romantasy is one of my FAVORITE book genres & Fourth Wing & Iron Flame are PEAK romantasy🥵
both books are set at a war college in the Rider’s Quadrant where cadets are brutally trained to fight and to ride dragons. there’s violence (😉) & spice & tension & politics and it’s so good! definitely one of my favorite romantasy series’ and the author recently announced the third book Onyx Storm is coming out next january!!
Fourth Wing review: 10/10 loved all the characters & they never felt predictable to me. the enemies to lovers was quite possibly the best i’ve ever read. the story/setting felt different than a lot of other books in the romantasy genre and i love it
Iron Flame review: 9.5/10 the frustration of violet having to keep secrets from her friends and xaden keeping secrets from her was REAL. loved every minute of the book & the ending was😵 need book 3 right now!!
... Read moreOkay, so if you're like me and constantly searching for your next epic read, especially in the romantasy genre, you absolutely have to pick up 'Fourth Wing' and 'Iron Flame.' I've seen the hype, and let me tell you, it's 100% deserved. What truly sets this series apart for me? It's the perfect blend of high-stakes fantasy and heart-pounding romance, making it a true 'ROMANTASY PICK' as my friends and I call it.
First off, the 'WAR COLLEGE' setting isn't just a backdrop; it's a character in itself. Imagine a brutal, cutthroat environment where cadets are literally trained to fight to the death and bond with deadly dragons. It’s not your typical cozy fantasy; it’s gritty, intense, and keeps you on the edge of your seat. This relentless pressure cooker atmosphere makes every moment of connection between the characters so much more meaningful. You truly feel the danger and the desperation, which only amplifies the emotional impact of their relationships.
And speaking of relationships, the 'ENEMIES TO LOVERS' trope in 'Fourth Wing' is, hands down, one of the best I’ve ever encountered. It’s not just a quick flick of a switch; it’s a slow burn, filled with delicious tension, witty banter, and genuine animosity that slowly, irrevocably, turns into something profound. The way their dynamic evolves amidst life-threatening challenges and political intrigue? Chef's kiss! You'll be rooting for them, yelling at the book, and probably highlighting every single interaction. The chili peppers on my copy are definitely accurate for the spice level!
Let's not forget the 'DRAGONS!!' They aren't just cool creatures for riding; they are intelligent, fierce, and integral to the plot and world-building. Bonding with a dragon in this world means a deep, telepathic connection, and these majestic beasts have personalities that are just as compelling as the human characters. Their presence elevates the stakes, provides incredible action sequences, and adds a unique layer to the magic system. The five stars I’d give to the dragon portrayal alone are well earned.
What makes 'Fourth Wing' such an addictive 'romantasy' read is how Rebecca Yarros masterfully weaves these elements together. It’s not just a romance with some fantasy elements or a fantasy with a tacked-on romance. It's truly a symbiotic relationship where the plot drives the romance and vice versa. You get epic battles, political conspiracies, incredible world-building, and a romance that will leave you breathless. Every chapter felt like a wild ride, and I devoured both books faster than I thought possible. The community around these books is also fantastic – sharing theories and waiting for the next release together just adds to the whole experience.
The anticipation for the third book, 'Onyx Storm,' is killing me! If you're looking for a series that delivers on action, adventure, and undeniable chemistry, this is it. Trust me, your 'romantasy' heart will thank you.
YESSSSS this book series got me hooked into fantasy genre and I’m living for it!!! I can’t wait for Onyx Storm ❤️