How to Read Mistborn in the Right Order

How to Read Mistborn by Publication Order

The Mistborn Saga by Brandon Sanderson is split into multiple eras, each exploring a different time period in the same universe. Reading by publication order is the recommended way for first-time readers, as it follows the pacing, character reveals, and world-building as the author intended.

Era 1 – The Original Trilogy

1. The Final Empire – Introduces the world of Scadrial, Allomancy, and the fight against the Lord Ruler.
2. The Well of Ascension – Continues the revolution, with shifting alliances and growing mysteries.
3. The Hero of Ages – Concludes the first era with a dramatic resolution to the struggle for freedom.

Era 2 – The Wax and Wayne Series

4. The Alloy of Law – Set 300 years later, this book blends fantasy with a Wild West/steampunk vibe.
5. Shadows of Self – Delves deeper into political conspiracies and magical evolution.
6. The Bands of Mourning – A thrilling adventure uncovering secrets from the past and future.

Companion Novella

7. Mistborn: Secret History – A behind-the-scenes novella that expands on major events from Era 1 and connects to the larger Cosmere universe. Best read after The Bands of Mourning to avoid spoilers.

Following publication order ensures proper narrative flow and avoids key spoilers.