Book Review: Onxy Storm
Book 3 of the Empyrean series.
I started out listening to the audiobook as I waited for my physical copy to arrive. I was not a fan of the standard audiobook. I look forward to the dramatization version. it really helps to keep characters identified when they clearly have a distinguished voice. I give the standard audiobook 3.5/5. due to this.
The book is a solid 4.9. I can't give it a full 5. So much of the book was once again shoving the relationship mistrust down our throats that it took away from the remarkable action going on around. I understand that it was needed to a point, but about midway through the book I was begging for xaden to go venin. I will be doing a second read later on because I am sure I missed things.
the last 10 chapters move so quick that if you are not strapped into your seat, you will fall off your dragon! hang on, it is a great read and I am excited to read the next book!
After diving headfirst into 'Onyx Storm,' Book 3 of Rebecca Yarros' Empyrean series, I found myself with so much more to unpack beyond just the initial review. For fellow readers eager to delve deeper, here are some additional thoughts and insights to consider before (or after!) you brave this dragon-filled epic. One of the most captivating aspects of the Empyrean series, and 'Onyx Storm' is no exception, is its incredibly rich and detailed world-building. Beyond the thrilling battles and political intrigue, Rebecca Yarros crafts a universe where every element, from the majestic dragons and their unique bonds with riders to the ancient lore and intricate magic system, feels tangible. Readers, myself included, are often captivated by the specific nuances of this world, including its unique creatures, powerful artifacts, and the history that shapes its present conflicts. Whether you're curious about the different types of dragons, the intricacies of the wards, or the shadowy threats like the Venin, 'Onyx Storm' continues to expand on these elements, making the world feel even more alive and perilous. This depth is what often draws readers in, leading them to search for more details about specific lore elements that might have caught their attention. Violet's quest, as teased in blurbs and hinted at in the first two books, truly takes center stage here. Her journey is not just about survival; it’s a profound exploration of identity, leadership, and the heavy burdens of power. We see her grappling with incredibly difficult choices, navigating treacherous alliances, and confronting personal losses that test her resolve at every turn. The themes of war, love, loss, grief, and deception are woven tightly into the fabric of her narrative, making her arc incredibly compelling. The relationship dynamics, while sometimes a source of frustration as mentioned in my initial thoughts, are undeniably central to the story’s emotional core. The struggles and mistrust add layers of complexity, forcing characters like Xaden and Violet to confront their deepest fears and insecurities amidst a world teetering on the brink of war. It's this blend of personal struggle and epic conflict that keeps you glued to the pages. The action sequences in 'Onyx Storm' are nothing short of breathtaking. Yarros has a knack for painting vivid pictures of dragon battles and intense skirmishes that will leave you gasping. The pacing, especially towards the latter half of the book, becomes a relentless whirlwind. My earlier comment about the last ten chapters feeling like you'll fall off your dragon if you're not strapped in? Absolutely true. It builds to a fever pitch, delivering twists and turns that will leave you reeling and desperately craving the next installment. For anyone looking for a book that truly delivers on its promise of an epic fantasy adventure, filled with dragons, high stakes, and complex characters, 'Onyx Storm' largely succeeds. It's a journey that challenges its characters and readers alike, forcing us to consider the costs of war, the power of love, and the often-deceptive nature of appearances. Even with its moments of frustration, the sheer scope and emotional impact of this book make it a must-read for fans of the Empyrean series.