Eldest

Well, as promised, I now bring you a review for Eldest. Book two of the Inheritance Cycle picks up in the aftermath of the battle under Farthen Dur, the dwarves' capital. The battle has been over for three days, and parties have come back after searching for Urgals in the extensive tunnels. A surprise attack ensues, and the leader of the Varden is killed, thus passing the role to his daughter. Soon Eragon is sent off to the elves, where he must complete his training with Saphira. As his knowledge of magic, swordplay, and other various topics advances, Eragon's cousin, Roran, comes back to Carvahall from an apprenticeship. He arrives to find his father dead, his cousin gone, and his home destroyed. Angry, Roran leads the village in uprisings against the king's soldiers, only to be injured and have his betrothed kidnapped. Roran then must lead the villagers into battle and voyage to save themselves and those they love, altogether leaving the book in a major battle with surprising revelations.

     I certainly found Eldest to be an inviting read. I find that as the series progresses, the books get better and become more eloquently written. Christopher Paolini does a superb job at looking deep into the characters' emotions and putting twists into the plot line. I am excited to be moving on to the third book (Brisinger), and hope to bring it to you all soon!