Tag Archives: brandon sanderson

May 2 2026
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Book Review: Isles of the Emberdark by Brandon Sanderson

Title: Isles of the Emberdark

Author: Brandon Sanderson

Series: Secret Projects #5

Genre: Fantasy

Rating: 3/5 stars

The Overview: All his life, Sixth of the Dusk has been a traditional trapper of Aviar—the supernatural birds his people bond with—on the deadly island of Patji. Then one fateful night he propels his people into a race to modernize before they can be conquered by the Ones Above, invaders from the stars who want to exploit the Aviar. But it’s a race they’re losing, and Dusk fears his people will lose themselves in the effort. When a chance comes to sail into the expanse of the emberdark beyond a mystical portal, Dusk sets off to find his people’s salvation with only a canoe, his birds, and all the grit and canniness of a Patji trapper. Elsewhere in the emberdark is a young dragon chained in human Starling of the starship Dynamic. She and her ragtag crew of exiles are deep in debt and on the brink of losing their freedom. So when she finds an ancient map to a hidden portal between the emberdark and the physical realm, she seizes the chance at a lucrative discovery. These unlikely allies might just be the solution to each other’s crisis. In their search for independence, Dusk and Starling face perilous bargains, poisonous politics, and the destructive echo of a dead god. –Goodreads

The Review:

I wish I was about to give this a glowing review because I was SO excited for it… but even though I loved Sixth of Dusk, Emberdark didn’t quite land for me.

I think part of my problem may have been expectation. Based off of Sixth alone, I was expecting a story more akin to Tchaikovsky’s Cage of Souls (exotic jungle setting, amazing atmosphere, deadly encounters), but what I got instead was a story so out of left field, I wasn’t prepared for it. Another factor could have been the disjointed, gradual way I read this book. It was kind of my audiobook filler title for commutes and one I turned on to go to sleep to, which doesn’t really encourage a lot of engagement. But I have to wonder if I would’ve made it my main focus had I been enjoying it more in the first place.

It was really clever (and appreciated) how Sanderson incorporated the original short story into the novel. The creativity for all of the other components in the books was also off the charts. And for me even a Sanderson I’m not loving as much as his other books still gets a baseline good rating. But there are a few things I’d like to nitpick for a minute:

Pacing. Due to the inclusion of the short story, Sixth of Dusk, at the beginning of this novel as flashbacks (for which I just praised it) it took a long while for the story to get going. Then we had a decent clip for a while before it seemed to come to a crashing halt for a whole bunch of conversations and planning. And I swear the most drawn-out journey through a cave I’ve ever experienced (second only to Rhapsody by Elizabeth Haydon <-still loved). I’m being over-dramatic here, but it felt like 30% was at a standstill with no meaningful movement forward. Thank goodness the conversations were good (one scene of which was my favorite part of the entire book), else I may have started to get fed up with it. As it was, I just didn’t enjoy it as much as I should have. I did a Buddy Read of this with my Patrons and it seemed unanimous they thought the end portion of the book was solid.

I can’t abide a cackling villain. This character didn’t work for me at all. He didn’t seem realistic or particularly effective as a villain, and I got tired of the endless talking and threats without any apparent action. He felt more like a plot device than a fully realized character.

Those were pretty much my main complaints. I loved the birds – I wish we’d gotten more there. I was intrigued by Stirling and really can’t wait to see what sorts of effects she’s going to have on some of my very favorite Sanderson series in the future. And I loved the cameo from one of the Cosmere’s most notorious world-hoppers. I’d say overall I’m really glad I read this one, even though it didn’t give me anything close to what I was expecting.

Recommendations: This can be easily read without any knowledge of the Cosmere works, as it’s so far removed that it’s not going to spoil anything. But what little of the tie-ins I was able to spot (probably a fraction of what was actually there) made it a book dedicated Cosmere fans might get a lot out of. I mean, I’m a huge Cosmere fan too… yet I thought the implications cool but the actual story just okay… but I seem to be in the minority.

