Fantasy · Science fiction · Young adult
The Black Prism
In a world where drafters turn coloured light into solid matter, the Prism who keeps the peace between rival powers learns that he has a son he never knew. A looming war and a hidden threat close in on both of them.
Facts last checked 2026-10-16
- First published
- 2010
- Pace
- Medium
- Length
- Long
- Pages
- 739
- Format
- Book 1 of 5 in Lightbringer
Read this if you like epic fantasy with a distinctive magic system and a powerful ruler who may be hiding a lot.
Skip this if you want a gentle fantasy, as the book includes a lot of war and political betrayal.
The feel
Content warnings
Also reported by Hardcover readers:
Quick answers about The Black Prism
- What is The Black Prism about?
- In a world where drafters turn coloured light into solid matter, the Prism who keeps the peace between rival powers learns that he has a son he never knew. A looming war and a hidden threat close in on both of them.
- Who should read The Black Prism?
- Read it if you like epic fantasy with a distinctive magic system and a powerful ruler who may be hiding a lot. Skip it if you want a gentle fantasy, as the book includes a lot of war and political betrayal.
- How long and how fast is The Black Prism?
- It is a medium-paced, long read of about 739 pages, first published in 2010.
- Does The Black Prism have content warnings?
- Content we flag: Violence, Death, War.
- Can I borrow The Black Prism for free?
- Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends The Black Prism; the borrow button above searches it for you.
- What should I read after The Black Prism?
- Readers who liked it often move on to Mistborn: The Final Empire, The Way of Kings, The Lies of Locke Lamora.
Your shelf
Saved in this browser only. Open my shelf
Where to get it
| Store | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Borrow free | ||
| Libby / OverDrive | Free with a library card | Borrow free with Libby from Libby / OverDrive |
| Print, new | ||
| Amazon | Check price | Buy new from Amazon |
| Ebook | ||
| Kobo | Check price | Buy ebook from Kobo |
| Google Play Books | Check price | Buy ebook from Google Play Books |
| Audiobook | ||
| Audible | Check price | Buy audiobook from Audible |
Prices appear here as retailer feeds are connected. Where none is shown, check the store. Links open the store in a new tab.
Some store links, including Kobo, are affiliate links: we may earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. Library links are never affiliate links. How this works
Share this pick
Because you might love it
If you loved The Black Prism
Fantasy
