This one took a little time to get me completely hooked. I’d say it happened around a quarter of the way through, and after that I was in. It’s one of those books where you start following the character’s life and suddenly realize how much you care about what happens next.
A little about the book
Kvothe is telling his own story, starting with his childhood in a traveling troupe and working toward the reputation he eventually earns. We already know he becomes somebody famous. What we don’t know is how he ends up hiding behind a different name and running an inn.
His story takes him through some pretty rough years before he reaches the University, where he studies magic while trying to afford food, tuition, and a place to sleep. Apparently being talented doesn’t mean you can pay your bills.
What stood out to me
Kvothe carries a lot of this book. He’s smart, talented, and determined, but he can also make things considerably worse for himself. There were times I wanted him to stop talking before he created another problem. At the same time, that stubbornness is part of what makes him interesting.
I liked that music matters so much to him. It gives him something beyond learning magic and chasing answers. The scenes around his lute and the Eolian make that part of his life feel important.
The University has plenty going on too. His friendships with Simmon and Wilem give him some people in his corner, while Ambrose gives him somebody you’d really like to see taken down a few notches. Auri brings a different feeling to the story, and Denna’s appearances add another layer of uncertainty.
Underneath all of that is the darker mystery surrounding Kvothe’s childhood and the Chandrian. That’s what keeps the story from feeling like it’s only about a talented kid going to magic school. There’s something much bigger hanging over him, and I wanted answers.
Who I’d recommend it to
Fantasy readers who like spending time with a character and watching his reputation develop. If you enjoy a school setting, friendships, strange magic, and mysteries that unfold gradually, this is a good one to try. Give the opening some room to get going.
Caution
May cause you to buy a lute, argue with someone richer than you, and discover that neither helps with tuition. Also carries a serious risk of joining the book-three waiting room. Bring a comfortable chair.
Discussion questions
Did Kvothe hook you right away, or did it take a little time?
Does knowing he’s telling his own story make you question parts of it?
Which part pulled you in most: the University, the music, or the Chandrian mystery?
— Cory Lane