I really enjoyed it. It didn't follow the typical fantasy guidelines. Instead of being focused on the quest and the main adventure, like most fantasies, it was focused on a character. We begin the story knowing the man Kovthe is an innkeeper. The first question I had (and still don't have an answer to) is why is Kovthe disguised as an innkeeper in a tiny village? What on earth would possess a hero of his time to tend a bar?
I enjoy character based literature, so this book captivated me.
I did not purchase the rest of the series since I didn't know if I'd like this one, but now I wish I had because the story ended so soon. If I paid more attention, I would have notice this was entitled Day One of the Kingkiller Chronicles. This means it was Day One of Kovthe telling his story.
Another thing I really enjoyed was the prologue and epilogue. I don't want to give too much away, but it was perfect. I recommend this book, even to those who aren't huge fans of fantasy.
http://meganm922.blogspot.com/2012/01/name-of-wind-review.html