Elantris

Elantris is a fantasy novel written by American fantasy and science fiction writer Brandon Sanderson. The book was published on April 21, 2005, by Tor Books and was Sanderson's first published book. The book gained generally positive reviews, and has been translated into multiple languages. Two related works, Hope of Elantris and The Emperor's Soul, have been released, and two additional novels in the series have been announced.

The story follows three main characters: Prince Raoden of Arelon, Princess Sarene of Teod, and the priest Hrathen of Fjorden. At the beginning of the story, Raoden is cursed by an ancient transformation known as the Shaod and secretly exiled to the city of Elantris just days before his betrothed, princess Sarene of Teod, arrives for their wedding. As Raoden tries to avoid gangs, keep his sanity, and unite the people of Elantris, Sarene must cope with the loss of her husband-to-be and try to save Arelon from Hrathen, a priest tasked with converting all of Arelon to the religion of Fjorden or dooming it to destruction.

Plot
The enigmatic land of Arelon, chronicling the intertwining destinies of three distinct perspectives: Prince Raoden, Princess Sarene, and Gyorn Hrathen. Raoden, the heir to the Arelonian throne, awakens to a devastating realization, he has been afflicted by the Shaod, a mysterious force that transforms its victims into grotesque beings shunned by society. Imprisoned within the desolate city of Elantris, Raoden forges an unbreakable bond with Galladon, an Elantrian scholar from the fallen kingdom of Duladen. Together, they witness the harrowing plight of the Elantrians, condemned to a life of squalor and despair. Driven by an unwavering belief in a better future, Raoden rallies his fellow Elantrians, establishing a nascent society that embraces hope and purpose. While Raoden struggles to mend the fractured spirit of his people, Princess Sarene arrives in Arelon as the betrothed of Raoden. Her mission is to forge an alliance between her kingdom of Teod and Arelon, a union that could safeguard both nations against the looming threat of the Fjorden Empire. Amidst the political intricacies, Sarene finds herself torn between her duty to her kingdom and her burgeoning feelings for Raoden. Meanwhile, Gyorn Hrathen, a skilled warrior from the Fjorden Empire, is dispatched to Arelon on a clandestine mission. As he investigates the growing unrest within the kingdom, Hrathen becomes an unwitting observer of the transformative events unfolding in Elantris. His encounter with the Elantrians and their enigmatic leader, Raoden, awakens within him a profound sense of empathy and a realization that the lines between right and wrong may not be as clear-cut as he once believed.

As Sarene ventured into Arelon, she found the nation plunged into sorrow following the untimely demise of Prince Raoden. Adhering to the provisions of their wedding agreement, she was obligated to remain in Arelon despite the lingering suspicions that shadowed Raoden's death. Deprived of a husband, Sarene immersed herself in Arelone politics, only to encounter resistance from King Iadon, who sought to confine her to the sidelines. Undeterred, Sarene forged alliances with discontented nobles, including her own uncle Kiin, who resented the king's rule. Together, they plotted to dethrone Iadon, while simultaneously, Hrathen embarked on a mission to convert Arelon to the Derethi faith. His rhetoric ignited hatred towards Elantris, aiming to sway the Arelenes against Shu-Korath. Hrathen targeted Telrii, a wealthy and influential noble, whom he believed could be manipulated into becoming a Derethi puppet on the throne. However, Hrathen's schemes faced constant obstacles from Dilaf, his overzealous odiv, who relentlessly opposed his every move.

Sensing the imminent threat that Hrathen poses to the realm of Arelon, Sarene takes decisive action to thwart his insidious schemes. She deviates from her initial plan to destabilize Iadon's rule, recognizing the potential for an even more disastrous outcome under Telrii's incompetent leadership. Instead, she strategically bolsters Iadon's authority, reducing the likelihood of widespread chaos. Furthermore, Sarene boldly ventures into the enigmatic city of Elantris, offering sustenance to its inhabitants in an attempt to dispel the prevailing fear and misconceptions about them. However, her well-intentioned act inadvertently disrupts Raoden's visionary plans for a transformed New Elantris. As Hrathen's machinations crumble before Sarene's unwavering determination, he resorts to desperate measures. Desperation drives him to consume a potent potion that mimics the transformative effects of the Shaod, a sinister force that corrupts and destroys. With Hrathen's plans teetering on the brink of collapse, Arelon braces itself for a perilous confrontation as the forces of darkness threaten to engulf the realm.

