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Phantom is the tenth novel in the epic saga of the Sword of Truth, a series that began in 1994. The story, that began so long ago, sweeps to its much anticipated climax. It has been announced that Terry Goodkind has agreed on a ground-breaking mini-series directed by Sam Raimi, director of the Spider-Man films. The opening mini-series, Wizard's First Rule, is set to begin production within the next year. So many exciting events swirl around the end of this series. For me, personally, the completion of the series means an ability to move on to other sagas.

This book picks up where Chainfire left off. Kahlan Amnell is forgotten by all of humanity except Richard, her beloved husband. But others, randomly chosen, can also see and remember Kahlan. Richard has finally convinced Zed, Cara, Nicci, Ann and Nathan that the woman to whom he is intensely devoted actually exists. During a mission to find out what is happening with the world, Richard also begins the final battle as the prophesy foretold. At the end of the novel, the story of the Sword of Truth almost comes full circle. There is an artist drawing magic art in a cave, the boxes of Orden are put into play and Richard Rahl is stripped of his gift.

As I have indicated in other reviews, Terry Goodkind is a master weaver. Although you often get the distinct impression that everything fits too easily, everything has an explanation. However, some of the diatribes in the novel are too long winded. The explanation of how the final battle is going to be fought and won are reminiscent of a certain American president's explanations on how to win the war on terror. My only word of advice to Mr. Goodkind would be to stop preaching -- we get it. Besides which, actions always speak louder than words, even in novels...

This being said, I am awaiting the final novel with bated breath. In the meantime, I am trying to figure out who will play Richard Cypher in Hollywood's version!

Lise Murphy has been reading science fiction and fantasy ever since she was little. Aided by Star Wars, her Dad introduced her to the genre. Educated as a virologist, she has worked in rabies research for the federal government and is now working in laboratory safety. She lives in Ottawa, Canada with her husband Brad and beagle Madigan.