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What do you do with a young boy who rivals the brightest adults in intellect and wit.  Who masters things at ages half that of the average man.  A boy exposed to just about all walks of life before he even reaches the age of twelve.  More importantly what do you do with yourself if you're that boy. An average gifted person might succumb to their ego and use their talents to become wealthy.  Others more intrigued with the universe might choose a very different path. 

The Name Of The Wind is a tale about coming of age, heartbreak, folly, regret, and legendary deeds.  The tale of a lone exceptionally brilliant boy who loses everything he ever had and his struggles as he tries to grow into a man and  find purpose and meaning in his life. 

In a lowly town on a trade route between two kingdoms resides an aging humble innkeeper.  A man with a secret and a story to tell..if he ever would tell his tale to anyone.  He has gone by many names in his life to conceal his true identity.  An arcanist and studied in all fields, he silently hunts demons in the night,  or at least that's what the people believe them to be.  He knows better. He's seen and done things few have or ever will understand.  He once struck down a man with such ferocity that to this day the cobblestone where he stood is shattered and said to be unmendable. 

Now finally after all these years he breaks his silence to tell his tale to a lone chronicler.  Not the myths and legends written about him.  But his personal story. The real story.  A painful story and far more human than any folklore whispered around campfires about him. 

A quote from page 58 of The Name Of The Wind sums up this mans mystique and accomplishments perfectly. 

*"My name is Kvothe*

*I have stolen princesses back from sleeping barrow kings.  I have 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 the day.  I have talked to Gods, loved women, and written songs that make minstrels weep.*

*You may have heard of me."*

I was walking through Barnes and Noble a few months ago looking for a fresh book to read for my birthday.  A little mousy girl came up to me and asked if she could be of assistance.  After staring at lack luster Star Wars titles for half an hour I was open to some fresh ideas and said "es actually.  I love fantasy novels and need to find a really good one."  Her eyes widened and she ran off and brought me back a beast of a book that was 700 pages long. "Omg this book is amazing!" She exclaimed.  I read the quote on the back.  The same one I provided above and I knew I would need to check this book out. 

Patrick Rothfuss the author of the book has managed to tell a story with some common tropes from a perfectly fresh perspective that rivals those of literary greats such as George R.R. Martin and Gene Wolfe.   The very first paragraph is a stunning display of the mans talent with words, multi level texturing and foreshadowing.  The dialogue is both buttery smooth and visually engaging.  The stories relayed are both emotionally moving and often heartbreaking.  Its made very clear through subtlety in the first few chapters that we are witnessing an exceptional man.  We soon learn that he was not only a hero but a legend and as reported by some a villain.  But through it all a very down to earth and relatable human being and nothing like the legends.  You hurt when he loses and you cheer when he wins.    

I recommend it to anyone who savours really well written fantasy.   Even if you're not into fantasy thats ok as it doesnt really sit neatly into any particular genre.  The fantasy and magical elements are subtle and clever, but take a background to the actual story of an orphaned boy who become a legend.  There are no superfluous characters or passages.  And there are hidden connections and hints throughout the book that are meaningful ties to later passages that you dont catch on the first read through.  

This is not a book for the faint of heart.  It will take you to the depths of despair, pity and at times elation. There are several tear stained pages in my worn paperback book.  Its not a quick or light read but well worth it.

Book Title: The Name Of The Wind
Author: Patrick Rothfuss
Published by DAW Books

5/5 Stars - An absolute masterpiece.

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