*The Final Empire* is a political high fantasy that offers a unique twist on the classic trope of ‘chosen one’ or ‘rags to riches’ (sort of) narratives. This is my first Sanderson novel, and it wasn’t quite what I was expecting.

Initially, I found this book to be an incrediblyyyyy slow start, to the point where I almost gave up at at 25% because I just wasn’t gripped. I found myself reading without much interest in where the story was headed, but pushed through because I promised a friend I’d give it a go.

Ultimately, I’m glad I stuck with it, though this isn’t my favorite fantasy read. I was surprised by how much this book read like YA fantasy compared to my expectations. The simplicity of the syntax and dialogue made it an easy read, albeit a slow one.

Sanderson’s allomantic magic system is unlike any other I’ve read, and while at first I struggled to keep track of which elements allowed for which actions, once I gained a good grasp, his writing of action scenes became even more impressive. He has an incredible grasp on his own magical system and that really shines through in his writing - the Mistborn scene’s in particular.

There were, however, a few things that didn’t really work for me in this book.

Spoiler

Firstly, I wanted more character depth from Vin. She had three moods - distrustful and reluctant participant, enamored by life as a noblewoman, and powerful Mistborn who is ready to challenge the Lord Ruler. Given how many times it was mentioned that she had raw Mistborn talent, I really feel like we should have seen more of Vin in action as a Mistborn, and a little less of her at balls and worrying about Eland.

Next, I really could have done without the “romantic” subplot entirely. The chemistry between Elland and Vin felt one-sided, with Vin’s feelings driving the supposed romance. Elland’s sudden change of allegiance “for her” didn’t work for me, ad I think their relationship could have been portrayed more plausibly as friendship. Given how little interaction the two really had on the page, their dynamic just felt inauthentic and unrealistic to who those characters are.

Lastly, I wanted so much more from Sazed’s character. Considering what we discover about the Lord Ruler’s abilities as both an allomancer and a feruchemist, I would have appreciated a deeper exploration of the Terrismen and their Keeper and feruchemical practices. By the end of the novel, I felt somewhat unsure how the Lord Ruler’s powers really worked.

Overall not a bad read, but I’m certainly not itching to read the rest of the series.