Picking up this sequel is a dangerous idea, as when opened this book swallows the world and blacks it out through a heavy hit of rich and vibrant story.
If you have enjoyed Rothfuss' “The Name of the Wind” you are more then likely going to fall in love with the world all over again to a higher degree in this.
The difference here is that the story feels tighter in terms of delivery, pacing and all the little glimmers of mystery woven into the tapestry of the world. If The Name of the Wind is still fresh on your mind then the experience is even more comfortable and satisfying, akin to stepping in from the cold world into a cosy warm firelit inn and having a cold pint of craft beer. Certain questions are answered and others are posed, people and places take on new shades of meaning and depth. The humour is abundant and feels right. Reading this brings up feelings of wonder, nostalgia and curiosty all swirled into a multicolour palette of hefty weight.
Even the asthetics of the book are worth priase, the cover art is gorgeous and the book is well bound, making a wonderful addition to any shelf.
Where as Rothfuss' first book was the most surprisingly gratifying , this has been the most overwhelmingly satisfying literary purchase in a number of years.