The Well of Ascension (Mistborn #2) by Brandon Sanderson
- Publisher: Tor Books, 2008
- Genre: Fantasy
- Format: Mass-Market Paperback
- Page Count: 781 pages
- My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Lord Ruler, the one whom people in the Final Empire regarded as God, was dead, slain by Mistborn Vin. By overthrowing Lord Ruler, Kelsier’s crew hoped to create a better world for skaas. However, they were troubled by the increasing problem of providing enough food, for the mists were coming out not only at night but also during daylight, and also under siege of three armies. The crew struggled to figure out how to survive their enemies, build a stable empire, and understand legends. With an imposter of a kandra somewhere within them, the story becomes even more complicated.
After finishing the first book, Mistborn, I continued reading The Well of Ascension and was not at all disappointed.
The first book was full of adventures and excitement, with street urchin Vin rescued by Kelsier, learning more and more about both her powers as a Mistborn and trust of people. This one, however, is more intense in trickery. Trickeries and distrust of former friends, enemies, and unknown powers, it seemed like in the post-Lord Ruler era, the challenge of surviving became even greater. While relationships of all sorts were strained, including Vin and King Elend’s due to the intervening of another powerful Mistborn Zane, the intuitive trust the members of Kelsier’s crew still have for each other made them stand strong against the siege and uncertainties in the empire.
‘You must love him enough to trust his wishes, even if you disagree with them.’ (Sazed)
Relationships between characters were very engrossing, and I really enjoyed the fact that these are dealt with throughout the story and yet never overshadowed the fantasy elements. Also, the reader get to experience the making of a king as Terriswoman Tindwyl gave important lessons to Elend. Most of the characters were straightforward and blunt enough to feel real and interesting. The biggest flaw of the book, though, might be at the closing of the book, where I think the storyline sort of lost control. Still, it was generally a wonderful story and the plots were amazingly absorbing.
‘You have to feel confident that your actions are the best.’ (Tindwyl)
A bit of a difficult read for emotions, The Well of Ascension is quite a dark book, yet thrilling in its own way. [15 Mar 2018]
