Dive into the enchanting world of ‘The Kingkiller Chronicle’ with our blog post. Discover how Patrick Rothfuss’s series redefines fantasy with its lyrical prose, deep themes, and a narrative as intricate as a spider’s web. Explore the new era it heralds in fantasy literature.
In the grand concert hall of contemporary fantasy, one series has plucked the heartstrings of readers with the finesse of a lute-playing protagonist: Patrick Rothfuss‘s “The Kingkiller Chronicle.”
With its lyrical prose and a story as intricate as a spider’s web, this series has not just entered the fantasy stage; it has taken the spotlight and refused to bow.
But what makes it resonate so deeply in the fantasy genre?
Time to tune our lutes and find out.
The Lay of the Land: A Brief Overture
For those who haven’t had the pleasure, “The Kingkiller Chronicle” is a trilogy (though, as of my last check, we’re all still holding our breaths for the final act) centered around Kvothe, a legendary figure turned innkeeper with a past as mysterious as the contents of a wizard’s pouch.
Told in a narrative as layered as an onion (and equally likely to bring tears to your eyes), the series spans Kvothe’s tumultuous journey from a gifted child to a renowned figure.
A New Spell in Storytelling: Beyond the Pages
Rothfuss’s approach to storytelling is like a fresh breeze in a genre sometimes accused of being as stale as last week’s bread.
It’s not just about defeating the dark lord or finding the magical amulet; it’s about the journey, the learning, the triumphs, and the heartaches.
In doing so, “The Kingkiller Chronicle” has nudged contemporary fantasy towards a more introspective, character-focused direction.
Music to Our Ears: The Power of Prose
One cannot discuss this series without tipping a hat to Rothfuss’s prose.
It’s as rich and melodic as any song Kvothe might play, turning what could have been a simple fantasy tale into something akin to a literary symphony.
This focus on the beauty of language has raised the bar for fantasy writing, encouraging a generation of writers to see their prose not just as a vehicle for story but as an art form in itself.
More Than Just a Hero’s Journey: Themes That Resonate
“The Kingkiller Chronicle” doesn’t shy away from themes as heavy as a lead-lined cloak.
It delves into issues like poverty, trauma, and the pursuit of knowledge, all while weaving a narrative that feels both fantastical and painfully real.
This willingness to tackle complex issues has set a precedent in the fantasy genre, pushing it towards more mature, thought-provoking territories.
The Legacy of the Chronicle: A New Chapter in Fantasy
As we await (somewhat impatiently) the final book, the influence of “The Kingkiller Chronicle” on contemporary fantasy is undeniable.
It has redefined what a fantasy narrative can be, encouraging a more introspective and poetic approach to world-building and character development.
The series has shown that fantasy can be as deep and rich as any ‘literary’ work, blurring the lines between genres and appealing to a broader audience.
“The Kingkiller Chronicle” then has sung a powerful song in the realm of fantasy literature.
With its intricate storytelling, breathtaking prose, and willingness to explore deep themes, it has not just captured the imagination of readers; it has inspired a new wave of fantasy writing.
It’s a series that reminds us that sometimes, the most powerful magic lies not in wands or spells, but in the simple, profound beauty of a well-told story.
Explore the top friendships in fantasy literature! Uncover the bonds that define characters in Middle Earth, Hogwarts, and beyond.
Who doesn’t love friendship? Today we’re going to delve into the top-flight friendships in fantastical literature.
So, grab a cuppa, make yourself cosy (preferably with a dragon-sized pile of biscuits) and let’s explore ten of the best mates in fantasy books.
Frodo Baggins & Samwise Gamgee – The Lord of The Rings
Are you really surprised? It’s the fellowship that defines the word itself.
Here we have Frodo, a hobbit with the weight of the world (or a rather heavy ring) on his shoulders, and Samwise, the gardener turned warrior, who probably didn’t even know what he was signing up for when he eavesdropped on Gandalf that fateful night.
