The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

Patrick Rothfuss' debut novel is a spellbinding romp through a world that is easy to loose yourself in. Young Kvothe's life is turned upside down when his entire family is killed by forces that most believe to be myth. With the knowledge he has gained from his father and an arcanast that traveled with his family troupe he sets out to discover the truth of their murders and himself.  He works hard to put himself through the University both by making arcane items to sell and through his musical talent. His spellbinding intelligence and wit combine to allow him to become the first person to enter the University at such a tender age and his quick rise through the ranks creates many enemies. The story is narrated by the now adult Kvothe living as an innkeeper under the name of Kote because - well he's made a lot of enemies. The world that Mr. Rothfuss has created it richly imagined with magnificent characters, creatures and places. I loved this book and have read no less than three times.