Thank you to my Patrons: Dave, Katrin, Frank, Jen, Karen, Sonja, Staci, Kat, Betsy, Eliss, Mike, Elizabeth, Bee, Poochtee, Kinsey, Alysa, Derek, Kelly, Grace, and Carmen! <3

Other books you might like:

by Niki Hawkes

Jan 12 2026
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Book Review: The Frugal Wizard’s Handbook to Surviving Medieval England by Brandon Sanderson

Title: The Frugal Wizard’s Handbook to Surviving Medieval England

Author: Brandon Sanderson

Series: Secret Projects #2

Genre: Fantasy

Rating: 3.5/5 stars

The Overview: A man awakes in a clearing in what appears to be medieval England with no memory of who he is, where he came from, or why he is there. Chased by a group from his own time, his sole hope for survival lies in regaining his missing memories, making allies among the locals, and perhaps even trusting in their superstitious boasts. His only help from the “real world” should have been a guidebook entitled The Frugal Wizard’s Handbook for Surviving Medieval England, except his copy exploded during transit. The few fragments he managed to save provide clues to his situation, but can he figure them out in time to survive? -Goodreads

The Review:

I had a lot more fun reading this book than I thought I would.

The basic premise was really nothing to write home about: a character-driven portal fantasy that had more to do with relationships and cheeky concepts than exciting plot points. 2/5 stars.

The presentation, however, is what made this book a delight! Fully illustrated entries out of the “real” handbook reference throughout the story, including several excerpts. Interesting, if not really my taste, full-color art pages. And the best part – doodle illustrations in the margins involving this little wizard guy as secondary story alongside the main one <- easily my favorite part of the book. 4/5 stars!

And finally, Cosmere implications. This book offers a lot of backstory into one of my favorite Sanderson characters. There were lots of really good nuggets of information here. But to be totally real with you, I am having a hard reconciling this character, who seems a high-strung, bumbling fool, with the shrewd, calculating character I’ve come to love in previous works. The two just read like totally different profiles to the point where I’m going to need to see some compelling growth arc storylines in future books to be convinced that this was the intended backstory for him all along. It’s great though – now I have additional motive to keep reading more Cosmere. 3/5 stars.

Overall, definitely not my favorite Sanderson, but one that I liked a lot more than I thought I would. Compared to his other Secret Projects it’s not highly recommendable, but if you’re going to read it, absolutely pick up a physical copy.

Thank you to my Patrons: Dave, Katrin, Frank, Jen, Sonja, Staci, Kat, Betsy, Eliss, Mike, Elizabeth, Bee, Tracey, Poochtee, Kinsey, Alysa, Derek, Kelly, Meabh! <3

Other books you might like:

by Niki Hawkes

Nov 3 2023
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Book Review: Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson

Title: Tress of the Emerald Sea

Author: Brandon Sanderson

Series: Secret Projects #1

Genre: Fantasy

Rating: 4.5/5 stars!

The Overview: The only life Tress has known on her island home in an emerald-green ocean has been a simple one, with the simple pleasures of collecting cups brought by sailors from faraway lands and listening to stories told by her friend Charlie. But when his father takes him on a voyage to find a bride and disaster strikes, Tress must stow away on a ship and seek the Sorceress of the deadly Midnight Sea. Amid the spore oceans where pirates abound, can Tress leave her simple life behind and make her own place sailing a sea where a single drop of water can mean instant death? -Goodreads

The Review:

I’ll admit I had to force myself to pick this one up. Don’t get me wrong, I love Sanderson and didn’t hesitate for a moment when backing the kickstarter, but something about this book made me hesitant to give it a try. I figured it was going to be an easy, lighthearted read (perhaps a bit dumb) that I’d give 3 stars to and move on.

I was NOT expecting a slam-dunk!

I immediately loved the magic system – seas of colored spores that explode (and other various reactions) when they come in contact with water. What a fun idea! And it was explored thoroughly throughout the book, giving me all of that nerdy Sanderson detail. But I was not really sure about the story until I hit the end. You see, whether the journey was worth the effort for me amounted to where he took it (destination before journey, in this case). And my fiends, he took it amazing. I love where it ended up – the complete unconventionality of several plot points all landing perfectly. I already want to reread it. And on top of all of that, it made me laugh.

Overall, I’m glad my initial impressions didn’t keep me from reading this. After being disappointed with the second Skyward book (my most recent read from him), I’m happy to feel excited about my next Sanderson again.

Recommendations: choose this for a light-hearted fantasy with lots of fun surprises!

