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Tales from Alagaësia#1
The Fork, the Witch, and the Worm: Eragon
It's been a year since Eragon departed Alagaësia in search of the perfect home to train a new generation of Dragon Riders.
Now he is struggling with an endless sea of tasks: constructing a vast dragonhold, wrangling with suppliers, guarding dragon eggs and dealing with belligerent Urgals and haughty elves. Then a vision from the Eldunarí, unexpected visitors and an exciting Urgal legend offer a much-needed distraction and a new perspective.
This volume features three original stories set in Alagaësia, interspersed with scenes from Eragon's own unfolding adventure. Included is an excerpt from the memoir of the unforgettable witch and fortune-teller Angela the herbalist, penned by Angela Paolini, the inspiration for the character, herself!
Relish the incomparable imagination of Christopher Paolini in this thrilling new collection of stories based in the world of the Inheritance Cycle.
Now he is struggling with an endless sea of tasks: constructing a vast dragonhold, wrangling with suppliers, guarding dragon eggs and dealing with belligerent Urgals and haughty elves. Then a vision from the Eldunarí, unexpected visitors and an exciting Urgal legend offer a much-needed distraction and a new perspective.
This volume features three original stories set in Alagaësia, interspersed with scenes from Eragon's own unfolding adventure. Included is an excerpt from the memoir of the unforgettable witch and fortune-teller Angela the herbalist, penned by Angela Paolini, the inspiration for the character, herself!
Relish the incomparable imagination of Christopher Paolini in this thrilling new collection of stories based in the world of the Inheritance Cycle.
288 pages, ebook
First published December 31, 2018
About the author
Christopher Paolini
83books39.4kfollowersChristopher Paolini was born in Southern California and has lived most of his life in Paradise Valley, Montana. He published his first novel,Eragon,in 2003 at the age of nineteen, and quickly became a publishing phenomenon. His Inheritance Cycle—Eragonand its three sequels—have sold nearly 40 million copies worldwide.
To Sleep in a Sea of Stars
was his first adult novel.
VisitPaolini.netandFractalverse.netfor the latest news about this project and follow Christopher onFacebook,Instagram,Twitter,andTikTok.
VisitPaolini.netandFractalverse.netfor the latest news about this project and follow Christopher onFacebook,Instagram,Twitter,andTikTok.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,792 reviews
December 9, 2020
Oh. My. God. I can't breathe.
The tales contained in this volume are all true, and every one is false. I leave it to the discerning reader to untangle the contrary strands of history...
My prayers have been answered.
I am an absolutelymassive long-time fanof Paolini's work and have spent the last seven years of my life pining over this series.
But that is all in the past - because his new book came out.A NEW BOOK!!!!(*cue the hyperventilating*)
I just...whew...getting a bit dizzy from the excitement. Without further ado, let's dive into the three brand-new short stories from the dazzling world of Alagaësia:
The Fork
Restoring the race of dragons, leading the Riders and protecting the Eldunarí were all responsibilities he wanted, welcomed...And yet...Eragon never expected that he would spend so much of his life doing this.Eragon - strongest Dragon Rider in a century, Shadeslayer, defeater of kings - has had his life reduced to an endless stream ofpetty squabbles and paperwork.
Sure, restoring the dragon race seemed like an exciting job butin real life...not quite so much.
The Eldunarí, essentially dragon souls, decide to show Eragon how they passed centuries underground and the young Dragon Rider is soon swept intoan entirely unexpected story.
This one was interesting, but it took me entirely too long to figure out the real identity "Tornac" -I am extraordinarily densesometimes (most times). So I spent much of this story going,interesting...but why is this one included??
Of course, once everything is revealed, I did have an AHA moment and enjoyed the story significantly more.
However, this one definitely felt like a side story and I wish it would have had a bit more weight (and would have impacted the main plot of the Eragon series more).
The Witch
As he stopped in front of Elva, she looked p at him with her violet eyes and smiled, wide and sharp-toothed, like a cat before a mouse. "Greetings, Eragon," she said.Angela, themischievous and mayhem-inclinedherbalist, was last seen walking off into the distance with young Elva.
Elva,a cursed child,must suffer with whatever pains those around her feel. If they're lonely, she feels lonely. If they're hurt, she feels hurt.
Due to Eragon'sincomplete and incompetent curse-removal skills,Elva still feels all human suffering but now is able to wield it as a weapon, making her service highly sought after.
Angela spirited the girl away and sought to raise her without attempted kidnappers and murderers surrounding her.
However, Angela does not intend to raise the child in complete isolation and pays a visit to Eragon.
"Amiss?" The herbalist laughed, bright and merry. "No, nothing amiss. You have an overly suspicious mind, Shadeslayer."And, much to Eragon's amusement, Angela brings with her anincomplete and highly dubious autobiographyfor his perusal.
I did enjoy this one significantly more than the first - after all, what's not to love when Angela's in the scene?!
However, Paolini did such an excellent job of making Elvasullen, surly and unlikablein the main series that I struggled to disconnect myself from that initial impression.
It's very difficult to turn around a character's personality, and infinitely moreso in a short story.
I did have a better understanding of Elva by the end...but honestly, part of me wish this entire story consisted of Angela running around wielding her battle ax.
Also, just as a cool fact, the real-life Angela (aka Christopher Paolini's sister) wrote part of this one - isn't that the coolest?
The Worm
She did not understand magic. She put her trust in bone and muscle, not words and potions.Ilgra, a young urgal, witnessed the utter destruction of home at the claws of one, terrible wild dragon.
...she saw the dragon ravage their farms with fire and claw and the sweep of his jagged tail.Vèrmund, the dragon, sees little difference between friend and foe, between life and death, between Urgal and cattle. And, with barely any effort, he decimates Ilgra's family.
He could life staggering amounts of stone with a word, but he couldn't turn aside death. No one could.Upon the death of her father,Ilgra swears revenge.And she spends years, and years, working her way towards that goal.
The rest of the clan may have forgotten, some have even forgiven, but not Ilgra. Never.
She will kill that dragon or die trying. But when push comes to shove, she begins to realize the truth of an old adage,the enemy of my enemy is my friend...
This one was honestly my favorite - and it doesn't focus on any of the originals (go figure!).
I think the characters are extremely well done, the plot was unique and it had a really polished feel to it - almost like an old legend passed down from the ages.
Overall
I'm just OVER the mother-flipping MOON that Paolini has published another book. Really, truly.
Fingers crossed that this is the start of a new era for him!
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April 6, 2021
"Does the eagle worry about the length of the day? Does the bear or the deer or the fish in the sea? No. So why should you?"
This new instalment from the world of Eragon and Saphira was more than I hoped it would be. Initially, I had my doubts that a few short stories would do the trick – that they would be able to transport me back into this world. But to my great surprise, it was the perfect book for several reasons. Of course, it’s wonderful to see what happens to Eragon and his people – and dragon – after he left Alagaësia. We get smaller and bigger glimpses of familiar characters; sometimes they are only mentioned in a sentence or two, but some of them even appear in one of the stories. The best thing about this book, however, is one very special and intriguing novella…
The book is divided up into three parts as the title suggests. Each part contains three chapters. Chapters one and three are always told from Eragon’s point of view and serve as frames for chapter two.The Witch,Part II, chapter two was written by Christopher Paolini’s sister Angela who was the inspiration for the character with the same name that also happens to be at the centre of said chapter. I must admit that it was my least favourite story out of the three. It did not really catch my interest. I loved the story in Part I, though, but my favourite remains the one from Part III,The Worm of Kulkaras.I don’t think that I have ever absorbed one of Paolini’s stories quite like this.
I utterly forgot about my surroundings, and for a few moments, the events from the book became more real than reality itself. It was a powerful story about revenge, empowerment, and the nature of things. It is told from the point of view of an Urgal woman who swears to kill the dragon that killed her father and destroyed her village. The more I think about it, the more genius it becomes. But I don’t want to take away too much, so you should make sure to read it yourself.
Since this is only Volume I, I expect that one or two more books with novellas will follow. I expect that the next one will be told from Arya’s POV, but I might have to sit and wait patiently to find out. After reading this book, though, this might be easier said than done.
Thank you to EDPR for providing me with a free copy in return for an honest review.
Find more of my books on Instagram
This new instalment from the world of Eragon and Saphira was more than I hoped it would be. Initially, I had my doubts that a few short stories would do the trick – that they would be able to transport me back into this world. But to my great surprise, it was the perfect book for several reasons. Of course, it’s wonderful to see what happens to Eragon and his people – and dragon – after he left Alagaësia. We get smaller and bigger glimpses of familiar characters; sometimes they are only mentioned in a sentence or two, but some of them even appear in one of the stories. The best thing about this book, however, is one very special and intriguing novella…
The book is divided up into three parts as the title suggests. Each part contains three chapters. Chapters one and three are always told from Eragon’s point of view and serve as frames for chapter two.The Witch,Part II, chapter two was written by Christopher Paolini’s sister Angela who was the inspiration for the character with the same name that also happens to be at the centre of said chapter. I must admit that it was my least favourite story out of the three. It did not really catch my interest. I loved the story in Part I, though, but my favourite remains the one from Part III,The Worm of Kulkaras.I don’t think that I have ever absorbed one of Paolini’s stories quite like this.
