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 Customer Reviews
Loved. It., 06 Oct 2008
Better than the first two put together (and bigger, too!)- it was a great break from my Uni studies and I wasn't disappointed! Paolini is certainly becoming a better writer as the series progresses; I think ending the trilogy here would have been a bit rushed- Brisingr allows Eragon to develop as a person and a Rider, and the result doesn't feel as if everything is being crammed in before the inevitable final conflict. Instead we have the continuing adventures of Eragon and Saphira as they mature and struggle to find Galbatorix's weakness (yes, he has one ^^)- there's enough revelations and action in this to satisfy any Inheritance Cycle fan.
And to those moaning about extensions for commercial reasons, etc... WE GET ANOTHER BOOK AFTER THIS!!! YAY!!!
Recommended 100% ;D
xoxo
A big dissapointment., 05 Oct 2008
After having thoroughly enjoyed the first two books, Eragon and Eldest, my expectations for the third were admittedly high. Even so, when I was reading Brisingr, the only thought that kept me reading on was that these rather lame side plots were building up to a "gripping" scene. To my dismay, this scene never came.
Paolini's influence from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is clearly noticeable, and this put me off the book. There is no doubt about it that the Paolini's creation of Alagaësia is very impressive, but it needs to be completely original, (gosh I sound so stuck up and pessimistic)!
In addition, some of the scenes were very long and I found myself losing concentration, and i'm not one for having a short concentration span. Despite the long scenes, it is not as detailed as I imagined it to be, and I believe that some stages of the book are completely unneccessary. Sorry, but parts of Brisngr have been poorly written.
To justify these perhaps hypercritical views, I came up with a thoery that, being 17, i was perhaps not young enough, and too critical to enjoy the book.
If this is the case, although i strongly doubt it, I am dissapointed that Paolini hasn't aimed Brisingr to the age group who were "the right age" when Eragon was released. But I will repeat again, "i strongly doubt it."
WELL... I think it is quite clear that I found Brisingr a big dissapointment, so I am surprised by my rating and my urge to buy the last book of the cycle. so I suppose Paolini's technique in dragging the 3rd book out has been to keep readers hopeful that the last one of the series will be worth the bore of the third.
enjoyable... but hardly original, 05 Oct 2008
Better than the previous books in the series, several strands of the previous books are rounded off (concerning the werecat's riddle) there are some decent battles, the pace of the book makes it easy to read and shifts of perspective add interest. I felt satisfied after reading it (good job I had no high expectations!)
However, several great flaws cannot be over-looked. Instead of a decent story it was more like a string of ideological debates and rather pathetic speeches on morality put togeather, forced onto a narrow plot. There is no room for this in fantasy- only the greatest of stories could make such garbage bearable. Unfortunatly that doesn't apply in this case.
Once again, we are forced to bear pale shadows of Tolkien's middle earth- namely Paolini's 'ancient language' and the rather pompous 'on the origin of names' section at the back. We are forced to endure his rip-off versions of evles and dwarfs- of which there are no characters of real depth.
I don't like the characters. I despise Nasuada, a chimpanzee could run an army better and add more wit to proceedings. She is cold hearted and completely lacks any likeable qualities. Eragon has no spine, he more or less lets everyone else make decisions for him and has no individuality whatsoever. He moans about killing people, if he felt that bad, then why battle at all? The Varden do not strike me as a force of good but as another power-hungry organisation after the crown. There is no real distinction between them and the mad-king. Saphira is the only redeemable character- but even then- lacks any depth.
Overall the lead character and plot failed a bit. And whilst on the whole enjoyable, this is nothing original (plenty of stuff filched from star wars). It will probably still recieve a good reception though, despite quality of writing, because of it's use of age-old 'hero' patterns. Hardly 'Lord of the Rings'.
Enjoyable, but a strange change of pace, 05 Oct 2008
Overall, I enjoyed reading Brisingr - it's a worthy follow-up to Eldest. The book does exactly what Paolini sets out to do in his afterword - explore the characters a bit more, explain things in more detail, set the stage for the final book without rushing things. However, after the steady pace of Eragon and Eldest, you can't help but feel that not much happens in Brisingr - you almost feel like he's moving all the chess pieces into place in readiness for the final book.
It's not an agonising Robert Jordan kind of slowness, and the plot does move along relatively nicely, but compared to the other two books, it's a weird change of pace. You get the feeling that if Paolini could write all of the books again, he could make it a bit more consistent and evenly paced. That said, his authorial skill has certainly increased tenfold since Eragon, which I found vaguely irritating and slightly amateurish in places - whereas Brisingr is polished and potentially slightly too self-impressed. However, cynicism aside, Eragon's adventures continue apace in Brisingr and there are plenty of nice twists and plenty of time for Roran's own adventures. It's the kind of book you'll really love once you've got all four - but it left me wanting more. I'd agree with the previous reviewers that the attempts at humour don't really work - the book didn't really make me laugh, and (according to the afterword) the reference to Dr Who is completely out of place - I'm a fan too, but it's just not appropriate and make Paolini look slightly juvenile, which is a shame, because his writing is clearly that of a skilled adult and his overall execution is really excellent.
It's a great book, and I'm really looking forward to the fourth one. I don't want to say I'm disappointed with the book, because I never felt that way - and it is a very compelling read (I finished it in less than a week) but there are some odd points to it, and it does feel a bit inconsistent at times. Overall, an excellent book, but with some strange touches.
Overall very good, 04 Oct 2008
Brisingr was a lot better than Eldest but I was disappointed with a few things. Although I like the fact that Brom is Eragon's father, it was thrown up quite suddenly and it's quite annoying that the climax in Eldest was when Eragon found out who his father was when he could have just found out Brom was his father anyway. Overall the book was very good and I really can't wait for the final book.
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Nation
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Customer Reviews
Loved. It., 06 Oct 2008
Better than the first two put together (and bigger, too!)- it was a great break from my Uni studies and I wasn't disappointed! Paolini is certainly becoming a better writer as the series progresses; I think ending the trilogy here would have been a bit rushed- Brisingr allows Eragon to develop as a person and a Rider, and the result doesn't feel as if everything is being crammed in before the inevitable final conflict. Instead we have the continuing adventures of Eragon and Saphira as they mature and struggle to find Galbatorix's weakness (yes, he has one ^^)- there's enough revelations and action in this to satisfy any Inheritance Cycle fan.
And to those moaning about extensions for commercial reasons, etc... WE GET ANOTHER BOOK AFTER THIS!!! YAY!!!
Recommended 100% ;D
xoxo
A big dissapointment., 05 Oct 2008
After having thoroughly enjoyed the first two books, Eragon and Eldest, my expectations for the third were admittedly high. Even so, when I was reading Brisingr, the only thought that kept me reading on was that these rather lame side plots were building up to a "gripping" scene. To my dismay, this scene never came.
Paolini's influence from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is clearly noticeable, and this put me off the book. There is no doubt about it that the Paolini's creation of Alagaësia is very impressive, but it needs to be completely original, (gosh I sound so stuck up and pessimistic)!
In addition, some of the scenes were very long and I found myself losing concentration, and i'm not one for having a short concentration span. Despite the long scenes, it is not as detailed as I imagined it to be, and I believe that some stages of the book are completely unneccessary. Sorry, but parts of Brisngr have been poorly written.
To justify these perhaps hypercritical views, I came up with a thoery that, being 17, i was perhaps not young enough, and too critical to enjoy the book.
If this is the case, although i strongly doubt it, I am dissapointed that Paolini hasn't aimed Brisingr to the age group who were "the right age" when Eragon was released. But I will repeat again, "i strongly doubt it."
WELL... I think it is quite clear that I found Brisingr a big dissapointment, so I am surprised by my rating and my urge to buy the last book of the cycle. so I suppose Paolini's technique in dragging the 3rd book out has been to keep readers hopeful that the last one of the series will be worth the bore of the third.
enjoyable... but hardly original, 05 Oct 2008
Better than the previous books in the series, several strands of the previous books are rounded off (concerning the werecat's riddle) there are some decent battles, the pace of the book makes it easy to read and shifts of perspective add interest. I felt satisfied after reading it (good job I had no high expectations!)
However, several great flaws cannot be over-looked. Instead of a decent story it was more like a string of ideological debates and rather pathetic speeches on morality put togeather, forced onto a narrow plot. There is no room for this in fantasy- only the greatest of stories could make such garbage bearable. Unfortunatly that doesn't apply in this case.
Once again, we are forced to bear pale shadows of Tolkien's middle earth- namely Paolini's 'ancient language' and the rather pompous 'on the origin of names' section at the back. We are forced to endure his rip-off versions of evles and dwarfs- of which there are no characters of real depth.
I don't like the characters. I despise Nasuada, a chimpanzee could run an army better and add more wit to proceedings. She is cold hearted and completely lacks any likeable qualities. Eragon has no spine, he more or less lets everyone else make decisions for him and has no individuality whatsoever. He moans about killing people, if he felt that bad, then why battle at all? The Varden do not strike me as a force of good but as another power-hungry organisation after the crown. There is no real distinction between them and the mad-king. Saphira is the only redeemable character- but even then- lacks any depth.
Overall the lead character and plot failed a bit. And whilst on the whole enjoyable, this is nothing original (plenty of stuff filched from star wars). It will probably still recieve a good reception though, despite quality of writing, because of it's use of age-old 'hero' patterns. Hardly 'Lord of the Rings'.
Enjoyable, but a strange change of pace, 05 Oct 2008
Overall, I enjoyed reading Brisingr - it's a worthy follow-up to Eldest. The book does exactly what Paolini sets out to do in his afterword - explore the characters a bit more, explain things in more detail, set the stage for the final book without rushing things. However, after the steady pace of Eragon and Eldest, you can't help but feel that not much happens in Brisingr - you almost feel like he's moving all the chess pieces into place in readiness for the final book.