After multiple unsuccessful attempts, Raoden's unwavering determination finally persuades Shaor's gang to align with New Elantris. His exploration leads him to uncover a clandestine pool, a sanctuary of sorts where Elantrians, blessed with near-immortality, can voluntarily surrender their existence. As days pass, the New Elantrians witness the disheartening sight of Hrathen imprisoned within Elantris, undergoing a sinister 'healing' process that purges him of the Shaod and then liberates him. Beyond Elantris's confining walls, Sarene becomes suspicious of Iadon's peculiar conduct. Driven by concern, she discreetly follows him on a fateful night as he departs a ball prematurely. To her horror, she stumbles upon a chilling ritual: Iadon engaged in the merciless sacrifice of his palace staff as a macabre observance of the Jeskeri Mysteries. Apprehended upon discovery, Iadon met his demise by hanging himself within the confines of his prison cell.

Claiming his recovery from the Shaod was due to his unwavering devotion to Shu-Dereth, Hrathen cunningly regains dominance over Dilaf. The demise of Iadon further bolsters his position, as it clears the path for Telrii to ascend to the throne. Sarene, recognizing this, strategically plans to wed Duke Roial to solidify their joint claim to the throne, surpassing Telrii's legitimacy. However, on the day of the ceremony, Sarene seemingly succumbs to the Shaod, though it is revealed to be Hrathen's potion in disguise. This revelation nullifies Roial's claim, paving the way for Telrii to be crowned King of Arelon. Meanwhile, unbeknownst to Sarene, she encounters Raoden in Elantris and together, they unravel the mystery surrounding the malfunctioning AonDor, which has been inoperable for a decade. Despite their breakthrough in adding the chasm line to the Aons, AonDor's power remains diminished, leaving them puzzled and seeking further solutions.

In the face of adversity, Sarene's resilience echoed Hrathen's remarkable recovery from the shadow's affliction. She swiftly rejoined Roial, Kiin, and the assembled nobles, their resolve unwavering. United by a common goal, they concluded that Telrii's elimination was paramount for their nation's well-being. However, their plans were shattered by treachery within their ranks. As their meeting unfolded, Telrii arrived, accompanied by a formidable contingent of guards, determined to extinguish Roial's life. With lightning speed, Eondel stepped forward, driven by vengeance for the fallen Hrathen, and struck down Telrii in a swift and deadly blow. The assassination plunged Hrathen's carefully orchestrated scheme into chaos, leaving behind a tapestry of shattered hopes and the uncertain fate of their nation hanging in the balance.

Tensions escalate as the Elantric City Guards arrive at Kiin's house, leaving Sarene and her companions trembling with the fear of impending arrest for treason. However, an unexpected twist unfolds as the guards request that Raoden, despite his once-fractured appearance, assume the throne. Amidst the hurried coronation ceremony, Dilaf shatters the illusion that Raoden has meticulously maintained, revealing his true, Elantrian state. To Dilaf's dismay, the nobles' reaction is not one of shock or outrage but rather a collective sigh of dejection. Sarene's impassioned speech reignites their spirits, reminding them that Raoden is still the same man who cared for them before his exile.

Meanwhile, Dilaf's anger propels him into a sinister pursuit, lassoing Hrathen to track the arteth. As they venture into the market district, Hrathen bears witness to the eruption of Dakhor monks from their hidden tents. In the depths of Roial's mansion, Raoden is abruptly awakened by a commotion and descends the stairs only to encounter Dilaf, who swiftly renders him unconscious. Sarene's journey home from Elantris is abruptly interrupted when Dakhor monks ambush her carriage. However, Kiin and Lukel intervene, rescuing her and leading her to Kiin's manor, where they barricade themselves in. Dilaf's sinister plan becomes apparent as he arrives at the manor, using Raoden as bait to capture Sarene. Having fulfilled his purpose, Dilaf heartlessly skewers Raoden with his sword before abducting Sarene and Hrathen, taking them to the distant land of Teod.

Emerging from their concealed haven, Galladon and Karata drew near Raoden, their hearts heavy with the sight of a friend reduced to a mere echo. Galladon's resolve hardened as he vowed to grant Raoden the solace of the mountaintop pool, an act that would ultimately bring him the same respite. Karata, despite her reservations, acquiesced. As Galladon and Karata bore Raoden towards oblivion, a revelation surged through his mind, jolting him back to consciousness. Breaking free from their hold, Raoden raced down the mountain, desperation fueling his steps. With a staff in hand, he slashed a line in the ground, the chasm line, unlocking the latent power of the Dor. The explosion that followed unveiled Elantris and its neighboring cities as a colossal Aon Rao, revealing the interconnectedness that had been hidden beneath centuries of suffering.

