Fourth Wing: 1 (The Empyrean, 1) Hardcover – 2 May 2023

Fourth Wing, the first book in The Empyrean series released on the second of may, but I read it only a few days ago. I’m not sure what went wrong where that this book escaped my notice for so long. Either way, I’m not sure where I heard of this book (probably bookstagram), but I bought the Kindle version immediately *weeps a river of tears that there’s no paperback version available*.(Random anecdotal rant commences)Then (and this is the most heartbreaking part of the story), my best friend read the book before I could and loved it. This is of course fantastic, except it’s not. Why? Well, it’s because I should’ve read it first and suggested it to her and then she should’ve read it and loved it. I blame this all on whatever strange magic has been in the air that kept this book away from my awareness and made me lose the chance for my best friend to tell me how much she loves because I recommended this book to her.(Random anecdotal rant concludes)I don’t think it has ever happened that once I finish a book I immediately want to read it again. Usually when I love a book, I float on a cloud of bliss for a few days before hunkering down to put all my feelings into fairly comprehensible words for a review. I’ve never—as far as I can recall—dove back into the book. But with Fourth Wing that’s exactly what I did. I just dove back into the book and re-read a good portion of it. And then did it again.The writing made the scenes so vivid, I was surprised I was reading and not watching it all play out on a screen. Whatever it is that Yarros did while writing, she certainly added a large dollop of something addictive to her work because the book felt like it was written to suit my senses. There was never a stagger or a stop, just flowing prose, fantastic, witty dialogue, stunning imagery supporting thrilling, heart jolting events. Honestly, all the pages of highlighted content on my Kindle is testament to that. I truly won’t be surprised if this book is picked for a movie/series because of how strong the words read.The world-building is so closely linked to the writing because the author employs a very unique and effective method to explain some of the rules of the world to the readers. If you’re reading my review and then starting Fourth Wing, I’m sure you’ll understand what I mean when the world-building scenes roll by. My only advice would be to take it a little slow (the book is devour-worthy and will force you to consume it in way lesser time than is usual) so that you’re able to truly know the rules, past and happenings of the world. It also helps if you’re buddy reading; you can help fill gaps in understanding, if there are any, with each other. *stares at my traitor best friend who didn’t buddy read with me*.Imagine the fastest book you’ve ever read, Fourth Wing is 10X that. The narrative being so conducive to the pace only adds to the way the book reads. The book is just event after event after event racing against time without any pauses/lags or inconsistencies that I could feel/find. When a book reads this way, without a stumble or a gap, to me that usually means the book has been planned down to the last letter. I’m 100% sure that Yarros has this all played out in her head, laughing at us as she types away on her keyboard. There’s no other way that this series is a five book series if she doesn’t know exactly what she’s doing.The characters are truly very many and it might be quite impossible to keep track of everyone all the time. That being said, the people that you need to know you will because their personalities are clear and constructed. I’m aware that reading a name on page and not knowing who that even is sometimes doesn’t feel great, so if you do feel that in this book I would say ignore it, mostly because if you don’t know them they’re probably not important. Think of them as NPCs. *feels proud of her computer game reference*Being in Violet’s mind was a true pleasure. The girl is whip smart, funny, honourable and filled with all the complexities and contradictions you’d enjoy in a FMC. I loved how the author stayed true to Violet’s age, adding so much strength and courage not just in her actions regarding her path but also her emotions. She was so brave and I was so proud. It added to the realness of the story when Violet had to coach herself constantly to be brave, to keep going to just stay.Xaden reminds me of the song line “hit you like a shotgun shot to the heart” because that’s how it feels from the moment he enters scene. He’s a presence in the book you can’t see past and he certainly is here to steal your heart. He was an intense and complex character to understand until suddenly you do and all the pieces come together. He and Violet truly have my heart and I can’t wait for the mental and emotional wreckage this series is going to cause in me.The disability rep in this book was a very very important part of it. I personally felt I would've loved to see it be spoken about more. Perhaps the author intends to delve deeper into it more in the second book/in the rest of the series, we’ll have to wait and see.Five stars! Happy reading! Please do check trigger warnings! The book can be a heavy and intense read for anyone, so please go in warned that there’s violence, murder, killing, death, gore, graphic content, death of a loved one (to name a few).(Also, update on the betrayal anecdote)My best friend totally re-read the whole book and pretended I recommended it to her and sent me a billion messages reacting like she was reading it the first time. I am appeased, she has been forgiven. Also, I should probably mention that she asked me to start with her but I couldn’t because well I had another book to finish and review. The point here is however, that she didn’t wait for me. Just wanted to make that clear.

In Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, Violet Sorrengail is thrust into the perilous world of dragon riders, where survival is uncertain, and every choice could be her last. The story is a gripping dance of danger, resilience, and the bonds forged in fire.Xaden Riorson emerges as one of the most compelling characters—a fierce and brooding force who keeps you guessing. His tumultuous relationship with Violet is layered with mistrust, tension, and undeniable chemistry. As their paths intertwine, their dynamic evolves into a powerful blend of vulnerability and strength, enriching the story's emotional depth.Yarros creates a vivid, brutal world filled with majestic dragons and sharp twists. The bond between riders and dragons steals the show, but the evolving connection between Xaden and Violet adds a unique spark, making this a thrilling and heartfelt read.Fasten your saddle—you’re in for a ride you won’t forget!

Well, Rhysand is safe that’s for sure! And so are my other fav fictional boyfriends. I just had to pick this up as it was all over booksta and also I could not ignore the hype around Xaden, overshadowing Rhysand. I mean how could I? This book also stirred up such a strong yearning for Manon and her wyvern - Abraxos ❤. Now I just have to reread Throne of Glass series!Violet has spent her entire existence preparing for a future within the scribe quadrant, a perfect place for her because of her love for books &history. However, her mother, who also happens to be the commanding general, has issued an order that shatters Violet's dreams. She is now compelled to enter Basgiath War College and undergo training to become a dragon rider. The challenge lies in the fact that dragons only bond with individuals who possess great physical strength, something that Violet, with her petite and delicate frame, lacks. To make matters worse, Xaden Riorson, the most formidable and ruthless wing leader in the Riders Quadrant, harbors a deep-rooted grudge against Violet solely due to her mother's actions and he is determined to bring her down.Violet possesses a remarkable blend of intelligence, cunning, and compassion. She compensates for her physical limitations with razor-sharp wit & clever intellect. In a world where everyone seems to have ulterior motives, she fights against all odds. I couldn't help but adore her. Xaden... is swoon-worthy, to sum it up in one word! The push and pull between his resistance to his feelings for Violet and his undeniable desire for her was captivating. I just wish there was more of him. And how can I not talk about the awe-inspiring dragons, Tairn and Andarna? No wonder dragons are my favorite mythical creatures. They are magnificent! This story also boasts a remarkable cast of characters like Liam, Rhiannon, Mira, and many others. Each one left a lasting impression, and I cherished them all.This book truly has a captivating plot, immersive world-building, and thrilling action. However, my main issue was around the sudden shift in their feelings. It felt somewhat jarring when one moment they were supposed to hate each other & the next there are feelings involved😳. There was no build-up to romance at all. Additionally, I found myself yearning for a dual POV, or even multiple, considering so many intriguing characters in the story. Relying solely on one perspective became somewhat monotonous and limiting. Further, while the plot was engrossing, the final revelations lacked the element of surprise, as they felt rather predictable. Nonetheless, it did not take away the fun from the story.An action-packed and captivating read. Absolutely recommend.

I can't stop thinking about this book! The writing is beautifully descriptive, yet never feels overdone. What really stands out are the characters—they feel so real and multidimensional. Their growth throughout the story is both organic and deeply emotional. It’s rare to come across such well-rounded characters in fiction, and this author has truly nailed it. A perfect blend of strong writing and unforgettable personalities