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Brandon Sanderson

American · b. 197530 books

Epic FantasyScience FictionYoung Adult Fantasy

Creating the interconnected Cosmere universe with meticulously crafted hard magic systems.

Biography

Brandon Sanderson is an American fantasy author renowned for his intricate magic systems and epic worldbuilding. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska in 1975, he gained attention by completing Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series. His own Cosmere universe — spanning multiple interconnected series — has made him one of the most popular fantasy writers alive. In 2022 he broke Kickstarter records by raising $41 million for four secret novels. Sanderson's prolific output and engagement with fans has redefined what it means to be a modern fantasy author.

Best Starting Book

Mistborn: The Final Empire

A complete, satisfying story that introduces Sanderson's signature magic system design and plot payoffs without requiring a massive time commitment.

Reading Order

1

Mistborn: The Final Empire

A self-contained heist story with a brilliant magic system — the ideal Sanderson starting point.

2

The Well of Ascension

Continues the Mistborn trilogy with deeper political intrigue and character development.

3

The Hero of Ages

A stunning conclusion that recontextualizes everything — showcases Sanderson's signature payoffs.

4

The Way of Kings

The first Stormlight Archive book — Sanderson's most ambitious and acclaimed epic fantasy.

5

Warbreaker

A standalone Cosmere novel with connections to Stormlight — great for understanding the wider universe.