I utterly forgot about my surroundings, and for a few moments, the events from the book became more real than reality itself. It was a powerful story about revenge, empowerment, and the nature of things. It is told from the point of view of an Urgal woman who swears to kill the dragon that killed her father and destroyed her village. The more I think about it, the more genius it becomes. But I don’t want to take away too much, so you should make sure to read it yourself.
Since this is only Volume I, I expect that one or two more books with novellas will follow. I expect that the next one will be told from Arya’s POV, but I might have to sit and wait patiently to find out. After reading this book, though, this might be easier said than done.
Thank you to EDPR for providing me with a free copy in return for an honest review.
Find more of my books on Instagram
August 24, 2019
Bring on the babies!
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
January 13, 2019
I have come home.
Just look at this beauty:
What a blast of fresh air this has been; I had forgotten what it felt like to devour a book so pure in its storytelling that you lose track of time. I feel like a reader again, if that is even possible.
I read Eragon back in high school. I remember that time clearly. We had chatted about Saphira, Brom, Nasuada, Galbatorix in between classes, a discussion filled with starry-eyed wonder for our new favorite series after Harry Potter. And what a joy it is to relive those moments through a book that doesn’t disappoint, as most sequels do. I have never been gladder to be a reader, to be a lover of books, as I do now, because what is life without delving into tales of dragons and magic?
The first thing I would like to mention is that do not hesitate to read the book after seeing it’s a compilation of short stories – truth be told, I did have my inhibitions because after all, Paolini’s customary 500+ paged books are why we have grown to love the author. But where the small book could have left my thirst unquenched, I find myself simply wanting more, having grown more fond, rather than less, of the characters I first started loving in Eragon.
Tales from Alagaesia is split into three stories. We start with a prologue detailing Eragon’s work since he has left for the island housing the many dragon eggs. The valley has undergone extreme construction, and Eragon realizes there is much work to be done still, although that has him in low spirits owing to his thirst for knowing and attaining everything at once. Underlining his concerns is the still open wound from having left everything, including the woman he loved, behind to serve the greater purpose, as he sees it.
The Fork
Straight up a nod to one of the main characters from The Inheritance Cycle (and whom everyone either pities or hates, depending on how they see him – I for one grew to love him because he did go through a lot of shit) The Fork is about Murtagh’s encounter with foes in a drab inn in a small town. There he meets Essie, a small girl considering leaving her town for good following bullying at the hands of the town’s more privileged kids. Told from the perspective of the Eldunari to cheer up Eragon’s spirits, the story serves to teach a few lessons, not least of which is one we all must remember:
Sometimes you have to stand and fight. Sometimes running away is not an option.
Although the story doesn’t offer many details about Murtagh’s life following the great war with Galbatorix, it is evident he is still an outcast and would need to overcome a lot of his fears in the coming years to find true happiness.
The Witch
A first, I think, in Paolini’s works as this one was written by his sister, Angela, the woman after whom our beloved witch Angela is named in the books. Eragon and Saphira are visited by Angela and Solembum (ah, how I missed that cat), accompanied, unexpectedly by Elva, the child Eragon “blessed”. We discover Angela has been writing a biography, and she asks Eragon to read the handful of chapters she has completed, some of which detail how Elva came to be with the witch, having previously been housed [or imprisoned, depends on how you see it] in Nasuada’s castle. The story sure made me hope Paolini actually writes a biography for Angela as I would love to know what quests she had gone on before meeting Eragon in the first book.
The Worm
Much longer than the other two stories, this one turned out to be my favorite. A normal day in the valley ends disastrously following a grave tragedy. Everyone, the elves, the urgals, the dwarves and Eragon and Saphira, are overcome with despair. Amidst the melancholic gathering, Eragon asks the Urgal leader to tell him a tale to cheer him up. And we find ourselves in a land centuries old, where an Urgal clan is attacked by Vermund, a great, black worm of a dragon who wreaks havoc on an entire village. Ilgra, a young female Urgal, watched the creature devour her father, a mighty leader. Thereupon she vows revenge and bids her time as following a lengthy feast, the dragon perches itself atop the highest mountain and falls into a deep slumber, till when it will get hungry again and return to hunt and scrounge for food. Ilgra embarks on a mission to train herself, so as to become strong enough to defeat the mighty beast. We see her first becoming one of the Anointed (Kull – as mentioned in The Inheritance Cycle) then trying to attack the dragon herself then challenging a shaman to teach her magic so she could fight the dragon using unseen forces. As each of her efforts wears her down, she refuses to lose hope, using her deceased father’s horn as a source of motivation. The story’s ending was the book’s peak for me, as we learn how not every quest can go as you planned. To see how Ilgra fared in her self-imposed mission to singlehandedly fight a dragon, I leave you the task to read the book yourself.
As the story ended, I found myself once again inspired by the unique way Paolini draws his characters. Who knew an Urgal, a beast of a race we learned to hate in the first few books, could be a source of inspiration?
But there were still things in life he could not overcome – things that no one could. It was a sobering thought. When Eragon was younger, the knowledge would have bothered him. now, though, he understood the wisdom of acceptance.
As the story drew to an end, Eragon wondered anew why he put so much pressure on himself to always win. And just then his companions delivered a piece of happy news, a note on which the novel ends, leaving you hoping Paolini would pick up his pen soon.
To conclude, I didn’t know I needed the warmth of Saphira’s character, the strength from the Urgal’s way of living, the resilience with which Eragon has persevered, the quirkiness of Angela and the might yet beauty of all dragons until I picked up this book. I sorely craved the happiness one gets from reading a satisfying novel. I have always been, and I always will be, a true fan of Paolini’s works and I hope to heaven we get a series based on Eragon’s story (not the garbage movie they churned out years ago) to sate my hunger at least a bit until Paolini releases another book.
“Books should go where they will be most appreciated, and not sit unread, gathering dust on a forgotten shelf, don't you agree?”
― Christopher Paolini
Just look at this beauty:
What a blast of fresh air this has been; I had forgotten what it felt like to devour a book so pure in its storytelling that you lose track of time. I feel like a reader again, if that is even possible.
I read Eragon back in high school. I remember that time clearly. We had chatted about Saphira, Brom, Nasuada, Galbatorix in between classes, a discussion filled with starry-eyed wonder for our new favorite series after Harry Potter. And what a joy it is to relive those moments through a book that doesn’t disappoint, as most sequels do. I have never been gladder to be a reader, to be a lover of books, as I do now, because what is life without delving into tales of dragons and magic?
The first thing I would like to mention is that do not hesitate to read the book after seeing it’s a compilation of short stories – truth be told, I did have my inhibitions because after all, Paolini’s customary 500+ paged books are why we have grown to love the author. But where the small book could have left my thirst unquenched, I find myself simply wanting more, having grown more fond, rather than less, of the characters I first started loving in Eragon.
Tales from Alagaesia is split into three stories. We start with a prologue detailing Eragon’s work since he has left for the island housing the many dragon eggs. The valley has undergone extreme construction, and Eragon realizes there is much work to be done still, although that has him in low spirits owing to his thirst for knowing and attaining everything at once. Underlining his concerns is the still open wound from having left everything, including the woman he loved, behind to serve the greater purpose, as he sees it.
The Fork
Straight up a nod to one of the main characters from The Inheritance Cycle (and whom everyone either pities or hates, depending on how they see him – I for one grew to love him because he did go through a lot of shit) The Fork is about Murtagh’s encounter with foes in a drab inn in a small town. There he meets Essie, a small girl considering leaving her town for good following bullying at the hands of the town’s more privileged kids. Told from the perspective of the Eldunari to cheer up Eragon’s spirits, the story serves to teach a few lessons, not least of which is one we all must remember:
Sometimes you have to stand and fight. Sometimes running away is not an option.
Although the story doesn’t offer many details about Murtagh’s life following the great war with Galbatorix, it is evident he is still an outcast and would need to overcome a lot of his fears in the coming years to find true happiness.
The Witch
A first, I think, in Paolini’s works as this one was written by his sister, Angela, the woman after whom our beloved witch Angela is named in the books. Eragon and Saphira are visited by Angela and Solembum (ah, how I missed that cat), accompanied, unexpectedly by Elva, the child Eragon “blessed”. We discover Angela has been writing a biography, and she asks Eragon to read the handful of chapters she has completed, some of which detail how Elva came to be with the witch, having previously been housed [or imprisoned, depends on how you see it] in Nasuada’s castle. The story sure made me hope Paolini actually writes a biography for Angela as I would love to know what quests she had gone on before meeting Eragon in the first book.
