Eldest

I stayed up most of the night finishing Eldest. By the time I got to bed, my mother was already up. The book was just so damn exciting I couldn't put it down until after five in the morning. And I was right about everything. I really, really wish I wasn't. Of all the times to be right about plot twists, it had to be this one. Damn. However, since the story seems to be following a loosely Star Wars pattern (hero journey mostly, but some more specific things as well), I have something of a hope that the character can be saved... or maybe he'll just die saving Eragon. Not what I'd hope for, but it would be some angsty tragedy. There are now male characters who have been described with as much gusto as the females in the previous book, including the main character, who underwent a sort of involuntary magical transformation. I believe the word the author used was "beautiful." The writing style still needs a little polish at times, but he's gotten much better since the opening of Eragon. And even though he was still fawning after that elf, she made it quite clear -- several times -- that she wasn't interested. And the other girl hugged him after the battle. Also, I don't think I've ever read a book where a shipload of angry peasants arrived just in time to swing the outcome of the battle in favor of the good guys. Wizards, yes. The main character's entire hometown... not until last night.

I am now eagerly awaiting the last books of two different series, and Eragon and Eldest have earned a place on the dresser with my absolute favorite books, which are all achievements in storytelling far beyond the normal. And perhaps best of all, reading them has renewed my desire to work on my own stories that have been neglected. I couldn't ask for better gifts from a book than an enjoyable read and inspiration. I know it takes a lot from a book to please me. Christopher Paolini, you have done well. Now finish that last book.

Favorite lines:

'Eragon surreptitiously watched the elf, curious to see what he looked like without his clolhes.'

"Barges! We don't want no stinking barges!"

(Nine weeks until new Stargate)