Their friendship is the epitome of loyalty, the kind that lasts through a long, wearisome journey to Mount Doom.
Quite frankly, if your mate isn’t willing to carry you up a volcanic mountain while being hunted by a creepy, ring-obsessed creature, are they really your friend?
Harry Potter & Hermione Granger & Ronald Weasley – Harry Potter Series
It’s the magical trio that faced down You-Know-Who and lived to tell the tale.
Harry, Hermione, and Ron showed us the power of friendship, courage, and the importance of a well-placed “Expelliarmus!”
Sure, there were squabbles, moments of jealousy, and that one time Ron left in a huff (we’re still not over that, Ronald), but in the end, they always stuck together.
They faced trolls, death eaters, and even the occasional murderous teacher, proving that the power of friendship truly can conquer all – even an angst-ridden, snake-loving dark wizard.
Lyra Belacqua & Pantalaimon – His Dark Materials
A girl and her daemon—Lyra and Pan are not just friends, they’re literally part of each other.
If that’s not a deep bond, I don’t know what is.
Pantalaimon, the shape-shifting animal embodiment of Lyra’s soul, is with her through thick and thin.
Their friendship shows us that sometimes, our best mate is our own true self (or our talking ermine, pine marten, moth, bird, whatever Pan fancies at the moment).
Locke Lamora & Jean Tannen – The Gentleman Bastard Series
A pair of thieves who would willingly die for each other, Locke and Jean are the definition of a bromance.
They lie, cheat, and steal, but they do it with such flair, you can’t help but find yourself cheering them on.
Their bond is as sturdy as Jean’s beloved hatchets and as intricate as one of Locke’s grand schemes.
If your idea of friendship involves elaborate heists, constant banter, and the occasional life-saving, this pair is for you.
This is a friendship that transcends the usual boundaries of camaraderie and ventures into the realm of the spiritual.
Fitz, the royal bastard, and The Fool, the court jester with a mysterious past, are as different as night and day, yet their bond is unbreakable.
They journey together through heartbreak, prophecy, and the occasional assassination attempt.
This is a friendship that shows us the power of understanding and acceptance, proving that our differences can often be our greatest strengths.
Vin & Elend Venture – Mistborn Trilogy
Initially, an alliance of convenience between a street thief and a nobleman, Vin and Elend’s relationship soon develops into a deep friendship and later a romantic relationship.
They challenge each other, learn from each other, and ultimately change each other in profound ways.
Their relationship is a testament to the power of trust and mutual respect.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected friendships are the ones that shape us the most.
Kvothe & Auri – The Kingkiller Chronicle
In a world full of magic, mystery, and music, the friendship between Kvothe, the gifted bard, and Auri, the enigmatic girl living beneath the University, stands out.
Their bond is gentle, respectful, and deeply touching.
Kvothe shows kindness and patience towards Auri’s peculiar ways, while Auri provides Kvothe a safe haven from his troubles.
Their friendship serves as a beacon of kindness in a world that often seems dark and unforgiving.
Geralt of Rivia & Dandelion – The Witcher Series
A witcher and a bard—an unlikely, yet captivating pair.
Geralt, the stoic monster-hunter, and Dandelion, the flamboyant troubadour, couldn’t be more different, yet their friendship endures through countless adventures and dangers.
While Geralt saves Dandelion from various physical threats, Dandelion often saves Geralt from his own cynicism, reminding him of the beauty and joy in the world.
Their friendship is a testament to the balance that opposites can bring to each other’s lives.
Sabriel & Mogget – The Old Kingdom Series
Last, but certainly not least, is the curious partnership between Sabriel, the Abhorsen-in-waiting, and Mogget, the mysterious cat-like being.
Their relationship is one of mutual respect and necessity more than affection, but it’s their banter and shared determination that really cement their friendship.
