I've found that in Scifi/fantasy, I tend to enjoy worlds more than characters and stories. How is the universe different from our own, what are the flavors of its laws of physics, ways its societies have advanced, etc.

I find the particular form of magic in the Kingkiller Chronicles, 'sympathy', very intriguing. It's useful without feeling like a Plot Transmogrifier if someone whips it out, and forces the characters to be creative by linking things together rather than just saying "hocus pocus".

Some have accused the main character, Kvothe, of being too much of an invincible Mary Sue, but I felt he went through many hardships and overcoming adversity never felt assured.

One of the best books I've read in quite a while, and I'm definitely looking forward to the rest of the series when it's released.