Out of interest, how much Goodkind have you read?
He's very aware of the fact that he's using the cliche format; his later books especially get really interesting. There's one which is basically a study of utilitarianism when superimposed onto what we imagine is the 'correct' format for fantasy.

And, without wanting to spoil too much... major characters die, several are complete dickheads, and none of them are completely good or evil.

Having explained this, I'm guessing you might have just seen the TV series.
(Sivvus trolley collision in the fruit aisle led to a jam, Thu 5 Jan 2012, 23:16, 1 reply)

Read the 1st one
was massively underwhelmed. Decided not to read any more
(sittingduck Attention seeking, bullshitting fuck-knuckle, Fri 6 Jan 2012, 0:01, closed)

Fair enough
The first is probably the most cliche. Try 'Faith of the Fallen' for a cracker, it's impressive and there's enough exposition that it stands alone.
(Sivvus trolley collision in the fruit aisle led to a jam, Fri 6 Jan 2012, 18:35, closed)