Book Review: Eldest, Book Two of The Inheritance Cycle

Eldest is the second installment in what was once intended to be a trilogy but grew into a four book set.  This second book shows the growth in Christopher Paolini as the series gains momentum and excitement.  In Eldest, Algaesia, the land of Eragon and his dragon Saphira is suffering mightily under the evil rule of Galbatorix.  This book weaves and intertwines the two stories of the Empire, Galbatorix, and the evil Ra'zac as they lay siege to Eragon's cousin Roran and Eragon's hometown along with the story of Eragon as he trains in battle, language and magic with an older, former rider.  Oromis, the trainer for Eragon, works with his very ancient dragon Glaedr as they strive to prepare Eragon and Saphira for the daunting challenges that will face them.   Roran has to lead the villagers on a desperate escape through the mountains and Eragon learns a stunning secret about his lineage

Eldest is an enormous book. At 1056 pages, although and decent reader from age 12 and up could read it, the book does present a few challenges. The biggest challenge is the number of characters and the imaginary words and names that can create a bit of confusion. If you are going to read this book, first of all make sure you have read the first book in the series--Eragon. You can read my review of Eragon in another Hub I have published.

To be succesful in reading this book--make sure you read through the language guide at the end and have the map handy for frequent reference. Believe me, it will make your read much more enjoyable.

On the good side, Christopher Paolini, at least in my mind, does a fantastic job with his sophomore novel in keeping the story not only interesting but moving at a good clip. By switching back from one story line to the other, he kept my interest from waning. I constantly wanted to know what was happening with the other characters. The dialogue is even better in this second book. I especially like the introduction of more characters and creatures. This is a fantasy book that is sure to please fantasy fans around the world.

 Get it and read it.  I rate this book a solid 9 out of 10.  Everything about the book is great, and Mr. Paolini continues on in the tradition of grand fantasy series.  Some people knock him for taking too much from his predecessors--I applaud him for that.  All great