A review by kaitlynstoneheart
The Well of Ascension by Brandon Sanderson

adventurous medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I really enjoyed Book 1, the final empire, so naturally I wanted to read this book. In book 1 the relationship/romance aspect wasn't as heavy as it tried to be in book 2. I have to admit I felt zero chemistry between the love interests. I never felt convinced or invested in making sure their relationship works which made the ending lack the punch I wish it could have had.

Romance plot aside, looking at this from a strictly fantasy lens, I loved it. The world is so rich and interesting. Learning more about the other creatures, more about Allomancy and Feurochemy and more about the religions and prophecies were the best parts of the story. 

This story has just confirmed with my that for myself romance in fantasy needs to be all or nothing. It needs to be intense or it needs to not have any stake in the overall plot.