Are There Books Similar To Kingkiller Chronicles With Framed Narratives?

I've been obsessed with books that use framed narratives ever since I read 'The Name of the Wind'. If you're looking for something similar, 'The Lies of Locke Lamora' by Scott Lynch is a fantastic pick. It’s got that same rich storytelling vibe where the protagonist narrates their past adventures, but with a darker, grittier edge. The way Lynch weaves the present and past together is just masterful. Another one I adore is 'The Book of the New Sun' by Gene Wolfe. It’s more dense and philosophical, but the layered storytelling is incredible. The protagonist, Severian, recounts his life with this eerie, unreliable narrator twist that keeps you hooked. For something a bit lighter, 'The Princess Bride' by William Goldman is a classic. It’s framed as an abridged version of a fictional book, complete with humorous asides from the 'editor'. These books all capture that same feeling of diving into a story within a story, just like 'Kingkiller Chronicles' does so well.

As someone who spends way too much time buried in fantasy novels, I can’t get enough of framed narratives. 'The Kingkiller Chronicles' ruined me for other books, but I’ve found a few that come close. 'The Shadow of the Wind' by Carlos Ruiz Zafón is a gorgeous blend of mystery and fantasy, where the protagonist uncovers a hidden book that leads him into a labyrinthine tale. The way Zafón plays with stories within stories is pure magic. Then there’s 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons, which uses a Canterbury Tales-style structure where each character tells their own story. It’s sci-fi, but the emotional depth and intricate plotting feel very much like Rothfuss’s work.

For a more obscure gem, 'The Thirteen and a Half Lives of Captain Bluebear' by Walter Moers is a whimsical, episodic adventure where the titular character recounts his absurd life. It’s quirky and imaginative, with a narrative style that feels like a cozy fireside chat. If you’re into darker tones, 'The Library at Mount Char' by Scott Hawkins has a fragmented, nonlinear narrative that slowly reveals its horrors. Each of these books offers a unique spin on the framed narrative, perfect for anyone who loves getting lost in layered storytelling.

I’m a sucker for books that feel like someone’s recounting their life story, and 'The Kingkiller Chronicles' is my gold standard. One book that gave me similar vibes is 'The Slow Regard of Silent Things' by Patrick Rothfuss himself. It’s a side story set in the same world, focusing on Auri, and it’s written in this poetic, almost stream-of-consciousness style that’s utterly captivating. Another favorite is 'The Golem and the Jinni' by Helene Wecker, where two mythical beings navigate 19th-century New York. The way their pasts unfold through flashbacks feels very much like Kvothe’s storytelling.

For a more epic scale, 'The Wheel of Time' by Robert Jordan has moments where characters reflect on their histories, though it’s not strictly a framed narrative. Still, the depth of world-building and the sense of legend unfolding are reminiscent of Rothfuss. 'The Arabian Nights' is another classic example, with its nested tales. These books all share that same enchanting quality of stories woven within stories, making them perfect for fans of 'Kingkiller Chronicles'.