While Shuden and Lukel rally against their captors, Dilaf schemes to break Teod's resolve by threatening Sarene's life before her father. Intercepted by Hrathen, this revelation ignites his resolve. Evading the monks, he escapes with Sarene, alerting Eventeo of Fjordell's invasion and Dilaf's sinister plot. Amidst the ensuing chaos, Lukel and his allies face defeat, but Raoden's arrival rekindles their hope. As Elantris and Arelon stand resolute, Ashe emerges bearing dire tidings of Teod's fate.

Chaos erupted in the streets of Teod as the vile assassin struck down the beloved Hrathen. Grief-stricken and determined to save his beloved, Raoden, aided by the now lucid Adien, teleported to the besieged city. Time was of the essence as Sarene faced imminent danger from the treacherous Dilaf. Amidst the turmoil, Galladon and the valiant Elantrians arrived as a beacon of hope, skillfully deploying AonDor to vanquish more than fifty Dakhor monks. Just when Raoden and Sarene's safety seemed secure, Dilaf set his sights on the innocent Eventeo, forcing Raoden into a desperate pursuit. However, fate had an unexpected twist in store. Hrathen, miraculously reappearing, unveiled his long-hidden secret as a partial Dakhor. With newfound strength, he confronted Dilaf, terminating his treacherous reign before succumbing to his own wounds.

With the conflict extinguished and Teod holding its ground against the Fjordell army, Sarene's heart was filled with both joy and sorrow. Her long-awaited union with Raoden lay just ahead, but the memory of those lost lingered heavily. She refused to let another moment pass without securing her future with the man she loved. With unwavering determination, she marched Raoden down the aisle, where they exchanged vows, binding their souls together. A week of mourning followed, a solemn tribute to the countless lives sacrificed in the battles of Arelon, Elantris, and Teod. Sarene stood as a beacon of strength, honoring Hrathen's memory. She implored all present to remember him as the true savior who prioritized the greater good over his own aspirations, leaving an enduring legacy of hope and sacrifice.

Characters

 * Prince Raoden: the prince of Arelon, is transformed into an Elantrian at the beginning of the book. After the Reod, Elantrians were cursed with dark splotches on their skin and hair falling out. The cursed cannot die or be killed except by drastic measures, such as burning or beheading. A major part of the curse is that their bodies can not repair themselves, so they continue to feel the pain of a stubbed toe or bruise forever. Over time the minor injuries accumulate, eventually driving them all insane. Elantrians do not need to eat, but they feel torturous hunger when they don't. Once Raoden is transformed, he is immediately sent to Elantris in secret while his father pretends he has suddenly died. Raoden's storyline centers on his efforts to retain his sanity and improve the Elantrian way of life beyond the anarchy to which it succumbed when Elantris fell. He does this by displaying amazing skills as a leader and getting the Elantrians to focus on work, as opposed to their constant suffering. He also manages to calm and disperse or incorporate the gangs which were terrorizing new Elantrians upon their arrival.
 * Princess Sarene: the princess of Teod and would have been Raoden's political bride had he not been cursed. Raoden has never personally met her, so it comes as a surprise to her when she discovers upon her arrival in Arelon that they are considered to have been married if either of them dies before the wedding. Widow of a supposedly dead prince and a new member of the mostly ill-suited Arelon nobility, she struggles to find out what exactly is going in all affairs concerning the nobility of Arelon, the downtrodden common people of Arelon and Elantris, and what exactly happened to her now deceased husband. Sarene's storyline follows her attempts to stabilize and improve the monarchy and political system, which encouraged nobles to mistreat the peasants. While spending her time in Arelon, she learns of Gyorn Hrathen, and relies upon her knowledge and skills to prevent his religious revolution.
 * Gyorn Hrathen: a Derethi gyorn, otherwise known as a high-ranking priest, arrives in Arelon with a mandate to convert the country to the Derethi religion within three months' time, or his religion's armies will come to destroy the entire nation of Arelon. He parades around the nation to spread propaganda with the intention to make Arelenes hate Elantris and their religion, Shu-Korath, and, in turn, convert to Derethi. He takes advantage of the corrupt nobility of the region in order to reach his end goal, often holding secret meetings with them that involve bribery. Hrathen's storyline focuses on his efforts towards politically maneuvering the Arelene aristocracy, with the ultimate intention being to place a converted Derethi on the throne. The novel occasionally focuses on his inward struggles as he feels he must come to terms with the religion he is supposed to believe, for even he questions his work ethic at times.

