by Christine Mcdermott

Created on: June 30, 2009

I love reading biographies about people in the middle ages, or any books about historical events and cultures. I have also read historical romance novels at different stages of my life. I love them all. I have never read fantasy or sci-fi books. Until now.

It started with a TV show called Legend of the Seeker. I was unsure whether I would like the characters, the magic, dragon-like creatures or any part of the premise of fantasy. I thought it might be another show where it has all been done before. (The magic is surprising, so far the only dragon-like creatures are the Gars, and the premise of the show took me by surprise). I decided to start with the first episode and go from there. I realized there was enough of a medievalish look to it that I might enjoy the show after all.

And I did. Craig Horner plays Richard Cypher, a young woodsman who becomes the Seeker and our hero, Bridget Regan plays Kaylan Amnell, a Confessor, who represents justice and has a special power. Then, there is Bruce Spence (of Road Warrior fame) who plays Zeddicus Zu'l Zorander, a wizard of the first order. These three are the main characters and as you can guess, they take their art form seriously. Their acting is good, to even better. Emotional. Memorable.

As each episode aired, I found myself following the show more and more closely. I was watching the episodes over and over (the show airs on Saturdays and Sundays). I knew the TV show was based on books by a fantasy-writing author. My son has read everything that has ever been written by him (he loves fantasy books), so I decided to ask him if I should read the book. You can imagine what he said! He told me which book to start with (Wizard's First Rule by Terry Goodkind). I bought the book (first in a series) and started reading.

I got excited when I started reading situations that were similar to the TV show. The other characters came alive too. Darken Rahl, the ultimate evil and villain, the Mord'Sith, dark-hearted females with their Agiel weapons, and allies like the warrior Chase. We meet Seeker's family: his real mother, sister, and grandfather (for those who already watch). Even the children are good character actors and play their parts well. The scenery is beautiful (the show is filmed in New Zealand).

There are definitely some changes from the book to the screen (there always is). However this is an enjoyable and very watchable production...just expand your mind past the word fantasy. This show is much more. Some episodes are good, but some are exceptional! Take the time to get into the show and you'll be hooked.

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