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)

This is one of the gems in the Audible system.

As the title says, this book is easily among the cream at the top of the Audible system. Saying that the writing is witty, the characters are deep, or the plot is well thought out is to give crude disservice. This story is song in motion, a sculpted work of artistry. It will seize you from the first moments and hold you to the end.

As with any first of a series, it's very easy to skeptically wonder if it's a flash in the pan book with cash cow milk machine sequels. Let me just say two things about that. First, Wise Man's Fear is even better. Secondly, somebody needs to chain Patrick Rothfuss to a furnace in a basement somewhere until Day 3 is finished (just kidding, Patrick! We'd rather it was as polished as this, take your time!). Seriously, Patrick. Hurry up. We want to know how the story ends. We want to know if it's really a tragedy, or if it's something completely new. Seeing your work so far, I wouldn't doubt.

Depth, story, character devlpmnt & solid narrator

This story is intricate and full of adventure. The main character is interesting and believable. Highly intelligent but not so much so that you wouldn't believe this could be a real person. the action makes sense and is purposeful and tasteful, not just violence for the sake of itself. the narration is right on point. He keeps it interesting without being overly dramatic. I'm highly impressed by this whole production. This is my first review ever after listening to over 65 books on audible if that says anything.

Magical and relaxing

Not the action adventure I was expecting but it was a good calm book with a great story.

Excellent Novel

I read a number of reviews before starting this book. Mostly people praised the author and the story. A few were not impressed and had some negative things to say. One review that stood out to me was that this is a book about a man that is perfect at everything, and that was the reviewers only complaint. And, I would agree to a point. The protagonist is a savant when it comes to his craft, but that's not what this book is about. The book is about his life story. The ups and downs if his interpersonal life. And, that is what makes this an excellent book. The characters make human decisions resulting in realistic consequences. I enjoyed exploring the depth of each character, and there interactions with the protagonist. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys novels such as The Hobbit, Dune, The Stormlight Archive, or The Lord of the Rings. Two thumbs up for The Name of the Wind.

Very Good

I'm not a big fan of the narrator but Patrick Rothfuss did an excellent job with this book. I really enjoyed The Name of the Wind.

Breath of Fresh Air

I absolutely loved listening to this. So wonderfully written and well performed. You truly escape into this story. Rich storytelling, engaging characters, and it moves at an ideal pace - not breakneck and it never stagnated. I can't wait to move on with the story.

An amazingly well written and captivating story

This is a very creative an well written story. Highly recommended. If you read the other reviews of this book you will see that it is part of a series. What I had not realize was that the 3rd and final book of the series is not yet published, and it may be some time before it is available.

Amazing

I read all the reviews about this series I had to see if I agreed with them. After listening to both books constantly, like an obsessed crazy woman, I would say I do agree. The only problem now is waiting for the next one. I am going through withdrawals !!!!

Good!

The first half of the book was stellar. I was completely engrossed. I love the practical magic angle. Things were not predictable. Then the plot wanders around a bit and I found things near end a little unsatisfying. I look forward tot he next book, however.

Nick Podehl's narration was spot on. I have no idea why some reviewers disliked him, I'm going to look for other books read by him.

So Glad I read this

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Definitely if they like fantasy fiction

What did you like best about this story?

Kvothe, he's not perfect, he is consistent in his major flaw, but it's a believable one. I still care about him and what happens to him, I still don't "know him" as well as I'd like, and that's what keeps me interested.

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

I hate the "opening and closing" of the book. The "silence" quote. It annoys me but, oh well, the rest is all worth it.