I’m Hooked

Book Review: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (Empyrean Series)

When I posted on TikTok that I was finally reading Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, the response was overwhelming everyone told me I was in for a ride. And they were absolutely right. The moment I finished, I was hooked. I haven’t felt this level of excitement since the Harry Potter books, and now I completely understand why this novel has taken the book world by storm. The hype? Absolutely justified.

I’ve always been the kind of reader who loves books that transport me out of reality and into a whole new world. Maybe it’s not the healthiest habit to escape reality so much, but as I’ve mentioned in previous posts, sometimes getting lost in a book can make life feel a little more bearable especially in times like these. Fourth Wing did exactly that. It swept me away into the war-torn, dragon-filled kingdom of Navarre, where danger lurks at every turn.

At the heart of the story is Violet Sorrengail, a young woman forced into the brutal world of dragon riders by her own mother, General Lilith Sorrengail, the commanding officer at Basgiath War College. Unlike her peers, Violet isn’t physically strong, and she has to fight harder than anyone just to survive. She must prove herself, bond with a dragon, and endure the deadly trials of her first year—all while navigating the ever-present threat of war.

Yarros’ writing is phenomenal. The pacing, the tension, and the emotional depth kept me turning pages late into the night. I especially appreciated the long chapters because they left me craving more. Initially, I regretted waiting so long to start the Empyrean Series, but now I’m grateful I get to dive straight into the next two books without the agonizing wait.

Fantasy, magic, and romance are my go-to genres, and Fourth Wing has officially earned a spot on my list of top reads. Yarros’ attention to detail and world-building is incredible, making me feel like I was right there alongside Violet facing danger, forging bonds, and experiencing every high and low. Be warned: this book doesn’t shy away from themes of death, military-style combat, and high-stakes action. Emotionally, it put me through the wringer I cried, I laughed, I blushed, and at times, I just sat there in shock.

If you’re a fan of the Divergent series, you’ll likely see similarities, especially between Violet and Beatrice Prior. Both are underestimated, seen as the weakest among their ranks, yet they rise to become some of the most formidable forces imaginable. But let’s be real there’s one character we all fell for: Xaden Riorson, aka Shadow Daddy. That man is a dream, and I’m completely obsessed. But he’s just one of the many unforgettable characters in this book, and trust me you need to experience them for yourself.

Now, I should pace myself with this series, but let’s be honest I’m too far gone. I plan to devour the next two books, and when I’m done? I just might go back and reread them. The thought of waiting for the fourth book is already unbearable.

What a ride!