Eragon and his dragon, have just saved the rebel state from destruction by the forces of King Galbatorix. Now, Eragon must travel to Ellesmera for further training in magic. Meanwhile, his cousin Roran must fight a new battle back home in Carvahall - one that puts Eragon in even graver danger. Will the king's dark hand strangle all resistance?

'A winner - tip of the hat to young master Paolini' Anne McCaffrey, author of The Dragonriders of Pern series'A compelling and action- filled adventure ... a galloping good example of its genre' Daily Telegraph'This book is an achievement. Readers ...

Set once again on the planet Pern, this is a new novel from the author of The Renegades of Pern . Anne McCaffrey, who has won the Hugo and Nebula awards for science fiction, has also written The Rowan and Pegasus in Flight .

Of all the young singers at the Harperhall of Pern, Piemur was the one chosen for the leading role at Lord Groghe's Gather...and then his voice broke. Suddenly his whole future at Harperhall became uncertain. But Masterharper Robinton, Menolly and Sebell had other plans for Piemur. They were sure that his quick wits and discretion could be used to keep a check on the troublesome Oldtimers and ...

The silver Threads began falling again. The dragonriders took to the skies and their flying dragons swirled in space, belching flames that destroyed the strands before they reached the ground. But F'lar knew he had to find it before the rebellious Oldtimers could breed any more dissent - and before his brother launched another suicide mission.