Phantom: Chainfire Trilogy, Part 2 (Sword of Truth, Book 10)

I personally believe that Phantom was the book that started to bring everything together. It is in this book that Goodkind starts tying in everything from the first book, making the entire series seem goal-oriented and truly brilliant in the story compilation. So many unanswered questions begin to unravel in this book (i.e., the true story of Baraccus and the Temple of the Winds, the link between the chimes, orden, and the Sword of Truth). Despite what others have said, this was a pivotal book for the whole series by directing itself towards the ultimate showdown.

An amazing first book of the triology by Terry. Stories from all the previous books start to come together, and set up for what is going to be an incredible end to one of the best series of books I have read.

Ok I have to admit I wasnt expecting the "old" Terry to show up in this book but he did. It was interesting and exciting and enjoyable - It left me really looking forward to the next book and wishing it wasnt going to be the last. It is true that the word "phantom" is mentioned too often - and there is some of the usual lecturing that comes in all of Mr. Goodkind's books but it is no where near the last one or two. In short I enjoyed it from cover to cover .... now when is the next one being released?

I find myself yelling on the last page of this awesome novel, "You can't leave it there!? That's not fair!!!!" This novel is practically perfect in every way! I am delighted to see Mr. Goodkind's story-telling "gift" has not left him. This has been the best story, the best concept since "Faith of the Fallen" (my absolute favorite with "Wizard's First Rule" and "Temple of the Winds" tied at a close second). In Phantom we see everything finally coming together, the pieces all falling in the right places, the end in sight, and we are left wanting more! This novel leads so perfectly into the final installment that like Chainfire to Phantom will be so seemless it could be one massive volume. I eagarlly await the final novel to see what becomes of the characters I care soo much about. All of these characters are my friends, and my enemies, their fear is my fear, their hope is my hope, I can't wait to see what Mr. Goodkind has in store for us in the next novel of the greatest series since LOTR! You are my hero Mr. Goodkind!

First of all, an overview of the series as a whole for new readers. I've always been a big fan of this series. Like many others out there, I'd probably say he's my favorite author. His writing seems to provoke strong reactions from people -- either adoration or contempt. This is doubtlessly because his story isn't just about the characters, the world, and the conflict; it's about philosophy, namely how life should be valued and treated. In a way, every good story out there dips into this subject, but Goodkind does so with a kind of single-mindedness that tends to either put people off or inspire them. I can appreciate the way Goodkind defines, illustrates, and explains each side of the struggle. However, Goodkind's work isn't for everyone; even if you do agree with his philosophy, you could find his means of expression abrasive. His characters often go on long, repetitive explanations, rather than trusting the reader to intuit the point himself. In any case, I recommend that if you consider yourself an intelligent and thoughtful person, you give this series a try. Worst case scenario, you lose patience or disagree with the philosophy, but giving the subject some serious thought will help you figure out what you believe in. The plot, characters, and setting aren't half bad either, although they can suffer from taking a back seat to the philosophy. Now, for experienced readers. If you're like most I know, you really fell in love with the story at Faith of the Fallen, the novel that in my opinion was Goodkind's crowning achievement in illustrating a human's right to self-worth. It also sparks hope and belief that even those who seem lost can find the truth. A wonderful book, but many people are disappointed with the way the series has gone since then. However, it's important to understand that for the purpose Goodkind seems to have in mind, it was just one step toward the conclusion. You can't just stop seeking the truth because you've come across something you like. The journey isn't over yet, although what lies ahead may not be as pretty, inspiring, or easy to swallow. I don't blame you if you just got tired of all the monologues, though. So we've reached the second to last novel, the middle of the concluding trilogy. And we can get down to the nitty-gritty reviewing of this book. I wouldn't say there's a lot of action. For the first third of the book, the main group doesn't even go anywhere. There are a lot of discussions about the way magic works, and I admit I didn't really care enough about the details that I thought so much time should have been spent on them. It's magic -- I'm already suspending my disbelief, I don't need arguments and explanations. It's like Goodkind is trying to cover his, um, rear when in fact the people who would jump all over him would be the silly ones. Additionally, it bothered me that at this point, Richard's closest friends and loved ones still express serious doubt and even scorn when he suggests something ne