Deluxe UK Editions of Brandon Sanderson’s STORMLIGHT ARCHIVE Out Now!


You may have seen these books announced on Twitter, but we’re happy to report that the new, deluxe UK editions of Brandon Sanderson‘s first four Stormlight Archive are out now! Published by Gollancz, each book has sprayed edges and embossed hardcovers.

  1. THE WAY OF KINGS
  2. WORDS OF RADIANCE
  3. OATHBRINGER
  4. RHYTHM OF WAR

In case you are new to the series, here’s the synopsis for this new edition of THE WAY OF KINGS

The Gollancz Emporium exclusive edition of The Way of Kings by fantasy superstar Brandon Sanderson. Available in a single volume and featuring an array of special finishes, this is the premium way to enter one of the most imaginative fantasy worlds ever conceived.

The Way of Kings, Book One of the Stormlight Archive, begins an incredible saga of epic proportion. Set in a high fantasy world like no other, the magic, history and scope of imagination will take your breath away.

Roshar is a world of stone and storms. Uncanny tempests of incredible power sweep across the rocky terrain so frequently that they have shaped ecology and civilization alike. Animals hide in shells, trees pull in branches, and grass retracts into the soilless ground. Cities are built only where the topography offers shelter.

It has been centuries since the fall of the ten consecrated orders known as the Knights Radiant, but their Shardblades and Shardplate remain: mystical swords and suits of armor that transform ordinary men into near-invincible warriors. Men trade kingdoms for Shardblades. Wars were fought for them, and won by them.

One such war rages on a ruined landscape called the Shattered Plains. There, Kaladin, who traded his medical apprenticeship for a spear to protect his little brother, has been reduced to slavery. In a war that makes no sense, where ten armies fight separately against a single foe, he struggles to save his men and to fathom the leaders who consider them expendable.

Brightlord Dalinar Kholin commands one of those other armies. Like his brother, the late king, he is fascinated by an ancient text called The Way of Kings. Troubled by over-powering visions of ancient times and the Knights Radiant, he has begun to doubt his own sanity.

Across the ocean, an untried young woman named Shallan seeks to train under an eminent scholar and notorious heretic, Dalinar’s niece, Jasnah. Though she genuinely loves learning, Shallan’s motives are less than pure. As she plans a daring theft, her research for Jasnah hints at secrets of the Knights Radiant and the true cause of the war.

The result of over ten years of planning, writing, and world-building, The Way of Kings is but the opening movement of the Stormlight Archive, a bold masterpiece in the making.

Speak again the ancient oaths:

Life before death.
Strength before weakness.
Journey before Destination.

… and return to men the Shards they once bore.

The Knights Radiant must stand again.

Here are some reviews of each of the four novels, as well as close-ups of the new editions…

‘Sanderson is a master […] Fans and lovers of epic fantasy will find the ending satisfying, yet will eagerly await the next volume.’ — Library Journal on THE WAY OF KINGS

‘Sanderson is […] absolutely amazing at worldbuilding. The level of detail is just astonishing […] Kaladin and Shallan’s stories are compelling and readable.’ RT Book Reviews on THE WAY OF KINGS

‘A classic story of intrigue, magic and war, with a large cast of characters and multiple settings lovingly detailed in a way only possible in volumes of this size […] There’s wit, magic and erudition […] Readers will plunge into it.’ — Booklist on THE WAY OF KINGS

‘Balancing fascinating worldbuilding with a page-turner of a plot, this is a series fantasy fans won’t want to miss.’ Kirkus (Starred Review) on WORDS OF RADIANCE

‘Brandon Sanderson’s reputation is finally as big as his novels.’ New York Times on WORDS OF RADIANCE

‘Sanderson has used the room afforded by a book of this size to build it in loving detail […] the characterization is on the whole as as meticulous as the world-building. A very impressive continuation.’ — Booklist on WORDS OF RADIANCE

‘Sanderson’s skill at world building is unmatched, and in the Stormlight Archive series he has developed an innovative magical system and combined it with rich, complex characters to create a compelling story. His eagerly awaited sequel to The Way of Kings exceeds expectations. This developing epic series is a must-read for all fantasy fans.’ Library Journal on WORDS OF RADIANCE

‘Fans of the Stormlight Archive series will enjoy this book, which brings back favorite characters and deepens a well-drawn fantasy world.’ Kirkus on OATHBRINGER

‘The much-anticipated third Stormlight Archive epic fantasy installment is classic Sanderson, with multiple story lines and unexpected twists and turns […] Sanderson successfully balances introducing new elements and satisfactorily resolving some threads, leaving fans to eagerly await the next in the series.’ Publishers Weekly on OATHBRINGER

OATHBRINGER is everything I expected it to be. Not only does it make good on the promises of the first two volumes, it elevates the Stormlight Archive to new heights of epic magic, exceptional worldbuilding, and satisfying action. With each new novel, Sanderson proves himself to be the true heir to Robert Jordan’s throne. He’s writing big, meaty, contemplative epic fantasy, and showing no signs of slowing down.’ B&N Sci-Fi and Fantasy Blog

‘[RHYTHM OF WAR] certainly delivers the dense fantasy epic long-time readers will expect.’ — Booklist

‘It is the sign of a skilled author if they can draw laughter and tears from you in the space of a few chapters or even a few lines, and well Sanderson [is] the master of emotions.’ — Fantasy Hive on RHYTHM OF WAR

‘Storms, this was a fantastic book. Highs and lows, laughter and tears, joy and grief—it was all there.’ Tor.com on RHYTHM OF WAR

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

New UK Hardcover Edition of Brandon Sanderson’s THE WAY OF KINGS Out Tomorrow!


