Shadows of Self – Review

“The law is not something holy, son. It’s just a reflection of the ideals of those lucky enough to be in charge.”

In my review for Alloy of Law, I described it as a great book that sets up an even greater series. On this reread, Shadows of Self lives up to the greatness I remember. 

Tapping Pewter for Strength

A year on from the events of the first book, we catch up with Wax, Wayne, Marasi and Steris as they’ve all settled into their roles in the city. It almost feels like Alloy of Law could be a prequel since there’s not as much carried over from the last book except that the dynamics between all the characters are as formed as the dynamic between Wax and Wayne. 

The plot of this book adds to this feeling. Whilst alloy of law was an almost standalone adventure in the Mistborn world, in Shadows of Self we get events with far greater reaching consequences. Consequences and discoveries that go on to define both the tone and direction of the next book and presumably the upcoming Lost Metal. This book and its insights into the world make it a far more crucial read in the Mistborn series. 

Everything great about the first book remains. The writing is snappy, the action is exciting. Whilst the mystery isn’t too deep, it suffices to keep you hooked and doesn’t throw up inconsistencies that pull you out of the story. Once again we get to see the powers of twinborns and the creative ways to use said powers. Finally, Wayne is still a delight and his banter with Wax stands out.

“ “Of course not. I’d have shot you right in the head, Wayne.”

“You’re a good friend,” Wayne said. “Thanks, Wax.” “

Reformed Characters

Whilst in Alloy of Law, relationships beyond Wax and Wayne suffer, they come into their own in this book. Both Steris and Marasi step beyond their clichés and develop as characters. Marasi in particular, gains independence, having become a constable and taking charge of several incidents that prove herself to be a valuable member of the team. On top of this, we also get some extra banter between her and Wayne which becomes the blossoming of a solid relationship. 

Not only does this rectify the wrong of book one, but it strengthens this book as a whole. The characters become interesting and memorable and stay in my memory because of the second two books more than they would if I’d only read Alloy of Law.

“You had to adapt. Move. Change. That was good, but it could also threaten identity, connection, and sense of purpose.”

A Sequel 

For me, Shadows of Self only suffers from one notable issue, but one that can only be discussed beyond the spoiler line below. 

– CAUTION SPOILERS FOR SHADOWS OF SELF BELOW –

The first book of Mistborn era two tries to straddle the line between sequel and standalone, choosing to reference the first trilogy but not to rely on it. This book chooses a side. 

I love the side it chose. Going heavier towards references with the return of the Kandra, and the reintroduction of hemalurgy reminds us of what makes this world special and reassures the reader that this is that world. This series hasn’t just reused some fun magic system rules, but lives as a consequence of Mistborn. In addition, encountering Sazed and TenSoon again was a delight. Far too often a big fantasy story ends and we only see snippets of the world after. Here we get to actually see TenSoon still mourning Vin and Sazed’s struggle with the powers he holds. 

The problem this creates though, is a furthering of the issue in Alloy of Law. Whilst none of this is too much of a spoiler, and can be real without the trilogy, the excitement brought by these elements–which are a main highlight–is only really accessible by those who read this series second. 

“She had a way of pouring everything of herself into what she did. When she fought, she was the blade. When she loved, she was the kiss. In that regard, she was far more … human than any I have known.”

Summary

Overall, I found this book to be another worthy holder of the Mistborn name. Fixing a lot of the issues of Alloy of Law and building on its strength, this book thrilled me a second time round. Knowing this and knowing that I considered the third book to be my favourite has led me to be rather excited for the next one.

“Greet every morning with a smile. That way it won’t know what you’re planning to do to it”

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