Content levels
Trigger warnings
Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Themes
Synopsis
Three hundred years after the events of the Mistborn trilogy, Scadrial is now on the verge of modernity, with railroads to supplement the canals, electric lighting in the streets and the homes of the wealthy, and the first steel-framed skyscrapers racing for the clouds. The Bands of Mourning are the mythical metal minds owned by the Lord Ruler, said to grant anyone who wears them the powers that the Lord Ruler had at his command. Hardly anyone thinks they really exist. A kandra researcher has returned to Elendel with images that seem to depict the Bands, as well as writings in a language that no one can read. Waxillium Ladrian is recruited to travel south to the city of New Seran to investigate. Along the way he discovers hints that point to the true goals of his uncle Edwarn and the shadowy organization known as The Set.
Is The Bands of Mourning appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
This fantasy adventure contains action sequences with gunfights and magical combat, but violence is not graphically described. Political intrigue and conspiracy drive the plot; mature themes about power and corruption are explored.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include violence and political violence.
Publisher ages reflect reading level; our rating reflects content maturity — they can differ.
Who'll love this
Teen readers will love the mystery of tracking down legendary artifacts in a world with trains, guns, and unique metal-based magic powers.