New hardcover editions of Brandon Sanderson‘s THE WAY OF KINGS Parts 1 and 2 are out tomorrow in the UK! Published by Gollancz, they comprise the first instalment in the author’s acclaimed, best-selling, and epic Stormlight Archive fantasy series. Here’s the synopsis…

Roshar is a world of stone and storms. Uncanny tempests of incredible power sweep across the rocky terrain so frequently that they have shaped ecology and civilisation alike. Animals hide in shells, trees pull in branches, and grass retracts into the soil-less ground. Cities are built only where the topography offers shelter.

It has been centuries since the fall of the ten consecrated orders known as the Knights Radiant, but their Shardblades and Shardplate remain: mystical swords and suits of armour that transform ordinary men into near-invincible warriors. Men trade kingdoms for Shardblades. Wars were fought for them, and won by them.

One such war rages on a ruined landscape called the Shattered Plains. There, Kaladin, who traded his medical apprenticeship for a spear to protect his little brother, has been reduced to slavery. In a war that makes no sense, where ten armies fight separately against a single foe, he struggles to save his men and to fathom the leaders who consider them expendable.

Brightlord Dalinar Kholin commands one of those other armies. Like his brother, the late king, he is fascinated by an ancient text called The Way of Kings. Troubled by over-powering visions of ancient times and the Knights Radiant, he has begun to doubt his own sanity.

Across the ocean, an untried young woman named Shallan seeks to train under an eminent scholar and notorious heretic, Dalinar’s niece, Jasnah. Though she genuinely loves learning, Shallan’s motives are less than pure. As she plans a daring theft, her research for Jasnah hints at secrets of the Knights Radiant and the true cause of the war.

The result of more than ten years of planning, writing, and world-building, The Way of Kings is but the opening movement of The Stormlight Archive, a bold masterpiece in the making.

Speak again the ancient oaths:

Life before death.
Strength before weakness.
Journey before Destination.

And return to men the Shards they once bore.

The Knights Radiant must stand again.

The first four novels in the Stormlight Archive series are published in the UK by Gollancz. The other three are WORDS OF RADIANCE, OATHBRINGER, and RHYTHM OF WAR.

Gollancz also publishes a whole host of Brandon’s other acclaimed works in the UK, too, including the Mistborn, Reckoner and Skyward series, the stand-alone novels ELANTRIS and WARBREAKER, and more.

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Three Zeno Titles on Sale Post-Christmas!


Hope you’ve all been enjoying your end-of-year celebrations! In case you fancied picking up some new reads to see in the new year, today we have just a quick post to draw your attention to some eBook deals running at the moment in the UK…

There are two books by Brandon Sanderson included in the sale. First up, we have THE WAY OF KINGS (pictured above), book one in the author’s ongoing, best-selling and critically-acclaimed Stormlight Archives fantasy series. Published in the UK by Gollancz, here’s the synopsis…

According to mythology mankind used to live in The Tranquiline Halls. Heaven. But then the Voidbringers assaulted and captured heaven, casting out God and men. Men took root on Roshar, the world of storms. And the Voidbringers followed…

They came against man ten thousand times. To help them cope, the Almighty gave men powerful suits of armor and mystical weapons, known as Shardblades. Led by ten angelic Heralds and ten orders of knights known as Radiants, mankind finally won.

Or so the legends say. Today, the only remnants of those supposed battles are the Shardblades, the possession of which makes a man nearly invincible on the battlefield. The entire world is at war with itself – and has been for centuries since the Radiants turned against mankind. Kings strive to win more Shardblades, each secretly wishing to be the one who will finally unite all of mankind under a single throne.

On a world scoured down to the rock by terrifying hurricanes that blow through every few day a young spearman forced into the army of a Shardbearer, led to war against an enemy he doesn’t understand and doesn’t really want to fight.

What happened deep in mankind’s past?

Why did the Radiants turn against mankind, and what happened to the magic they used to wield?

