Picture this: you’re riding a dragon, wind whipping through your hair, with a war-torn world below and a secret so heavy it could shatter everything you love. That’s the vibe of Onyx Storm, the third book in Rebecca Yarros’ blockbuster Empyrean series, released on January 21, 2025. If you loved the dragon-riding, heart-pounding romance of Fourth Wing and Iron Flame, buckle up—this one’s a wild ride.
Onyx Storm picks up right after the jaw-dropping cliffhanger of Iron Flame. Violet Sorrengail, our fierce lightning-wielding heroine, is no longer the newbie at Basgiath War College. After 18 months of brutal training, she’s a battle-hardened dragon rider facing a world where trust is scarce and enemies lurk both outside and within Navarre’s crumbling wards. The story follows Violet as she ventures beyond Aretia to seek allies in unfamiliar lands, desperate to save her dragons (Tairn and Andarna), her family, her home, and Xaden Riorson—her brooding, shadow-wielding love interest. But here’s the kicker: Violet’s hiding a secret so big it could unravel everything.
The plot is a whirlwind of dragon battles, political intrigue, and heart-wrenching choices. Violet’s squad faces a trap set by the venin, led by the sinister Theophanie, who’s holding Mira hostage. Xaden’s shocking decision to channel dark power again leaves Violet reeling, and Andarna’s choice to leave her bond with Violet to reconnect with her dragon heritage is a gut-punch. From chaotic battles where riders like Quinn fall, to a mysterious prophecy about Xaden, the stakes are sky-high. The book ends on a cliffhanger that’ll leave you gasping—Violet wakes up married to Xaden, now the Duchess of Tyrrendor, but with no memory of the events after asking Imogen to wipe her mind.
Yarros’ world-building expands beyond Basgiath, introducing new cultures and dragon lore that make the Empyrean series feel even bigger. With 2.7 million copies sold in its first week, it’s the fastest-selling adult novel in 20 years, and it’s no surprise why—dragons, romance, and betrayal make for an addictive mix.
Review: Why Onyx Storm Is a Must-Read (But Not Perfect)
Okay, let’s get real: Onyx Storm is like hopping on a rollercoaster blindfolded—you’re thrilled, stressed, and maybe a little dizzy. As a fan of Fourth Wing, I dove in expecting more of that spicy, dragon-fueled magic, and Yarros delivers… mostly. The book’s strength is its emotional depth. Violet’s growth from a reluctant cadet to a strategic leader is inspiring, and her bond with Tairn (and even Broccoli, the fan-favorite dragon) steals the show. The romance between Violet and Xaden? Still sizzling, but it’s more mature this time, navigating trust issues and sacrifices that hit hard. The squad dynamics—Ridoc’s humor, Sawyer’s loyalty, and Dain’s redemption arc—are pure gold.
But it’s not all smooth flying. The first half drags with heavy lore and pacing issues, making it tough to keep track of minor characters and their dragons without a recap (a “story so far” would’ve helped!). Some plot twists, like Quinn’s death, feel rushed and lack the emotional punch they deserve. And while the world-building is epic, the complex magical terminology and politics can feel overwhelming, as some critics noted. For USA readers, the vibe is like Game of Thrones meets The Hunger Games with a dash of Twilight’s romantic angst—perfect for fans of high-stakes romantasy but maybe not for those craving “high literature.”
I’d give Onyx Storm a 4/5. It’s a thrilling, emotional ride with unforgettable dragons and a cliffhanger that’ll have you counting days for book four. If you’re new, start with Fourth Wing—jumping in here is like trying to ride Tairn without a saddle. For fans, it’s a solid addition, though Iron Flame’s pacing issues linger. Grab it if you love dragons, drama, and a romance that makes your heart race.