Summary

Wizard's First Rule, published in 1994, is the groundbreaking debut novel by Terry Goodkind that launched the epic fantasy series The Sword of Truth. This New York Times bestseller introduces readers to Richard Cypher, a young woodsman thrust into a world of magic and danger. Goodkind's first book was an instant success, selling for a record $275,000— the highest amount ever paid for a fantasy novel by a first-time author.

The novel explores themes of love, power, and the nature of truth, set against a richly imagined fantasy world. Goodkind's creation quickly gained a devoted following, with readers drawn to its complex characters and intricate plot. The book's success paved the way for a series that would eventually span 17 novels, cementing Goodkind's place as a major voice in contemporary fantasy literature.

In 2008, Wizard's First Rule was adapted into the television series Legend of the Seeker. Produced by Sam Raimi and Robert Tapert, the show starred Craig Horner as Richard and Bridget Regan as Kahlan. While the series expanded on some themes from the book, it diverged significantly from the source material, much to the author's disappointment.

Plot

In Wizard's First Rule, Richard Cypher's life is upended when he meets Kahlan Amnell, a mysterious woman seeking help. After his father's murder, Richard becomes embroiled in a quest to stop the tyrannical ruler Darken Rahl from gaining ultimate power through the magical Boxes of Orden. Zedd, revealed to be the First Wizard, names Richard the Seeker of Truth and entrusts him with the legendary Sword of Truth.

Richard, Kahlan, and Zedd embark on a perilous journey through magical boundaries to reach the Midlands. They seek guidance from the Mud People to locate the third Box of Orden. Along the way, Richard and Kahlan develop feelings for each other, but Kahlan's secret power as a Confessor threatens their relationship. The witch woman Shota warns them about the box's location and foretells potential betrayal.

Their quest takes a dark turn when Richard is captured and tortured by the Mord-Sith Denna. Despite enduring immense suffering, Richard's innate compassion helps him break free from her control. Meanwhile, Darken Rahl attempts to manipulate Richard into reciting the Book of Counted Shadows, crucial for unlocking the Boxes of Orden's power. Richard outsmarts Rahl, leading him to open the wrong box and ultimately causing Rahl's demise.

In a surprising revelation, Zedd discloses that he is Richard's grandfather, making Richard the new Lord Rahl. The novel concludes with Richard and Kahlan overcoming the obstacles to their love, as Richard's unwavering devotion protects him from Kahlan's Confessor powers. They set off to return Siddin, a Mud People child, to his parents, marking the beginning of their new journey together.

Themes

• Power and its corrupting influence

• The nature of truth and deception

• Love and sacrifice

• Good versus evil

• Personal growth and self-discovery

• The importance of loyalty and friendship

• The dangers of blind faith and manipulation

Setting

Wizard's First Rule is set in a medieval-like fantasy world divided into three distinct regions: Westland, the Midlands, and D'Hara. Westland, where the story begins, is a land without magic governed by a single authority. The Midlands, a coalition of sovereign nations, is imbued with magical forces. Beyond these lies D'Hara, an empire ruled by powerful wizards.

The narrative unfolds in an era reminiscent of Earth's Middle Ages, with swords, horses, and primitive technologies dominating daily life. However, the presence of magic and mythical creatures like dragons sets it apart from historical reality. The story primarily takes place in forested areas, small villages, and treacherous mountain passes as the characters journey through these diverse lands.

Characters

• Richard Cypher: The protagonist and newly named Seeker of Truth. Richard is a kind-hearted woods guide who discovers he has magical abilities and a greater destiny. He falls in love with Kahlan and must navigate complex political and magical challenges while trying to stop the evil Darken Rahl. Richard's journey transforms him from an ordinary young man into a powerful hero.

• Kahlan Amnell: A mysterious and powerful woman known as the Mother Confessor. Kahlan possesses the ability to control others with her touch, which complicates her relationship with Richard. She is strong-willed, intelligent, and devoted to her duty of protecting the Midlands. Kahlan struggles with her feelings for Richard and the burden of her powers throughout the story.

• Zeddicus Zu'l Zorander: An eccentric and powerful wizard who becomes Richard's mentor. Zedd is revealed to be the First Wizard and Richard's grandfather. He guides Richard and Kahlan on their quest, providing wisdom, magical support, and occasional comic relief. Zedd's complex past and powerful abilities play a crucial role in the unfolding events.

• Darken Rahl: The primary antagonist and ruler of D'Hara. Rahl is a ruthless and powerful wizard seeking to gain control of the Boxes of Orden, which would grant him ultimate power. He is charismatic, cunning, and willing to commit atrocities to achieve his goals. Rahl's actions drive much of the plot and pose a constant threat to the main characters.

• Chase: A boundary warden and friend of Richard. Chase is a skilled fighter and loyal ally who assists Richard and Kahlan on their journey. He provides valuable support and knowledge about the dangers lurking near the boundaries.

• Denna: A Mord-Sith who captures and tortures Richard. Denna is a complex character who forms a twisted bond with Richard during his captivity. Her actions and eventual fate have a profound impact on Richard's character development.

• Adie: A wise bone woman who helps Richard and his companions cross the boundary. Adie provides crucial information and magical assistance to the group.

• Shota: A powerful and feared witch woman who provides information about the Boxes of Orden. Shota's motivations are often unclear, making her a mysterious and unpredictable character.

Quick facts

• Terry Goodkind sold the book for $275,000, a record at the time for a fantasy novel by a first-time author

• Wizard’s First Rule is the first book in Goodkind's 11-part Sword of Truth series

• The book introduces the concept of “Wizard's Rules,” with each novel revealing a new magical principle

• Goodkind wrote the 836-page novel in just 13 months

• The original cover art was created by Keith Parkinson

• It was first published by Tor Books in August 1994

• The novel features a controversial torture scene involving the Mord-Sith character Denna

• Goodkind had no formal training as a writer before penning this bestseller

• The book introduces the magical weapon called the Sword of Truth, which plays a crucial role throughout the series

About the Author

Terry Goodkind (1948-2020) was an American author best known for his epic fantasy series The Sword of Truth. Despite struggling with dyslexia, Goodkind found success as a writer later in life, with his debut novel Wizard's First Rule selling for a record $275,000 in 1994. His works, which blend elements of fantasy with philosophical themes, have sold over 25 million copies worldwide and been translated into more than 20 languages.

Goodkind's writing style was characterized by complex characters and intricate plotlines that often explored the human psyche. He was heavily influenced by Ayn Rand's Objectivist philosophy, which is evident in many of his works, particularly in the novel Faith of the Fallen. This philosophical bent sometimes proved controversial among fans but also contributed to the depth and uniqueness of his storytelling.

Beyond his fantasy works, Goodkind also ventured into contemporary suspense with novels like The Law of Nines. His Sword of Truth series was adapted into a television show called Legend of the Seeker, which ran for two seasons from 2008 to 2010. Goodkind was known for his dedication to his craft and his readers, often expressing gratitude for their support and passion.

Outside of writing, Goodkind was an accomplished cabinet maker, violin craftsman, and wildlife artist. He was also an enthusiast of auto racing, competing in various amateur and semi-professional events. Goodkind passed away in September 2020 at his home in Boulder City, Nevada, leaving behind a legacy of thought-provoking fantasy literature that continues to captivate readers around the world.