‘Epic in every sense. Sanderson has built a world that leaps to life, a cast of varied characters, and a vast history […] while Sanderson cuts from the familiar cloth of fantasy, his narrative impetus and meticulous world-building bode well for future volumes.’ — Guardian

‘An epic fantasy world of his own that promises to captivate genre fans.’ — SciFi Now

‘Sanderson reveals a world with incredible depth on the brink of a major paradigm shift […] For a novel that tops out over 1000 pages, Sanderson’s tale does not falter in its narrative pull nor does his ability to evoke tension waver […] I can’t say that it felt like a long tale. It felt epic and powerful […] I give this book my highest recommendation and think THE WAY OF KINGS will be one of those landmark novels of Epic Fantasy against which future novels will always be measured.’ — SFFWorld

Next up, we have THE FINAL EMPIRE, the first novel in the acclaimed Mistborn series, also published in the UK by Gollancz

A thousand years ago evil came to the land and has ruled with an iron hand ever since. The sun shines fitfully under clouds of ash that float down endlessly from the constant eruption of volcanoes. A dark lord rules through the aristocratic families and ordinary folk are condemned to lives in servitude, sold as goods, labouring in the ash fields.

But now a troublemaker has arrived and there is rumour of revolt. A revolt that depends on a criminal no-one can trust and a young girl who must master Allomancy – the magic that lies in all metals.

‘Complicated and yet fast-paced and entertaining, with likably human protagonists and a large-scale cast of colorful characters, this trilogy introduced Sanderson as an important new voice in epic fantasy.’ — Library Journal

‘The characters in this book are amazingly believable. Vin is an eminently sympathetic protagonist whose development over the course of the book is beautifully and realistically delineated. The system of magic is exceedingly clever and well integrated into this complex and plausible world that Vin and Kelsier inhabit […] While this is the first in a series, it’s an exceedingly satisfying book on its own, and fans of the genre should waste no time picking it up.’ — RT Book Reviews

‘Sanderson is not only one of the best writers in the business, he’s also one of the most prolific, churning out top-notch books year-over-year for both adult and young adult readers […] To say I was pleasantly surprised would be to understate my enjoyment of the books. This is easily one of the finest fantasy stories I’ve ever read, and my only regret is that I read it so quickly.’ Forbes Magazine

Finally, THE KINGDOM OF LIARS by Nick Martell is the first novel in the acclaimed Legacy of the Mercenary Kings epic fantasy series. Published in the UK by Gollancz, check out the synopsis…

Michael Kingman has been an outsider for as long as he remembers. The court which executed his father also exiled him and his family. They branded him a traitor, and the nobles who had been his friends turned their backs, prepared to let the legendary Kingman family die on Hollow’s city streets.

Only they survived.

And it should come as no surprise to Hollow Court, or the King, that they’ve been searching for the truth ever since.

History is written by the winners, truth buried beneath lies until it’s Forgotten. Justice seems impossible in a city where the price of magic is a memory. But Michael Kingman is determined to make everyone remember…

Here are just a few of the great reviews THE KINGDOM OF LIARS has received…

‘… impressive and highly ambitious epic fantasy debut… Martell’s portrayal of his protagonist’s growth, from a cocksure chancer to a mature adult sobered by his discoveries, is just as impressive as the twisty plot.’ — Guardian

THE KINGDOM OF LIARS is a tale of family, loyalty and leaving a legacy that none shall forget. This is certainly a book that you won’t be able to put down, and will linger with you long after you’ve read the last page.’ — Fantasy Hive

‘Martell’s taut, clever debut tells of rebellion and regicide in a world where the use of magic comes at the cost of one’s memories… Though the abundance of characters becomes overwhelming at times, their political maneuvers and varied motivations form a satisfying web. This smart, briskly told high fantasy entertains all the way until the unexpected end.’ — Publishers Weekly

‘An obvious strength of this novel is Martell’s worldbuilding prowess as well as his utilization of magic, which is subtle but powerful… a knotty mystery… keeps the pages turning… a story full of relentless action and more than a few jaw-dropping plot twists… An impressive fantasy debut that creates a solid foundation for (hopefully) a much larger narrative to come.’ — Kirkus

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson and Nick Martell in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

THE WAY OF KINGS New UK Hardcover Editions Postponed


Unfortunately, the recently-announced new hardcover editions of Brandon Sanderson‘s THE WAY OF KINGS Parts 1 and 2 have been postponed. They are now scheduled to be published by Gollancz on January 20th, 2022.

The first instalment in the author’s acclaimed, best-selling, and epic Stormlight Archive fantasy series, here’s the synopsis…

Roshar is a world of stone and storms. Uncanny tempests of incredible power sweep across the rocky terrain so frequently that they have shaped ecology and civilisation alike. Animals hide in shells, trees pull in branches, and grass retracts into the soil-less ground. Cities are built only where the topography offers shelter.

It has been centuries since the fall of the ten consecrated orders known as the Knights Radiant, but their Shardblades and Shardplate remain: mystical swords and suits of armour that transform ordinary men into near-invincible warriors. Men trade kingdoms for Shardblades. Wars were fought for them, and won by them.

One such war rages on a ruined landscape called the Shattered Plains. There, Kaladin, who traded his medical apprenticeship for a spear to protect his little brother, has been reduced to slavery. In a war that makes no sense, where ten armies fight separately against a single foe, he struggles to save his men and to fathom the leaders who consider them expendable.