It's not an agonising Robert Jordan kind of slowness, and the plot does move along relatively nicely, but compared to the other two books, it's a weird change of pace. You get the feeling that if Paolini could write all of the books again, he could make it a bit more consistent and evenly paced. That said, his authorial skill has certainly increased tenfold since Eragon, which I found vaguely irritating and slightly amateurish in places - whereas Brisingr is polished and potentially slightly too self-impressed. However, cynicism aside, Eragon's adventures continue apace in Brisingr and there are plenty of nice twists and plenty of time for Roran's own adventures. It's the kind of book you'll really love once you've got all four - but it left me wanting more. I'd agree with the previous reviewers that the attempts at humour don't really work - the book didn't really make me laugh, and (according to the afterword) the reference to Dr Who is completely out of place - I'm a fan too, but it's just not appropriate and make Paolini look slightly juvenile, which is a shame, because his writing is clearly that of a skilled adult and his overall execution is really excellent.
It's a great book, and I'm really looking forward to the fourth one. I don't want to say I'm disappointed with the book, because I never felt that way - and it is a very compelling read (I finished it in less than a week) but there are some odd points to it, and it does feel a bit inconsistent at times. Overall, an excellent book, but with some strange touches.
Overall very good, 04 Oct 2008
Brisingr was a lot better than Eldest but I was disappointed with a few things. Although I like the fact that Brom is Eragon's father, it was thrown up quite suddenly and it's quite annoying that the climax in Eldest was when Eragon found out who his father was when he could have just found out Brom was his father anyway. Overall the book was very good and I really can't wait for the final book.
A Large Diamond Among Gems, 05 Oct 2008
More than 20 years ago now, a good friend pressed a copy of "The Colour of Magic" into my hands that launched a love affair with Terry's books that lasts to this day. Like most frustrated authors who lack the talent to deliver themselves, I read a lot, and I think I have read pretty much all that Terry has written since 198whatever, and yes some of it is quite a lot better than some other bits, but his work has never once been a disappointment.
So I was delighted to see Nation appear on the shelf last week and have just used a rainy Sunday morning to finish it.
A quick summation, of the important points; this is not a Disc World novel, it is a book aimed at anyone over about 9 who can read. It deals with the not inconsequential questions of being us, whoever or wherever that may be, and it does it by telling a good story. It is in fact, very good indeed.
I think this is a book Terry has wanted to write for a while, it has a highly polished feel to it, and I have to say represents a stand out piece of work even for his well known if remarkable talent to make us laugh and ponder for a while.
This should be essential reading for all youngsters who might go on to rule a nation, guard a border, expand our knowledge of the universe, join the priesthood or just decide to go fishing.
It certainly will be in my house.
Thanks (again) Terry
Trev Harvey
Not as good as I had hoped, 04 Oct 2008
I had high hopes for this book, possibly too high. Despite the majority of readers giving this rave reviews I'm afraid I'll have to stick with the opinions of the few nay-sayers. I really couldn't get into this book as much as I had hoped - it meanders along at a fairly gentle pace and has a very different 'feel' to Pratchett's other works, but it rarely engaged my emotions or imagination and I didn't feel like I could 'connect' to any of the characters. There are good moments of course, but it really does feel like it's lacking something.
Maybe I'll enjoy it more when (if) I ever re-read it. You can't please all the people all the time. I generally love Pratchett's books and thoroughly look forward to the next one.
Wonderful - and this is a kids book???, 04 Oct 2008
What a fantastic book, I had already read the pre-amble when I ordered the book so I wasn't expecting a discworld novel. This is fabulous though and in it's own way as good as or better than the discworld books. Rather than ride just the frothy waves of humour, this book often dives below the surf into the deeper darker world of real emotions.
The storytelling is magical and I could easily have read this in one sitting but instead I made it last 4 days :)The characters were fantastic and you really get to know and care about Mau and Daphne.
This book will sit on my bookshelf forever and every so often I will take it down and go and vist Mau and Daphne again.
I cannot reccomend it enough, just don't ruin it for yourself by expecting a discworld novel - it's better even that that in it's own way :)
A Classic in the truest sense, 02 Oct 2008
I want to add my review here of Nation but it's actually an extraordinarily difficult thing to do. The reason is that I don't want to appear to be `gushing' with praise for it. If ever I read such a review, it normally has the effect of turning me off the book completely, as it's obviously written by a fan who hasn't read a different author or genre since they left primary school. In view of this, here's what I genuinely thought of it:
I finished the book last night and my immediate thought was `Oh my gosh, this is a classic'. This is a book that will be discussed, debated and written about for years to come. It's a bit like being around when a new Dickens or Jane Austin novel came out.
The plot has been mentioned here already, so I won't repeat it again. I see that some reviewers have said that Nation is pitched at older children in their teens, but don't be fooled. This book has so much depth and can be read at so many levels, there's enough here to keep 10 year old Harry Potter fans to Academic Philosophers happy. The writing style is as clear and sparkling as cut crystal and while reading it, Pratchatt takes your conscious mind out of this world and into his. You become each character, looking through their eyes, thinking their thoughts and feeling their every emotion. It is a fully immersive experience. The book also engages the brain by making you think about how societies and belief systems are created and our place in them. It is also a book to make you think about what makes you, you. If ever there was a book that could provide software upgrade for your brain, this is it.
Terry, I'll probably never meet you in person, but thank you for such a special gift.
One of those feel-good experiences, 01 Oct 2008
Every so often you come across a book that just makes you feel good. The first time I read "The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency" was like that, and even though I've been reading Terry Pratchett's books for many years now, this book was another of those experiences.
That's not to say that this is all warm, fuzzy stuff. Indeed, there's death aplenty (and since this isn't a Discworld book, no DEATH) but the way that Pratchett handles all the less palatable aspects of life and death still gives you a good feeling. (I read somewhere recently that he'd had an experience where he suddenly felt that all was right with the world and there was no reason to worry - not something he would describe as a religious experience, but similar in some ways. I wonder whether that was before, after or while he was writing this book, because a lot of it seems to seep through).
Highly recommended both for people who are already Pratchett fans, but also for those who have never read him or avoided him - stop being snobby because he's a popular author and find out WHY. This is a fine piece of work.
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Customer Reviews
Loved. It., 06 Oct 2008
Better than the first two put together (and bigger, too!)- it was a great break from my Uni studies and I wasn't disappointed! Paolini is certainly becoming a better writer as the series progresses; I think ending the trilogy here would have been a bit rushed- Brisingr allows Eragon to develop as a person and a Rider, and the result doesn't feel as if everything is being crammed in before the inevitable final conflict. Instead we have the continuing adventures of Eragon and Saphira as they mature and struggle to find Galbatorix's weakness (yes, he has one ^^)- there's enough revelations and action in this to satisfy any Inheritance Cycle fan.
And to those moaning about extensions for commercial reasons, etc... WE GET ANOTHER BOOK AFTER THIS!!! YAY!!!
Recommended 100% ;D
xoxo
A big dissapointment., 05 Oct 2008
After having thoroughly enjoyed the first two books, Eragon and Eldest, my expectations for the third were admittedly high. Even so, when I was reading Brisingr, the only thought that kept me reading on was that these rather lame side plots were building up to a "gripping" scene. To my dismay, this scene never came.
Paolini's influence from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is clearly noticeable, and this put me off the book. There is no doubt about it that the Paolini's creation of Alagaësia is very impressive, but it needs to be completely original, (gosh I sound so stuck up and pessimistic)!
In addition, some of the scenes were very long and I found myself losing concentration, and i'm not one for having a short concentration span. Despite the long scenes, it is not as detailed as I imagined it to be, and I believe that some stages of the book are completely unneccessary. Sorry, but parts of Brisngr have been poorly written.
To justify these perhaps hypercritical views, I came up with a thoery that, being 17, i was perhaps not young enough, and too critical to enjoy the book.
If this is the case, although i strongly doubt it, I am dissapointed that Paolini hasn't aimed Brisingr to the age group who were "the right age" when Eragon was released. But I will repeat again, "i strongly doubt it."
WELL... I think it is quite clear that I found Brisingr a big dissapointment, so I am surprised by my rating and my urge to buy the last book of the cycle. so I suppose Paolini's technique in dragging the 3rd book out has been to keep readers hopeful that the last one of the series will be worth the bore of the third.
enjoyable... but hardly original, 05 Oct 2008
Better than the previous books in the series, several strands of the previous books are rounded off (concerning the werecat's riddle) there are some decent battles, the pace of the book makes it easy to read and shifts of perspective add interest. I felt satisfied after reading it (good job I had no high expectations!)
However, several great flaws cannot be over-looked. Instead of a decent story it was more like a string of ideological debates and rather pathetic speeches on morality put togeather, forced onto a narrow plot. There is no room for this in fantasy- only the greatest of stories could make such garbage bearable. Unfortunatly that doesn't apply in this case.
Once again, we are forced to bear pale shadows of Tolkien's middle earth- namely Paolini's 'ancient language' and the rather pompous 'on the origin of names' section at the back. We are forced to endure his rip-off versions of evles and dwarfs- of which there are no characters of real depth.
I don't like the characters. I despise Nasuada, a chimpanzee could run an army better and add more wit to proceedings. She is cold hearted and completely lacks any likeable qualities. Eragon has no spine, he more or less lets everyone else make decisions for him and has no individuality whatsoever. He moans about killing people, if he felt that bad, then why battle at all? The Varden do not strike me as a force of good but as another power-hungry organisation after the crown. There is no real distinction between them and the mad-king. Saphira is the only redeemable character- but even then- lacks any depth.
Overall the lead character and plot failed a bit. And whilst on the whole enjoyable, this is nothing original (plenty of stuff filched from star wars). It will probably still recieve a good reception though, despite quality of writing, because of it's use of age-old 'hero' patterns. Hardly 'Lord of the Rings'.
