Secret History - Book Summary
Mistborn: Secret History is a companion novella to Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn series, providing a behind-the-scenes look at key events from Mistborn: The Final Empire and its sequels, all through the perspective of Kelsier, the charismatic Mistborn who led the rebellion.
The story begins with Kelsier's death at the hands of the Lord Ruler, an event that occurs in The Final Empire. However, rather than moving on to the afterlife, Kelsier finds himself in the Cognitive Realm, a mysterious place that exists alongside the physical world. Here, he encounters Preservation, one of the two god-like forces that shape the world of Scadrial. Preservation informs Kelsier that, despite his death, he still has a role to play in the ongoing struggle against Ruin, the opposing force to Preservation.
Kelsier, ever resourceful and determined, refuses to accept his fate passively. He begins to explore the Cognitive Realm, seeking ways to influence the physical world and aid his friends and the rebellion. Along the way, Kelsier encounters various entities and beings, including other deceased individuals and the mysterious Ire, an ancient and powerful group with their own plans for the world.
As Kelsier navigates the Cognitive Realm, he witnesses events from the original Mistborn trilogy from a new perspective, providing readers with insights into the motivations and actions of key characters. He also learns more about the nature of the Shards, the god-like forces of Preservation and Ruin, and the cosmic struggle that underlies the events of the series.
One of the novella’s key revelations is the true nature of the Lord Ruler’s power and his connection to the Well of Ascension. Kelsier discovers that the Well is a reservoir of power left by Preservation, intended to be used to imprison Ruin. However, the Lord Ruler's decision to take the power for himself rather than release it has dire consequences for the world. Kelsier’s discovery of this information sets the stage for Vin’s eventual role in the story, as she becomes the one who must ultimately confront and resolve the conflict between Preservation and Ruin.
Kelsier’s journey also delves into his relationship with Preservation, who is slowly being consumed by Ruin. Despite Preservation’s warnings, Kelsier remains defiant and determined to continue fighting, even from beyond the grave. This defiance leads him to make a crucial decision: to take up Preservation’s power himself, even though it will trap him in the Cognitive Realm and prevent him from moving on.
The novella concludes with Kelsier's realization that his journey is far from over. Although he has been able to influence events in the physical world and provide guidance to Vin and others, he understands that the true battle against Ruin is only beginning. Kelsier resolves to continue his fight, even if it means existing as a disembodied spirit, watching over the world he once sought to free.
Mistborn: Secret History is a fascinating exploration of the Mistborn universe, offering fans a deeper understanding of the series’ mythology and Kelsier’s enduring role in the story. Sanderson’s use of the Cognitive Realm provides a unique lens through which to view familiar events, adding layers of depth and complexity to the original trilogy. The novella serves as both a bridge between the original Mistborn trilogy and the later books in the series, and as a standalone tale of adventure, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of hope in the face of overwhelming odds.
You said:
perfect - now shadows-of-self
ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
Mistborn: Shadows of Self by Brandon Sanderson is the second novel in the Wax and Wayne series, set in the same world as the original Mistborn trilogy but several centuries later. The world has evolved into a more modern society, with a blend of magic and technology shaping everyday life. The story continues to follow Waxillium Ladrian (Wax), a nobleman and lawman, as he grapples with the responsibilities of his position and the dark forces threatening the city of Elendel.
The novel begins with Wax still adjusting to his dual life as both a lord of House Ladrian and a lawman. His partner, Wayne, and his fiancée, Steris Harms, continue to support him as he navigates the complex social and political landscape of Elendel. The city is on the brink of unrest, with tensions rising between the noble houses, the working class, and the criminal underworld.
A series of brutal murders begins to shake the city, and Wax is called upon by the city's constabulary to investigate. These killings are unlike anything Wax has encountered before, as the murderer appears to have supernatural abilities, including the power to mimic the skills of the original Mistborn, something that should be impossible in this era. The investigation leads Wax into a web of conspiracy, where he uncovers a plot that could destabilize the entire city.
The novel introduces a new antagonist, Bleeder, a rogue kandra (a shape-shifting being) with a deep grudge against the ruling class and the god-like Harmony, who governs the world from afar. Bleeder's actions are driven by a desire to incite chaos and bring down the established order, and she possesses a terrifying ability to take on the appearance of anyone she kills. This makes her a particularly dangerous foe for Wax, as he struggles to uncover her true identity and stop her before she causes more destruction.
As Wax delves deeper into the mystery, he is forced to confront his own past, particularly the death of his first love, Lessie, and the impact it has had on his life. Bleeder’s actions begin to take a personal toll on Wax, pushing him to the brink as he questions his own beliefs and the justice he serves. The emotional weight of his past and the burden of his responsibilities make Wax a complex and compelling protagonist, as he grapples with both external threats and internal demons.
Wayne, Wax’s loyal and humorous companion, plays a significant role in the story, providing both comic relief and crucial support during their investigation. His unique abilities as a Twinborn (someone who has both Allomantic and Feruchemical powers) complement Wax's own skills, making them a formidable team. Steris, though less involved in the action, begins to show more depth as a character, revealing a keen intellect and a growing bond with Wax.
The story builds to a climactic confrontation between Wax and Bleeder, where the true nature of her plans and her motivations are revealed. The novel explores themes of identity, faith, and the consequences of power, as Wax must make difficult decisions that will affect not only his own life but the future of Elendel.
In the end, Shadows of Self leaves readers with a deeper understanding of the evolving world of Scadrial and the complex relationships between its characters. The novel blends the intrigue and action of a crime thriller with the rich world-building and magic that fans of the Mistborn series have come to expect. It sets the stage for further exploration of the political and spiritual conflicts that will shape the future of the series, while also providing a satisfying and thought-provoking continuation of Wax's story.