Brightlord Dalinar Kholin commands one of those other armies. Like his brother, the late king, he is fascinated by an ancient text called The Way of Kings. Troubled by over-powering visions of ancient times and the Knights Radiant, he has begun to doubt his own sanity.

Across the ocean, an untried young woman named Shallan seeks to train under an eminent scholar and notorious heretic, Dalinar’s niece, Jasnah. Though she genuinely loves learning, Shallan’s motives are less than pure. As she plans a daring theft, her research for Jasnah hints at secrets of the Knights Radiant and the true cause of the war.

The result of more than ten years of planning, writing, and world-building, The Way of Kings is but the opening movement of The Stormlight Archive, a bold masterpiece in the making.

Speak again the ancient oaths:

Life before death.
Strength before weakness.
Journey before Destination.

And return to men the Shards they once bore.

The Knights Radiant must stand again.

The first four novels in the Stormlight Archive series are published in the UK by Gollancz. The other three are WORDS OF RADIANCE, OATHBRINGER, and RHYTHM OF WAR. The second novel in the series will also be getting a split hardcover edition, due out in April 2022.

Gollancz also publishes a whole host of Brandon’s other acclaimed works in the UK, too, including the Mistborn, Reckoner and Skyward series, the stand-alone novels ELANTRIS and WARBREAKER, and more.

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Coming Soon: New Hardcover Editions for THE WAY OF KINGS!


Next month (June 24th), Gollancz are due to publish new hardcover editions of Brandon Sanderson‘s THE WAY OF KINGS Parts 1 and 2! The first instalment in the author’s acclaimed, best-selling Stormlight Archive fantasy series, here’s the synopsis…

Roshar is a world of stone and storms. Uncanny tempests of incredible power sweep across the rocky terrain so frequently that they have shaped ecology and civilisation alike. Animals hide in shells, trees pull in branches, and grass retracts into the soil-less ground. Cities are built only where the topography offers shelter.

It has been centuries since the fall of the ten consecrated orders known as the Knights Radiant, but their Shardblades and Shardplate remain: mystical swords and suits of armour that transform ordinary men into near-invincible warriors. Men trade kingdoms for Shardblades. Wars were fought for them, and won by them.

One such war rages on a ruined landscape called the Shattered Plains. There, Kaladin, who traded his medical apprenticeship for a spear to protect his little brother, has been reduced to slavery. In a war that makes no sense, where ten armies fight separately against a single foe, he struggles to save his men and to fathom the leaders who consider them expendable.

Brightlord Dalinar Kholin commands one of those other armies. Like his brother, the late king, he is fascinated by an ancient text called The Way of Kings. Troubled by over-powering visions of ancient times and the Knights Radiant, he has begun to doubt his own sanity.

Across the ocean, an untried young woman named Shallan seeks to train under an eminent scholar and notorious heretic, Dalinar’s niece, Jasnah. Though she genuinely loves learning, Shallan’s motives are less than pure. As she plans a daring theft, her research for Jasnah hints at secrets of the Knights Radiant and the true cause of the war.

The result of more than ten years of planning, writing, and world-building, The Way of Kings is but the opening movement of The Stormlight Archive, a bold masterpiece in the making.

Speak again the ancient oaths:

Life before death.
Strength before weakness.
Journey before Destination.

And return to men the Shards they once bore.

The Knights Radiant must stand again.

The first four novels in the Stormlight Archive (projected to be a 10-book series) are published in the UK by Gollancz. The other three are WORDS OF RADIANCE, OATHBRINGER, and RHYTHM OF WAR.

Gollancz has published a whole host of Brandon’s other acclaimed works in the UK, too, including the Mistborn, Reckoner and Skyward series, the stand-alone novels ELANTRIS and WARBREAKER, and more.

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

THE WAY OF KINGS Returns Tomorrow in UK Hardcover!


Tomorrow, the first novel in Brandon Sanderson‘s best-selling, acclaimed Stormlight Archive series will be re-issued by Gollancz in hardcover in the uk! THE WAY OF KINGS, first published in 20, is the start of an epic fantasy story (projected to be ten volumes). This is a great opportunity for fans of the series to complete their (hardcover) collection and for newcomers to discover this awesome novel and series. Here’s the synopsis…

Roshar is a world of stone and storms. Uncanny tempests of incredible power sweep across the rocky terrain so frequently that they have shaped ecology and civilization alike. Animals hide in shells, trees pull in branches, and grass retracts into the soilless ground. Cities are built only where the topography offers shelter.

It has been centuries since the fall of the ten consecrated orders known as the Knights Radiant, but their Shardblades and Shardplate remain: mystical swords and suits of armor that transform ordinary men into near-invincible warriors. Men trade kingdoms for Shardblades. Wars were fought for them, and won by them.

