Book Review: Murtagh (The Inheritance Cycle, #5) by Christopher Paolini
As a lifelong fan of The Inheritance Cycle, it goes without saying that picking up Murtagh was akin to reuniting with an old friend. Christopher Paolini first captured my imagination when I was a child, and even now, as I dive into his latest installment, the magic remains, albeit tinged with a different kind of nostalgia. There’s something deeply comforting about revisiting Alagaesia, even as I admit to spotting a few inconsistencies along the way—a hallmark of returning to beloved series as an adult!
From the outset, the premise of this latest adventure intrigued me. The introduction of a Cthulhu-esque cult worshipping an ancient monster sleeping deep underground adds a fresh layer to the narrative. As much as I chuckled at the throwbacks to classic hero vs. villain arcs, it felt refreshing to explore the complexities of fear and belief instead of just good versus evil.
However, much like Murtagh’s journey itself, the pacing is contentious. The initial 45% felt like a long walk for a short drink of water. We follow Murtagh on side quests that often don’t bear much fruit, like a heist that showcases clever magic but ultimately doesn’t provide substantial revelations. The drawn-out fishing episode—a nod to Moby Dick—left me wondering if I was perusing a fantasy novel or an overextended travelogue. While there are certainly moments of insight, they are often dwarfed by the filler, which left me craving more.
Characterization is another realm where I found both brightness and shadow. Murtagh’s own journey is compelling yet frustratingly scattered. His keen wit shines in moments of sass directed at Eragon, yet his decisions often felt dictated by plot rather than a deep exploration of his character. Conversely, Thorn’s claustrophobia is an eloquent touch that illustrates the emotional stakes and the weight of trauma they both carry. Sadly, it also underscores how little we truly get to know him, emphasizing the need for richer dynamics.
Then there’s the magic—oh, how I longed for consistency! The reliable hard magic system I’d cherished now felt looser, with several elements seeming to bend rules established in earlier books. Particularly glaring was Murtagh’s apparent deus ex machina when he can easily heal with basic spells, which raises questions about why previous characters struggled under similar circumstances. This change dampened my sense of immersion and left a lingering feeling of disconnection.
Yet, amid the critiques, Murtagh retains a bittersweet charm, leaving readers intrigued by the interplay of dark cults, magic, and complex character histories. I found myself contemplating the novel’s deeper themes of trauma and the search for identity, especially in the way Murtagh connects with the Empire’s soldiers, humanizing those once seen as faceless enemies.
In conclusion, while Murtagh may not be the triumphant return I had envisioned, it is still a worthy addition for those who hold fond memories of Alagaesia dear. If you’re a fan of character-heavy fantasy that mixes beauty with the occasional stumbling block, you’ll likely enjoy this tale. Paolini still has more magic to weave, and I can’t wait to see where he takes us next, flaws and all. After all, a well-loved series can thrive even with its imperfections.
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