Mistborn: Secret History is a companion story to the original Mistborn trilogy, written by Brandon Sanderson. Published in 2016, it explores Kelsier’s journey beyond his death in the original trilogy, shedding light on events hidden in the shadows of Scadrial’s history. This novella bridges the gap between the original trilogy and later series, offering deeper insights into the Cosmere and its lore.
1.1 Overview of the Novella
Mistborn: Secret History is a fantasy novella by Brandon Sanderson, serving as a companion to the original Mistborn trilogy. It follows Kelsier’s journey beyond his death in The Final Empire, revealing his role in the Cosmere and the events shaping Scadrial. The story bridges gaps between the original trilogy and later series, offering insights into Kelsier’s character and the larger universe. Available in both print and digital formats, it enhances the trilogy’s depth and lore.
1.2 Importance of the Story in the Mistborn Series
Mistborn: Secret History is crucial for understanding the broader context of the Mistborn series. It bridges the original trilogy and later installments, offering insights into Kelsier’s post-death journey and his role in shaping Scadrial. The novella enriches the series’ lore, providing depth to characters and events while connecting to Brandon Sanderson’s larger Cosmere universe. It is a standalone story yet deeply intertwined with the series’ evolution.
Author Background
Brandon Sanderson, a renowned fantasy author, is celebrated for his innovative storytelling and world-building. His works, including Mistborn and The Stormlight Archive, have left a lasting impact on the genre.
2.1 Brandon Sanderson and His Contributions to Fantasy Literature
Brandon Sanderson has revolutionized fantasy literature through his unique magic systems and intricate world-building. His Cosmere universe intertwines multiple series, offering a vast, interconnected narrative. Sanderson’s ability to blend epic scopes with deep character development has captivated readers, setting new standards in the genre and solidifying his legacy as a modern fantasy icon.
2.2 The Mistborn Series and Its Impact
The Mistborn series has left an indelible mark on fantasy literature, praised for its innovative magic system based on metals. Its exploration of themes like rebellion and redemption resonates deeply with readers. The series’ success has spawned expansions, including Mistborn: Secret History, further enriching the Cosmere and cementing its place as a cornerstone of modern epic fantasy.
Plot Summary
Mistborn: Secret History follows Kelsier beyond his death, exploring his role in opposing Ruin and the events leading to Scadrial’s transformation by Harmony, revealing hidden truths about the Cosmere.
3.1 Kelsier’s Journey Beyond the Original Trilogy
Kelsier’s journey begins moments before his death at the Lord Ruler’s hands, continuing into the Spiritual Realm. He opposes Ruin, influencing events unseen in the original trilogy, and plays a crucial role in Scadrial’s transformation by Harmony, offering new insights into his character and the Cosmere’s deeper connections.
3.2 Key Events and Character Development
Mistborn: Secret History delves into pivotal moments, such as Kelsier’s actions in the Spiritual Realm, his opposition to Ruin, and interactions with characters like Hoid. These events reveal deeper layers of Kelsier’s character, showcasing his growth and influence beyond the original trilogy, while setting the stage for future narratives in the Cosmere.
Publication Details
Mistborn: Secret History was published by Dragonsteel Entertainment LLC on January 30, 2016, as an eBook. It was later included in the print collection Arcanum Unbounded in 2016.
4.1 Release Date and Publishing Platform
Mistborn: Secret History was released on January 30, 2016, published by Dragonsteel Entertainment LLC. Initially available as an eBook, it was later included in the print collection Arcanum Unbounded in 2016, expanding its accessibility to readers.
4.2 Availability in Print and Digital Formats
Mistborn: Secret History is available in both digital and print formats. The novella was initially released as an eBook and later included in the print collection Arcanum Unbounded, making it accessible to a wide range of readers. Its inclusion in this anthology has further expanded its reach within the Cosmere series.
Spoilers and Reading Order
Mistborn: Secret History contains significant spoilers for the original trilogy and minor spoilers for The Bands of Mourning. It is recommended to read it after The Hero of Ages or The Bands of Mourning for full context and to avoid spoilers.
5.1 Spoilers for the Original Mistborn Trilogy
Mistborn: Secret History contains significant spoilers for the original Mistborn trilogy, including key events from The Final Empire, The Well of Ascension, and The Hero of Ages. Readers who haven’t completed the trilogy should avoid this novella, as it reveals major plot points and character fates, potentially diminishing the experience of reading the original books.
5.2 Recommended Reading Order
Readers should complete the original Mistborn trilogy before tackling Secret History to avoid spoilers. It is recommended to read The Bands of Mourning afterward, as Secret History provides deeper context to the Cosmere. This novella bridges the original trilogy with later series, enhancing the understanding of Scadrial’s evolution and Kelsier’s enduring impact on the world of Mistborn.
Character Insights
Kelsier takes center stage in Mistborn: Secret History, revealing his motivations and growth beyond the original trilogy. His character evolves, showcasing his resilience and influence on Scadrial’s fate.
6.1 Deep Dive into Kelsier’s Character
Kelsier is a central figure in Mistborn: Secret History, with the novella exploring his journey beyond the original trilogy. His charisma and leadership are highlighted as he navigates the spiritual realm, influencing events unseen in the main series. The story delves into his motivations, revealing a deeper understanding of his role in Scadrial’s history and his connection to the larger Cosmere.
Kelsier’s evolution from a rebellious thief to a legendary figure is showcased, emphasizing his emotional depth and unwavering dedication to his cause. His interactions with other characters, both living and dead, provide insight into his complex personality and enduring legacy.
