sanderson is probably the best writer that i've ever found in terms of creating characters that you care about, and keeping it interesting. elantris and all three mistborn books also probably have some of the best 'hosnap, didn't see that coming' endings that i've read recently. particularly number 2. his planning throughout the series is so evident - right down to stuff like the spikes in the inquisitors, and sazed's personality, etc. it's awesome. they're also relatively quick reads - they're not these enormous books, they're only like 400 pages each at max, i think. good for a lazy weekend (or, like me, for reading during pit rehearsal for the school musical).