Book Review: "Iron Flame" (The Empyrean, #2) by Rebecca Yarros
If you loved "Fourth Wing", then you’re going to love "Iron Flame" too. The book takes all your favorite elements from "Fourth Wing" and doubles it.
Moody dragons? ✔️
Angsty Vi? ✔️
Intense battles? ✔️
Venin apocalypse? ✔️
A World of Fantasy and Romance
The world grows ever more dangerous in Iron Flame, the heart-pounding sequel to Fourth Wing. Not only does Violet continue to struggle with controlling her powers, but the looming Venin threat she barely overcame in the last book now returns with a vengeance. Both wider battles and inner turmoil rage stronger than ever, the story hurtling forward at breakneck speed. Iron Flame takes the conflict, tension, and intrigue of Fourth Wing to the next level, sure to leave fans clinging to their dragon saddles.
Character Development and Relationships
The dynamics between Violet and Xaden in this book might not resonate with everyone. I found Violet to be somewhat immature, and Xaden's aloofness made it hard for me to understand his motivations. The narrative was primarily from Violet's perspective, with only a single chapter offering insight into Xaden's viewpoint.
A Shift in Narrative Style
The writing style in Iron Flame marked a departure from the concise, action-driven narrative of Fourth Wing. Although the first 200 pages felt a bit slow, the storyline managed to keep me engaged. The final 300 pages, packed with action and a blend of predictable and surprising twists, were more to my liking.
Final Thoughts
Despite the uneven pacing and challenging character dynamics, Iron Flame offered a rich narrative that captivated me as a fan of both fantasy and romance. It's a commendable sequel that broadens the world of the Empyrean series and adds depth to the characters I've grown to know and love.