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BOOK REVIEW | THE EMPEROR'S SOUL BY BRANDON SANDERSON (SPOILER FREE)

June 20, 2021

Title: The Emperor's Soul
Author: Brandon Sanderson

Pages: 175

Publisher: Tachyon Publications

Published date: 10 October 2012

Genre: Fantasy

Kinokuniya | Book Depository

A heretic thief is the empire’s only hope in this fascinating tale that inhabits the same world as the popular novel, Elantris.

Shai is a Forger, a foreigner who can flawlessly copy and re-create any item by rewriting its history with skillful magic. Condemned to death after trying to steal the emperor’s scepter, she is given one opportunity to save herself. Though her skill as a Forger is considered an abomination by her captors, Shai will attempt to create a new soul for the emperor, who is almost dead.

Probing deeply into his life, she discovers Emperor Ashravan’s truest nature—and the opportunity to exploit it. Her only possible ally is one who is truly loyal to the emperor, but councilor Gaotona must overcome his prejudices to understand that Shai’s forgery is as much artistry as it is deception.

Brimming with magic and political intrigue, this deftly woven fantasy delves into the essence of a living spirit. (Source: Goodreads)

Sincerity. It was so difficult. By definition, to fake.

This is my first book I read by Brandon Sanderson, one of the most renowned fantasy authors in the book community. I've been wanting to read his works ever since Skyward came out. Skyward was talked about a lot in BookTube videos which finally led me to jump in the bandwagon to join Brandon's fanbase.

Upon reading The Emperor's Soul, I get it why he's so popular. This book is about Shai, who can easily copy and re-create things based on its history. One day, Shai was caught red-handed when she stole the Emperor's scepter. However, she was given another chance to redeem herself only if she agrees to copy the Emperor's soul and bring him back to life.

... smile at the worst insults and snap at the minor ones. That way, no men would know your heart.

When I read the synopsis, I was scared if the fantasy is too advanced for me. A forger who can copy and re-create things? How is it possible to make it interesting? Honestly, this book blew me away with only 175 pages.

This book not only consist of politics. It taught me patience, endurance and diligence. Brandon Sanderson created a fantasy world with likeable and well fleshed out characters. You'd think within the small pages, we wouldn't get attached to any of the characters. But at the end, I felt warm inside seeing Shai and Gaotona father-daughter relationship.

Despite the wonderful magical fantasy, I admit, it was a bit confusing to understand and imagine the role of a Forger. However, once I got it, I was mesmerized by it. I don't think I have ever read any fantasy like this. I would say this is a good start to read Brandon Sanderson's works. I bought this book at a cheap price from BookXcess and I don't regret it one bit :)

Rate: ★★★★★

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