Defending Elysium
Start with "Defending Elysium" to begin the Cosmere Short Fiction. It is the essential series starter and provides the necessary foundation for the rest of the books.
🟡 Optional side story — not required for main plot
This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.
Verdict Insight: This is the essential series starter that introduces the Brandon Sanderson's core world and character arcs. It is required reading for all new fans.
SourceArcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection
Book #2 of 4 in Series
Complete Series Reading Order
Publication Order
Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.
Chronological Order
May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.
Order Confidence
Why this order?
Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.
Why This Order Is Confusing
Many reading lists for Cosmere Short Fiction conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I skip reading Defending Elysium?
This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.
Can I read Defending Elysium before other books in the series?
Yes. Defending Elysium is an optional side story and can be read at any time without spoiling the main series plot.
Is Defending Elysium required reading for the Cosmere Short Fiction?
No, it is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not essential to the central storyline.
What comes after Defending Elysium in the reading order?
The next recommended book after Defending Elysium is Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection (Book #2).
