4.09 AVERAGE

adventurous

Vibes: 5⭐
Plot: 4.75⭐
World building: 4.5⭐
Characters: 5⭐
Spice: n/a

I enjoyed this so much. It's so fun to be back into the world of Mistborn but for it all to be a different world! I love the few references back to era 1 but I would have loved more information and world building around the time between. 

Characters are fun and there is some real comedic relief in there. I love the idea of twin born and am really looking forwards to getting back into the world more fully over the coming books! 
adventurous medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous dark emotional funny lighthearted mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous funny fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: N/A

Brandon Sanderson’s The Alloy of Law is a thrilling leap back into the Mistborn universe, now set in a steampunk-inspired, industrial era roughly 300 years after the original trilogy. This standalone novel (the first in the Wax and Wayne series) blends the gritty charm of a Western with Sanderson’s signature magic systems and world-building prowess, delivering a fast-paced, action-packed story that’s both accessible to newcomers and rewarding for Mistborn veterans.The story follows Waxillium Ladrian, a nobleman and skilled Allomancer, who returns to the city of Elendel after years as a lawman in the Roughs. Forced to navigate high society and family obligations, Wax is soon drawn into a series of mysterious crimes alongside his witty partner, Wayne, and the scholarly Marasi. The trio’s chemistry is a highlight, with Wayne’s humor and Marasi’s intelligence complementing Wax’s gruff heroism. Sanderson excels at crafting dynamic dialogue and banter that keeps the pages turning.The world feels alive, with its evolving technology (guns, trains, and early electricity) seamlessly integrated into the familiar Allomancy and Feruchemy magic systems. The action sequences are cinematic, leveraging the “push and pull” mechanics of Allomancy for creative, gravity-defying gunfights. Sanderson’s knack for tight plotting shines, as mysteries unravel with satisfying twists, though the villain’s motivations feel slightly underdeveloped compared to the depth of the protagonists.At roughly 330 pages, the book is shorter than Sanderson’s typical epics, making it a breezy read, but this brevity occasionally limits the scope of the political and social themes introduced. The shift from the original trilogy’s high fantasy to a more grounded, urban setting might jar some fans, but it’s a refreshing reinvention that sets the stage for the Wax and Wayne series.Overall, The Alloy of Law is a delightful mix of mystery, magic, and mayhem. It’s not quite as ambitious as Sanderson’s grander works, but its sharp pacing, engaging characters, and inventive world make it a worthy addition to the Mistborn saga. Perfect for readers craving a fun, accessible fantasy with a unique flavor.

Pros:Compelling characters and banter
Creative magic-driven action
Fresh steampunk-Western vibe

Cons:Villain lacks depth
Smaller scope may disappoint epic fantasy fans
Recommended for Mistborn fans and newcomers alike who enjoy fast-paced, imaginative stories.
adventurous lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
adventurous emotional funny mysterious tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
adventurous funny lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

wiihl's review

3.0
fast-paced