I was unsure how I would feel about this novel at first glance, and the short synopsis. I was blown away! Christopher Paolini is an extraordinary author! I felt as though I was reading a novel of the same, if not better, caliber of Arthur C. Clarke, Philip K. Dick, Frank Herbert, and possibly greats the likes of H.G. Wells and Jules Verne! Kira and Alan were easily lovable characters, and I quickly cared for them. When I came to the final piece of the first glance I was so on edge, and almost screaming no! I found myself holding my breath as fear and panic hit Kira! I felt I was left in the dark craving more of this story! I want to know what happens to Kira, the strange life form, Alan, and the rest of the crew! I already feel extremely vested in this amazing Sci-Fi Fantasy, and I am aching to know what is going to happen! Bravo Christopher! Utterly phenomenal!