One such war rages on a ruined landscape called the Shattered Plains. There, Kaladin, who traded his medical apprenticeship for a spear to protect his little brother, has been reduced to slavery. In a war that makes no sense, where ten armies fight separately against a single foe, he struggles to save his men and to fathom the leaders who consider them expendable.

Brightlord Dalinar Kholin commands one of those other armies. Like his brother, the late king, he is fascinated by an ancient text called The Way of Kings. Troubled by over-powering visions of ancient times and the Knights Radiant, he has begun to doubt his own sanity.

Across the ocean, an untried young woman named Shallan seeks to train under an eminent scholar and notorious heretic, Dalinar’s niece, Jasnah. Though she genuinely loves learning, Shallan’s motives are less than pure. As she plans a daring theft, her research for Jasnah hints at secrets of the Knights Radiant and the true cause of the war.

The result of over ten years of planning, writing, and world-building, The Way of Kings is but the opening movement of the Stormlight Archive, a bold masterpiece in the making.

Speak again the ancient oaths:

Life before death.
Strength before weakness.
Journey before Destination.

… and return to men the Shards they once bore.

The Knights Radiant must stand again.

Gollancz has published the first four novels in the series — the others are: WORDS OF RADIANCE, OATHBRINGER, and RHYTHM OF WAR.

Here are just a few of the great reviews THE WAY OF KINGS has received…

‘Sanderson is a master […] Fans and lovers of epic fantasy will find the ending satisfying, yet will eagerly await the next volume.’ — Library Journal

‘Sanderson is […] absolutely amazing at worldbuilding. The level of detail is just astonishing […] Kaladin and Shallan’s stories are compelling and readable.’ — RT Book Reviews

‘A classic story of intrigue, magic and war, with a large cast of characters and multiple settings lovingly detailed in a way only possible in volumes of this size […] There’s wit, magic and erudition […] Readers will plunge into it.’ — Booklist

‘Brandon Sanderson is modern epic fantasy’s Grand Master, comparable only to Tolkien in scope and richness of story, and I for one hope has a long, long career.’ — Grasping for the Wind

‘Epic in every sense. Sanderson has built a world that leaps to life, a cast of varied characters, and a vast history […] while Sanderson cuts from the familiar cloth of fantasy, his narrative impetus and meticulous world-building bode well for future volumes.’ — The Guardian

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Brandon Sanderson’s STORMLIGHT ARCHIVE included in Audible UK’s 3-for-2 Promo!


We’re very happy to report that the first three novels in Brandon Sanderson‘s acclaimed and best-selling Stormlight Archive series are included in Audible UK‘s 3-for-2 promotion! The promotion ends on October 31st.

All three audiobooks are published by Gollancz. Here’s the synopsis for the first novel, THE WAY OF KINGS

According to mythology mankind used to live in The Tranquiline Halls. Heaven. But then the Voidbringers assaulted and captured heaven, casting out God and men. Men took root on Roshar, the world of storms. And the Voidbringers followed…

They came against man ten thousand times. To help them cope, the Almighty gave men powerful suits of armor and mystical weapons, known as Shardblades. Led by ten angelic Heralds and ten orders of knights known as Radiants, mankind finally won.

Or so the legends say. Today, the only remnants of those supposed battles are the Shardblades, the possession of which makes a man nearly invincible on the battlefield. The entire world is at war with itself – and has been for centuries since the Radiants turned against mankind. Kings strive to win more Shardblades, each secretly wishing to be the one who will finally unite all of mankind under a single throne.

On a world scoured down to the rock by terrifying hurricanes that blow through every few day a young spearman forced into the army of a Shardbearer, led to war against an enemy he doesn’t understand and doesn’t really want to fight.

What happened deep in mankind’s past?

Why did the Radiants turn against mankind, and what happened to the magic they used to wield?

All three of the audiobooks are narrated by Kate Reading and Michael Kramer.

This is also a very handy promotion if you want to give catching up on the series a try — the fourth novel, RHYTHM OF WAR, is due to be published in the UK by Gollancz on November 17th, in print, eBook, and audio!

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

New Brandon Sanderson Covers in the UK…


Last week, we shared the recently-unveiled cover for Brandon Sanderson‘s upcoming, highly-anticipated new novel RHYTHM OF WAR. Today, we wanted to draw your attention to the new covers that will grace Brandon’s UK back-catalogue. All of these are published by Gollancz.

Above are the covers for the author’s Mistborn series. Next are the new covers for the first two Stormlight Archive novels (available in single-volume and split paperback editions)…

And finally, here are the new covers for Brandon’s stand-alone novels and novellas, which have also received some tweaks:

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Aliette de Bodard, Brandon Sanderson and Marie Brennan are Hugo Awards Finalists!


We’re delighted to report that Aliette de BodardBrandon Sanderson and Marie Brennan are among this year’s Hugo Awards finalists! The winners of the awards will be announced at WorldCon 76 in San Jose, on August 19th.