Enjoyable, but a strange change of pace, 05 Oct 2008
Overall, I enjoyed reading Brisingr - it's a worthy follow-up to Eldest. The book does exactly what Paolini sets out to do in his afterword - explore the characters a bit more, explain things in more detail, set the stage for the final book without rushing things. However, after the steady pace of Eragon and Eldest, you can't help but feel that not much happens in Brisingr - you almost feel like he's moving all the chess pieces into place in readiness for the final book.
It's not an agonising Robert Jordan kind of slowness, and the plot does move along relatively nicely, but compared to the other two books, it's a weird change of pace. You get the feeling that if Paolini could write all of the books again, he could make it a bit more consistent and evenly paced. That said, his authorial skill has certainly increased tenfold since Eragon, which I found vaguely irritating and slightly amateurish in places - whereas Brisingr is polished and potentially slightly too self-impressed. However, cynicism aside, Eragon's adventures continue apace in Brisingr and there are plenty of nice twists and plenty of time for Roran's own adventures. It's the kind of book you'll really love once you've got all four - but it left me wanting more. I'd agree with the previous reviewers that the attempts at humour don't really work - the book didn't really make me laugh, and (according to the afterword) the reference to Dr Who is completely out of place - I'm a fan too, but it's just not appropriate and make Paolini look slightly juvenile, which is a shame, because his writing is clearly that of a skilled adult and his overall execution is really excellent.
It's a great book, and I'm really looking forward to the fourth one. I don't want to say I'm disappointed with the book, because I never felt that way - and it is a very compelling read (I finished it in less than a week) but there are some odd points to it, and it does feel a bit inconsistent at times. Overall, an excellent book, but with some strange touches.
Overall very good, 04 Oct 2008
Brisingr was a lot better than Eldest but I was disappointed with a few things. Although I like the fact that Brom is Eragon's father, it was thrown up quite suddenly and it's quite annoying that the climax in Eldest was when Eragon found out who his father was when he could have just found out Brom was his father anyway. Overall the book was very good and I really can't wait for the final book.
A Large Diamond Among Gems, 05 Oct 2008
More than 20 years ago now, a good friend pressed a copy of "The Colour of Magic" into my hands that launched a love affair with Terry's books that lasts to this day. Like most frustrated authors who lack the talent to deliver themselves, I read a lot, and I think I have read pretty much all that Terry has written since 198whatever, and yes some of it is quite a lot better than some other bits, but his work has never once been a disappointment.
So I was delighted to see Nation appear on the shelf last week and have just used a rainy Sunday morning to finish it.
A quick summation, of the important points; this is not a Disc World novel, it is a book aimed at anyone over about 9 who can read. It deals with the not inconsequential questions of being us, whoever or wherever that may be, and it does it by telling a good story. It is in fact, very good indeed.
I think this is a book Terry has wanted to write for a while, it has a highly polished feel to it, and I have to say represents a stand out piece of work even for his well known if remarkable talent to make us laugh and ponder for a while.
This should be essential reading for all youngsters who might go on to rule a nation, guard a border, expand our knowledge of the universe, join the priesthood or just decide to go fishing.
It certainly will be in my house.
Thanks (again) Terry
Trev Harvey
Not as good as I had hoped, 04 Oct 2008
I had high hopes for this book, possibly too high. Despite the majority of readers giving this rave reviews I'm afraid I'll have to stick with the opinions of the few nay-sayers. I really couldn't get into this book as much as I had hoped - it meanders along at a fairly gentle pace and has a very different 'feel' to Pratchett's other works, but it rarely engaged my emotions or imagination and I didn't feel like I could 'connect' to any of the characters. There are good moments of course, but it really does feel like it's lacking something.
Maybe I'll enjoy it more when (if) I ever re-read it. You can't please all the people all the time. I generally love Pratchett's books and thoroughly look forward to the next one.
Wonderful - and this is a kids book???, 04 Oct 2008
What a fantastic book, I had already read the pre-amble when I ordered the book so I wasn't expecting a discworld novel. This is fabulous though and in it's own way as good as or better than the discworld books. Rather than ride just the frothy waves of humour, this book often dives below the surf into the deeper darker world of real emotions.
The storytelling is magical and I could easily have read this in one sitting but instead I made it last 4 days :)The characters were fantastic and you really get to know and care about Mau and Daphne.
This book will sit on my bookshelf forever and every so often I will take it down and go and vist Mau and Daphne again.
I cannot reccomend it enough, just don't ruin it for yourself by expecting a discworld novel - it's better even that that in it's own way :)
A Classic in the truest sense, 02 Oct 2008
I want to add my review here of Nation but it's actually an extraordinarily difficult thing to do. The reason is that I don't want to appear to be `gushing' with praise for it. If ever I read such a review, it normally has the effect of turning me off the book completely, as it's obviously written by a fan who hasn't read a different author or genre since they left primary school. In view of this, here's what I genuinely thought of it:
I finished the book last night and my immediate thought was `Oh my gosh, this is a classic'. This is a book that will be discussed, debated and written about for years to come. It's a bit like being around when a new Dickens or Jane Austin novel came out.
The plot has been mentioned here already, so I won't repeat it again. I see that some reviewers have said that Nation is pitched at older children in their teens, but don't be fooled. This book has so much depth and can be read at so many levels, there's enough here to keep 10 year old Harry Potter fans to Academic Philosophers happy. The writing style is as clear and sparkling as cut crystal and while reading it, Pratchatt takes your conscious mind out of this world and into his. You become each character, looking through their eyes, thinking their thoughts and feeling their every emotion. It is a fully immersive experience. The book also engages the brain by making you think about how societies and belief systems are created and our place in them. It is also a book to make you think about what makes you, you. If ever there was a book that could provide software upgrade for your brain, this is it.
Terry, I'll probably never meet you in person, but thank you for such a special gift.
One of those feel-good experiences, 01 Oct 2008
Every so often you come across a book that just makes you feel good. The first time I read "The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency" was like that, and even though I've been reading Terry Pratchett's books for many years now, this book was another of those experiences.
That's not to say that this is all warm, fuzzy stuff. Indeed, there's death aplenty (and since this isn't a Discworld book, no DEATH) but the way that Pratchett handles all the less palatable aspects of life and death still gives you a good feeling. (I read somewhere recently that he'd had an experience where he suddenly felt that all was right with the world and there was no reason to worry - not something he would describe as a religious experience, but similar in some ways. I wonder whether that was before, after or while he was writing this book, because a lot of it seems to seep through).
Highly recommended both for people who are already Pratchett fans, but also for those who have never read him or avoided him - stop being snobby because he's a popular author and find out WHY. This is a fine piece of work.
Really cute...., 07 Oct 2008
Frankly, I dont know what you haters are going on about. For me I think I have to say book 4 was The Climax for me. A beautiful happy ending book. Honestly didnt want to put it down and didn't want it to end!!
Loved the way we had a little bit of prespective from Jacob's point, that was cool, wish Meyer could have done the same for Edward as well...
All in all a lovely end to the Bella, Edward and Jacob saga. I would definitely recommend it to anyone.
I don't understand what the big problem is - I loved it!, 06 Oct 2008
Although my favourite book in the series is probably Eclipse, I still really enjoyed Breaking Dawn and thought it came to a conclusion that the majority of readers will be satisfied with. I think there would have been more uproar if it had gone any other way!
I was completely engrossed and didn't put the book down till it was finished. I really don't see how it could have gone any other way - unless fans wanted to see 90% of the characters they love be destroyed in a blood thirsty ending that really doesn't fit with the tone of the rest of the books!
Was it worth waiting for?, 04 Oct 2008
The answer is definitely yes! Be warned, once you start reading it you'll want to keep going until the end and then you'll wish you read it more slowly.
FANTASTIC, 03 Oct 2008
I LOVED IT. I cant really undertsand why people are so disappointed in Breaking Dawn I thought it was a fantastic end to the series even if I am a lil bit upset that it had to end. Having only discoverd the series recently and read them all withing a matter of days i loved loved loved it and am so excited about the upcoming film version of Twilight. I would totally reccomend the Twilight Saga for all.
Book written for cash instead of fans!! No spoilers. , 03 Oct 2008
How do you know that the time has come to stop writing sequels? Well.. when you publisher offers you thousands of dollars for it and you have noooo idea what you going to write about. This is the case with this book.
I thought the first book was absolutely the best. Second okeyish. Third good. Breaking Dawn doesnt fit into any of those descriptions. For me it was simply awful. The plot was so weak that i couldnt bare to read it all and skiped pages just trying to find a part that i would actualy want to read.
In terms of characters its all gone down hill. Bella turned into some kind of superbeing. Edward is a former shade of himself (for absolutely no reason), Jacob is simply irritating. The rest of cast are not even worth mentioning. The ending is absolutely pathetic. I think i could have written a better one.
I look forward to the film which should be in the UK around january 2009. But i hope they will never turn the 4th book into a film.
My recomendation: you should read it so you know how the story ends. But dont expect to be wowed. I read my copy and then sold it the next day. Yep, that's how much i "loved" the book.
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Customer Reviews
Loved. It., 06 Oct 2008
Better than the first two put together (and bigger, too!)- it was a great break from my Uni studies and I wasn't disappointed! Paolini is certainly becoming a better writer as the series progresses; I think ending the trilogy here would have been a bit rushed- Brisingr allows Eragon to develop as a person and a Rider, and the result doesn't feel as if everything is being crammed in before the inevitable final conflict. Instead we have the continuing adventures of Eragon and Saphira as they mature and struggle to find Galbatorix's weakness (yes, he has one ^^)- there's enough revelations and action in this to satisfy any Inheritance Cycle fan.
And to those moaning about extensions for commercial reasons, etc... WE GET ANOTHER BOOK AFTER THIS!!! YAY!!!
