Did Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros Meet Expectations?

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Rebecca Yarros returns with Onyx Storm, the next installment in the Empyrean series, bringing readers back into a world of dragons, danger, and high-stakes romance. I read this series in just a week and a half and finished the first two books just in time for the Onyx Storm's release. The third book in the Empyrean series kept so engaged, I managed to finish it in just a day and a half. Once again, Rebecca Yarros delivered a gripping story with packed with intrigue, action, and romance—though not without a few missteps.

While most of the pacing and writing is still improved from Fourth Wing, as with Iron Flame, the rushed final act and a few writing quirks held it back slightly. Here’s my breakdown of Onyx Storm and why it still deserves a strong 4 out of 5 overall - with NO SPOILERS (as of Iron Flame):

Characters - 5/5

Once again, Yarros shines in character development. Violet’s growth continues and her internal struggles make her all the more relatable. Xaden remains an enigmatic, layered character. What I loved about this third book though, is the strength of the supporting cast. The secondary characters each have their own motivations, strengths, and heartbreaking moments. Yarros gives us more time with some of the side characters, which added emotional depth, making the world feel richer and more lived-in. It also

World Building - 5/5

Yarros expands the world of Navarre even further in Onyx Storm, introducing new locations, history, and magic elements. The deeper exploration of the continent and intricacies of dragon bonds and other aspects of the magic system keeps the lore fresh and interesting. The world continues to feel vast, dangerous, and beautifully crafted.

Pacing - 4/5

For the first 75% of the book, the pacing is nearly perfect. Yarros balances action, character development, and world-building in a way that keeps you engaged without feeling overwhelmed. However, the last quarter of the book moves way. too. fast. Many key events feel rushed. Things wrap up too quickly, not allowing for the emotional weight and depth that the earlier chapters provided. This is also a stark contrast to the previous books, where the endings were fast-paced but impactful. While the last few chapters of Onyx Storm created and maintained tension, a bit more breathing room would have made the conclusion more satisfying.

Romance & Spice - 5/5

The romance in Onyx Storm continues to be a strong aspect. The tension, the high emotional stakes, and the well-paced spice all contribute to a romance that feels deliberate and earned. Violet and Xaden’s dynamic is filled with trust, conflict, and undeniable chemistry. Their relationship deepens in meaningful ways, and Yarros doesn’t shy away from the emotional and physical intensity that makes their bond so compelling. There are a few steamy scenes and one very steamy (you know the one, but Yarros is able to sprinkle them through the story in a tasteful manner.

Writing - 4/5

The writing in Onyx Storm is a step up from Fourth Wing, just as Iron Flame had been. Both feeling more refined and immersive. The overly modern phrasing that occasionally disrupted the tone in the first book is less present here, making the dialogue and narration feel more fitting for the world. However, there are still moments—such as Xaden’s overused lines (I.e., well the fuck aware)—that annoyed me. While these are minor nitpicks, they stood out and sometimes affected my reading experience.

Overall Rating - 4/5

Onyx Storm was a welcome continuation of the Empyrean series. I wish I could have savoured the read, but I had to get through it and get some answers. While the pacing stumbles in the final act and a few writing choices feel repetitive, the story remained thoroughly engaging.

Having to wait a year or more for the next book in this series makes me feel... all kinds of emotions. However, I will be one of the first to pre-order Book 4 when able.