Book Review: Fourth Wing: Empyrean, Book 1 by Rebecca Yarros
When I first stumbled upon Fourth Wing, the buzz surrounding Rebecca Yarros’ debut fantasy novel seemed impossible to ignore. It was everywhere—on Bookstagram, BookTok, and even recommended by friends who rarely venture into the fantasy realm. The promise of a dragon-rider war college and an enemies-to-lovers romance piqued my curiosity. Little did I know, I was about to embark on an exhilarating journey filled with gripping twists, fierce friendships, and emotional stakes that had my heart racing.
At the center of this rollercoaster ride is Violet Sorrengail, a character crafted with profound depth—a fierce yet fragile young woman thrust into the brutal world of Basgiath War College. As the daughter of a commanding general, she is expected to excel in an environment where survival is paramount, and failure could mean death. I felt an instant connection with Violet; her struggles to break free from the expectations placed on her, combined with her fierce determination, resonated deeply with me. In a world where dragons don’t bond with “fragile” humans, Violet fights to defy the odds, and her resilience acts as a beacon of hope throughout the narrative.
The writing style is refreshingly engaging, perfectly balancing suspense and levity. Yarros immerses us in vivid world-building, and her knack for dialogue, especially between Violet and Xaden Riorson, is electrifying. There were moments where I found myself laughing out loud at their banter, even amidst the constant tension of their rivalry turning into something more. One standout line that stuck with me was Violet’s declaration: “But I will not run. I wouldn’t be standing here if I’d quit every time something seemed impossible to overcome.” This encapsulates the empowering themes of resilience and courage resonating throughout the book.
The dragon-centric magic system adds a delicious layer, making the interactions between riders and their dragons truly memorable. Tairn, Violet’s dragon, swiftly became a favorite for his witty, sassy personality, proving that the dragons in this world are as multidimensional as the human characters. The climactic “Threshing” scene, where riders bond with dragons, drew me in entirely—it was a thrilling, visceral moment in the story that left me breathless.
What surprised me most was how much I embraced the romance subplot. Violet and Xaden’s relationship evolves through mutual respect and shared struggles, which made their chemistry feel authentic. I found myself rooting for them, even amid the thrilling rivalries and unexpected betrayals. One notable twist toward the end literally left my jaw on the floor, reminding me of how clever and unpredictable Yarros can be with her storytelling.
If you enjoy high-stakes fantasy filled with dragons, romance, and personal growth, then Fourth Wing is a must-read. Yarros’ storytelling has carved a special place in my heart, making it hard to wait for the next installment in this series. It beautifully weaves friendship, love, and sacrifice into a tapestry that’s as enthralling as the world of Basgiath itself.
So grab your copy, buckle in, and prepare for a journey that’s as thrilling as it is heartfelt. You won’t just read this book; you’ll feel every victory, loss, and swoon-worthy moment alongside Violet and the crew. Happy reading!