Wizard's First Rule

The masterpiece that started The New York Times bestselling epic Sword of Truth. In the aftermath of the brutal murder of his father, a mysterious woman, Kahlan Amnell, appears in Richard Cypher's forest sanctuary seeking help . . . and more. His world, his very beliefs, are shattered when ancient debts come due with thundering violence. In a dark age it takes courage to live, and more than mere courage to challenge those who hold dominion, Richard and Kahlan must take up that challenge or become the next victims. Beyond awaits a bewitching land where even the best of their hearts could betray them. Yet, Richard fears nothing so much as what secrets his sword might reveal about his own soul. Falling in love would destroy them--for reasons Richard can't imagine and Kahlan dare not say. In their darkest hour, hunted relentlessly, tormented by treachery and loss, Kahlan calls upon Richard to reach beyond his sword--to invoke within himself something more noble. Neither knows that the rules of battle have just changed . . . or that their time has run out. This is the beginning. One book. One Rule. Witness the birth of a legend.

This is the beginning of the Sword of Truth Series. I became interested in this one when CW started airing a series called Legend of the Seeker. I enjoyed the series so much that I decided to try out the books it was based on.

This book was really well written and I enjoyed most of it. I love the wizard's first rule and how Richard used it to his benefit. The reason I say I enjoyed most of it is because there were some extremely violent scenes in the book described in such detail to make me literally sick to my stomach. I'm sure that's what Goodkind was after, but I didn't like it so much and tried to skip ahead when these things happened.

So I'd say I suggest this book to those strong of stomach that are not concerned with violence, I for one will likely not be reading the rest of the series.

As I said, there is a tv series based on the books and is much less graphic. I would suggest this series to fantasy lovers. If for some reason you don't get CW, or if it's not playing there on yours, you can also search for Legend of the Seeker on Hulu.com. I will say though, there is still violence and some talk of sex, but it's not too graphic. I just wouldn't suggest it for kids. Enjoy!