The Law of Nines - Terry Goodkind

Terry Goodkind is best known for his phenomenally successful fantasy series 'The Sword of Truth.' I am not a big fantasy reader, so I've never read Goodkind before.

The Law of Nines is a departure from the fantasy world and is set in present time.

It's the day of Alex Rahl's twenty seventh birthday. A birthday he's been dreading, as it's the same age his mother was when she was committed to a mental institution. He's waiting at a crosswalk contemplating the day when a truck comes careening around the corner, heading up on the sidewalk. Without thinking he pushes aside the woman standing next to him, saving them both. He doesn't know her, but she calls him by name and leaves him with a cryptic message before she disappears.

"Be careful of mirrors. They can watch you through mirrors." Funny thing is - he's been thinking he can see things in the mirrors as well....

His birthday - the 9th minute of the 9th hour on the 9th day of the 9th month of the 9th year, the appearance of this mysterious woman Jax, and a parcel of land he inherits on his birthday set into play a series of events that has been preordained for many, many years.

I don't want to give any of the plot away, but Goodkind does dip his toe (or maybe his entire foot) back into the fantasy pool. Law of Nines does draw some comparisons between technology and magic that were interesting.

I quickly turned pages until the end, but found myself unable to completely connect with Alex and Jax and buy into their desperation or become fully immersed in their tale. I felt more like a spectator than feeling a connection with the two main characters.

If you can suspend disbelief and enjoy the ride, you're in for a great thriller read. If you're looking for an entertaining adventure, good vs. evil tale, you'll enjoy The Law of Nines. The ending is totally left open for a sequel, so I'm sure we'll be hearing more from Jax and Alex.