10 Books Like The Name of the Wind

If you’ve ever been completely swept away by Patrick Rothfuss’s The Name of the Wind, you’re not alone. The lyrical prose, deep character insights, and immersive world-building have captured the hearts of fantasy fans everywhere.

But with the long wait for the next installment in the series (Where the Wind Takes Us, anyone?), we’re all left wondering: is Kvothe ever going to finish his story?

In the meantime, if you’re craving more tales that echo the magic and wonder of Rothfuss’s masterpiece, grab your favorite mug of something warm, and let’s dive into ten fantastic reads that share the same enchanting spirit.

**What Makes The Name of the Wind Unique?**

Even years after I first read it, I still find myself going out of my way to find books that can give me that same feeling that The Name of The Wind delivered. Rothfuss’s lyrical prose pulls you right into Kvothe’s world, making you feel every moment as if you’re living it yourself. The first-person narrative makes it so personal, so intimate—it’s not just an adventure or a fantasy story, it’s Kvothe’s life, full of triumphs, failures, and raw self-discovery.

What really makes The Name of the Wind stand out for me is the magic system. Sympathy, sygaldry, and Naming—it’s not just complex, it’s grounded, and it feels like it could exist in the real world, adding a sense of wonder and mystery that’s hard to find elsewhere. The world itself feels rich and lived-in, from the University’s hallowed halls to the rough streets of Tarbean, and every piece of it draws you deeper into Kvothe’s journey.

It’s a book that’s stayed with me, and I’ve been on the lookout for more stories that can deliver that same immersive world-building and sense of magic ever since.

Books Like The Name of The Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

1. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

Step into the bustling, Venice-inspired streets with Locke Lamora, a cunning con man navigating treacherous underworlds.
Why It’s Similar: Expect witty banter, elaborate heists, and a richly detailed cityscape that mirrors the intricate world-building found in Rothfuss’s work.

2. Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson

What if the Dark Lord won? Well, this is the question Sanderson asks with a world shrouded in ash where the unique magic system of allomancy—based on metal manipulation—drives a tale of rebellion.
Why It’s Similar: Like The Name of the Wind, it features a compelling protagonist and an innovative approach to magic, gradually unveiling its secrets in an immersive setting.

3. The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

As you can probably tell, I’m a Sanderson fan - and so no list would be complete without his Stormlight Archive. This epic installment introduces the world of Roshar where the gods Honor, Odium, and Cultivation wage war. Here, multiple characters’ destiny’s intertwine against the backdrop of a war-torn, meticulously crafted world.
Why It’s Similar: With deep lore, immense and complex world-building and an expansive narrative, it offers the kind of layered storytelling and immersive environment that draws readers in.

4. The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie

Get ready for a gritty, no-holds-barred narrative filled with morally complex heroes and antiheroes in a brutal fantasy realm.
Why It’s Similar: Its focus on character-driven plots and introspective journeys resonates with those who appreciate the delicate balance of darkness and light in Rothfuss’s tale.

5. A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

Dive into the intricate political chessboard of Westeros, where every character has secrets and every decision can tip the scales of power.
Why It’s Similar: The expansive world, multifaceted characters, and unpredictable twists create an epic saga that fans of deep fantasy will adore.

6. The Black Prism by Brent Weeks

In a realm where light itself is the source of magic, power is as dazzling as it is dangerous.
Why It’s Similar: Its innovative magic system and fast-paced, character-centric narrative bring a fresh twist to epic fantasy adventures.

7. The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison

Follow the unlikely journey of an unexpected heir thrust into a labyrinth of court intrigue and delicate power struggles.
Why It’s Similar: With its rich world-building and focus on personal growth amidst political maneuvering, this standalone gem offers a uniquely satisfying experience.

8. Uprooted by Naomi Novik

Inspired by Eastern European folklore, this enchanting novel tells the story of a young woman caught in a magical partnership with a reclusive wizard.
Why It’s Similar: Vivid prose and a deep-rooted magical atmosphere create a captivating narrative that fans of Rothfuss’s immersive style will appreciate.

9. The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon

This standalone epic weaves tales of dragons, ancient magic, and a world on the brink of war.
Why It’s Similar: Its richly imagined world, diverse characters, and layered mythology provide an immersive escape into a realm as grand and mysterious as The Name of the Wind.

10. Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke

Set in an alternative 19th-century England, this novel reimagines history with a magical twist, as two magicians alter the course of events.
Why It’s Similar: Elegant prose and meticulously revealed magical lore create a thoughtful, immersive reading experience that echoes the gradual unfolding of secrets in Rothfuss’s narrative.

What to Look for in Books Like The Name of the Wind

If you’re searching for books that capture the same magic, here are the key elements to look for:

Beautiful Prose & Engaging Narrative: A book that doesn’t just tell a story but makes you feel it through rich, immersive writing.
A Charismatic & Complex Protagonist: Someone whose journey is as much about personal growth as it is about adventure.
A Thoughtful Magic System: Magic that feels fresh, logical, and woven seamlessly into the world.
A Deep, Well-Crafted World: The best fantasy novels make you feel like you could step into their world and live there.
A Sense of Mystery & Discovery: The best stories don’t just give you answers—they invite you to chase them.

The books on our list were chosen because they share one or more of these qualities, ensuring that your next read will be just as enthralling as The Name of the Wind.

Finding Your Next Fantasy Adventure in Books Like The Name of The Wind

Whether it’s the captivating magic systems, the deep character growth, or the worlds that feel so real you could step into them, these ten books have something for every fantasy fan.

While none of them can quite replicate the magic of The Name of the Wind, each one brings a bit of that same spark—inviting you to dive into a new, unforgettable adventure.