Eragon and Saphira's saga concludes in Inheritance: The Inheritance Cycle, Book 4. The dragon and her rider have overcome impossible odds, discovered that they are not alone in the world, and grown from a boy and a hatchling to a great leader and a powerful firebreather in the process. Now, as the war between the Vardin and Galbatorix's forces reaches its crescendo, the two are put to their greatest test.
As the story opens, the Varden are locked in a furious battle. Over the course of the fighting, it appears that they will win a great victory, but as the fray reaches its end, the unthinkable happens. Saphira's impenetrable skin is penetrated by a gruesome spear known as a duathdart, and she is nearly killed. It takes a great deal of healing magic to put the dragon aright, and for a time all hope seems lost, but thankfully Saphira survives the attack, and makes a full recovery.
At the close of the battle, the Varden make yet another alliance, this one with the werecats, who are well known for avoiding others' conflicts until they are sure they have picked the winning side. This vote of confidence is welcomed, but many doubts remain as to their real chances for ultimate victory.
As the war draws to a furious close, Eragon remembers some advice he was given long ago by a talking cat, and seeks out a mysterious place called the Vault of Souls. It is there that he finds something that will spell doom for one side of the war, and promises great hope to the other.
Christopher Paolini is an American author who began writing while still in high school. He published his first book, Eragon, at the age of 19, and subsequently signed a contract with Knopf to continue the Inheritance cycle. He is now the author of four bestselling books, one of which was the inspiration for a blockbuster film. Paolini now lives in Los Angeles, California, and says he is taking a break from writing.
"Such a great story teller. Covers every kind of fantasy I love. Magic, dragons, elves you name it. Books only get better as his writing improves. A really captivating series that was worth waiting as long as I was forced to for all the books to come out."
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Emma (5 out of 5 stars)