Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros Book Review

Introduction

Onyx Storm is the third installment in Rebecca Yarros’s sensational fantasy series, the Empyrean saga. Following the massive success of Fourth Wing and Iron Flame, this new release continues to push the boundaries of romantasy (romantic fantasy), blending intense magical action, deep emotional stakes, and rich world-building. Yarros has solidified her place in modern fantasy literature, and Onyx Storm is a testament to her growing command of genre storytelling.

Plot Overview

In Onyx Storm, we follow Violet Sorrengail as she continues her perilous journey not just as a dragonrider, but now as a symbol of rebellion and hope. The story picks up shortly after the dramatic events of Iron Flame, with Violet and her allies confronting a new, even more dangerous threat to their realm. The lines between friend and foe blur, and secrets buried deep in magical and political history begin to surface.

As Violet attempts to forge alliances and strengthen her position, she must also grapple with the evolving dynamics of her closest relationships, especially with Xaden, whose own past plays a larger role in this volume. The stakes are higher than ever—not just for survival, but for truth, justice, and the future of their world.

Worldbuilding & Themes

Yarros expands the Empyrean universe in remarkable ways in Onyx Storm. While the first book centered around the training ground of Basgiath War College, this installment broadens the scope to include new lands, magical systems, ancient legacies, and long-forgotten prophecies. The pace is swift, yet the narrative still allows moments of quiet reflection and character growth.

Themes of trust, sacrifice, identity, and power run deeply throughout the novel. Violet, more than ever, is forced to question who she is, who she can rely on, and what she’s truly fighting for. These introspective moments are balanced against sweeping battle scenes, political maneuvering, and shocking twists.

Character Development

Violet has evolved from a hesitant scholar to a powerful warrior, but she’s not immune to doubt or fear. What makes her compelling in this book is her ability to remain vulnerable and reflective, even amid chaos. Xaden, too, becomes more layered and morally complex. His relationship with Violet remains a central emotional axis of the story, offering moments of passion, tension, and growth.

Supporting characters, such as Rhiannon, Ridoc, and Andarna (the baby dragon), also receive more attention, enriching the story’s emotional and strategic stakes. Yarros is particularly skilled at making even secondary characters feel essential to the larger narrative.

Strengths

• Emotional depth: The emotional arcs feel authentic, grounded in real struggles despite the fantastical setting.

• Expansive world: Fans of high fantasy will appreciate the broadened horizons, new magical rules, and lore.

• Pacing and tension: The book moves quickly, balancing romance and action without sacrificing plot integrity.

• Strong female lead: Violet continues to be a deeply relatable and empowering heroine

Weaknesses

• Complexity overload: The magical systems and new factions introduced can feel overwhelming for readers not already deeply invested in the series.

• Romance tone: While many enjoy the steamy, emotionally intense romance, others might find it melodramatic or dominating the narrative at times.

• Cliffhanger ending: True to Yarros’s style, this book ends on a dramatic note that leaves you needing the next installment—some may find that frustrating.

Conclusion

Onyx Storm is an ambitious, immersive, and emotionally resonant novel that rewards longtime readers of the Empyrean series. Rebecca Yarros continues to demonstrate her ability to weave high fantasy with romance in a way that feels both modern and timeless. It’s a book that thrills with action, surprises with twists, and lingers in the heart with its emotional truths.

For fans of epic fantasy with strong female protagonists, dragons, political intrigue, and slow-burn romance, Onyx Storm is an absolute must-read. It’s not just a continuation of a beloved series—it’s a bold escalation that sets the stage for an even more explosive future.