Onyx Storm is a triumph of storytelling.
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Rebecca Yarros’s Onyx Storm, the third book in her spellbinding The Empyrean series, is a thrilling and emotionally gripping fantasy that blends breathtaking action, heartfelt moments, and dragons into a captivating story. Set in the dangerous and demanding world of Basgiath War College, the novel continues the saga of Violet Sorrengail as she navigates the trials of being a dragon rider and the tangled web of loyalty, love, and power that surrounds her.
The story picks up with Violet grappling with the aftermath of the battle that changed everything. Basgiath War College, though fortified by its legendary wards, remains a battleground as dark wielders and venin infiltrate its walls. Violet finds herself at the center of a deadly conflict as she fights not only to protect her allies but also to save Xaden Riorson, the man she loves, from the dangerous path he’s been forced to walk. Xaden’s struggle with the dark magic he’s tapped into is both a source of conflict and connection between them, raising the stakes of their relationship.
Violet and Xaden’s relationship is one of the book’s most compelling elements. It’s a bond forged in fire, trust, and shared battles, and it continues to evolve in this installment. Their dynamic crackles with tension as they confront not only external threats but also the dark power lurking within Xaden. Violet’s unwavering belief in Xaden’s goodness becomes a beacon of hope for both, even as Xaden struggles with his own self-doubt. Their moments together are electric and filled with passion, vulnerability, and heartache.
Violet’s bond with her dragons, Tairn and Andarna, is as powerful as it is unique, and it plays a pivotal role in the story. Tairn’s wisdom and commanding presence provide Violet with guidance and strength, acting as both a protector and a mentor. In contrast, Andarna brings a refreshing perspective with her youthful curiosity and fierce loyalty. Their bond goes beyond mere partnership—it’s a connection built on trust, shared experiences, and mutual respect. As Andarna’s extraordinary powers come to light, the stakes are raised even higher, pushing Violet to take on a mission that could not only change the course of the war but redefine what it means to be a dragon rider.
The world-building in Onyx Storm is nothing short of masterful. Yarros expands on the already immersive world of The Empyrean series by taking readers deeper into the isles and their diverse cultures. Each new location adds rich layers to the story, making this world feel vast and full of intrigue. The lore is extraordinary — every new detail about the dragons, their riders, and the history is fascinating. Combined with the tense and ever-shifting group dynamics, the razor-sharp character interactions, and the constant sense of looming danger, the result is a book that is impossible to put down.
Onyx Storm is a triumph of storytelling. With its unforgettable characters, cinematic action, and powerful emotional resonance, this book is an absolute must-read for fans of epic fantasy! Whether you’re here for the dragons, the romance, or the action, Onyx Storm is a story that will stay with you long after the final page.
Speaking of the final page, UGH that ending had me feeling so many things at once! I still have so many questions that demand answers and the fact that I have to wait for book 4 feels utterly criminal!
Publish Date: January 21, 2025
Genre: Fantasy
Page Count: 544 pages
Publisher: Entangled: Red Tower Books
ISBN: 978-1649377159