First up, Aliette de Bodard’s CHILDREN OF THORNS, CHILDREN OF WATER has been nominated in the Best Novelette category. Part of the author’s critically-acclaimed, award-winning Dominion of the Fallen series, the story is available free — more details on where you can get it here. Here’s the synopsis…

In a Paris that never was, a city of magicians, alchemists and Fallen angels struggling to recover from a devastating magical war…

Once each year, the House of Hawthorn tests the Houseless: for those chosen, success means the difference between a safe life and the devastation of the streets. However, for Thuan and his friend Kim Cuc, — dragons in human shapes and envoys from the dying underwater kingdom of the Seine — the stakes are entirely different. Charged with infiltrating a House that keeps encroaching on the Seine, if they are caught, they face a painful death.

Worse, mysterious children of thorns stalk the candidates through Hawthorn’s corridors. Will Thuan and Kim Cuc survive and succeed?

The Dominion of the Fallen series novels, including the Nebula Award-winning THE HOUSE OF SHATTERED WINGS, and THE HOUSE OF BINDING THORNS — are published in the UK by Gollancz and in the US by Roc Books.

Secondly, Brandon Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive series has been nominated for Best Series. Currently comprised of three novels — THE WAY OF KINGS, WORDS OF RADIANCE and OATHBRINGER (more on the way) — the series is published in the UK by Gollancz. Here’s the synopsis for the first book…

According to mythology mankind used to live in The Tranquiline Halls. Heaven. But then the Voidbringers assaulted and captured heaven, casting out God and men. Men took root on Roshar, the world of storms. And the Voidbringers followed…

They came against man ten thousand times. To help them cope, the Almighty gave men powerful suits of armor and mystical weapons, known as Shardblades. Led by ten angelic Heralds and ten orders of knights known as Radiants, mankind finally won.

Or so the legends say. Today, the only remnants of those supposed battles are the Shardblades, the possession of which makes a man nearly invincible on the battlefield. The entire world is at war with itself — and has been for centuries since the Radiants turned against mankind. Kings strive to win more Shardblades, each secretly wishing to be the one who will finally unite all of mankind under a single throne.

On a world scoured down to the rock by terrifying hurricanes that blow through every few day a young spearman forced into the army of a Shardbearer, led to war against an enemy he doesn’t understand and doesn’t really want to fight.

What happened deep in mankind’s past?

Why did the Radiants turn against mankind, and what happened to the magic they used to wield?

Last but by no means least, Marie Brennan’s Memoirs of Lady Trent novels have been nominated in the Best Series category! Published in the UK by Titan Books, all five novels are out now: A NATURAL HISTORY OF DRAGONS, THE TROPIC OF SERPENTS, VOYAGE OF THE BASILISK, and WITHIN THE SANCTUARY OF WINGS. Here’s the synopsis for the first book…

All the world, from Scirland to the farthest reaches of Eriga, know Isabella, Lady Trent, to be the world’s preeminent dragon naturalist. She is the remarkable woman who brought the study of dragons out of the misty shadows of myth into the clear light of modern science. But before she became the illustrious figure we know today, there was a bookish young woman whose passion for learning, natural history, and, yes, dragons defied the stifling conventions of her day. Here at last, in her own words, is the true story of a pioneering spirit who risked her reputation, her prospects, and her fragile flesh and bone to satisfy her scientific curiosity; of how she sought true love and happiness despite her lamentable eccentricities; and of her thrilling expedition to the perilous mountains of Vystrana, where she made the first of many historic discoveries that would change the world forever.

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson and Marie Brennan in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Brandon Sanderson’s THE WAY OF KINGS out tomorrow in paperback


Sanderson-SA1-WayOfKingsUKPB-Blog

Previously available in two volumes, Brandon Sanderson‘s epic THE WAY OF KINGS is published tomorrow in a single-volume paperback by Gollancz. Here’s the synopsis…

According to mythology mankind used to live in The Tranquiline Halls. Heaven. But then the Voidbringers assaulted and captured heaven, casting out God and men. Men took root on Roshar, the world of storms. And the Voidbringers followed…

They came against man ten thousand times. To help them cope, the Almighty gave men powerful suits of armor and mystical weapons, known as Shardblades. Led by ten angelic Heralds and ten orders of knights known as Radiants, mankind finally won.

Or so the legends say. Today, the only remnants of those supposed battles are the Shardblades, the possession of which makes a man nearly invincible on the battlefield. The entire world is at war with itself – and has been for centuries since the Radiants turned against mankind. Kings strive to win more Shardblades, each secretly wishing to be the one who will finally unite all of mankind under a single throne.

On a world scoured down to the rock by terrifying hurricanes that blow through every few day a young spearman forced into the army of a Shardbearer, led to war against an enemy he doesn’t understand and doesn’t really want to fight.

What happened deep in mankind’s past?

Why did the Radiants turn against mankind, and what happened to the magic they used to wield?

The first in Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive epic fantasy series, Gollancz also publish the sequel, WORDS OF RADIANCE (covers below). Gollancz also publish the author’s Mistborn and Reckoners series, as well as a handful of stand-alone novels and novellas.