Mogget’s cryptic advice and quick wit often aid Sabriel in her dangerous quest, and while Mogget might not admit it, Sabriel’s steadfast courage and compassion likely save him just as often.
It’s a friendship that shows us sometimes, the best partnerships come from the most unexpected places.
So, whether it’s sharing an adventure, a laugh, or just a really good book, these friendships remind us that even in the midst of dragons, dark lords, or dystopias, having a mate by your side makes it all a bit more bearable.
Remember, a good friend will always pass you the next book in the series. But a best friend will buy you your own copy.
What are your favourite friendships in fantasy? Share yours in the comments.
Explore the allure of rogues in fantasy literature, uncover their charm, and discover some of the genre’s most memorable scoundrel characters.
Fantasy is filled with brave heroes, wicked villains, and wise old mentors.
But some of the most memorable characters are the rogues—those lovable scoundrels and rapscallions who charm their way into readers’ hearts.
Who doesn’t love a witty, wildcard rule-breaker?
Let’s take a look at what makes fantasy rogues so dashingly appealing.
What is a Rogue?
While definitions vary, a fantasy rogue is generally a character who lives by their wits, thumbing their nose at laws and social conventions.
They usually have criminal tendencies, whether picking pockets, running scams, or just generally causing a ruckus.
Think Han Solo rather than lawful good paladins.
Rogues are notoriously unpredictable.
You never know if they’ll swoop in to save the day or make off with the loot.
Their moral compasses are often more flexible than your average hero’s.
But their quips are sharper than the daggers they have hidden up their sleeves.
Why Readers Love Rogues
They’re exciting – Rogues thrive on breaking rules and causing mischief, whether through thievery, assassinations, scams, or just general troublemaking. Their antics and scheming often directly drive the plot forward in unpredictable and kinetic ways. Rogues keep readers on their toes, never knowing what kind of havoc they will wreak next.
They’re funny – Sharp wits and razor-edged sarcasm are signature traits for many rogues. They constantly trade barbs with friends and foes alike, bringing much-needed levity and humor to balance out the seriousness of traditional stoic fantasy heroes. Their cheeky quips and dirty jokes act like spice, seasoning an adventure tale with delightful irreverence.
They’re capable – Rogues rely on their resourcefulness and varied skillsets rather than brute magical or physical strength to survive and succeed. Often starting from underdog positions, a rogue’s cleverness, adaptability, and expertise in areas like thievery, assassination, con artistry, and more allows them to punch far above their weight class. It’s immensely satisfying seeing a rogue turn the tables through creativity rather than combat prowess.
They’re relatable – Rogues in fantasy often operate outside of mainstream society, fighting against corrupt systems and unjust rulers. Their moral flexibility and willingness to question authority makes them more accessible and understandable protagonists than the archetypal lawful good knight errant. Readers recognize the rogue’s roguishness as a product of circumstancxes, rooting for the scrappy antihero.
They’re charming – For all their shady morals, rogues often have an underlying heart of gold that emerges through charming personality quirks and relationships that humanize them. Their care for fellow misfits and outcasts can tug at reader heartstrings. And who can resist falling for a scoundrel with a soft spot? The appeal of redeeming a charming rapscallion makes rogues hard to resist.
Fantasy’s Finest Rogues
From thieves to assassins, pirates to con artists, here are some of fantasy’s most iconic roguish characters:
Locke Lamora (Gentleman Bastard Sequence) – This saboteur leads a band of thief protagonists in Lynch’s Ocean’s Eleven-esque fantasy heist series.
Celaena Sardothien (Throne of Glass) – Assassin turned royal champion Celaena is fiercely independent and not afraid to break rules. A YA fantasy favourite.
Royce and Hadrian (Riyria Revelations) – This thief/fighter duo banters their way through Sullivan’s adventures, stealing from the rich and meddling in conspiracies.
Tyrion Lannister (A Song of Ice and Fire) – The wisecracking “Imp” is one of few characters whose wit can match his intellect in Martin’s gritty fantasy saga.