Recommended 100% ;D
xoxo
A big dissapointment., 05 Oct 2008
After having thoroughly enjoyed the first two books, Eragon and Eldest, my expectations for the third were admittedly high. Even so, when I was reading Brisingr, the only thought that kept me reading on was that these rather lame side plots were building up to a "gripping" scene. To my dismay, this scene never came.
Paolini's influence from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is clearly noticeable, and this put me off the book. There is no doubt about it that the Paolini's creation of Alagaësia is very impressive, but it needs to be completely original, (gosh I sound so stuck up and pessimistic)!
In addition, some of the scenes were very long and I found myself losing concentration, and i'm not one for having a short concentration span. Despite the long scenes, it is not as detailed as I imagined it to be, and I believe that some stages of the book are completely unneccessary. Sorry, but parts of Brisngr have been poorly written.
To justify these perhaps hypercritical views, I came up with a thoery that, being 17, i was perhaps not young enough, and too critical to enjoy the book.
If this is the case, although i strongly doubt it, I am dissapointed that Paolini hasn't aimed Brisingr to the age group who were "the right age" when Eragon was released. But I will repeat again, "i strongly doubt it."
WELL... I think it is quite clear that I found Brisingr a big dissapointment, so I am surprised by my rating and my urge to buy the last book of the cycle. so I suppose Paolini's technique in dragging the 3rd book out has been to keep readers hopeful that the last one of the series will be worth the bore of the third.
enjoyable... but hardly original, 05 Oct 2008
Better than the previous books in the series, several strands of the previous books are rounded off (concerning the werecat's riddle) there are some decent battles, the pace of the book makes it easy to read and shifts of perspective add interest. I felt satisfied after reading it (good job I had no high expectations!)
However, several great flaws cannot be over-looked. Instead of a decent story it was more like a string of ideological debates and rather pathetic speeches on morality put togeather, forced onto a narrow plot. There is no room for this in fantasy- only the greatest of stories could make such garbage bearable. Unfortunatly that doesn't apply in this case.
Once again, we are forced to bear pale shadows of Tolkien's middle earth- namely Paolini's 'ancient language' and the rather pompous 'on the origin of names' section at the back. We are forced to endure his rip-off versions of evles and dwarfs- of which there are no characters of real depth.
I don't like the characters. I despise Nasuada, a chimpanzee could run an army better and add more wit to proceedings. She is cold hearted and completely lacks any likeable qualities. Eragon has no spine, he more or less lets everyone else make decisions for him and has no individuality whatsoever. He moans about killing people, if he felt that bad, then why battle at all? The Varden do not strike me as a force of good but as another power-hungry organisation after the crown. There is no real distinction between them and the mad-king. Saphira is the only redeemable character- but even then- lacks any depth.
Overall the lead character and plot failed a bit. And whilst on the whole enjoyable, this is nothing original (plenty of stuff filched from star wars). It will probably still recieve a good reception though, despite quality of writing, because of it's use of age-old 'hero' patterns. Hardly 'Lord of the Rings'.
Enjoyable, but a strange change of pace, 05 Oct 2008
Overall, I enjoyed reading Brisingr - it's a worthy follow-up to Eldest. The book does exactly what Paolini sets out to do in his afterword - explore the characters a bit more, explain things in more detail, set the stage for the final book without rushing things. However, after the steady pace of Eragon and Eldest, you can't help but feel that not much happens in Brisingr - you almost feel like he's moving all the chess pieces into place in readiness for the final book.
It's not an agonising Robert Jordan kind of slowness, and the plot does move along relatively nicely, but compared to the other two books, it's a weird change of pace. You get the feeling that if Paolini could write all of the books again, he could make it a bit more consistent and evenly paced. That said, his authorial skill has certainly increased tenfold since Eragon, which I found vaguely irritating and slightly amateurish in places - whereas Brisingr is polished and potentially slightly too self-impressed. However, cynicism aside, Eragon's adventures continue apace in Brisingr and there are plenty of nice twists and plenty of time for Roran's own adventures. It's the kind of book you'll really love once you've got all four - but it left me wanting more. I'd agree with the previous reviewers that the attempts at humour don't really work - the book didn't really make me laugh, and (according to the afterword) the reference to Dr Who is completely out of place - I'm a fan too, but it's just not appropriate and make Paolini look slightly juvenile, which is a shame, because his writing is clearly that of a skilled adult and his overall execution is really excellent.
It's a great book, and I'm really looking forward to the fourth one. I don't want to say I'm disappointed with the book, because I never felt that way - and it is a very compelling read (I finished it in less than a week) but there are some odd points to it, and it does feel a bit inconsistent at times. Overall, an excellent book, but with some strange touches.
Overall very good, 04 Oct 2008
Brisingr was a lot better than Eldest but I was disappointed with a few things. Although I like the fact that Brom is Eragon's father, it was thrown up quite suddenly and it's quite annoying that the climax in Eldest was when Eragon found out who his father was when he could have just found out Brom was his father anyway. Overall the book was very good and I really can't wait for the final book.
A Large Diamond Among Gems, 05 Oct 2008
More than 20 years ago now, a good friend pressed a copy of "The Colour of Magic" into my hands that launched a love affair with Terry's books that lasts to this day. Like most frustrated authors who lack the talent to deliver themselves, I read a lot, and I think I have read pretty much all that Terry has written since 198whatever, and yes some of it is quite a lot better than some other bits, but his work has never once been a disappointment.
So I was delighted to see Nation appear on the shelf last week and have just used a rainy Sunday morning to finish it.
A quick summation, of the important points; this is not a Disc World novel, it is a book aimed at anyone over about 9 who can read. It deals with the not inconsequential questions of being us, whoever or wherever that may be, and it does it by telling a good story. It is in fact, very good indeed.
I think this is a book Terry has wanted to write for a while, it has a highly polished feel to it, and I have to say represents a stand out piece of work even for his well known if remarkable talent to make us laugh and ponder for a while.
This should be essential reading for all youngsters who might go on to rule a nation, guard a border, expand our knowledge of the universe, join the priesthood or just decide to go fishing.
It certainly will be in my house.
Thanks (again) Terry
Trev Harvey
Not as good as I had hoped, 04 Oct 2008
I had high hopes for this book, possibly too high. Despite the majority of readers giving this rave reviews I'm afraid I'll have to stick with the opinions of the few nay-sayers. I really couldn't get into this book as much as I had hoped - it meanders along at a fairly gentle pace and has a very different 'feel' to Pratchett's other works, but it rarely engaged my emotions or imagination and I didn't feel like I could 'connect' to any of the characters. There are good moments of course, but it really does feel like it's lacking something.
Maybe I'll enjoy it more when (if) I ever re-read it. You can't please all the people all the time. I generally love Pratchett's books and thoroughly look forward to the next one.
Wonderful - and this is a kids book???, 04 Oct 2008
What a fantastic book, I had already read the pre-amble when I ordered the book so I wasn't expecting a discworld novel. This is fabulous though and in it's own way as good as or better than the discworld books. Rather than ride just the frothy waves of humour, this book often dives below the surf into the deeper darker world of real emotions.
The storytelling is magical and I could easily have read this in one sitting but instead I made it last 4 days :)The characters were fantastic and you really get to know and care about Mau and Daphne.
This book will sit on my bookshelf forever and every so often I will take it down and go and vist Mau and Daphne again.
I cannot reccomend it enough, just don't ruin it for yourself by expecting a discworld novel - it's better even that that in it's own way :)
A Classic in the truest sense, 02 Oct 2008
I want to add my review here of Nation but it's actually an extraordinarily difficult thing to do. The reason is that I don't want to appear to be `gushing' with praise for it. If ever I read such a review, it normally has the effect of turning me off the book completely, as it's obviously written by a fan who hasn't read a different author or genre since they left primary school. In view of this, here's what I genuinely thought of it:
I finished the book last night and my immediate thought was `Oh my gosh, this is a classic'. This is a book that will be discussed, debated and written about for years to come. It's a bit like being around when a new Dickens or Jane Austin novel came out.
The plot has been mentioned here already, so I won't repeat it again. I see that some reviewers have said that Nation is pitched at older children in their teens, but don't be fooled. This book has so much depth and can be read at so many levels, there's enough here to keep 10 year old Harry Potter fans to Academic Philosophers happy. The writing style is as clear and sparkling as cut crystal and while reading it, Pratchatt takes your conscious mind out of this world and into his. You become each character, looking through their eyes, thinking their thoughts and feeling their every emotion. It is a fully immersive experience. The book also engages the brain by making you think about how societies and belief systems are created and our place in them. It is also a book to make you think about what makes you, you. If ever there was a book that could provide software upgrade for your brain, this is it.
Terry, I'll probably never meet you in person, but thank you for such a special gift.
One of those feel-good experiences, 01 Oct 2008
Every so often you come across a book that just makes you feel good. The first time I read "The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency" was like that, and even though I've been reading Terry Pratchett's books for many years now, this book was another of those experiences.
That's not to say that this is all warm, fuzzy stuff. Indeed, there's death aplenty (and since this isn't a Discworld book, no DEATH) but the way that Pratchett handles all the less palatable aspects of life and death still gives you a good feeling. (I read somewhere recently that he'd had an experience where he suddenly felt that all was right with the world and there was no reason to worry - not something he would describe as a religious experience, but similar in some ways. I wonder whether that was before, after or while he was writing this book, because a lot of it seems to seep through).
Highly recommended both for people who are already Pratchett fans, but also for those who have never read him or avoided him - stop being snobby because he's a popular author and find out WHY. This is a fine piece of work.
Really cute...., 07 Oct 2008
Frankly, I dont know what you haters are going on about. For me I think I have to say book 4 was The Climax for me. A beautiful happy ending book. Honestly didnt want to put it down and didn't want it to end!!
Loved the way we had a little bit of prespective from Jacob's point, that was cool, wish Meyer could have done the same for Edward as well...
All in all a lovely end to the Bella, Edward and Jacob saga. I would definitely recommend it to anyone.
