Review: "The Empyrean #2 Iron Flame" by Rebecca Yarros – A High-Stakes Sequel That Ignites the Series

Rebecca Yarros’ Iron Flame, the second installment in The Empyrean Series, continues the epic journey of Violet Sorrengail and her dragon-riding comrades, delivering a story packed with action, intrigue, and emotional depth. Released on November 7, 2023, this sequel builds on the explosive success of Fourth Wing, further solidifying Yarros’ place as a master of romantasy. With over one million five-star reviews for its predecessor, Iron Flame had sky-high expectations—and it delivers, albeit with a few twists and turns that keep readers on their toes.

A World on the Brink

Iron Flame picks up where Fourth Wing left off, thrusting readers back into the brutal and competitive world of Basgiath War College. Violet Sorrengail, now a second-year cadet, faces even greater challenges as the stakes rise both within the academy and beyond. The protective wards of Navarre are failing, the war against the venin intensifies, and Violet begins to uncover the dark secrets leadership has been hiding. The world-building expands significantly in this installment, delving deeper into the political intrigue and the looming threats that threaten to unravel everything Violet holds dear.

The novel is divided into two parts, originally conceived as separate books but combined into one. This structure allows Yarros to explore both the internal struggles of the characters and the external conflicts of the world. The shift in setting from the academy to the broader war-torn landscape adds a fresh dynamic to the story, though some readers may miss the intense, claustrophobic atmosphere of Basgiath.

Character Development That Shines

Violet Sorrengail remains the heart of the story, and her growth in Iron Flame is nothing short of phenomenal. Faced with life-altering revelations and impossible choices, Violet’s resilience and determination shine through. Her struggles with self-doubt and her evolving relationships with those around her make her a deeply relatable and inspiring protagonist. Yarros also explores Violet’s chronic illness with sensitivity, adding a layer of representation rarely seen in fantasy.

Xaden Riorson, the enigmatic and morally complex wingleader, undergoes significant development as well. His relationship with Violet is tested repeatedly, and the tension between them is both frustrating and electrifying. Their love story is messy, realistic, and deeply compelling, showcasing Yarros’ ability to craft relationships that feel authentic and emotionally resonant.

The dragons, while taking a backseat compared to Fourth Wing, still play a crucial role. Tairn’s unwavering loyalty and Andarna’s transformation into a teenage dragon provide both emotional depth and comedic relief. Sgaeyl’s emotional turmoil at the end of the book sets the stage for further exploration in the next installment.

Themes of Sacrifice, Loyalty, and Betrayal

Iron Flame delves into themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and betrayal, raising the stakes for every character. Violet’s journey is not just about survival but also about understanding the cost of leadership and the weight of secrets. The novel explores the moral gray areas of war and power, forcing characters and readers alike to question what they would do to protect those they love.

A Cliffhanger That Leaves You Breathless

True to Yarros’ style, Iron Flame ends on a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that sets the stage for Onyx Storm. The revelations about the venin, the dragons, and the true nature of Navarre’s leadership ensure that readers will be eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this epic saga.

Why You Should Read Iron Flame

Iron Flame is a worthy sequel that expands on the world and characters introduced in Fourth Wing. While it may not match the breakneck pace of its predecessor, it more than makes up for it with deeper character development, intricate world-building, and emotional depth. Fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses and Throne of Glass will find much to love in this series.

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

If you haven’t already, dive into the world of The Empyrean Series and experience the magic, danger, and romance of Iron Flame. Pre-order the next installment, Onyx Storm, and join the millions of readers who can’t get enough of Rebecca Yarros’ epic storytelling.