Kvothe (The Kingkiller Chronicles) – With his magical talents, intellect, and roguish disregard for authority, Kvothe charms his way through Rothfuss’ epic trilogy.
Jalan Kendeth (Red Queen’s War) – Mark Lawrence portrays an enjoyably amoral antihero forced to be brave despite his cowardly instincts.
Vlad Taltos (Dragaera) – Assassin, mob boss, and sorcerer Vlad lives by his wits in Brust’s long-running series of swashbuckling fantasy adventures.
FitzChivalry Farseer (The Realm of the Elderlings) – Hobb’s royal bastard turned assassin has flexible morals yet an underlying heart of gold.
Gen (The Queens of Renthia) – No rogues gallery would be complete without a smart-mouthed thief. Gen steals scenes (among other things) in Dennard’s nature-based fantasy series.
Binti (Binti) – Math genius and intergalactic adventurer Binti hacks, tinkers, and tricks her way through Okorafor’s afrofuturist sci-fi/fantasy series.
Kaz Brekker (Six of Crows) – Leader of a gang of outcasts, Kaz is cunningly ruthless in Bardugo’s YA heist fantasy inspired by the Dutch Golden Age.
Wydrin (The Copper Promise) – Heavily tattooed sell-sword Wydrin is tough, hilarious, and more than a bit amoral in Jen Williams’ dark yet cheeky epic fantasy trilogy.
Locke (Sorcerer to the Crown) – Sharp-witted, magic-wielding Locke disregards rules of race and gender amid 19th century magical politics in Cho’s witty fantasy of manners.
Eloise (His Secret Illuminations) – Scribe, forger, seducer, spy – Eloise plays many roles in Winters’ Renaissance-inspired fantasy full of political intrigue.
Levisor (We Ride the Storm) – De Castell’s former revolutionary wields wit and wiles as weapons against oppressive regimes in this original secondary world fantasy.
So whether they’re carrying out elaborate heists, trading insults with enemies, or just being lovable jerks, roguish characters bring dashing flair and relatable humanity to fantasy tales.
We can’t get enough of these witty rabble-rousers – here’s hoping for many more in the years to come.
Any favourite fantasy rogues or recommendations for great roguish reads?
Embark on a journey through fantasy literature’s memorable bromances, from Gentleman Bastards to the unforgettable duo in Stormlight Archive.
As avid readers of fantasy literature will attest, there’s little in this genre that captures our hearts and imaginations quite like a good bromance.
These intimate friendships, often between two (occasionally more) men, present an opportunity for deep character development, exhilarating adventures, and emotional resonance that many of us can relate to.
But fear not, this isn’t a dissertation on the sociological aspects of male bonding in fiction.
Think of it as a merry skip through the flowering fields of fantasy bromances, occasionally stopping to point and exclaim, “Look at those guys, aren’t they just great together!”
If ever there was a tale that warmed the cockles of your heart with its hearty bromance, it’s Scott Lynch’s series.
Locke Lamora and Jean Tannen have the kind of bond that makes you want to cry into your ale.
They’re thieves, con-artists, and brothers in all but blood.
They banter, they bicker, and they save each other’s backsides with alarming regularity.
That’s the thing about Locke and Jean—it’s not just about fighting the baddies together, it’s about saving each other from their own worst habits.
Hadrian and Royce
In a similar vein, we have the unforgettable duo of Hadrian and Royce from Michael J. Sullivan’s Riyria Revelations.
What starts as a business partnership between a kind-hearted warrior and a cynical thief eventually blossoms into an unshakable friendship that’s full of witty banter and nail-biting escapades.
It’s quite like if you took a shilling for every time they save each other, you’d be as rich as the king in no time.
The Greatcoats themselves—Falcio, Kest, and Brasti—have a friendship that can only be described as…well, coat of arms deep.
They squabble like schoolboys one moment and are ready to take a sword for each other the next.
