Book Title:                  Firefight (The Reckoners Series, #02)
Author:                         Brandon Sanderson
Number of pages:   432

Synopsis:

They told David it was impossible–that even The Reckoners had never killed a High Epic. Yet, Steelheart–invincible, immortal, unconquerable–is dead. And he died by David’s hand.

Eliminating Steelheart was supposed to make life more simple. Instead, it only made David realize he has questions. Big ones. And there’s no one in Newcago who can give him the answers he needs.

Babylon Restored, the old borough of Manhattan, has possibilities, though. Ruled by the mysterious High Epic, Regalia, David is sure Babylon Restored will lead him to what he needs to find. And while entering another city oppressed by a High Epic despot is a gamble, David’s willing to risk it. Because killing Steelheart left a hole in David’s heart. A hole where his thirst for vengeance once lived. Somehow, he filled that hole with another Epic–Firefight. And he’s willing to go on a quest darker, and more dangerous even, than the fight against Steelheart to find her, and to get his answers.

(re: Goodreads @ Firefight by Brandon Sanderson)

Should this book be picked up? the tl;dr spoiler-less review:

– I recommend reading the Mitosis novella before Firefight. (It isn’t game changing to not have read it but it will help in understanding some references.)
– The world-building is pretty darn creative—it beats the setting in Steelheart if I’m being honest—with plenty of imaginative detailing that continues to exude a cinematic feel. Basically: more epics, more metaphors, more awesome.
– Fast-paced read driven by continual action and atmospheric tension in exploring an unfamiliar landscape even while delving into Phaedrus’ and Firefight’s back story.
– While some minor characters are difficult to connect to, David’s progression of growth remains solid and can be easily rooted for (assuming you can stomach his bad metaphors).
– Reminder notes throughout the text regarding concepts/magic systems from Steelheart. (A reread isn’t necessary.)
– Rating: 4.38/5

Initial Thoughts

It was Boxing Day. There were ordinary sales and satisfactory crowds. Into Indigo I go. Paperbacks, hardcovers, Firefight, Moleskins. Moving on—wait, wtf, huh, why is it out so—?!!?! Seriously though, thanks to Indigo for selling this book early. It made this shopping day well worth the crowded mess in malls.

Quotes will not be included in this review until well after the release date—which is tomorrow, January 6, 2015—so go ahead and get yourself a copy.

Disclaimer: Potential spoilers inherent to this review from here onward.

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