Wizard’s First Rule by Terry Goodkind

Wizard’s First Rule by Terry Goodkind is a masterful work of art. It will forever be a cornerstone in the fantasy genera, but it is so much more than a book about magic and swords. This is my second time to read this book (I first read it 4 years ago in 2004) and I was still breathless and in awe this second time at the power behind Mr. Goodkind’s wisdom that he poured into this novel.

Wizard’s First Rule inspires me to live my life in such a way that reflects the ideals that Mr. Goodkind’s characters struggled to live in theirs. Between the lines of this book lies a story of love and courage that transcends the boundary of fiction. Self sacrifice and humility are the core characteristics of love and the main characters fight to stand against a man devoted only to himself and a sense of perverted love. Raw gritty explorations into the darkest corners of hate will leave you breathless at the sickening depths of what a world could be like without love.

Wizard’s First Rule is a world of magic, but it is still a world of limits. No power exists without an equal and opposite counterpart. Because of this, the world is a vibrant and real place where one’s actions have a direct result in the resolution. This “2 sided” system of magic plays a key role in the story line and although there are many scenes of gruesome acts of violence and hate, it only builds the foundation that there can be no freedom without sacrifice. Uncompromising love can not exist without hate.

I have convinced 4 other people to read Wizard’s First Rule and each and every one of them were moved by the powerful philosophy hidden behind a simple story of enduring love and self sacrifice. I don’t believe I will ever read another book of fiction that inspires me more than Wizard’s First Rule. And if I ever do, you can bet I’ll blog about it right here on Bookologists.

Rating: 10 out of 10