to harness her powers while navigating the treacherous politics and dangers of the Final Empire. Together, they plan an audacious heist and rebellion to overthrow the Lord Ruler’s centuries-long oppression.

Sanderson excels at combining high-stakes action with rich worldbuilding and nuanced characters. The novel explores themes of trust, loyalty, identity, and sacrifice, while examining the consequences of power and the moral complexities of rebellion. Vin’s journey from a frightened street thief to a confident and powerful Mistborn is emotionally compelling and inspiring.

Mistborn: The Final Empire features popular fantasy tropes such as chosen heroes, hidden powers, tyrannical rulers, rebellion against oppression, secret societies, and morally grey characters. The story is full of twists, heists, and magical duels that keep readers engaged while delivering a deeply immersive fantasy experience.

Ideal for fans of epic fantasy, morally complex characters, and inventive magic systems, Mistborn: The Final Empire sets the stage for the rest of the Mistborn Trilogy and introduces readers to the larger Cosmere universe.

Mistborn (The Original Trilogy) reading order

Full reading order

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About The Final Empire

Who wrote The Final Empire?
The Final Empire was written by Brandon Sanderson.
Is The Final Empire part of a series?
Yes. The Final Empire is book 1 in the Mistborn (The Original Trilogy) series, and it is the best place to start reading the series.
How many pages is The Final Empire?
The Final Empire is 672 pages long.
What books are similar to The Final Empire?
If you enjoyed The Final Empire, readers also recommend The Black Prism, Unbound, A Time of Courage and Six of Crows.

About Brandon Sanderson

New York Times bestselling author of 45+ million books worldwide. Creator of the Cosmere universe, master of intricate magic systems, and architect of epic fantasy sagas including Mistborn and The Stormlight Archive. Hugo Award winner.

Books, series and tropes by Brandon Sanderson

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