I don't understand what the big problem is - I loved it!, 06 Oct 2008
Although my favourite book in the series is probably Eclipse, I still really enjoyed Breaking Dawn and thought it came to a conclusion that the majority of readers will be satisfied with. I think there would have been more uproar if it had gone any other way!
I was completely engrossed and didn't put the book down till it was finished. I really don't see how it could have gone any other way - unless fans wanted to see 90% of the characters they love be destroyed in a blood thirsty ending that really doesn't fit with the tone of the rest of the books!
Was it worth waiting for?, 04 Oct 2008
The answer is definitely yes! Be warned, once you start reading it you'll want to keep going until the end and then you'll wish you read it more slowly.
FANTASTIC, 03 Oct 2008
I LOVED IT. I cant really undertsand why people are so disappointed in Breaking Dawn I thought it was a fantastic end to the series even if I am a lil bit upset that it had to end. Having only discoverd the series recently and read them all withing a matter of days i loved loved loved it and am so excited about the upcoming film version of Twilight. I would totally reccomend the Twilight Saga for all.
Book written for cash instead of fans!! No spoilers. , 03 Oct 2008
How do you know that the time has come to stop writing sequels? Well.. when you publisher offers you thousands of dollars for it and you have noooo idea what you going to write about. This is the case with this book.
I thought the first book was absolutely the best. Second okeyish. Third good. Breaking Dawn doesnt fit into any of those descriptions. For me it was simply awful. The plot was so weak that i couldnt bare to read it all and skiped pages just trying to find a part that i would actualy want to read.
In terms of characters its all gone down hill. Bella turned into some kind of superbeing. Edward is a former shade of himself (for absolutely no reason), Jacob is simply irritating. The rest of cast are not even worth mentioning. The ending is absolutely pathetic. I think i could have written a better one.
I look forward to the film which should be in the UK around january 2009. But i hope they will never turn the 4th book into a film.
My recomendation: you should read it so you know how the story ends. But dont expect to be wowed. I read my copy and then sold it the next day. Yep, that's how much i "loved" the book.
By Angus Nicholson, 07 Oct 2008
Artemis Fowl is a fantasy book about a teenage criminal mastermind who discovered subterranean fairies. It is an action-packed book filled with wacky characters and jokes.
The plot is about Artemis having to travel back in time to find a cure to save his mother. The cure is a lemur which Artemis had killed when he was ten-years old because Mother had spent the money that Artemis was going to use to help try and get back his father who was taken by the mafia. This was a childish piece of revenge and he's now going to have to retrieve it from his younger-self's clutches.
Artemis, until recently, had been a criminal sought on becoming the most powerful one in the world until he discovered that that wasn't the most important thing in life. Now, he had a new outlook on life and was using his brains, power and wealth to help the environment and he had now given up his criminal lifestyle. You see that Artemis is now a family man with two younger brothers and is set on making his family's life as enjoyable as possible.
The storyline was brilliantly thought out with characters from the different books reappearing. However, you started to become slightly confused as you began to wonder who was from the present and who was from the past, so it started to turn into mayhem. Once having discovered where you were in the book (after reading it back a few times), it was a very entertaining read. The story kept going at a fast pace so you were always on the edge of your chair. I was gripped from start to finish so the author succeeded in that department yet the plot became, in some places, too thick to handle.
Overall, it was a great book and I would happily re-read it over and over again as it was a vastly enthralling experience.
Not one of the better AF books, 04 Oct 2008
I would definitely agree with Guest Reviewer Mo's write-up that this is the weakest of all the AF books, particularly after 'The Lost Colony', which was just brilliant. It does feel that Colfer is re-visiting old stuff and rehashing it, although there is a good twist at the end. Having said this, it was still a good read, and fans of the AF series will like it.
Fowl wishes, 19 Sep 2008
It's been two years since the last entry in the Artemis Fowl series, and although Eoin Colfer's Airman was enough to sustain me during that time I would prefer them to come once every year. But I do understand that authors need to try something new one in a while.
This entry has Artemis and Holly jump eight years into the past to find a cure for a rare disease that is about to be lost forever with an nearly-extinct species of lemur. But since Young Artemis was the one responsible for the animal's demise it's not going to be so easy for them to outwit and outmaneuver their rivals. Obviously the plan does not go smoothly and the mayhem escalates until the closing chapters.
Anyone who hasn't read the previous five books (and if not, why not?) won't have a clue what's going on here, and sound knowledge of the series is needed in order to fully keep up with the story. I did begin to notice a few plot holes here and there and a couple of bits that didn't make exact quantum physical sense, but that's why it's called 'The Time Paradox' after all. Colfer must have a wonderfully active imagination to keep a hold of all this in his mind before writing it down.
It sets up the story for another sequel but I would like to see Artemis and Holly move on as friends next time instead of them always falling in and out, I've had enough of that, and the lack of love between them cost this entry a star. Still, a solid 4/5 though.
Pure Genius!!!, 15 Sep 2008
I can't even explain the fantastic plot twists that riddle this book.
The tension of one Criminal Genius against another, with an old, surprise character from earlier in the series it's completely enthralling.
both Artemis's have trouble hanging on to life especially when K....... comes into the fray!
Best yet I'd say, 03 Sep 2008
A few people said this was one of Eoin Colfer's "weaker" books, I say they couldn't be more wrong. In my opinion this is by far the best Artemis Fowl so far. Considering I'm not exactly the target audience, at 19 years old, just adds further credit to how riveting, consuming and exhilarating this book is.
It is good that the style is slightly different with more in depth character development. We don't want the first book repeated again but in different words.
Well done Eoin!!
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Customer Reviews
Loved. It., 06 Oct 2008
Better than the first two put together (and bigger, too!)- it was a great break from my Uni studies and I wasn't disappointed! Paolini is certainly becoming a better writer as the series progresses; I think ending the trilogy here would have been a bit rushed- Brisingr allows Eragon to develop as a person and a Rider, and the result doesn't feel as if everything is being crammed in before the inevitable final conflict. Instead we have the continuing adventures of Eragon and Saphira as they mature and struggle to find Galbatorix's weakness (yes, he has one ^^)- there's enough revelations and action in this to satisfy any Inheritance Cycle fan.
And to those moaning about extensions for commercial reasons, etc... WE GET ANOTHER BOOK AFTER THIS!!! YAY!!!
Recommended 100% ;D
xoxo
A big dissapointment., 05 Oct 2008
After having thoroughly enjoyed the first two books, Eragon and Eldest, my expectations for the third were admittedly high. Even so, when I was reading Brisingr, the only thought that kept me reading on was that these rather lame side plots were building up to a "gripping" scene. To my dismay, this scene never came.
Paolini's influence from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is clearly noticeable, and this put me off the book. There is no doubt about it that the Paolini's creation of Alagaësia is very impressive, but it needs to be completely original, (gosh I sound so stuck up and pessimistic)!
In addition, some of the scenes were very long and I found myself losing concentration, and i'm not one for having a short concentration span. Despite the long scenes, it is not as detailed as I imagined it to be, and I believe that some stages of the book are completely unneccessary. Sorry, but parts of Brisngr have been poorly written.
To justify these perhaps hypercritical views, I came up with a thoery that, being 17, i was perhaps not young enough, and too critical to enjoy the book.
If this is the case, although i strongly doubt it, I am dissapointed that Paolini hasn't aimed Brisingr to the age group who were "the right age" when Eragon was released. But I will repeat again, "i strongly doubt it."
WELL... I think it is quite clear that I found Brisingr a big dissapointment, so I am surprised by my rating and my urge to buy the last book of the cycle. so I suppose Paolini's technique in dragging the 3rd book out has been to keep readers hopeful that the last one of the series will be worth the bore of the third.
enjoyable... but hardly original, 05 Oct 2008
Better than the previous books in the series, several strands of the previous books are rounded off (concerning the werecat's riddle) there are some decent battles, the pace of the book makes it easy to read and shifts of perspective add interest. I felt satisfied after reading it (good job I had no high expectations!)
However, several great flaws cannot be over-looked. Instead of a decent story it was more like a string of ideological debates and rather pathetic speeches on morality put togeather, forced onto a narrow plot. There is no room for this in fantasy- only the greatest of stories could make such garbage bearable. Unfortunatly that doesn't apply in this case.
Once again, we are forced to bear pale shadows of Tolkien's middle earth- namely Paolini's 'ancient language' and the rather pompous 'on the origin of names' section at the back. We are forced to endure his rip-off versions of evles and dwarfs- of which there are no characters of real depth.
I don't like the characters. I despise Nasuada, a chimpanzee could run an army better and add more wit to proceedings. She is cold hearted and completely lacks any likeable qualities. Eragon has no spine, he more or less lets everyone else make decisions for him and has no individuality whatsoever. He moans about killing people, if he felt that bad, then why battle at all? The Varden do not strike me as a force of good but as another power-hungry organisation after the crown. There is no real distinction between them and the mad-king. Saphira is the only redeemable character- but even then- lacks any depth.
Overall the lead character and plot failed a bit. And whilst on the whole enjoyable, this is nothing original (plenty of stuff filched from star wars). It will probably still recieve a good reception though, despite quality of writing, because of it's use of age-old 'hero' patterns. Hardly 'Lord of the Rings'.
Enjoyable, but a strange change of pace, 05 Oct 2008
Overall, I enjoyed reading Brisingr - it's a worthy follow-up to Eldest. The book does exactly what Paolini sets out to do in his afterword - explore the characters a bit more, explain things in more detail, set the stage for the final book without rushing things. However, after the steady pace of Eragon and Eldest, you can't help but feel that not much happens in Brisingr - you almost feel like he's moving all the chess pieces into place in readiness for the final book.
