Book Review – The Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

The Fourth Wing: A Riveting Fantasy Romance That Soars

The Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros kicks off The Empyrean series with a bang, pulling you into a world where dragons aren’t just a myth, they’re your ticket to survival.

Welcome to Basgiath War College

Picture this: Violet Sorrengail, book lover and aspiring scribe, suddenly finds herself thrown into the brutal world of Basgiath War College. Thanks, Mom. Instead of a quiet life with her nose in ancient texts, she’s now dodging death on a daily basis, thanks to her overbearing general of a mother who insists she become a dragon rider. It’s a classic tale of an underdog in a world where survival is far from guaranteed. Violet’s frail physique and lack of training make her an easy target, but her determination and growth throughout the story are nothing short of inspiring. From the moment she steps into Basgiath, you can’t help but root for her as she defies the odds stacked against her​.

What’s great about Violet is how real she feels. She’s not your typical fearless heroine; she’s complicated and flawed, making mistakes you totally get. She wants to live up to her family’s expectations but also has her own dreams and fears. Watching her navigate the treacherous landscape of Basgiath while trying to prove herself to her mother and surpass her own limitations is what makes this book a page-turner. Her journey is filled with enough twists, turns, and dragon fire to keep you hooked from start to finish.

Family Dynamics and Friendships

The real magic in “The Fourth Wing” isn’t just in the dragon battles and epic challenges; it’s in the relationships that Rebecca Yarros crafts. Violet’s relationship with her mother is a central thread that adds depth to the story. Her mother’s tough love and high expectations push Violet to her limits, but it’s Violet’s determination to prove herself that drives the narrative. Then there’s the dynamic with her sister, who, unlike their mother, offers support and encouragement, creating a nuanced family backdrop that feels genuine and relatable.

And let’s not forget about the friendships Violet forges at Basgiath. Yarros excels at fleshing out side characters, making each one feel integral to the story. These friendships provide much-needed support and moments of levity amidst the intense training and constant danger. It’s these bonds that give Violet the strength to push forward, showing that even in a cutthroat environment, camaraderie can thrive. The characters’ interactions are peppered with humor and heartfelt moments, balancing out the high-stakes action perfectly.

Romance Done Right

Now, let’s talk romance. If you’re into slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers dynamics, then Violet and Xaden’s relationship is going to be your jam. Xaden is the brooding, mysterious type with a past that’s as dark as his mood. The chemistry between them crackles from their first encounter, and Yarros takes her time building their relationship, making every interaction count. This isn’t one of those insta-love scenarios; it’s a well-crafted romance that unfolds naturally and keeps you on the edge of your seat.

What makes their relationship stand out is how grounded it feels. They’re both dealing with their own demons, and their connection grows out of mutual respect and shared struggles. By the time you get to their first real romantic scene, it’s incredibly satisfying because it feels earned. Yarros doesn’t just throw them together; she lets their relationship develop organically, making it one of the highlights of the book.

Plot and World-Building

“The Fourth Wing” isn’t just about characters and relationships, though; it’s got a plot that’s as intense as a dragon’s fire. From the opening scenes at Basgiath War College to the high-stakes battles and political intrigue, the story keeps you hooked. Yarros has created a rich, immersive world that’s easy to get lost in. The pacing is spot-on, with enough action to keep your heart racing and enough quieter moments to let the characters breathe and grow​.

The world-building is detailed without being overwhelming. Yarros gives you just enough to paint a vivid picture of Basgiath and its deadly challenges without bogging you down with unnecessary exposition. Whether it’s the dragon lore or the intricacies of the war college, every element feels well thought out and integral to the story. This balance makes “The Fourth Wing” a compelling read that’s hard to put down.

In short, “The Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros delivers a gripping blend of fantasy, romance, and character-driven storytelling. It’s a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a book that’s both thrilling and deeply emotional. Get ready to be swept away into a world where dragons soar and the stakes are as high as the sky.