Onyx Storm has finally been released, and while I'll need a re-read to really process everything, and link the story with the previous books, here's a first opinion - spoiler free!
I have to be honest—this book left me wanting more, yet gave me so little that I’m not sure I actually do want more. Overall, the story is good, but it doesn’t quite reach the epic feeling of Fourth Wing. The pacing is slower, more in line with the first part of Iron Flame. It’s not a bad read, but it had the potential to be so much more.
The story picks up right where we left off after Iron Flame: Xaden has channeled from the earth, Basgiath is recovering, and everyone is desperate to figure out their next move. Violet is finally stepping into her role as a true leader, even if she’s reluctant to fully take the reins. I also feel like she’s developing a bit of a mean streak—not towards everyone, but definitely towards those who don't share her morals, and I love it! In previous books, she felt a bit too tame (for lack of a better word), but now she’s putting herself out there and not pulling any punches.
What I did feel was missing—perhaps because Rebecca Yarros emphasized it so much in previous books—is the romance drama. There’s no wallowing Xaden, no "I'm only half a man" moments. Maybe that's how the author envisions the characters or how readers might expect to feel, but it’s not really in this book. Xaden is doing his best, and although he tries to pull back at times, it never lasts long. Violet, on the other hand, remains hopeful and unwavering in her belief in a cure and a brighter future. This is a refreshing contrast to the Violet of Iron Flame, who was constantly stuck worrying about the same problems over and over again. In this book, she’s finally growing, and it’s a welcome change.
One of the aspects I really enjoyed was the inclusion of multiple POVs, which I think could be a great addition to future installments. I also appreciated the larger role given to previously minor characters—this added fresh perspectives and depth to the story.
The ending leaves a lot of possible directions for the series to explore, and at this point, I can't wait to see where our heroes go next.
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