It's not an agonising Robert Jordan kind of slowness, and the plot does move along relatively nicely, but compared to the other two books, it's a weird change of pace. You get the feeling that if Paolini could write all of the books again, he could make it a bit more consistent and evenly paced. That said, his authorial skill has certainly increased tenfold since Eragon, which I found vaguely irritating and slightly amateurish in places - whereas Brisingr is polished and potentially slightly too self-impressed. However, cynicism aside, Eragon's adventures continue apace in Brisingr and there are plenty of nice twists and plenty of time for Roran's own adventures. It's the kind of book you'll really love once you've got all four - but it left me wanting more. I'd agree with the previous reviewers that the attempts at humour don't really work - the book didn't really make me laugh, and (according to the afterword) the reference to Dr Who is completely out of place - I'm a fan too, but it's just not appropriate and make Paolini look slightly juvenile, which is a shame, because his writing is clearly that of a skilled adult and his overall execution is really excellent.
It's a great book, and I'm really looking forward to the fourth one. I don't want to say I'm disappointed with the book, because I never felt that way - and it is a very compelling read (I finished it in less than a week) but there are some odd points to it, and it does feel a bit inconsistent at times. Overall, an excellent book, but with some strange touches.
Overall very good, 04 Oct 2008
Brisingr was a lot better than Eldest but I was disappointed with a few things. Although I like the fact that Brom is Eragon's father, it was thrown up quite suddenly and it's quite annoying that the climax in Eldest was when Eragon found out who his father was when he could have just found out Brom was his father anyway. Overall the book was very good and I really can't wait for the final book.
A Large Diamond Among Gems, 05 Oct 2008
More than 20 years ago now, a good friend pressed a copy of "The Colour of Magic" into my hands that launched a love affair with Terry's books that lasts to this day. Like most frustrated authors who lack the talent to deliver themselves, I read a lot, and I think I have read pretty much all that Terry has written since 198whatever, and yes some of it is quite a lot better than some other bits, but his work has never once been a disappointment.
So I was delighted to see Nation appear on the shelf last week and have just used a rainy Sunday morning to finish it.
A quick summation, of the important points; this is not a Disc World novel, it is a book aimed at anyone over about 9 who can read. It deals with the not inconsequential questions of being us, whoever or wherever that may be, and it does it by telling a good story. It is in fact, very good indeed.
I think this is a book Terry has wanted to write for a while, it has a highly polished feel to it, and I have to say represents a stand out piece of work even for his well known if remarkable talent to make us laugh and ponder for a while.
This should be essential reading for all youngsters who might go on to rule a nation, guard a border, expand our knowledge of the universe, join the priesthood or just decide to go fishing.
It certainly will be in my house.
Thanks (again) Terry
Trev Harvey
Not as good as I had hoped, 04 Oct 2008
I had high hopes for this book, possibly too high. Despite the majority of readers giving this rave reviews I'm afraid I'll have to stick with the opinions of the few nay-sayers. I really couldn't get into this book as much as I had hoped - it meanders along at a fairly gentle pace and has a very different 'feel' to Pratchett's other works, but it rarely engaged my emotions or imagination and I didn't feel like I could 'connect' to any of the characters. There are good moments of course, but it really does feel like it's lacking something.
Maybe I'll enjoy it more when (if) I ever re-read it. You can't please all the people all the time. I generally love Pratchett's books and thoroughly look forward to the next one.
Wonderful - and this is a kids book???, 04 Oct 2008
What a fantastic book, I had already read the pre-amble when I ordered the book so I wasn't expecting a discworld novel. This is fabulous though and in it's own way as good as or better than the discworld books. Rather than ride just the frothy waves of humour, this book often dives below the surf into the deeper darker world of real emotions.
The storytelling is magical and I could easily have read this in one sitting but instead I made it last 4 days :)The characters were fantastic and you really get to know and care about Mau and Daphne.
This book will sit on my bookshelf forever and every so often I will take it down and go and vist Mau and Daphne again.
I cannot reccomend it enough, just don't ruin it for yourself by expecting a discworld novel - it's better even that that in it's own way :)
A Classic in the truest sense, 02 Oct 2008
I want to add my review here of Nation but it's actually an extraordinarily difficult thing to do. The reason is that I don't want to appear to be `gushing' with praise for it. If ever I read such a review, it normally has the effect of turning me off the book completely, as it's obviously written by a fan who hasn't read a different author or genre since they left primary school. In view of this, here's what I genuinely thought of it:
I finished the book last night and my immediate thought was `Oh my gosh, this is a classic'. This is a book that will be discussed, debated and written about for years to come. It's a bit like being around when a new Dickens or Jane Austin novel came out.
The plot has been mentioned here already, so I won't repeat it again. I see that some reviewers have said that Nation is pitched at older children in their teens, but don't be fooled. This book has so much depth and can be read at so many levels, there's enough here to keep 10 year old Harry Potter fans to Academic Philosophers happy. The writing style is as clear and sparkling as cut crystal and while reading it, Pratchatt takes your conscious mind out of this world and into his. You become each character, looking through their eyes, thinking their thoughts and feeling their every emotion. It is a fully immersive experience. The book also engages the brain by making you think about how societies and belief systems are created and our place in them. It is also a book to make you think about what makes you, you. If ever there was a book that could provide software upgrade for your brain, this is it.
Terry, I'll probably never meet you in person, but thank you for such a special gift.
One of those feel-good experiences, 01 Oct 2008
Every so often you come across a book that just makes you feel good. The first time I read "The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency" was like that, and even though I've been reading Terry Pratchett's books for many years now, this book was another of those experiences.
That's not to say that this is all warm, fuzzy stuff. Indeed, there's death aplenty (and since this isn't a Discworld book, no DEATH) but the way that Pratchett handles all the less palatable aspects of life and death still gives you a good feeling. (I read somewhere recently that he'd had an experience where he suddenly felt that all was right with the world and there was no reason to worry - not something he would describe as a religious experience, but similar in some ways. I wonder whether that was before, after or while he was writing this book, because a lot of it seems to seep through).
Highly recommended both for people who are already Pratchett fans, but also for those who have never read him or avoided him - stop being snobby because he's a popular author and find out WHY. This is a fine piece of work.
Really cute...., 07 Oct 2008
Frankly, I dont know what you haters are going on about. For me I think I have to say book 4 was The Climax for me. A beautiful happy ending book. Honestly didnt want to put it down and didn't want it to end!!
Loved the way we had a little bit of prespective from Jacob's point, that was cool, wish Meyer could have done the same for Edward as well...
All in all a lovely end to the Bella, Edward and Jacob saga. I would definitely recommend it to anyone.
I don't understand what the big problem is - I loved it!, 06 Oct 2008
Although my favourite book in the series is probably Eclipse, I still really enjoyed Breaking Dawn and thought it came to a conclusion that the majority of readers will be satisfied with. I think there would have been more uproar if it had gone any other way!
I was completely engrossed and didn't put the book down till it was finished. I really don't see how it could have gone any other way - unless fans wanted to see 90% of the characters they love be destroyed in a blood thirsty ending that really doesn't fit with the tone of the rest of the books!
Was it worth waiting for?, 04 Oct 2008
The answer is definitely yes! Be warned, once you start reading it you'll want to keep going until the end and then you'll wish you read it more slowly.
FANTASTIC, 03 Oct 2008
I LOVED IT. I cant really undertsand why people are so disappointed in Breaking Dawn I thought it was a fantastic end to the series even if I am a lil bit upset that it had to end. Having only discoverd the series recently and read them all withing a matter of days i loved loved loved it and am so excited about the upcoming film version of Twilight. I would totally reccomend the Twilight Saga for all.
Book written for cash instead of fans!! No spoilers. , 03 Oct 2008
How do you know that the time has come to stop writing sequels? Well.. when you publisher offers you thousands of dollars for it and you have noooo idea what you going to write about. This is the case with this book.
I thought the first book was absolutely the best. Second okeyish. Third good. Breaking Dawn doesnt fit into any of those descriptions. For me it was simply awful. The plot was so weak that i couldnt bare to read it all and skiped pages just trying to find a part that i would actualy want to read.
In terms of characters its all gone down hill. Bella turned into some kind of superbeing. Edward is a former shade of himself (for absolutely no reason), Jacob is simply irritating. The rest of cast are not even worth mentioning. The ending is absolutely pathetic. I think i could have written a better one.
I look forward to the film which should be in the UK around january 2009. But i hope they will never turn the 4th book into a film.
My recomendation: you should read it so you know how the story ends. But dont expect to be wowed. I read my copy and then sold it the next day. Yep, that's how much i "loved" the book.
By Angus Nicholson, 07 Oct 2008
Artemis Fowl is a fantasy book about a teenage criminal mastermind who discovered subterranean fairies. It is an action-packed book filled with wacky characters and jokes.
The plot is about Artemis having to travel back in time to find a cure to save his mother. The cure is a lemur which Artemis had killed when he was ten-years old because Mother had spent the money that Artemis was going to use to help try and get back his father who was taken by the mafia. This was a childish piece of revenge and he's now going to have to retrieve it from his younger-self's clutches.
Artemis, until recently, had been a criminal sought on becoming the most powerful one in the world until he discovered that that wasn't the most important thing in life. Now, he had a new outlook on life and was using his brains, power and wealth to help the environment and he had now given up his criminal lifestyle. You see that Artemis is now a family man with two younger brothers and is set on making his family's life as enjoyable as possible.
The storyline was brilliantly thought out with characters from the different books reappearing. However, you started to become slightly confused as you began to wonder who was from the present and who was from the past, so it started to turn into mayhem. Once having discovered where you were in the book (after reading it back a few times), it was a very entertaining read. The story kept going at a fast pace so you were always on the edge of your chair. I was gripped from start to finish so the author succeeded in that department yet the plot became, in some places, too thick to handle.
Overall, it was a great book and I would happily re-read it over and over again as it was a vastly enthralling experience.
