Story:
The war to end the reign of Galbatorix has begun. As the Varden move through the empire capturing major cities Eragon and Saphira must prepare themselves for the time when they shall face the mad king. Too much is at stake for them to fail, and secrets of the past are revealing themselves. After an attack from the Empire on the Varden, Eragon and Sapphire learn of the location of the Rock of Kuthian, and must travel there in order to become more powerful to face Galbatorix. Will they find what they are looking for? Or will Alagaësia forever endure the rule of the mad king?
People have complained about how the elements of these books are similar to The Lord of the Rings and Star Wars. However people have been pointing out similarities in the Star Wars films to other myths and legends around the world, including but not limited to Japanese. It just shows that Paolini has done an extensive amount of research into old cultures and mythologies to create Alagaësia. The use of magic in this book is fun and exciting, and to be honest I never would've thought of the solutions that the characters came up with. The action sequences are well written and thought out. I also like how we see development in characters like Murtagh and Thorn. Most people would've ended the story with the death of Galbatorix, but Paolini goes on to include chapters on rebuilding Alagaësia after the war. It would've been nice if all the plot holes could've been wrapped up in the last few chapters, but for the most part this is a good end to an ambitious piece of work.
Caution:
Battles are waged, and men are often killed. Some creatures found in the story may be intimidating to younger readers. A woman is tortured and described as being in a shift. Booby traps kill people. Bones are broken, and blood is seen. Some mild swearing.
Lessons:
People have a right and a duty to protect their loved ones and their freedom from those who would seek to take them away. We should choose good and wise people to lead us. Our gifts and talents are best used to help and serve others. We can always change who we are. Learning from the past can help us face the future. There is no chance, fate, or destiny that can change or control the firm resolve of the human mind. Like Galbatorix, evil will try to paint its reasons and justifications as right.