Since we read this for Patreon Book Club, I thought it would be fun to include snippet reviews from some of my Patrons:

“Cosy Fantasy, but make it Sanderson-Style” -Sonja

“Tress sets out on a grand yet pressing adventure that not only changes her life but the lives of those she meets in this fun, clever and delightful book.” -Eliss

Other books you might like:

Warbreaker by Brandon Sanderson
Ship of Magic by Robin Hobb
Graceling by Kristin Cashore
Ship of Smoke and Steel by Django Wexler

by Niki Hawkes

Mar 5 2021
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Book Review: Rhythm of War by Brandon Sanderson

Title: Rhythm of War

Author: Brandon Sanderson

Series: Stormlight Archive #4

Genre: Fantasy

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

The Overview: After forming a coalition of human resistance against the enemy invasion, Dalinar Kholin and his Knights Radiant have spent a year fighting a protracted, brutal war. Neither side has gained anadvantage, and the threat of a betrayal by Dalinar’s crafty ally Taravangian looms over every strategic move.Now, as new technological discoveries by Navani Kholin’s scholars begin to change the face of the war, the enemy prepares a bold and dangerous operation. The arms race that follows will challenge the very core of the Radiant ideals, and potentially reveal the secrets of the ancient tower that was once the heart of their strength. At the same time that Kaladin Stormblessed must come to grips with his changing role within the Knights Radiant, his Windrunners face their own problem: As more and more deadly enemy Fused awaken to wage war, no more honorspren are willing to bond with humans to increase the number of Radiants. Adolin and Shallan must lead the coalition’s envoy to the honorspren stronghold of Lasting Integrity and either convince the spren to join the cause against the evil god Odium, or personally face the storm of failure. -Goodreads

The Review:

Rhythm of War was a satisfying addition to the series, offering a lot of cool new revelations. Not the least of which was finally learning how to properly spell “rhythm.”

I seriously can’t figure out how these 1000+ page books never feel as long as they are. Every page yields something of value and while I prefer some characters and settings to others, never once have I ever been bored while reading this series. Even on the reread! Probably even less so then. And that’s another thing – I almost never reread books (too many on my TBR to justify the time) but have zero compunctions reading these several times over in preparation for each new release. Considering how colossal they are, that’s a huge time commitment and should illustrate how much I love the series.

This novel felt more narrowly focused than the previous three. There weren’t a lot of new world discoveries and most of the story took place between only two different locations. I missed the adventure a little, but what it lacked in breadth it made up for in depth. It boasted more academic discoveries, particularly advancements and insights into fabrial construction and uses, which essentially meant we gained more knowledge on how the magic system of this world functions (more than in the previous three books combined). I ate up every moment, but I can see how those more drawn to the action scenes might not have enjoyed it as much. We also learned a lot more about the Spren and I love that even after everything Sanderson has revealed about them, they still seem enigmatic. It’s those kinds of gradual reveals/payoffs that keep me coming back for more.

I’ve read so many books that these days something really has to stand out for me to carry more than a vague imprint on what the story was about. And names? Forget names. At least, I do even while I’m actively reading a book (my brain takes a general impression of each name enough to tell the characters apart and that seems to suffice). But this series is different. I recall the tiniest details. I remember even minor characters names. I feel a connection to the characters (rare, indeed). My mom joked that it’s probably only because of the large page count, which no doubt helps, but I think it’s also that they sing to me on another level and I actually want to carry them with me beyond the pages. All the characters are interesting and fun to read about. And it’s surprising to me how much I value them considering they’ve always lacked a bit of complexity and depth. You get what you see with Sanderson’s characters, with just enough profile exploration to balance all the other elements he does so well. Somehow, it just works.

All that said, this was probably my least favorite so far (not by much) because I was missing a bit of that exploratory appeal even though it made up for it considerably with its academic focus. And is it just me, or did the writing feel a little rushed? Like things weren’t quite as flushed out or detailed as they used to be? Even so, I loved all of the revelations, and there were a few key scenes that still have me reeling. I can’t wait to see how the first arc of the series wraps up in the next installment.

Recommendations: among my top three series, this is definitely a must-read for fans of the fantasy genre.

Other books you might like:

by Niki Hawkes

Mar 2 2021
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Novella Review: Dawnshard by Brandon Sanderson

Dawnshard by Brandon Sanderson

Title: Dawnshard

Author: Brandon Sanderson

Series: Stormlight Archive #3.5

Genre: Fantasy

Rating: 4.5/5 stars!