The Worm
Much longer than the other two stories, this one turned out to be my favorite. A normal day in the valley ends disastrously following a grave tragedy. Everyone, the elves, the urgals, the dwarves and Eragon and Saphira, are overcome with despair. Amidst the melancholic gathering, Eragon asks the Urgal leader to tell him a tale to cheer him up. And we find ourselves in a land centuries old, where an Urgal clan is attacked by Vermund, a great, black worm of a dragon who wreaks havoc on an entire village. Ilgra, a young female Urgal, watched the creature devour her father, a mighty leader. Thereupon she vows revenge and bids her time as following a lengthy feast, the dragon perches itself atop the highest mountain and falls into a deep slumber, till when it will get hungry again and return to hunt and scrounge for food. Ilgra embarks on a mission to train herself, so as to become strong enough to defeat the mighty beast. We see her first becoming one of the Anointed (Kull – as mentioned in The Inheritance Cycle) then trying to attack the dragon herself then challenging a shaman to teach her magic so she could fight the dragon using unseen forces. As each of her efforts wears her down, she refuses to lose hope, using her deceased father’s horn as a source of motivation. The story’s ending was the book’s peak for me, as we learn how not every quest can go as you planned. To see how Ilgra fared in her self-imposed mission to singlehandedly fight a dragon, I leave you the task to read the book yourself.
As the story ended, I found myself once again inspired by the unique way Paolini draws his characters. Who knew an Urgal, a beast of a race we learned to hate in the first few books, could be a source of inspiration?
But there were still things in life he could not overcome – things that no one could. It was a sobering thought. When Eragon was younger, the knowledge would have bothered him. now, though, he understood the wisdom of acceptance.
As the story drew to an end, Eragon wondered anew why he put so much pressure on himself to always win. And just then his companions delivered a piece of happy news, a note on which the novel ends, leaving you hoping Paolini would pick up his pen soon.
To conclude, I didn’t know I needed the warmth of Saphira’s character, the strength from the Urgal’s way of living, the resilience with which Eragon has persevered, the quirkiness of Angela and the might yet beauty of all dragons until I picked up this book. I sorely craved the happiness one gets from reading a satisfying novel. I have always been, and I always will be, a true fan of Paolini’s works and I hope to heaven we get a series based on Eragon’s story (not the garbage movie they churned out years ago) to sate my hunger at least a bit until Paolini releases another book.
“Books should go where they will be most appreciated, and not sit unread, gathering dust on a forgotten shelf, don't you agree?”
― Christopher Paolini
July 27, 2023
My ONLY complaint of this book - To. Damn. Short.
Overall Rating: A-
I needed about 500+ MORE pages to satisfy myself and was cut short - literally. It left me yearning for more and Paolini better be on the ball here with more cause I NEED IT!!!!!!!
Overall Rating: A-
I needed about 500+ MORE pages to satisfy myself and was cut short - literally. It left me yearning for more and Paolini better be on the ball here with more cause I NEED IT!!!!!!!
January 20, 2019
Cute, but don't get too hyped. It's not Eragon level.
March 28, 2019
At first I was, like:
And after, I was, like:
As for many, it was very exciting that C.Paolini was releasing a new book. I've been a huge fan of Inheritance cycle and couldn't wait for more. And of course, even if I was promised just a "short glimpse", expectations were high. But I was so disappointed!
Also, have you heard about "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe"?
Even not all chapter were written by C. Paolini and half of it is even not about Eragon or any familiar character. It's said that he is working on a sci-fi novel, but 7 years, luv? 7 years to produce this, darling? All we get is this? He published his last book in 2011 and I wonder what else he was doing for 7 years. Yes, I get the fact that he was a teen writing prodigy, he "toured over 135 schools and libraries" (thank you Wikipedia) and writing a book is not an easy job, but 7 years? O_O Even GOT has 2-6 years "breaks" and I am sorry to say, the quality and magnitude is way different.
The chapters have a weird time frame, it jumps from one character to another leaving weird cliffhangers or no hangers at all. Everything is so scattered, leaving me either uncaring or trying to make me wait another indefinite time frame for another book that explain everything but might come out or might not. I think I don't care that much. C.Paolini mentioned that he always wanted and had plans to use Alagaesia world for further stories, but in my opinion, it's not a worthy come-back.
Also, I question the relevance of this book. For example, fans that were 12-16 when Inheritance cycle was at it's peak, now would be ~20-24, does it still interest them? They moved on to different authors and series. Is the book relevant to new readers who, in order to get acquainted with Alagaesia, would have to go through the three previous volumes? I think the "now" factor was lost big time. I always loved authors who write. I might not be a huge fan of their work, but consistency and publishing something every two-three years is a good thing. People don't forget about you. You stay relevant. You move forward. You find a way to talk to readers. You continue series or finish them and start something new. Now we get a half-baked book in hopes to still attract the readers. I think if C. Paolini would have asked "Go big or go home", he should have gone home.
Or I just don't get it. That happens. Sometimes.
And after, I was, like:
As for many, it was very exciting that C.Paolini was releasing a new book. I've been a huge fan of Inheritance cycle and couldn't wait for more. And of course, even if I was promised just a "short glimpse", expectations were high. But I was so disappointed!
Also, have you heard about "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe"?
Even not all chapter were written by C. Paolini and half of it is even not about Eragon or any familiar character. It's said that he is working on a sci-fi novel, but 7 years, luv? 7 years to produce this, darling? All we get is this? He published his last book in 2011 and I wonder what else he was doing for 7 years. Yes, I get the fact that he was a teen writing prodigy, he "toured over 135 schools and libraries" (thank you Wikipedia) and writing a book is not an easy job, but 7 years? O_O Even GOT has 2-6 years "breaks" and I am sorry to say, the quality and magnitude is way different.
The chapters have a weird time frame, it jumps from one character to another leaving weird cliffhangers or no hangers at all. Everything is so scattered, leaving me either uncaring or trying to make me wait another indefinite time frame for another book that explain everything but might come out or might not. I think I don't care that much. C.Paolini mentioned that he always wanted and had plans to use Alagaesia world for further stories, but in my opinion, it's not a worthy come-back.
Also, I question the relevance of this book. For example, fans that were 12-16 when Inheritance cycle was at it's peak, now would be ~20-24, does it still interest them? They moved on to different authors and series. Is the book relevant to new readers who, in order to get acquainted with Alagaesia, would have to go through the three previous volumes? I think the "now" factor was lost big time. I always loved authors who write. I might not be a huge fan of their work, but consistency and publishing something every two-three years is a good thing. People don't forget about you. You stay relevant. You move forward. You find a way to talk to readers. You continue series or finish them and start something new. Now we get a half-baked book in hopes to still attract the readers. I think if C. Paolini would have asked "Go big or go home", he should have gone home.
Or I just don't get it. That happens. Sometimes.
Shelved as 'own-tbr'
October 1, 2020My copy arrived today! Planning to reread the series before picking this up 😊
Love this world!
*********************
YES, YES AND MORE YES!!!
Love this world!
*********************
YES, YES AND MORE YES!!!
April 21, 2019
4 STARS!oh my precious, oh my heart...
The Fork, the Witch, and the Worm isa book Christopher Paolini had not intended to write.
In fact, as he puts it himself in the Afterword, he wrote the first version of “The Worm of Kulkaras” a bit over two years ago as a means of clearing his head between sections of a larger sci-fi project (which I'm anticipating, achingly).
“The Worm” by itself was too short to publish. Thus it sat on his computer, alone and abandoned, until the summer of 2018.
Then a sudden urge to writea Murtaugh story,and his sister Angela's enthusiasm to write a vignette from her character's point of view, was the catalyst we all needed to spark the beginning ofa quick and accelerated publishing schedulethat very summer!
And I, for one, am unbelievably grateful:))
The Fork, the Witch, and the Wormconsists of three short stories intercepted with Eragon's own struggles—of an unknown yet familiar and dangerous stranger on the road (The Fork), a visit anda mystifying excerptfrom the chaotic Angela's memoir (The Witch), and an Urgal tale that wouldsteal you away and surprise you with its honesty(The Worm); it is a brief return to the world ofThe Inheritance Cycleseries.
You need to read the four books ofTICto be able to read this instalment in Alagaësia!
The Inheritance Cycle (check the end of review for its books) is one of those fantasy series that I believe every fantasy-loving teenager should read—with anexceptional magic system and diverse and detailed world building that only gets better as the series processes!
I hope you savour its delicious flavour and precious aftertaste as much as I did and treasure every short second of it!
Storyline
The Fork:
It’s been a year since Eragon—Shadeslayer, Argetlam, Dragon Rider, Kingslayer, and bearer of many more names—departed Alagaësia in search of the perfect home to train a new generation of Dragon Riders.
From a war full of risky fights and unexpected twists,now he is struggling with an endless sea of tasks:constructing a vast dragonhold, wrangling with suppliers, guarding dragon eggs, and dealing with belligerent Urgals and haughty elves.
And of course he finds himself unbelievably missing the action.
To cure him of this restlessness and offer him a much-needed distraction and a new perspective,the Eldunarí show him a vision of someone he knew, now far in the northwest.
“Images blossomed before him, and within them Eragon saw and felt far more than he’d expected…”
I'm all feels! I've been waiting for a peak at what this “Tornac” (c’mon, we all know who he truly is; M—uhum, nope, not spoiling it) has been up to in the north! And I'm so glad he's got a purpose and hashealed and changed so much*eyes shaped like two hearts the size of the biggest pizza on earth*
This short story was so precious:))
The Witch:
We all knowAngela the herbalist with a gift for chaos and mystery.And we all know Elva, the bittercursedblessed child that despises Eragon and literally everyone.
