Review: Fourth Wing (The Empyrean #1) by Rebecca Yarros

Rebecca Yarros takes readers on a thrilling and immersive journey into a world where dragons and war collide in Fourth Wing, the first installment of The Empyrean series. From the very beginning, this book grips you with its unique premise and captivating characters.

The protagonist, Violet Sorrengail, is a young woman who defies expectations and faces incredible challenges as she is thrust into the brutal world of a war college for dragon riders. Yarros beautifully explores Violet’s struggles with her physical limitations and her determination to prove herself worthy of bonding with a dragon, despite being considered “fragile” by society. Violet’s resilience and intelligence make her a compelling and relatable character, and you can’t help but root for her throughout the story.

The world-building in Fourth Wing is outstanding. Yarros paints a vivid picture of the Navarre kingdom and its war-torn landscape. The descriptions of the dragon riders’ training and the bond between humans and dragons are rich and immersive, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in this fantastical world. The author’s attention to detail and her ability to create a believable and intricate system of dragon riders and their hierarchy add depth and complexity to the story.

The plot is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns that keep you eagerly turning the pages. From the cutthroat competition among the candidates to the looming secrets and threats within the war college, the tension and suspense never waver. Yarros masterfully balances action-packed sequences with moments of introspection and emotional depth, creating a well-rounded narrative that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

The supporting cast of characters is diverse and memorable, each with their own motivations and secrets. The dynamics between Violet and her fellow cadets, particularly the enigmatic and powerful wingleader Xaden Riorson, add an extra layer of complexity to the story. The relationships, whether they be friendships, rivalries, or romances, are skillfully woven into the plot, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Fourth Wing is a fantastic start to The Empyrean series, showcasing Rebecca Yarros’ talent for storytelling and her ability to create a rich and compelling fantasy world. With its strong protagonist, intricate world-building, and gripping plot, this book is sure to captivate fans of dragon fantasy and action-packed adventures. I eagerly await the next installment in this exciting series.

Summary:

There are only two ways to leave Basgiath War College: either by graduating or dying.

Violet was supposed to have a peaceful life among books in the Scribe Quadrant. However, her mother, who is the commanding general, forces her to join the Riders Quadrants to become a dragon rider. In order to survive, Violet must push herself beyond her limits.

Staying alive would be easier if Violet didn’t have people targeting her. She is seen as “small and weak” and is also the daughter of the woman responsible for the deaths of many cadets’ traitorous parents, including Xaden Riorson, the most powerful and ruthless wing leader. Violet should stay away from him, but there is a strong attraction between them that is destined to cause problems.

With such high stakes, every day could be Violet’s last. So she must learn to do something she was never trained for: fighting.

“I will not die today.” – Violet Sorrengail

WHAT TO EXPECT: ✨ Romance for adults ✨ Enemies who become lovers ✨ Setting in a war college ✨ Dragon riders ✨ Magic ✨ Main character who is an underdog and deals with chronic illness ✨ Male main character who is scarred and an anti-hero ✨ Detailed world-building ✨ Complex politics ✨ Found family theme ✨ High-stakes situations ✨ Instant attraction with a slow-burning relationship ✨ 2 out of 5 🌶️ (2 explicit spicy scenes) ✨ Cliffhanger ending

Favorite Quotes:

“Fascinating. You look all frail and breakable, but you’re really a violent little thing, aren’t you?”

“Are you going to die a scribe? Or live as a rider?”

“You want to know why you’re still alive? Every day I let you live, I get to convince myself that there’s still a part of me that’s a decent person.”

“Not all strength is physical.”

“She should have killed you in the field, but she’s merciful. That’s not a flaw I possess.”

“He cares for you. That’s already hard enough for him.”
“He cares about keeping me alive. There’s a difference.”
“Not for him there isn’t.”

“I am the sky and the power of every storm that has ever been. I am infinite.”

“There’s nowhere in existence you could go that I wouldn’t find you, Violence.”

“Oh, gods.”
“Which one are you calling out for? Because it’s just you and me in this room, Vi, and I don’t share.”

“I’m going to keep you. You’re mine, Violet.”

“None of this is worth it without you.”