Not one of the better AF books, 04 Oct 2008
I would definitely agree with Guest Reviewer Mo's write-up that this is the weakest of all the AF books, particularly after 'The Lost Colony', which was just brilliant. It does feel that Colfer is re-visiting old stuff and rehashing it, although there is a good twist at the end. Having said this, it was still a good read, and fans of the AF series will like it.
Fowl wishes, 19 Sep 2008
It's been two years since the last entry in the Artemis Fowl series, and although Eoin Colfer's Airman was enough to sustain me during that time I would prefer them to come once every year. But I do understand that authors need to try something new one in a while.
This entry has Artemis and Holly jump eight years into the past to find a cure for a rare disease that is about to be lost forever with an nearly-extinct species of lemur. But since Young Artemis was the one responsible for the animal's demise it's not going to be so easy for them to outwit and outmaneuver their rivals. Obviously the plan does not go smoothly and the mayhem escalates until the closing chapters.
Anyone who hasn't read the previous five books (and if not, why not?) won't have a clue what's going on here, and sound knowledge of the series is needed in order to fully keep up with the story. I did begin to notice a few plot holes here and there and a couple of bits that didn't make exact quantum physical sense, but that's why it's called 'The Time Paradox' after all. Colfer must have a wonderfully active imagination to keep a hold of all this in his mind before writing it down.
It sets up the story for another sequel but I would like to see Artemis and Holly move on as friends next time instead of them always falling in and out, I've had enough of that, and the lack of love between them cost this entry a star. Still, a solid 4/5 though.
Pure Genius!!!, 15 Sep 2008
I can't even explain the fantastic plot twists that riddle this book.
The tension of one Criminal Genius against another, with an old, surprise character from earlier in the series it's completely enthralling.
both Artemis's have trouble hanging on to life especially when K....... comes into the fray!
Best yet I'd say, 03 Sep 2008
A few people said this was one of Eoin Colfer's "weaker" books, I say they couldn't be more wrong. In my opinion this is by far the best Artemis Fowl so far. Considering I'm not exactly the target audience, at 19 years old, just adds further credit to how riveting, consuming and exhilarating this book is.
It is good that the style is slightly different with more in depth character development. We don't want the first book repeated again but in different words.
Well done Eoin!!
A solid but slightly disappointing finale - Contains Spoilers, 03 Oct 2008
The three earlier books in this series are amongst the best fantasy novels I've ever read. Unfortunately, 'The Singing' is not, in my opinion, nearly so good. 'The Riddle', for instance, is a thrilling book from start to finish. It's shocking and visceral - the sort of book that has you anxious for the safety of its characters throughout. The problem, for me, with 'The Singing' is that it has nothing close to that excitement. In fact, it has very little tension, very few if any surprises, and most importantly didn't demand an engagement with its characters from this reader in the way 'The Riddle' demanded you sat up straight and paid attention.
Maered is so powerful in this book I didn't fear for her in the slightest. The amoral'elemental' potential towards evil at the root of her character (introduced in 'The Riddle') was really the aspect of her that would, considering her powers, make her interesting - again, I felt this aspect of her was just hinted at, and again, failed to generate tension or complexity in this novel. All the set pieces are anti-climaxes - neither the Landrost nor the Nameless One are seen, the battles with them are 'psychological'. The overall effect is woolly and unaffecting. Hem's story, perhaps surprisingly, (though 'The Crow' was excellent too!) has more tension and a sense of things being at stake - the scene where Hem fights for Saliman's life is the most powerful in the book. It's a terrible shame I feel because it was just the most brilliant series. My suspicion is that Alison Croggon wanted to provide a timely portrait of a world beset by war and environmental crisis, but the emphasis on flooded landscapes and wartorn communities alongside a slow paced, very 'psychological' novel produced, for me, a very muted, anticlimactic conclusion to this series.
I wished it went on!, 01 Oct 2008
I have been waiting for this book for over a year since I read the first book, and was kept in suspense when it was meant to be a trilogy to begin with!
The Singing continued the story of Maread, Cadvan, Hem, Saliman and Irc. I do agree with one reviewer and that it was an anticlimax and the final showdown was a disappointment. I was also diasppointed with Croggan for not really developing the relationship between Maread and Cadvan, and so when the ending did come, it felt like I had skipped a few chapters and missed it all! I am looking forward to reading her next books, whatever that may be.
Not as impressive as The Crow, 21 Sep 2008
It was a very good read but a bit disapointing.
there were no main battle scenes at all. In the end it was a dull journey story. when maerad finally sung the treesong was boring and you ended up wanting it to end. This book is ok but not the best in the quartet.
Simply Stunning!, 14 Sep 2008
A fantastic end to a truly spellbinding quartet. Alison Croggon creats a rich, vivid world and characters with real depth; the books are brought to life. Formerly a poet, Croggon really can write compellingly, and the material in itself is a joy to read. Origional, exciting, and three other books in the quartet to enjoy before this one...
In this final book of Pellinor, Maerad of Pellinor and Cadvan of Lirigon embark on an arduous journey to find Maerad's brother, Hem, who is travelling with the Great Bard Saliman of Turbansk. They race against time as Sharma marches across Edil-Amarandh with his army of darkness, spreading destruction in its wake. Fate lies in the awakening of the treesong within the mysterious Elidhu, themselves a part of nature in Edil Amarandh (the world). If the singing does not prevail, the already dimmed light of this world may be crushed altogether.
Based on a collection of real poems, written by the main character Maerad herself and translated by the author, this story has a wonderful epic feel of depth and truth to it, even though powers sift through the tale that would be impossible in our world today. The books also contain notes in the back about the characters and translations, and this one contains a particularly interesting story about Cadvan as a child, which will shed light on some earlier parts of the story.
Having read these books just once, I will probably read them again in the future - they are the sort that, due to content and writing style, can be read over again. If you have not already read the first three books: The Gift, The Riddle and The Crow, then I would strongly recommend them as all are excellent. I would also advise reading them before you read this fourth one, The Singing.
Nice read, 12 Sep 2008
I could hardly wait to read this book and once I started reading it I was sad because another great series was coming to an end.
I enjoyed it; not as much as the Gift but it was good. Couple of things were quiet predictable but still fun to read. Only the end (as someone else already said)was somehow a bit of an anticlimax. I finished the last chapter, turned the page and read "epilogue" and I was like "huh, what?". It was just not an appropriate ending to such a story in my opinion. At some points of the story I would have given much to know about Cadvans thoughts and feelings, but well; we can't have everything.
So - a good book in a series of solid good books. The Pellinor Books are one of my favourites and I'll miss them.
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Customer Reviews
Loved. It., 06 Oct 2008
Better than the first two put together (and bigger, too!)- it was a great break from my Uni studies and I wasn't disappointed! Paolini is certainly becoming a better writer as the series progresses; I think ending the trilogy here would have been a bit rushed- Brisingr allows Eragon to develop as a person and a Rider, and the result doesn't feel as if everything is being crammed in before the inevitable final conflict. Instead we have the continuing adventures of Eragon and Saphira as they mature and struggle to find Galbatorix's weakness (yes, he has one ^^)- there's enough revelations and action in this to satisfy any Inheritance Cycle fan.
And to those moaning about extensions for commercial reasons, etc... WE GET ANOTHER BOOK AFTER THIS!!! YAY!!!
Recommended 100% ;D
xoxo
A big dissapointment., 05 Oct 2008
After having thoroughly enjoyed the first two books, Eragon and Eldest, my expectations for the third were admittedly high. Even so, when I was reading Brisingr, the only thought that kept me reading on was that these rather lame side plots were building up to a "gripping" scene. To my dismay, this scene never came.
Paolini's influence from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is clearly noticeable, and this put me off the book. There is no doubt about it that the Paolini's creation of Alagaësia is very impressive, but it needs to be completely original, (gosh I sound so stuck up and pessimistic)!
In addition, some of the scenes were very long and I found myself losing concentration, and i'm not one for having a short concentration span. Despite the long scenes, it is not as detailed as I imagined it to be, and I believe that some stages of the book are completely unneccessary. Sorry, but parts of Brisngr have been poorly written.
To justify these perhaps hypercritical views, I came up with a thoery that, being 17, i was perhaps not young enough, and too critical to enjoy the book.
If this is the case, although i strongly doubt it, I am dissapointed that Paolini hasn't aimed Brisingr to the age group who were "the right age" when Eragon was released. But I will repeat again, "i strongly doubt it."
WELL... I think it is quite clear that I found Brisingr a big dissapointment, so I am surprised by my rating and my urge to buy the last book of the cycle. so I suppose Paolini's technique in dragging the 3rd book out has been to keep readers hopeful that the last one of the series will be worth the bore of the third.
enjoyable... but hardly original, 05 Oct 2008
Better than the previous books in the series, several strands of the previous books are rounded off (concerning the werecat's riddle) there are some decent battles, the pace of the book makes it easy to read and shifts of perspective add interest. I felt satisfied after reading it (good job I had no high expectations!)
However, several great flaws cannot be over-looked. Instead of a decent story it was more like a string of ideological debates and rather pathetic speeches on morality put togeather, forced onto a narrow plot. There is no room for this in fantasy- only the greatest of stories could make such garbage bearable. Unfortunatly that doesn't apply in this case.
Once again, we are forced to bear pale shadows of Tolkien's middle earth- namely Paolini's 'ancient language' and the rather pompous 'on the origin of names' section at the back. We are forced to endure his rip-off versions of evles and dwarfs- of which there are no characters of real depth.
I don't like the characters. I despise Nasuada, a chimpanzee could run an army better and add more wit to proceedings. She is cold hearted and completely lacks any likeable qualities. Eragon has no spine, he more or less lets everyone else make decisions for him and has no individuality whatsoever. He moans about killing people, if he felt that bad, then why battle at all? The Varden do not strike me as a force of good but as another power-hungry organisation after the crown. There is no real distinction between them and the mad-king. Saphira is the only redeemable character- but even then- lacks any depth.
