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The Well of Ascension

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007

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Book Brief

Brandon Sanderson

The Well of Ascension

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

781

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Luthadel • Fantasy World

Publication Year

2007

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

The Well of Ascension, the second book in Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn series, follows individuals struggling to stabilize a kingdom after its tyrant's fall. Amid political intrigue and emerging threats, people seek a mysterious power that could alter their world's fate.

Suspenseful

Challenging

Mysterious

Dark

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Well of Ascension by Brandon Sanderson captivates with its intricate world-building and complex characters. The novel's pacing and frequent political machinations sometimes slow the plot, yet the engaging mythology and character development outweigh these issues. Overall, it’s a compelling read for fantasy enthusiasts seeking depth and nuance.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Well of Ascension?

A reader who would enjoy Brandon Sanderson's The Well of Ascension typically appreciates epic fantasy with intricate world-building, complex characters, and political intrigue. Fans of George R.R. Martin's A Game of Thrones or Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time series will find similar enjoyment in this novel.

Character List

Vin

A powerful Allomancer and central character, Vin struggles with her identity as a leader, balancing her past as a street urchin with the demands of her new role.

A political leader and Vin’s love interest, Elend grapples with the challenge of remaining true to his ideals in the face of political turmoil.

A shape-shifting kandra serving the Venture family, whose evolving relationship with Vin explores themes of loyalty and autonomy.

A Terris Keeper and scholar dedicated to preserving knowledge, who battles with the weight of his responsibilities in a world of chaos.

A scholar assisting Elend, Tindwyl provides a pragmatic perspective on leadership and helps Sazed navigate his personal and intellectual conflicts.

A former soldier in the crew, steadfast in supporting Elend’s vision of equality and freedom.

The crew’s manager, who harbors doubts about the new leadership but remains loyal to the revolutionary cause.

A Soother known for his manipulative skills, whose personal journey reveals deeper loyalty to the crew.

The youngest crew member, who gains confidence and purpose throughout the narrative.

A practical and loyal ex-soldier, offering a grounded perspective within the crew.

A ruthless and manipulative noble, focused on reclaiming power through cold calculation and violence.

Straff’s son, who struggles with his father’s expectations and seeks his own path to leadership.

A nobleman driven by self-preservation and ambition to gain control of Luthadel, without ethical restraints.

Cett’s daughter, who shows political awareness and adaptability despite appearances, navigating the complex power dynamics.

Book Details
Pages

781

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Luthadel • Fantasy World

Publication Year

2007

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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