I know. It's some of the best epic fantasy out there. I should have read it years ago. My only excuse is that I am easily distracted by shiny books.
Yeah. So are you.
Thankfully, Stainless Steel Droppings provided the incentive to read Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson. Said blogger also kicked us off with this week's questions, which cover the first 6 chapters of the book.
I flew through these chapters and had to make a will-powered decision to not read the whole book in a few sittings.
Here are the questions and my answers. Stop over at Stainless Steel Droppings to see his answers and links to other participants.
1. This first hundred or so pages was packed! What things are standing out for you in the story thus far?
The ash. Ash gets everywhere. These folks must have awesome lungs to cope with the ash 24/7. And great tear ducts.
2. What are your thoughts on the magic system that Sanderson is unveiling in this novel?
I have only read 1 Sanderson book, The Way of Kings. The metal magic system in this novel reminds me of the magic system employed by the assassin in The Way of Kings - the pushing and pulling. A bit different mechanism, lots of the same results. I like it - not a criticism - and I look forward to seeing some training accidents with Vin.
3. Kelsier and Vin have held most of the spotlight in these first 6 chapters. As you compare/contrast the two characters, how do you feel about them? Likes? Dislikes?
Kelsier is very goal-oriented and would do well in modern stock market. Ruthless. Vin on the other hand is also out for herself - in a different way. She doesn't necessarily want to screw anyone over, but she is ready to flee at the next ashfall. I like how she was setting flatbread aside.
4. Finally, how would you assess Sanderson's storytelling abilities to this point?
He just sucks you in, doesn't he? Who cares if I got goats birthing in the field, I want to read my damn book!
Other thoughts:
The different metals can be used for different powers - this is way cool.
Kelsier has a soft spot for women in trouble - may turn annoying. We'll have to see if his chivalry is just overprotective chauvinism.
Way curious about Marsh. He seems pretty pissed about the whole situation.
I am guessing those little bits before each chapter are important. Perhaps the future voice of Vin?