The Overview: When a ghost ship is discovered, its crew presumed dead after trying to reach the storm-shrouded island Akinah, Navani Kholin must send an expedition to make sure the island hasn’t fallen into enemy hands. Knights Radiant who fly too near find their Stormlight suddenly drained, so the voyage must be by sea. Shipowner Rysn Ftori lost the use of her legs but gained the companionship of Chiri-Chiri, a Stormlight-ingesting winged larkin, a species once thought extinct. Now Rysn’s pet is ill, and any hope for Chiri-Chiri’s recovery can be found only at the ancestral home of the larkin: Akinah. With the help of Lopen, the formerly one-armed Windrunner, Rysn must accept Navani’s quest and sail into the perilous storm from which no one has returned alive. If the crew cannot uncover the secrets of the hidden island city before the wrath of its ancient guardians falls upon them, the fate of Roshar and the entire Cosmere hangs in the balance. –Goodreads

The Review:

Stormlight Archive fans: this novella is totally worth your time!

And so far it’s one of my favorite tangents to date. Following one of my favorite tangent characters to date: Rysn. I must love books that take place on the high seas because I seem to enjoy all of them. Maybe it’s the sense of adventure and discovery they offer. The excitement of facing the unknown. In this case the adventure was to a storm-shrouded island, the discovery was everything on said island (and a bunch of technological revelations along the way), and the many unknowns of this world in general are what keep me eagerly coming back for more. I want to know what else has been lurking around this series that I haven’t noticed yet. I love how much depth Sanderson has already built into Roshar, and I’d be willing to bet we’ve only just scratched the surface. World-building is one of the things I value most in books, and this one had so many cool additions. All in a very satisfyingly short number of pages. I can’t wait to see how it all ties in to the series as a whole. Also, I would like a pet Chiri-Chiri.

Recommendations: read it.

Other books you might like:

by Niki Hawkes

Mar 5 2020
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Book Review: Starsight by Brandon Sanderson

Starsight by Brandon Sanderson

Book: Starsight

Author: Brandon Sanderson

Series: Skyward #2

Genre: Teen Science Fiction

Rating: 3/5 stars

The Overview: All her life, Spensa has dreamed of becoming a pilot. Of proving she’s a hero like her father. She made it to the sky, but the truths she learned about her father were crushing. Spensa is sure there’s more to the story. And she’s sure that whatever happened to her father in his starship could happen to her. When she made it outside the protective shell of her planet, she heard the stars–and it was terrifying. Everything Spensa has been taught about her world is a lie. But Spensa also discovered a few other things about herself–and she’ll travel to the end of the galaxy to save humankind if she needs to. -Goodreads

The Review:

Starsight was a little weaker than the first book, but still brought the fun-factor in abundance.

The first half of the book left me wanting a bit… there were too many “convenient” plot points for my liking. Too many things left up to random chance all happening at once. So it took a great deal of suspended belief to get me through it. The writing also felt rushed. Like Sanderson didn’t have time to get the main character from point A to point B gracefully, so he just manifested a quick fix and BOOM: plot advancement. I think it was disappointing because I’m used to a lot more finesse from him. I can’t think of very many instances in his work where “just go with it” would be my advice, but it definitely applied here.

I also wasn’t crazy about the direction the plot took. The new characters introduced seemed… juvenile may be a little harsh, but the tone of dialogue and overall presentation brought the relative badass effect of the first book down a few notches. It became more fluffy, and I had signed up for a more serious we’re-fighting-for-our-very-existence type of story. Another factor could be due to the character voices the narrator performed for the audiobook, but I didn’t have any struggle with the first book, so something definitely changed, and my bet is on the overall tone of the text.

So with all of those concerns in mind, the first half of the book was… maybe not a struggle, but I wasn’t excited about what I was reading. However, somewhere in the last quarter of the book, Starsight picked up a killer momentum that won me back over. Things got serious, crazy new things were revealed, and the ending left me reeling. It saved the entire experience, and I’m back to being super eager to see what happens next. I’m sure if I didn’t have to wait for the next book, I wouldn’t feel the need to be quite so critical of this installment, but seeing as it’s all we’ll get until the end of 2021, I’m giving myself permission to be picky. ;P

Recommendation: this series is one of those I’d feel comfortable recommending to all members of the family 13+. It has that excellent mass-appeal, really fun characters, and it’s from an author I trust. Personal biases from this second book aside, the series as a whole has been delightful. Give it a go for something that manages to be both light and fun, yet still full of substance.

Other books you might like:

by Niki Hawkes