Eragon
by Christopher Paolini
Overview
From the Publisher
When Eragon finds a polished blue stone in the forest, he thinks it is the lucky discovery of a poor farm boy; perhaps it will buy his family meat for the winter. But when the stone brings a dragon hatchling, Eragon realizes he has stumbled upon a legacy nearly as old as the Empire itself. Overnight his simple life is shattered, and he is thrust into a perilous new world of destiny, magic, and power. With only an ancient sword and the advice of an old storyteller for guidance, Eragon and the fledgling dragon must navigate the dangerous terrain and dark enemies of an Empire ruled by a king whose evil knows no bounds. Can Eragon take up the mantle of the legendary Dragon Riders? The fate of the Empire may rest in his hands....
My thoughts
I couldn't put it down! I've heard about this book for years from my kids and their friends, but it wasn't until a co-worker brought it to my attention that I decided to read it. I was warned not to start the book until I had free time on my hands because I wouldn't want to put it down, and the warning was spot on!
This is a sensational book! Again, I'm not typically a fan of the fantasy genre but I absolutely couldn't wait to turn the page! The book starts with a short chapter that involved a battle of sorts, and I was pretty sure I wasn't going to like the book. The first chapter is followed by a very short second chapter that reeled me in. I was hooked that early on, as is evidenced by the fact that I read the 700+ page book in 5 days during Christmas week when I was busy cooking, cleaning, Christmasing and working at my job!
It's a sensational action-packed book, though not so hard core or disgustingly graphic that I was repulsed (which comes easily for me!) I highly recommend it!
Favorite Passage
Saphira nudged Eragon. Look. His hand tightened on Zar'roc as he saw Murtagh, helmed, carrying a dwarven shield with his hand-and-a-half sword, approaching with Tornac.
Orik cursed and leapt to his feet, but Murtagh said quickly, "It's all right; Ajihad released me."
"Why would he do that?" demanded Orik.
Murtagh smiled wryly. "He said this was an opportunity to prove my good intentions. Apparently, he doesn't think I would be able to do much damage even if I did turn on the Varden."
Eragon nodded in welcome, relaxing his grip. Murtagh was an excellent and merciless fighter - exactly whom Eragon wanted by his side during battle.
"How do we know you're not lying?" asked Orik.
"Because I say so," announced a firm voice. Ajihad strode into their midst...
