Monday, July 27, 2015

The Slow Regard of Silent Things - Patrick Rothfuss

Book Title: The Slow Regard of Silent Things
Series: The Kingkiller Chronicles
Author: Patrick Rothfuss
Amazon Link: Click here


Not your ordinary novella. If you're a fan of the Kingkiller Chronicle you may enjoy this book. It's definitely different, but in a very good way. It doesn't serve to further the Kvothe story, what it does do is adds extra dimension to the world and characters. One character in particular, Auri. I loved her in the original storyline and I'm very happy to see more about what her life is like down in the Underthing, as well as her motivations. This novella gives just the barest hints of her background and her potential for real power, but as you read you come to understand just how damaged an individual she is. Her obsessions and perceptions of the world around her are exceptionally insighful. It deserves a re-read because I am sure there are so many nuggets of info hidden in this story that will affect the larger plot of Kingkiller Chronicle. I really enjoyed it. I love Auri just a little bit more for reading it.

Bonus link: Tor's extensive re-read of The Kingkiller Chronicles is found here. Read the books then follow the re-read to really benefit from the details layered into the novels & novella.
Spotify Song for this book: Wuthering Heights by Kate Bush

Friday, July 24, 2015

The Name of the Wind - Patrick Rothfuss

Book Title: The Name of the Wind
Series: The Kingkiller Chronicles
Author: Patrick Rothfuss
Amazon Link: Click here


I've always wanted to be a writer. I love books so much I just can't imagine anything more fulfilling than getting your ideas onto paper, publishing them, and having them loved by millions. Naive, I know. I had a conversation with my daughter a couple of days ago. She is becoming quite the bookworm herself. After a trip to the library she asked if I would like to write books. She agreed with me. It sounds like such a wonderful thing to do. Then I read a book like The Name of the Wind and I am reminded why I am not an author. I could not possibly do justice to a story in the way that Patrick Rothfuss does with this fantasy novel. This book wasn't just written, it was crafted. With exceptional care, expertise and an attention to detail that is truly remarkable. He never wastes a word. The plot is tightly constructed and full of detail but also beautifully lyrical. It is a book that deserves an immediate re-read. Inevitably, I am tempted to compare any new fantasy book with Tolkien. That's not particularly fair, but it's the association my mind draws. The Name of the Wind belongs on the same shelf. I believe it an equal, a peer. I look forward to reading more books in the series. I have read the second book titled The Wise Man's Fear, and it does not disappoint. I can't wait for the third book in the series. There is no release date in sight but that's ok. Although I'm impatient to read it, I can see that books this beautiful don't just appear out of thin air. Take your time Mr. Rothfuss, I'll be waiting.


Bonus link: Tor's extensive re-read of The Kingkiller Chronicles is found here. Read the books then follow the re-read to really benefit from the details layered into the novels.

Spotify Song for this book: Manchester - Kishi Bashi