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carlynnnnne 's review for:
Onyx Storm
by Rebecca Yarros
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I am having a hard time formulating words about this book…I have never had a book hangover quite like this one before lol.
Like the majority of readers, I did find myself very confused during the first part of this book and during the final battle scene (not really a spoiler since all of her books end in final battle lol). I did a re-read of FW and IF in preparation and still couldn’t remember basically anyone that was in the Senarium, on the assembly of Aretia, or in their first year as riders/fliers. The plot is extensive, so it makes sense that we need an abundant amount of characters but it comes to a point where we can truly only know so many. However, I loved that we really got to know each main character so much more deeply in Onyx Storm. Even the changing POVs was a really nice touch. The dialogue and banter was superb to its prequels and I hope the books to follow in the series contain similarities in this aspect.
I loved how the world expanded beyond the continent and we got to really understand some of the history that plays such a large role in the plot a little bit better. That being said, why the heck was the map not updated? Also, the story was SO dense with information at some points that I had to flip back and reread or simply just put the book down to soak in what was being expounded upon. I also didn’t completely enjoy how Yarros tried to make almost every plot point “secretive.” I love a little bit of information being withheld for the sake of advancements of the story; however, Violet being in a state of confusion during every scene was somewhat exhausting. Everyone speaking in riddles is not realistic, even in fantasy. This led to more questions being asked than answered at the close of the book.
As always, Yarros captivated me with her world-building, romance, soul-crushing losses, and comic relief. All I have to say: Broccoli.
I also give praise for the fact that the spice was minimal in this book. Sex is a huge part of relationships and I can understand that, but I’m glad Yarros keeps them at a very “as-needed” basis and does not give into the modern push to incorporate an absurd amount of smut in books. People need to understand the dying art of a well-placed wink and some yearning! Xaden and Violet’s relationship developed beautifully in this book, and I also was very glad that Violet seemed to find her voice during this season.
Overall, I really enjoyed Onyx Storm and can’t wait to see where the rest of the story goes! I definitely have a feeling I will enjoy this book even more when I read it for a second time in the months to come.
Like the majority of readers, I did find myself very confused during the first part of this book and during the final battle scene (not really a spoiler since all of her books end in final battle lol). I did a re-read of FW and IF in preparation and still couldn’t remember basically anyone that was in the Senarium, on the assembly of Aretia, or in their first year as riders/fliers. The plot is extensive, so it makes sense that we need an abundant amount of characters but it comes to a point where we can truly only know so many. However, I loved that we really got to know each main character so much more deeply in Onyx Storm. Even the changing POVs was a really nice touch. The dialogue and banter was superb to its prequels and I hope the books to follow in the series contain similarities in this aspect.
I loved how the world expanded beyond the continent and we got to really understand some of the history that plays such a large role in the plot a little bit better. That being said, why the heck was the map not updated? Also, the story was SO dense with information at some points that I had to flip back and reread or simply just put the book down to soak in what was being expounded upon. I also didn’t completely enjoy how Yarros tried to make almost every plot point “secretive.” I love a little bit of information being withheld for the sake of advancements of the story; however, Violet being in a state of confusion during every scene was somewhat exhausting. Everyone speaking in riddles is not realistic, even in fantasy. This led to more questions being asked than answered at the close of the book.
As always, Yarros captivated me with her world-building, romance, soul-crushing losses, and comic relief. All I have to say: Broccoli.
I also give praise for the fact that the spice was minimal in this book. Sex is a huge part of relationships and I can understand that, but I’m glad Yarros keeps them at a very “as-needed” basis and does not give into the modern push to incorporate an absurd amount of smut in books. People need to understand the dying art of a well-placed wink and some yearning! Xaden and Violet’s relationship developed beautifully in this book, and I also was very glad that Violet seemed to find her voice during this season.
Overall, I really enjoyed Onyx Storm and can’t wait to see where the rest of the story goes! I definitely have a feeling I will enjoy this book even more when I read it for a second time in the months to come.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death, Death, Gore, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Grief, Death of parent, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, War, Injury/Injury detail