Now imagine these two at your doorstep.Yeah, not a pleasant surprise. You might suspect that something's amiss.
Well, if you count the witch wanting to get rid of that hurricane of a child for a few days something amiss, then yes, something is.
That fan favourite enigma of a witch—Angela of many names—brings with herselfan excerpt from her memoir; written by Angela Paolini,Christopher's sister and the inspiration for the character!
I loved this short look into her past and I can't wait for more *sighh*
The Worm:
Eragon—grief stricken and tired—is in need of a story to learn a lesson;that it is foolish to fight the inevitable.
And an Urgal epic storyteller with an unforgettable legend of the past is the best thing he could possibly hope for!
Ilgra is a daughter of a respected Kull (the bigger and stronger of the Urgals) in their clan. That all changes whena dark and terrifying worm of a dragondescends upon them, slaughtering their friends and families, and choosing the mountain next to their valley as his lair.
What enchanted me the most about this story was itsdetailed andlogicallook on epics, and cunning take of bravery with shocking twists!
It reminded me of what I count as Paolini's ultimate masterpiece—The Epic of Carvahall (what I like to call Roran's chapters fromEldest).
It was also a testament to how much I love this species and their unique existence! There was another Urgal tale I loved before that was among the deleted scenes ofBrisingr.
The Worm is definitely my favourite story of the book!
Storytelling
Christopher Paolini: he manages to constantly amaze me with his apt writing and moving prose. I don't know what it is about it; it's fantastically magical, powerful, and enchanting in a classic way.
To phrase it perfectly,reading Paolini is like sitting around the fire and listening to that epic storyteller who spins a tale and sucks you in thoroughly!
I mean, look at this:
Billows of smoke fouled the air, and ash fell thick as snow until a false twilight blanketed the valley, a dark shroud of destruction heavy with grief, bitter with anger.
Angela Paolini: as the inspiration for the character Angela, she used to provide the herbalist's dialogues in the original four books (yes, our favourite chitchats and mysterious witty remarks from the witch were greatly provided byChristopher's fabulous sister!) And now, for the first time, she's picked up the pen and blessed us with her prose:)
Chapter V: On the Nature of Stars(which is an excerpt from the witch's memoir written by Angela) isuniquely written,sounding completely like the chaos lover she is.
It both furthers the character's mystery and serves to give us a peak atthe science and science fiction woven into the fantasy world of Alagaësia—masterfully showing us how they would perceive our known and unknown facts; with the promise of more!
Characterization and Relationships
Eragon: our powerful and wise boy is ever the delight to read! I will never deny the fact that I've repeatedly fangirled over him—cause it's not something I'm ashamed of:)
He is seriouslyone of the best and mostrealepic heroes!
Did I say that he's wise? Oh I did—but whatever I'll say it again.He is dedicated and devoted to his joband wishes to only focus on the tremendous task at hand. And Saphira is ever the balance he's needed!
I think they'll be the best teachers ever when the time comes.
Murtaugh: *swoons* I was actually screaming when he thought about going back!! And that FIGHT. Thank you Christopher!
He hashealed beautifully in his solitude.I loved his interactions with the little girl. And the brief look at his grown bond with Thorn was something I appreciated! *Sighhh* Where is Book Five and more Murtaugh??
Angela: do I even need to declare my utterobsessionor is it an established fact by now? I'm in awe of Christopher's ability to come up withsuch memorable characters*heart eyes, sheepish grin*
I need an Angela in my life—accompanied by a Solembum if possible?Her curiosity, nosiness, love for mayhem, different perception of order, questioning of beliefs, and her ideasare only some of the things Iadoreabout her!
Elva: the tortured, selfish, spoiled child who is in need of steadfast love and attention perhaps more than anyone!
She is yet again on the offensive, and hurts without a second thought. But she's still a child that didn't have time to grow naturally. I'm happy about where Christopher is now leading her with this book, the path he put her on:) The character development is on point!
Ilgra: an unexpected favourite of mine, I'd say. She's a new character of the past, a legend among the Urgals, whose inspiring tale makes up the largest parts of The Fork, the Witch, and the Worm.
Daring, smart, cunning, brave but not foolishly so, proud but not illogical so,she's yet another embodiment of epic yet unique and rational awesomeness.
Worldbuilding
My general reaction towards Alagaësia'smagic system, rules, and interwoven fabric of fantasy leading to sci-fi and borrowing from science theoriesis infatuation and adoration at first, then contemplation, and in the end more breathless wow's...
I find thecriticismthat it's not original because there are elves and dwarves, with mostly the popular characteristics related to elves and dwarves in fantasy (like LoTR) to be not relevant.
Because he is borrowing from the existing mythology and contributing his own spectacular reasoning to it.It's actually a great and precious form of art, and one that I relish!
Not to even discuss the amazing nature of the dragons, the unmatched Urgals, the history of humans, or the impressive attention to languages and their twists and interactions in names!
I'm glad that Christopher Paolini took the unexpected and sudden chance to provide us desperate people with a brief visit back to his fan favourite world.
And I can't wait for his Sci-Fi novel and later his Inheritance Book Five and other prequels/sequels to come out into the world!
Companions
Related books:
•Eragon(The Inheritance Cycle, #1)
•Eldest(The Inheritance Cycle, #2)
•Brisingr(The Inheritance Cycle, #3)
•Inheritance(The Inheritance Cycle, #4)
Book playlist:
• “I Could Use a Love Song” by Maren Morris (the beginning)
• “Dear Hate” by Maren Morris ft. Vince Gill (The Fork)
• “Daydream” by Wallace Collection (The Fork)
• “Planetarium” by Justin Hurwitz [Instrumental] (The Witch)
• “Way Down We Go” by Kaleo (The Worm)
• “Broken Bones” by Kaleo (The Worm)
• “Last Day Alive” by The Chainsmokers ft. Florida Georgia Line (the end)
Happiness, Eragon had decided, was a fleeting, futile thing to pursue. Contentment, on the other hand, was a far more worthwhile goal.
The Fork, the Witch, and the Worm isa book Christopher Paolini had not intended to write.
In fact, as he puts it himself in the Afterword, he wrote the first version of “The Worm of Kulkaras” a bit over two years ago as a means of clearing his head between sections of a larger sci-fi project (which I'm anticipating, achingly).
“The Worm” by itself was too short to publish. Thus it sat on his computer, alone and abandoned, until the summer of 2018.
Then a sudden urge to writea Murtaugh story,and his sister Angela's enthusiasm to write a vignette from her character's point of view, was the catalyst we all needed to spark the beginning ofa quick and accelerated publishing schedulethat very summer!
And I, for one, am unbelievably grateful:))
“Be careful of waiting too long, though, Argetlam. The future belongs to those who seize it.”
The Fork, the Witch, and the Wormconsists of three short stories intercepted with Eragon's own struggles—of an unknown yet familiar and dangerous stranger on the road (The Fork), a visit anda mystifying excerptfrom the chaotic Angela's memoir (The Witch), and an Urgal tale that wouldsteal you away and surprise you with its honesty(The Worm); it is a brief return to the world ofThe Inheritance Cycleseries.
You need to read the four books ofTICto be able to read this instalment in Alagaësia!
“You can’t break something and mend it a moment later with pretty words. Broken things stay broken. Wounds heal into scars, not skin.”
The Inheritance Cycle (check the end of review for its books) is one of those fantasy series that I believe every fantasy-loving teenager should read—with anexceptional magic system and diverse and detailed world building that only gets better as the series processes!
“So you made it all up.”
“No,” she said, giving him a serious look over her flashing needles. “I did not. Even if I had,there are often lessons worth learning in stories. Wouldn’t you agree?”
I hope you savour its delicious flavour and precious aftertaste as much as I did and treasure every short second of it!
Storyline
The Fork:
It’s been a year since Eragon—Shadeslayer, Argetlam, Dragon Rider, Kingslayer, and bearer of many more names—departed Alagaësia in search of the perfect home to train a new generation of Dragon Riders.
From a war full of risky fights and unexpected twists,now he is struggling with an endless sea of tasks:constructing a vast dragonhold, wrangling with suppliers, guarding dragon eggs, and dealing with belligerent Urgals and haughty elves.
Sometimes it was easier to fight a battle than to figure out how to deal with the more mundane details of life.
And of course he finds himself unbelievably missing the action.
To cure him of this restlessness and offer him a much-needed distraction and a new perspective,the Eldunarí show him a vision of someone he knew, now far in the northwest.
“Images blossomed before him, and within them Eragon saw and felt far more than he’d expected…”
“Or, and this is just a suggestion, you could try to fix the problem instead of running away.”
I'm all feels! I've been waiting for a peak at what this “Tornac” (c’mon, we all know who he truly is; M—uhum, nope, not spoiling it) has been up to in the north! And I'm so glad he's got a purpose and hashealed and changed so much*eyes shaped like two hearts the size of the biggest pizza on earth*
This short story was so precious:))
The Witch:
We all knowAngela the herbalist with a gift for chaos and mystery.And we all know Elva, the bitter
Many will advise you to dig for the truth, but you must never, never do that. I have dug. I have seen what lies below, and I would not wish that upon the worst of you.
