Romance
Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros – Onyx Storm review
Jun
A Storm Worth Chasing
The Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros continues to captivate fantasy romance readers worldwide, and Onyx Storm review—the third installment—is no exception. Released in early 2025, the novel has already become a publishing phenomenon, smashing sales records and trending across platforms like TikTok, Goodreads, and Amazon.
If you’re wondering whether Onyx Storm lives up to the hype, this spoiler-free review breaks down what works, what might not, and why it’s dominating bookish conversations.
Quick Synopsis (No Spoilers)
Following the emotionally devastating events of Iron Flame, Onyx Storm throws readers deeper into the chaos of the Basgiath War College and its crumbling political landscape. Violet Sorrengail must grapple with grief, rebellion, and revelations that shake her understanding of who the real enemy is.
More dragons, higher stakes, and soul-searing romantic tension keep readers hooked from the first page to the final cliffhanger.
What Makes Onyx Storm review a Must-Read
1. World-Building That Expands
Yarros expands the Empyrean universe, introducing new territories, magical mechanics, and complex alliances. The lore around dragons, wards, and relics is rich without being overwhelming.
2. Deep Character Growth
Violet is more than just a chosen one. She’s wounded, brave, and constantly evolving. Supporting characters like Xaden, Rhiannon, and Andarna also get meaningful arcs.
3. Romance with Real Stakes
The romantic tension between Violet and Xaden simmers with both passion and pain. Their relationship is messy, mature, and magnetic—exactly what romantasy readers crave.
4. Relatable Mental Health Themes
Yarros deserves praise for her nuanced portrayal of trauma, PTSD, and the emotional toll of war. These elements add realism and depth to the fantasy narrative.
What Might Not Work for Everyone
- Lengthy exposition: At over 500 pages, some sections feel padded with internal monologue and slower pacing.
- Requires prior reading: New readers should start with Fourth Wing to fully understand the stakes and character dynamics.
- Cliffhanger alert: Be prepared for an ending that demands the next book.
read more: Edinburgh International Book Festival 2025: A Global Literary Celebration of “Repair”
Reader Reactions & Social Buzz
- ★★★★★ “Better than Fourth Wing—and that’s saying something.”
- 🔥 Trending across #BookTok and #Bookstagram with millions of views
- 💬 Featured in Goodreads’ Most Anticipated Books of 2025
Final Verdict
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Onyx Storm is everything a romantasy fan could hope for: dragons, danger, deep love, and dazzling magic. Rebecca Yarros has elevated her storytelling with each book in the Empyrean series, and this installment proves she’s a master of both fantasy and emotion.
Whether you’re a die-hard Violet Sorrengail fan or just diving into romantasy, Onyx Storm is a must-read for 2025.
Where to Buy
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