Elantris
- First published 2005
- 592 pages
- English
The city of Elantris was once a beacon of magic, its inhabitants god-like beings transformed by a radiant power. But a decade ago, the magic died. Now, the city is a prison, a decaying tomb for its cursed, leper-like residents. The divine transformation has become a horrifying affliction, and anyone can be its next victim. Prince Raoden of Arelon is the latest to be taken. Exiled to the dark city and declared dead, he must fight to bring hope to a populace consumed by unending pain and hunger.
Arriving for her political marriage to the prince, the brilliant Princess Sarene of Teod is instead met with news of her husband's death and a marriage contract that binds her to a dead man and a foreign kingdom. Alone in a nation on the brink of collapse, she must navigate treacherous political currents and the looming threat of a fanatical priest sent to convert the kingdom or condemn it to ruin. As Raoden attempts to build a new society from the ashes within Elantris, Sarene fights to save Arelon from enemies without, their separate struggles converging toward a secret that could either redeem the city or destroy their world entirely.
Arriving for her political marriage to the prince, the brilliant Princess Sarene of Teod is instead met with news of her husband's death and a marriage contract that binds her to a dead man and a foreign kingdom. Alone in a nation on the brink of collapse, she must navigate treacherous political currents and the looming threat of a fanatical priest sent to convert the kingdom or condemn it to ruin. As Raoden attempts to build a new society from the ashes within Elantris, Sarene fights to save Arelon from enemies without, their separate struggles converging toward a secret that could either redeem the city or destroy their world entirely.
- Genres
- Fiction › Speculative fiction › Fantasy › Epic fantasyFiction › Speculative fiction › Post-apocalyptic fictionFiction › Speculative fiction › Science fictionFiction › Speculative fiction › Horror & supernaturalFiction › Speculative fiction › Dystopian fiction
- Themes
- Politics & power › Royalty Magic
- Mood
- Romantic
- Where and when
- Big city
- Style
- Form: Short stories
What readers say
4.16
376K ratings across the web 8 in 10 readers loved it
The reviews frequently praise the book for its exceptionally unique and original concept, particularly highlighting the captivating and cursed city at its heart. Readers were enthralled by the intricate politics and deep religious exploration that form the backbone of the narrative, finding these elements to be both complex and engrossing. Many lauded the main characters, describing them as well-developed and distinct, especially the optimistic prince, the witty and strong princess, and the morally complex high priest. Despite some criticisms regarding pacing, the storytelling is often described as captivating, drawing readers into a dense web of intrigue and magic. Reviewers consistently acknowledge this as a remarkably strong debut novel, showcasing the author's immense creativity and laying the groundwork for his future works.
However, the book is frequently noted for its slow pacing, with a significant portion of the story focusing on intricate setup before a more action-packed climax. Many readers, particularly established fans, consider it the author's weakest work when compared to his later, more polished novels, citing less refined prose and a somewhat constricted scope in its world-building. The magic system, while conceptually interesting, is often criticized for its delayed introduction and sometimes muddy explanations, with key elements appearing late in the book. Some reviewers found certain main characters, like the prince, to be overly perfect, and the princess occasionally annoying or too capable, leading to dialogue that felt less engaging. A few also mentioned minor plot holes or an overreliance on convenient resolutions.
Despite these points, the general consensus is that this book is a worthwhile read, often recommended as an excellent entry point for those new to the author's fantasy universe. It serves as a compelling appetizer, showcasing the author's potential and unique vision, with many noting that his subsequent works only build upon this strong foundation. This novel is highly recommended for fans of high fantasy who appreciate stories rich in intricate political maneuvering and deep religious themes, as well as those who enjoy a slow-burn narrative focused on character development and world exploration. Readers seeking fast-paced action from the outset, however, might find its deliberate pacing less to their taste.
However, the book is frequently noted for its slow pacing, with a significant portion of the story focusing on intricate setup before a more action-packed climax. Many readers, particularly established fans, consider it the author's weakest work when compared to his later, more polished novels, citing less refined prose and a somewhat constricted scope in its world-building. The magic system, while conceptually interesting, is often criticized for its delayed introduction and sometimes muddy explanations, with key elements appearing late in the book. Some reviewers found certain main characters, like the prince, to be overly perfect, and the princess occasionally annoying or too capable, leading to dialogue that felt less engaging. A few also mentioned minor plot holes or an overreliance on convenient resolutions.
Despite these points, the general consensus is that this book is a worthwhile read, often recommended as an excellent entry point for those new to the author's fantasy universe. It serves as a compelling appetizer, showcasing the author's potential and unique vision, with many noting that his subsequent works only build upon this strong foundation. This novel is highly recommended for fans of high fantasy who appreciate stories rich in intricate political maneuvering and deep religious themes, as well as those who enjoy a slow-burn narrative focused on character development and world exploration. Readers seeking fast-paced action from the outset, however, might find its deliberate pacing less to their taste.
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Details & editions
- This edition
- GOLLANCZ, 2025
- ISBN
- 9781399631402
- ISBN-10
- 1399631403
- Language
- English
Original edition Elantris Originally published in 2005 · English · Tor Books