Now imagine these two at your doorstep.Yeah, not a pleasant surprise. You might suspect that something's amiss.
Well, if you count the witch wanting to get rid of that hurricane of a child for a few days something amiss, then yes, something is.
It is so obvious; how could it not be true? But the obvious is often an illusion.
That fan favourite enigma of a witch—Angela of many names—brings with herselfan excerpt from her memoir; written by Angela Paolini,Christopher's sister and the inspiration for the character!
I loved this short look into her past and I can't wait for more *sighh*
The Worm:
Eragon—grief stricken and tired—is in need of a story to learn a lesson;that it is foolish to fight the inevitable.
And an Urgal epic storyteller with an unforgettable legend of the past is the best thing he could possibly hope for!
“Some things there are we cannot change. There is no glory in fighting the inevitable. Do you not understand?”
Ilgra is a daughter of a respected Kull (the bigger and stronger of the Urgals) in their clan. That all changes whena dark and terrifying worm of a dragondescends upon them, slaughtering their friends and families, and choosing the mountain next to their valley as his lair.
“Abandon your quest for vengeance ere it destroys you.”
What enchanted me the most about this story was itsdetailed andlogicallook on epics, and cunning take of bravery with shocking twists!
It reminded me of what I count as Paolini's ultimate masterpiece—The Epic of Carvahall (what I like to call Roran's chapters fromEldest).
None were exempt: not bear nor wolf nor cat nor even the most fearsome of hunters. All fell prey in time. It was not a question ofifbut when.
It was also a testament to how much I love this species and their unique existence! There was another Urgal tale I loved before that was among the deleted scenes ofBrisingr.
The Worm is definitely my favourite story of the book!
Storytelling
Worrying about the time is exactly what you need curing of. Does the eagle worry about the length of the day? Does the bear or the deer or the fish in the sea? No. So why should you? Chew what you can and leave the rest for tomorrow.
Christopher Paolini: he manages to constantly amaze me with his apt writing and moving prose. I don't know what it is about it; it's fantastically magical, powerful, and enchanting in a classic way.
To phrase it perfectly,reading Paolini is like sitting around the fire and listening to that epic storyteller who spins a tale and sucks you in thoroughly!
I mean, look at this:
Billows of smoke fouled the air, and ash fell thick as snow until a false twilight blanketed the valley, a dark shroud of destruction heavy with grief, bitter with anger.
Angela Paolini: as the inspiration for the character Angela, she used to provide the herbalist's dialogues in the original four books (yes, our favourite chitchats and mysterious witty remarks from the witch were greatly provided byChristopher's fabulous sister!) And now, for the first time, she's picked up the pen and blessed us with her prose:)
All matter in the universe is in motion;
all motion is relative.
Chapter V: On the Nature of Stars(which is an excerpt from the witch's memoir written by Angela) isuniquely written,sounding completely like the chaos lover she is.
It both furthers the character's mystery and serves to give us a peak atthe science and science fiction woven into the fantasy world of Alagaësia—masterfully showing us how they would perceive our known and unknown facts; with the promise of more!
Characterization and Relationships
Eragon: our powerful and wise boy is ever the delight to read! I will never deny the fact that I've repeatedly fangirled over him—cause it's not something I'm ashamed of:)
He is seriouslyone of the best and mostrealepic heroes!
I know there are many, many things I can’t control.Eragon allowed himself a brief, grim smile.But knowing and doing are two different things.
Did I say that he's wise? Oh I did—but whatever I'll say it again.He is dedicated and devoted to his joband wishes to only focus on the tremendous task at hand. And Saphira is ever the balance he's needed!
I think they'll be the best teachers ever when the time comes.
Murtaugh: *swoons* I was actually screaming when he thought about going back!! And that FIGHT. Thank you Christopher!
“A scar is something to admire."
“You’re wrong, it just means you’re broken.”
“But sometimes, if you work very hard, you can mend a break so that it’s stronger than before.”
He hashealed beautifully in his solitude.I loved his interactions with the little girl. And the brief look at his grown bond with Thorn was something I appreciated! *Sighhh* Where is Book Five and more Murtaugh??
Angela: do I even need to declare my utterobsessionor is it an established fact by now? I'm in awe of Christopher's ability to come up withsuch memorable characters*heart eyes, sheepish grin*
Strive for wisdom! Or at least a decrease in idiocy.
I need an Angela in my life—accompanied by a Solembum if possible?Her curiosity, nosiness, love for mayhem, different perception of order, questioning of beliefs, and her ideasare only some of the things Iadoreabout her!
Elva: the tortured, selfish, spoiled child who is in need of steadfast love and attention perhaps more than anyone!
“People are fragile—poke them here or there and watch them crumble.”
She is yet again on the offensive, and hurts without a second thought. But she's still a child that didn't have time to grow naturally. I'm happy about where Christopher is now leading her with this book, the path he put her on:) The character development is on point!
Ilgra: an unexpected favourite of mine, I'd say. She's a new character of the past, a legend among the Urgals, whose inspiring tale makes up the largest parts of The Fork, the Witch, and the Worm.
“I do fear,” said Ilgra. “But it does not stop me.”
Daring, smart, cunning, brave but not foolishly so, proud but not illogical so,she's yet another embodiment of epic yet unique and rational awesomeness.
Worldbuilding
The span and depth of existence is far greater than anyone can know—not even the oldest dragon or the wisest elf. I have seen more than most, but even that is less than a particle of dust, smaller than the smallest thing, and then smaller still.
My general reaction towards Alagaësia'smagic system, rules, and interwoven fabric of fantasy leading to sci-fi and borrowing from science theoriesis infatuation and adoration at first, then contemplation, and in the end more breathless wow's...
I find thecriticismthat it's not original because there are elves and dwarves, with mostly the popular characteristics related to elves and dwarves in fantasy (like LoTR) to be not relevant.
Because he is borrowing from the existing mythology and contributing his own spectacular reasoning to it.It's actually a great and precious form of art, and one that I relish!
Not to even discuss the amazing nature of the dragons, the unmatched Urgals, the history of humans, or the impressive attention to languages and their twists and interactions in names!
I'm glad that Christopher Paolini took the unexpected and sudden chance to provide us desperate people with a brief visit back to his fan favourite world.
“No matter your chosen path, you have my blessing. May the gods grant you good fortune, and may you always be of sharp mind and clear conscience.”
And I can't wait for his Sci-Fi novel and later his Inheritance Book Five and other prequels/sequels to come out into the world!
Companions
Related books:
•Eragon(The Inheritance Cycle, #1)
•Eldest(The Inheritance Cycle, #2)
•Brisingr(The Inheritance Cycle, #3)
•Inheritance(The Inheritance Cycle, #4)
Book playlist:
• “I Could Use a Love Song” by Maren Morris (the beginning)
• “Dear Hate” by Maren Morris ft. Vince Gill (The Fork)
• “Daydream” by Wallace Collection (The Fork)
• “Planetarium” by Justin Hurwitz [Instrumental] (The Witch)
• “Way Down We Go” by Kaleo (The Worm)
• “Broken Bones” by Kaleo (The Worm)
• “Last Day Alive” by The Chainsmokers ft. Florida Georgia Line (the end)
July 14, 2021
I now have a YouTube channel that I run with my brother, called 'The Brothers Gwynne'. Check it out -The Brothers Gwynne
"The day the dragon arrived was a day of death".
The Fork, the Witch, and the Worm continues a year after the end of the Inheritance Cycle with a few interlinked short stories. It consists of many characters from the series and addresses the trials they have faced since the aftermath. It is essentially the compiling of a few short stories, some set in the present, some retelling myths, and some about the past. In all, it was an interesting amalgamation of themes and stories that was engaging and interesting to read.
I shall not name any characters that were in the Inheritance Cycle to avoid spoilers, so will focus on what was completely new.
The final third of the book was the reciting of an old legend about revenge. A dragon destroys a village and one victim seeks vengeance for her fathers death. She will do anything to accomplish her mission, and dedicates all her time to this purpose. It was a well told story that was exciting and unpredictable, with a moral message that most tales do have.
"Strive for wisdom! Or at least a decrease in idiocy"
The prose was very smooth and easy to read, with a poetical edge to it that was sophisticated and consistently clear. This has been a piece of Paolini's writing I have always liked and that was no different here.
"A new beginning had dawned for the dragons"
This book was a fun return to this world and leaves much hope for a future series, as many hints are placed with stories untold and possible dangers referenced too. I hope this does bear fruit and that Paolini does write a new series, especially after the intriguing events within this book.
4/5 stars
"The day the dragon arrived was a day of death".
The Fork, the Witch, and the Worm continues a year after the end of the Inheritance Cycle with a few interlinked short stories. It consists of many characters from the series and addresses the trials they have faced since the aftermath. It is essentially the compiling of a few short stories, some set in the present, some retelling myths, and some about the past. In all, it was an interesting amalgamation of themes and stories that was engaging and interesting to read.
I shall not name any characters that were in the Inheritance Cycle to avoid spoilers, so will focus on what was completely new.
