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.