A review by jenni_elyse
Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

5.0

After reading FOURTH WING, I needed to read IRON FLAME. Now that I'm done with both and the next book in the series isn't out until January 2025, I'm wondering why I read these kinds of books before the whole series is out. Waiting is going to be torture.

I always worry a bit when it comes to sequels because so many of them suffer from second-book syndrome where the book is just a stepping stone to the finale with no real meat to it. Thankfully, IRON FLAME was just as good as FOURTH WING if not better. There was more adventure, intrigue, political mayhem, warfare, and lots more romance. It was everything I wanted in a romantasy and sequel.

This book was excruciating to read because of the non-stop suspense and action. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time wondering how it was all going to go down. I loved that Yarros foreshadowed the ending, making it not quite as shocking to me as it was to some, but still just as upsetting. Why, Yarros, why?!

I love the characters in this series, not only Violet and Xaden, but their squad as well. I loved the introduction of the new characters, especially the "Umbridge" of this world. Don't get me wrong or anything. I hated that new character something fierce, but I loved to hate them because it takes a good writer to make you feel that kind of emotion. I also loved Violet's dragons. Tairn reminds me of my Daxi-cat who was just as grumpy but still lovable. And, Andarna, oh Andarna. I love her SO much. I loved her "adolescent" attitude, her interactions with Violet and especially Tairn, and her fierce loyalty to Violet despite her youth.

I loved the world Rebecca Yarros has built and I loved it even more in IRON FLAME. I loved earning more about its lore and mythology. Honestly, if I could only read one type of story for the rest of my life, it would be this.

Anyway, just like its predecessor, IRON FLAME has earned a spot as one of my favorite books. I'm so glad my friend let me borrow her books. Now, I'll be on pins and needles waiting for ONYX STORM!