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Sanderson-SA2-WordsOfRadianceUKPB-Blog

Where to Start with Brandon Sanderson?


Tor.com recently published a handy primer for newcomers to Brandon Sanderson‘s rich bibliography…

Not many authors are quite as consistently prolific as Brandon Sanderson, and happily, he’s not showing any signs of slowing down any time soon! For those of you who might be curious about what all the fuss is about, I’ve put together this general introduction to his work. It covers a bit about Brandon himself, addresses the awesome fact that all of his epic fantasies are connected, and suggests some titles for first-time readers to start on…

Brandon is best known for writing sweeping, epic fantasy series — including the bestselling Mistborn series and the Stormlight Archive — as well as a couple of stand-alone titles, and a smattering of novellas and other series. Most of Brandon’s work is published in the UK by Gollancz. In addition to the Tor.com piece, here are some details for good novels to start with…

Sanderson-Elantris&WarbreakerUK-Blog

ELANTRIS

Elantris was built on magic and it thrived. But then the magic began to fade and Elantris began to rot. And now its shattered citizens face domination by a powerful Imperium motivated by dogged religious views. Can a young Princess unite the people of Elantris, rediscover the lost magic and lead a rebellion against the imperial zealots?

Brandon’s debut novel, it took fandom by storm. His other stand alone novel is WARBREAKER.

Sanderson-Mistborn-Blog

THE FINAL EMPIRE — Mistborn #1

What if the Dark Lord won?

A thousand years ago evil came to the land and has ruled with an iron hand ever since. The sun shines fitfully under clouds of ash that float down endlessly from the constant eruption of volcanoes. A dark lord rules through the aristocratic families and ordinary folk are condemned to lives in servitude, sold as goods, labouring in the ash fields.

But now a troublemaker has arrived and there is rumour of revolt. A revolt that depends on criminal that no-one can trust and a young girl who must master Allomancy – the magic that lies in all metals.

The Mistborn series was a huge word-of-mouth success in the US, and has been hugely popular in the UK ever since this novel was published. Other novels available now in the series include THE WELL OF ASCENSION, THE HERO OF AGES and THE ALLOY OF LAW. Two more novels in the series — SHADOWS OF SELF and BANDS OF MOURNING — are due to be published in 2015-16, by Gollancz in the UK.

Sanderson-SA1-WayOfKings-Blog

THE WAY OF KINGSStormlight Archive #1

According to mythology mankind used to live in The Tranquiline Halls. Heaven. But then the Voidbringers assaulted and captured heaven, casting out God and men. Men took root on Roshar, the world of storms. And the Voidbringers followed…

They came against man ten thousand times. To help them cope, the Almighty gave men powerful suits of armor and mystical weapons, known as Shardblades. Led by ten angelic Heralds and ten orders of knights known as Radiants, mankind finally won.

Or so the legends say. Today, the only remnants of those supposed battles are the Shardblades, the possession of which makes a man nearly invincible on the battlefield. The entire world is at war with itself – and has been for centuries since the Radiants turned against mankind. Kings strive to win more Shardblades, each secretly wishing to be the one who will finally unite all of mankind under a single throne.

On a world scoured down to the rock by terrifying hurricanes that blow through every few day a young spearman forced into the army of a Shardbearer, led to war against an enemy he doesn’t understand and doesn’t really want to fight.

What happened deep in mankind’s past?

Why did the Radiants turn against mankind, and what happened to the magic they used to wield?

The first novel in Brandon’s planned 10-book epic. The sequel, WORDS OF RADIANCE, is also out now.

Sanderson-ReckonersUK-Blog

STEELHEARTReckoners #1

Ten years ago, Calamity came. It was a burst in the sky that gave ordinary men and women extraordinary powers. The awed public started calling them Epics. But Epics are no friend of man. With incredible gifts came the desire to rule. And to rule man you must crush his wills.

Nobody fights the Epics… nobody but the Reckoners. A shadowy group of ordinary humans, they spend their lives studying Epics, finding their weaknesses, and then assassinating them.

And David wants in. He wants Steelheart – the Epic who is said to be invincible. The Epic who killed David’s father. For years, like the Reckoners, David’s been studying, and planning – and he has something they need. Not an object, but an experience.

He’s seen Steelheart bleed. And he wants revenge.

The first novel in a super-hero series, set in a dystopian future United States. MITOSIS and FIREFIGHT — a novella and sequel, respectively — are also out now.

Sanderson-TheRithmatist2014-TorUK-Blog

THE RITHMATIST

This is a fast-paced adventure for readers of all ages by bestselling author Brandon Sanderson, master of fantasy fiction. Here, in a school for the magically gifted, your talent could cost you your life…

Joel is fascinated by the magic of Rithmatics, but few have the gift and he is not one of them. Undaunted, he persuades Professor Fitch to teach him magical theory. Joel can’t infuse his protective lines and circles with power, or bring his chalk-drawn creatures to life, but he’s quick to master the underlying geometric principles. His unique skills will soon face an extraordinary test when top Rithmatist students are kidnapped from his Academy.

