Mistborn Books in Order
Mistborn is Brandon Sanderson's acclaimed high-fantasy series set in Scadrial, featuring unique metal-based magic (Allomancy) and complex political intrigue. Explore the full publication and chronological sequence below, complete with book summaries, ratings, and purchase links.
What is the recommended reading order for Mistborn?
The Mistborn series is divided into eras. Read Era 1 (original trilogy starting with The Final Empire) followed by Era 2 (the Wax & Wayne tetralogy starting with The Alloy of Law).
The Final Empire
A street thief named Vin is recruited by the charismatic Kelsier to overthrow a thousand-year-old immortal tyrant known as the Lord Ruler.
The Well of Ascension
Having toppled the empire, Elend Venture and Vin struggle to rule the fragile new government while under siege from rival warlords.
The Hero of Ages
As ash falls and the world begins to choke, Vin and Elend must decipher the ancient prophecies to stop the dark force known as Ruin.
The Alloy of Law
Three hundred years after the events of Era 1, lawman Waxillium Ladrian returns to the metropolis of Elendel to solve a series of train robberies.
Shadows of Self
Wax and Wayne investigate a political conspiracy that threatens to tear Elendel apart, uncovering links to legendary figures from the past.
The Bands of Mourning
Wax searches for the mythical metal bands belonging to the Lord Ruler, rumored to grant anyone the full range of magical abilities.
Secret History
A companion novella exploring behind-the-scenes cosmic events in the Cosmere during the timeline of the original Mistborn trilogy.
The Lost Metal
The action-packed conclusion to Mistborn Era 2 as Wax and Wayne face off against cosmic threats originating from outside Scadrial.