Inheritance Cycle

            After eight years and 2,762 pages (not including re-reads), I have finally finished the Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini!
            *sigh*
            My thoughts (trying not to give too much away)? To be totally honest, a bit unsatisfied. Don’t get me wrong, They are amazing books (The first one, Eragon, did not deserve to be murdered the way the movie did). Paolini has a unique and detailed style of writing perfect for the world he created. I think I might be completely fine with the books if my friend who has been reading what I’ve written hadn’t complemented me on one thing I hadn’t noticed several authors lack. I did not understand some of the character’s motivation or decisions. If you spend so long feverishly searching for something, why would you—after all that work—question it only after you’ve found the answer? And if you are miserable with a decision, explain to the reader fully why there are no other possibilities (more than just it was prophesied).
            It is dissatisfying to finally get the end of such a long series and have  the characters not being totally at peace with their fates. I know that years down the road (if not sooner) they will be at peace, but reassure the reader of that. I want an afterward that explains what parts of their plan for the future failed and succeeded. Not a scene like at the end of the Harry Potter series, but just small notes about whether they found what they wanted. I know it was four long books that made up the series, but what are a few more pages if it will leave the reader with some relief?
            Plus, you could fill another four long books with things Paolini mentions but never satisfyingly resolves. I feel like he could—and perhaps should—write a book of legends from Alagaësia and/or a history. It’s obvious that he put a lot of thought into this land, creating languages and histories and legends. Why not continue to have fun and be creative without having to go too deep.
            Over all, I do like the books. I would suggest at least the first one. Paolini creates interesting characters, paints awe inspiring pictures, and tells a good story. I’m sure over time, I will be more at peace with the ending. Maybe my real disappointment is that finishing a series that has been in my life for so long is like losing a friend. I’m just not quite satisfied with this good-bye—or rather a “see you later” as it often is with good books— right now in my life.