"Onyx Storm" by Rebecca Yarros is the third book in her "Empyrean" series. It was released at the end of January; fans were lined up outside doors waiting to purchase her book. It is full of thrilling, action-packed fantasy involving dragon riders Violet Sorrengail and Xaden Riorson.
This book is about Violet's adventure at Basgiath War College, where she enters her third year. The stakes continue to heighten with the danger of the venin, dark-magic wielders creating menaces for civilians. The narrative explores Violet’s challenges, personal growth, and romantic relationship with Xaden. There are aspects of Navarre politics that generate tension between the dragons and Basgaith. Violet is determined to find a cure for Xaden being a Venin and finding Andarna’s family of irid dragons.
Highs
The central high is Violet's personal growth as she matures into a brave dragon rider. In the last book of "Iron Flame," she lost her mother, Lilith Sorrengail. This loss has shown her a different perspective on life, and her determination to save her world grew more intense. In this book, she faces multiple obstacles, including finding a cure for Xaden. This is an intriguing aspect of the book because their love is unbreakable. Their relationship continues to be a highlight. Consider how Xaden will always protect Violet, even if it is from him. He struggles with controlling his dark magic due to being Venin.
The character development of Xaden is high; he continues to be the most potent rider while also becoming the Duke of Tryenddor. He struggles to accept the fact he is a Venin and could endanger the love of his life. He pushes through this horrible obstacle and controls himself, showing perseverance.
The commentary of the dragons Tairn and Andarna is high because it provides this humorous aspect in a serious situation. Andarna is this beautiful adolescent dragon that tends to disobey Tairn. She is hilarious and is a brave dragon who wants to prove to everyone her power and that she is not delicate. Tairn reminds the fans of a grumpy dad taking care of his daughter. He provides elder insight and comments; their banter is everything.
The world-building in "Onyx Storm" is written beautifully and is easier to comprehend than in "Iron Flame." Yarros grows the complex world of Navarre, introducing new areas and diving more deeply into the legend of dragons and magic. This keeps the fans interested throughout the book and gives them plot twists. The plot twists were done exceptionally; they were intense and can sometimes be emotional.
Lows
There were minimal lows within the book. The main low was the pacing issue; it was slow at times, which can draw the reader away. There were many new characters throughout the book that can make readers feel overwhelmed trying to keep up.
Specific chapters could be confusing at times, but the development of Andarna could be explained more. She is an essential character in the book, and her journey to find her family is intense. A particular character died during this adventure, which was unnecessary in a specific aspect. There is a chapter that creates a heartbreak for fans and can be intense regarding the dragons.
Verdict
"Onyx Storm" is worth the read for those continuing the Empyrean series. It is a thrilling, complex fantasy that keeps the love alive for fans cheering for Xaden and Violet’s relationship.
Rating: 10 out of 10
Mariam Fakhreddine is a film and theater reviewer for The Eastern Echo. She has worked as a news and features reporter for The Echo for two years.
