Despite having lived in Utah for about two years now, I hadn’t heard of Brandon Sanderson until recently. It wasn’t until a few weeks ago while I was cooped up in the hospital, and my friend loaned me her copy of The Emperor’s Soul did I start reading his work. I’ll be honest, at first I was a bit turned off. The writing style wasn’t the type I usually seek out, especially within the fantasy genre. I had heard so many good things about this author though (even from the patients where I was at!) Surely, this book had more to offer than my first impression, so I kept reading and I am glad I did. Not only did I come to appreciate the writing style of the author, but I fell in love with the characters despite it being such a short story. The book follows a young woman named Shai who is held captive by a corrupt empire, forcing her to complete a task that is nearly impossible.
If you’re wanting a short read that is fun, yet filled with deep thought-provoking ideas on reality, our souls, and what makes us just that – us, this is a perfect book. I look forward to reading more of Sanderson’s books. Overall, I give this book a 5 out of 5. Although the book and I got off on a rough start, I grew invested in the story and its characters.
Serendipity Minds 