Rebecca Yarros, is the author behind the Empyrean series with her book "Fourth Wing" becoming extremely popular which makes the next book in the series "Onyx Storm" a highly anticipated release for fans across the globe. Yarros has received a lot of attention with her style of writing and merging different genres to capture readers imagination.
The Empyrean Series' Success
The Empyrean Series became a well known work within its genre. It became most notable for its first novel “Fourth Wing” in 2023. The unique combination of dragons, high stakes romance, fantasy and an emphasis on an action packed story with multiple complexities brought her into the limelight.
Viral Popularity and Recognition
"Fourth Wing" has consistently been listed on the Amazon top seller charts with the popularity created on Tik Tok which helped create the momentum for new fans. Even pre-orders for "Onyx Storm" became very popular and highly ranked creating anticipation before its debut.
"Onyx Storm" Release Details

The third book "Onyx Storm" in the Empyrean Series officially released January 21, with special editions and other media released on that day too for readers to enjoy in a variety of methods. This shows Yarros understanding of engaging all aspects of different reading styles.
Pre-order Discounts and Formats
Pre-orders are available on Amazon with discounts and free content for specific users like Kindle Unlimited. Fans had multiple options that range from audio book to ebooks to deluxe versions showing commitment from the publishers.
Series Themes and Storylines

The books focus on Violet Sorrengail at the dragon rider academy and the development of her special skill sets with her interaction to Xaden Riorson her love interest and various themes and ideas within a high fantasy realm. The romantic relationships combine with complex emotional undertones which attracts many fans to her style. She uses the backdrop of fantasy and adventure to create high tension elements.
Merging Genre Elements
Many have mentioned how her work blends many different genres creating something unique but can also fall into common themes of romance that may be well received. She used a comparison from friends who had summarized it as Harry Potter but with more romance that also shares similarity’s with Twilight. This blended approach appeals to many people and brings forth various styles that capture audiences interest.
Other Books To Read if You Liked Fourth Wing

To give more insight many have offered ideas as to other series readers would enjoy with the popular elements that Fourth Wing has created. Some notable recommendations from Lynne’s Book Corner include books like: "The Serpent and the Wings of Night", "On Wings of Blood", "Fear the Flames", and "Never Keep" to capture the themes of similar concepts. These books often focus on elements such as enemies to lovers, vampires, magic and all with fantasy concepts as main elements.
Anticipation for "Onyx Storm"

"Onyx Storm" continues the storyline as Violet rallies for allies while Xaden faces all new challenges, which may bring more conflict and questions. A great part of it involves her fight against evil. That specific story has continued the interest of so many with this book being one of the most anticipated novels of 2025.
Release Parties and Access Methods
Book stores globally are preparing to celebrate the new release by throwing release events for fans with copies first handed out to these audiences. Regular release was for Kindle audio and hard copies and are for pre orders. These multiple methods allow all a way to get access to all types of formats.
Character Growth in Series
The new content in "Onyx Storm" has also given clues to deeper understanding with more growth. There will be the exploration of a new signet along with her new powers. Also Violet continues her journey with her relationship challenges with others as she grows into a stronger individual. Many anticipate learning about Xaden's journey with the series progression and if he will over come turning into an enemy or be changed from this curse that takes his humanity.
Predictions and What is to Come
Fans are wanting to know what the new powers are and whether or not Xaden can find a way to pull out of the turn to venin as the plot is driven forward. Many are looking to see a progression on how the different relationships play out both new and old.
Controversies and Fan Reception
Though extremely popular, Yarros has faced issues that include appropriation as some characters in her book are said to have drawn from specific heritages and language. In addtion accusations of plagiarism were also leveled against her. There are claims that her turn to romance fantasy was unauthentic however this also showed she had been wanting to produce these types of stories even before the opportunity came to write them. All of the discourse on her public persona shows how passionate those following her work truly are whether positive or negative.
The Author’s Statements
While she had many controversies that have followed through social media she also issued many statements that acknowledge such as her stance on translated versions, language appropriatiation as well as those affected by conflicts throughout the globe. Her intention on creating books that appeal to as many readers and sharing all messages across the board continues her purpose.
Key Takeaways
- Rebecca Yarros has gained massive popularity because of "Fourth Wing".
- The release of Onyx Storm on January 21 had unique pre order options for Kindle, hardcopy or audio along with in person events.
- The series focuses on dragon riding magic with complicated romantic relationships all set within the framework of a high tension world with a deep history.
- Yarros has been under intense public scrutiny but it has still continued to create hype surrounding her and the book.
- Fans have many different perspectives while enjoying elements of the story that appeal to a variety of tastes making her work widely received and unique.