Published: 2023 | Genre: Romantasy | Pages: 640 | Rating: ★★★★★
A Sequel That Set My Heart on Fire
When I finished Fourth Wing, I didn’t think Rebecca Yarros could top it, but then I dove into Iron Flame in 2023, and wow, was I wrong! This romantasy sequel had me gripping the pages, gasping at twists, and swooning over romance. If you loved Fourth Wing or crave a mix of dragon-riding action and steamy love, this book is your next obsession. In this review, I’ll share why Iron Flame is an epic ride and who’ll be swept away by its fiery magic.
What’s the Story?
Iron Flame picks up right after the jaw-dropping ending of Fourth Wing, following Violet Sorrengail, a dragon rider in training at Basgiath War College. Without spoiling anything, Violet’s back facing brutal challenges—think deadly battles and tougher training—while uncovering secrets that threaten her world. Her bond with her dragon, Tairn, grows stronger, but so does her fiery relationship with Xaden, the brooding rebel leader. As war looms and trust is tested, Violet must fight for her life and her heart in a world where danger lurks everywhere.
Yarros’s world of Navarre is so vivid, with its rugged cliffs and roaring dragons. As someone who geeks out over fantasy creatures, I could practically hear Tairn’s wings flapping. The stakes feel sky-high, and the mix of magic and military training kept me hooked.
Why It’s Absolutely Epic
Yarros writes like she’s casting a spell—every page crackles with energy. Violet is a heroine I adore: smart, stubborn, and fiercely loyal, even when her body’s pushed to the limit. Her romance with Xaden is next-level, with tension so thick I was blushing at their scenes. The dragon battles are heart-pounding, and the plot twists? I yelled out loud at least twice! The found-family vibe among Violet’s squad adds warmth, making you care about every character.
What hit me hard was the story’s emotional depth. Themes of trust, sacrifice, and standing up to corruption feel so real in 2025, when we’re all navigating a world full of tough choices. The magic system, with dragons channeling powers, is thrilling and easy to follow. Plus, Yarros’s diverse cast—different backgrounds, strengths, and struggles—makes the story feel alive and inclusive.
Any Downsides?
Iron Flame is a beast of a book, and I mean that literally—it’s long! At 640 pages, it can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not ready for dense world-building. The middle drags a bit with training scenes that repeat, but the payoff is worth it. Some plot points left me with questions, probably saved for the next book, which frustrated me a little. Still, these are tiny flaws in a story that’s otherwise a wildfire.
Who Should Read It?
This book’s a must for romantasy fans who love dragons, intense romance, and high-stakes action. If you devoured A Dawn of Onyx by Kate Golden or The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent, you’ll be obsessed. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy strong heroines and epic fantasy worlds, best for ages 16+ due to spicy romance and violence. If you prefer short, light reads, the length and intensity might be a lot.
Why It’s a Phenomenon
Iron Flame is a BookTok sensation in 2025, and it’s no surprise why. Yarros takes everything fans loved about Fourth Wing—dragons, romance, betrayals—and cranks it up. The cliffhanger ending had me screaming for the next book in the Empyrean series. In a romantasy world full of fae and vampires, the dragon-rider focus feels fresh, and Violet’s journey as an underdog resonates with so many readers.
My Final Verdict
Iron Flame is a breathtaking, heart-racing sequel that’ll leave you soaring. Rebecca Yarros delivers a world of dragons and desire, with a heroine who fights for everything she loves. I give it five out of five stars for its thrilling plot, swoony romance, and unforgettable characters, with no deductions because it’s just that good. If you’re ready to ride with Violet and Tairn, grab this book and hold on tight.
Want to soar into this epic? Get Iron Flame at your local bookstore or visit Bookshop.org to support indie sellers. Have you read it? Drop your thoughts in the comments!