"The Final Empire" is the first book in the Mistborn series by Brandon Sanderson. It is set in a world where a dark lord known as the Lord Ruler has oppressed the population for a thousand years. The story follows a young street urchin named Vin, who discovers her ability to use Allomancy, a magical system that allows individuals to manipulate metals for various effects. As Vin joins a group of rebels led by Kelsier, they plan to overthrow the Lord Ruler and bring freedom to the oppressed skaa. The novel explores themes of power, trust, and the struggle for justice in a world dominated by fear and tyranny.