The Name of the Wind

Kingkiller Chronicle, Book 1

By: Patrick Rothfuss

Narrated by: Nick Podehl

Length: 27 hrs and 55 mins

Publisher's summary

Discover #1 New York Times bestselling Patrick Rothfuss’ epic fantasy series, The Kingkiller Chronicle.

“I just love the world of Patrick Rothfuss.” (Lin-Manuel Miranda)

“He’s bloody good, this Rothfuss guy.” (George R. R. Martin)

“Rothfuss has real talent.” (Terry Brooks)

Over 1 Million Copies Sold!

Day One: The Name of the Wind

My name is Kvothe.

I have stolen princesses back from sleeping barrow kings. I burned down the town of Trebon. I have spent the night with Felurian and left with both my sanity and my life. I was expelled from the University at a younger age than most people are allowed in. I tread paths by moonlight that others fear to speak of during day. I have talked to Gods, loved women, and written songs that make the minstrels weep.

You may have heard of me.

So begins a tale unequaled in fantasy literature - the story of a hero told in his own voice. It is a tale of sorrow, a tale of survival, a tale of one man’s search for meaning in his universe, and how that search, and the indomitable will that drove it, gave birth to a legend.

Praise for The Kingkiller Chronicle:

“The best epic fantasy I read last year.... He’s bloody good, this Rothfuss guy.” (George R. R. Martin, New York Times bestselling author of A Song of Ice and Fire)

“Rothfuss has real talent, and his tale of Kvothe is deep and intricate and wondrous.” (Terry Brooks, New York Times bestselling author of Shannara)

"It is a rare and great pleasure to find a fantasist writing...with true music in the words." (Ursula K. Le Guin, award-winning author of Earthsea)

"The characters are real and the magic is true.” (Robin Hobb, New York Times bestselling author of Assassin’s Apprentice)

"Masterful.... There is a beauty to Pat's writing that defies description." (Brandon Sanderson, New York Times bestselling author of Mistborn)

©2007 by Patrick Rothfuss. (P)2009 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Critic reviews

“The originality of Rothfuss's outstanding debut fantasy, the first of a trilogy, lies less in its unnamed imaginary world than in its precise execution…As absorbing on a second reading as it is on the first, this is the type of assured, rich first novel most writers can only dream of producing. The fantasy world has a new star.” (Publishers Weekly, starred review)

“Fantasy readers-a notoriously discerning group-tend to dole out praise judiciously, which makes the reception of The Name of the Wind, the first volume in Patrick Rothfuss's The Kingkiller Chronicle, that much more remarkable. Critics are already throwing around comparisons to some of the biggest names in fantasy, including George R. R. Martin, Tad Williams, the recently deceased Robert Jordan, and even Tolkien. (Bookmarks Magazine)

“New fantasy authors are usually overhyped, and it's rare to find one who writes with such assurance and narrative skill right from the start. I was reminded of Ursula LeGuin, George R. R. Martin, and J. R. R. Tolkien, but never felt that Rothfuss was imitating anyone. Like the writers he clearly admires, he's an old-fashioned storyteller working with traditional elements, but his voice is his own. I haven't been so gripped by a new fantasy series in years. It's certain to become a classic." (Lisa Tuttle, The Times)

Great book, fantastic narrator

Nick Podehl is a narrative genius. His personification of all of the different characters and events, his pacing and cadences, brings this book to life wonderfully. The best audiobook I've heard.

Just What I Wanted!

I've been wanting to make it through this book for ages, and I'm thrilled now that I've finished it. A rich world and characters are met by a wonderful story and engrossing writing that brings even sí please things like the sound of a nervous breath to life. Simply said, this book is a masterpiece. beyond that, the narration is excellent! each character somehow has their own distinct voice and way of speaking, and I truly felt each unique thread of them all as the narrator masterfully spun conversations through fantastic accents, dialects, and intonation. take the 27 hours and enjoy them! You won't be disappointed.

Slow to start but good once it gets rolling

This is a book I had to start twice. The first time I just was not getting into it. I am glad I gave it a second chance, though. Once the story really gets rolling it is enjoyable and interesting. Well worth the read/listen.
Audible 20 Review Sweepstakes Entry

Ridiculous

An amazing book by an amazing author. loved every min. of the story and the narrator was very good, great voice work and unmatched control that has to be present to present this amazing work of art.

Wonderful story, excellent narration

Would you consider the audio edition of The Name of the Wind to be better than the print version?

Time management, on the road a lot and I am able to listen to books and drive.

What did you like best about this story?

Character working to achieve success no matter what gets in his way.

Have you listened to any of Nick Podehl’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

no

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Characters survival instinct

best epic ever!

well from the moment I finished the first chapter I did not want to put this down chapter after chapter he poured out wonderful words it really was the best book I've ever read also the first book. lol jk

Read it, bought it, bought the audiobook.

I liked the book, and now I like the narrator, bought the second book, now I am eagerly waiting for the third book.

Simply the Best

I found the beginning a bit slow, but after the first few chapters I was hooked. This is a wonderful fantasy -- the plot is fascinating, with plenty of action, the characters are engaging, the narration is excellent. It was simply the best book I have listened to in a long time.

can't await to listen to the next book

very good. hopefully the next book will be just as good. wubba lubba dub dub

One of the best fantasy books i've ever read.

What did you love best about The Name of the Wind?

For me, the best part was the perfection that went into Kvothe and Denna's relationship.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Name of the Wind?

The 7 words that will make a girl love you.

What about Nick Podehl’s performance did you like?

He did a great job at changing up the tone, pitch, and accent of each character.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

no. no. no. This book is way too long to listen to in one sitting. WAY too long. But the book is quite good at providing natural breaks(intermissions in the the story).