Overall the lead character and plot failed a bit. And whilst on the whole enjoyable, this is nothing original (plenty of stuff filched from star wars). It will probably still recieve a good reception though, despite quality of writing, because of it's use of age-old 'hero' patterns. Hardly 'Lord of the Rings'.
Enjoyable, but a strange change of pace, 05 Oct 2008
Overall, I enjoyed reading Brisingr - it's a worthy follow-up to Eldest. The book does exactly what Paolini sets out to do in his afterword - explore the characters a bit more, explain things in more detail, set the stage for the final book without rushing things. However, after the steady pace of Eragon and Eldest, you can't help but feel that not much happens in Brisingr - you almost feel like he's moving all the chess pieces into place in readiness for the final book.
It's not an agonising Robert Jordan kind of slowness, and the plot does move along relatively nicely, but compared to the other two books, it's a weird change of pace. You get the feeling that if Paolini could write all of the books again, he could make it a bit more consistent and evenly paced. That said, his authorial skill has certainly increased tenfold since Eragon, which I found vaguely irritating and slightly amateurish in places - whereas Brisingr is polished and potentially slightly too self-impressed. However, cynicism aside, Eragon's adventures continue apace in Brisingr and there are plenty of nice twists and plenty of time for Roran's own adventures. It's the kind of book you'll really love once you've got all four - but it left me wanting more. I'd agree with the previous reviewers that the attempts at humour don't really work - the book didn't really make me laugh, and (according to the afterword) the reference to Dr Who is completely out of place - I'm a fan too, but it's just not appropriate and make Paolini look slightly juvenile, which is a shame, because his writing is clearly that of a skilled adult and his overall execution is really excellent.
It's a great book, and I'm really looking forward to the fourth one. I don't want to say I'm disappointed with the book, because I never felt that way - and it is a very compelling read (I finished it in less than a week) but there are some odd points to it, and it does feel a bit inconsistent at times. Overall, an excellent book, but with some strange touches.
Overall very good, 04 Oct 2008
Brisingr was a lot better than Eldest but I was disappointed with a few things. Although I like the fact that Brom is Eragon's father, it was thrown up quite suddenly and it's quite annoying that the climax in Eldest was when Eragon found out who his father was when he could have just found out Brom was his father anyway. Overall the book was very good and I really can't wait for the final book.
A Large Diamond Among Gems, 05 Oct 2008
More than 20 years ago now, a good friend pressed a copy of "The Colour of Magic" into my hands that launched a love affair with Terry's books that lasts to this day. Like most frustrated authors who lack the talent to deliver themselves, I read a lot, and I think I have read pretty much all that Terry has written since 198whatever, and yes some of it is quite a lot better than some other bits, but his work has never once been a disappointment.
So I was delighted to see Nation appear on the shelf last week and have just used a rainy Sunday morning to finish it.
A quick summation, of the important points; this is not a Disc World novel, it is a book aimed at anyone over about 9 who can read. It deals with the not inconsequential questions of being us, whoever or wherever that may be, and it does it by telling a good story. It is in fact, very good indeed.
I think this is a book Terry has wanted to write for a while, it has a highly polished feel to it, and I have to say represents a stand out piece of work even for his well known if remarkable talent to make us laugh and ponder for a while.
This should be essential reading for all youngsters who might go on to rule a nation, guard a border, expand our knowledge of the universe, join the priesthood or just decide to go fishing.
It certainly will be in my house.
Thanks (again) Terry
Trev Harvey
Not as good as I had hoped, 04 Oct 2008
I had high hopes for this book, possibly too high. Despite the majority of readers giving this rave reviews I'm afraid I'll have to stick with the opinions of the few nay-sayers. I really couldn't get into this book as much as I had hoped - it meanders along at a fairly gentle pace and has a very different 'feel' to Pratchett's other works, but it rarely engaged my emotions or imagination and I didn't feel like I could 'connect' to any of the characters. There are good moments of course, but it really does feel like it's lacking something.
Maybe I'll enjoy it more when (if) I ever re-read it. You can't please all the people all the time. I generally love Pratchett's books and thoroughly look forward to the next one.
Wonderful - and this is a kids book???, 04 Oct 2008
What a fantastic book, I had already read the pre-amble when I ordered the book so I wasn't expecting a discworld novel. This is fabulous though and in it's own way as good as or better than the discworld books. Rather than ride just the frothy waves of humour, this book often dives below the surf into the deeper darker world of real emotions.
The storytelling is magical and I could easily have read this in one sitting but instead I made it last 4 days :)The characters were fantastic and you really get to know and care about Mau and Daphne.
This book will sit on my bookshelf forever and every so often I will take it down and go and vist Mau and Daphne again.
I cannot reccomend it enough, just don't ruin it for yourself by expecting a discworld novel - it's better even that that in it's own way :)
A Classic in the truest sense, 02 Oct 2008
I want to add my review here of Nation but it's actually an extraordinarily difficult thing to do. The reason is that I don't want to appear to be `gushing' with praise for it. If ever I read such a review, it normally has the effect of turning me off the book completely, as it's obviously written by a fan who hasn't read a different author or genre since they left primary school. In view of this, here's what I genuinely thought of it:
I finished the book last night and my immediate thought was `Oh my gosh, this is a classic'. This is a book that will be discussed, debated and written about for years to come. It's a bit like being around when a new Dickens or Jane Austin novel came out.
The plot has been mentioned here already, so I won't repeat it again. I see that some reviewers have said that Nation is pitched at older children in their teens, but don't be fooled. This book has so much depth and can be read at so many levels, there's enough here to keep 10 year old Harry Potter fans to Academic Philosophers happy. The writing style is as clear and sparkling as cut crystal and while reading it, Pratchatt takes your conscious mind out of this world and into his. You become each character, looking through their eyes, thinking their thoughts and feeling their every emotion. It is a fully immersive experience. The book also engages the brain by making you think about how societies and belief systems are created and our place in them. It is also a book to make you think about what makes you, you. If ever there was a book that could provide software upgrade for your brain, this is it.
Terry, I'll probably never meet you in person, but thank you for such a special gift.
One of those feel-good experiences, 01 Oct 2008
Every so often you come across a book that just makes you feel good. The first time I read "The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency" was like that, and even though I've been reading Terry Pratchett's books for many years now, this book was another of those experiences.
That's not to say that this is all warm, fuzzy stuff. Indeed, there's death aplenty (and since this isn't a Discworld book, no DEATH) but the way that Pratchett handles all the less palatable aspects of life and death still gives you a good feeling. (I read somewhere recently that he'd had an experience where he suddenly felt that all was right with the world and there was no reason to worry - not something he would describe as a religious experience, but similar in some ways. I wonder whether that was before, after or while he was writing this book, because a lot of it seems to seep through).
Highly recommended both for people who are already Pratchett fans, but also for those who have never read him or avoided him - stop being snobby because he's a popular author and find out WHY. This is a fine piece of work.
Really cute...., 07 Oct 2008
Frankly, I dont know what you haters are going on about. For me I think I have to say book 4 was The Climax for me. A beautiful happy ending book. Honestly didnt want to put it down and didn't want it to end!!
Loved the way we had a little bit of prespective from Jacob's point, that was cool, wish Meyer could have done the same for Edward as well...
All in all a lovely end to the Bella, Edward and Jacob saga. I would definitely recommend it to anyone.
I don't understand what the big problem is - I loved it!, 06 Oct 2008
Although my favourite book in the series is probably Eclipse, I still really enjoyed Breaking Dawn and thought it came to a conclusion that the majority of readers will be satisfied with. I think there would have been more uproar if it had gone any other way!
I was completely engrossed and didn't put the book down till it was finished. I really don't see how it could have gone any other way - unless fans wanted to see 90% of the characters they love be destroyed in a blood thirsty ending that really doesn't fit with the tone of the rest of the books!
Was it worth waiting for?, 04 Oct 2008
The answer is definitely yes! Be warned, once you start reading it you'll want to keep going until the end and then you'll wish you read it more slowly.
FANTASTIC, 03 Oct 2008
I LOVED IT. I cant really undertsand why people are so disappointed in Breaking Dawn I thought it was a fantastic end to the series even if I am a lil bit upset that it had to end. Having only discoverd the series recently and read them all withing a matter of days i loved loved loved it and am so excited about the upcoming film version of Twilight. I would totally reccomend the Twilight Saga for all.
Book written for cash instead of fans!! No spoilers. , 03 Oct 2008
How do you know that the time has come to stop writing sequels? Well.. when you publisher offers you thousands of dollars for it and you have noooo idea what you going to write about. This is the case with this book.
I thought the first book was absolutely the best. Second okeyish. Third good. Breaking Dawn doesnt fit into any of those descriptions. For me it was simply awful. The plot was so weak that i couldnt bare to read it all and skiped pages just trying to find a part that i would actualy want to read.
In terms of characters its all gone down hill. Bella turned into some kind of superbeing. Edward is a former shade of himself (for absolutely no reason), Jacob is simply irritating. The rest of cast are not even worth mentioning. The ending is absolutely pathetic. I think i could have written a better one.
I look forward to the film which should be in the UK around january 2009. But i hope they will never turn the 4th book into a film.
My recomendation: you should read it so you know how the story ends. But dont expect to be wowed. I read my copy and then sold it the next day. Yep, that's how much i "loved" the book.
By Angus Nicholson, 07 Oct 2008
Artemis Fowl is a fantasy book about a teenage criminal mastermind who discovered subterranean fairies. It is an action-packed book filled with wacky characters and jokes.
The plot is about Artemis having to travel back in time to find a cure to save his mother. The cure is a lemur which Artemis had killed when he was ten-years old because Mother had spent the money that Artemis was going to use to help try and get back his father who was taken by the mafia. This was a childish piece of revenge and he's now going to have to retrieve it from his younger-self's clutches.
Artemis, unti | | |