Iron Flame #2

Book Review

A New Chapter in the Empyrean Saga

Rebecca Yarros returns with Iron Flame, the highly anticipated sequel to Fourth Wing. As Violet Sorrengail enters her second year at Basgiath War College, the stakes have risen considerably. This installment throws readers back into the thrilling world of dragon riders, magic, and a deepening rebellion. While the first book was fast-paced and packed with breathtaking moments, Iron Flame offers a slower but still tense journey, full of character development and intriguing twists.

This book focuses on Violet’s struggles as she adjusts to her new status as an upperclassman. The once life-threatening physical trials of her first year have evolved into more psychological and emotional battles. Violet’s body may still be weaker than her peers, but she makes up for it with her sharp wit and unbreakable resolve. However, this year she’s facing more than just tough training—she’s grappling with betrayal from the man she loves, Xaden Riorson, and the moral dilemmas that come with her new knowledge of the secrets hidden at Basgiath.

Character Growth at the Heart of It All

Violet remains a compelling protagonist—strong, determined, and deeply relatable. In Iron Flame, she struggles with feelings of failure and insecurity, often second-guessing herself as she makes difficult choices. These struggles only deepen her character, and while some of her decisions may seem questionable, it makes her more human. Her internal conflicts, coupled with the external dangers she faces, shape her growth throughout the book. Readers will appreciate how her resilience shines through, even when she’s at her lowest.

Xaden Riorson, Violet’s love interest, continues to be a mysterious figure. His secrets and personal battles only add complexity to their relationship. While Violet and Xaden share a deep bond, this book emphasizes that love alone is not enough to keep them together. Trust issues and hidden truths cause tension between them, leading to a constant push and pull in their dynamic. Their relationship evolves in a more grounded way in this sequel, with less focus on fiery passion and more on building trust and understanding.

A World Steeped in Magic and Intrigue

One of the highlights of the book is the rich world-building. Yarros deepens the lore of the dragon riders and the magic system in Iron Flame. New characters add complexity to the plot, each with their unique personalities and roles in the brewing conflict. While there’s an undeniable shift in pace compared to Fourth Wing, with more time spent on world-building and information dumping, the story still captivates with its exploration of magical warfare, rebellion, and moral dilemmas.

Of course, the dragons remain the heart of this series. Tairn and Andarna, Violet’s bonded dragons, continue to steal the show with their snarky, protective, and sometimes surprisingly tender moments. Their relationship with Violet is as important as her relationships with the humans around her, and fans of the first book will love the further exploration of their bond.

Emotional Highs and Lows

While Iron Flame is not as action-packed as its predecessor, it still delivers intense emotional moments. From heart-pounding battles to quieter, more introspective scenes, Yarros keeps the reader engaged through emotional stakes. There’s one particular moment involving Violet’s family that will have readers gasping, and the cliffhanger ending will leave you spiraling, eagerly awaiting the next book.

Final Thoughts

Iron Flame builds on the foundation laid by Fourth Wing while exploring deeper emotional territory. It’s a slower burn, but that’s not a flaw—it gives room for more nuanced character development and world-building. However, some readers may feel the info-dumping and repetitive themes bog down the story’s pacing. The romance, while still present, lacks some of the intensity seen in the first book, but the emotional growth of the characters makes up for it.

If you enjoyed Fourth Wing, you’ll find Iron Flame to be a satisfying continuation, though with more focus on the characters’ inner battles than the explosive action scenes that marked the first book. Fans of epic fantasy, dragon lore, and slow-burn romance will find plenty to enjoy here.