Elantris by Brandon Sanderson

This isn’t what I was expecting going in. I read Emperor’s Soul last year and really enjoyed it, but this has a very different feel to it. I know they’re only vaguely related and Elantris is considerably longer but I probably wouldn’t have connected them unless I knew. That, however, did not in any way detract from my enjoyment of Elantris. It’s full of intrigue, both personal, political and even magical, and the differing POVs add so many layers to this story. It also offers a very subtle romantic storyline which I enjoyed quite a lot.

My Recommendation

If you like an epic fantasy, particularly focusing on politics then this is a great choice for you. There’s also a really good mystery element running through it too and lots of near-misses that will have you yelling at the characters!

Not For Everyone

It is 615 pages long. That’s not for the faint hearted. It also introduces a complex system of magic, and religion, that requires a glossary.

To The Author

You have a real feel for characters. I particularly appreciate the fact that your characters have flaws. No one is perfect, they each have their faults. It makes them more real and gives you someone realistic to root for.

If You’ve Never Read The Book And Want To Say You Have

Dead people are gods. Monks are demons. Women are powerful.

Academic Prompts

How religion and politics interact

Societies aversion to tall women