The Name of the Wind
The Wise Man’s Fear
The Slow Regard of Silent Things
The Narrow Road Between Desires
Title: The Slow Regard of Silent Things (Kingkiller Chronicle, Book 2.5)
Author: Patrick Rothfuss
Review from Tokybook:
In “The Slow Regard of Silent Things,” Patrick Rothfuss takes readers on a mesmerizing journey into the life of Auri, one of the most enigmatic characters from his acclaimed Kingkiller Chronicle series. This novella is a delicately crafted, profound exploration of the soul of a lonely girl trying to find her place in a world full of broken pieces.
Set in the labyrinth of the Underthing, where abandoned rooms and ancient passageways hide beneath the University, the story follows Auri through her solitary life. Rothfuss has woven a magical tale, both joyous and somber, inviting readers to step into the world through Auri’s unique lens.
The highlight of the book is Rothfuss’s poetic, lyrical prose. His words paint vivid pictures of the space around Auri and her inner world, captivating readers with profound and beautiful language. The rich, poetic language perfectly captures the essence of Auri’s character and the enchantment that permeates her world.
Auri herself is a fascinating protagonist, filled with secrets. Rothfuss skillfully reveals aspects of Auri’s personality through her interactions with objects and spaces around her, creating a sense of intimacy and understanding between the reader and Auri. Her quirks, fears, and joys are portrayed with sensitivity, making Auri relatable and sympathetic.
The pace of the story is rather slow, reflecting Auri’s “slow regard” for the world around her. This allows readers to fully immerse themselves in Auri’s world, appreciating the beauty and meaning of the seemingly mundane tasks she performs. The focus on the small details of Auri’s life adds depth to her character, showcasing Rothfuss’s ability to find magic in the ordinary.
Although part of the Kingkiller Chronicle series, “The Slow Regard of Silent Things” stands on its own as an independent story. Those unfamiliar with the main series can still enjoy this novella, as Rothfuss provides enough context to understand Auri’s world and her place within it. However, those who have read the main series will find deeper layers of meaning, gaining a greater understanding and appreciation of Auri’s character and her role in the overall plot.
It’s worth noting that “The Slow Regard of Silent Things” is not a traditional fantasy novella. It lacks the action, dialogue, or lively plot that some readers might expect. Instead, it is an introspective exploration focused on a single character. Those who appreciate beautiful prose, meticulously crafted worlds, and deep character studies will undoubtedly find much to enjoy in this book.
In summary, “The Slow Regard of Silent Things” has proven Patrick Rothfuss’s talent as a writer and his ability to create enchanting, emotionally resonant stories. Through Auri’s eyes, readers are invited to see the world anew, finding beauty and meaning in the most unexpected places. This book is a must-read for fans of the Kingkiller Chronicle series or anyone who appreciates exquisite prose and character-driven storytelling. Step into the Underthing and let Auri’s story captivate you, as you discover the secrets and wonders that only she knows.