The final third of the book was the reciting of an old legend about revenge. A dragon destroys a village and one victim seeks vengeance for her fathers death. She will do anything to accomplish her mission, and dedicates all her time to this purpose. It was a well told story that was exciting and unpredictable, with a moral message that most tales do have.
"Strive for wisdom! Or at least a decrease in idiocy"
The prose was very smooth and easy to read, with a poetical edge to it that was sophisticated and consistently clear. This has been a piece of Paolini's writing I have always liked and that was no different here.
"A new beginning had dawned for the dragons"
This book was a fun return to this world and leaves much hope for a future series, as many hints are placed with stories untold and possible dangers referenced too. I hope this does bear fruit and that Paolini does write a new series, especially after the intriguing events within this book.
4/5 stars
March 11, 2020
Ang tinidor, ang mangkukulam at ang uod.... (The Fork, The Witch And the Worm)
Based on the title it has three parts. It's nice to be back in the world of Eragon. I had the book since January of 2019 but because of too many TBR books I'm lacking behind reading.
Anyway, The Fork is about the fork 😊😋 (not really). Based on Eragon POV it's nice to see Murtagh in a heroic ways that I just saw in him on the first book. And the fork, was it big and strong enough? Just lace it with words from the ancient tongue...
The Witch is about the herbalist named Angela who is writing an autho biography. Don't want to expound because it is the story. ✌️✌️✌️
The Worm, this is quite the story. If you remove the first two parts it merits ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. Paolini brought me to a world that let me forget for awhile what's happening in the real world and let me dwelt in a world of adventure.
The Fork - ⭐⭐⭐
The Witch - ⭐⭐
The Worm - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Average - 3.33⭐
Based on the title it has three parts. It's nice to be back in the world of Eragon. I had the book since January of 2019 but because of too many TBR books I'm lacking behind reading.
Anyway, The Fork is about the fork 😊😋 (not really). Based on Eragon POV it's nice to see Murtagh in a heroic ways that I just saw in him on the first book. And the fork, was it big and strong enough? Just lace it with words from the ancient tongue...
The Witch is about the herbalist named Angela who is writing an autho biography. Don't want to expound because it is the story. ✌️✌️✌️
The Worm, this is quite the story. If you remove the first two parts it merits ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. Paolini brought me to a world that let me forget for awhile what's happening in the real world and let me dwelt in a world of adventure.
The Fork - ⭐⭐⭐
The Witch - ⭐⭐
The Worm - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Average - 3.33⭐
Want to read
October 16, 2018INHERITANCE SPIN-OFF WHAAAAAAAAAT!!!
WE ARE FINALLY GETTING MORE PAOLINI AND I STILL HAVEN'T READ THE LAST BOOK I'M THE WORST
NOTE TO CHRISTOPHER PAOLINI: Not happy with this cover man. It's not going to look nice on my shelf but I'll buy it anyway.😴🙋
WE ARE FINALLY GETTING MORE PAOLINI AND I STILL HAVEN'T READ THE LAST BOOK I'M THE WORST
NOTE TO CHRISTOPHER PAOLINI: Not happy with this cover man. It's not going to look nice on my shelf but I'll buy it anyway.😴🙋
Read
October 31, 2023No rating because I don't rate short story collections, but here's my thoughts on each:
Part 1:
THIS GOT ME SO FUCKING HYPED FOR MURTAGH’S BOOK. This was a perfect read leading into the new book because I desperately want more of this and we're about to get it!
Part 2:
ANGELA. WRITE THIS BOOK. Or maybe don’t because so much of the intrigue is in the not knowing but also I WANT TO KNOW. This was so much fun in just 25 pages and I now have about a dozen new theories and questions about this character.
Part 3:
A good story and I’m glad to get a look at Urgal culture, but far longer than it needed to be I think.
Part 1:
THIS GOT ME SO FUCKING HYPED FOR MURTAGH’S BOOK. This was a perfect read leading into the new book because I desperately want more of this and we're about to get it!
Part 2:
ANGELA. WRITE THIS BOOK. Or maybe don’t because so much of the intrigue is in the not knowing but also I WANT TO KNOW. This was so much fun in just 25 pages and I now have about a dozen new theories and questions about this character.
Part 3:
A good story and I’m glad to get a look at Urgal culture, but far longer than it needed to be I think.
Want to read
March 16, 2016Christopher Paolini. I did not even read this book when it came out I read it in 2011 and I've been waiting for 5 YEARS. IMAGINE THE POOR PEOPLE WHO'VE BEEN WAITING SINCE IT CANE OUT PLEASE WRITE FASTER I NEED THIS.
Read
December 26, 2019absolutely LOVED returning to the world of Alagaesia. forgot how much the inheritance cycle meant to me when i was younger and how much I considered the characters my friends. happy to see more stories with them and NEED MORE from the world of Eragon ASAP because i have SO MANY unanswered questions!!
November 24, 2023
This one was short but very good. I enjoyed the first two stories but I really LOVED the third one! Now onto Murtagh!
September 21, 2020
Tales from Alagaesia #1 was a trip down memory lane. Well known and beloved characters appeared, but this installment was not something that added much to the story of Eragon and the new empire that was enstablished after the final book of the tetralogy. However, it created some questions about what's next. Will there be another book? Hopefully yes.
As for this short stories from Alagaesia, of course a tetralogy like Eragon could not not have an extra under 200 pages! The first tale was pretty great, deeping the reader straight into the world of dragons and dragonriders. It also left some new mysteries unsolved, so I'm looking forward to the continuation of the series.
The second story was just okay, a bit more playful and mysterious, but nothing special. And, as for the third one, it was a bit boring, to be honest.
So, overall, I almost enjoyed this book, but it did make me want to re read the series. So, two out of five stars.
As for this short stories from Alagaesia, of course a tetralogy like Eragon could not not have an extra under 200 pages! The first tale was pretty great, deeping the reader straight into the world of dragons and dragonriders. It also left some new mysteries unsolved, so I'm looking forward to the continuation of the series.
The second story was just okay, a bit more playful and mysterious, but nothing special. And, as for the third one, it was a bit boring, to be honest.
So, overall, I almost enjoyed this book, but it did make me want to re read the series. So, two out of five stars.
February 4, 2019
"But there were still things in life he could not overcome – things that no one could. It was a sobering thought. When Eragon was younger, the knowledge would have bothered him. Now, though, he understood the wisdom of acceptance".
Cuando vi que Christopher Paolini anunciaba un nuevo libro en el mundo de Eragon casi me da un paro cardíaco. Creo que sus libros fueron los primeros de alta fantasía que leí y los que me enamoraron de las historias complejas, los dragones, las guerras, las diferentes razas, los sistemas de magia y los maravillosos idiomas inventados. Ahora, debo confesar que cuando supe queThe Fork, The Witch And The Wormiba a ser un libro de relatos tuve un poco de miedo. Siento que a los autores de fantasía épica no se les da muy bien escribir historias cortas, sobre todo cuando sus libros normalmente tienen más de 600 páginas. Y eso fue un poco lo que sucedió aquí.
Las tres historias que tiene este libro, si bien me parecieron interesantes y me gustó reencontrarme con personajes como Eragon, Saphira, Murtaugh, Angela y demás, no me llenaron por completo. De hecho, me habría gustado que se centraran mucho más en Eragon y Saphira y no en leyendas del pasado.
Creo que mi historia favorita fueThe Fork,pues una vez entendemos quién es realmente el protagonista del relato no podemos dejar de sonreír. Sí, es un personaje que u amas u odias, pero yo llegué a adorarlo en la saga principal, así que me gustó mucho leer sobre él. Además, esta historia nos permite ver qué fue de su vida después de que se acabó la guerra con Galbatorix y, sobre todo, nos deja entender que sigue teniendo muchos conflictos para encontrar un propósito claro ahora.
El siguiente relato,The Witch,es el que Christopher Paolini escribió con su hermana Angela, que es la inspiración real para el personaje homónimo de la saga. Este fue, quizá, el que más lento se me hizo, pues si bien Angela es un personaje interesantísimo en la saga, aquí sus diálogos y divagaciones me sonaron un poco a relleno. Ahora, sí que me encantó ver de nuevo a Solembum y a Elva, la chica a la que Eragon intentó bendecir, pero falló.
Y la última historia que tenemos aquí esThe Wormy, díganme loca, pero esperaba que fuera un relato sobre alguno de los dragones que conocemos... pero no. Esta historia surge porque quieren enseñarle a Eragon una lección: a veces, por mucho que luches, hay cosas que son realmente inevitables y no puedes sentirte mal por fallar, pues el destino estaba decidido desde el principio. Lo curioso de esta historia es que la protagonista es una Urgal, una mujer de una raza que odiamos en la saga principal, que jura vengarse de un dragón que destrozó su aldea y a su familia.
¿Qué fue lo que más me gustó de todo? ¡El final! Madre mía, el final es lo más espectacular de todo este libro de relatos. Christopher Paolini termina el libro en una nota tan esperanzadora y que valida todo el trabajo que han hecho Eragon y Saphira después de la guerra y lejos de Alagaësia. Ese final hace que el alejarse de todo lo que conocen, incluso de las personas que más aman, haya valido la pena. Ahora, Paolini, lo único que te pido yo en la vida es que sigas escribiendo y lo próximo que publiques tenga, como poco, 700 páginas.