Not to mention their synchronised cloak-swirling—that’s some real friend goals there.
Clay and Gabriel
But hold your horses…or should I say wyverns?
Nicholas Eames’ ‘Kings of the Wyld’ series boasts Clay Cooper and Gabriel.
These two old warriors come out of retirement for one last hurrah, enduring all manner of beasts and bedlam.
Their banter will have you chuckling like a goblin on giggleweed, but at the same time, their loyalty will make you sob like a heartbroken dragon.
An emotional rollercoaster, isn’t it?
Jon and Samwell
Next stop is at the frosty wall of Westeros.
If you listen closely, you might just hear the sound of Jon Snow and Samwell Tarley’s friendship, a heartwarming chord that rings true even amidst the incessant chill.
In George R.R. Martin’s ‘A Song of Ice and Fire,’ Jon and Sam start as green boys at the Night’s Watch but soon develop an enduring friendship that weathers both White Walkers and the politics of the realm.
Jon, the brooding bastard, and Sam, the self-deprecating scholar, are as different as ice and fire, but they stick together like two wights in a snowstorm.
Kaladin and Adolin
Our next bromance takes us to the ‘Stormlight Archive’ by Brandon Sanderson, where we meet the mighty Kaladin and the charismatic Adolin Kholin.
Although their friendship starts on rocky grounds (and who can blame them—class tensions, haunted pasts, and all that), they grow to rely on each other.
Adolin might be the charming prince, and Kaladin a brooding ex-slave, but their friendship shines brighter than a Shardblade in battle.
Plus, nothing says ‘bromance’ quite like fighting an ancient, desolate evil together, does it?
Harry and Ron
Harry Potter and Ron Weasley from J.K. Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ series undoubtedly deserve a mention.
Despite the magic and mayhem of Hogwarts, these two chaps stick together through thick and thin (and troll encounters).
0They’re the epitome of childhood friends turned lifelong companions.
It’s a true bromance when your mate is willing to face down You-Know-Who and play life-threatening chess for you.
Kvothe and Simmon
Turning the pages to Patrick Rothfuss’s ‘The Kingkiller Chronicle,’ we find the bond between Kvothe and Simmon.
Kvothe might be the protagonist, the dramatic hero with a tragic past, but it’s Simmon’s steady loyalty that lights up their friendship.
Sim is there through Kvothe’s ups, downs, and frequent tavern brawls.
Sure, Simmon might not be a legendary hero or a magical prodigy, but he’s a bloody good made, and isn’t that what counts?
Kennit and Wintrow
Next, we whisk ourselves to the high seas of Robin Hobb’s ‘Liveship Traders.’
Here, we witness the understated, deeply emotional bond between Captain Kennit and his shipmate Wintrow Vestrit.
Their relationship may start with coercion, but it evolves into an unexpected friendship full of emotional depth.
It’s a rare bromance, crafted masterfully by Hobb, and one that’s hard to forget.
Frodo and Sam
And of course, how can any discussion about bromances in fantasy literature be complete without mentioning Samwise Gamgee and Frodo Baggins from ‘The Lord of the Rings?’
Their enduring, pure, and simple friendship as they journey through Middle Earth is stuff of legends. Sam carrying Frodo up Mount Doom is nothing short of bromance in its most epic form.
“I can’t carry it for you, but I can carry you.”
If you’re not a tad teary after that, well, I’m afraid you might just be a stone troll.
Honourable mention: FitzChivalry and Nighteyes
Our exploration of bromances in fantasy literature would be woefully incomplete without delving into the peculiar, profound relationship that transcends the barriers of species: FitzChivalry Farseer and Nighteyes from Robin Hobb’s ‘Farseer Trilogy.’
You see, the ‘bromance’ that Fitz, the royal bastard, shares with Nighteyes, his wolf companion, is quite unlike any other we’ve discussed so far.
It’s not just friendship, it’s a ‘soulship’ if you will, a bond of minds and spirits.
