The Empyrean (Book 1)
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros is a fast-paced fantasy story that will transport you to a magical yet brutal world where only the elite become dragon riders.
My Overview
Violet Sorrengail was destined to live a life surrounded by books and history as a Scribe, following in her father’s footsteps. She was looking forward to that life within her comfort zone. Unfortunately, now that Violet’s father is dead, General Sorrengail of Navarre has ordered her to enlist in the Riders Quadrant to become a dragon rider. Violet is weak, but General Sorrengail (her mother) forces her into the Riders Quadrant anyway. If Violet is able to survive the brutal training process, she’ll become one of the elite. At Basgiath War College, Violet ends up assigned to the Fourth Wing. What follows is an unputdownable story.
Does this seem like a book I wouldn’t normally read? Absolutely. I generally stay away from the fantasy genre. However, this book has taken the world by storm, so I just had to try it out for myself! All in all, I’m glad I read this book and got to see what all the hype is about 🐉.
Given that this book has garnered so many five-star reviews, I realize I’m in the minority with four stars. The thing is, I didn’t like the story quite as much as everyone else seems to. Why? The storyline and characters are heavily based on cliches and convenient/forced situations. Also, the “surprising ending” everyone talks about was a let down since I’d figured it out in advance based on how predictable the storyline is. What did surprise me, though, is the amount of violence throughout. Yikes! That was awfully descriptive.
The story does end on a cliffhanger, perfect for the upcoming Iron Flame (Book 2) soon to be released in November 2023. I’m not necessarily feeling compelled to read it. At this time, I’m fine with where the story ended and don’t feel the need to follow the characters along in their future adventures. Keep in mind, though, that even though I don’t generally read books in this genre I still enjoyed the story.
My Recommendation
Overall, Fourth Wing certainly delivered on all the hype. If you haven’t already read this book, you might as well give it a try. Take a trip into the world of dragons, just be prepared for the brutal training and violence involved. I read the Kindle edition for most of the book, and then switched to the audiobook. I recommend either.
Have you read this book? What are your thoughts?
Lindsey @ Lindsey Reads
I’m glad to hear you enjoyed this one! Four stars is still good and I can see how the story was a little cliché and predictable.
Lucy
Thanks! I’m glad I got to see what all the hype was about 😊.
Rachel @Waves of Fiction
I don’t usually read this type of fantasy either, but I loved it. The audio was fantastic. The only reason I gave it 4.5 instead of 5 stars was the sex scenes that were drawn out in my opinion. There weren’t that many so it was a small niggle, but it slowed the plot down. I didn’t see that twist in the end.
Lucy
Glad we both gave this fantasy book a try, and you even liked it more than I did 😃.
Lark
I do like fantasy novels, especially ones with dragons in them, so I’m looking forward to reading this one. But good to know about the cliffhanger ending! Maybe I’ll wait until the second book is out before starting this one.
Lucy
It seems you’ll love this story, so I like your plan to wait until Book 2 is released 😁.