** spoiler alert ** 
 As with Eragon, this is a by the numbers Hero's Journey (specifically Star Wars) that is so faithful and predictable that it feels like a different type of story. This is Empire Strikes Back, but with dragons and sailing ships. But the author takes that skeleton and creates an interesting, consistent, and enjoyable world on top of it. 
 One thing I enjoyed about this book, that's not usually in other fantasy books, is the inclusion of modern topics. The Varden's financial problems and solution provide some economic realism not usually in this sort of book. Also, King Orrin as gentleman chemist makes perfect sense, given how Alagaesia is similar to the early Industrialization era, but with magic in place of technology. 
 I enjoy reading these books and what they lack in story structure originality, they make up for in descriptive writing and world building.