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A review by nincrony1
The Well of Ascension by Brandon Sanderson
adventurous
dark
emotional
tense
medium-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
4.5
I thought this was an excellent follow up to The Final Empire and a far stronger book overall, with better pacing and prose. I know this one is a bit divisive in the Sanderson fandom, which I sort of understand as it is more deliberately slow-spaced than the first book. But I think as an expansion of this world and themes, I thought The Well of Ascension did a great job. What does happen after the all-powerful Dark Lord, who has ruled a nation for a 1000 years, is defeated? How can a group of ragtag mis-matches try to rebuild the kingdom in the face of insurmountable odds and in the absence of their charismatic leader ?
The plot was more focused, setting up a clear situation the characters are stuck in and how they overcome it. I really enjoyed the expansion of Elend’s character and the struggles he faced to create a fair and just kingdom whilst also trying to balance his love life. Nearly every character gets a great expansion or arc, especially Sazed. Ironically I thought Vin’s arc was probably the least satisfying but it still sets things up nicely for the final book. Which I’m very much looking forward to!
The plot was more focused, setting up a clear situation the characters are stuck in and how they overcome it. I really enjoyed the expansion of Elend’s character and the struggles he faced to create a fair and just kingdom whilst also trying to balance his love life. Nearly every character gets a great expansion or arc, especially Sazed. Ironically I thought Vin’s arc was probably the least satisfying but it still sets things up nicely for the final book. Which I’m very much looking forward to!