Through the Wit (a form of magic that allows telepathic and empathic bonds with animals), these two are bound together in ways that redefine the traditional concepts of friendship.
Nighteyes isn’t just Fitz’s pet or even his sidekick—he’s his confidant, his moral compass, and quite frankly, the sensible one in the pair (and yes, we’re talking about a wolf here).
When you have a wolf advising you on your love life, you know you’ve got something unique.
Their banter (if you can call telepathic wolf-human conversations that) is full of playful humour and wisdom.
It’s touching how Nighteyes, the wolf, often ends up being the one teaching Fitz about loyalty, courage, and living in the moment.
One might even say he’s the real hero of the story—Fitz certainly wouldn’t be the same without him.
But it’s not all sunshine and howls—their bond carries a profound sense of melancholy too.
As readers, we’re reminded of the fleeting nature of Nighteyes’ life compared to Fitz’s, a fact that lends an additional depth to their relationship.
It’s this blend of love, wisdom, and impending heartbreak that makes their bond feel so real and resonates with readers even after they close the book.
And in the echoing words of Nighteyes, “We are pack.”
It’s friendships like these that teach us the true magic in fantasy isn’t always about casting spells or slaying monsters—sometimes, it’s about having someone who’ll stand by your side, laugh at your bad jokes, and help you pick yourself up when you’ve had one too many pints of dwarven ale.
And aren’t those just the best types of friendships?
If you love a good bromance in fantasy, you might enjoy my Dawn of Assassins series which centres around the friendship of Fedor and Lev.
Read the prequel novel Birth of Assassins for free as part of your starter library.
Discover the captivating world of fantasy’s finest anti-heroes. Explore the top 10 characters in fantasy literature, from Geralt of Rivia to Kvothe. Complex, flawed, and utterly compelling, these anti-heroes blur the line between good and evil.
Anti-heroes are characters that possess both heroic and villainous qualities, making them complex and relatable.
They often blur the line between good and evil, making them some of the most interesting characters in fantasy literature.
Here are ten of the best anti-heroes in fantasy literature that you should check out.
1. Geralt of Rivia from “The Witcher” series by Andrzej Sapkowski.
Geralt is a monster hunter who is also a skilled warrior and magician. He’s a solitary figure who is often seen as a villain by those around him, but he’s also a hero in his own way.
2. Raistlin Majere from “Dragonlance” series by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman.
Raistlin is a powerful wizard who is also a recluse and a misanthrope. He’s a complex character who is both admirable and flawed, making him a true anti-hero.
3. Egwene al’Vere from “The Wheel of Time” series by Robert Jordan.
Egwene is a strong and determined leader who is also stubborn and impulsive.
4. Locke Lamora from “The Lies of Locke Lamora” by Scott Lynch.
Locke is a master thief and a con artist who is also a charismatic leader.
5. Kelsier from “Mistborn” series by Brandon Sanderson.
Kelsier is a powerful magician and a rebel leader who is also a ruthless and cunning strategist.
6. The Gunslinger from “The Dark Tower” series by Stephen King.
The Gunslinger is a solitary figure who is also a skilled warrior and a relentless pursuer.
7. Kvothe from “The Kingkiller Chronicle” series by Patrick Rothfuss.
Kvothe is a skilled magician and musician who is also an orphan, a thief, and a ladies’ man.
8. Kelsier from “The First Law Trilogy” by Joe Abercrombie.
Kelsier is a powerful warrior and a charismatic leader, known for his ruthlessness and cunning.
9. Jorg Ancrath from “The Broken Empire” trilogy by Mark Lawrence.
An ambitious king and a ruthless killer.
10. FitzChivalry Farseer from “The Farseer Trilogy” by Robin Hobb.
Fitz is a skilled assassin and a loyal servant who is also a bitter and damaged individual. He’s a complex character who is both admirable and flawed, making him a true anti-hero.