Cuando vi que Christopher Paolini anunciaba un nuevo libro en el mundo de Eragon casi me da un paro cardíaco. Creo que sus libros fueron los primeros de alta fantasía que leí y los que me enamoraron de las historias complejas, los dragones, las guerras, las diferentes razas, los sistemas de magia y los maravillosos idiomas inventados. Ahora, debo confesar que cuando supe queThe Fork, The Witch And The Wormiba a ser un libro de relatos tuve un poco de miedo. Siento que a los autores de fantasía épica no se les da muy bien escribir historias cortas, sobre todo cuando sus libros normalmente tienen más de 600 páginas. Y eso fue un poco lo que sucedió aquí.
Las tres historias que tiene este libro, si bien me parecieron interesantes y me gustó reencontrarme con personajes como Eragon, Saphira, Murtaugh, Angela y demás, no me llenaron por completo. De hecho, me habría gustado que se centraran mucho más en Eragon y Saphira y no en leyendas del pasado.
Creo que mi historia favorita fueThe Fork,pues una vez entendemos quién es realmente el protagonista del relato no podemos dejar de sonreír. Sí, es un personaje que u amas u odias, pero yo llegué a adorarlo en la saga principal, así que me gustó mucho leer sobre él. Además, esta historia nos permite ver qué fue de su vida después de que se acabó la guerra con Galbatorix y, sobre todo, nos deja entender que sigue teniendo muchos conflictos para encontrar un propósito claro ahora.
El siguiente relato,The Witch,es el que Christopher Paolini escribió con su hermana Angela, que es la inspiración real para el personaje homónimo de la saga. Este fue, quizá, el que más lento se me hizo, pues si bien Angela es un personaje interesantísimo en la saga, aquí sus diálogos y divagaciones me sonaron un poco a relleno. Ahora, sí que me encantó ver de nuevo a Solembum y a Elva, la chica a la que Eragon intentó bendecir, pero falló.
Y la última historia que tenemos aquí esThe Wormy, díganme loca, pero esperaba que fuera un relato sobre alguno de los dragones que conocemos... pero no. Esta historia surge porque quieren enseñarle a Eragon una lección: a veces, por mucho que luches, hay cosas que son realmente inevitables y no puedes sentirte mal por fallar, pues el destino estaba decidido desde el principio. Lo curioso de esta historia es que la protagonista es una Urgal, una mujer de una raza que odiamos en la saga principal, que jura vengarse de un dragón que destrozó su aldea y a su familia.
¿Qué fue lo que más me gustó de todo? ¡El final! Madre mía, el final es lo más espectacular de todo este libro de relatos. Christopher Paolini termina el libro en una nota tan esperanzadora y que valida todo el trabajo que han hecho Eragon y Saphira después de la guerra y lejos de Alagaësia. Ese final hace que el alejarse de todo lo que conocen, incluso de las personas que más aman, haya valido la pena. Ahora, Paolini, lo único que te pido yo en la vida es que sigas escribiendo y lo próximo que publiques tenga, como poco, 700 páginas.
March 25, 2019
Once Upon a time back in 2006 when I was 15 and being in my sophomore year of High School, I had to take a reading test that was required for all Sophomores for the English classes and if we passed a certain grade level, then we didn't have to take this reading class that lasted one semester. Well, I got a 3rd grade reading level and I HAD to take this class and drop one other. I did used to love reading considering I was born in '91 so which means Junie B. Jones, Magic Treehouse (the originals), Adventures of Bailey's School Kids, Illustrated classics. And one time I just lost it all my years in Junior high school.
So what does Eragon have to do with all of this? Well, not only did this class have some program that Scholastic had, but after those of us in this class was done in the computer lab with this program, we had to have a book to read for the duration of the class and since I didn't like reading anymore at the time and lost the love of it, I NEEDED a book bad. So I asked some friends what book I should read and didn't care what it was. The majority said Eragon.
I wasn't a fan of dragons or anything but I knew it was something. So I think I was either borrowing it from a friend or using the school's library copy--I can't remember--I was bored for a while. Up until one moment I can't remember what it was, but it sparked something and from then I couldn't put it down. So here's the thing: I didn't like the whole dragons, high fantasy, made up language etc, BUT I LOVED this story, I loved the characters and I did love the world and the rest is history.
So for me, it was actually Eragon that really got me back into the love of reading and although I haven't read or gotten much into high fantasy, Eragon is my BIGGEST exception for my excitement because after all like I said, it got me back into reading. So with this book I actually meant to drag this out and wait a few days to finish because it was going so quickly and I didn't want to leave. So dragging it was actually the best thing I did. And I'm still sad it's over *crying internally* BUT BOOK 5 AAAAHHH!!!! *heart eyes* And if I could this book would be rated infinite stars if I could.
So my excitement to read these three short stories (now almost 28) or should I say set ups for an actual 5th book (*eek*) I LOVED them and I loved seeing familiar faces again. But most of all it felt good to be back "home" in Alagaesia with my favorite dragon rider and dragon. Oh and my favorite witch and herbalist Angela!:D
If you get a chance READ THESE BOOKS and if you have read them then put THE FORK, THE WITCH AND THE WORM on your list ASAP and read it ASAP!
So what does Eragon have to do with all of this? Well, not only did this class have some program that Scholastic had, but after those of us in this class was done in the computer lab with this program, we had to have a book to read for the duration of the class and since I didn't like reading anymore at the time and lost the love of it, I NEEDED a book bad. So I asked some friends what book I should read and didn't care what it was. The majority said Eragon.
I wasn't a fan of dragons or anything but I knew it was something. So I think I was either borrowing it from a friend or using the school's library copy--I can't remember--I was bored for a while. Up until one moment I can't remember what it was, but it sparked something and from then I couldn't put it down. So here's the thing: I didn't like the whole dragons, high fantasy, made up language etc, BUT I LOVED this story, I loved the characters and I did love the world and the rest is history.
So for me, it was actually Eragon that really got me back into the love of reading and although I haven't read or gotten much into high fantasy, Eragon is my BIGGEST exception for my excitement because after all like I said, it got me back into reading. So with this book I actually meant to drag this out and wait a few days to finish because it was going so quickly and I didn't want to leave. So dragging it was actually the best thing I did. And I'm still sad it's over *crying internally* BUT BOOK 5 AAAAHHH!!!! *heart eyes* And if I could this book would be rated infinite stars if I could.
So my excitement to read these three short stories (now almost 28) or should I say set ups for an actual 5th book (*eek*) I LOVED them and I loved seeing familiar faces again. But most of all it felt good to be back "home" in Alagaesia with my favorite dragon rider and dragon. Oh and my favorite witch and herbalist Angela!:D
If you get a chance READ THESE BOOKS and if you have read them then put THE FORK, THE WITCH AND THE WORM on your list ASAP and read it ASAP!
March 14, 2016
My all time favorite series! I'm so glad we are getting a 5th book because the ending to Inheritance killed me! I can't wait!
January 31, 2019
3.5 stars ✨🐉
“Às vezes sonhava em embainhar a sua espada, Brisingr, pegar em Saphira e pôr-se a caminho à procura de uma aventura. Não passava contudo disso mesmo: um sonho. Não podia deixar os dragões News os Cavaleiros entregues à sua sorte.”
*
“At times he dreamed of strapping on his sword, Brisingr, getting on Saphira, and setting out to see what adventure they could find. It was just that, though: a dream. They couldn’t leave the dragons or the Riders to fend for themselves.”
- Eragon
* * *
“Às vezes é preciso uma pessoa erguer-se e lutar. Às vezes fugir não é uma opção.”
*
“Sometimes, you have to stand and fight. Sometimes running away isn’t an option.”
- Murtagh
* * *
“As estrelas traçam os seus caminhos noturnos por cima da terra. Movem-se. É tão evidente; como poderia não ser verdade? Mas, muitas vezes, o evidente é uma ilusão.”
*
“The stars trace their nightly paths over the land. They move. It is so obvious; how could it not be true? But the obvious is often an illusion.”
- Angela of Many Names
* * *
“Ela Inspirou fundo o ar gelado e, ao exalar, libertou o seu tormento. Pronto. Uma coisa ficara clara: existiria sempre uma fonte à espreita e à espera de os devorar. Se não fosse Vêrmund, seriam os monstros. Se não fossem os monstros, uma outra criatura igualmente terrível. Era um facto básico da vida, tão verdadeiro para os Chifrudos como o era para qualquer outro ser. Ninguém estava livre disso: nem urso, nem lobo, nem felino, nem o mais intrépido dos caçadores. Com o tempo, todos se tornam presas. Não era uma questão de se, mas de quando.
Vêrmund salvara-os dos monstros.”
*
“She breathed deep of the freezing air and, with her exhale, released her torment. So. One thing had become clear: there would always be a stalking hunger waiting to eat them. If not Vêrmund, then the monstrosities. If not the monstrosities, then some other, equally horrible creature. It was a basic fact of life, as true for the Horned as it was for every other being. None were exempt: not bear nor wolf nor cat nor even the most fearsome of hunters. All fell prey in time. It was not a question of if but when.