Since he’s not a magic user, Joel appears to be safe – but he’s desperate to investigate and prove himself. Then people start dying. However, can Joel really stop a killer alone? As even more students disappear, he realizes he’ll need the help of Rithmatist apprentice Melody. Together, they must race to find clues before the killer notices them – and takes them out too.

Published in the UK by Tor Books, this is the first in a planned YA fantasy, set in a post-apocalyptic world.

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

Cover: THE WAY OF KINGS by Brandon Sanderson


Sanderson-SA1-WayOfKingsUKPB-Blog

Above is the new cover for the trade paperback edition of Brandon Sanderson‘s THE WAY OF KINGS. The first novel in the author’s best-selling Stormlight Archive fantasy series, it was previously only available in hardcover and split into two paperback volumes. The book is due to be published on June 11th, 2015, by Gollancz. Here’s the synopsis…

According to mythology mankind used to live in The Tranquiline Halls. Heaven. But then the Voidbringers assaulted and captured heaven, casting out God and men. Men took root on Roshar, the world of storms. And the Voidbringers followed…

They came against man ten thousand times. To help them cope, the Almighty gave men powerful suits of armor and mystical weapons, known as Shardblades. Led by ten angelic Heralds and ten orders of knights known as Radiants, mankind finally won.

Or so the legends say. Today, the only remnants of those supposed battles are the Shardblades, the possession of which makes a man nearly invincible on the battlefield. The entire world is at war with itself – and has been for centuries since the Radiants turned against mankind. Kings strive to win more Shardblades, each secretly wishing to be the one who will finally unite all of mankind under a single throne.

On a world scoured down to the rock by terrifying hurricanes that blow through every few day a young spearman forced into the army of a Shardbearer, led to war against an enemy he doesn’t understand and doesn’t really want to fight.

What happened deep in mankind’s past?

Why did the Radiants turn against mankind, and what happened to the magic they used to wield?

The audiobook edition of the novel — read by Michael Kramer and Kate Redding — is also getting a new cover…

Sanderson-SA1-WayOfKingsUKAUD2-Blog

The second novel in the series, WORDS OF RADIANCE, is also published in the UK by Gollancz. Brandon is also the author of the best-selling and critically-acclaimed Mistborn fantasy series and the new super-hero Reckoners series, which includes STEELHEART, MITOSIS and FIREFIGHT (thus far), all of which are also published in the UK by Gollancz.

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.

A Splendid WAY OF KINGS Recreation…


The SFF community is one that is frequently characterised by strong sense of fandom and investment. Whether it be adaptations onto screen or stage, or even music homages (see, for example, the musical rendition of Ben Aaronovitch‘s RIVERS OF LONDON we shared a couple of months ago). In a truly stunning example of creative fandom, someone has now rendered the climactic battle from Brandon Sanderson‘s THE WAY OF KINGS in Lego! (Chapter 65, in case you want to wait until you’ve read that far!)

A hat-tip to Tor.com for directing our attention to Rick Martin‘s incredible interpretation. Here are just a couple of pictures…

SandersonB-SA1-WayOfKings-Lego1

Charge!

SandersonB-SA1-WayOfKings-Lego2

Photo Credits: Rick Martin

THE WAY OF KINGS is the first novel in Brandon’s Stormlight Archive epic fantasy series, published in the UK by Gollancz. The second book in the series, WORDS OF RADIANCE, was recently #2 on the Sunday Times Bestseller list for hardcover fiction. Here is the synopsis for the first book, in case you haven’t yet given it a try…

According to mythology mankind used to live in The Tranquiline Halls. Heaven. But then the Voidbringers assaulted and captured heaven, casting out God and men. Men took root on Roshar, the world of storms. And the Voidbringers followed…

They came against man ten thousand times. To help them cope, the Almighty gave men powerful suits of armor and mystical weapons, known as Shardblades. Led by ten angelic Heralds and ten orders of knights known as Radiants, mankind finally won.

Or so the legends say. Today, the only remnants of those supposed battles are the Shardblades, the possession of which makes a man nearly invincible on the battlefield. The entire world is at war with itself – and has been for centuries since the Radiants turned against mankind. Kings strive to win more Shardblades, each secretly wishing to be the one who will finally unite all of mankind under a single throne.

On a world scoured down to the rock by terrifying hurricanes that blow through every few day a young spearman forced into the army of a Shardbearer, led to war against an enemy he doesn’t understand and doesn’t really want to fight.

What happened deep in mankind’s past?

Why did the Radiants turn against mankind, and what happened to the magic they used to wield?

Sanderson-StormlightArchivesUK-Blog

Both THE WAY OF KINGS and WORDS OF RADIANCE are out now – the former now split into two paperbacks. The novels are published in the US by Tor Books.

Zeno represents Brandon Sanderson in the UK and Commonwealth, on behalf of the JABberwocky Literary Agency in New York.