Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

*** My Review ***

“Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros is a captivating romantasy novel that combines elements of adult fantasy and romance. Set in the intense and cutthroat world of Basgiath War College, the story follows Violet Sorrengail, a bookish young woman forced to become a dragon rider instead of pursuing her desired path as a scribe. With her fragile stature and the burden of her mother’s actions, Violet must navigate the dangerous world of dragon riders while facing enemies and her own inner battles. The book offers a thrilling blend of enemies-to-lovers romance, unique world-building, and high-stakes adventure.

Yarros’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making the story easy to immerse oneself in. The world-building is intriguing, particularly with the inclusion of dragons and the intricate magic system based on the bond between rider and dragon. The author successfully creates a tangible setting and relatable characters, allowing readers to become fully invested in the story. Violet Sorrengail, the protagonist, is a secret badass with a chronic illness, and her journey of survival and self-discovery is inspiring. Readers will cheer for her as she defies expectations and forms meaningful relationships amidst the perilous circumstances.

The main character, Violet, initially took some time for me to fully appreciate, but she quickly grew on me and became one of my favorite protagonists ever. The author’s portrayal of Violet as the chosen one was expertly done, and I eagerly anticipate exploring her relationships with her family, especially her mother, as the series progresses. Alongside Violet, the male lead, Xaden, is everything one could hope for in a bookish hero. Learning about his history, alliances, and unwavering loyalty to his friends added depth to his character and made him truly memorable.

One aspect that stood out to me was the strength of the supporting cast. Characters like Liam and Rhiannon brought tremendous support and depth to the story, while others, like Dain, still hold intriguing mysteries that I look forward to uncovering. Yarros’s writing style is simple yet engaging, effortlessly pulling the reader into the world she has created. The world-building itself is intricate, and while not on the same scale as Tolkien’s works, the author masterfully provides glimpses and explanations that leave readers craving more.

The romance between Violet and Xaden Riorson, the scarred and intense wingleader, is a highlight of the book. The enemies-to-lovers trope is executed brilliantly, with a slow burn that eventually leads to explosive chemistry between the characters. Yarros skillfully navigates their complex emotions, creating a compelling and intense relationship. The dragons in the story are not mere beasts but intelligent creatures that play an active role in the narrative. The author’s portrayal of the bond between riders and dragons is unique and adds depth to the overall plot.

What sets “Fourth Wing” apart and makes it one of the best books of the year is the inclusion of majestic dragons. Yarros treats these creatures as more than mere beasts, imbuing them with intelligence and making them vital to the plot. The magic system centered on the bond between rider and dragon is a stroke of brilliance, adding a unique and captivating element to the story. Additionally, the military college setting, though perilous and unforgiving, adds an exciting layer of stakes and danger, creating an atmosphere that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

The found family dynamic in Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros is heartwarming. Despite the war college’s emphasis on detachment, Violet forges meaningful connections with characters like Rhiannon and Liam, forming a supportive and loyal found family. This aspect adds depth to the story and enhances the emotional resonance. The book also delves into complex themes such as loss, revenge, and the courage to fight against all odds.

While the story may have some predictable elements common to the genre, it remains highly entertaining and engaging throughout. The pacing is generally good, although there are instances where the plot slows down. The book’s strength lies in its immersive storytelling, relatable characters, and the thrilling dynamics between them. And just when you think you have it all figured out, the ending delivers a mind-blowing twist, leaving readers eager for the next installment.

However, readers should be aware that Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros contains various triggers and intense themes. The story is set in a war college for dragon riders, so there are depictions of war, battles, hand-to-hand combat, and perilous situations throughout the book. The author does not shy away from portraying the harsh realities of war, including intense violence, brutal injuries, and death. Additionally, there are instances of poisoning and graphic language. Furthermore, the book includes explicit sexual activities that are shown on the page. It’s important for readers to exercise caution and consider their comfort levels with these triggers before diving into the story.

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros is a must-read for fans of fantasy romance and dragon-centered stories. While it may not be a literary masterpiece or a groundbreaking work, it excels in delivering a captivating and enjoyable reading experience. With its well-developed characters, intricate world-building, and the perfect balance between romance and action, this book has firmly established itself as one of the best fantasy reads of 2023. Prepare to be enthralled by this fiery adventure and the allure of the Fourth Wing.