This book is lighter fare than the epic, world-sprawling tomes Sanderson usually pens, but in true Sanderson style, it's still highly entertaining, with a well-integrated magic system, great action, and compelling characters you can't help but adore. I wanted to draw little hearts in the margins whenever Wayne was present. I wanted to draw BIG hearts in the margins whenever the characters of the original trilogy were alluded to, particularly Spook. Good lord on a stick, do I love Spook.

I debated giving it four or five stars, because the story just didn't feel as "big" as Sanderson's usual work. I just kept reminding myself that this book started as a short story, and it's wide open for a sequel, so I expect we'll be seeing a lot more from these characters.

The other aspect that didn't sit well with me was (view spoiler)[Sazed's divine intervention. Unlike many fans, I didn't have any issue with the divine playing a large role in Mistborn #3, but it felt out of place here. The seeds weren't planted deeply enough for me in the lead-up. (hide spoiler)] Your mileage may vary, however.

I'd heartily recommend this book to any Mistborn fan, though I'd recommend any fantasy fan who hadn't read Mistborn to devour the trilogy first. The trilogy isn't required to understand the events of this book, but there are so many wonderful little details one needs to be a Mistborn fan to appreciate. I wouldn't want a reader denied that enjoyment.