Published: 2025 | Genre: Romantasy | Pages: ~600 (estimated) | Rating: ★★★★★
A Sequel That Blew Me Away
After the heart-stopping cliffhanger of Iron Flame, I was counting down the days for Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros, and when it hit shelves in 2025, it did not disappoint! This third book in the Empyrean series is a wild, fiery ride that had me laughing, crying, and cheering. If you’re obsessed with Fourth Wing or love dragon-filled epics with steamy romance, this book is your next addiction. In this review, I’ll share why Onyx Storm is a must-read and who’ll soar with its magic—without any spoilers, of course!
What’s the Story?
Onyx Storm dives back into the high-stakes world of Navarre, where Violet Sorrengail continues her journey as a dragon rider at Basgiath War College. The war against dark forces is heating up, and Violet faces new challenges that test her courage, smarts, and heart. Her bond with her dragon, Tairn, is as epic as ever, while her romance with Xaden Riorson burns hotter—and more complicated—than before. New allies, enemies, and secrets shake up everything, making this a page-turner you can’t put down.
Yarros’s world feels so real, with its stormy skies and rugged war college. As someone who loves epic fantasy, I could practically smell the dragon fire and feel the wind of their wings. The stakes are higher than ever, and the mix of magic, battles, and romance kept me glued to every page.
Why It’s Unforgettable
Yarros writes like she’s leading a dragon charge—bold, thrilling, and full of heart. Violet is one of my favorite heroines: whip-smart, stubborn, and always growing, even when the odds are stacked against her. Her chemistry with Xaden is off the charts, with moments that had me blushing and gasping. The action scenes—think dragon duels and sneaky missions—are so vivid I felt like I was in the saddle. The plot twists? Let’s just say my jaw hit the floor more than once!
What really got me was the story’s emotional punch. Themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and fighting for what’s right hit hard in 2025, when the world feels so uncertain. The diverse cast, with characters from different backgrounds and struggles, adds depth and makes you care about everyone. The dragon lore and magic system keep getting richer, making Navarre a world I never want to leave.
Any Weak Points?
Onyx Storm is a beast—likely around 600 pages—and it’s not a light read. The complex plot and new characters can feel overwhelming if you haven’t read Fourth Wing and Iron Flame recently. I had to flip back a few times to remember some details. The middle slows a bit with political drama, which might test impatient readers. But honestly, these are tiny bumps in a book that’s otherwise a total triumph.
Who Should Read It?
This book’s a dream for romantasy fans who love dragons, intense romance, and epic battles. If you devoured The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent or A Dawn of Onyx by Kate Golden, you’ll be obsessed. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy strong heroines and high-stakes fantasy, best for ages 16+ due to spicy romance and violence. If you prefer short, standalone stories, the series commitment and intensity might be a lot.
Why It’s a Sensation
Onyx Storm is ruling BookTok in 2025, with fans losing it over Violet and Xaden’s romance and those dragon scenes. Yarros keeps raising the bar, blending heart-pounding action with emotional depth that hooks you. As the third book in the Empyrean series, it builds on everything fans love while setting up more to come. In a romantasy world full of fae and vampires, its dragon-rider focus is a fiery standout.
My Final Verdict
Onyx Storm is a soaring, heart-racing romantasy that’ll leave you breathless. Rebecca Yarros crafts a world of danger and desire, with characters who feel like family. I give it five out of five stars for its epic plot, swoony romance, and dragon-powered thrills, with no deductions because it’s just that good. If you’re ready to fly with Violet and Tairn, grab this book and buckle up.
Want to ride this dragon storm? Get Onyx Storm at your local bookstore or check Bookshop.org to support indie sellers. Read it yet? Share your thoughts in the comments!