Aons
Aons are central to the book's plot and are the means by which the Elantrians perform magic. Many characters' names are variations on the Aons, as is customary in this fantasy world. The images of the many Aons can be found in the back of the book. Raoden rediscovers many of the Aons while in Elantris, preserved in scrolls that have not been consumed by the decay of the city. He learns to invoke the Aons, but finds they have lost their power, which is the ultimate cause of Elantris' collapse. Near the end of the book, Sarene helps Raoden discover that the shapes of the Aons coincide with physical landmarks and natural features located around the country. A massive fissure in the earth that now cuts through the country 'altered' these landmarks, which in turn caused the Aons to lose their power. By 'reconstructing' the Aons to now incorporate the fissure in their design, Raoden restores the Aons' power. After realizing that Elantris and its surrounding cities are just one big Aon, he draws a giant line to represent the fissure, which restores Elantris and the Elantrians to their former glory.

The Cosmere
Like many of Sanderson's other novels and collections, including Mistborn, The Stormlight Archive, Warbreaker, and Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection, Elantris takes place within a universe known as the Cosmere. Although the different novels, novellas, and series within the Cosmere are largely separate narratives, they are related, and "Easter egg" references to other Cosmere works are common. A mysterious figure named Hoid appears at some point in each of Sanderson's full novels and series, including in the last chapter of Elantris. His origins and motives remain unclear.

Releases
Elantris was published by Tor Books in hardcover on April 21, 2005, and it was Sanderson's first published book. Coinciding with the general release, the Science Fiction Book Club released a hardcover edition in May 2005. The Tor mass market paperback was released on May 30, 2006, and the ebook followed in April 2007. In October 2015, a "tenth anniversary author's definitive edition" was released in trade paperback and hardcover, containing "10,000 words of additional content". In December 2015, the Elantris Tenth Anniversary Dragonsteel Leather Edition was released, which included full-color pages of Elantris-related art, new maps, and two-tonal typeset.

It has been translated into Bulgarian, Chinese, Czech, French, Dutch, German, Hebrew, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Romanian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish.

Audiobooks
GraphicAudio released Elantris as a dramatized audio production on April 1, 2009. It was adapted and produced with a full cast, narrator, sound effects and music. Recorded Books released a digital audio book of Elantris: Tenth Anniversary Author's Definitive Edition on October 7, 2015, narrated by Jack Garrett.

Reception
Elantris gained generally positive reviews. Orson Scott Card, American novelist, critic, public speaker, essayist, and columnist, states on his website that "Elantris is the finest novel of fantasy to be written in many years. Brandon Sanderson has created a truly original world of magic and intrigue, and with the rigor of the best science fiction writers he has made it real at every level."

Kirkus Reviews praised the book because it was not the first book in a series: "An epic fantasy novel that is (startlingly) not Volume One of a Neverending Sequence... [with] an unusually well-conceived system of magic... the story has some grip and it's a tremendous relief to have fruition in a single volume... A cut above the same-old." Publishers Weekly praised Sanderson's fantasy debut as being outstanding and free of the usual genre clichés, noting that it offers something for everyone, including mystery, magic, romance, politics, religious conflict and robust characters.

Sequels
Sanderson has discussed an official sequel to Elantris, though he is not sure when it might be written. He has stated that it would take place ten years after the current book's events, and center around some of its very minor characters. He later announced plans for two books following Elantris, with Kiin's children being the main characters in Elantris Two.

The Hope of Elantris
An e-book short story was released in 2007 entitled The Hope of Elantris. It was initially for sale on Amazon, but Sanderson released it on his own site when the contract with Amazon ran out. Sanderson describes on his website that the events that take place in the e-book happen concurrently with events in Elantris, hence he suggests reading Elantris first for risk of spoiling certain aspects of the story. The inspiration for the story comes from a story told to him by his wife Emily when they were dating in 2006.

The Emperor's Soul
In 2013, Sanderson wrote the novella titled The Emperor's Soul that takes place in the world of Elantris, but in a very different region. Shai is a thief and practitioner of magical forgery who has been arrested and sentenced to death. She is given 100 days to forge a new soul for the Emperor, who is in a coma following an assassination attempt.

Sanderson notes that the reader does not need to read Elantris to understand the plot.