Brandon Sanderson Expands Into Bold New Sci‑Fi Territory

Brandon Sanderson is stepping outside the Cosmere once again. The bestselling fantasy author has unveiled Tailored Realities, a science fiction collection that trades intricate magic systems for time fractures, simulated worlds, and deeply human mysteries.

Released in late 2025, Tailored Realities gathers 10 stories spanning 25 years of Sanderson’s career. While one tale nods to dragons, the bulk of the collection dives into simulation theory, quantum mechanics, and humanity’s place in a vast, uncertain universe.

A Laboratory for Big Sci‑Fi Ideas

Sanderson has long blurred the line between fantasy and science fiction. His rule‑bound magic systems, shaped by a love of tabletop role‑playing games, effectively function as alternate physics. That approach built the foundation of the Cosmere — and recently fueled headlines about an Apple TV deal for Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere universe.

But Tailored Realities takes a lighter touch. Instead of constructing elaborate mechanics from scratch, Sanderson leans on established sci‑fi concepts and focuses on character. The result feels intimate and experimental.

Standout novella “Moment Zero” follows two investigators moving through time in opposite directions — one from a post‑apocalyptic future, the other from the past — converging on a single catastrophic event. The story nods to wormholes and quantum entanglement, yet keeps the spotlight on fractured partnerships and personal sacrifice.

Elsewhere, “Perfect State” explores a god‑emperor ruling a custom‑built simulated world, only to have his reality destabilized by an unexpected challenger. Fan‑favorite “Snapshot” returns to a simulated past day used to solve crimes, while stories like “Firstborn” and “Dreamer” push into cloning ethics and body‑swapping horror.

Beyond the Cosmere

The collection arrives as Sanderson continues expanding his publishing slate. He recently shared candid reflections on craft and career pressure in a discussion about imposter syndrome, underscoring just how relentlessly he writes.

Tailored Realities also forms part of his wider Secret Projects line, with future expansions heading to a March 2026 crowdfunding campaign. At Dragonsteel Nexus 2025, the book received a live release celebration tied to charity efforts through the Lightweaver Foundation.

For readers who love Sanderson’s intricate systems, this collection offers something different: fewer rulebooks, more existential questions. And for sci‑fi fans curious about what happens when a master world‑builder loosens the reins, Tailored Realities feels like the start of a bold new chapter.