Vêrmund had saved them from the monstrosities.”
- Ilgra Nrech-Slayer
“Às vezes sonhava em embainhar a sua espada, Brisingr, pegar em Saphira e pôr-se a caminho à procura de uma aventura. Não passava contudo disso mesmo: um sonho. Não podia deixar os dragões News os Cavaleiros entregues à sua sorte.”
*
“At times he dreamed of strapping on his sword, Brisingr, getting on Saphira, and setting out to see what adventure they could find. It was just that, though: a dream. They couldn’t leave the dragons or the Riders to fend for themselves.”
- Eragon
* * *
“Às vezes é preciso uma pessoa erguer-se e lutar. Às vezes fugir não é uma opção.”
*
“Sometimes, you have to stand and fight. Sometimes running away isn’t an option.”
- Murtagh
* * *
“As estrelas traçam os seus caminhos noturnos por cima da terra. Movem-se. É tão evidente; como poderia não ser verdade? Mas, muitas vezes, o evidente é uma ilusão.”
*
“The stars trace their nightly paths over the land. They move. It is so obvious; how could it not be true? But the obvious is often an illusion.”
- Angela of Many Names
* * *
“Ela Inspirou fundo o ar gelado e, ao exalar, libertou o seu tormento. Pronto. Uma coisa ficara clara: existiria sempre uma fonte à espreita e à espera de os devorar. Se não fosse Vêrmund, seriam os monstros. Se não fossem os monstros, uma outra criatura igualmente terrível. Era um facto básico da vida, tão verdadeiro para os Chifrudos como o era para qualquer outro ser. Ninguém estava livre disso: nem urso, nem lobo, nem felino, nem o mais intrépido dos caçadores. Com o tempo, todos se tornam presas. Não era uma questão de se, mas de quando.
Vêrmund salvara-os dos monstros.”
*
“She breathed deep of the freezing air and, with her exhale, released her torment. So. One thing had become clear: there would always be a stalking hunger waiting to eat them. If not Vêrmund, then the monstrosities. If not the monstrosities, then some other, equally horrible creature. It was a basic fact of life, as true for the Horned as it was for every other being. None were exempt: not bear nor wolf nor cat nor even the most fearsome of hunters. All fell prey in time. It was not a question of if but when.
Vêrmund had saved them from the monstrosities.”
- Ilgra Nrech-Slayer
January 9, 2019
So good to be back in Alagaësia! Didn’t realized how much I missed this universe until I delved into the pages.
There are three stories within, separate events but connected in between.The Forkis the lovely story of a little girl and how Tornachelped her, inThe Witchwe learn (or at least we think we do) some new things about Angela and Elva andThe Wormis the legend of brave Ilgra and her quest against Vêrmund, the dragon of terror, legend told by one of the Urgals.
The end brings a surprising news which I hope will be developed in a future tale.
I’m so glad that there is much to tell from Alagaësia and that our heroes continue their stories. Had this little book would have been tenfold bigger, I wouldn’t have complained at all.
There are three stories within, separate events but connected in between.The Forkis the lovely story of a little girl and how Tornachelped her, inThe Witchwe learn (or at least we think we do) some new things about Angela and Elva andThe Wormis the legend of brave Ilgra and her quest against Vêrmund, the dragon of terror, legend told by one of the Urgals.
The end brings a surprising news which I hope will be developed in a future tale.
I’m so glad that there is much to tell from Alagaësia and that our heroes continue their stories. Had this little book would have been tenfold bigger, I wouldn’t have complained at all.
December 26, 2020
This was a challenge by itself. The author is well versed in the world he created. He is no longer the young boy with big dreams that wants to write. He is now a grown author who wants to dream and write. He is well educated and technically correct in his cosmology and astrophysics science. His characters are real. But it take work and research to fully comprehend his mind and his world's. He writes on multiple levels, but it is best if you understand what is happening. Some thinks seem a bit confusing, but I think it was more me than him.
Although I would like more in the Inheritance series, I am find if something happens to start a new series. He can continue to do some short stories, too. But I am would really like to see is a good movie series that replaces or fixes the first movie that did more harm than good, and then expands on the rest of the books. There is still much to learn about life and responsibility that needs to be told by showing.
Although I would like more in the Inheritance series, I am find if something happens to start a new series. He can continue to do some short stories, too. But I am would really like to see is a good movie series that replaces or fixes the first movie that did more harm than good, and then expands on the rest of the books. There is still much to learn about life and responsibility that needs to be told by showing.
April 12, 2019
I was skeptical about this return to Alagaësia for about the first ten pages, but as it progressed my interest and admiration grew for Paolini's ability to write in very different voices. Each little tale within this book is enjoyably distinct, and I loved that.
Read
December 1, 2018I'm really struggling to give this book a rating. On the one hand I can't even describe what an emotional feeling it is to return to Alagaesia after all these years and be able to spend a few brief moments with the characters I've grown to love som much. To see how they are doing and find out about what they've been up to since after the end of Inheritance. On the other hand this being the first writing about Alagaesia since Inheritance came out years and years ago and the size and scope of the previous books I of course want to know EVERYTHING about EVERYONE - which this book sadly doesn't provide.
The Fork, the Witch and the Wormfeels more like a teaser than a proper book. We get to spend a few brief moments with some of the main characters from Inheritance although there's quite a few important ones that we don't get to see at all. Rather than giving lots of information and answers this book leaves you with questions and craving for more. Which I really hope will happen one day because the way it ended - there better be another one coming!
A big chunk of this book is actually centered around new characters: one human girl and one Urgal young warrior. I have to say I absolutely loved the Urgal legend which was beautiful, interesting and captivating.
I also savoured the precious moments between Eragon and Saphira and it was great to share in their special connection once again. And Murtagh <3
That said I really, really need a proper book 5 please - a LONG one where I get to read about ALL the characters and find out about EVERYTHING that has happened since after Inheritance. Pretty please
The Fork, the Witch and the Wormfeels more like a teaser than a proper book. We get to spend a few brief moments with some of the main characters from Inheritance although there's quite a few important ones that we don't get to see at all. Rather than giving lots of information and answers this book leaves you with questions and craving for more. Which I really hope will happen one day because the way it ended - there better be another one coming!
A big chunk of this book is actually centered around new characters: one human girl and one Urgal young warrior. I have to say I absolutely loved the Urgal legend which was beautiful, interesting and captivating.
I also savoured the precious moments between Eragon and Saphira and it was great to share in their special connection once again. And Murtagh <3
That said I really, really need a proper book 5 please - a LONG one where I get to read about ALL the characters and find out about EVERYTHING that has happened since after Inheritance. Pretty please
August 24, 2021
3.5 stars
Not really what i expected
Spoilery maybe
Things i wanted:
- murtagh and thorn (more)
- rider elva
- domestic eragon
- the new riders living in vroengard
- new riders just anyone honestly
- angela being badass
thoughts:
- the fork: amazing yes murtagh my love
- the witch: uh? i don't get it
- the worm: way too long, could have told the same story in 40 pages
I will be very honest when i say i like the post galbatorix new riders fanfic i wrote in 2015
Not really what i expected
Spoilery maybe
Things i wanted:
- murtagh and thorn (more)
- rider elva
- domestic eragon
- the new riders living in vroengard
- new riders just anyone honestly
- angela being badass
thoughts:
- the fork: amazing yes murtagh my love
- the witch: uh? i don't get it
- the worm: way too long, could have told the same story in 40 pages
I will be very honest when i say i like the post galbatorix new riders fanfic i wrote in 2015
Read
February 16, 2024I have decided to redact as many of my more uncharitable Goodreads reviews as I can find and to remove my starred ratings from those books which I may have treated unkindly.
January 3, 2019
This is exactly what happens when a book just transports you to a new world and completely takes over you. I finished this book in less then a day (yes it is shorter then 300 pages but I have also been crazy busy). Being back in this world was such a treat and a joy. Christopher Paolini can write everything in the world of Alagaesia and I will throw money at him!! I needed this like I needed air. Not only was this little collection perfect it was also a great foundation for what will be the true continuation of the Inheritance Cycle. Paolini laid down some vague yet interesting plot threads and I am here for it.
Was this a review or just an absolute gush, I don't care either way just know that this was everything my Eragon heart needed and I am waiting patiently for the next one!!
Was this a review or just an absolute gush, I don't care either way just know that this was everything my Eragon heart needed and I am waiting patiently for the next one!!
December 26, 2018
Hmmm. Interesting novella, of a sort. Good narrator, and I think he’s the same as the Eragon books. A voice from my childhood.
I will admit, I wasn’t paying the best attention, my mind drifted. Maybe because it’s been too long since I read the other books to really connect with the world, and especially for such a brief time? Interesting, but not great.
I will admit, I wasn’t paying the best attention, my mind drifted. Maybe because it’s been too long since I read the other books to really connect with the world, and especially for such a brief time? Interesting, but not great.
July 27, 2023
Wait... THERE'SANOTHERBOOK COMING?
EXCITING
EXCITING
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