Brisingr

SPOILER ALERT!

Eragon came through the Battle of the Burning Plains after the shocking revelation that his former ally, Murtagh, survived the Battle of Farthen D?r, was captured by Galbatorix, had a dragon hatch for him, and told Eragon he was Murtagh's younger brother. Eragon is sickened by the possibility he was sired by one of the Forsworn (evil Dragon Riders under the control of the power-mad King Galbatorix). He chooses to focus on the fact that he was raised by his uncle - a good man named Garrow. Garrow's son, Roran, was much more a brother to him than Murtagh was.

After the battle, Eragon (and his dragon, Saphira), decides to hunt down the foul Ra'zac (beings that do Galbatorix's bidding) and pay them back for killing Garrow. Roran has had to transform himself from simple farmer to cold-blooded killer and leader, and goes with Eragon and Saphira to lend them aid. After the foul business is complete, and Roran's fianc?e is saved, they go back to the Varden (a group opposed to the King's rule) to advance on the King's territories.

Upon their return, Eragon is tasked with sitting in on deliberations in Tronjheim (the main dwarf city) in order to ensure a Varden-supporting dwarf is elected king. After much turmoil, and an attempt on Eragon's life, Eragon's good friend, Orik, is crowned. Orik throws his support behind the Varden, and Eragon is able to return to the battlefield.

A quick trip to his elf tutor, Oromis, proves that Eragon is prepared to train the next Free Riders, and Oromis (along with his dragon, Glaedr) decides to help the elves on their front lines. Oromis and Glaedr are struck down by Murtagh (and his dragon, Thorn). However, Glaedr gave Eragon his 'heart of hearts,' so his consciousness lives on.

Although it is another 'middle' book, Brisingr does more than move the story along. So much is revealed, and so much is accomplished, that the reader isn't left feeling frustrated by a cliff-hanger ending, they are satisfied and filled with the anticipation of the series' conclusion. Certainly the best of the series so far.