6.2 Other Key Characters and Their Roles
Several key characters shape the narrative of Mistborn: Secret History, including the enigmatic Lord Ruler, whose influence persists beyond his death. Harmony, the ascended deity, plays a pivotal role in guiding events, while the Seventeenth Shard remains a mysterious force. These characters, along with others, contribute to the novella’s depth and connections to the broader Cosmere, enhancing the story’s complexity and intrigue.
Themes and Motifs
Mistborn: Secret History delves into themes of redemption and sacrifice, while exploring power dynamics and rebellion. These motifs enrich the narrative, tying it to the broader Cosmere.
7.1 Redemption and Sacrifice
Mistborn: Secret History deeply explores themes of redemption and sacrifice, particularly through Kelsier’s journey. His actions in the Cognitive Realm and interactions with Preservation and Ruin highlight the cost of heroism. Sacrifice is a recurring motif, emphasizing the lengths characters go to for the greater good, while redemption underscores personal growth and the power of selfless acts in shaping Scadrial’s destiny.
7.2 Power Dynamics and Rebellion
Mistborn: Secret History examines power dynamics, focusing on the struggle between the Lord Ruler and the forces opposing him. Kelsier’s actions in the Cognitive Realm reveal the complexities of rebellion, where power is not just physical but also ideological. The novella highlights how control shifts among cosmic forces, emphasizing rebellion as a multifaceted tool for change, influencing both the physical and spiritual realms of Scadrial.
Connection to the Cosmere
8.1 The Larger Universe and Its Implications
Mistborn: Secret History enriches the Cosmere by detailing Scadrial’s connection to other worlds. Kelsier’s journey in the Cognitive Realm illustrates interactions between Shards, showcasing how events in one world ripple across the universe, hinting at future cross-series developments and deepening the shared lore of Brandon Sanderson’s expansive creation.
Mistborn: Secret History deepens the Cosmere’s interconnectedness, revealing Kelsier’s role in the Cognitive Realm. His interactions with Shards like Ruin and Preservation highlight the universe’s broader dynamics, showcasing how events on Scadrial influence other worlds. This novella bridges gaps between series, offering insights into the Cosmere’s structure and hinting at future cross-series developments within Brandon Sanderson’s expansive, shared universe.
8.2 Links to Other Brandon Sanderson Works
Mistborn: Secret History connects deeply with the Cosmere, revealing ties to other Brandon Sanderson series. Kelsier’s journey in the Cognitive Realm and interactions with Shards like Ruin and Preservation hint at broader implications across Sanderson’s works, particularly in The Stormlight Archive. This novella bridges the Mistborn series with Sanderson’s larger universe, showcasing how Scadrial’s events influence other worlds within the Cosmere.
Reception and Reviews
Mistborn: Secret History has received positive reviews for its emotional depth and connections to the Cosmere. Fans praise its insights into Kelsier’s character and Scadrial’s history, though some note its brevity. Rated 4.2, it’s a must-read for Sanderson enthusiasts, offering a fresh perspective on beloved characters and worlds.
9.1 Fan and Critical Response
Mistborn: Secret History has garnered widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike. With a 4.2-star rating, it’s praised for its emotional depth and fresh insights into Kelsier’s character. Fans appreciate how it fills gaps in the original trilogy while expanding the Cosmere. Critics highlight its storytelling and character development, though some note its brevity. It’s a must-read for both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.
9.2 Ratings and Reviews Analysis
Mistborn: Secret History holds a 4.2-star rating, with 469 reviews highlighting its emotional depth and fresh insights into Kelsier’s journey. Fans praise its unique perspective and connections to the Cosmere, while critics note its brevity. The novella is often recommended for its ability to enhance the original trilogy, making it a compelling read for both dedicated fans and newcomers to the series.
Reading Guide
Mistborn: Secret History is available in print and digital formats, including PDF. Read it after the original trilogy to avoid spoilers and fully appreciate its insights into Kelsier’s journey and the Cosmere.
10.1 Where to Find the PDF
Mistborn: Secret History is available as a PDF through various online platforms, including Brandon Sanderson’s official website and major ebook retailers. It was initially released as an ebook-only novella by Dragonsteel Entertainment, LLC, and later included in the print collection Arcanum Unbounded. Readers can also find free PDF versions on select websites, though purchasing from authorized sources is recommended to support the author.
10.2 Tips for Reading the Novella
Read Mistborn: Secret History after completing the original trilogy to avoid spoilers. Pay attention to its connections to the broader Cosmere. Take your time to absorb the intricate worldbuilding and character insights. Reading it alongside other Cosmere works can enhance understanding of its role in the larger universe. Approach it with an open mind to appreciate its unique narrative style and depth.
Mistborn: Secret History is a fascinating addition to the Mistborn saga, offering unique insights into Kelsier’s journey and the Cosmere. A must-read for Brandon Sanderson fans, it enriches the series’ lore, providing a deeper understanding of Scadrial’s history and its characters. Read it after the original trilogy to fully appreciate its significance and brilliance.
11.1 Final Thoughts on Mistborn: Secret History
Mistborn: Secret History captivates readers with its intricate storytelling and deep character development, particularly Kelsier’s journey beyond the original trilogy. Brandon Sanderson masterfully expands the Cosmere, revealing hidden events and connections; Fans of the series will appreciate the novella’s unique perspective, while newcomers should read it after the trilogy to fully grasp its significance and enjoy its brilliance without spoilers.
11.2 Its Place in the Mistborn Saga
Mistborn: Secret History serves as a bridge between the original trilogy and later series, offering a deeper understanding of Scadrial’s evolution. It enriches the Cosmere by revealing hidden connections and expanding Kelsier’s legacy. This novella is essential for fans seeking a comprehensive narrative, fitting seamlessly into the saga’s timeline and enhancing the overall story arc of Brandon Sanderson’s sprawling universe.