This series is Terry Goodkind’s most famous work, with the New York Times naming him ‘master of fantasy fiction’ for the saga’s success.
These novels are set in a fantasy world that is being overtaken by evil and dictatorial oppressors.
It is up to a group of protagonists from different walks of life to complete a quest and defeat those who would destroy the world before it is too late.
The Sword of Truth has been adapted for a television series called Legend of the Seeker.
However, fantasy fans looking for the most in-depth portrayal of the story and characters should read the novels in order.
About The Sword Of Truth
The Sword of Truth series is an epic fantasy saga and a classic tale of good versus evil.
The novels are set in a fantasy realm divided into the New World and the Old World. The New World consists of three regions, named Westland, the Midlands, and D’Hara.
While Westland is a place where technology is hailed above all else, the Midlands’ rulers are known as the Confessors, while villainous magician Darken Rahl rules over D’Hara.
The story begins in a time of conflict between the Midlands and D’Hara.
During this upheaval, the novel’s central protagonist, Richard Cypher, is sought out by Confessor Kahlan Amnell, who has discovered Richard’s magical lineage and believes that he may be the prophesied Seeker of Truth.
Richard sets off with Kahlan on a quest to defeat the evil overlords threatening the Midlands.
Over the course of the series, they recruit more companions, including Mord-Sith protector Cara, and powerful wizard Zeddicus Zu’l Zorander.
Released as a prequel to the original Sword of Truth series, The First Confessor follows Magda Searus on a quest to speak with her dead husband and uncover the truth behind his death.
Pros
Good historical context for later books
Fast-paced from the beginning
Strong and believable female protagonist
Cons
Contains spoilers for those who have not read the original series
The first book in the original Sword of Truth series, Wizard’s First Rule, sees Richard Cypher learn of his magical lineage and embark on a quest to save the Midlands from the evil overlord Darken Rahl.
In Blood of the Fold, the barrier between the Old and New Worlds has been breached, and Richard and Kahlan are the only ones who can prevent the New World’s destruction.
Pros
More character development compared to previous books
Richard journeys into the Old World to protect the Midlands from the evil plans of Emperor Jagang, accompanied by Mord-Sith Cara, while Kahlan raises an army for battle.
Richard and Kahlan find themselves hunted in a strange land. In order to defeat the hunter, Richard must face the demons lurking between the Pillars of Creation.
The final installment in the original series, Confessor, sees Richard battle with his own demons as the forces of darkness threaten to overwhelm the New World.
The heart of the Empire is threatened by Emperor Sulachan and Bishop Hannis Arc, while Richard and Kahlan are afflicted by a magical illness far from home.
In the dramatic conclusion, Richard is prepared for death as the evil forces close in, but Kahlan still has the power to alter the fate of the world.
Pros
Emotional reading experience
Intense and full of action
Satisfying conclusion to the series
Cons
Wordy writing in places
Including the two prequels and four follow-up novels, The Sword of Truth series consists of 17 books, broken down into smaller series’ within the saga.
Final Thoughts
The Sword of Truth is an extremely long and epic high fantasy book series consisting of 11 central novels as well as four follow-up novels and two prequels.
While these novels have received some criticism for their graphic nature and writing style, they remain some of the most popular fantasy books worldwide due to their suspenseful plots and likeable characters.
It is advisable to read the original 11 novels in order of publication before moving on to the four-part series and coming back to the prequels if you want your reading experience to be spoiler-free.
However, fans who have already finished the series may wish to start with the prequels and work chronologically in the order laid out here, since the prequels also provide important background and context.
Whether you choose to read this series in order of publication or chronology, you’ll be mesmerized by the rich, beautiful, and dangerous world Goodkind has created.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should You Read The Sword Of Truth In Order Of Publication?
You can read The Sword of Truth books in chronological order, as outlined in this article. However, for first-time readers, I recommend starting with Wizard’s First Rule and progressing in order of publication before circling back to the prequels to avoid spoilers.
Which Is The Best Sword Of Truth Book?
Faith of the Fallen, the sixth book in the original series, or the eighth if you count the prequels, is considered by many fans of the series to be the best book.
However, Wizard’s First Rule and Stone of Tears also tend to rank highly.
What Age Group Are The Sword Of Truth Books For?
The Sword of Truth contains some adult themes as well as scenes of graphic violence. For this reason, the books are only appropriate for people aged over 16.
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