The long wait for The Doors of Stone, the final novel in The Kingkiller Chronicle, continues to test the patience of fantasy readers. More than 14 years after the release of The Wise Man’s Fear, fans are still waiting for Patrick Rothfuss to complete the trilogy that began with The Name of the Wind in 2007.
Now, new comments from fellow fantasy author Brandon Sanderson have reignited discussion about whether the long-delayed book will ever be published.
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A 14-Year Wait That Has Defined a Generation of Fantasy Readers
When The Name of the Wind arrived in 2007, it quickly became one of the most celebrated fantasy debuts of its era. Its sequel followed in 2011, and at the time, readers believed the conclusion was not far behind.
Instead, The Doors of Stone became one of the most anticipated – and elusive – books in modern fantasy. Over the past decade, concerns have grown within the reading community that the trilogy may never be completed.
In the absence of Book Three, Rothfuss has released smaller companion works, including The Lightning Tree, The Slow Regard of Silent Things, and How Old Holly Came to Be. While these stories expanded the world of Temerant, they did little to answer the central questions left unresolved in the main saga.
Brandon Sanderson Addresses the Rothfuss Delay
During a recent public talk, Brandon Sanderson offered rare insight into Rothfuss’s situation. Sanderson, who is not only a bestselling author but also a university lecturer, spoke candidly about his fellow writer’s struggle.
“I know Pat, and nobody wants that book to be done more than he does,” Sanderson said.
“I’ve said several times that I think Greek tragedy is the structure Pat is working toward with The Kingkiller Chronicle, if we ever get the third book — which I trust we will.”
Sanderson’s remarks stood out because they shifted the narrative away from frustration and toward empathy, emphasising that the delay is not due to a lack of desire on Rothfuss’s part.
A Creative Burden Few Authors Face
Rothfuss has previously spoken about personal challenges, creative pressure, and mental health struggles that have affected his writing process. The expectations surrounding The Doors of Stone have only intensified over time, with fans dissecting every public appearance and comment for clues.
Sanderson’s comments suggest that Rothfuss is still deeply invested in finishing the story, even if progress has been slow and uneven.
A Familiar Comparison: Rothfuss and George R. R. Martin
Rothfuss is often mentioned alongside George R. R. Martin, another giant of the genre whose own saga remains unfinished. Martin’s last A Song of Ice and Fire novel, A Dance with Dragons, was also published in 2011.
While both authors face similar scrutiny, some readers believe Rothfuss may be closer to completing his final book. Others remain unconvinced, pointing to the lack of concrete updates in recent years.
Where Things Stand Now
As of early 2025, there is still no confirmed release date for The Doors of Stone. Sanderson’s comments do not signal an imminent announcement, but they do offer reassurance that Rothfuss has not abandoned the project.
For fans of The Kingkiller Chronicle, the wait continues — filled with speculation, debate, and cautious hope. Until Rothfuss chooses to speak directly about the book’s progress, The Doors of Stone remains one of fantasy literature’s greatest unanswered questions.
