Iron Flame is a Fiery Adventure
Iron Flame, the second installment in The Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros, is a blisteringly hot novel that will take readers on an emotional rollercoaster, combining dramatic action with sensuous romance. The novel is a compelling voyage into Violet and Xaden’s universe, two characters whose chemistry ignites the pages and keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.
Iron Flame by Rebecca YarrosSeries: The Empyrean #2
Published: 7. November 2023
Publisher: Piatkus
Pages: 640
Genre: Adventure, Dragons, Erotic-Romance, High Fantasy, Magic, Mystery
Audience: Adult
Shelve: Read 2023
Link to Goodreads
Rating:
She survived her first year at Basgiath War College . . . but the danger is only beginning.
Everyone expected Violet Sorrengail to die during her first year at Basgiath War College, Violet included. But Threshing was only the first impossible test meant to weed out the weak-willed, the unworthy, and the unlucky.
Now the real training begins, and Violet's already wondering how she'll get through. It's not just that it's grueling and maliciously brutal, or even that it's designed to stretch the riders' capacity for pain beyond endurance. It's the new vice commandant, who's made it his personal mission to teach Violet exactly how powerless she is - unless she betrays the man she loves.
Although Violet's body might be weaker and frailer than everyone else's, she still has her wits, and a will of iron. And leadership is forgetting the most important lesson Basgiath has taught her: Dragon riders make their own rules.
But a determination to survive won't be enough this year.
Because Violet knows the real secret hidden for centuries at Basgiath War College - and nothing, not even dragon fire, may be enough to save them in the end.
Buy the Book: Amazon*
Iron Flame ♦ Rebecca Yarros
Opinion
The plot is nothing short of fascinating, mixing suspense, danger, and romance together. Yarros expertly builds a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, yearning for the next surprise in the story. The pacing is excellent, with each chapter exposing fresh dimensions to the characters and the events developing, ensuring that the plot never loses momentum.
Iron Flame’s rich characters, each with their own problems and flaws, are surely one of its highlights. Violet, the main female heroine, injects a sense of realism into the plot. While her tenacity and dedication are noble, there were times when her behavior and decisions irritated me, and I had to roll my eyes. However, it is her flaws that make her accessible and human, ultimately adding to the richness of her character and her age.
The male protagonist, Xaden, is a moody and intriguing man whose still partly unknown past provides an added dimension of mystery to the story. While his persona is unquestionably endearing, there were times when a little more openness towards Violet may have enhanced their bond. Regardless of this tiny quibble, the two’s chemistry is palpable, providing a magnetic pull that keeps readers immersed in their love tale.
Rebecca Yarros‚ writing is nothing short of wonderful, with vivid descriptions that immerse readers in the action. The dialogue is snappy and genuine, which adds to the overall immersive experience. The author’s ability to mix strong action passages with soft, intimate moments is admirable, resulting in a novel that speaks to the reader on numerous levels. The startling cliffhanger conclusion shattered my heart, ruined my soul, and frazzled my nerves.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Iron Flame is a must-read for fans of romance, suspense, and heart-pounding fantastical adventure. Despite my occasional frustrations with Violet’s character and the desire for more openness from Xaden, the overall experience is undeniably five-star worthy. Yarros has delivered a sizzling masterpiece that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
The Empyrean — The Series
| Fourth Wing (#1) | Iron Flame (#2) |
| unknown (#3) | unknown (#4) |
| unknown (#5) |
About Rebecca Yarros
Rebecca Yarros is a hopeless romantic and coffee addict. She is the New York Times bestselling author of over twenty novels, including Fourth Wing, The Last Letter and The Things We Leave Unfinished. She’s also the recipient of the Colorado Romance Writer’s Award of Excellence for Eyes Turned Skyward. Rebecca loves military heroes and has been blissfully married to hers for over twenty years. A mother of six, she is currently surviving the teenage years with all four of her hockey-playing sons.
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